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With Permission / Courtesy of: City and County of Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office

ALA MOANA - KAKA‘AKO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 11

DRAFT INITIAL CONVENING MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD

TUESDAY, JULY 22, 2025 at 6:00 P.M.

MAKIKI CHRISTIAN CHURCH, 829 PENSACOLA STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96814

AND VIA WEBEX

Video Recording of Meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Bf_CV_Ea9A

Google Drive Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1JHxLyEI1wm7cUgm9ayIl2Q6OLWSbPBCV

1. CALL TO ORDER -- [0:00:17]: Chair Kathleen Lee called the Ala Moana-Kakaʻako Neighborhood Board No. 11 meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Quorum was established with six (6) members present. Note: This 11-member Board requires six (6) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Dyson Chee, Lori Farinas, Quinn Hashimoto, Edward Hernandez, Kaili Jorg (Morala), Kathleen Lee, Sheri Rand, Jeanne Rice, and Dale Vanderbrink.

Board Member(s) Absent: Rodney Chang.

Guests: Captain Casey Ferreira (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Aaron Ostachuk (Honolulu Police Department); Ben Sullivan (Mayor Blangiardi); Harry Cho (Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART); Robin Henski (Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam); Sophia Anderson (Councilmember Nishimoto); Senator Moriwaki and Joseph Kopshy (Senator District 12); Representative Ikaika Olds (House District 23); Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (House District 25); Ashton Stallings (Governor Josh Green); Francine Murray (HCDA); Bishop Reyn Tsuru and Garrett N. (Shingon Mission of Hawaiʻi); Ronald Higa (Liliha Neighborhood Board No. 14); James Gieschen (Sugar Sugar Hawaiʻi); Lynn Mariano, Alex Beatty, Myoung Oh, William M., Kimo, Ian M. Washburn, Michele Opitek, Jayden Hakunti (Residents); and Camilia Epa Gomes (Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were 22 total participants.

Roll Call Attendance -- [0:00:33]: Chair Lee called for a roll call, which was conducted by Neighborhood Assistant Camilia Epa Gomes.

2. ELECTION OF OFFICERS -- [0:01:17]

Election of Officers -- Chair [0:01:35]: [0:01:45] -- Farinas nominated Kathleen Lee for Chair. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Kathleen Lee was elected Chair; 9-0-0 (Lee: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [0:02:46].

Election of Officers -- 1st Vice Chair -- [0:02:50]: [0:03:08] -- Rand nominated Jeanne Rice for 1st Vice Chair. [0:03:21] -- Rice nominated Dale Vanderbrink for 1st Vice Chair. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Jeanne Rice was elected 1st Vice Chair; 6-2-0 (Rice: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Rand, Rice, Lee; Vanderbrink: Hernandez, Vanderbrink; Abstain: Jorg (Morala)) -- [0:05:00].

Election of Officers -- 2nd Vice Chair -- [0:05:05]: [0:05:11] -- Farinas nominated Dale Vanderbrink for 2nd Vice Chair. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Dale Vanderbrink was elected 2nd Vice Chair; 9-0-0 (Vanderbrink: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [0:05:50].

Election of Officers -- Secretary [0:06:00]: [0:06:11] -- Rice nominated Lori Farinas for Secretary. [0:07:11] Farinas nominated Kaili Jorg (Morala) for secretary. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Kaili Jorg (Morala) was elected secretary; 9-0-0 (Jorg (Morala): Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [0:08:21].

Election of Officers -- Treasurer -- [0:08:27]: [0:08:34] -- Chee nominated Lori Farinas for Treasurer. Hearing no other nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. Kathleen Lee was elected Chair; 9-0-0 (Lee: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [0:09:18].

3. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS -- [0:09:30]

Honolulu Fire Department -- [0:09:42]: Captain Casey Ferreira provided the July 2025 statistics: one structure fire, one wildland/brush fire, twelve activated fire alarms, 160 medical responses, four pedestrian accidents involving motor vehicles, six motor vehicle collisions, and one hazardous materials incident. Captain Ferreira also delivered a fire safety tip regarding wildland fire prevention.

• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K_jibHZ3lV5EREHORKxWFK1kg3GZavAX/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [0:11:17]

• Member Vanderbrink asked about the classification of the Sheridan Park playground fire. Captain Ferreira explained that he was unsure of the final classification but suggested checking the HFD website for more information, noting that fires are sometimes initially classified as rubbish fires before being reclassified.

• Member Farinas asked about the process for reporting non-compliant sprinkler or alarm systems. Captain Ferreira recommended contacting the HFD website at hfdnhb@honolulu.gov, which serves as a liaison between the community and the Fire Prevention Bureau.

• Member Chee asked about legal requirements for fire extinguishers in businesses and schools. Captain Ferreira explained that depending on occupancy, there must be a maximum 75-foot travel distance between fire extinguishers, and they must be certified and serviced annually.

• Ala Moana resident, Ian Washburn asked about inspections at the YMCA Central, particularly regarding ventilation in recreational rooms, fire lane blockages, and other safety concerns. Captain Ferreira explained that building management is responsible for maintaining fire safety equipment, and HFD's Fire Prevention Bureau conducts inspections to identify non-compliance issues. He offered to provide contact information for the Public Information Officer to address specific concerns.

Honolulu Police Department -- [0:19:32]: Sergeant Aaron Ostachuk provided the monthly crime statistics for June 2025 compared to May 2025: 10 motor vehicle thefts (down from 18); three burglaries (down from four); 75 thefts (down from 81); 17 unauthorized entries to motor vehicles (unchanged); 12 assaults (down from 19); two sexual assaults (unchanged); and 20 graffiti incidents (doubled from last year). Sergeant Ostachuk also encouraged defensive driving practices and noted that traffic fatalities had doubled compared to the previous year.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [0:22:24]

• Member Rice thanked HPD for addressing houseless encampments near Fisher Hawaii and reported open dumpsters at ABC Food Distribution Center on Ilaniwai Street that were attracting people who were retrieving expired food and creating safety concerns. Sergeant Ostachuk confirmed they had cleared tents in the area but was unaware of the dumpster issue. He noted challenges in getting cooperation from ABC Store for trespass enforcement on private property.

• Member Vanderbrink asked about increased police presence around Don Quijote. Sergeant Ostachuk explained that the area experiences high theft rates from Don Quijote, Ala Moana Mall, and Walmart, resulting in frequent foot pursuits. He added that summer typically brings increased shoplifting incidents.

• Member Vanderbrink also inquired about addressing the increase in traffic fatalities, particularly around bars and clubs. Sergeant Ostachuk explained that police need probable cause to stop drivers and cannot wait outside establishments as it could constitute entrapment. He noted that most fatalities occur on freeways or in country areas rather than in urban Honolulu.

• Ala Moana resident, Ian Washburn asked about HPD's ability to address food trucks blocking the fire lane at the YMCA Central. Sergeant Ostachuk explained that HPD does not enforce parking violations on private property and would need to work with HFD for fire code violations.

• Ronald Higa asked if it is legal for e-bikes to have leg rests to allow them to carry a passenger and noted that he saw a rider carrying a passenger on an e-bike. Member Hernandez provided a response explaining that if the bike has pegs, it is not a bicycle and to be classified as a bicycle, it must have operable pedals.

3. PRESENTATIONS -- [0:31:00]

Ala Moana Neighborhood Historical Association -- [0:31:10]: Bishop Reyn Yorio Tsuru from the Shingon Mission of Hawaii presented on the newly forming Ala Moana Neighborhood Historical Association. The association aims to bring together residents and commercial interests in the area to foster community pride and engagement. Bishop Tsuru announced their first meeting would be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at the Shingon Mission of Hawaii. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and preserving the area's history, noting that his building is the last standing structure from the early 1900s in the neighborhood.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [0:35:24]

• Member Rice thanked Bishop Tsuru for organizing the association and suggested the neighborhood board have a table at the event to share information about the board's role and how residents can get involved.

• Member Vanderbrink expressed support for increased community involvement and appreciation for the historical significance of the Shingon Mission.

• Member Farinas asked about the upcoming Bon Dance events. Bishop Tsuru explained that this year's Bon Dance would be special, with events on August 6 and 9 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He noted that a new Bon Dance for Nagasaki prefecture would be introduced.

• Chair Lee asked if there is a website that the public can see upcoming events. Bishop Tsuru shared the public can visit https://www.shingonshuhawaii.com/ to see their event calendar and also see a tab for the Ala Neighborhood Historical Association.

Prosecutorial Neglect & Community Safety Concerns [0:39:42]: James Gieschen, President of Sugar Sugar Hawaii, presented on issues with the criminal justice system, particularly focusing on the prosecutor's office's "call again" policy implemented in January 2023, which no longer accepts thousands of misdemeanors and petty misdemeanor cases. Mr. Gieschen outlined the challenges in reporting crimes, the lack of follow-through in the system, and proposed solutions including ending the "call again" policy, increasing HPD enforcement, and implementing a public education campaign on crime reporting.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [0:52:20]

• Member Chee asked if Mr. Gieschen had spoken with elected officials about these issues. Mr. Gieschen confirmed he had contacted over 100 officials, with approximately 10% responding, primarily from the Big Island. He noted that the prosecutor's office has not been responsive.

• Member Vanderbrink mentioned contributing factors to the issues, including court reporter shortages, pension cuts for judges, and prosecutor shortages. He suggested inviting a representative from the prosecutor's office to address these concerns.

• Member Hernandez asked about other organizations Mr. Gieschen was working with. Mr. Gieschen explained that they had created an informal network of businesses that function like a neighborhood watch, but there was no formal coalition structure beyond his organization.

• Ala Moana resident, Lynn Mariano suggested working with the action committee, consumer affairs committee, and small businesses to identify concerns and develop legislative solutions. Mr. Gieschen mentioned Sentor Moriwaki suggested that he work on developing legislation and that he gets into contact with the Waikiki Improvement District to collaborate on something to bring to the table to introduce to legislatures.

• Member Vanderbrink invited Mr. Gieschen to the Action Committee meetings which takes place on the second Thursdays of every month to share his ideas. Mr. Gieschen thanked him and also noted that there are also little things he would like to address while they work on developing legislation.

• Member Rice shared that she understands Mr. Gieschenʻs frustration and also experienced the same issue of theft that occured in her small business. She suggested to Mr. Gieschen to reach out to Tina Yamaki who is the President of the Retail Merchants of Hawaii if he hasn't already.

4. BOARD BUSINESS -- [1:01:26]

Meeting Date, Time, Location, and Format -- [1:01:32]: The board voted to retain their previous meeting schedule of the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki Christian Church with a virtual option via WebEx. Hearing no objections, the motion was ADOPTED by unanimous consent; 9-0-0 (Aye: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [1:03:06].

Proposed Board Recess Date/s -- [1:03:07]: Member Hernandez initially suggested recessing for the November meeting (before Thanksgiving) but withdrew the suggestion after discussion about the length of time between meetings. The board voted to recess for the December 23, 2025 meeting. Hearing no objections, the motion was ADOPTED by unanimous consent; 9-0-0 (Aye: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [1:08:49]

Adoption of Oral Testimony Rules -- [1:08:50]: Chair Lee reminded the board of their practice of keeping comments relevant to the discussion and under three minutes, typically addressing the chair but allowing for a hybrid approach that includes addressing community members directly. She emphasized minimizing back-and-forth questions to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to speak. No formal vote was taken as this was a reminder of existing practices.

Formation of Committees -- [1:09:56]: Member Vanderbrink MOVED and Member Rice seconded to continue the Action Committee, which meets on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the smaller room at Makiki Christian Church. Further discussion followed. Hearing no objections, the motion was ADOPTED by unanimous consent; 9-0-0 (Aye: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [1:12:00].

Action Committee Officers -- [1:12:15]: [1:12:45] Member Farinas MOVED AND Member Chee SECONDED to retain Member Rice as Chair and Member Vanderbrink as Vice Chair of the Action Committee, the motion was ADOPTED by unanimous consent; 9-0-0 (Aye: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [1:13:12].

NB11 Representation on Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee -- [1:13:29]: Member Hernandez explained that the OahuMPO Citizens Advisory Committee was considering removing Neighborhood Board 11 due to lack of attendance but had extended the deadline for participation. After discussion about the value and challenges of representation on this committee, Member Rice volunteered to attend the next few meetings to evaluate its usefulness. The meetings are held at 2:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the OahuMPO office on Richards Street, with a virtual option available.

Energy Security & Waste Reduction Draft Plan -- [1:32:16]: Member Hernandez informed the board about the Hawaii Department of Transportation's Energy Security & Waste Reduction Plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the transportation sector. He encouraged board members to review the plan and provide comments by the August 31, 2025 deadline.

• Website and Online Form: https://highways.hidot.hawaii.gov/stories/s/h9gp-xxmt

Dogs in Parks -- [1:35:24]: Chair Lee noted that the City Department of Parks and Recreation had requested feedback on dogs in parks. Member Rice reported that a survey was being conducted through July 31, 2025, after which results would be compiled and shared with Director Thielen. She noted that subdistrict 3 has a high dog population with residents seeking more dog park options.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [1:37:20]

• Ala Moana resident, Alex Beatty mentioned that when Ala Moana Beach Park was renovated, the neighborhood board had opposed adding a dog park, which was reflected in the master plan.

• Member Vanderbrink added that Director Thielen had excluded Ala Moana Beach Park from the current discussion to be addressed separately later.

NB11 Presence at Farmlovers Kakaʻako Farmer's Market -- [1:38:35]: Chair Lee reported that the Farmlovers Kakaʻako Farmers Market was willing to provide a tent for the neighborhood board, requiring about a week's notice and wanted to ask for the Board feedback. Member Vanderbrink volunteered to staff the booth, which would require setup at 6:45 a.m. Chair Lee mentioned she would provide informational materials about the neighborhood board. Member Rice noted ongoing discussions with Sam's Club about a similar presence there, and Member Farinas volunteered to staff the Blaisdell Farmers Market night market.

Approval of the Tuesday, June 24, 2025 Meeting Minutes -- [1:41:58] [1:42:17] -- Farinas MOVED and Hernandez SECONDED approval of the June 22, 2025 meeting minutes. Hearing no objections, the motion was ADOPTED; 9-0-0 (Aye: Chee, Farinas, Hashimoto, Hernandez, Jorg (Morala), Rand, Rice, Vanderbrink, Lee; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [1:42:25].

Attendance at other meetings -- [1:42:26]: No reports at this time.

6. SUBDISTRICT REPORTS -- [1:42:40]

Howard Hughes Development Update -- Member Rice (Subdistrict 3) -- [1:42:45]: Member Rice reported that Howard Hughes subsidiary had applied for a $2.9 million permit to demolish the Ward Center retail complex to make way for two luxury condominiums. While there is no timeline yet, the 25 retailers at the shopping center will eventually be displaced, though some new retailers have moved in recently. Member Rice also shared a community concern from NextDoor about Sheridan Park losing all parking starting July 28, 2025, due to a Department of Parks and Recreation decision aimed at preventing arson. The community member questioned the rationale, noting the park is always in use and arson issues are related to houselessness rather than lack of use.

Subdistrict 3 -- Member Hernandez [1:45:05]: Member Hernandez highlighted the new pedestrian bridge over Ala Moana Boulevard that opened in June, describing it as a beautiful place to walk or bike with unique views of Kewalo Basin. He encouraged everyone to visit.

Subdistrict 3 -- Member Vanderbrink [1:46:00]: Member Vanderbrink mentioned his interest in having the board participate in the Pride parade in late October. He suggested adding this to the next meeting's agenda for a vote and asked if the board could join the city or mayor's office contingent rather than organizing separately.

Subdistrict 4 -- Member Farinas [1:47:40]: Member Farinas announced several community events: 1) Hawaii Health Harm Reduction organization monthly free food distribution at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at Salt Kakaʻako; 2) Creative Mornings event on Saturday, July 26, 2025 featuring Meli James, co-founder of Mana Up; and 3) John A. Burns School of Medicine's community walk event on Monday, July 28, 2025 with medical students, followed by a popup food market.

7. RESIDENTS' AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS -- [1:49:54]

Senate Bill 691 -- [1:50:00]: Mr. Gieschen expressed concern about the passing of Senate Bill (SB) 691, which makes youth under age twelve (12) no longer criminally culpable, and another bill affecting life sentences for those under twenty-one (21). He requested information on how these laws would address serious situations like school shootings involving children under twelve (12).

YMCA Central -- [1:51:26]: Mr. Washburn reported that the YMCA had not yet submitted their zone change application to the Department of Planning and Permitting as promised during their May presentation. He listed nine concerns about the Central YMCA, including: allowing use of rooms without proper ventilation; altering potentially historic buildings without approval; sandblasting the building's stucco skin potentially exposing asbestos; renting space to unpermitted food trucks; blocking fire lanes; painting murals without permits; removing healthy palm trees; operating a commercial hotel without proper licenses; and benefiting from tax exemptions while no longer providing community services.

E-Bicycles -- [1:55:56]: Mr. Higa (via Member Chee) asked about the legality of bicycles with leg rests for carrying passengers. Member Hernandez clarified that it is illegal to have two people on a moped, and devices with pegs instead of operable pedals are not classified as bicycles under city ordinance.

Sheridan Park -- [1:58:27]: Mr. Mariano raised three concerns: 1) The short notice about removing parking at Sheridan Park for Parks and Recreation staff, questioning the effectiveness for preventing arson since staff only work weekdays; 2) Bicyclists riding dangerously across streets and popping wheelies in traffic; and 3) Issues with the "No Right Turn on Red" law, noting that while crossing at Kapiolani and Piikoi, cars frequently turn right while pedestrians have the right of way.

"No Right Turn on Red" -- [2:01:54]: Member Vanderbrink added concerns about the "No Right Turn on Red" at Kalakaua Avenue and Kapiolani Avenue, where cars frequently turn when pedestrians are crossing.

Pedestrian Safety -- [2:02:36]: Member Hernandez noted pedestrian safety issues crossing Kapiolani Boulevard, where the speed limit is 35 mph across six lanes of traffic. He mentioned that pedestrian signals don't provide enough time to cross, and drivers frequently violate pedestrians' right of way on both right and left turns.

Sheridan Park Playground Fire -- [ 2:04:14]: Mr. Beatty expressed frustration about the Sheridan Park playground fire and the focus on parking rather than park improvements. He suggested community involvement in rebuilding efforts, including tree planting, adding senior equipment, providing dog waste bags, and improving trash management. He mentioned adopting the park and encouraged others to join in cleanup efforts, noting that children enjoy helping with trash collection when given proper tools. Member Vanderbrink confirmed that DPR has funding to rebuild the playground, though it will take several months. He encouraged Mr. Beatty to share information about any cleanup events so the board could help promote them.

Cameras in Parks -- [2:10:08]: Mr. Gieschen asked if HPD has blue light cameras in parks. Member Vanderbrink mentioned that the City Council did pass a Bill to install more cameras at parks at every district to deter criminal activity.

8. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS -- [2:10:47]

Mayor Rick Blangiardi's Representative [2:00:01]: Ben Sullivan from the Mayor's Office of Climate Change, Sustainability, Resiliency provided updates on: the city's 80-acre master planning process for the Iwilei-Kapalama sub-corridor; McCoy Pavilion (no celebration planned but board members would be invited if one occurs); Ala Moana Regional Park cleanup (contact Denny Higa, Community Relations Specialist at dhiga8@honolulu.gov or 808-768-3034 for the Adopt-a-Park volunteer agreement); and the Central YMCA rezoning (the meeting with the board fulfilled requirements, and notices were sent to HOA boards as required by ordinance).

• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jTXEk8GKymDP9FKtQraMBaJUQszbkhzn/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [2:14:26]

• Member Vanderbrink asked about the board participating in the Pride parade with the city. Mr. Sullivan said he would work with NCO to provide an answer by the next meeting.

• Member Rice asked about responsibility for maintaining the dirt area with trash on the makai side of Kapiolani Boulevard in front of Auto Source. Mr. Sullivan said he would pass along the concern.

• Member Hernandez reminded everyone about the city's 311 app for reporting concerns, noting it tracks responses and provides good service.

• Mr. Washburn asked about obtaining the mailing list used by R.M. Towill Corporation for YMCA rezoning notices. Mr. Sullivan explained he only had information about the ordinance requirements, not the specific mailing list.

City Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) -- [2:19:35]: Sophia Anderson reported that their office submitted a riser request to address the uplifted sidewalk at the corner of Kapiolani Blvd. and Pensacola St., with repairs scheduled for September 2025 to address tree roots causing the uplift. She noted McCoy Pavilion is substantially complete but awaits an opening date. Their office also submitted a request to clear trash at the bus stop fronting Don Quijote.

• For questions and concerns please email scott.nishimoto@honolulu.gov or call (808)768-5005

• To subscribe to Councilmember Nishimoto's weekly e-blast, please go to http://eepurl.com/dI6xMz

City Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6) -- [2:21:07]: Robin Henski was present but had to leave the meeting early. She shared her report in the WebEx chat.

• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RB_rEdGI5naTGMiak9PlMR01YTKzT1Yu/view?usp=drive_link

State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) -- [2:21:31]: A report is provided at a later time in this meeting.

State Representative Adrian Tam (District 24) -- [2:21:46]: No representative at this time.

State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) -- [2:21:52]: Representative Iwamoto announced a Good Government Caucus check-in and listening session on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in conference room 325 at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, covering topics including open government, public access, transparency, campaign finance reform, ethics, and elections. She also mentioned their ongoing survey with about 600 responses so far, with data to be presented in November before the next legislative session.

• To sign up for Representative Iwamoto's Digital Newsletter, please sign-up at: https://eepurl.us15.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=01de4a82088f1ab343e51c50c&id=57abb0ff40

• House District 25 Issues Survey Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfV2lOlV6CzADX1FxxHdBYc6vk60hFfo274mfwsx113rAsygQ/viewform

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [2:24:18]

• Member Vanderbrink asked about House Bill (HB) 471 regarding Korean language programs, which Representative Iwamoto had introduced. He requested data related to the bill to inform a potential board resolution. Representative Iwamoto offered to follow up with information and noted that neighborhood board resolutions can be valuable additions to legislative testimony.

State Senator Sharon Moriwaki (District 12) -- [2:26:41]: Senator Moriwaki distributed a report on bills that passed during the legislative session, noting the governor vetoed only nine of the 20 bills he had intended to veto. She highlighted capital improvement projects relevant to the district, including Ala Wai Canal debris cleaning, wall repairs in Kakaʻako, geotechnical studies for contaminated land in Kakaʻako, and funding for Makiki Christian Church's roof repairs. She clarified that grants-in-aid to religious organizations support community services rather than religious activities. Senator Moriwaki also discussed housing initiatives, including a 99-year lease pilot project across from the Symphony Condo and a kupuna supportive housing project on Halekauwila St. and South Street, aimed at addressing the gap between independent and assisted living for seniors.

• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kqMYHLlUPOsgGnXAxwYGuBdqG4LQ8tRg/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [2:34:38]

• Member Vanderbrink expressed concern about the Hawaiʻi Convention Center allowing small-scale events during construction while blocking public parking, particularly for the Kawaii Con event limiting it to 15,000 attendees. He noted there's a large empty lot across from the convention center that could be used for parking. Senator Moriwaki asked for specific details by email so she could look into the issue.

• Senator Moriwaki introduced Joseph Kopshy who is a part of her Capitol Improvement Project (CIP) Staff.

Governor Josh Green's Representative -- [2:36:52]: Ashton Stallings shared the Governor's monthly newsletter for July. The newsletter features articles on the new State Fire Marshal, UH's new athletics director, and the Ala Moana pedestrian walkway.

• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kEPUnQJ5oZrfBPx0YSBeh_CWozZhE2en/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [2:38:13]

• Member Hernandez asked about the Governor's position on electric vehicles given his veto of Senate Bill (SB) 958. Ms. Stallings offered to take the question back to the Governor's office and provide a response at the next meeting or by email.

Hearing no objections, Chair Lee returned to Section 8.4 Representative Ikaika Olds.

State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) -- [2:21:31]: Representative Olds reported that House Bill (HB) 943 was signed into law as Act 299, establishing a substance abuse and mental health treatment center program under the Department of Health. He thanked Senator Moriwaki for her support of the companion bill. He also mentioned his office is conducting a 2025 interim survey, with about 120 responses received so far, which will help guide bill planning for the 2026 legislative session.

• To stay connected with Representative Olds, sign up for his digital newsletters and email blasts: https://mailchi.mp/capitol/email-sign-up

7. AGENCY REPORTS -- [2:41:28]

Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority (HCDA) -- [2:41:30]: Francine Murray reported on Act 252, which allows HCDA to work on projects outside their community development districts and use revenue bonds for statewide infrastructure improvement projects. She also mentioned an article on invasive species following the skunk found at Kakaako Waterfront Park. Ms. Murray provided an update on the lack of landscaping at Public Storage on Kapiolani Boulevard, noting they issued a notice of violation and the facility manager confirmed they're committed to resolving the issue, with work expected to start in late August.

• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10YrBzhQ8jyCCEOdnhUW1U3F9AsI5AupN/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [2:43:35]

• Member Rice asked if the landscaping work would cover the entire property or just the Kapiolani frontage. Ms. Murray didn't have that detail but noted they would replace the broken irrigation system on Kapiolani Boulevard. Member Rice also raised concerns about security at the Kewalo Dog Park (API Security doesn't respond to calls despite posted signs), trash collection in both the dog park and Kewalo Park, and unlocked trash bins at Kewalo Basin Harbor that lead to overflowing trash.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) -- [2:47:07]: Harry Cho invited everyone to a historic preservation workshop on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, featuring presentations on HART's preservation efforts along the rail alignment.

• To sign up for HART's weekly newsletter, please visit: https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001DFTCDgfTjag6k-qOH81D1A%3D%3D=

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. [2:47:56]

• Member Farinas asked about HART's decision not to include escalators at the Kapalama station, which could be one of the busiest due to its location near major employment centers. Mr. Cho offered to provide more insight into the reasoning behind this decision via email or at the next meeting. Members Hernandez and Member Vanderbrink echoed concerns about the lack of escalators, noting that modern transportation systems use escalators and they're important in open-air stations where heat is an issue when climbing multiple flights of stairs.

Honolulu Board of Water Supply (BWS) -- [2:50:20]: No representative present.

9. ANNOUNCEMENTS -- [2:50:21]

Upcoming events -- [1:57:55]: Chair Lee share the following: Dick Evans Memorial Road Race is on Sunday, August 24, 2025: https://hbl.org/demrr2025/; organized by the Aloha State Bicycle Racing Association (ASBRA); Aloha Festivals is in September 2025: https://www.alohafestivals.com/

• For information on upcoming events/street closures, visit: https://www8.honolulu.gov/dts/2025-events/

Social Media -- [2:50:31]: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlaMoanaKakaakoNB11; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alamoanakakaakonb11/

Next Meetings -- [2:50:32]: The next regular Board meeting will be on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 and that the Action Committee would meet on the second Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the smaller room at Makiki Christian Church.

The ʻŌlelo Broadcasts -- [2:50:56]: Recordings of the meetings are broadcast on ʻŌlelo 49 on the first and third Thursdays at 8:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m., and every second Sunday at 6:00 p.m. The full schedule is at https://olelo.org/tv-schedule/). Recordings may also be viewed at https://www.honolulu.gov/cms-nco-menu/site-nco-sitearticles/1657-board-meeting-video-archive.html

10. ADJOURNMENT -- [2:51:16]: Chair Lee adjourned the meeting at 8:53 p.m.

Submitted by: Camilia Epa Gomes, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO

Reviewed by: Robert Whitsell, Deputy, NCO

Finalized by:

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