WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 c/o NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 530 SOUTH KING STREET, ROOM 406 HONOLULU, HAWAII, 96813 PHONE: (808) 768-3710 FAX: (808) 768-3711 INTERNET: www.honolulu.gov/nco
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 FILIPINO COMMUNITY CENTER
CALL TO ORDER – Chair Rito Saniatan called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. A quorum was established with 15 members present. Note: This 19-member Board requires 10 members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.
Board Members Present – Maureen Andrade, Cory Chun (arrived at 7:14 p.m.), Lorraine Duhaylonsod, Marcella Granquist, Connie Herolaga, Rachele Lamosao, Peter Lee, Darryl Macha, Rodney Nakashima, Richard Oshiro, Rito Saniatan, Krystal Shon, Blaine Tsugawa, Ruffalyne Villanueva, Chuck Wheatley and George Yakowenko.
Board Members Absent – Marty Burke, Sy Cullen and Kent Jiang.
Guests – Officer Anson “Kaipo” Paiva (Honolulu Police Department – Weed and Seed); Ed Manglallan (Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s Representative); Councilmember Brandon Elefante and Dion Mesta; Mark Watanabe (Council Chair Ron Menor’s Office); Darrell Young (Governor Ige’s Representative); Senator Michelle Kidani; Senator Clarence Nishihara; Lorraine Tosiek (Senator Gabbard’s Office); Representative Henry Aquino; Representative Roy Takumi; Representative Ty Cullen; Captain Chuck Boler (559th Transportation Brigade); Pat Lee, Chris Wong and Johnny Reid (Honolulu Rapid Transit Project); Deanna Espinas (Hawaii Plantation Village); P. Watson (Honua); Joy Schoonover; Jesse Tibayan; Kelly Yamamoto; Steven Antonio (Videographer); and Brittany Yadao (Neighborhood Commission Office).
INTRODUCTION OF BOARD MEMBERS AND GUESTS – Those present introduced themselves.
FIRST RESPONDERS’ REPORTS
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – No representative was present; no report was provided.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – No representative was present; The January 2017 Incidents Report was submitted to Chair Saniatan.
Weed and Seed Officer – Officer Kaipo Paiva reported the following: Point in Time (PIT) Count: Officer Paiva noted his participation in the Statewide Point in Time (PIT) count. The goal of the count is to obtain a reliable estimate of the sheltered and unsheltered homeless individuals and families at a specific point in time. Officer Paiva noted that the PIT count is then submitted to the United States (US) government to receive additional funds that will go towards assisting those who are residentially challenged. Drug Free Sign-Waving: There will be a Drug Free sign-waving campaign with Waipahu Elementary School on Thursday, February 9, 2017 from 7:15 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. Drug Free Walk: The Drug Free sign-waving campaign will be followed by a Drug Free Walk with Waipahu Elementary School on Thursday, February 9, 2017 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Drug Free Sign-Waving: There will be a Drug Free sign-waving campaign with Project Ho'omana on Thursday, February 23, 2017 from 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Contact: Anyone interested in submitting comments, questions or concerns regarding Weed and Seed can do so at www.honolulupd.org.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Promotion: Tsugawa asked and Officer Paiva responded that he did not recently get promoted. Officer Paiva added that he would prefer to stay in his current position as he enjoys the duties of his job. 2. Traffic: Yakowenko noted that at Waipahu Elementary School, on Waipahu Street and Waikele Road, there are two (2) signs that visibly state “No Parking” from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. except for school buses. This allows room for school buses that are picking up students after school to pull out of traffic so that students can board the bus. Yakowenko noted that he has observed cars parked there on four (4) separate occasions within a two (2) week time period after 2:00 p.m. This causes buses to sit in the lane
Oahu’s Neighborhood Board System – Established 1973 WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE2OF10
of traffic rather than pulling to the side to allow students to board the bus; in addition, Yakowenko observed students and adults jaywalking. Yakowenko noted that he tried to alert HPD of the issue so that violators would be reprimanded, however, HPD did not arrive in enough time to respond. Yakowenko asked that HPD be proactive and arrive during the after school rush to observe and regulate these offenses. Officer Paiva replied that he will be working on the PIT count for a while longer but will try to assign an officer to the area for the following day. 3. Weed and Seed Funding: Herolaga asked and Officer Paiva replied that the mission of the Weed and Seed program is alive and present despite a lack of funding due to the programs’ expansion. 4. Raid: Andrade asked and Officer Paiva replied that the Stop sign that was damaged on Kunia Road by the Denny’s happened before a raid that happened that day as well. Officer Paiva added that the traffic/crowd level was minimized due to “No Parking” signs that were recently placed along Kunia Road. 5. Parking on Sidewalk: Wheatley noted his attendance at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) on Kahualii Street. Wheatley added that cars have been observed parking on the sidewalk which prevents church-goers who catch the bus to the Church from utilizing the sidewalk. Officer Paiva asked and Wheatley replied that it is not church-goers who are parking on the sidewalks and added that the church has tried to use “tow-away zone” signs with some success but residents continue to park on the sidewalk. Officer Paiva replied that Wheatley can submit this concern to www.honolulupd.org and leave his contact information, HPD can then provide feedback to let him know how the issue is being addressed.
Board member Cory Chun arrived at 7:14 p.m.; there were 16 board members present.
Military Services – Captain Chuck Boler, United States Army, reported the following: Helicopter Training: The Marine Corps helicopter night training was scheduled for 7:00 p.m. to midnight between Tuesday, January 31, 2017 and Wednesday, February 1, 2017, at Schofield Barracks. Helicopter Hotline – Anyone wanting to report loud or low flying helicopters from the Army can call 656- 3487. For all other complaints call the Army Public Affairs Office at 656-3159, they are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Leilehua Concert Series – The community is invited to attend a free and open to the public concert series at the Leilehua Golf Course at “The Grill” restaurant. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment by local musicians; food and drinks are available for purchase. Military ID card is not required. The next performance is scheduled for Friday, January 27, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. with Nathan Aweau and Friday, February 24, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. with Mount Keala.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Aircraft Noise Pollution: Resident Joy Schoonover raised concerns of commercial aircrafts flying over residential homes in Waipio Gentry for the last four (4) months, sometimes all day long. This includes tour helicopters as well as prop planes. Schoonover has reached out to several agencies with no lead on who can regulate noise pollution. Schoonover proposed that the Board pass a motion that the State establish an “Aircraft Noise Abatement Program” to represent tax paying residents on the issue of aircraft noise pollution. 2. Unrelated: Tsugawa commented that Schoonover’s request was not related to military and should be presented at a later time. Chair Saniatan noted that he asked Schoonover to present at this time as he thought that it would relate to the helicopter hotline. Saniatan asked that the Mayor’s Representative and Governor’s Representative take note of the issue and respond during their turn to report. 3. Response: Oshiro asked if Captain Boler could comment or advise the resident on the issue. Captain Boler replied that he could not respond on the issue and directed Schoonover to the Army Public Affairs Office.
RESIDENT/COMMUNITY CONCERNS – Lighthouse Outreach Center: Herolaga noted her opposition to new regulations adopted by the State that will result in the closure of Waipahu’s only emergency homeless shelter, The Lighthouse Outreach Center.
CITY REPORTS
Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s Representative – Ed Manglallan, Deputy Director of the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) circulated a newsletter and reported the following: Thomas Square Restoration: The proposed Thomas Square Restoration Master Plan will honor the historical significance of Thomas Square, especially the restoration of the Hawaiian Monarchy on July 31, WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE3OF10
1843. In addition the project will return the park to a more stately landscape, and incorporate art and culture as part of the Thomas Square/Honolulu Museum of Art District. Mayor’s Priorities: The Mayor will continue to prioritize road repaving projects, bus service, parks, sewers and housing. Blaisdell Center Master Plan: The iconic Blaisedell Arena and Concert Hall will be under-going renovations. The full report is available at www.honolulu.gov/Tod. West Coast Mayor’s Summit: Mayor Kirk Caldwell attended a West Coast Mayor’s Summit to discuss the issues and solutions of homelessness and resiliency. Neighborhood Board Elections: All interested residents are encouraged to register as Neighborhood Board candidates. The deadline for candidate and voter registration is Friday, February 17, 2017. You can register online at the NCO website (http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/), or obtain a copy of the form at the Public Information Center located at 550 South King Street #102 or at the new NCO Office located at 925 Dillingham Boulevard Suite 160. Hardcopy forms must be submitted to the NCO. Moped Registration: The Department of Customer Services (CSD) reminds moped owners that a new State law requires the annual safety inspection and registration of mopeds beginning Sunday, January 1, 2017. Registered owners of mopeds on Oahu will need to get a safety inspection and register mopeds initially this year and annually thereafter. Four-Way Stop: Herolaga requested that the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) add a four (4)- way stop signal at the intersection of Farrington Highway and Mokuola Street. DTS replied that they would place a separate face on the traffic light from Mokuola Street to Awalau Street and onto Farrington Highway. This will lengthen the waiting time for drivers heading East bound and West bound on Farrington Highway and will benefit traffic coming from Awalau Street and Mokuola Street. Street Dedication: Tsugawa has been in contact with Deputy Director Manglallan regarding driveways that are not up to code. The Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) replied that they are evaluating a list of Renaissance Street Dedication Discrepancies prepared by Tsugawa. Coordination with the Developer and the Board of Water Supply (BWS) is required. Deputy Director Manglallan added that the project is an ongoing process with many agencies involved.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Waiver: Tsugawa thanked Deputy Director Manglallan for providing DPP with the list of addresses. Tsugawa asked if there are any waivers for the design flaws or if the flaws must be fixed. Deputy Director Manglallan replied that the City must fix the flaws and the improvement is then dedicated back to the City. 2. Aircraft Noise Pollution: Chair Saniatan asked and Deputy Director Manglallan advised Schoonover to submit testimony at the upcoming legislative hearing. 3. Trash Pick-Up: Lamosao noted her observation that several houses on her street including her own have not had their trash picked up on separate occasions. This is occurring on Nalii Street in Waipahu. 4. Trash Pick-Up: Lamosao noted that she and her neighbors will sometimes forget to put their trash bins out. They will take the trash bin to the opposite side of the road if (the opposite side) trash has not been picked up yet. Lamosao says she has observed trash service skipping over the bins that were taken to the opposite side of the road (occurring on Nalii Street). Deputy Director Manglallan advised Lamosao to contact the refuse hotline at 768-3200. Deputy Director Manglallan added that trash services should pick up the trash bins despite it being moved to the opposite side of the street where trash has not yet been picked up. 5. Concerns Not in Minutes: Herolaga noted that she received a complaint from resident Reginald Daguman who noticed that his concerns were not recorded in the Waipahu Neighborhood Board No. 22 minutes for the meetings that he attended. His concerns ranged from rail to parking issues. This issue was observed for two (2) months-worth of minutes. 6. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Oshiro and other Board and community members expressed concern for the closing of the Lighthouse Outreach Center in Waipahu due to new State regulations. The Board and community would like to know what actions/reactions the City is taking. Deputy Director Manglallan replied that when he last spoke with the Housing Officer for the City Union, it was discussed that this is a State issue and the City should comply. However, the City is looking into other options for low-income rentals and other homeless shelters that already meet the new State requirements. Oshiro asked if the City is going to challenge the new regulations and Deputy Director Manglallan replied that dialogue is continuous. 7. Trash Pickup: Yakowenko noted that bulky trash service for Waipahu Street was one (1) week late in trash pickup. This lateness caused trash to pile up and block the sidewalk for disabled/wheelchair bound residents. Yakowenko requested that if trash pick-up will be late that streets with a high population be prioritized for trash pick-up. Deputy Director Manglallan replied that there was no trash pick-up service on WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE4OF10
the Monday following New Year’s Day. Yakowenko replied that the holiday was not in effect for the week of late trash service. 8. Cement Triangle: Wheatley noted his previous complaints of a cement triangle on Farrington Highway and Pupukahi Street that held the street light signal. It was removed by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) and DTS is now responsible for replacing the triangle. Wheatley asked why this should be the State’s responsibility since HART damaged the triangle. Deputy Director Manglallan replied that the HART representatives would address Wheatley’s concern when it is their turn to make a report.
Governor David Ige’s Representative – Darrell Young, Deputy Director of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Harbor Division, reported the following: Accomplishments: Deputy Director Young noted that the December 2016 Capitol Connection newsletter highlights Governor Ige’s accomplishments for the last two (2) years. This includes education and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), significant progress in housing and homelessness, energy sustainability, protecting our oceans and watersheds, and fiscal accountability to manage taxpayer funds better. State of the State Address: In Governor Ige’s State of the State Address on Monday, January 23, 2017, he highlighted four (4) key points that the administration will be focusing for the coming years. This includes transforming the State’s schools, reshaping the economy, addressing homelessness and building more affordable homes, and making government more efficient so that it can continue to work for the people. Progress in Education: Governor Ige’s State of the State address mentioned a Waipahu High School student who is on track to obtain her Associates in Arts (AA) degree before graduating from high school. This is due to the Governor’s efforts to promote and expand Early College courses that allow high school students to obtain college credits through a State funded program.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Aircraft Noise Pollution: Deputy Director Young responded to the aircraft noise pollution issue raised by resident Schoonover. The State is moving some general aviation aircrafts to the west side to create a safety buffer between large commercial planes and smaller commercial crafts. In the past, they have flown from Kalaeloa over the agriculture fields in Kunia. Perhaps they (aircraft pilots) drifted over Waikele/Waipio. Deputy Director Young noted that he wasn’t aware of the tour helicopters but will look into the issue. 2. H1 and Moanalua Road: Tsugawa asked if the State has jurisdiction over the connection/fly-over between the H1 Freeway and Moanalua Road and requeted that the Hale Koa trees growing on the jersey wall be cut down. Deputy Director Young replied that he would follow-up with the issue. Tsugawa clarified that the jersey wall is located in between the H3 cutoff and the merge onto Moanalua Road by Red Hill heading Town bound. 3. Teacher Pay Negotiations: Nakashima noted that the State’s one (1) percent bonus offer to teachers over the next two (2) years seemed low and that the state should offer something better. 4. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Herolaga asked and Deputy Director Young replied that the 45 families that were displaced by the closing of the Lighthouse emergency shelter were relocated. 5. Bump in the Road: Tsugawa asked if the previous concern of a bump in the road on the on-ramp has been settled. Deputy Director Young replied that it might be scheduled into the next contract but he would follow-up.
Council Chair Ron Menor – Council Chair Ron Menor circulated a newsletter and reported the following: Central Oahu Regional Park (CORP) Dog Park: The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Deputy Director Jeanne Ishikawa will be holding a final community meeting for residents to provide their input or concerns regarding the project. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at CORP. Additionally, DPR recently confirmed that the City will be proceeding with the design phase of the planned parking lot expansion at CORP this year. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Council Chair Menor noted his concerns regarding the closing of the Lighthouse Outreach Center as it is an important facility for West Oahu. Council Chair Menor added that he is organizing a meeting with Pastor Hunkin, a representative from the State Department of Human Services (DHS) and a service provider contracted with the state who has expressed a willingness and openness to work with the Lighthouse Facility so that they can continue to provide shelter services to the community. Homeless: Council Chair noted speaking with Director Ross Sasamura of the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) regarding the enforcement and relocation of homeless at the Waipahu parks. WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE5OF10
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Heavy Wind Protection: Wheatley noted his concerns regarding trees in the parking lot of Don Quijote and Zippys by the canal that could be knocked over by passing wind storms and cause flooding in the canal. 2. Homeless: Wheatley suggested an idea to combat homelessness by purchasing vacant land and creating temporary housing and services for those in need. Ron Menor took note of the suggestion and added that there is a need for the City to explore out-of-the-box ideas.
Councilmember Brandon Elefante – Councilmember Brandon Elefante circulated a newsletter and reported the following: Committee Lineup: Councilmember Elefante noted that the City Council has reorganized and congratulated Council Chair Menor on his recent leadership position. Councilmember Elefante will continue to Chair the Committee for Public Health, Safety and Welfare. He will also be the Vice Chair of the Committee on Budget and the Committee on the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO). Councilmember Elefante will also be a voting member on all Council Committees which include the Committee on Business, Economic Development and Tourism; Executive Matters and Legal Affairs; Parks, Community and Customer Services; Public Works, Infrastructure and Sustainability; Transportation and Planning; and Zoning and Housing. Bill 69 (2016): Bill 69 (2016) would require that an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) be placed on each floor of a City building as well as one (1) on each floor of newly constructed buildings with an occupant load of 20 or more. Bill 69 (2015): Bill 69 (2015) was introduced by Councilmember Elefante regarding a five (5) dollar a day fare for all-day unlimited bus rides for adults. The bill was passed to allow five (5) dollars a day, all-day for adults and 2.50 dollars for unlimited all-day rides for children. Councilmember Elefante thanked his colleagues for their support in his effort to increase bus ridership. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Councilmember Elefante noted his concerns for the closing of the Lighthouse emergency shelter as it is the only one (1) immediately available to Waipahu residents.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Bill 6 (2017): Lamosao asked and Councilmember Elefante replied that Bill 6 (2017) would prohibit pedestrians from utilizing a mobile electronic device while crossing the street. The bill passed first reading on Wednesday, January 26, 2017, and has been referred to the Committee on Transportation and Planning for further discussion. 2. Restrict Funding for Bike Lanes: Tsugawa asked if the Council could introduce a bill that would restrict the Mayor from spending funds towards bike lanes. Specifically on Nuuanu Avenue and any future bike lanes that the Mayor may wish to impose on City residents. Councilmember Elefante replied that he would take the request into consideration. 3. After-School Traffic: Shon noted that the traffic situation at August Ahrens Elementary School for the after-school pick-up continues and has caused bottlenecking at the Waipio exit into Waipahu. Shon asked if alternative measures were being taken other than ticketing parents that need to pick up their children. Councilmember Elefante replied that he recently did a Complete Streets walk with National Complete Streets expert Dan Burden in the area. Councilmember Elefante noted that he has been working with Principal Nguyen of August Ahrens Elementary School and the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) regarding restricting parking at the main entrance of the school near the bus-stop.
Board of Water Supply (BWS): No representative was present; a report was not provided.
Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) – Pat Lee reported the following: General Excise Tax (GET) Extension: HART and the City and County of Honolulu will be seeking an extension of the half percent GET surcharge from the State Legislature to obtain more funds to complete the 20-mile, 21 station rail project. Due to projected increases in construction costs, an extension of the GET is needed to finish the full project as planned. Progress: HART has completed over 10 miles of the guide way, the tracks are being installed and the final segments are in place between Aloha Stadium and Kapolei. Train Qualification Testing: Progress is being made at the Rail Operations Center (ROC) which is the location for the train controls, operations and maintenance. The test tracks at the ROC should be energized soon and will be followed by train testing on the guide ways at night and on the weekends. The trains will be tested at nights and on weekends. Testing includes verification of all safety features of the WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE6OF10
signaling system, starting and stopping at various station locations, keeping proper speed and schedule, and stopping at the correct spot at the stations where the platform passenger safety gates open and close for boarding. Signaling System Tests: Following the train qualification testing, HART will perform the signaling system integrated qualification test. This will verify the over-speed protection and other safety features of the signaling system. Once the preliminary testing is completed the train will progress into automated operations testing. The State Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) will certify the Honolulu rail transit system as the first fully-automated, driverless system built in the United States (US). Shop and Dine on the Line: HART sends a reminder about the Shop and Dine on the Line program to assist businesses along the rail alignment during construction. The website is www.shopanddineontheline.com for more details and a list of participating businesses. Contact and More Information: For general project information, traffic updates, meeting notices and more information, please visit the website at www.honolulutransit.org or call the project hotline at 566-2299 or email a question at [email protected]. Cement Triangle: Chris Wong reported on the cement triangle issue raised by Wheatley. The asphalt pavement is uneven which makes it difficult for pedestrians and elderly to walk safely in the area. It has been determined that this crosswalk in particular is caused by pre-existing conditions and does not fall under the responsibility of Kiewit. Any concerns regarding this particular crosswalk should be directed to the State DOT. Farrington Highway Landscaping: Wong responded to a previous concern by Herolaga regarding landscaping on Farrington Highway. HART will be planting grass via hydro-seed on the West Oahu Farrington Highway medians. Irrigation for the grass has been installed to maintain growth. Chain Link Fence: Wong responded to Lee’s inquiry as to whether or not the fencing near the pillars are a permanent installation. The chain link fence was installed to deter jay-walking. State orders dictate that fencing be placed in certain areas such as, Waipahu High School and Waipahu Intermediate School where jay-walking issues are relevant. Expanding chain link fencing throughout the entire area would incur additional expenses. Left-Turn: Wong responded to Herolaga’s request that a No Left-Turn sign be placed at the exit of Taniokas for preventative action. Several signs have been installed instructing drivers to exit safely. There is currently a no left-turn sign. Herolaga noted that the sign is not visible, Wong replied that he would take note of the sign’s visibility. Striping on the road is meant to deter any unpermissable driving movements.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Construction Schedule: Andrade noted a conversation regarding Kiewit construction starting at 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. instead of 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in consideration of morning and afternoon traffic. Wong replied that he would follow-up with the construction scheduling. 2. Left-Turn: Tsugawa asked if the review is still underway for the left-turn from Farrington Highway into the parking lot for Taniokas. Wong replied that he would look into the issue and provide a follow-up.
Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park (CORP) – A representative was not present; Lee reported the following: Next Meeting: The next CORP meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 13, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Aquatic Center.
Waipahu Community Foundation (WCF) – A representative was not present; a report was not available.
Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO), Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) – Marcella Granquist reported the following: CAC Previous Meeting: The last CAC meeting was held on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. CAC Next Meeting: The next scheduled meeting is yet to be determined, however, the meetings are usually held on the third Tuesday or Wednesday of each month at 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. The meetings are held at Honolulu Hale but will also be held at Kapolei Hale once or twice a year. CAC Previous Meeting: The previous meeting included a presentation regarding the Village Park Sub- Area Corridor Study for better traffic and pedestrian conditions. During the study, 60 accidents have been recorded since July 2009, the causes were speeding and hitting fixed objects. The recommendations include restriping Kapuna Loop with a five (5) foot bike lane and a seven (7) foot parking lane. Another recommendation was to construct round-abouts on two (2) streets on either side of the Elementary WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE7OF10
School, Aiki Street and Kaaholo Street. A traffic circle will be added on lower Kaaholo Street. The timeframe for these recommendations is after the loop is repaved in 2017. Construction will be done with 2018 funding. Contraflow Operations Traffic Assessment Report: It was recommended that the Complete Streets aspect be redone with attention to Ward Avenue, Dillingham Boulevard and Kapiolani Boulevard. Nimitz Highway is considered to be the State’s responsibility rather than City and County. Three (3) Transportation Alternative Program (TAP): Tap is up for consideration by the Policy Board. Priority one (1) is the Ala Wai Canal Bridge for bikes and pedestrians with attention to intersections. The second priority is a bike share system in Honolulu for tourists and residents. The third priority is an East Kapolei rail station and multi-modal improvement for entities such as The Bus, community van and bikers. These priorities were accepted for the fiscal year 2017 to 2020.
Reports of Board Members’ Attendance at Other Meetings – There were none to report.
Other Reports – There were none to report.
BOARD BUSINESS
Approval of Thursday, November 17, 2016 Regular Meeting Minutes: The November 2016 regular meeting minutes were APPROVED as amended by UNANIMOUS CONSENT, 16-0-0 (AYE: Andrade, Chun, Duhaylonsod, Granquist, Herolaga, Lamosao, Lee, Macha, Nakashima, Oshiro, Saniatan, Shon, Tsugawa, Villanueva, Wheatley and Yakowenko; Nay: None; Abstain: None).
Amendments: 1. Page 4, Four-Way Stop: Strike out “four-way stop sign” and replace with “four-way stop signal.” 2. Page 8, Hawaii Bicycling League Vote: Strike out “Burke moved and Wheatley seconded that the Waipahu Board No. 22 supports the implementation of the Leeward Bikeway. The motion was APPROVED, 8-5-1 (Aye: Burke, Chun, Granquist, Lee, Macha, Nakashima, Oshiro and Wheatley; Nay: Herolaga, Andrade, Villanueva, Lamosao and Duhaylonsod; Abstain: Tsugawa).”
(The vote did not meet quorum to pass and will be struck from the record and redone at the next meeting.)
Treasurer’s Report: Lee stated that $20.33 was spent on postage, envelopes, and other printing costs for the months of November 2016 and spent $18.72 in December 2016, leaving a remaining balance of $221.15.
PRESENTATIONS
Hawaii Plantation Village Update – Deanna Espinas reported the following: New Year’s Celebration: On Saturday, February 4, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. the Hawaii Plantation Village will be celebrating the New Year with a multi-cultural twist. The public is invited to attend the event for special activities, food and entertainment. Partnership Production Plays: The Leeward Community College (LCC) Theatre group will be holding plays on Saturday, February 11, 2017 and Sunday, February 12, 2017 and each following weekend. The performance will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a second performance at 2:00 p.m. live in front of the Filipino and Portuguese houses. The plays will be based on plantation stories. Honouliuli Internment Exhibit: The grant was won for the Village through the National Park Service.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Name of the Play: Herolaga asked and Espinas replied that the play is called Plantation Plays. 2. Grant-in-Aid (GIA): Lamosao asked and Espinas replied that the Hawaii Plantation Village did apply for a GIA for the New Year.
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Senator Michelle Kidani – Senator Michelle Kidani circulated a newsletter and reported the following: Teacher Salary Negotiations: The one (1) percent bonus for teachers is a proposal by Governor Ige’s negotiation team with the Hawaii State Teacher’s Association (HSTA) which would equate to around $500 a year for two (2) years. WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE8OF10
Early College: Waipahu High School leads the State in the dual-credit program. The Academy of Engineering students will be at the Building Industry Association (BIA) Home Building and Remodeling Show. Opening Day: Opening Day for the State Legislature was on Wednesday, January 18, 2017, this means that hearings will start at 8:30 a.m. every weekday except holidays. Although chamber sessions are on recess, committee meetings are ongoing. Senator Kidani thanked all those who came out in full support on opening day. Committee Lineup: Senator Kidani was elected as Vice President of the Hawaii State Senate. Senator Kidani will continue to serve as Chair of the Senate Education Committee; Vice Chair of the Committee on Higher Education; and will be a member of the Commerce, Consumer Protection and Health Committee. Senator Kidani is also the Vice Chair of the Education Committee for the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) as well as the Commissioner for the Education Commission of States (ECS) which is also a national organization. Flu Shot: The Protect Hawaiis Keiki Stop Flu at School program will be providing flu shots for students at Waipahu Intermediate School on Thursday, February 2, 2017 and at Waipahu Elementary School on Thursday, February 9, 2017. The flu shot will available to Kaleiopuu Elementary School students on Tuesday, February 14, 2017. Flu shots are available to students who turned in their parent permission forms. Waipahu High School Girls Soccer: Senator Kidani congratulated the Waipahu High School Girls Varsity Soccer OIA Division Two (2) Champions. Newsletter Inserts: Senator Kidani provided a list of bills that she will be focusing on in the 2017 session. Senator Kidani also provided a flyer regarding information for the Preschool Open Doors program which assists parents financially so that they can send their children to preschool. They are accepting applications from Monday, January 23, 2017 to Friday, March 31, 2017.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: Lighthouse Outreach Center: Tsugawa asked and Senator Kidani replied that she doesn’t sit on the pertaining Committee and added that the Bill in question is being looked at again for amendments that may help facilities like the Lighthouse Outreach Center. Tsugawa added that the ruling seems counter-productive.
Senator Clarence Nishihara – Senator Clarence Nishihara circulated a newsletter and reported the following: Lighthouse Outreach Center: Senator Nishihara addressed the Lighthouse Outreach Center issue and noted that he spoke with Scott Morashige who responded that overtures were made in regards to the Lighthouse facility; however, Pastor Hunkin did not submit due to a lack of funds. Senator Nishihara noted his frustration with the new regulations. Senate Bills (SB): Senator Nishihara listed some of the bills that he has introduced this session which include SB1295, SB607, SB1037, and SB1039. Hawaii Harm Reduction 2017 Conference: Senator Nishihara attended the Friday, January 13, 2017 conference held at the Ala Moana Hotel. The theme of the conference was “Humanize not Criminalize,” which focused on a set of strategies and philosophy for working with people engaged in potentially harmful behaviors. Other topics covered include research on cannabis, justice for Native Hawaiians, incarceration politics, social services to sex workers and more. State Agricultural Rural Leaders (SARL) Conference: The three (3) day conference focused on agricultural issues and included tours of various farming operations. Angola Prison: Another informative tour Senator Nishihara attended was to the Angola Prison to see their farming and ranching techniques as well as their automotive training center run by inmates.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. SB9: Macha noted his opposition to SB9 regarding instructor insurance and added that it would not be beneficial to hard working citizens. Senator Nishihara replied that there should at least be certain requirements. 2. Medical Marijuana: Shon asked and Senator Nishihara replied that his stance on medical marijuana is that before the State approves recreational use for marijuana that the laws need to work properly and efficiently. 3. SB607: Herolaga asked and Senator Nishihara replied that he is unsure if there is any funding related to SB607 but will follow-up. 4. Agriculture Program: Lamosao asked and Senator Nishihara replied that the jails in Hawaii are growing crops to help offset the inmate population and added that the program could be expanded to work with the University of Hawaii. WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE9OF10
5. Medical Marijuana: Wheatley noted a recessed skin cancer condition he has that is aided through the use of Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, however, the prices for CBD oil are costly. Senator Nishihara asked and Wheatley replied that the CBD oil is sold at health food stores.
Representative Henry Aquino – Representative Aquino reported the following: Committee Lineup: Senator Aquino will continue as the Chair of the Transportation Committee and will be a member of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, and the Housing Committee. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Representative Aquino noted his disappointment to hear of the result of the Lighthouse facility. Representative Aquino noted that money should have been available through the Department of Human Services (DHS) to ensure compliance with the new regulations. The Lighthouse facility provides the only emergency shelter beds from Honolulu to Kalaeloa.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Tsugawa noted his frustration and opposition to the outcome of the Lighthouse facility due to the new regulations. 2. Population Density: Shon noted that more people are moving to the Waipahu area by the lure of affordable housing which is creating limited parking for current residents. Shon asked if there will be incentives for high school students to not purchase vehicles. Representative Aquino replied that the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is working on the issue as it falls in line with the rail.
Representative Ty Cullen – Representative Cullen reported the following: Constituent Services: Representative Cullen’s newsletter provides information for constituents who may need legal assistance. House Bill (HB) 1507: HB1507 would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish a Community Crosswalks Pilot Program to design and implement specially painted crosswalks in neighborhoods. Committee Lineup: Representative Cullen is Vice Chair of the Finance Committee and a member of the Energy and Environment Protection Committee as well as the Water and Land Committee. Lighthouse Outreach: Representative Cullen noted that he will be meeting with DHS officials regarding the Lighthouse facility. Representative Cullen added that the PIT count from 2016 found that 92 percent were unsheltered and that they requested safer shelters, more space, restrooms and showers which resulted in the new regulations. Representative Cullen noted that funding is the big issue and the State is continuing to work with shelters.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: Under Utilized Shelters: Tsugawa noted that some shelters are being under-utilized while the Leeward Coast does not have an excess of shelters. Representative Cullen noted that HB204 works to address the lack of funding towards the homeless crisis.
Representative Roy Takumi – Representative Takumi reported the following: Introduction: Representative Takumi introduced Jane Clark who will report to the Waipahu Neighborhood Board No. 22 meetings when he is unable to make the meeting. Lighthouse Outreach Center: Representative Takumi noted the challenges facing the Lighthouse facility and added that the need for transitional housing is important. Committee Lineup: Representative Takumi will Chair the Education committee and will be a member of the Economic Development and Business Committee as well as the Higher Education Committee and the Labor and Public Employment Committee. Teacher Salary Negotiation: Representative Takumi noted that the negotiations with HSTA and the State are ongoing. The most recent proposal is a $1500 bonus for each teacher but the bonus would not apply towards retirement. Negotiations are ongoing.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Homeless: Herolaga noted that many of the families at the Lighthouse shelter are homeless due to high rent that they cannot afford. Representative Takumi replied that the State does have a rent deposit assistance fund to help offset the cost of rent deposit. Representative Takumi noted that young people are moving away due to rising costs of living. 2. Property Tax: Representative Takumi noted that the HSTA has proposed a bill for a constitutional amendment that would enable the State to implement property tax assessment that would to go towards schools. WAIPAHU NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 22 THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2017 REGULARMEETINGMINUTES PAGE10OF 10
Representative Ryan Yamane – Representative Yamane reported the following: Committee Lineup: Representative Yamane will Chair the Committee on Water and Land and will be a member of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee as well as the Energy and Environmental Protection Committee. Flood Insurance: The Legislature is working to address flood insurance concerns which may affect over 60,000 home owner policies in the event of a flood or hurricane.
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Death with Dignity: Tsugawa asked and Representative Yamane noted his past experience working as a social worker and understands both sides of the debate and added that he is open to the discussion. Tsugawa noted that many residents may be facing the decision in a few years and the option should be addressed. Representative Yamane noted that those interested should let their legislators know of their position. 2. HB1417: Shon noted HB1417 would require the Hawaii emergency management agency to develop a post-disaster fresh drinking water security plan. Shon asked if the plan would include military bases and agencies to be compliant and who would enforce the plan. Representative Yamane replied that the plan would include the military. The motive is to ensure that water is accessible to residents in the event of a disaster.
Senator Mike Gabbard – Lorraine Tosiek reported the following: Committee Lineup: Senator Gabbard will now Chair the Agriculture and Environment Committee and is Vice Chair of the Water and Land Committee as well as a member of the Judiciary and Labor Committee. Legislative Priorities: Senator Gabbard will be focused on renewable energy, food production, land and ocean conservation and more. East Kapolei Middle School: Senator Gabbard will work towards obtaining funding for the East Kapolei Middle School to begin construction. Kalaeloa Enterprise Energy Corridor: This project will bring Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) power into Kalaeloa via a 12-kilovolts electrical line. Construction on the project should start by spring 2017. Constituent Meeting: Constituents are invited to meet with Senator Gabbard in an informal environment to discuss current issues. The next meeting is on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at the Kapolei Elementary School Teachers Lounge from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Contact: Senator Gabbard can be contacted via phone at 586-6830 or by email at [email protected].
Questions, comments and concerns followed: 1. Presence: Herolaga requested that Senator Gabbard attend a Waipahu Neighborhood Board No. 22 meeting. 2. Pueo: Shon asked for an update on the Pueo issue in Kapolei. 3. Emails: Wheatley noted that he receives constant emails to attend Senator Gabbard’s meeting in Kapolei and asked why Senator Gabbard doesn’t hold any meetings for Waipahu constituents.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: Next Regular Meeting: The next regular meeting of the Waipahu Neighborhood Board No. 22 is scheduled for Thursday, February 23, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Filipino Community Center.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m.
Submitted by: Brittany Yadao, Neighborhood Assistant Reviewed by: Sharon Baillie, Neighborhood Assistant Finalized by: Chair Rito Saniatan