NORTH SHORE NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 27
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2024
WAIALUA ELEMENTARY CAFETERIA
67-020 WAIALUA BEACH ROAD
7:00 P.M.
Meeting Materials: Find an archive of handouts and referenced materials concerning to North Shore Neighborhood Board No. 27 at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1IHC_YHAUoI_2hPauiSJ1nbvIiMu5giyt
Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments under two (2) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports less than three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices.
Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) vote (10) of this 15-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. Items may not be added if they are of major importance and will affect a significant number of people.
I. CALL TO ORDER: Chair Kathleen Pahinui
II. DECLARATION OF ANY CONFLICTS BY BOARD MEMBERS: Board members to state if they hold any conflicts regarding any issue under board business, per Section 2-14-116 and Section 2-13-105 of the Neighborhood Plan, that would require disclosure or recusal.
III. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS (Limited to three (3) Minutes Each)
A. Honolulu Fire Department
B. Honolulu Police Department
C. Board of Water Supply
IV. RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS: (Limited to two (2) Minutes Each)
V. CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS (Limited to three (3) Minutes Each)
A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi Representative – Matt Gonser
B. Council Member Matt Weyer
VI. BOARD BUSINESS (Limited to maximum 10 Minute Presentation)
A. Protecting Loko Ea Queen’s Residence – Rae DeCoito, Executive Director, Mālama Loko Ea Foundation and Reyna Ramolete Hayashi, Aloha ʻĀina Project Manager, Trust for Public Land
B. Marconi Rd Environmental Issues – Angela Huntemer and Chis Tarski, Aloha Marconi Alliance
C. Wahiawa Hospital – Robin Kalohelani, Queens
VII. U.S. ARMY 8TH MILITARY POLICE BRIGADE and 25TH COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE
VIII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. January 23, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes
B. February 27, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes
IX. STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS: (Limited to three (3) Minutes Each)
A. State Senator Brenton Awa
B. State Representatives: Sean Quinlan and Amy Perruso
X. COMMITTEE REPORTS
A. Agriculture Committee – Chair Racquel Achiu
B. Health and Emergency Preparedness Committee – Chair Maka Casson-Fisher
C. Cesspool Committee – Chair Kathleen Pahinui
XI. BOARD MEMBER ATTENDANCE AT COMMUNITY MEETINGS / PUBLIC HEARINGS
XII. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Chair’s Correspondence – correspondence is emailed to board members.
B. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: Tuesday, May 28, 2024
C. Board Member Announcements
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160 Honolulu, Hawaii 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711; or call Neighborhood Assistant Zhoydell Magaoay at (808) 768-4224 or e-mail zhoydell.magaoay@honolulu.gov. Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.
All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160 Honolulu, Hawaii 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or send an email to zhoydell.magaoay@honolulu.gov at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. It may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.
DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2024
WAIALUA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA
7:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Pahinui called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. A quorum was established with 10 members present. Note – This 15-member Board requires eight (8) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.
Board Members Present: Deborah Aldrich, SharLyn Foo, Bob Leinau, Denise Antolini, Kathleen Pahinui, Racquel Achiu, Leif Anderson, Mark Clemente, Michael Lyons, and Maka Casson-Fisher.
Board Members Absent: Erica Lehmkuhl, Casi Alexander, Michael Biechler, Sash Fitzsimmons, and Blake McElheny.
Guests: Captain Brennen Stevens (Honolulu Fire Department); Corporal Shane Muna (Honolulu Police Department); Director Matt Gonser (Mayor Blangiardi’s Representative); Kelly Anaya (Councilmember Weyer’s Office); Samantha DeCorte (State Senator Brenton Awa’s Office); Representative Amy Perruso; Major Ryan Timmons (US Army); Michelle Cazimero, Rick Ames, Mike McElheny, Lynell DaMate, Frank Kimitch, Marsha Taylor, Richard Pezzulo, Chad Middleton (Hiʻipaka), Yukino Uchiyama, Jasmine Terame-Kaehuaea, Sharryl Matsumoto, John Salazar, Cora Sanches, Alan Lennard, Karen Gallagher, Sarah Cole, Eric Pachowicz, Joe Lancor, Rocky Rivera, Pam Rivera, Barbluke Boe, Ed Shanahan, Rex Shanahan (Guests/Residents); Zhoydell Magaoay (Neighborhood Commission Office). Name not included if not legible on sign-in sheet, not signed in, not stated for the record and/or not participated in discussion.
DECLARATION OF CONFLICTS BY BOARD MEMBERS – Leinau and Maka Casson-Fisher declared conflicts with the Waimea Valley as they both volunteers at Waimea Valley.
PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD): Captain Stevens reported the following.
January 2024 Statistics: There was one (1) structure fire, two (2) wildland/brush fires, two (2) activated alarms (no fire), 73 medical emergencies, two (2) mountain rescues, and one (1) ocean rescue.
Fire Safety Tip: Captain Stevens provided Don’t Stall, Call 911 safety tips. A copy of the report can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZRe_DGV6gEuiK_UxcKmGqYeDb8x0F_hh/view?usp=drive_link.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD): Corporal Muna reported the February 2024 crime statistics, which may be found at https://www.honolulupd.org/.
February 2024 Statistics: There was one (1) burglary, six (6) unauthorized entries to motor vehicle (UEMV), eight (8) assaults, and one (1) robbery.
Safety Tips: Corporal Muna provided defensive driving safety tips.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed. Legislative Bills: Lyons noted there was a bill before the Legislature relating to any shotgun with more than five (5) rounds of ammunition would not be legal. Lyons also noted you can buy two- and three-quarter inch round, you would take five (5), but if you use an inch and a quarter or an inch and a half round, an individual can put 20 rounds in the gun. Lyons noted another bill that would give citations for crime that has occurred such as domestic abuse. Lyons expressed his opposition to these bills.
Board of Water Supply (BWS): Chair Pahinui reported two (2) main breaks at Kamehameha Highway in Haleiwa and at 59-469 Pupukea Road. Chair Pahinui announced the $100 toilet rebate going on through April 18, 2024. Chair Pahinui provided responses to concerns raised from the previous meeting. Chair Pahinui noted for fire hydrant 47C2, some of the bollards are down and need to be replaced. Chair Pahinui also noted there was no issues to report for fire hydrant 46. Chair Pahinui further noted there were no bollards at all for fire hydrant 45 and raised concern about the hydrant being damaged. Chair Pahinui noted bollards are installed based on the history of the hydrant being hit and hydrant 45 does not meet this criterion. Chair Pahinui also noted BWS did a record search of the past six (6) years and the hydrant in question has not been hit while it is not designed to prevent damage to the hydrant; they are meant to make the hydrants more visible.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed. Maintenance: Andersen asked and Chair Pahinui responded that BWS is responsible for cleaning around the fire hydrant. Andersen noted the fire hydrant across the entrance to Haleiwa Beach Park.
RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
1. First Responder Center: Resident Karen Gallagher announced that there are a lot of people working really hard to get a first responder center at Sharks Cove. Gallagher provided stickers to promote the efforts and believed it is a great alternative to a shopping center. Cora Sanchez announced that 5,618 signed the petition to support the First Responder Center at Sharks Cove.
2. Land, Sea, Surf Sample Sale: Resident announced Land, Sea, Surf Sample Sale and Community Spring Clean on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Waialua High School. Resident also announced there will be a volleyball clinic on that day. They will have variety of surf and swim apparels from Billabong, Reef, Hawaii Swim Collective, etc.
3. Waialua High School Event Announcements: Student Activities Coordinator Cazimero reported successful February events. Cazimero announced graduation meetings will start in March, hosting Sagami Junior High School from Japan on March 14, 2024, election speeches, and Junior/Senior Prom on March 29, 2024 at Hawaii Prince Waikiki.
4. Shut Down Red Hill Resolution / World Water Day Event: Resident DaMate announced that all 33 Neighborhood Board on the island adopted the Resolution. DaMate also announced a get-together in honor of World Water Day is scheduled for Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Magic Island, Picnic Area 32 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. RSVP by March 13, 2024; contact Lynell DaMate or Chair Pahinui. DaMate noted that this is the first time in history that all Neighborhood Boards on the island stood together in solidarity for a very worthwhile resolution.
5. Park Maintenance: Cora Sanchez of Sunset Beach Coalition noted the Coalition and the City started trimming down some of the overgrowths at Haleiwa Beach Park Mauka.
Hearing no objections, Chair Pahinui took the agenda out of order.
U.S. ARMY 8TH MILITARY POLICE BRIGADE and 25TH COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADE: Major Ryan Timmons announced the next hiring fair is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at Mililani High School from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Advanced applications can go to: www.himwr.com. Major Timmons reported the training advisory, which can be found at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SaKJleL0FyfLIkKNJWQkSmBj7DTTm5G3/view?usp=drive_link. Major Timmons noted community concerns can be tracked through Neighborhood Board meetings, community concern hotline which is 808-787-1528, and through email at usag.hawaii.comrel@army.mil. Major Timmons noted there are no current updates regarding Drum Road other than what has been previously reported which are Drum Road is impassable currently due to weather effects, wash out, falling road edges, water crossing and debris falling. Major Timmons also noted the Army will host a talk story to inform and educate key stakeholders on the road, but a date is not yet determined. Major Timmons further noted that the Army is eager to join the conversation with Honolulu’s Emergency Management and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency because there are a total of seven (7) gates and landowners that all require permission and easements to work and continue the discussion around Drum Road.
STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS
Senator Brenton Awa: Samantha DeCorte reported that Senate Bill (SB) 2617 relating to preventing foreigners from purchasing land here in Hawaii was passed through committee, however it was amended to change into a study. DeCorte announced that the first crossover is scheduled in a couple of weeks and Senator Awa is currently drafting and working on resolutions which are due on Friday, March 8, 2024. DeCorte noted if there are anything that the Board would like to propose or have the Senator introduce to let their office know.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed.
1. House Bill (HB) 2248: Antolini noted the HB 2248 that Representative Quinlan introduced that is crossing over regarding the North Shore Beach Management Plan and Antolini requesting for the Senator to support it. DeCorte responded that she will look out for it.
2. Enforcement Concern: Lyons noted when he calls 911 for something on the beach, the police will say that he needs to call the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), however policemen on bicycles go in the Haleiwa Boat Harbor, which is on State property, start tagging for no registration and no safety check on vehicles, while the owners are out fishing trying to feed their families and the community. Lyons requested for the Senator to look into the complaints and set some definite boundaries regarding punishing fishermen when they are not even in their cars and out there catching food for everyone to eat.
Representative Sean Quinlan: No representative present and no report was submitted.
Representative Amy Perruso: Representative Perruso acknowledged Member Lyons’ concern regarding HPD. Representative Perruso noted that HB 601, which is designed to take a look at criminal justice reform which may address Member Lyons’ concerns. Representative Perruso also noted that there was actually a problem with drafting the bill and assured Member Lyon that the current language is not reasonable and the committees are planning to change it. Representative Perruso reported that SB 3316, which call for more pesticide reporting which is a companion to her Bill that she introduced will be crossing over to the House. Representative Perruso noted in a Senate Ways and Means (WAM) hearing, that it became apparent that the costs that we are going to be responsible for from the Maui wildfire are much deeper that anticipated, so the Legislature is struggling with what that will mean for the State budget right now and figuring out the different approaches to this serious fiscal problem. Representative Perruso also noted that any measures involving appropriations of additional positions are on hold while the Legislature is figuring out the budget.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed.
1. Wahiawa Hospital: Chair Pahinui requested a quick update on the Wahiawa Neighborhood Board meeting regarding the Wahiawa General Hospital. Chair Pahinui noted that she will be reaching out to them and ask them to come and present to the Neighborhood Board. Representative Perruso noted that neither Queen’s Hospital nor Wahiawa General is doing a decent job in terms of interacting with the people who are currently employed at the hospital and figuring out a pathway forward for them. Representative Perruso also noted that Queen’s and Wahiawa General have not been interacting with the unions at all and the fact that the unions have to come to a Neighborhood Board meeting to have that conversation is really troubling. Representative Perruso further noted that the two hospitals were saying a lot, but nothing substantive and it was really difficult to get both hospitals to commit in writing. Representative Perruso in her opinion, the hospitals have not mapped out the needs of the community and they do not understand the vacuum that they are creating, especially if the hospital is going to reduce down to just an emergency room.
2. Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) Bailout: Casson-Fisher inquired about the status of the Legislature bailing out HECO and what effects that could have upon the residents. Representative Perruso responded that it is still in conversation and noted that the House Chair on Energy and Environmental Protection is asking similarly pointed questions about that. Representative Perruso also noted that there is a consensus that it is not really fair for the State to bail out a private entity. Representative Perruso further noted that she cannot predict where that conversation is going to end because there are so many different layers of liability involved in the Maui wildfire and there are also ramifications if HECO fails. Chair Pahinui requested for the Representative to keep the Board updated on that issue.
3. Poison: Leinau inquired about the poison used to kill off rhinoceros beetles are also killing the bees when the bees go to pollinate the tree flowers. Representative Perruso responded that she has not heard about that claim, however she did ask about the nature of the materials that the State were using. Representative Perruso will follow up on the concern and provide a response at the next meeting.
4. Legislation: Kimitch asked what is the Representative’s position on the bill that would give all the Department of Education (HDOE) public school students free meals. Representative Perruso responded that she supports the universal school meals because she has seen the impact of hunger on student learning, however, given the fiscal situation we are in, the bill is dead. Representative Perruso noted the State does not have the means to support that legislation.
5. Teacher Pay Cut: Kimitch asked what the Representative think the chances are of teachers taking a pay cut due to the budget situation. Representative Perruso responded that furloughs are one of her deepest concerns because leaders of the money committees are asking the departments to come back to those committees with budgets with 10 to 15 percent cut from the base. Representative Perruso noted that the base pay for HDOE and the University of Hawaii were not restored from last session, so their base is already skeletal and nonfunctional. Representative Perruso also noted that once the State start to cut the services and starve the State government even more will hurt people and communities. Representative Perruso further noted that the State have different strategies that the State can deploy such as the $1.5 Billion in the Rainy-Day Fund and $500 Million in the Hurricane Relief Fund and do not necessarily have to go straight to cutting the departments’ budgets.
6. Property Insurance Rate: Kimitch asked if the Representative thinks insurance rates should double in part due to the Maui wildfires. Representative Perruso responded that it is not so much about insurance companies should or should not increase the rates; Representative Perruso think the risk levels have increased so much that it is happening. Representative Perruso noted insurance companies are quadrupling on condominium associations and doubling on private properties. Representative Perruso also noted that Speaker Saiki is having a town hall in his community and bringing in financial experts to talk about what is happening and what property owners can do in response.
BOARD BUSINESS
Moving March 26, 2024 North Shore NB #27 meeting to April 23, 2024 due to Prince Kuhio Day holiday:
Antolini MOVED and Leinau SECONDED to Recess in March and meet on April 23, 2024. Discussions followed. Casson-Fisher noted Prince Kuhio was an example of civic leadership and encouraged everyone to get involved and learn a little bit more about the Prince. Hearing no further discussions, the Board conducted a voice vote, 10-0-0 (Aye: Aldrich, Foo, Leinau, Antolini, Pahinui, Achiu, Anderson, Clemente, Lyons, and Casson-Fisher; Nay: None; Abstain: None). The motion was adopted.
7:38 p.m. Chair Pahinui passed the gavel to Vice Chair Achiu.
Cesspool Committee Update: Chair Pahinui noted at the January 2024 Board meeting, the Board voted to support a bill that Representative Perruso had brought to the Board’s attention. Chair Pahinui announced that the bill is dead and it didn’t go anywhere, however there is another bill for a study. Chair Pahinui noted back in 2012 the Board approved a master plan for Waste Management for the North Shore, which can be found on the City’s Environmental Services (ENV) website, under planning resources. Chair Pahinui also noted that she requested that Councilmember Weyer put money in the budget to update the study and look at Haleiwa Town to do the feasibility study.
7:41 p.m. Vice Chair Achiu returned the gavel back to Chair Pahinui.
Clemente MOVED and Andersen SECONDED to request for Councilmember Weyer to put money into City Council Budget to update the current North Shore Waste Management Plan and do a Feasibility Study for the town of Haleiwa. Hearing no discussions, the Board conducted a voice vote, 10-0-0 (Aye: Aldrich, Foo, Leinau, Antolini, Pahinui, Achiu, Anderson, Clemente, Lyons, and Casson-Fisher; Nay: None; Abstain: None). The motion was adopted.
Waimea Valley Hi’ipaka LLC and EDA Capital Improvements Project Updates: Richard Pezzulo, Chad Middleton, and Jasmine Teramae presented project updates. Pezzulo noted Hi’ipaka was awarded a $3.75 million grant by U.S. Economic Development Administration for capital improvements at Waimea Valley. Pezzulo also noted that the project includes various improvements at the Valley to enhance community economic resilience, improve visitor experience, upgrade deteriorated infrastructure, and improve safety in the Valley. The EDA Grant will create a Hawaiian educational site at Pu’ukua including an agro-forestry garden and traditional Hawaiian hale, renovate the library area to create a Resource Center for contract artisans and docents, expand the women’s bathrooms and build new men’s bathroom at the Visitor Center, expand the square footage of the Gift Shop to add a cultural walk to communicate the cultural significance Waimea Valley to visitors when they enter, expand and enhance the site of the Luau, extend the Pavilion to accommodate up to 350 guests, kitchen and bar improvements, and lighting and sound upgrade. Pezzulo also noted over the next 12 months the permitting process will take place, draft EA is being reviewed, and construction expected to begin in late 2025. Teramae presented the traffic assessment study that was conducted to look at how the proposed project will impact traffic in the surrounding area. Teramae noted the traffic study started with looking at the existing conditions on the intersection of Kamehameha Highway and Waimea Valley Road. The study looked at three (3) different analysis periods – midday peak, p.m. peak, and a Saturday peak. Teramae noted they collected data in July and November to represent peak summer month and off peak month. Teramae also noted the study then looked at the project impacts and finally make recommendations of any mitigation measures as needed. A copy of the presentation can be found at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YLFtZwjksK8xHGyjN4BUMGiRy0qGQNye/view?usp=drive_link.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed.
1. Signage: Casson-Fisher requested to revisit the spelling of Waialua on the signage, paintings, and posters.
2. Parking Arrangement: Foo asked and Pezzulo responded that there is no special arrangement with the parking at Waimea Bay. Pezzulo noted that they got approval from the Department of Natural Resources (DLNR) in 2008 when the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) first acquired the Valley and were struggling financially, so the approval was to be able to have paid parking upfront to generate some revenue.
3. Septic Tank: Foo asked and Pezzulo responded that he brought up the septic tank as a concern that was raised and there is this assumption that the parking that the septic system there in the bathrooms were built was to accommodate the number of cars that could fit there, but he is not sure if that is true or not.
4. Crosswalk: Foo asked and Teramae responded that they would have to look at the site distance along the roadway depending on the exact placement over the crosswalk with land. Teramae noted that there is still some feasibility studies that need to be done to make sure that would be okay. Aldrich suggested using under the bridge as some kind of a crosswalk situation that would keep the traffic flowing. Teramae noted that it is a possibility to use under the bridge, but need to evaluate the comfort and safety for the pedestrians.
5. Acknowledgement: Antolini acknowledged the presenters for a clear presentation and for setting the standards. Antolini noted the beach parking lots are kind of the trigger for a lot of problems that are unnecessarily distracting from what the project is trying to do.
6. Trolley Service: Resident Pam Rivera noted if the project continue with the parking, Rivera suggested using a trolley service during certain hours so no pedestrians will need to cross. Pezzulo noted that it is certainly something they will consider. Pezzulo also noted that Representative Quinlan is looking at some kind of solution in general with parking and shuttle system. Pezzulo further noted that the Valley is prepared to be a part of that program.
7. Traffic: Resident DaMate suggested working with Hawaii Tourism Authority to come up with some plan if the visitors are going to be coming out to the falls, hike, swim at the beach to have them catch the bus because if the project is going to be expanding the luau to include additional 150 guests there will be quite a few more cars on the highways in North Shore. DaMate noted to think a little bit outside the box and work with different people to try to turn down the traffic a little bit more and accommodate the visitors which seems to be the major impetus for all of the enhancement and improvement.
8. Pathway: Resident Sarah Cole noted that the bus stop is the logical place for people to want to walk across the highway. Cole suggested using the footbridge that the visitors would be going to and from. Teramae responded that Waimea Valley Road and Kamehameha Highway is a legal intersection and so pedestrians are allowed to cross at the intersections even though it is not a marked crosswalk.
9. Highway Resurfacing: Cole asked if anybody conferred when, if ever that part of the highway is going to be resurfaced because if that is going to happen, the project would be working around that.
10. Beach Parking: Resident Karen Gallagher raised concerns about the beach parking being out of control. Gallagher expressed her opposition to the traffic light, but supports the shuttle system. Gallagher suggested having their employees help the people cross safely using flags to get drivers attention.
11. Repaving Projects: Chair Pahinui noted that the State Department of Transportation (HDOT) have two (2) paving projects that are on the books and will report back to the Board after a discussion with the design team. Chair Pahinui also noted that no project timeframe was given for these projects.
12. Business Incubator: Resident Frank Kimitch asked if the organization is in charge of the business incubator there at the Valley. Kimitch also asked for the economic impact so far in the community from those businesses that the organization have incubated. Pezzulo responded that the business incubator started last year from the Administration for Native Americans grant and just completed year-one with 18-19 graduates and most are doing really well. Pezzulo noted that a second cohort just started in January 2024 with another 18-19 participants. Pezzulo will provide a written report of the program to Chair Pahinui.
13. Traffic Study: Kimitch asked with the idea of putting in a stoplight, did the study only look at the traffic in and out of the Valley or did it include the traffic up and down Kamehameha Highway and what the consequences of a traffic light might be where people traveling North and South for miles. Teramae responded that she understands that putting a signal do have repercussions for the rest of Kamehameha Highway and that is partially why she pointed out that queue from Laniakea Beach is really what the bottleneck is and it is not necessarily our study intersection. Teramae noted that the traffic signal would help with organizing the pedestrians and having them cross in herds and giving the pedestrians, a controlled crossing across the highway which pushed them to look into the signal to give the pedestrians the opportunity to cross safely.
14. Transportation Services: Clemente raised concerns about people drinking alcohol at the luau and driving afterwards. Clemente suggested some sort of transportation services to and from the Valley.
Haleiwa Backyard LLC Informational Update: Joe Lancor noted the project was delayed by Covid and now have begun again. The project is a 7.5-acre project on the makai side of the Joseph Leong Bypass. The current state of the drawings contains 156 one- and two-story rental apartment buildings, neighborhood commercial and service businesses. Lancor noted that the goal is to make it a walking community to go to the backside of Haleiwa Town and provide work and employment for the people. Lancor also noted that they are beginning their permitting process with the City and State for boundary adjustments and zone change. Lancor further noted the purpose of presenting an update is to get feedback from the Board and the community because nothing is set in stone yet and that they are all just paper drawings and can be adjusted. Lancor noted that he will return to do a proper presentation and is here to get input first from the community so that it could be incorporated, seen, and discussed by the developers. Lancor noted the main point of giving an update is to tell the Board and the community that the project is moving forward.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed.
1. Comments: Chair Pahinui noted that it is hard to make a comment on something that the Board have not seen in nine (9) years. Chair Pahinui also noted that an Environmental Assessment (EA) was done in 2016 and she has not seen any plans in a long time, therefore hard to provide feedbacks.
2. Project Plans: Casson-Fisher noted that he looked online at the North Shore Chamber of Commerce website, found the plan there, and recommended that the plan need to be revisited. Casson-Fisher also noted that he would have liked to see a visual presentation.
3. Concern: Andersen raised concerns regarding this project will be handled similar to the other projects that the developer has done, specifically for not having the proper permits and mishandling of possible artifacts.
4. Presentation: Achiu noted that she looks forward to a future detailed presentation that includes visuals and details to how the project can support he community. Lancor responded that the North Shore Sustainable Community Plan was their guide in trying to design the project and in doing so it becomes clear that what is needed is one- and two-story rental apartments. Lancor noted that this will allow housing that is rational and needed.
5. Zoning: Achiu raised concerns with the zoning as it was somewhat misrepresented the first time the project was presented in 2016. Achiu requested for the actual zone change that the project desire. Achiu asked, if not able to zone change, is there is a project that the developer can do that supports the community with the zoning remaining as it is and getting input from the community on how to do that because whatever the developer do will also require a waste management system. Lancor responded that the zone desired is based on the North Shore Sustainable Community Plan is A-1 for the apartments and B-1 for the neighborhood commercial that supports it. Achiu noted that the North Shore Sustainable Community Plan is currently being updated and suggested that should be reviewed as well. Lancor responded that the draft of the North Shore Sustainable Community Plan is supposedly is advertised to be coming out soon.
6. Housing: Lyons expressed its supports affordable housing for people that desperately needs it to get them off the road from traveling long distances. Lyons raised concerns regarding the location of the ingress and egress.
7. Project Location: Aldrich inquired about the location of the property. Lancor responded that when the bypass was built, a large swath of narrow, irregular boundary land was left between the Mauka side of the commercial part of Haleiwa Town and the Makai side of the Joseph Leong Bypass.
8. Traffic Study: Resident Rick Ames asked if traffic studies have been done already for the project.
9. Infrastructure: Ames raised concerns about the current infrastructure not being able to support another project unless the City can develop the infrastructure that the community needs like improved sidewalks, crosswalks, parking, etc. Ames asked if the developers have started the conversation with the City regarding improving the current infrastructures. Lancor responded that the next processes are to be working with all of the agencies that they have worked with before and try to figure out how the developers can make things better as they go forward with the project. Lancor noted that the developers will be trying to find out and identify what all the problems are and then see if they can come up with solutions and fix them. Chair Pahinui reiterated that the current infrastructure cannot support a 156 one-and two-story building.
10. Housing Quality: Leinau noted that the quality of the construction is really important. Leinau inquired about who is responsible for maintaining the property to make sure that the units are okay and well maintained. Lancor responded that the current set of codes have been so intense in the last few years that it is impossible to meet all of them. Lancor noted that the requirements are so strong that the quality of the building for a wind resistance and general durability are addressed in the current international building codes that they have adopted into this project. Chair Pahinui raised concerns regarding keeping the property well maintained.
11. Environmental Assessment: Chair Pahinui noted that an eight- or nine-year old Environmental Assessment is not acceptable. Chair Pahinui recommended that the developers redo the assessment.
12. Housing: Chair Pahinui asked how much more affordable rental housing does North Shore need as another 300-unit project is slated at Mill Camp.
13. Summary: Clemente suggested bringing a summary page of the project to present rather than having Board members and the public search online to find out the details of what everyone really talking about.
14. Affordable Housing: Resident Gallagher asked if there is a way to ensure that the affordable units would only be available for residents in this community or would it be open for people from the mainland and everywhere else to come and increase the population.
15. Rental Fees: Resident Kimitch inquired about the estimated costs to rent the different size units and the income qualifications for affordable housing. Lancor responded that he never said affordable. Clemente noted the final Environmental Assessment says affordable. Lancor responded that there is an element of affordable required of all projects by law.
16. Rural Community: Resident Larry McElhenny raised concerns about developers that continue to refer to the Sustainable Communities Plan but cherry pick sections of the Plan that supports their proposal and disregard the foundational vision that this community has had. McMillan noted that the main concern of the residents is that this area stays rural.
17. Carrying Capacity: McElhenny noted the carrying capacity of the district has already been exceeded. McMillan requested the project plan address the carrying capacity issue.
Casson-Fisher MOVED and Antolini SECONDED that the project is in compliance with the new and updated version of the North Shore Sustainable Community Plan and addresses all of the input, comments, and concerns raised at the meeting. Discussions followed. Lancor raised concerns regarding not having enough time to make a proper presentation due to not having access to the updated North Shore Sustainability Community Plan. Chair Pahinui noted that the Board is totally okay with giving the developers more time to work on their presentation. Pahinui will draft a letter containing the comments and concerns raised at the meeting to DPP.
18. Concerns: Resident Rex Shanahan noted the last project that Andy Anderson did in the community where he did not follow the rules and capacity, as a result the sewage spilled into the pond behind the restaurant. Shanahan also noted the sign on the beach house has never been permitted. Shanahan raised concern with how can the community trust the Anderson family because of the other issues that have come up before the community.
19. Thoroughness: Achiu noted the project end result has always been different with what every developer has presented to the Board. Achiu requested the developers be thorough with their research, their intent, their presentation, and to find a way to make the community benefit from any project. Achiu also noted that without the community support, it is really hard for the project to survive.
20. Affordable Housing: Clemente responded to Lancor’s comment of the project not being affordable housing. Clemente read page 10 of the final Environmental Assessment indicating that the project will be financed as 100 percent affordable rental project and there is an expectation that use of any financing for affordable housing will involve conditions limiting who can qualify to rent or buy and other terms, intended to precent the improver rental or sale of units. Lancor responded that he likes to design a project that is a combination of having something that is enduring and something everyone is proud of and happy to enjoy and there is the affordable “modern ghetto” that he does not like being forced into. Clemente noted that Lancor’s comment about affordable housing being “modern ghetto” as offensive.
21. Final Environmental Assessment (FEA) Concerns: Antolini suggested that the FEA needs to be updated because the community and the environment has changed substantially since 2016. Antolini noted the Supreme Court case regarding the Turtle Bay decision from keeping the North Shore country. Antolini also noted one of the alternatives that needs to be examined, as the project go forward is using the existing agriculture zoning which is not in the FEA. Antolini further noted the wastewater package system is proposed to be off site in order to serve the development because the area is a no pass zone. Lancor responded that the wastewater treatment system is part of the study that is going on now. Antolini noted the linkages and road systems in the area is very unclear in the FEA and need to be clarified because of the cumulative impact on the community.
Chair Pahinui noted that should the Board approve the motion, the Chair will send a letter to the Department of Planning & Permitting (DPP) stating what the Board wants. Hearing no further discussions, the Board conducted a roll call vote, 10-0-0 (Aye: Aldrich, Foo, Leinau, Antolini, Pahinui, Achiu, Anderson, Clemente, Lyons, and Casson-Fisher; Nay: None; Abstain: None). The motion was adopted.
CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS
Councilmember Matt Weyer: Kelly Anaya provided the report which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QPKQvLky-r9se9El6r1oHvMTd7lgwg4y/view?usp=drive_link. Anaya reported that Councilmember Weyer did do a homeless information briefing at his Housing, Sustainability and Health Committee. Anaya provided an update on the request regarding speeding in front of Waialua Elementary School. Anaya noted the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) just concluded their traffic study and recommending installation of speed tables. Anaya also noted that DTS will be asking the State Department of Transportation (HDOT) for assistance to get that implemented and no timeline was provided. Anaya further noted DTS found that the sign and pavement markings are in need of maintenance, so a work order has been issued and no timeline has been provided. Anaya will provide updates regarding the Haleiwa Town painting and crosswalk restriping on Haleiwa Road. Anaya will forward the written responses to concerns raised at previous meetings to Chair Pahinui.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed. Hospital: Leinau requested for the Councilmember Weyer’s office to encourage Queen’s Hospital to provide more community input regarding the takeover of Wahiawa General Hospital. Chair Pahinui noted that it would be great to know if there are any government, whether City or State regulations that the private entities need to comply to.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative: Director Matt Gonser provided the report which can be found at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ixsy994apw-9H6ZQDdUu139XnaSh1_UW/view?usp=drive_link. Director Gonser reminded the public to subscribe to the Mayor’s Newsletter. More information can be found at: https://www.oneoahu.org. Director Gonser reported follow up responses to questions raised at the last meeting and was available to take additional questions.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed.
1. Drainage Ditch: (Community Concern Form) A Waialua/Haleiwa resident noted at Farrington Highway, Mauka heading towards Mokuleia, just past Waialua High School, church, yellow gate; the drainage ditch approximately 4-5 feet deep, water is not flowing causing flooding in the past, damaging homes. Resident also noted it is not safe and need maintenance, culvert’s not to code. Resident inquired if the ditch requires guard rails. Resident raised concern with mosquito infestation after it rains, cars have unexpectedly driven into the ditch. It is not safe for bike riders. Resident suggested maybe markers and/or guard rails could help.
2. Short Term Rental: Foo requested for DPP enforcement stats on illegal short-term rentals.
3. Ocean Safety Positions: Achiu requested the status on the hiring of ocean safety positions and where the positions are. Achiu noted that it is budget season and the Department of Emergency Services (HESD) will be asking for more money. Achiu inquired about what the budget request for because they did not use the money that was given to them last year. Director Gonser responded that the process has not yet concluded, but they are near final, towards a recommendation. Director Gonser announced that the first hearing will be Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
4. Ocean Safety Department: Achiu asked for the Mayor’s position regarding Resolution 2450 relating to the establishment of a Department of Ocean Safety to be their own department, does he support it? Antolini noted the Mayor is not clear of his position and urged the Mayor to support the Resolution.
5. Task Force Results: Achiu asked if there’s any type of findings from the committee or task force that the Department created. Achiu noted whatever task force they claim they made, those finding are supposed to support the Resolution.
6. Bus Stop Trash Cans: Resident Karen Gallagher noted the trash cans always overflowing at two (2) bus stops by Surf N Sea in Haleiwa and Foodland in Pupukea. Gallagher requested those trash cans be emptied more regularly or put twice the amount of trash cans because it is disgusting and it is overflowing almost every day. Chair Pahinui noted those are heavily used bus stops. Chair Pahinui also noted the trash can by the courthouse is also overflowing. Director Gonser requested that the bus stop number be provided if available.
7. Zoning Conversion: Resident Kimitch asked how often does agriculture land gets converted to high density housing.
8. “Very Important Agriculture Land”: A resident on Haleiwa Beach Road noted she was told years ago that her land has been deemed very important agriculture land and not allowed to rezone out of Agriculture land. The resident requested clarification how a project can go from Agriculture land to housing. Director Gonser noted the City’s endeavor to comply with State law to identify and designate important agriculture lands was halted in the decision of the Land Use Commission.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes: Data Report: Deferred to the next meeting.
COMMITTEE REPORTS: Deferred to the next meeting.
BOARD MEMBER ATTENDANCE AT COMMUNITY MEETINGS / PUBLIC HEARINGS: Deferred to the next meeting.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
1. Next Regular Scheduled Meeting: Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:24 p.m.
Submitted by: Zhoydell Magaoay, Neighborhood Assistant
Reviewed by: Lindon Valenciano, Public Relations Assistant
Finalized By: Chair Kathleen Pahinui
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