Community website by MBC/Ernest Abrams. Call 808-739-9797 for advertising/sponsorship
Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii
News Item- Powered by MBC NewsMaker
Ala Moana-Kakaako Neighborhood Board Meeting February 2019 Minutes
- Tweet
DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2019
MAKIKI CHRISTIAN CHURCH
CALL TO ORDER - Chair Ryan Tam called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Quorum was established with eight (8) members present. Note - This nine (9)-member Board requires five (5) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action. Chair Tam welcomed attendees to the February 2019 regular monthly meeting of the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 and explained that the Neighborhood Board system was established to promote citizen participation in the government's decision-making process.
Board Members Present - William Ammons, Rodney Chang, Michael Zehner, Ryan Tam, Jayne Cloutier (departed at 9:01 p.m.), Susan Oppie, Chris Chung, and Ron Komine.
Board Members Absent - Lynn Mariano.
Vacancies - There were no vacancies.
Guests - Cindy McMillian (Governor David Ige's Representative, Communication Director), Senator Sharon Moriwaki and Charles Izumoto (Senator Sharon Moriwaki's Office), James Stone (House Speaker Scott Saiki's Office), Representative Tom Brower and staff member (Representative Tom Bower's Office); Deputy Director Ian Santee (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative, Honolulu Emergency Services Department); Councilmember Ann Kobayashi), Kenny Amazaki (Councilmember Michael Formby's Office) Acting Captain Casey Ferreira (Honolulu Fire Department, P wa a Station); Lieutenant James Ferrell and Sergeant Wyllie Lum (Honolulu Police Department, District 1); Nicole Smith, Rebecca Price, Brian Bagnall (Outdoor Circle), James Kramer, Dave Watase, Pat Lee (Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation), Jeff Carbaugh (Hawai i Convention Center), Teri Skillman, Ronald Higa (Liliha/Pu unui/ lewa/Kamehameha Heights Neighborhood Board No. 14), G. Toba, Dexter Okada, Ed Sugimoto (Noodle Fest), Monico and Russell Ryan (Collection), Daniel Simonich, Lauren Martinez (Integrated Multimedia Consultants), and K. Russell Ho (Neighborhood Commission Office).
PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) P wa a Station - Acting Captain Casey Ferreira reported the following:
• January 2019 Fire Statistics - There were 3 structure fires, 2 nuisance fires, and 20 activated alarms (no fires); 203 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian, 2 motor vehicle crashes/collisions, and 4 hazardous materials incidents.
• Fire Safety Tip: The Honolulu Fire Department reminds the public to call 911 first for an emergency. Do not drive to a fire station, as a fire company may be responding to another emergency. When you call 911, inform the operator if you need police, fire, or ambulance. After you have been transferred to the appropriate agency, give an accurate description of your emergency, address, and location. The operator will dispatch the closest available fire company to your emergency.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD), District 1 - Lieutenant James Ferrell reported the following:
• January 2019/December 2018 Statistics - There were 13/19 motor vehicle thefts, 8/15 burglaries, 132/123 thefts, 60/32 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMV) or break-ins, 19/14 assaults, 2/2 sex assaults, 6/2 graffiti incidents, and 17/12 drug offenses. There were 7,577/7,427 calls for service. Statistical information can be found on the HPD public website at: www.honolulupd.org.
• Safety Tip: Burglary Prevention - By far, the most common threat to our home is burglary. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs somewhere in the United States every 15 seconds. By definition, the crime of burglary is when a suspect enters a residence or dwelling and commits a crime or offense. This crime usually occurs when we are not home.
Here are tips to "harden" your residence to prevent burglaries.
o Doors and Locks - Use a solid core or metal door for all entrance points
o Sliding-Glass Patio Doors are secured with a secondary lock
o Use highly visible alarm decals, beware of dog decals or security watch decal, these have been proven effective with suspects.
o Windows - Make sure someone cannot reach through an open window and unlock the door
o Use anti-lift devices to prevent window from being lifted out
o Be a Good Neighbor - Good neighbors should look out for each other. Get to know your neighbors on each side of your home and the three (3) directly across the street. See something say something!
o Place valuables in a safe and mark for identification, take pictures of items and catalog your valuables. Secure other valuables, such as social security cards, passports, and driver's license in a secure area.
• Community Policing Team - For people interested in the Neighborhood Security Watch (NSW), call 529-3691.
Comments followed:
1. Broken/Damaged Parking Meters - Chang reported that on Liona and Ahana Streets, damaged parking meters were removed and he asked about HPD enforcement. Lieutenant Ferrell responded that the HPD can enforce after the parking meters were replaced and suggested reporting the damaged parking meters to the City.
2. Pi ikoi Street/Ala Moana Boulevard Corner - Komine requested that HPD monitor speeding on Ala Moana Boulevard. Also, drivers making a left turn from Foodland in the Ala Moana Center onto Pi ikoi Street, going makai, may hit slow-moving pedestrians. Komine asked if the timing to cross could be increased. Lieutenant Ferrell suggested contacting the City.
3. Noise - Resident Nicole Smith lives in a high-rise and complained about the noise from Hawaiian Brian's establishment. After contacting the Honolulu Liquor Commission, a citation was issued. However, the noise continues. Lieutenant Ferrell suggested that what patrons do on private property is up to the private property owners. HPD cannot enforce "loitering," unless they can witness a crime being committed. Lieutenant Ferrell suggested calling 911.
PRESENTATIONS
Noodle Fest - Toby Tamaye announced the second annual noodle festival to be held on Saturday, March 30, 2019 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Auahi Street. They also do the Rice Fest. There will be music and eating contests, and it is a partnership with the Ward Village people.
Kamehameha Canoe Club - Teri Skillman of the Kamehameha Canoe Club announced a 2019 recruitment and registration drive for new members on Saturday, March 16, 2019 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. They meet at the Ala Wai Community Center at the Kapi olani Boulevard/McCully Street Bridge and have yellow canoes with red trim. There are flyers in the back. They welcome paddlers from age 10 to 70. The Regatta season runs from June 2019 to August 2019. The whales, turtles, and dolphins swim alongside.
Ala Wai Canal Centennial - Sean Connelly at www.alawaicentennial.org had alternate comments about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Ala Wai Canal Project, which has two (2) parts - the detention basins up stream and the wall around Waik k . Connelly noted that the wall would not stop the storm water from entering the Ala Wai Canal. He proposed a Kalia Dam, a pump and locks system to deal with sea level rise, for example, the Charles River Dam in Boston, another USACE project. As to the Ala Wai Canal Centennial, 2021 will mark the 100th year of the Ala Wai Canal and Connelly is planning activities. Senator Sharon Moriwaki wanted clarification of today's Senate Ways and Means Committee (WAM) hearing and last month's presentation by David Watase, who was next on the agenda. Connelly noted that WAM passed Senate Bill (SB) 77 to move the funding forward for dredging and cleaning. Brian Bagnall mentioned that the USACE project was concerned about flooding from a 100-year storm, but does not take into consideration sea level rise, tsunamis, or hurricanes, which are more likely to happen and he supports these alternatives.
Ala Wai Canal Project - Dave Watase at http://www.stopalawaiproject.com liked Connelly's website, as he had the original documents and maps. Watase was looking at the New Orleans model for flood gates or Connelly's idea for locks at the Panama Canal. Congress recently approved $345 million and the Legislature has sent Senate Bill (SB) 77 and the $125 million in State matching funds to the House. The M noa Neighborhood Board No. 7, Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board No. 5, and P lolo Neighborhood Board No. 6 have passed resolutions in support of delaying funding until more public input is given. Another flood mitigation idea is to convert the Ala Wai Golf Course into an ahupua a, like before the development of Waikiki. Properties in Makiki and schools would be also adversely affected. The USACE changed the plans without giving the public proper notification about the upstream detention basins. Watase had maps and pictures, which were grossly exaggerated. Watase is a major stakeholder, as his property would be taken. He asked for a resolution of support. Watase mentioned that the USACE did not follow the rules and Iolani School point out the failures of the process. Chair Tam said a resolution will be discussed on the agenda later.
Waimanu/Queen Street Roundabout - A representative from Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) described the roundabout design. He showed the progress of the rail project from the west side to Halawa, which is 70% complete. The final segment involves the City Center Utility Relocation (CCUR) through to Ala Moana Center. Then, the P3, public private partnership, will finish the job. The roundabout would be a "traffic-calming" device, which would narrow the roads into a one (1)-lane traffic, which may be a problem during rush hour. The roundabout design was coordinated with City agencies of Department of Transportation Services (DTS) and Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) and is consistent with the City's Complete Streets and Vision Zero policies. The roundabout will improve pedestrian safety.
Comments followed:
1. Condominium Drive Way - Komine was concerned about the condo driveway at the roundabout. The representative will follow up if the property manager was consulted. More discussion was needed. Komine had doubts if the representative drove the area. The representative had ridden his bicycle there.
2. Other Concerns - Concerns were raised about parks in the area, traffic flows, and left turn safety. Stop lights were not considered.
3. Sea Level Rise - Representative Tom Brower was concerned about sea level rising three and one-half (3 1/2) feet by 2050. The representative will find out what HART has done about sea level rise and effect on the infrastructure.
4. Disclosure - Chair Tam disclosed that he works for HART.
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative - Deputy Director Ian Santee, Honolulu Emergency Services Department (HESD) reported the following 11 questions and answers:
• Status of the Pedestrian Island at Kapi olani Boulevard and Sheridan Street - Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM): The City has not received delivery of the necessary curb/delineator system. As soon as the curb/delineator system is received, installation of the pedestrian island improvements will proceed. Current start of installation is estimated to be by end of March 2019.
• Sidewalk on Kapi olani Boulevard - DFM does not have any further comments to offer on this sidewalk work involving a private contractor. Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP): Intersection of Kapiolani Boulevard and Sheridan Street. On Tuesday, February 5, 2019, a site inspection at the intersection of Kapiolani Boulevard and Sheridan Street revealed there were no sidewalk closures or ongoing construction/repair to the sidewalk/curb ramps. It appears repair work to the public right-of-ways have been completed. There were no visible obstructions or immediate repairs needed to the sidewalks and curb ramps at the time of inspection. There were also no building violations.
• Vision Zero - DTS applied for Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) funding to produce a Vision Zero Action Plan and presented to the Citizen's Advisory Committee (CAC) in February 2019.
• Pedestrian Safety - A Board member reported that the most accidents in the U.S. occurred around the Ala Moana Center. There are no updates from DTS. A follow up on Ala Moana Boulevard is under the purview of the State of Hawaii Department of Transportation.
• Inclusive Destination Playground - Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) had no comments. Please re-assign to Department of Design and Construction (DDC) and/or Office of Climate Change, Sustainability & Resiliency.
• Liquor Commission - How can the Neighborhood Boards lobby the Liquor Commission to limit the number of licenses, so that Ala Moana/Kaka ako does not end up like Chinatown and Waik k ? The Commission has not established maximum numbers of licenses in any particular class for any area, as authorized by our Rule 3-81-17(a). This notwithstanding, for each application the Commission receives "license density" information for the type of application being applied for: how many licenses of the same class/kind/category within 500 feet of the proposed premises, and within all of Honolulu County. In this fashion, the Commission exercises its discretion to determine whether a particular area has "license density" that might negatively impact the neighborhood an applicant proposes to enter as a liquor-licensed establishment, and also whether the existing "license density" might make it unlikely for an applicant to operate with reasonable commercial success. This Commission discretion is also aided by the public notice requirements that requires the applicant to mail notice of its application to registered voters, owners/lessees, and small businesses within 500 feet of the proposed premises. Any comment or protest received from the notice recipients and the relevant neighborhood board is provided to the Commission for its consideration.
• Homeless - Does the pilot project of the closing of the parks at nights increase the number of homeless "wandering" into neighborhoods? What can the Neighborhood Security Watches do? DPR is not aware of what the direct impact is or could be. Please redirect the first question to the Office of Housing for comments; please redirect the second question regarding Neighborhood Security Watches to the Honolulu Police Department. HPD: District 1 (Central Honolulu) officers reported that they have noticed homeless people in the residential or commercial areas neighboring the affected parks after the pilot program started. Officers have conducted checks on these neighboring areas and issued one citation for prohibited structures on the sidewalk. The officers will continue to make periodic checks of these areas. The Neighborhood Security Watches should still conduct their patrols and report any suspicious activity or issues to their contact at the Honolulu Police Department.
• Illegal Parking ??? Illegal parking on Auahi Street, and side streets between South Street and Cooke Street - Is there enforcement after 6:00 p.m./7:00 p.m. daily and on weekends? HPD: District 1 (Central Honolulu) officers make periodic checks during their shifts for parking violations along Auahi Street. Should your constituent observe any violations please have them contact 911 and an officer or parking violations clerk can be dispatched to address the issue in a timely manner.
• City Street Sign Storage Facility on Auahi Street between Cooke Street and Ward Avenue - Can the facility be relocated and a four (4)-way stop or a traffic signal installed? DFM: The City has plans to relocate the Contraflow Coning yard that is located in a road remnant in the vicinity of Auahi Street between Kamani Street and Koula Street that will allow development of Auahi Street as a connector road for traffic from the Ward Avenue area to South Street. Upon completion of the relocation of the existing City facilities located in the road remnant, appropriate traffic improvements will be incorporated as part of the Auahi Street development.
• Ala Wai Canal - A resident is trying to stop the Ala Wai Canal project for flood mitigation by presenting to the many Neighborhood Boards, like M noa, P lolo, Kaimuki, Diamond Head, Waik k , Ala Moana/Kaka ako. Is the DPP aware of this project and the detention basins? DPP: Yes, the Department of Planning and Permitting is aware of this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project.
• Announcements - Deputy Director Santee mentioned the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) Quarterly Newsletter and the increased parking fees (a two (2)-tier pricing) for downtown and Waik k .
• Unused Bus Stop on Pi ikoi Street and Park Lane - Komine mentioned that an unused bus stop was attracting homeless. Deputy Director Santee will follow up with DTS to contact Oahu Transit Services, Inc. (OTS). Komine thanked Deputy Director Santee for following up every month on the numerous concerns of the Neighborhood Board. Deputy Director Santee acknowledged that it was a team effort of the entire City Team.
• Parking Spaces and Other Concerns - Chang mentioned that parking meters were removed on Liona Street and Ahana Street and abandoned vehicles are taking up the spaces. Deputy Director Santee suggested reporting abandoned vehicles to 768-2530. The City Pothole Report Line is at 768-7777. Deputy Director Santee will follow up on the phone number for street lighting, painting of black lines (stripping) were washing away at Auahi and Pauahi Streets, Ammon's concern about palm tree replacement at Ala Moana Beach Park, and Cloutier's concern about turning the sprinklers on at 5:00 p.m. and spoiling the wedding pictures, and Komine wanted a follow up on the Inclusive Destination Playground, where a group, pa ani kakou, presented an "inclusive destination playground" at the Ala Moana Beach Park near the Diamond Head-side concession. DPR is waiting for a response from DDC and the Climate Change, Sustainability, and Resilience Office.
• Community Concerns Form - Chair Tam reminded the public and the Board members to use the Community Concerns form to clarify their concerns and to help the Neighborhood Assistant follow up on the concern. Chair Tam asked about the traffic cone storage facility on Auahi Street. Deputy Director Santee said the City hopes to move the facility.
Councilmember Carol Fukunaga ??? Councilmember Fukunaga could not attend tonight, as she had another community meeting in the Liliha-Kamehameha Heights region. Her report and contact information were available.
Councilmember Ann Kobayashi - Councilmember Kobayashi distributed her newsletter and reported the following:
??? Ala Moana Beach Park - There will be a public meeting on Monday, March 11, 2019 to discuss the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Ala Moana Beach Park Master Plan.
• Ala Wai Canal Project - Area legislators are trying to get the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to come to talk to a community meeting, but they do not want to comment until it is an approved project. Mr. Watase has been doing a lot of work and he will be there.
• Housing - There are a lot of projects going up on Kapi olani Boulevard, on Ke eaumoku Street, on Sheridan Street, and at Ala Moana.
• Pedestrian Safety ??? Chung asked about pedestrian safety. Councilmember Kobayashi asked the City Administration to implement the concepts of Vision Zero, which works in other cities. The City is looking for funding. Mayor Caldwell mentioned in pavement light-emitting diodes (LED) lighting, which was installed in Kalihi. Councilmember Kobayashi added overhead flashing lights on King Street, Complete Streets, and hiring a Coordinator to oversee pedestrian safety. Oppie suggested working with the schools. Councilmember Kobayashi noted that a few schools are waiting for Vision Zero.
• Fire Sprinklers - There was a hearing this morning and the height was raised to 75 feet and higher. Councilmember Fukunaga deferred to bill until everyone had time to read the new draft. Komine's condo is a model condo.
• Vision Zero - Bagnall asked about the cost. Councilmember Kobayashi said that the Mayor's budget will be submitted on Friday, March 1, 2019 and we will see about Vision Zero. Many schools are interested. Chair Tam may invite DTS to make a presentation. Councilmember Kobayashi added that Blue Zones Project found out about Vision Zero. Chung had more statistics. A worker at OahuMPO added that the DTS request for funds for federal funds will be voted on in May 2019.
Interim City Councilmember Mike Formby - Kenny Amazaki distributed Councilmember Mike Formby newsletter and mentioned that he was attending the Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board No. 1. He wants to listen to all members of the community. In Wailupe the community could not agree on the stream and in April 2018 the banks overflowed and massive flooding caused much damage. Regarding the Ala Wai Canal Project, Councilmember Formby wants to bring all parties, including the federal delegation, together for a mutual understanding. He is working on the Ala Moana Beach Park Master Plan and Bill 96, the fire sprinkler issue. Chair Tam noted that in March the Neighborhood Board may move to Wednesday, March 27, 2019.
State Representative Tom Brower - Representative Tom Brower made his Neighborhood Board Report available and highlighted the following:
• Loitering on Private Property - Representative Brower was disappointed with HPD not enforcing loitering on private property.
• Ala Wai Canal Project - Representative Brower heard from the USACE-side and possible flooding the Ala Wai Golf Course.
• Housing Bills - As Chair of the Housing Committee, he is moving forward many housing bills and two (2) bills regulating Airbnb.
• Controversial Bills - These bills include the decriminalization of certain offense relating to marijuana.
• Singapore Model - There were discussion about high density areas and a more affordable mix of housing inventory in Waik k , which may come to Kaka ako in a few years.
• Hong Kong Model - The U.S. may not have the discipline to crack down on violators.
State Senator Sharon Moriwaki - Senator Moriwaki was concerned about housing bills, protecting the shorelines, keeping the 400 feet height limit. Concerning the Ala Wai Canal Project, Senate Ways and Means Committee (WAM) wants to preserve the $345 million funding, while protecting the environment. $22 million was passed last year for the Ala Wai Canal dredging, which will start in March 2019. A summary was available. Senator Moriwaki is available for informal meetings.
House Speaker Scott Saiki - James Stone distributed a Neighborhood Report and was available to hear concerns. Chair Tam thanked House Speaker Saiki for his work on private roads in Kaka ako.
Governor David Ige's Representative - Cindy McMillian, Director of Communications, distributed the February 2019 Capitol Connection and highlighted the following:
• State of the State - Governor Ige focused on a new system of public pre-schools, new approaches to affordable housing and homelessness, and raising the Transient Accommodation Tax (TAT) to give more funding to the counties.
• Capitol Connection - People are encouraged to sign up for electronic delivery of the Capitol Connection newsletter, if they have not already at - http://governor.hawaii.gov/subscribe.
Comments followed:
1. Vertical Schools - Chung requested an update on the six (6) vertical schools by the Department of Education (DOE). McMillian will follow up.
2. Minimum Wage to $15.00 - How does an increase ripple through the economy and what is the impact on the economy. McMillian will follow up.
AGENCY REPORTS
Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) - Francine Murray reported that transfer of the parks to the City may be by early April 2019. A resident wanted clarification. The HCDA does not have the infrastructure to maintain the parks properly.
Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) - Pat Lee reported the following:
• The rail project has made major progress in 2018. This year, HART anticipates awarding a contract for the final four point two (4.2)-mile City Center segment from Middle Street to Ala Moana Center by utilizing a P3, public private partnership contracting method.
• The stations on the west side of the alignment are progressing and are in various stages of completion. A fifth (5th) four (4)-car train is being delivered to the Rail Operations Center soon, which means a quarter of the 80-rail car fleet will be here on island by next month.
• The Automatic Train Control System testing between the Rail Operations Center/Maintenance and Storage Facility and the guideway and stations in Waipahu is ongoing in preparation for the interim opening of rail service from Halawa station at Aloha Stadium to the Kualaka'i station at east Kapolei by the end of next year, 2020.
• Progress on the Airport Guideway and Stations is keeping pace with the schedule. Three (3) of the four (4) stations for this segment, including the station at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport are in the initial stages of construction.
• The City Center Utility Relocation (CCUR) contract was executed in mid-2018 with the goal of relocating utilities along the Dillingham and KakaÔako corridor prior to the guideway and stations work, to reduce the impacts and delays caused by unforeseen conditions. This includes relocation of both wet utilities (sewer, water and drainage) and dry utilities (HECO's electrical lines and communications facilities like Spectrum and Hawaiian Telcom).
• The anticipated opening for revenue service of the full rail system is planned for the end of 2025. Once completed, rail will become an integral part of Honolulu's public mass transit system along with the bus and Handivan, and provide both residents and visitors with fast, safe, reliable transportation and an option to being caught in traffic congestion.
• HART is pleased to announce its annual Art Poster Contest. The contest is open to all high school students, grades ninth (9th) through 12th who are attending any of Oahu's public, private, charter or home schools. The contest deadline is Friday, March 15, 2019 and details are available on HART???s website.
For more information on the rail project, the HART website is www.honolulutransit.org, you can call the project hotline at 566-2299 or email a question to info@honolulutransit.org.
Honolulu Board of Water Supply (BWS) - Chair Tam read the following report:
• Water Main Breaks - There were none.
• Detect-A-Leak Week - Preserving and protecting our most essential resource - our water - is everyone's responsibility. The BWS encourages all residents to check for property leaks and to fix them promptly during Detect-A-Leak Week which is being observed from Monday, March 18, 2019 to Sunday, March 24, 2019. Checking for and repairing property leaks helps save water, lowers your water bill, and prevents potential damage to your home. During Detect-A-Leak Week free toilet leak detection dye tablets will be available to the public during that week at the BWS Public Service Building at 630 South Beretania Street, at all Satellite City Halls, and City Mill locations. For more leak detection information visit www.boardofwatersupply.com or call 748-5041.
• Reminders:
o Deadline for the Water Conservation Week Poster and Poetry contests is Thursday, February 28, 2019. Students grades Kindergarten (K)-12 are invited to participate and submit a poster or poem expressing the contest theme, "Do Your Part Be Water Smart." For more information, visit - www.boardofwatersupply.com/wcwcontests.
o Last year, after an extensive public outreach program, the BWS Board of Directors approved a new water rate schedule, which will help BWS to gradually ramp up pipeline replacement and aims to significantly reduce main breaks. The rate increase will take effect on Monday, July 1, 2019. Full details on the new rate schedule is available at -www.boardofwatersupply.com/waterrates.
At 9:01 p.m. Cloutier departed the meeting; seven (7) members present.
RESIDENTS' AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS
Noise - Nicole Smith, a resident at a Makaloa Street highrise reported that she contacted the Liquor Commission and a citation was issued. The noise level from Hawaiian Brian's has not significantly improved. So, she is looking for some help. Chair Tam suggested that she talk with Board member Chang.
BOARD MEMBER REPORTS
Attendance at Other Meetings - Chair Tam said that he attended a Legislative meeting on Wednesday, February 20. 2019 with Councilmember Kobayashi.
Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) - William Ammons reported that on Wednesday, February 20, 2019, they talked about the 2019-2022 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), State-Level Pedestrian-Bike Safety, and Honolulu Complete Streets. Copies were available. Nicole Smith expanded on the meetings, as she works for OahuMPO.
Community Action Committee (CAC) Report - The Community Action Committee (CAC) did not meet in January 2019 and February 2019. The next meeting is set for March 2019.
Update on Ala Wai Promenade - Chair Tam wrote a letter to DPR.
Chair's Report - There was none.
NEW BUSINESS
Ala Wai Canal Flood Control Project - A resident commented on the various aspects of the project about transparency, public input, and maintenance of the detention basins.
Chair Tam handed the gavel to Vice Chair Zehner and continued. There were two (2) resolutions before the Board.
Chang moved and Chung seconded that the Board consider the shorter one. Discussion followed. Zehner asked if the USACE were invited. Chair Tam said he contacted the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR). Watase said that three (3) Neighborhood Boards passed a resolution in support and two (2) more will next month. They are asking to delay the funding until the stakeholders have time for proper input. The Waik k Neighborhood Board No. 9 said they were notified, but Watase reviewed the last six years of minutes and could not find any mention of the USACE. If the USACE had followed the rules in the past, there would be more discussion and more ideas. A resident liked the "pump and locks" idea for further consideration.
Resolution Concerning the Ala Wai Canal Project
WHEREAS, in the past several decades, catastrophic flooding events have occurred more frequently in the United States and the rest of the world; and
WHEREAS, the United States Army Corps of Engineers ("USAGE") has developed plans for the Ala Wai Canal Project (the "Project"), also referred to as the Ala Wai Flood Mitigation Project, in response to the 100-years storm and potential catastrophic flooding event within the Ala Wai Watershed; and
WHEREAS, the Project includes, among other features, the construction of detention basins in M noa and Kaimuki Valleys, Makiki, Kanewai Park, the Ala Wai Golf Course, Ala Wai Park (Hausten Ditch) and an average four-feet reinforced solid concrete wall which extends as high as four and a half feet in certain segments surrounding portions of the Ala Wai Canal and Ala Wai Promenade; and
WHEREAS, community members have expressed concerns regarding the use of lands for proposed detention basins as well as the impacts and efficacy of higher concrete walls along the Ala Wai Canal; and
WHEREAS, Congress in the Fall of 2018 appropriated money to fund the federal portion of the proposed cost of the Project, leaving only the State funding as the final hurdle before commencement of construction; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that the Ala Moana-Kakaako Neighborhood Board requests that the Hawaii State Legislature defers appropriating any funds for the Project until sufficient community stakeholder concerns have been addressed, including consideration of alternative projects; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Land and Natural Resources, the Hawaii State Legislature, and the Honolulu City Council.
Chang moved and Chung seconded that the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 supports the motion requesting that the Hawaii State Legislature defers appropriating any funds for the Project until sufficient community stakeholder concerns have been addressed, including consideration of alternative projects. As there were no objections, the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 ADOPTED the motion, by UNANIMOUS CONSENT, 7-0-0 (AYE: Ammons, Chang, Chung, Komine, Oppie, Tam, and Zehner; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None). Chair Tam thanked Watase for his hard work. Bagnall congratulated the Board on its vote. Further discussion will follow at the Waik k Neighborhood Board No.9 next month. Chair Tam will try to contact USACE. Chair Tam said that the Community Action Committee (CAC) will meet next Wednesday, March 6, 2019.
Waimanu/Queen Street Roundabout - As there were no objections, Chair Tam will defer this item to the next meeting.
Pedestrian Safety Issues, including Ala Moana Boulevard and Kamakee Street - As there were no objections, Chair Tam will defer this item to the next meeting.
Safety Concerns with New Commercial/Residential Mixed-Use Areas in Kaka ako - As there were no objections, Chair Tam will defer this item to the next meeting.
BOARD BUSINESS
Approval of the October 23, 2018, November 27, 2018, and January 22, 2019 Regular Meeting Minutes - There were none available.
Determination of Meeting Time for the March 2019 Meeting - Chair Tam mentioned that as Tuesday, March 26, 2019 is the State Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana ole Day Holiday, the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 will have to change the meeting date to Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at the Makiki Christian Church, the Upper Meeting Room at 7:00 p.m. Komine moved and Zehner seconded that the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 moved the regular monthly meeting to Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at the Makiki Christian Church, the Upper Meeting Room at 7:00 p.m. As there were no objections, the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 ADOPTED the motion, by UNANIMOUS CONSENT, 7-0-0 (AYE: Ammons, Chang, Chung, Komine, Oppie, Tam, and Zehner; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).
Treasurer's Report - Treasurer Susan Oppie reported that total expenditures were $30.59, leaving a balance of $282.77. The Treasurer's Report was filed.
PERMITS, HEARINGS, AND APPLICATIONS
• Special Liquor License - Free Spirits LLC: Kona Nui Nights on Wednesday, February 20, 2019, Wednesday, March 20, 2019, and Wednesday, April 17, 2019 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 1240 Ala Moana Boulevard.
• Special Liquor License - Cantina LLC, dba Encore Saloon for the FarmLovers Farmers Market on Wednesday Evenings at 1050 Ala Moana Boulevard.
• Liquor Commission Hearing for Hana Kou Brewing Company (962 Kawaiahao Street) - Thursday, March 14, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. at 711 Kapiolani Boulevard, 6th Floor
• Second Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Ala Moana Regional Park Improvements -
http://oeqc2.doh.hawaii.gov/The_Environmental_Notice/2019-02-08-TEN.pdf (comments are due by Monday, March 25, 2019)
COMMUNITY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCHES
• Mother Waldron Park (525 Cooke Street) - Mondays, 5:15 p.m.;
• Sheridan Park (833 Pi ikoi Street) - Monday/Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m.;
??? Keola La i Condominium (600 Queen Street) Tuesdays, 5:15 p.m.;
??? Kolowalu Park (1177 Queen Street) - 1st and 2nd Thursdays, 6:00 p.m.
• Atkinson Towers (419A Atkinson Drive) - Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
• King's Runner 10K - Portions of Beretania Street, Punchbowl, Pohukaina, Keawe, Ilalo, Ahui, and Ala Moana Boulevard will be closed on Sunday, March 3, 2019 from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Race starts and ends at Thomas Square.
• Next Meeting - The date of the regular March 2019 meeting of the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 will be on Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at the Makiki Christian Church, the Upper Meeting Room at 7:00 p.m.
• Upcoming Committee Meetings - The next meeting for the Community Action Committee (CAC) will be on Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at the McCoy Pavilion, Ala Moana Beach Park.
• lelo Broadcasts - Broadcasts of the Ala Moana-Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 meetings are on lelo 49 on the first and third Thursdays at 8:00 a.m. and every second Sunday at 6:00 p.m.
• No Loitering - Please do not loiter on Makiki Christian Church grounds after 9:00 p.m. Mahalo.
ADJOURNMENT - As there was no further business before the Board, Chair Tam adjourned the meeting at 9:25 p.m.
Submitted by: K. Russell Ho, Neighborhood Assistant
Reviewed by: Jackson Coley, Public Relations Specialist
Reviewed by: Lynn Marino, Secretary
Reviewed by: Ryan Tam, Chair
Questions? Ready for an appointment?
Featured Product/Service
- RELATED LINKS
- Calendar
Check out things to do in Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii on the calendar of events. - News and Newsletters
Keep up with the latest news and happenings in the Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii community. - Ala Moana Honolulu, Hawaii Featured Pages
View our directory of feature pages showcasing all the great things Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii has to offer. - Featured Sponsors Offers
Great offers from our sponsors who support the Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii Community More... - Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii Coupons & Discounts
Save money in Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii with these coupons. - About Ala Moana - Honolulu Hawaii
Learn about Ala Moana - Honolulu, Hawaii. - About Ala Moana HI .com
Learn about Ala Moana HI .com website and its creator.
Please send questions about this website to
Copyright© 2015 - 2019 AlaMoanaHI.com. All rights reserved.
Terms of Use / Legal Disclaimer / Privacy Statement
Site Designed and Managed by MacBusiness Consulting
Terms of Use / Legal Disclaimer / Privacy Statement
Site Designed and Managed by MacBusiness Consulting