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  • Ala Moana-Kakaako Neighborhood Board Meeting SEPTEMBER 2026 Minutes - STAY CONNECTED

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

ALA MOANA - KAKA‘AKO NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 11

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 at 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI CHRISTIAN CHURCH, 829 PENSACOLA STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96814
AND VIA WEBEX

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

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

1. CALL TO ORDER -- [0:00:00]: Chair Kathleen Lee called the Ala Moana-Kakaʻako Neighborhood Board No. 11 meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Roll Call -- [0:00:13]: Neighborhood Assistant Kelly Nakamura of the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) conducted a roll call. Quorum WAS established with six (6) board members present -- [0:01:11]. This 11-member Board requires six (6) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Chris Chung, Rick Egged, Lori Farinas, Sheri Rand, Dale VanderBrink, Kathleen Lee, Dyson Chee (joined at 6:08 p.m.), and Rodney Chang (joined at 6:40 p.m.).

Board Members Absent: Quinn Hashimoto, Kaili Morala, and Jeanne Rice.

Guests: Captain M. Hino (Honolulu Fire Department - HFD); Sergeant Kendrick, Major Henry Roberts, Captain Matsumura, and Sergeant Brandy Hishi (Honolulu Police Department - HPD); Roy Miyahira, Director of Homeless Solutions (Department of Community Services - DCS); Castro Masaniai, Director of Outreach (The Institute for Human Services - IHS); Jeff Zukernick, Assistant Chief of Operations, on Special Assignment to Community Outreach Response and Engagement (Honolulu Emergency Services Department - HESD/CORE); Mark Yonamine, Deputy Director (Department of Design and Construction -- DDC & Mayor's Representative); Laura Hamamatsu (WSP USA); Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (Honolulu City Council District 5); Malcolm Iwami (Office of Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam); Senator Sharon Moriwaki (State Senate District 12); Venus (Office of Senator Sharon Moriwaki); Flora (Office of Representative Adrian Tam); Kate Ozawa (Office of Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto); Ashton Stallings (Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs - DCCA & Governor's Representative); Francine Murray (Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority - HCDA); Harry Cho (Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation - HART); Steve Davidson (Mid Pacific Road Runners Club); Todd Adams and Laura Ruby (Residents); Kelly Nakamura (Neighborhood Commission Office - NCO). Names are not included if illegible on sign-in sheet or inaudible. There were 61 total participants.

2. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS -- [0:01:12]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) -- [0:01:23]: Captain M. Hino highlighted the following:
• Incident Statistics for August 2026: 7 nuisance fires, 44 activated alarms, 149 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision, and 3 hazardous materials incidents.
• Safety Tip -- Lithium Ion Batteries: HFD is seeing more lithium-ion battery incidents across devices from phones to cars. Use the original charger, charge on hard surfaces, unplug when full, and charge bikes, scooters, and power tools outdoors when possible without blocking exits. Stop using any device that overheats, swells, smells odd, leaks, smokes, pops, or hisses. On flights, keep charging devices in view, don't charge vapes, and report problems to a flight attendant.
• Fire Prevention Week Family Day: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Honolulu Zoo.
• September 2026 Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VQp0Jv24DI5mDNz8ZnMJ053U8YqB-t2W/view

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [0:03:25]
1. Increase in Nuisance Fires: VanderBrink asked if the 7 nuisance fires is an increase from the previous month. Captain Hino did not know the July 2026 stats offhand but will check and report back.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- [0:04:40]: Sergeant Kendrick, District 1, reported the following:
• Crime Statistics for August 2026: 33 auto thefts, 1 burglary, 113 thefts, 11 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle, 29 assaults, 3 sexual assaults, 3 incidents of grafitti, 4 reported drug cases, and 165 motor vehicle collisions.
• Safety Tip -- School is Back in Session: Be mindful of pedestrians while on the driving, small children and e-bikes are harder to see.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [0:05:35]
1. Honolulu Liquor Commission Extending Hours Starting October 2026: VanderBrink explained that liquor establishments will be allowed to stay open until 4:00 a.m., and asked if there is any coordination between HPD and the Honolulu Liquor Commission to ensure patrons are properly covered by patrol shifts during those early hours. Sergeant Kendrick explained that there are plans to have officers stationed at active locations (like Chinatown) to ensure availble police enforcement and prevent fights or drunk driving.
2. Special Duty Officers at Construction Sites: Secretary Farinas asked whether special duty officers assigned to the Straub Benioff Medical Center construction site can address vehicles parked illegally and blocking the area, and whether officers are present every day. Sergeant Kendrick explained that special duty officers primarily manage traffic flow around the construction site but can cite and tow vehicles obstructing the site, and can notify on-duty patrol officers about issues outside the immediate area; their presence depends on the construction company's permits and daily work (such as moving heavy equipment), and HPD is usually not notified until the day or week of.
3. Meet the Police Chief Event: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink noted the HPD Chief held a "Meet the Chief" event in Kalihi on Monday, September 21, 2026, and will attend the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board in January 2027, and asked whether a similar event would be held in the Ala Moana-Kakaʻako area. Sergeant Kendrick believed an event is planned before the end of the year (October or November 2026) and referred questions to the Chief's office liaison.
4. Drone Program Status: Member Rand asked whether the drone program is in effect and operates 24 hours. Sergeant Kendrick responded that the program has been in effect for a few weeks, normally operating from
2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., currently in District 1 and the Kalihi-Pālama area.
5. Houseless Population and Enforcement: Member Chung asked whether HPD statistics track housing status, whether social services accompany HPD, what has been effective, and whether the number of houseless individuals has changed. Sergeant Kendrick stated HPD does not currently track whether individuals are houseless; the CORE outreach program works with HPD during day and night hours; the sit-lie ordinance has been an effective tool, particularly in Chinatown; conditions in the Kakaʻako park area improved through collaboration with the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) sheriffs; and population growth and high housing costs in the area have contributed to houselessness.
6. Drone Program Hours: Member Rand noted many issues in Kakaʻako occur between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m., and that drones were previously described as useful for street-racing caravans at night, and requested an update on any expansion. Sergeant Kendrick stated the drones are not currently equipped for night operations. An additional HPD representative added that the program is a pilot, the hours were chosen based on peak call times, and the long-term goal is 24-hour coverage, depending on funding and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pilot certification.
7. Sit-Lie Enforcement in Ala Moanna: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked whether the sit-lie ordinance is enforced as uniformly in the Ala Moana area as in Kakaʻako and Chinatown, and how the homeless counts compare. Sergeant Kendrick confirmed enforcement is uniform and conducted by the same officers, with daily statistics collected; Chinatown has a larger homeless population; exact numbers were not available.

3. COMMUNITY DISCUSSIONS -- [0:21:25]

Homeless/Houseless Issue in the Neighborhood -- [0:21:25]: Chair Lee explained the item was placed on the agenda in response to community concerns raised at the Tuesday, August 25, 2026 meeting. Panelists included Roy Miyahira, Director of Homeless Solutions, City and County of Honolulu; Castro Masaniai, Director of Outreach, IHS; Jeff Zukernick, Assistant Chief of Operations, HESD, on special assignment to CORE; and HPD District 1 representatives, Major Henry Roberts, Captain Matsumura, and Sergeant Brandy Hishi, Community Policing Sergeant. Dr. James Ireland was not present.

HPD Representative: HPD District 1 representatives participated as part of the panel discussion below.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [0:22:58]
1. City Efforts to Address Growing Encampments: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink noted growing homeless populations at Ala Moana Beach Park, Kapiʻolani Boulevard near the H&R Block building, Keʻeaumoku Street, and near the Jack in the Box on Kalākaua Avenue by the stream, and asked what is being done. Director Miyahira explained the City acts on reports from the 311 line, emails, community meetings, and outreach partners (IHS and Kealahou West Oʻahu), with the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM) conducting Stored Property Ordinance (SPO) enforcement weekly, preceded by outreach; shelter availability is at about 90% capacity but services are still offered, and encampments have become smaller over the past year and a half.
2. Recent Enforcement at Ala Moana Beach Park: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked when the last enforcement occurred. Captain Matsumura stated HPD, with its ATV/bike detail and DFM, conducts weekly SPO enforcement in Ala Moana Beach Park every Thursday (most recently Thursday, September 17, 2026). Since Tuesday, September 1, 2026, the park had 24 park closure citations, 2 shopping cart violations, 11 other park violations, 7 park closure arrests, 8 contempt of court (warrant) arrests, 1 disorderly conduct arrest, 2 criminal property damage arrests, 1 arrest for operating a stolen vehicle, 1 for possession of a dangerous drug, 1 for harassment of a police officer, and 6 to 8 additional arrests for outstanding warrants.
3. Follow-Up When Services Are Refused: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked what follow-up occurs when individuals are cited but refuse services. Captain Matsumura explained each situation differs; officers run database checks and escalate from warnings to citations to arrests, and every contact is documented (such as a miscellaneous public report, warning, citation, or arrest).
4. Covered Shopping Carts: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked about shopping carts covered with tarps to avoid citation. Captain Matsumura explained enforcement depends on the officer's observations; individuals' belongings are protected, so unattended carts cannot simply be discarded, but carts are recovered and returned to stores with the owner present and their permission.
5. Staggering Enforcement Days: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked whether enforcement days could be staggered. Captain Matsumura stated Thursday is the ATV team's scheduled day, while other units conduct operations throughout the rest of the week.
6. Outreach Referrals and Follow-Up: Masaniai shared a flyer with a QR code for direct outreach referrals to IHS, with a response typically within a day, and noted outreach teams check in with individuals before and after scheduled sweeps. Asked why individuals decline services, he cited shelter rules, mental health or substance use issues, lack of capacity to make decisions, and not being ready for help (the "pre-contemplative" stage of change). Director Miyahira added that some chronically homeless individuals have adapted to street life, and committed to providing a comparison of the Chinatown and Ala Moana populations.
• Website: https://ihshawaii.org/contact/
7. Shelter Capacity: Director Miyahira reported that the City's command center/navigation center provides real-time shelter availability; at the time of the meeting, openings at Kapolei included 6 in the men's tent, 1 in the women's tent, 2 in the couples' tent, and up to 30 in the family tents.
8. Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) Updates: A community member asked whether outreach teams update HMIS after each encounter. Masaniai confirmed they do for most encounters and reported that from July 2026 to present in District 1, IHS had 334 unique encounters with 247 unduplicated individuals, of whom about 95 agreed to work toward services.
9. CORE Program Overview: Zukernick explained CORE has about 30 to 34 staff in three sections: community health workers who conduct outreach; Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) who transport non-ambulatory individuals to appropriate facilities, such as the behavioral health crisis center, to decompress the 911 and emergency room systems; and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who work with HPD's Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) on MH-3 (emergency mental health) cases under Act 219. He noted MH-3s were paused that week due to a lack of available facilities, and that the Mayor has convened meetings with care providers, the State, and hospitals to find solutions.
10. Where to Direct Additional Resources: Member Chung shared anecdotes about a veteran who referred 27 people with outstanding warrants to Crime Stoppers within three months, reported drug dealing near Ala Moana Center and Walmart, and a formerly homeless accountant who avoided shelters because he could not stay with his girlfriend or dog and due to bed bugs and lice, and asked where the Board should advocate for additional resources, suggesting more ambulances. Director Miyahira cited affordable housing, case management, more social work professionals, and prevention data (such as evictions and SNAP benefit reductions). Zukernick cited long-term intensive mental health and drug addiction treatment, stopping drugs entering through harbors, airports, and the mail, more ambulances, and changing insurance rules so ambulances can transport to facilities other than emergency departments, noting hospital diversion limits currently restrict ambulance arrivals. Masaniai cited more frontline outreach workers (IHS has three to four full-time staff covering from the airport to Punahou Street) and specialized shelters for the aging population. Captain Matsumura noted HPD is short-staffed and could use more officers, but more officers alone would not solve homelessness.
11. Chronic Homeless and Property Crime: Member Chung noted residents are most concerned about chronically homeless individuals committing trespass and theft who move from property to property, and thanked the agencies for their efforts.
12. Tracking Program Effectiveness: Secretary Farinas asked whether HPD could add statistics on the effectiveness of collaborative efforts with other organizations, to present to the new HPD Chief, Chief Lazar, as justification for additional resources. HPD stated it would look into it.
13. Street Medicine Doctors: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked whether a grant, similar to Waikīkī Health's street medicine program funded through the Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID), could place a doctor on the streets in the neighborhood. Zukernick agreed and reported CORE has applied for a $3.5 million Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grant to bring medicine to the street and a $2 million Bureau of Justice Assistance grant (decision expected within about two weeks) to engage individuals in the district courts and HPD cellblock. Masaniai noted medication acceptance often takes weeks or months of engagement. Zukernick added the grants would support the Assisted Community Treatment (ACT) process, under which a judge may order long-term injectable medications costing $2,000 to $4,000 per month, and that the new HPD Chief has committed to increasing CIT personnel.
14. Community Benefits Packages and Vacant Buildings: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink noted upcoming developments, including 1588 Ala Moana Boulevard ($6 million for complete streets and trees), The Muse on Kapiʻolani Boulevard, and a Nan, Inc. property next to Century Center on Kalākaua Avenue, and suggested the Board work with elected officials and the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) to direct community benefits packages toward homeless services, and suggested the vacant building near the H&R Block on Kapiʻolani Boulevard be used by a service provider.
15. Safe Parking Programs: Member Chung cited safe parking programs in Santa Barbara, San Diego, Seattle, and Maui, and asked how safe parking could work in Honolulu. Director Miyahira noted mixed reviews on the West Coast, including security concerns and access to services, but supported reviewing it further. Masaniai stated a central location would make outreach easier, as people living in vehicles are mobile and difficult to track.
16. Comprehensive Homeless Strategy: Treasurer Chee asked whether a comprehensive plan ties together the efforts of all agencies. Director Miyahira responded that the City's homeless strategy, developed in 2023, is still being executed and needs updating to reflect CORE's new direction, and highlighted strong collaboration between the City, State, and nonprofits. Masaniai added agencies are now working together instead of in silos.
17. Childhood Trauma and Distrust: Resident Todd Adams noted that many homeless individuals experienced chronic childhood abuse and trauma that leads to distrust of people offering services.
18. Outreach Service Areas: Chair Lee asked about the service areas of outreach providers. Masaniai explained that IHS and Kealahou West Oʻahu (KWO) are the State-contracted homeless outreach providers for the eastern and western halves of Oʻahu, respectively, with many grassroots organizations also conducting outreach. Director Miyahira added that CORE and HPD CIT officers also conduct outreach.
19. CORE Audit: Regarding a question about a City audit of CORE, Zukernick acknowledged the audit was unfavorable due to a past lack of documentation, and stated CORE is retooling its mission statement under the Managing Director's direction, using the State Department of Health (DOH) documentation system, and bringing in a new computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system.

Closing Remarks -- [1:23:51]: Each panelist shared a final message:
• CORE: Zukernick stated this is the first time in his 32 years in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system that the State, City, providers, HPD, and HFD are purposefully collaborating, and if the grants are received, fewer sick individuals will be on the streets.
• HPD: Captain Matsumura stated HPD hears the community's concerns, encouraged residents to call 911 for emergencies, and emphasized it is a team effort. Sergeant Hishi added that the community's help is also needed. Major Roberts noted District 1 takes the issue seriously, applies consistent gentle pressure to drive individuals toward services, and that crime overall is down.
• DCS: Director Miyahira stated the City is giving 100% effort to keep public spaces safe while helping people find a better place than the street.
• IHS: Masaniai stated homelessness is a community problem that requires a community solution and encouraged residents to use the 311 app or IHS's QR code referral to connect individuals to services.

4. RESIDENTS' AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS -- [1:31:24]

HVAC Noise/Vibration at Ulana Ward Village -- [1:31:36]: Resident Todd Adams reported newly uncovered documents showing that, in 2020, the developer's engineers (Ciecero) prepared an Appendix G stating HVAC noise would be evaluated in residential units, and that Condition 24 (Wednesday, May 5, 2021) requires Victoria Ward, Limited to implement the noise mitigation measures outlined in the noise impact analysis. He stated he obtained the documents through his own Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA) request filed on Wednesday, August 12, 2026; that at a public forum on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, HCDA Executive Director Nakamoto referenced a letter and offered to suggest in-unit testing; and that HCDA fulfilled the request on Friday, August 28, 2026, including a January 2026 letter. He will continue next month. Chair Lee thanked him for his continued advocacy.

Ala Wai Ferry and Watershed Debris -- [1:30:20]: Resident Laura Ruby noted her proposed resolution for small, inexpensive pedestrian and bicycle ferries across the Ala Wai Canal, and asked the Board to join watershed collaboration efforts with upland landowners, the forest reserve, and preservation property owners to address debris washing down Makiki Stream and the Ala Wai Canal during heavy rains. Chair Lee stated the Board would confirm whether the Ala Wai is within the Board's district; Ruby stated the boundary runs through the middle of the canal.

Mid Pacific Road Runners Club Events -- [1:38:51]: Steve Davidson announced two events at Ala Moana Regional Park's Magic Island: the Lēʻahi 5K on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 7:00 a.m., followed by bentos; and the annual Santa Hat 5K and 1-Mile Keiki Run on Sunday, December 6, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.

5. ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS -- [1:39:59]

Mayor Rick Blangiardi's Representative -- [1:40:26]: Deputy Director Mark Yonamine, DDC, yielded his time for a presentation on an upcoming paving project. Chair Lee thanked him for inviting Director Miyahira to the meeting.
• Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tBSQ2QO7zYtZEGkBPVugUEb8uUTwGxVv/view

Rehabilitation of Streets, Unit 89B -- Kapiʻolani Boulevard -- [1:41:03]: Laura Hamamatsu, WSP USA, project consultant for DDC, presented the following, with representatives of DDC's construction management and design branches, the contractor, and the construction manager present:
• Project Limits and Scope: Kapiʻolani Boulevard from Ward Avenue to Atkinson Drive; work includes tree work (root pruning, canopy pruning, and removals), concrete curb, gutter, and sidewalk work (most curb and gutter reconstructed, a small portion of sidewalk), and asphalt paving and striping over the entire project limits.
• Schedule: The notice to proceed was issued in April 2026 with a contract duration of 545 calendar days; construction is targeted to start in October or November 2026.
• Phasing and Traffic Impacts: Work will proceed eastbound from Ward Avenue (tree work, then concrete work, then asphalt paving) and then return westbound, ending with permanent striping. Curb and gutter work will require a 24-hour single-lane closure to allow concrete to cure; asphalt paving will require a two-lane closure with one lane open; striping may be done at night under the City's existing noise variance.
• Exceptional Trees: There are 152 exceptional monkeypod trees within the project limits; the City's certified arborist has made recommendations for each tree, pending formal confirmation from the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Division of Urban Forestry (DUF). Three trees are recommended for removal and replacement: one on the makai side next to McKinley High School near Pensacola Street, leaning into the bus lane and previously struck; one at the corner of Piʻikoi Street on the Diamond Head-makai side, whose roots would be impacted by curb and gutter reconstruction; and one near an intersection on the makai-ʻEwa side, leaning into the road and previously struck.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [1:47:10]
1. Replacement Trees: Secretary Farinas asked what the removed trees would be replaced with. Hamamatsu stated the current plan is the same type of tree, coordinated with DUF.
2. Extending Repairs Beyond Ward Avenue: Secretary Farinas noted uneven pavement, curbs, and raised tree roots in the ʻEwa direction beyond Ward Avenue (near Yanagi Sushi) and asked whether work would extend there. Hamamatsu will take the question back to the City.
3. Uneven Sidewalks and Project Type: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink noted sidewalks on the mauka side of Kapiʻolani Boulevard between Ward Avenue and Ala Moana Center are uneven and difficult for wheelchairs and strollers, a possible Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concern, and confirmed the project is a rehabilitation rather than a complete streets project. Hamamatsu confirmed.
4. Project Duration: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink asked whether the 545-day duration is the full project length. Hamamatsu explained it is the contract duration, which could be extended due to weather or unknown utilities, and agreed to notify the Mayor's Representative of any delays.
5. Wheelchair Accessibility: Secretary Farinas echoed concerns about uneven sidewalks beyond Ward Avenue, noting a neighbor in a wheelchair has difficulty traversing the area.
6. Transplanting Trees: Resident Laura Ruby asked that the three trees be transplanted rather than removed to extend the Kapiʻolani Boulevard green canopy toward Diamond Head, noting Roxanne Adams of urban forestry has successfully transplanted mature trees before.

City Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) -- [1:52:22]: Councilmember Nishimoto reported the following:
• Ala Moana Park Cleanup: At the Board's request, another cleanup at Ala Moana Regional Park has been scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 2026.
• Community Meeting with the New HPD Chief: He is meeting with the new Chief this week to plan a community meeting in the Ala Moana area, expected in November 2026, with the date to be announced shortly.

 
Questions, comments, and concerns -- [1:53:41]
1. Community Benefits Packages: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink expressed concern that community benefits packages, such as 1588 Ala Moana Boulevard's $6 million for complete streets on Atkinson Drive and trees, feel arbitrary, and asked whether the Councilmember would be open to a Board resolution asking DPP to direct such packages toward homeless services and outreach. Councilmember Nishimoto stated he is open to it, noting developers also find the process arbitrary.

State Senator Sharon Moriwaki (District 12) -- [1:55:32]: Senator Moriwaki thanked HPD and highlighted the following:
• August 2026 Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xuLHKzKjMOtEpeBe2VQlsnKdHRzfcQaL/view
• Office Closure: Capitol offices are being painted; her office will work remotely during October 2026 and remain responsive.
• Ala Wai Canal and Streams: Two University of Hawaiʻi College of Engineering civil engineering faculty members, are studying technologies to clear streams on an ongoing basis. The State Department of Transportation (DOT) used $9 million in federal funds to clear debris from Mānoa Stream, one of three streams (Mānoa, Pālolo, and Makiki) feeding the canal. She introduced an enforcement bill, as the City cannot close streams or bridges where homeless individuals reside, and is pursuing catchment at the upstream end, such as near the Kapahulu Library. The Legislature appropriated $1 million to the College of Engineering and $2.5 million to DOT for pilot projects; the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) post-storm cleanups cost about $20,000 per day.
• Kakaʻako Makai Area Plan: Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority (HCDA) has contracted with SSFM International to update the plan; she encouraged residents to review and comment on the scenarios during the 30-day comment period.
• Citizens Patrol: Sergeant Hishi oversees community policing, with four citizen patrols in the district. Sarah Kim is starting a citizens patrol at One Ala Moana, with a training on Thursday, October 1, 2026; residents were encouraged to get involved.
• 1588 Ala Moana Boulevard: The project will be heard on Thursday, September 24, 2026; residents were encouraged to weigh in on the conceptual plan.
• Aloha Festivals Floral Parade: Saturday, September 26, 2026, from Ala Moana Boulevard through Waikīkī to Kapiʻolani Park.
• Staff: She introduced her office manager, Venus, who will attend when the Senator is unable to.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [2:02:34]
1. Makiki Stream Debris and Encampments: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink noted homeless encampments and debris (couches and cardboard) are always present in Makiki Stream near the Jack in the Box on Kalākaua Avenue, and asked that it be cleaned and secured. Senator Moriwaki stated the stream was cleared about eight to ten years ago after the 40-day storm with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and a grant involving McKinley High School and Washington Middle School students, and that landowners must also stop disposing of items in the channelized stream, which contributed to the canal overflowing.

City Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6) -- [2:04:59]: Malcolm Iwami shared the September 2026 newsletter and noted it is committee week at the Honolulu City Council, with an informational briefing on DPP's permitting software on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Chair Lee thanked the Councilmember for suggesting the Board invite CORE.

State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) -- [2:06:18]: No representative present.

State Representative Adrian Tam (District 24) -- [2:06:32]: Flora reported the Capitol office is closed but the office is working remotely; Representative Tam holds office hours by appointment at the WBID office on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and the office is drafting 2027 legislation and welcomes ideas.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [2:07:49]
1. Capitol Office Renovations: Chair Lee asked whether the renovations apply to the entire Capitol. Flora stated all Senate and House offices are being renovated on staggered schedules of about one to one and a half months each, with all offices expected to reopen by mid-November 2026, and staff are fully available remotely.

State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) -- [2:09:00]: Kate Ozawa apologized that Representative Iwamoto could not attend in person and reported she plans to reintroduce her empty homes tax bill and free bus fare bill; the office has been without its Capitol office since late July 2026, with new furniture expected in October 2026.

Governor Josh Green's Representative -- [2:10:21]: Ashton Stallings, DCCA, highlighted the September 2026 newsletter, featuring storm recovery updates from State departments and community organizations, preparation for future storms during the El Niño season, and $18.5 million in funding.
Questions, comments, and concerns -- [2:11:47]
1. Elevator Maintenance in Older Buildings: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink raised concerns, citing a Civil Beat article, that elevators in older high-rises went down during recent storms due to power outages and water damage, affecting kūpuna, and asked whether emergency funds could help. Stallings will include the concern in her report.

6. AGENCY REPORTS -- [2:12:57]

Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority (HCDA) -- [2:13:14]: Francine Murray highlighted the following:
• Kakaʻako Makai Area Plan: The newsletter includes an article on the area scenarios workshop held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 (about 135 attendees). The online comment period is open for 30 days, until Monday, October 19, 2026.
• HCDA Board Meeting: An update on the area plan will be presented at the HCDA board meeting on Wednesday, October 7, 2026; the agenda will be posted on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [2:14:44]
1. Scope of Update: Resident Laura Ruby asked whether the update addresses transit through Kakaʻako and where to find maps. Murray clarified it is the Kakaʻako Makai Area Plan update (plans and rules guiding future development), currently in the community outreach phase, with materials on the HCDA website homepage.
2. Additional Sessions: Secretary Farinas asked whether another public session would be held for those who missed the Saturday, September 19, 2026 workshop. Murray stated it was the last large public workshop; all materials are online for comment, and an overview will be presented at the next HCDA board meeting.
3. Vibration Verification Records: Resident Todd Adams asked whether HCDA ever received the vibration verification test protocols and results it requested from the developer on Friday, January 23, 2026, regarding Condition 24, noting he lives in a reserved housing building. Murray will take the question back to the office.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) -- [2:18:29]: Harry Cho reported on HART's plans beyond the Civic Center Station:
• Current Funding: HART's budgeted funding covers construction to the Civic Center Station (next to The Pacific condominium) with guideway columns up to Cook Street; HART is evaluating long-term funding options to continue toward Ala Moana and eventually the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Waikīkī, and Kapolei.
• Route to Ala Moana: The route continues along Halekauwila Street past Cook Street to Ward Avenue, with a station next to the new condominium building, then shifts to Queen Street past Whole Foods and TJ Maxx, then to Kona Street into Ala Moana. The route map was shared with the Chair.

Questions, comments, and concerns -- [2:21:31]
1. Blaisdell Center Access: Member Chung asked about the closest planned and funded stop to the Neal S. Blaisdell Center. Cho stated the closest stop would be the Kakaʻako Station on Ward Avenue, about a block away, but HART does not currently have funding to reach that station.
2. At-Grade Rail: Resident Laura Ruby asked why HART does not consider at-grade rail beyond Ala Moana toward Waikīkī and Mōʻiliʻili, as it is less costly and intrusive. Cho responded the route to Ala Moana will remain grade-separated, but at-grade options may be considered for future extensions.

7. BOARD BUSINESS -- [2:24:55]

Approval of the Tuesday, July 28, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes -- [2:25:24]: Chair Lee explained the July 2026 minutes were placed back on the agenda because members voting online at the previous meeting needed to have their cameras on for their votes to count.

[2:25:45] -- VanderBrink MOVED and Egged SECONDED to approve the Tuesday, July 28, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes as written. The motion was ADOPTED; 8-0-0 (Aye: Chang, Chee, Chung, Egged, Farinas, Lee, Rand, VanderBrink. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) -- [2:26:13].

 
Approval of the Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes -- [2:26:00]

[2:26:40] -- Egged MOVED and VanderBrink SECONDED to approve the Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes as written. The motion was ADOPTED; 8-0-0 (Aye: Chang, Chee, Chung, Egged, Farinas, Lee, Rand, VanderBrink. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) -- [2:26:54].

Support for the AIDS Memorial & Community Site at Kakaʻako Waterfront Park -- [2:26:58]: The item was placed on the agenda following the presentation at the Tuesday, August 25, 2026 meeting so the Board could take formal action.

[2:27:11] -- VanderBrink MOVED and Farinas SECONDED for the Board to support the AIDS Memorial & Community Site at Kakaʻako Waterfront Park. The motion was ADOPTED; 8-0-0 (Aye: Chang, Chee, Chung, Egged, Farinas, Lee, Rand, VanderBrink. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) -- [2:27:38].

Resolution Supporting a Business Improvement District (BID) Within the Ala Moana-Kakaʻako Neighborhood -- [2:27:38]: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink summarized the whereas clauses, including the potential benefits of improving public safety, conducting outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness, maintaining cleaner streets, sidewalks, and public spaces, improving walkability, and enhancing the neighborhood's appearance and vitality, as seen in Waikīkī and Downtown Honolulu, and read the resolved clauses: the Board supports the establishment of a BID within the neighborhood; the resolution expresses general support and does not endorse specific boundaries, assessments, governance structures, or programs; the Board may take further action on specific elements as they are presented; and copies shall be transmitted to the Mayor and members of the Honolulu City Council.
• Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eqW8K1RP-GSMZnzV8h_kI71h26R6lQoE/view

Discussion followed -- [2:29:55]
• Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink stated the area lacks the funding needed to address homelessness and a BID could direct funds to the neighborhood, as in Waikīkī; he intentionally did not specify assessments in the resolution.
• Member Egged, who helped establish the Waikīkī BID, stated a BID would benefit the area but requires strong support from the business community, which primarily funds it, though residential assessments are possible.
• Chair Lee noted the resolution expresses support only and that interest has been seen among neighborhood stakeholders.

[2:32:16] -- VanderBrink MOVED and Farinas SECONDED to adopt the Resolution supporting a Business Improvement District within the Ala Moana-Kakaʻako Neighborhood. The motion was ADOPTED by roll call vote;
8-0-0 (Aye: Chang, Chee, Chung, Egged, Farinas, Lee, Rand, VanderBrink. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) -- [2:32:57].

Establishment of a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) Regarding a Potential Ala Moana-Kakaʻako BID -- [2:33:11]: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink explained that, due to ongoing stakeholder discussions, a PIG would allow members to attend stakeholder meetings and hold one-on-one discussions with businesses without Sunshine Law concerns. Membership must be fewer than a quorum (five or fewer members). Members VanderBrink, Rice, Egged, and Rand expressed interest, and Chair Lee volunteered as the fifth member.

[2:35:47] -- VanderBrink MOVED and Chung SECONDED to establish a Permitted Interaction Group regarding a potential Ala Moana-Kakaʻako Business Improvement District, consisting of VanderBrink, Rice, Egged, Rand, and Lee. The motion was ADOPTED by roll call vote; 8-0-0 (Aye: Chang, Chee, Chung, Egged, Farinas, Lee, Rand, VanderBrink. Nay: None. Abstain: None.) -- [2:37:30].

Action Committee Updates -- [2:37:30]: Second Vice-Chair VanderBrink reported the Action Committee met with Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam, who suggested inviting HPD's community policing team to Board meetings and discussed challenges from establishing the Downtown BID. Representative Adrian Tam is scheduled to attend the next Action Committee meeting and residents were encouraged to attend and share bill ideas.

Attendance/Presence at Other Meetings/Events -- [2:38:55]:
• Past Events: Chair Lee acknowledged Member Rand for volunteering as the Board's representative to the Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC). Member Rand reported the CAC met on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, and introduced the HNL Connect app for transportation efficiency with a rewards point system; social media accounts at @HNL.DTS and @HNL.transit (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hnl-connect/id6751115062); and the reintroduction of the share pool van pool program to commute to work or rail stations.

8. SUBDISTRICT REPORTS -- [2:40:42]: None.

9. ANNOUNCEMENTS -- [2:40:52]

Upcoming Events:
• 2026 Aloha Festivals Floral Parade: Saturday, September 26, 2026.
• Make-A-Wish Hawaiʻi's 2026 Jingle Rock Run: Sunday, December 6, 2026, Kakaʻako Waterfront Park.
• Pride 5K Run: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Magic Island, supporting Spill the Tea Café.
• Pride Parade: Saturday, October 17, 2026, in the afternoon.
• For more information on upcoming events/street closures, visit: https://www.honolulu.gov/dts/2026-events/

Recovery Grants: The Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) and the Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi have partnered to make $3.35M in recovery grants available to help affected businesses recover and rebuild.
• Website: https://www.oahukonalowrecovery.org/
• Flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q-T7RbXfI1ga-fFjb0LBFCQuv6HRLFcl/view

Social Media:
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlaMoanaKakaakoNB11
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alamoanakakaakonb11/

Next Meetings:
• Action Committee Meeting: Thursday, October 8, 2026.
• Regular Board Meeting: Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

The ʻŌlelo Broadcasts: Recordings of the meetings are broadcast on ʻŌlelo 49 on the first and third Thursdays at 8:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m., and every second Sunday at 6:00 p.m. The full schedule is at https://olelo.org/tv-schedule/. Recordings may also be viewed at https://olelo.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=20.

10. ADJOURNMENT -- [2:42:03]: Chair Lee adjourned the meeting at 8:44 p.m.

Submitted by: Kelly Nakamura, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Rachel Cristobal, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Finalized by:

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