Contact Us Subscribe
  1. Back
  2. Current News
  3. News Archive
With Permission / Courtesy of: City and County of Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office

Ala Moana-Kakaako Neighborhood Board No. 11

 

July 2021 Minutes

 



DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

TUESDAY, JULY 27, 2021, 6:30 P.M.

KAPALAMA HALE, 925 DILLINGHAM BOULEVARD, ROOM 153

AND ON ZOOM

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Pro Tem Ryan Tam called the meeting to order at 6:38 p.m. Quorum was established with nine (9) members present. (Note: This 11-member Board requires six (6) members to establish quorum and to take official Board action. Chair Tam welcomed attendees to the Tuesday, July 27, 2021 regular monthly meeting of the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 at Kapalama Hale and on Zoom. Note: Names are not included if not legible on guest sheet or is a phone number on zoom.

Board Members Present: Rodney Chang, Dyson Chee, Kim Coco Iwamoto, Kathleen Lee, Joshua Nam, Ryan Tam, Jason Wong, Melissa Wong, and Michael Zehner.

Board Members Absent: Ron Komine Jr.

Guests: Captain Casey Ferrera (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Steve Keogh (Honolulu Police Department); Culture and Arts Executive Director Makanani Sala (Mayor Blangiardi's Representative), Councilmember Carol Fukunaga, Council Member Calvin Say, Brandon Sekiya (Councilmember Say's Office); Cindy McMillan (Governor David Ige's Represenative), Council Chair Tommy Waters, State Representative Adrian Tam, State House Speaker Scott Saiki; Michelle Matsumori-Kelly, Lindsay Pacheco (Hui Aloha / KPOK), Caroline Faringer; Craig Nakamoto (HCDA); Marilyn Leimomi Khan, Ronald Higa, Lynn Mariano (Residents); and Spencer Johnson (Neighborhood Commission Office). There were 48 total attendees.

OATH OF OFFICE - Neighborhood Assistant Johnson performed the Oath of office, officially swearing-in board members Rodney Chang, Dyson Chee, Kathleen Lee, Melissa Wong, and Michael Zehner.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS TO SERVE FROM JULY 1, 2021 TO JUNE 30, 2020

The officers to be elected are the Chair, one or more Vice Chairs, a Secretary, a Treasurer, and any other officer(s) determined to be needed to conduct the board's business [NP §2-14-120(b)].

Chair Pro Tem Tam called for nominations for Board Chair. Chang nominated Ryan Tam as Chair. Hearing no other nominations, Ryan Tam was elected Board Chair by Unanimous Consent 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None.)

Chair Tam called for nominations for Board Vice Chair. Chang nominated Michael Zehner as Vice Chair. Iwamoto nominated Kathleen Lee as First Vice Chair. Zehner self-nominated himself as Second Vice Chair. Hearing no other nominations, Lee was elected First Vice Chair, and Zehner was elected Second Vice Chair by Unanimous Consent 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None.)

Chair Tam called for nominations for Board Secretary. Hearing no nominations, Chair Tam Differed this item to the next meeting.

Chair Tam called for nominations for Board Treasurer. Lee nominated Kim Coco Iwamoto for Treasurer. Hearing no other nominations, Lee was elected First Vice Chair, and Zehner was elected Second Vice Chair by Unanimous Consent 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None.)

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD): Captain Casey Ferrera reported the fire statistics and barbeque/grilling tips which can be found at https://fire.honolulu.gov/.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD): Sergeant Steve Keogh reported crime statistics and hurricane safety tips which can be found at www.honolulupd.org.

Questions comments, and concerns followed.

1. Investigations: Iwamoto inquired about solved crime statistics.

2. Fraud: Khan inquired about the statistics on forged checks.

FILLING OF VACANCIES: Sub district 1: This item was deferred.

BOARD ADMINISTRATION

Meeting Determination Date/Time/Location: (August 2021 to June 2022)

Chair Tam noted the current date is the fourth Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Kapalama Hale and via Zoom, until an alternative location can be secured.

Iwamoto proposed starting the meeting earlier, at 5:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. Discussion followed.

In Favor: Chee agreed, and commented it would increase youth involvement. Lee commented an earlier start time would result in an earlier adjournment. Nam commented he preferred a 6:00 p.m. start, allowing additional time for workers. M. Wong agreed with Nam's comments. J. Wong suggested 5:45 p.m. Zehner was in favor of starting the meeting at 6:00 p.m. and suggested adding an end time of 8:30 p.m. Chair Tam commented that if the board starts at 6:00 p.m., the meeting should conclude by 8:30 p.m.

Opposed: Chang commented he preferred the current time.

Iwamoto Moved and Zehner Seconded the Motion to hold Board Meetings on the fourth Tuesday, at 6:00 p.m., at Kapalama Hale.

Neighborhood Assistant Johnson requested the Board's consideration to use the application Webex for virtual attendance.

Discussion: Iwamoto commented she can use either application, but preferred Zoom over Webex. Chang commented he was comfortable with both applications. Chee and Lee commented they knew how to use both, suggesting the majority preferred Zoom. Nam preferred Zoom and asked why Webex would be considered. Johnson commented that the Kapalama Conference Room has a Webex video system, which is not compatible with Zoom meetings. Johnson also noted that the Webex recording is able to transcribe text from the audio, assisting with the record. J. Wong supported Webex. M. Wong commented no preference, stating she was open to the change. Zehner preferred Zoom. Tam commented he used Webex during the day, and Zoom can be easier from a community standpoint. Resident Khan commented in support of Zoom.

Iwamoto Moved and Zehner Seconded the Motion to hold Board Meetings on the fourth Tuesday, at 6:00 p.m., at Kapalama Hale AND on Zoom. The Motion PASSED via Roll Call Vote 8-1-0; (Aye: Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: Chang; Abstain: None).

Determination of Board Recess Schedule: (August 2021 to June 2022)

Chair Tam noted the Board usually recessed in December, stating the board is allowed two (2) recesses annually.

Chang Moved and Zehner Seconded the Motion to Recess in the month of December, 2021. Hearing no objection, the Motion PASSED by Unanimous Consent, 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Request to participate in the lelo broadcast program or to request funds for an annual newsletter

Zehner Moved and Chee Seconded the Motion to participate in the lelo broadcast program. Hearing no objection, the Motion PASSED by Unanimous Consent, 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Adoption of Oral Testimony Rules

Chair Tam noted the Board's previous rules of speaking.

Zehner Moved and Chang Seconded the Motion to adopt the current Oral Testimony Rules of Speaking. Hearing no objection, the Motion PASSED by Unanimous Consent, 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Consider formation of Community Action Committee

Chair Tam provided a background on the Community Action Committee.

Resident Mariano shared his support of the Community Action Committee.

Iwamoto Moved and Nam Seconded the Motion to retain the Community Action Committee. Hearning no objection, The Motion PASSED by Unanimous Consent, 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

PRESENTATIONS

Homelessness Strategy Update - Executive Director Anton Krucky, Mayor's Office of Housing presented the following. Homeless population numbers in some areas have gone down. There are currently about 30-40 houseless individuals living around Ala Moana/Kakaako, less than the previous estimate of 80-120. Most of these individuals are new to the area, migrating from Waikiki. The population is scattered throughout the Ala Moana/Kaka'ako area with a majority at Ala Moana Beach Park. The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) was notified about the violent encampment near the Banyan Tree at Ala Moana Beach Park. In Kaka'ako, Halekauwila Senior Living area reported homeless individuals blocking the sidewalk with their tents. Outreach is handled by Hawaii Health Harm and Reduction (H3RC), and the HELP program combines outreach with HPD patrols. Homeless individuals must have the desire to find housing, and make the decision for themselves. The City's strategy is to create as many possible options for individuals to receive assistance. Starting on Friday, January 1, 2021 to Friday, July 16, 2021, the HONU project (Homeless Outreach and Navigation for Unsheltered Persons) at Keehi Lagoon assisted with 252 total placements. There were 195 individuals moved into homeless shelters, nine (9) who found treatment, 15 were relocated out of Oahu, 19 were reunited with family members, and 14 found permanent housing. The HONU project, staffed by HPD and funded by the State, will have one shelter near the urban core, and another shelter located in a less populated, more rural area. The other HONU location is currently in Whitmore Village. Each HONU site provides transportation to and from, with 40 beds at each site. Another new initiative the City is working on is C.O.R.E (Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement), providing a response to homeless-related 911 calls other than HPD. This project would divert 911 calls related to homeless issues to a trained outreach specialist, responding to provide psychiatric and medical assistance. The CORE team will occasionally partner with HPD to provide security and assistance. Contact the Office of Housing and Homelessness at: (808)768-4675 or email officeofhousing@honolulu.gov.

Questions comments and concerns followed.

1. CORE Launch: Lee asked if the core program launch in September will be a public launch. Lee asked how the houseless community is notified of these new programs.

2. Lack of Homes: Iwamoto commented on the projection that if all the individuals on Oahu lived in a dwelling, there would still be 3,000 individuals without a shelter.

3. Restrooms: Iwamoto asked why restrooms have been closed at night.

4. Evictions: M. Wong inquired about statistics of residents effected by the end of the eviction moratorium.

5. CORE Education: Resident Mariano inquired about expanding the Core project by including education and basic skills training.

BOARD BUSINESS

Approval of Tuesday, January 26, 2021: Not available at this time.

Tuesday, and June 22, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes: Chair Tam inquired if there were any amendments to the June 22, 2021 Minutes.

Hearing no objections, the June 22, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes were Approved AS WRITTEN 9-0-0; (Aye: Chang, Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, J. Wong, M. Wong, Zehner; Nay: None; Abstain: None.)

Attendance at other meetings: None

Neighborhood Updates: Neighborhood Security Watch: Lindsay Pacheco, a resident of the Ola Ka Ôllima Artspace Lofts in Kakaako on Waimanu Street, announced the formation of a neighborhood Security watch on Thursday, July 29, 2021. There will be a training session at 5:30 p.m. with Officer Ho.

Treasurer's Report: Chair Tam reported the July expenditures were $28.75 with a remaining balance of $554.25.

Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizen's Advisory Committee: Chair Tam provided a brief description of the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization. Resident Mariano supported this Committee. Chair Tam deferred this item to August.

NEW BUSINESS (DISCUSSION/ACTION)

Discuss/Consider Resolution to Support Lowering the Voting Age to Sixteen Years of Age:

Chee gave a background on reasons why the voting age should be lowered primarily for Neighborhood Board elections. This resolution would request the Neighborhood Commission to consider lowering the voting age. Chee commented that 16 and 17 year olds are mature enough to vote, and are able to make conscious decisions. Iwamoto supported this resolution, mentioning taxation without representation. Zehner expressed his opposition of this resolution. Chee added comments about cold cognition and hot cognition, and how cold cognition is tied to logical things that do not give you much feelings or emotion. Chee explained that hot cognition is something that makes you feel differently like drinking and smoking, explaining why there are different age requirements for different things. Zehner opposed Chee's comments. Chang commented the voting age in Hawaii is currently 18 years old. Chair Tam shared the proposed resolution on screen. Chee added that every age group has the population of individuals who make uninformed decisions. Resident Khan commented that 16 and 17 year olds are more than capable of speaking about world issues, and can bring insight. Nam supported the resolution, commenting that it will help educate them on local legislature and be able to make decisions that impact them. Resident Mariano commented this is a very important topic, and should be looked at further. Iwamoto asked if a motion can be revisited if it fails. Chair Tam indicated that it can be brought up again. Lee supported this resolution. M. Wong stated that she needs more time to review the resolution before voting in favor. Zehner commented on the history of youth rule. Councilmember Say commented that this resolution is only urging, it is not the final vote to law, and expressed encouragement for member Chee. Culture and Arts Executive Director Sala commented on the Youth Commission. Representative Tam supported the resolution, commenting on taxation without representation. Council Chair Waters supported this resolution.

Iwamoto Moved and Chee Seconded the motion to adopt the Resolution supporting lowering the voting age to sixteen years of age. The motion PASSED via roll call vote; (6-3-0) (Aye: Chee, Iwamoto, Lee, Nam, Tam, M. Wong; Nay: Chang, J. Wong, Zehner; Abstain: None).

Discuss/Consider Resolution Regarding Ala Wai Promenade Improvements: Chair Tam reported the resolution has not been finalized. This item was deferred.

Discuss Ala Moana Transit Oriented Development Plan: This item was deferred.

Residential Development in Kaka ako (Makai of Ala Moana Boulevard): Chair Tam gave a brief background on this topic. The President of Friends of Kewalos, Iwami requested the support of this board to prevent development on the Makai side of Ala Moana Boulevard.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed. Undecided: Resident Khan requested more time to discuss with Mr. Iwami and a chance to hear from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA).

RESIDENTS' AND COMMUINITY CONCERNS:

925 Cedar Street: Resident Hayakawa inquired about an update regarding the homeless issue at the old Meadow Gold facility. Hayakawa reported reaching out to the owner, raising concerns that the issue has not been resolved, he reported the installation of an air conditioning unit.

Pensacola Parking Stall: Resident Mariano raised concerns regarding a hazardous parking stall in front of Inspiration Furniture. Mariano reported an accident involving a delivery worker.

ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS

Mayor Rick Blangiardi: Culture and Arts Executive Director Makanani Sala was available for questions.

Councilmember Carol Fukunaga: Councilmember Fukunaga was available for questions.

Councilmember Calvin Say: Councilmember Say was available for questions.

Council Chair Tommy Waters: Chair Waters reported the following:

• Boards: Chair Waters reported attending the Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board on the same date as Ala Moana Neighborhood Board meetings.

• Covid-19 Vaccination: Chair Waters encouraged the public to get vaccinated.

State Representative Adrian Tam: Representative Tam was available for questions.

State House Speaker Scott Saiki: Speaker Saiki reported the following:

• Hotel Charge: A Bill was made into law requiring an extra tax for hotels and vacation rentals.

• Covid-19 Vaccination: HPA mass vaccination center at Pier 2 will close on Friday July 30, 2021 and will be moved to Kapiolani Medical Center.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki: No representative present, no report given.

Governor David Ige: Communications Director Cindy McMillan reported the following.

• Eviction Help: McMillan provided a resource for eviction management.

U.S. Congressman Ed Case: No representative present, no report given.

AGENCY REPORTS

Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA): Craig Nakamoto of HCDA reported the following.

• July Newsletter: The July Newsletter and other updates were sent to Chair Tam.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit (HART): No representative present, a report was sent.

Board of Water Supply (BWS): Chair Tam read from a BWS report.

Breaks: There were no water main breaks.

Mapping: A new technology using GPS will be used to map out valves, meters, and hydrants.

Water Conservation: Reminder to conserve water in apartment buildings.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Permit Reviews: Development proposals that require neighborhood board input are posted at: http://www.honoluludpp.org/ApplicationsForms/ZoningandLandUsePermits/NeighborhoodBoardMaterials.aspx.

• Next Meeting - The next regular meeting of the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 is scheduled for Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at Kapalama Hale and on Zoom.

• 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. or 2:00 p.m., and every second Sunday at 6:00 p.m. The full schedule is at https://olelo.org/tv-schedule/) or full archive at https://www.honolulu.gov/cms-nco-menu/site-nco-sitearticles/1657-board-meeting-video-archive.html.

ADJOURNMENT - As there was no further business before the Board, Chair Tam adjourned the meeting at 8:51 p.m.

Submitted by: Spencer Johnson, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed by:

Finalized by:

Last Updated: 18 August 2021
  1. Back
  2. Current News
  3. News Archive

Like Our Facebook

  • RELATED LINKS
    Please send questions about this website to webmaster
    Copyright© 2014 - 2026 KakaakoHawaii.com. All rights reserved.
    Terms of Use / Legal Disclaimer / Privacy Statement
    Site Designed and Managed by MacBusiness Consulting