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

WAIKĪKĪ NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 9

REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 at 6:00 P.M.

WAIKĪKĪ COMMUNITY CENTER -- 310 PAOAKALANI AVENUE, HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI, 96815

AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING

Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLRAgMTDYtU

Reports & other meeting materials can be found at:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U5LqhO7cjTWUAsZeSiesn99MJa87ouZE

I. CALL TO ORDER -- [0:00:07]: Chair Robert Finley called the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board No. 9 regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Quorum was established with 12 board members present. Note -- This 17-member Board requires nine (9) members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action. Board members must be in-person or have video access.

Board Members Present: Jillian Anderson, Rolf Nordahl, Cory D'Orazio, Louis Erteschik, Robert Finley, Tim Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Jeffrey Merz, Nate Serota, Sarah Worth, Shannon Smith (WebEx), Shotaro Dabbs (6:14 p.m. via WebEx), and Reine Ah Moo (7:09 p.m. via WebEx).

Board Members Absent: Lisa Cabanero, Melissa Filek, and Kathryn Henski.

Guests: Lieutenant Steve Kio and Sergeant Cyrus Hanuna (Honolulu Police Department); Dominic Das (Board of Water Supply); Director Nola Miyasaki (Mayor's Representative); Adam Doo (Council Chair Tommy Waters); Alexander Ozawa (Senator Sharon Moriwaki); Rick Egged (Waikīkī Improvement Association); Claire Elverum and Matt Ramsey (Conservation International) Julie Morikawa (ClimbHI); Paula Bender (Hawaiʻi Bicycling League); Eric, Kate Thompson, Greg Misakian, John Deutzman, Tim Garry, Geia Adachi, David Chung, Martin, Caroline Brimblecombe, Richard Byron, Katherine Li, Wes, Jacob Wiencek, Linda West, Eric, Amy Ammen, Sally, Bryson Gonzalez, Marissa Ho, Mike Buck, Chin, Linyan Goo, Lawrence T., Patsy Vasquez, Sharon Shanley (Resident), Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were 50 total participants.

II. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS -- [0:00:30]

Honolulu Fire Department -- [0:00:32]: No representative was present. A report was provided.

· Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MSyCM338Q4o5ko7zCfOPA33h-WvYF3ez/view?usp=drive_link

Honolulu Police Department -- [0:00:52]: Lieutenant Steve Kio provided the following report:

· August 2025 Statistics: There were robberies, 6 burglaries, 148 thefts, 7 car break-ins, 48 assaults, 5 sex crimes,13 speeding citations, 2,296 parking citations, 14 loud muffler citations, 34 park closure citations with 25 arrests, and 4,926 total calls for service.

· Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d0SVPCxopkiitdVGZFymKCoiAbBlMAtf/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [0:03:05]

1. Bird Feeding Concerns: Resident Eric raised concerns about a resident feeding birds in the area. Lieutenant Kio explained that enforcement requires posted signage prohibiting bird feeding, and recommended contacting HPD if such signs exist in the affected park areas.

2. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Statistics: Lieutenant Kio informed the residents that there were 26 DUI arrests for the month of August 2025.

3. Zoo Parking Lot Noise Reduction: Resident Deutzman thanked HPD for addressing noise issues at the zoo parking lot, noting significant improvement with only one incident during Labor Day weekend. Lieutenant Kio confirmed this was a deliberate effort with officers posted between calls for service.

4. Police Coverage: Resident Garry questions if the Makai side of Ala Wai Road is part of Lieutenant Kio district. Lieutenant Kio explained that the library at the Ala Wai Golf Course is not their district and provided further information.

5. Homeless Encampment: Resident Gary Reported that homeless individuals had moved across the road from the Ala Wai Golf Course to an area near the library after the golf course area was cleaned and "no trespassing" signs were posted. He expressed frustration to city officials. Resident Katherine added more information regarding the homeless encampment near the Ala Wai. Lieutenant Kio acknowledged regarding to enforcement and explained that when officers clear one area, individuals often move to another location.

6. Ala Wai Boat Harbor Parking Enforcement: Resident Thompson asked about parking enforcement at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor. Lieutenant Kio clarified that HPD does not routinely issue parking tickets there except for park closure violations, as some areas are private parking.

7. Motorcycle Noise Reduction: Member Nordahl thanked HPD for addressing motorcycle noise issues, noting that motorcyclists now gather but don't rev engines continuously.

8. Ride Along forms: Member Huycke asked if Lieutenant Kio has any ride along forms. Lieutenant Kio has brought ride along forms.

Dabbs arrived to the meeting at (6:14 p.m.); 13 members present.

9. Law Enforcement Philosophy: Member Huycke asked about HPD's approach to enforces the spirit of the law versus letter of the law. Lieutenant Kio explained that officers are trained to be good listeners and use discretion in most cases, though certain situations like domestic violence, if it fits a criterion, may require mandatory arrest.

10. Total Call for Service: Member Huycke wanted an explanation of the criteria of the number of total calls for service. Lieutenant Kio explained that total calls for services are dispatch calls and calls for 911.

11. Domestic Violence Enforcement: Resident Misakian referenced a Civil Beat article about a retired HPD officer involved in a domestic violence incident where responding officers failed to make an arrest. Lieutenant Kio acknowledged this was a mishandled case and the officers were disciplined, emphasizing that this was not representative of HPD's standard response to domestic violence calls. Member Worth reminded everyone that Lieutenant Kio reports to their district and not all of HPD.

Board of Water Supply -- [0:24:51]: Dominic Das provided the following report:

· Main Breaks: No water main breaks in August 2025.

· Current Construction Projects: None reported.

· General Announcement: The Board of Water Supply will participate in the "Imagine a Day Without Water" event on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Windward Mall, featuring interactive displays, educational opportunities, water conservation information, prizes, and rain catchment barrel giveaways.

· Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1p2X3rwU83paWXpSlWdpYgz4CKCZOCH3d/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [0:25:51]

1. Meeting Frequency: Member K. Jacob suggested that the Board of Water Supply representative could attend quarterly rather than monthly and submit written reports for other months. Dias noted that BWS aims to attend all neighborhood board meetings, but is open to alternative arrangements.

Ocean Safety Department (HOSD) -- [0:27:34]: No representative present.

[0:27:53] -- Ken Jacob MOVED to have BWS attend quarterly rather than monthly. Chair Finley will check with the Neighborhood Commission. Member Worth clarified that HFD and HPD have to be second or first on the agenda and BWS is not required. Chair Finley will put this item in the next agenda.

III. CITIZENS' CONCERNS -- [0:29:49]

Traffic Light Timing -- [0:30:09]: Resident Li reported that the traffic light at ʻŌhua Avenue turning onto Kūhiō Avenue is too short, causing impatient drivers to honk at pedestrians crossing the street and requested an extension of the light timing.

Repeat Offender Statistics -- [0:31:23]: Resident Deutzman shared statistics from his Safe and Sound project, reporting that of 968 arrests tracked over 12 months, 64 individuals were arrested at least three times, with one person arrested 23 times. He noted that 76% of those arrested showed indications of living on the street and emphasized the burden repeat offenders place on police resources.

Various Concerns -- [0:33:38]: Resident Garry wants an update on the removal of the red stripping on Kūhiō bus lane and shared his text message with Mayor Blangiardi regarding the approach to crime in Waikīkī, encouraging residents to report incidents to HPD. He described a recent incident where he called HPD about a mentally ill woman lying in the middle of Kalākaua Avenue.

Dabbs left the meeting at (6:35 p.m.); 12 members present.

Ala Wai Boat Harbor Parking Enforcement -- [0:35:55]: Resident Thompson expressed concern that the only parking enforcement at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor is towing, with no ticketing phase. Resident Thompson explained that DLNR's contract with Secure Parking provides meter information directly to the tow company, resulting in approximately 2,500 cars towed last year with only four tickets issued. Resident Thompson requested the board consider writing a letter supporting a ticketing phase before towing. Member Erteschik agrees with residents Thompson. Member Daniel Jacob suggested resident Thompson to write a letter and present it to the board. Member Merz wanted clarification creating a resolution regarding the towing of cars at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor.

Late Night Garbage Pickup Town Hall -- [0:39:26]: Resident Chin provided information about an upcoming town hall meeting organized by the Mayor's Office regarding late-night garbage pickups in Waikīkī. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Waikīkī Community Center. Resident Chin questions who will be attending the meeting and asked which board members will be attending the meeting. Resident Chin requested that the meeting should be more than an hour and is there any notice sent to the public. Member Nordahl asked if the ratepayers are invited. Member Serota will talk with organizers of the event and suggested the meeting should have formal public notice and a early starting time.

Civil Beat Article -- [0:44:23]: Resident Misakian suggested residents to read a recent Civil Beat Article regarding HPD officerʻs domestic abuse. Resident Misakian suggested to have this being a talking point at the next Public Safety Committee.

IV. UNFINISHED BOARD BUSNIESS -- [0:48:58]

Revisit to State of Hawaiʻi Crime Prevention Program for Waikīkī -- [0:48:58]: No representative present. Member Nordahl shared that his building had met with the organization and agreed to provide video access and space for drones on their rooftop. The program would allow drones to respond to police calls within 30 seconds.

[0:51:41] -- Nordahl MOVED AND K. Jacob SECONDED in support of the concept of the State of Hawaiʻi Crime Prevention Program. Discussion followed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [0:52:01]

1. Previous Presentation Status: Resident Deutzman noted that the board was in the middle of a vote on this program at a previous meeting and believes that Mike Lamber (Department of Public Safety representative) does not need to return to the meeting. Member Erteschik expressed support for the concept, noting that if board members had all heard the presentation and were comfortable with what was proposed, they could proceed with a vote despite the representative's absence.

2. Cybersecurity Concerns: Resident Wiencek expressed support for the concept but emphasized the need for proper cybersecurity safeguards to protect collected data and ensure privacy and civil liberties protections. Resident Wiencek noted that malign actors could potentially access and manipulate the data, which would reduce trust in law enforcement. Member Nordahl, stated that the organization has established secure programs. Member Nordahl also added that his building always sends contracts to legal representatives for review before execution.

3. Law Enforcement Information Sharing: Member Huycke asked about procedures for dealing with requests from other law enforcement agencies, specifically wondering if ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) requested information, whether it would be provided or if the system was only for Hawaiʻi law enforcement. Chair Finley stated that based on the presentation, the system was from the State of Hawaiʻi to HPD alone with no mention of sharing information outside the state.

4. Presentation Documentation: Resident Misakian asked if the board was voting based on the PowerPoint presentation previously provided and whether there was any legal documentation showing what the Department of Law Enforcement was planning to do in writing. Chair Finley confirmed the presentation was available on Google Drive as indicated on the agenda.

[0:57:04] -- Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 12-0-0 (AYE: Anderson, Nordahl, D' Orazio, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Merz, Serota, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) -- [0:57:08].

V. SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS -- [0:58:07]

Chair Finley presented the schedule of upcoming major parades and street events:

· Saturday, September 20, 2025, 2:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.: Aloha Festivals Waikīkī Hoʻolauleʻa street event

· Saturday, September 27, 2025, 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.: Aloha Festival's 79th Annual Floral Parade

· Sunday, September 28, 2025, 5:00 a.m. to noon: Honolulu Century Bike Ride (mostly on East Oʻahu)

· Saturday, October 11, 2025, 2:00 p.m. to midnight: Flavors of Hawaiʻi Festival

· Sunday, October 12, 2025, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.: More Than Pink by Susan G. Coleman at Kapiʻolani Park

· Saturday, October 18, 2025, 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.: Hawaiʻi Pride Parade

· Saturday, November 8, 2025, 2:00 p.m. to midnight: Oʻahu Festival

· Sunday, November 9, 2025, 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.: Val Nosakai Half Marathon at Kapiʻolani Park

[1:00:25] -- Member Worth requested more consistency in which events are included in Waikīkī and suggested including links to events since streets often close 1.5-2 hours before events begin.

VI. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE -- [1:01:05]

Chair Finley reported on the following liquor license applications:

· Aina Steak and Seafood, 342 Lewers Street, second floor: Category 2 license (hearing already held in August)

· International Marketplace: Special 1-day event on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

· Cajun Crab, 226 Lewers Street: Special license from October to December 2025 until their regular license can be considered

VII. ELECTED OFFICIALS -- [1:02:04]

Mayor Rick Blangiardi's Representative -- [1:02:28]: Director Nola Miyasaki provided the following report:

· Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Meeting: The HUD Region IX Administrator met with all mayors in the state of Hawaiʻi to affirm commitment to addressing homelessness and affordable housing.

· Rail Progress: The rail project broke ground on stations across the third segment from Kalihi to Kakaʻako.

· Junior Lifeguards: Honolulu's junior lifeguards won the state championship on Maui.

Director Miyasaki also provided updates to questions asked in the previous meeting:

· Tusitala Street Repaving: The street has been on the list for rehabilitation since FY2023. The Department of Facilities Management will schedule temporary in-house repairs on the Makai side of Tusitala Street by the end of 2025.

· Blocked Sidewalk Indicators: Several service requests have been addressed, including completed sidewalk reconstruction at 2463 and 2270 Kūhiō Avenue. Work at 2211 Kūhiō Avenue and 400 Royal Hawaiʻian Avenue is in progress.

· Rooster Population: For feral chickens, residents can contact contractor Sandwich Isle Pest Control at 808-900-6984. Trapping on city property is available at no charge, while trapping on private property is available for a fee.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:08:38]

Ah Moo arrived to the meeting at (7:09 p.m.); 13 members present.

1. Flagstone Steps Safety: Resident Misakian presented photos of steps at the State Capitol with tape marking the edges to prevent falls, suggesting similar treatment for flagstone steps at a building in Waikīkī where people have been injured due to lack of contrast between steps.

2. Kalākaua Statue Fountain: Member Merz asked about repairs to the non-functioning Kalākaua statue fountain at the triangle park where Kūhiō breaks from Kalākaua.

3. Building Permit Status: Member Merz requested an update on any building permits issued for the property next to 1717 Ala Wai Boulevard. Director Miyasaki will report it back.

4. Waikīkī Memorial Natatorium: Resident Wiencek expressed profound disappointment in the Mayor's comments about the future of the Waikīkī Memorial Natatorium, which commemorates those who served and sacrificed in World War I.

5. Police Commission Reform: Resident Wiencek expressed support for the Mayor's proposal to remove the Honolulu Police Commission's power to appoint and fire the current Police Commissioner, stating that this power should reside directly with the Mayor to enhance public accountability. He suggested the Mayor should have the power to nominate the Police Chief for City Council approval and to fire for cause.

6. Sidewalk Repairs on Kūhiō Avenue: Multiple board members and residents expressed frustration with the prolonged sidewalk repairs on Kūhiō Avenue, noting that work has been ongoing for six weeks with inadequate signage, forcing pedestrians to walk in the bus lane.

7. Kūhiō Avenue Bus Lane: Member Huycke repeated his dissatisfaction with the Department of Transportation Services' handling of the Kūhiō Avenue bus lane.

8. Double-Decker Bus Tree Clearance: Chair Finley reported that double-decker tour buses cannot stay in the bus lane because trees are too low, asked which department would be responsible for addressing this issue, and if there's a standard.

Councilmember Tommy Waters (Council District 6) -- [1:21:46]: Representative Adam Doo from Councilmember Waters's office provided the following report:

· Traffic Management: The office received two constituent concerns about traffic backlog during the past weekend's summer festival that shut down Kalākaua Avenue. DTS and HPD have been asked to investigate traffic management at intersections and will provide an update in the next meeting.

· Ordinance 25-10 (formerly Bill 50): This ordinance applies to Waikīkī parades and street festival permits issued for 2026 and thereafter, reducing non-legacy street festivals from 12 to six per year and promoting cultural and community events in other areas.

· Property Tax Relief: Bills 49 and 50 (2025) passed third and final reading, increasing the home exemption to $140,000 and the kūpuna exemption to $180,000 starting in 2027, providing hundreds of dollars in annual property tax savings. Both bills raise the home exemption by 20,000 for homeowners under 65 and 65 and older.

· Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11WRbAxzS4vtvO4n-TG-XRhIlTnJsgKhi/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:24:40]

1. Law Enforcement Identification: Member Huycke asked if Councilmember Waters would introduce an ordinance requiring anyone enforcing a law in the City and County of Honolulu to identify themselves. Representative Doo will follow up with Councilmember Chair Waters.

2. In-Person Attendance Request: Resident Wiencek requested that Councilmember Waters to attend the next neighborhood board meeting in person.

3. Bill Support: Resident Wiencek expressed support for Bills 50, 49, 46, and 60, and opposition to Bill 53 which would reimpose parking minimums. Representative Doo will follow up with Councilmember Chair Waters.

4. Traffic Management at Events: Resident Garry suggested that event sponsors should be required to provide police officers at every intersection on Kūhiō going out to Kapahulu, on the Ala Wai to McCully during parades and festivals to manage traffic flow.

5. Parking Minimums: Member Merz agrees with and Resident Wiencek opposition to Bill 53 and questions who is sponsoring this bill. Representative Doo clarified that the bill was introduced Councilmember Scott Nishimoto.

6. Tax Exemption: Member Ah Moo thanked Councilmember's Waters in increasing the real property tax exemption. Resident Ammen asked for clarification on the property tax exemptions. Representative Doo explained that the bills increase existing property tax exemptions by $20,000, raising them from $120,000 to $140,000 for homeowners under 65, and from $160,000 to $180,000 for kūpuna (seniors) over 65. When asked when this would take effect, Representative Doo confirmed it would begin in 2027.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki (Senate District 12) -- [1:33:44]: Representative Alexander Ozawa from Senator Moriwaki office provided the following report:

· Disaster Preparedness Fair: Senator Moriwaki is hosting a disaster preparedness fair on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hoʻokupu Center at Kewalo Basin 1125 Ala Moana, featuring representatives from state and city agencies and private organizations.

· Town Hall: Senator Moriwaki will join Representative Adrian Tam for a town hall on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Waikīkī Community Center.

· Legislative Survey: Residents are encouraged to take Senator Moriwaki's survey, which directly impacts legislation introduced in the next session.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:35:33]

1. Special Session: Member Huycke asked if Senator Moriwaki supports calling a special session and would introduce legislation requiring anyone enforcing a law in Hawaiʻi to identify themselves. Representative Ozawa will provide an update in the next meeting.

2. Correctional Facilities Funding: Resident Wiencek emphasized the need for proper funding for renovations of correctional facilities, noting recent scandals, safety concerns, and lack of mental health services at Oʻahu Community Correctional Center.

3. Town Hall: Resident Misakian asked Representative Ozawa to reiterate the Town Hall date and its purpose. Representative Ozawa clarified that the townhall will be at the Waikīkī Community Center on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and it will be a general town hall. Representative Ozawa also reiterated the disaster preparedness fair on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hoʻokupu Center at Kewalo Basin.

4. New Zealand Trip: Resident Misakian asked if Senator Moriwaki was participating in a trip to New Zealand with approximately 26 people. Representative Ozawa confirmed Senator Moriwaki was invited, but declined due to work commitments in Hawaiʻi.

Representative Adrian Tam -- [1:41:38]: No representative present.

Governors Representative -- [1:41:38]: No representative present.

VIII. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION -- [1:41:51]

Presentation to update Waikīkī Neighborhood on Commercial Events that impact the community -- [1:42:13]: Rick Egged provided information on upcoming events:

· Waikīkī Transportation Management Association Design Workshop: Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites by Hilton Beachwalk, focusing on safety, traffic, and parking on the Waikīkī Beach Walk Plaza section of Lewers Street.

· Aloha Festivals: The 79th annual festival will feature five entertainment stages (up from three last year). The annual parade on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. is the largest parade in the state.

· Kūhiō Beach Hula Show: Free shows every Saturday evening for the rest of the year, except for the upcoming Saturday, due to the Fiji Tribute Concert.

· WOW Beach Cleanup: October 25, 2025, for National Make a Difference Day.

· Sunset on the Beach: Final event of the year on Saturday, September 27, 2025, featuring the movie "If," sponsored by Southwest Airlines.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:44:25]

1. Waikīkī Improvement Association (WIA) Monthly Reporting Objection: Member Worth objected to having the Waikīkī Improvement Association report monthly, noting it represents a private corporation rather than a community service organization, and requested that the Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID) be invited to present instead. Rick Egged noted that WIA started the WBID organization and could provide more reports on their activities. Member Worth clarified that according to Trevor from WBID, the two organizations are separate and should not be lumped together.

2. Fiji Tribute Concert Information: Member Serota provided additional information about the Fiji Tribute Concert on Sunday, September 14, 2025 noting it is a free concert at the Shell in honor of the late artist Fiji, with tens of thousands of people expected to attend. He mentioned there would be parking restrictions and encouraged people to watch the livestream rather than attending in person if possible.

3. Waikīkī Transportation Management Association Questions: Resident Misakian asked about the Waikīkī Transportation Management Association, including Rick Egged's role as president and how it is funded. Response provided by Rick Egged, who confirmed he is president of the TMA, which is funded by fees that commercial vehicles pay for parking permits. Resident Misakian asked if theres money to pay for staff and him. Egged clarified that he does not get paid directly by the TMA but that they pay a management fee to WIA. Resident Misakian also asked if individual businesses still contributing anything besides the parking stickers or fee like the WIA. Egged clarified no. Resident Misakian also agrees with member Worth as WIA and WBID are separate groups.

IX. NEW BOARD BUSINESS -- [1:50:16]

Reef Frame Project -- [1:50:28]: Claire Elverum and Matt Ramsey from Conservation International, along with Julie Morikawa from ClimbHI, presented on the Reef Frame Project, a coral restoration initiative in Waikīkī:

· Project Overview: A three-year project started in June 2023, funded by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Restoration Center award, to restore coral reefs off Waikīkī in 40--60-foot water depth.

· Technology: Using innovative DryForming technology to create structures that mimic coral reefs, providing habitat for fish and substrate for corals.

· Design: Modules consisting of five units (four on bottom, one on top), approximately 6 feet by 6 feet, designed to withstand a 50-year southern swell.

· Location: The preferred site is outside the ʻĀpuakēhau channel, on a sandy bottom near natural reef structures.

· Installation: 250-350 modules.

· Permitting: The project is going through all required state, federal, city, and county permitting processes.

· Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12U2GPHBSIAqm5fIHojH3nY3FNdMGOYq7/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:03:37]

1. Federal Funding Sources: Member Merz suggested seeking additional funding from the Department of Defense (DOD) and Sea Grant, noting that the Army has a base in Waikīkī. Ramsey confirmed that they are open to additional funding sources and are already working with Sea Grant.

2. Marine Life Protection: Resident Thompson Mentioned seeing whales in the area and asked about protection measures during installation. Ramsey explained that installation would be done carefully by using a barge and crane.

3. Erosion Impact Question: Member Worth asked if the project would help with beach erosion. Ramsey, explained that while the technology could be applied to shoreline protection, this specific project is focused on coral restoration and is designed not to impact wave energy or currents.

4. Beach Restoration Coordination: Members K. Jacob and Worth asked about any coordination with beach restoration projects that pump sand from offshore. Ramsey explained that they are placing modules away from areas that have been dredged in the past and the project will not have any impact.

5. Module Weights: Member Serota asked how heavy the modules are. Elverum explained that each unit is 1 ton and 5-unit modules will equal to 5 tons.

6. Inshore Reefs: Member Serota asked if there's any consideration of inshore areas that would not impact surf. Ramsey explained by having the modules in deeper waters they can avoid interactions with human activities.

7. Federal Budget Cuts: Member Serota asked if they would be impacted by the federal budget cuts. Ramsey explained that they have not been affected by the recent budget cuts.

8. Root Causes Concern: Resident Garry expressed concern that the project doesn't address root causes of reef degradation, such as pollution and human impacts. Ramsey, who acknowledged these concerns but noted that their proof-of-concept tests show corals can thrive in the selected location despite these challenges.

Hawaiʻi Bicycling League (HBL) -- [2:16:19]: Paula Bender from Hawaiʻi Bicycling League presented on the Walk, Bike, Drive program:

· Presentation: Bender expressed alarm at the number of traffic fatalities this year, with 89 statewide and 54 on Oahu alone (double the number at this time last year). She explained that the vulnerable road users law protects everyone including cyclists, pedestrians, e-bike riders, and scooter users. She emphasized the need for courtesy between all road users, noting that drivers should be patient when cyclists need to temporarily enter the traffic lane to pass obstacles.

· Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1C49NZrTYsu-VCKI_hpRKpCAW2e9bmeiJ/view?usp=drive_link

Public Safety Committee Report -- [2:25:29]: Member Anderson reported on the Public Safety Committee meeting held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025:

· Attendance: All five committee members attended, along with Trevor Arberzua of the Waikīkī Business Improvement District Association, three HPD community policing team members, Representative Adrian Tam, and members of the public.

· WBID Presentation: Trevor Arberzua presented on WBID's efforts to combat crime and handle homelessness.

· Problem Areas: The committee identified three "triangle of crime" hotspots: St. Augustine's Church, McDonald's on Kalākaua Avenue, and the cement tables at Kūhiō Beach Park.

· Bill 46: The committee voted 4-1 to recommend board support for Honolulu City Council Bill 46, which would require the Chief of Police to develop procedures for releasing information to the media and public and provide media access to HPD dispatch radio communications.

Bill 46 -- [2:27:24]: [2:27:32] -- Anderson MOVED and Finely SECONDED in support of Bill 46. Discussion followed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:28:13]

1. Media Clarification: Member Worth asked whether the bill would provide unlimited access to all radio communications or if there would be limitations. Member Anderson explained that media would have access to a channel that HPD could turn on and off, but the intention was for media to hear what's happening in real time. Member Worth noted that HPD opposes the bill due to privacy concerns and the potential for information to be disseminated to the public without HPD control.

2. HPD Website Update: Member Serota provided information about a new HPD website launched that day with media releases and digital copies of arrest logs. Member Serota suggested the website could also house disciplinary records, which are currently difficult to find.

3. Media Certification Concerns: Resident Deutzman expressed concern about limiting media access to "certified media" rather than making information available to all, arguing this approach is improper and potentially unconstitutional.

[2:32:55] -- Technical difficulties occurred; video was cut off.

[2:33:21] -- Video restored.

4. HPD Accountability Issues: Resident Garry discussed issues with HPD's internal accountability, noting that the Police Commission sends cases to Standards and Practices (formerly Internal Affairs) but they often downgrade disciplinary actions.

5. HPD Transparency Concerns: Resident Misakian shared concerns about HPD transparency based on recent incidents, including a Civil Beat article about an officer retiring with a large pension despite HPD's attempts to fire him. He also mentioned a case involving arson charges that he believed were based on insufficient evidence.

[2:38:27] -- Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS NOT ADOPTED; 3-4-5 (AYE: Huycke; Daniel Jacob, and Ken Jacob; NAY: Anderson, Nordahl, D'Orazio, and Worth; ABSTAIN: Erteschik, Finley, Merz, Serota, Smith) -- [2:38:39].

Consideration of Three Letters Recommended by the Public Safety Committee [2:40:40]:

Letter to St. Augustine's Church -- [2:40:42]: Member Anderson explained that the letter urges the church to stop food services and to partner with services such as the city's HONU program to connect individuals they feed with outreach services like shelter and job placement, rather than just providing food without additional support.

· Drafted Letter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15vfwf4pqCZL1ELsu6g89A_ALA0SUDe3p/view?usp=drive_link

[2:42:17] -- Huycke MOVED and Anderson SECONDED. To adopt the letter to St. Augustine's Church. Discussion followed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:42:23]

1. Church Feeding Program Concerns: Member Worth argued that people are fed only once a day at the church and questioned whether criminals are really coming to Waikīkī specifically for this one meal. Member Worth expressed discomfort with the neighborhood board attacking a church soup kitchen and suggested that many of the homeless individuals are houseless rather than criminals.

2. Magnet for Problems: Resident Deutzman believes that the church feeding is attracting problematic individuals. He noted that if the church had wraparound services or was serving poor people from Waikīkī, he would support it, but argued that enabling street living shortens lives by 30 years.

3. Father's Cooperation: Member Worth asked if the church's father had been open to having wraparound services. Resident Deutzman explained that initially the father agreed to stop the feeding program, but after Hawaiʻi News Now did a story about the mayor stopping this, but the priest reversed his position.

4. Letter Quality Acknowledgment: Member Erteschik noted the letter was "beautifully written" and attempted to strike a compromise, but expressed doubts about its effectiveness. Member Erteschik suggested having the church come to a board meeting to discuss their program before making a decision. Member Erteschik also argued that not feeding people wouldn't make the problem go away.

5. Church Wealth Criticism: Resident Garry and Ye criticized Father Lane for not opening the church for people to sleep in or using the church's wealth to provide housing.

6. Successful Alternative Model: Member Serota mentioned that River of Life downtown had a similar issue and successfully switched to mobile feeding stations at different locations, reducing the concentration of homeless individuals in one area. Member Serota noted that the HONU program can transport people to transitional shelters for wraparound services.

7. Board Authority Clarification: Chair Finley noted that the city charter gives the board no authority except to recommend and suggest, making this letter appropriate as a recommendation to improve Waikīkī. No specific response required.

[2:52:10] -- Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 10-2-0 (AYE: Anderson, Nordahl, D'Orazio, Finley, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Merz, Serota, and Smith; NAY: Erteschik and Worth; ABSTAIN: None) -- [2:52:17].

Letter to McDonald's Regarding Hiring Private Security and Letter to the City and County to Remove Concrete Tables at Kūhiō Beach -- [2:53:45]: Member Anderson explains that letter requests that corporate McDonald's reinstate private security at their Kalākaua Avenue location across from Kūhiō Beach, which was discontinued during COVID-19, making it a hotspot for homeless individuals. The final letter requests the removal of cement tables at Kūhiō Beach Park, which have become hotspots for criminal and drug activity, and suggests transforming the area into something more beneficial for the community.

· Drafted Letter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1--mDveOi7m7NGyQ6HI3qjH169yAMxx9j/view?usp=drive_link

· Drafted Letter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K8yHUqnRvLDlyXkFzyYXqbkFNpQLy87-/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:54:46]

1. Hawaiian Spelling Request: Member Worth requested that proper Hawaiian spelling with diacritical marks be used in the letters. Member Anderson agreed to make this change.

[2:55:18] -- K. Jacob MOVED and Nordahl SECONDED to support the concept of the Letter to McDonald's Regarding Hiring Private Security with proposed amendments regarding proper diacritical marks. Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D'Orazio, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Merz, Serota, Smith, and Worth; NAY:None; ABSTAIN: None) -- [2:55:59].

[2:57:10] -- K. Jacob MOVED and Nordahl SECONDED to support the concept of the Letter to the City and County to Remove Concrete Tables at Kūhiō Beach with proposed amendments regarding proper diacritical marks. Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 12-0-1 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D'Orazio, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Merz, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: Serota) -- [2:57:14].

Proposal for the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board to Consider Naming Delegates to the Following Commission -- [2:57:56]: Chair Finley informed the residents that due to the naming of delegates to designate in the Charter of the City and County of Honolulu this item exceeds the board's authority.

X. APPROVAL OF MINUTES [2:58:44]

Tuesday, August 12, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes -- [2:58:44]: Member Worth will provide grammatical corrections to the NA.

[2:59:06] -- Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a show of hands to approve the Tuesday, August 12, 2025 drafted meeting minutes with amendments. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D'Orazio, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, D. Jacob, K. Jacob, Merz, Serota, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) -- [2:59:11].

XI. ADJOURNMENT [2:59:18] Chair Finley adjourned the meeting at 8:59 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO

Reviewed by: Jeffery Jones, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO

Reviewed and finalized by: Melissa Filek, Waikiki Neighborhood Board Secretary

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