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

WAIKĪKĪ NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 9

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD

TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026 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=pwqMi8i-MG0

Reports and other meeting materials can be found at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U5LqhO7cjTWUAsZeSiesn99MJa87ouZE

I. CALL TO ORDER -- [0:00:04]: Chair Robert Finley called the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board No. 9 regular meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.

Quorum was established with 14 members present. Note -- This 17-member Board requires 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: Reine Ah Moo (via WebEx), Jillian Anderson, Rolf Nordahl, Cory D'Orazio, Louis Erteschik, Melissa Filek, Robert Finley, Kathryn Henski (via WebEx), Tim Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob (via WebEx), Jeff Merz, Shannon Smith, and Sarah Worth (WebEx).

Board Members Absent: Lisa Cabanero and Nate Serota.

Guests: Captain L. Shiroma (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant A. Kitagawa and Major Paul Okamoto (Honolulu Police Department); Director Nola Miyasaki (Mayor's Representative); Office of Council Chair Tommy Waters; Senator Sharon Moriwaki Representative; Representative Adrian Tam (via WebEx); Ivonne Hunter (Governor's Representative); Rick Egged (Waikīkī Improvement Association); Renee Espiau (Complete Streets Administrator); Chad Wasden and Amy Fuller; Bulla Eastman, John Chang, Denise Boisvert, Pam Walker, David Chung, Linda Dewey, Richard Byron, Caroline Brimblecombe, Jacob Wiencek, John Deutzman, Wes Frysetacki, C. Pinnick, Mary Lou Kobayashi (via WebEx), Geisa Adachi (via WebEx), Pamela Vela (via WebEx), Tasha Luke (via WebEx), Laura Ruby (via WebEx), Greg Misakian (via WebEx), Kevin Lye (via WebEx), and Justin Menina (via WebEx) (Resident); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 31 total participants.

II. VOTE TO FILL VACANCY IN SUB DISTRICT 2 -- [0:00:28]

Chair Finley announced the vacancy in subdistrict 2 and called for nominees.

[0:00:43] -- Anderson NOMINATED Jacob Wiencek to fill the subdistrict 2 vacancy. Bulla Eastman volunteered to fill the vacancy for subdistrict 2 and provided a brief information about himself. Jacob Wiencek provided a brief information about himself.

[0:07:48] -- Finley NOMINATED Bulla Eastman to fill the subdistrict 2 vacancy. Hearing no further nominations, the board conducted a roll call vote. 7-7; (EASTMAN: Ah Moo, D' Orazio, Filek, Henski, Daniel Jacob, Smith, and Worth; WIENCEK: Anderson, Nordahl, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, Ken Jacob, and Merz) -- [0:08:22].

[0:10:09] -- As neither candidate received the required votes, a second roll call vote was conducted. 8-6; (EASTMAN: Ah Moo, Nordahl, D' Orazio, Filek, Henski, Daniel Jacob, Smith, and Worth; WIENCEK: Anderson, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, Ken Jacob, and Merz) -- [0:10:33].

[0:11:54] -- Chair Finley thanked both candidates and announced the vote would be deferred to the April 2026 meeting, due to quorum vote not being met.

III. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS -- [0:12:19]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) -- [0:12:39]: Captain L. Shiroma provided the February 2026 statistics and March 2026 safety tip and highlighted the following:

· February 2026 statistics: 1 structure fire, 1 nuisance fire, 23 activated alarms, 190 medical emergencies, 1 motor vehicle collision, 1 mountain rescue, 1 ocean rescue, and 2 hazardous materials incidents.

· March 2026 safety tip: Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, in hallways, and on each floor of a home. Alarms should be tested at least once a month, batteries replaced annually, and alarms replaced if more than 10 years old.

· Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UEK2JruuFktfF9o2BvTzSi8gxfD0X6bO/view?usp=drive_link

Troy Barboza Annual 1st Hawaiian Bank Law Enforcement Torch Run -- [0:14:20]: Tracy Bender, Director of Development for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi, presented information about the 41st Annual 1st Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run, a benefit event in which law enforcement officers from county, state, and federal agencies carry the Flame of Hope into the opening ceremonies of the State Summer Games. The event is scheduled for Friday, June 5, 2026, in the evening, following a route that begins at Fort DeRussy. Runners are expected to depart Fort DeRussy around 7:15 p.m. and clear Waikīkī by approximately 7:40 p.m. Bender explained that the event is named in honor of Troy Barboza, a law enforcement officer and Special Olympics coach who was killed in the line of duty when he was shot through the window of his own home in retaliation for a drug case he was investigating.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- [0:17:19]: Lieutenant A. Kitagawa provided the February 2026 statistics and highlighted the following:

· February 2026 Statistics: 3 robberies; 8 burglaries; 121 thefts; 11 unauthorized entry motor vehicles; 36 assaults; 5 sex crimes; 1 bike/skateboard on sidewalk citation; 0 speeding warnings, 30 citations; 1,968 parking citations; 13 loud muffler citations; 0 park closure warnings, 65 citations, 13 arrests; and 4,130 total calls for service.

· Ride-Along Update: Lieutenant Kitagawa provided an update regarding the ride-along form and noted that the two initial forms must be submitted to the main station's Community Affairs Division. After a background check is completed, a third form is issued that authorizes scheduling of the ride-along.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [0:19:17]

1. Ride-Along Experience and ICE Impersonator: Huycke provided his ride-along experience and claimed that the officers he encountered were friendly, transparent, and professional. Huycke also noted some officer safety violations and practices that differed from their previous department's standards, and observed what appeared to be an over-response to calls. Huycke acknowledged this provides backup and support, but suggested efficiency improvements. Huycke also alerted the department to an individual seen on Instagram walking around Waikīkī Beach wearing camouflage impersonating an ICE officer. Major Okamoto explained that Waikīkī has 13 beats, each with an assigned officer. For priority-one calls, multiple officers respond for safety. He noted that once a situation is assessed as safe, officers should return to their assigned beats. He thanked the board member for the feedback and committed to discussing it further at the next internal meeting.

2. Noise Enforcement Update: Major Okamoto noted a project targeting loud music, busking, and amplified performances, especially on weekends. Officers began by issuing warnings to build a documented record for successful prosecution before escalating to citations. HPD also deployed a large generator with a light tower on Lewers Street on Friday and Saturday nights to address the post-4:00 a.m. bar-closing crowd and deter disorderly behavior.

3. Abandoned Vehicles on Paoakalani Avenue: Major Okamoto requested the community's help locating the registered owner of an abandoned fire truck and bus that have been parked on Paoakalani Avenue near the archery range for many years. The vehicles are registered to Brent Kelsey. Contact Major Okamoto at pokamoto@honolulupd.gov or 808-723-3345.

4. Parking on Prince Edward Street: A resident followed up on a concern raised at the prior month's meeting about chronic illegal parking on both sides of Prince Edward Street near a recently opened food court. The resident reported only 20--30% improvement and noted the problem persists all day and into the night. Major Okamoto committed to increased enforcement in the area and to report back at the next meeting.

5. Encampment Near the Village: Filek asked about the encampment situation near the Hilton Village area. Major Okamoto explained it is a patchwork of state and federal properties, making enforcement difficult without a formal access agreement. He noted an agreement is in process. He announced that two ATV teams will be deployed starting the following week to address such situations.

6. Theft at 7-Eleven Stores: Misakian (via WebEx) reported two separate shoplifting incidents at different 7-Eleven locations in recent weeks. Officers responded and made arrests in at least one instance. He expressed concern about an uptick in incidents after a period of apparent improvement, and also reported that a responding officer was rude. He requested Major Okamoto follow up on the officer's conduct via email. Major Okamoto acknowledged that theft is a persistent problem. He noted that habitual property crime bills have been passed into law, and geographic restrictions are an important tool -- barring repeat offenders from returning to Waikīkī and allowing arrests if they do.

7. Lighting Pilot Program: Lye commended the use of the light tower near bars closing at 4:00 a.m. and asked if Major Okamoto could send a memo to District 5 about this approach for Chinatown. Major Okamoto responded that it is a pilot project requiring considerable resources and will evaluate its effectiveness before recommending expansion.

8. Amplified Noise Enforcement: John asked why warnings are issued rather than immediate citations for amplified music. Major Okamoto explained that giving documented warnings prior to enforcement strengthens prosecutions. Chair added that Chair Waters is drafting new legislation to address amplified noise more effectively, as prior legislation did not fully meet legal requirements.

9. Encampment: A resident asked about an encampment at the end of the Ala Wai near the library. Major Okamoto clarified that most of that encampment is in District 7, not in Waikīkī's district; he committed to forwarding the concern to District 7.

Board of Water Supply (BWS) -- [0:43:28]: The board voted at last month's meeting requesting BWS to provide a written report at future meetings.

· Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JGTKXvGJE9CIoP0213s0ebtLwuifr72D/view?usp=drive_link

IV. CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA -- [0:43:30]

Ala Wai Watershed Collaboration: Ruby announced a Zoom presentation on the Ala Wai Watershed Collaboration the following day Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. She asked Waikīkī residents to photograph any water overtopping from the canal onto the street or debris backups at the McCully Bridge and report the location to assist the collaborative.

Senate Bill (SB) 2151 -- Emergency Management Bill: Dewey raised SB 2151, relating to emergency management, highlighting three concerns: (1) it expands the definition of "disaster" to include excessive rain, giving the governor more opportunity to declare emergencies; (2) it requires a two-thirds vote of both chambers to override the governor's emergency declaration; and (3) it grants the governor authority to suspend any current law.

V. OAHʻU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS -- [0:47:21]

Chair Finley noted that each event may have setup 30 minutes prior and teardown 30 minutes after the listed times. The following events are currently on the City's website:

· Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 6:00 p.m. -- 8:00 p.m.: Salute to Youth Parade

· Saturday, April 25, 2026, 1:30 p.m. -- Midnight: Waikīkī Spam Jam Street Festival

· Saturday, May 2, 2026, 6:00 a.m. -- Noon: 46th Annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk

· Saturday, May 23, 2026, 1:30 p.m. -- Midnight: Kanikapila Festival

Additional Event -- [0:48:37]

· Honolulu Festival Grand Parade: John Chang, on behalf of the Honolulu Festival, confirmed the Honolulu Festival Grand Parade is proceeding as planned on Sunday, March 15, 2026. Weather is being monitored. Any last-minute changes will be communicated as soon as possible. Chair noted this event was announced at last month's meeting. Chang noted the fireworks are scheduled at 8:30 p.m. after the parade.

VI. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE -- [0:50:10]

· Hearing on Thursday, April 2, 2026 Bacchus Waikīkī, 408 Lewers Street, Cat 3

VII. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS' REPRESENTATIVES -- [0:50:50]

Mayor's Representative -- [0:51:12]: Director Nola Miyasaki provided the report and highlighted the following: the mayor's upcoming Waikīkī town hall on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse, and the announcement of a $1 million public-private partnership donation from Hilton Grand Vacations to the Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID) to improve Kūhiō Beach Park. She also noted the city's Green Recycling Organic Hawaiʻi (GROW) pilot composting program launching in select neighborhoods, and reminded residents about the updated 311 app for reporting concerns directly to the relevant city department. Director Miyasaki provided follow-up responses to the February 2026 meeting, including that HPD issued 10 citations along Prince Edward Street between Tuesday, February 17 and Thursday, February 26, 2026, that Kūhiō Beach comfort station repairs are ongoing with no confirmed completion date due to newly discovered issues, and that a response on ambulance wait times from ESD is still pending.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [0:56:09]

1. Bus Stop on Kapahulu: Deutzman expressed strong concern about the new bus stop configuration on Kapahulu Avenue, where buses park from the zoo entrance, blocking the entire zoo side of the street and sometimes both sides. Described the resulting traffic jam and dangerous pedestrian crosswalk conditions.

2. Corruption in Prosecuting Attorney's Office / Budget Priorities: Wiencek raised concerns about reported corruption from the prosecuting attorney's department. He also addressed the city budget, urging the mayor's office to prioritize maintenance of public infrastructure such as parks, beaches, roads, and sidewalks, and to fully fund the Complete Streets program.

3. City Websites / Department of Planning and Permiting (DPP) Issues / Pending Mayor Meetings: Misakian raised three concerns: (1) new city websites are difficult to navigate and lack clear contact information--a rude customer service representative hung up on him; (2) the DPP website is running two simultaneous systems, not answering phones, and has a full voicemail box; and (3) he has been waiting since the prior year for two scheduled meetings with the mayor regarding DPP and the NCO office. Requested the mayor's office expedite scheduling.

4. Kūhiō Beach Park Million-Dollar Donation: Chair Finley noted that the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board (WNB) played a foundational role in this outcome -- when the developer first sought board input on a new building, the $1 million was placed on the table and deferred to Council Chair Waters. The WBID then implemented many improvements the board had suggested, including beach matting for accessibility.

Council Chair Tommy Waters -- [1:04:25]: Council Chair Tommy Waters provided the report and highlighted the following: the $1 million donation to the WBID for Kūhiō Beach Park improvements; he and his staff recently walked through Waikīkī with WBID to study street performer locations and is developing a draft busking permit bill -- requiring fees, designated areas, and time limits--modeled on programs in Las Vegas and Tennessee, emphasizing it is not a done deal. He also noted a significant number of mopeds with expired registrations parked on Waikīkī sidewalks and is coordinating with hotels and HPD to cite them. Chair Waters added that budget review sessions are underway and invited board members to share their budget priorities, noting the mayor's proposed budget increased by approximately $36 million. He will provide an update on the status of the surf racks after tomorrows hearing.

· Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j9UR1rEQEyEUncSKdNgj46T4Yhn87dOs/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:10:11]

1. Busking Permit System: D' Orazio suggested modeling a busking permit system on Australia's approach: designated zones, a permitting process with city approval, and premium and no-go areas. Melbourne was cited as an example where performers must apply for a permit and are limited to specific zones based on noise concerns. Chair Waters Confirmed the bill he is working on would require a permit with a nominal fee and designate specific areas and times. Performers outside their permitted area or in someone else's space could be cited.

2. Opposition to Designated Street Performer Areas: Henski (via WebEx) expressed concern that providing legal performing space effectively rewards illegal activity. Chair Waters acknowledged Henski's concerns and noted that HPD is not currently moving performers, so the bill is meant as a compromise. Also updated the board on efforts to address mobile tour vendors by coordinating simultaneous presence of HPD and hotel security.

3. Historical Busker Audition Program: Merz recalled a prior program approximately 10--15 years ago where performers had to audition to be allowed to perform on Waikīkī streets. Asked what happened to that program and suggested revisiting it.

4. Key West / New York City (NYC) Model: Deutzman suggested learning from Key West's sunset ceremony and the NYC subway audition system for performers. Recommended using the area near the beach movie screen or Queen's Beach as a designated zone. Emphasized that performers should have a curfew and that a talent-based audition process would ensure quality. Chair Waters expressed enthusiasm for an audition-based system; noted that Dina Holyfield, Director of the Department of Enterprise Services and a promoter/entertainer, is helping develop the idea.

5. Additional Concerns/City Website: Misakian agreed with Henski's concerns about the strip's residential character. Emphasized that residential buildings are on and near Kalākaua. He suggested any zone be far from homes, hotels, and residences. He also raised liability concerns about the city permitting performers. Reiterated his earlier concerns about city website usability and rude customer service. Chair Waters will meet with the Director of Customer Services that week and relay concerns. Committed to waiting to see HPD's enforcement results before introducing the bill and will send the draft bill to the board for review.

6. Entertainment Zones: Chair Finley recalled the late Duke Bainum's effort to create entertainment zones in Waikīkī, noting it had good intentions but struggled with site selection and was cut short by his passing. Stressed the complexity of locating a zone without disturbing residents. Requested Chair Waters' staff send a draft bill 8--10 days before the April 2026 meeting so it can be placed on the agenda for an official board position.

Senator Sharon Moriwaki -- [1:25:19]: Senator Sharon Moriwaki provided the report and highlighted the following: Thursday, March 12, 2026 is the legislative crossover deadline, after which any bills not crossing chambers are dead for the session. She announced a Zoom session on how to testify at the legislature on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. Public comment periode commences for 2026 state workforce development plan. She highlighted key bills moving forward, including all five Kūpuna Caucus bills (family caregiver tax credit, kupuna volunteer program, hearing loss plan, rent supplement program, and dementia training for first responders), and noted that Waikīkī was successfully excluded from SB 2353 on digital outdoor signage, which will now apply only to the stadium district. She also addressed the repeat offenders bill--three misdemeanor convictions for crimes against persons in five years elevating to a Class C felony--which is being negotiated for a five-year extension to 2031 rather than made permanent, and SB 3125 on income tax, under which the Senate proposes clawing back tax cuts for individuals earning over $175,000 and couples over $300,000 while preserving them for lower and moderate incomes.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:38:42]

1. Kakaʻako and Makai Area Plan Update: Merz asked whether the area plan update is a regularly scheduled review or a fresh start. Senator Moriwaki explained that Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority administers the update using SSFM for community outreach. A community input session was held the prior Saturday. All Waikīkī users -- residents, visitors, and businesses--are encouraged to submit input.

2. SB 2367 -- Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor: Merz asked for a summary of SB 2367 relating to state boat harbors. Senator Moriwaki explained the bill would allow the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to hire or lease a manager for the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor, based in part on a study by the UH School of Architecture's Community Design Center. If the bill passes, it would go out to bid for a management partner.

3. SB 2591 Support and Colapsing Beach Walkway: Misakian noted his advocacy for Senator Moriwaki for SB 2591 (early morning trash pickup noise bill) and raised concern about the beach walkway in front of the Sheraton, which appears to be sinking and deteriorating. Requested someone look at the walkway condition urgently.Senator Moriwaki explained the complexity of shoreline responsibility, including a 1928 agreement in which the state ceded sand to property owners while retaining responsibility for the sand area to preserve public lateral access.

4. Federal Role in Coastline Management: Nordahl asked whether the federal government is included as a partner given their historical engineering of the southern coastline. Senator Moriwaki acknowledged the effort to include federal partners but noted no comprehensive plan currently exists.

Representative Adrian Tam -- [1:52:29]: Representative Adrian Tam (via WebEx) provided the report and highlighted the following: the House passed several notable bills today, including House Bill (HB) 1588 to make the 2023 noise camera pilot program permanent, HB 2505 to streamline assisted community treatment affidavits, and a squatter bill to help landowners address unauthorized occupants--relevant given a recent Kūhiō Avenue property fire caused by squatters. He reported that the House also passed its own version of the income tax adjustment, increasing taxes for the top three income brackets (above $450,000) and expanding the household care services tax credit eligibility. Additionally, his office is working with the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation DOBOR to bring outreach services to the Halekulani Beach Park homeless encampment through an administrative rule change.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [1:57:01]

1. House Resolutions 8 and 9: Misakian asked about the status of House Resolutions 8 and 9, which acknowledge Alexander Silvert's petition requesting a legislative floor discussion. Misakian noted the Senate acknowledged the petition but the House has not. Representative Tam confirmed no discussion has occurred and committed to monitoring and following up.

2. Parking Minimums Resolutions: Wiencek expressed disappointment that HB 1919 (prohibiting counties from imposing parking minimums) failed, noting parking minimums drive up housing costs. Expressed hope that SB 2981 (restricting parking minimums in urban zones), which passed the Senate with wide support, will receive similar support in the House. Representative Tam's noted to vote NO on HB 1919 because he believes eliminating parking requirements must be paired with improved public transportation. Noted the bus stop near his home has reduced routes and fares have been raised, making it difficult to take transit. Committed to keeping an open mind when SB 2981 reaches the House.

Governor's Representative -- [2:02:22]: Yvonne Hunter provided the report and highlighted the following: noted that federal funding reductions represent approximately $3 billion in impact to Hawaiʻi, making the income tax clawback discussions across both chambers necessary but challenging. She reported that ongoing Middle East tensions are creating oil price volatility, and since Hawaiʻi sources approximately 93% of its finished gasoline from South Korea, any supply disruption would have a direct impact on the state; gas prices have risen slightly but no immediate supply concerns exist. Hawaiian Electric (HECO) has proposed rate increases before the Public Utilities Commission driven by inflation, insurance premiums, and asset depreciation, which will affect Waikīkī residents and the rest of the state. She also noted that a storm severe weather warning is in effect through Saturday.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:04:42]

1. District 28 House Seat: Misakian raised concernS about the Downtown Chinatown neighborhood board chair, as he is among the finalists for appointment to the District 28 House seat, and suggested the Governor look at the meeting videos before making a decision.

VIII. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (WIA) -- [2:07:21]

Rick Egged reported that tomorrow, Wednesday, March 11, 2026, marks the 125th anniversary of the Moana Surfrider, the oldest hotel in Waikīkī, and noted the importance of protecting historic buildings as sea level rise planning continues. He is working closely with Senator Moriwaki and Representative Tam on Waikīkī beach issues, and shared that $5 million has been allocated in this year's budget for planning a major Waikīkī Beach restoration project through the Green Fees fund. He also reminded the board that the Ala Wai Watershed Collaboration Zoom meeting. Egged highlighted that a bill passed last year now limits commercial street festivals in Waikīkī to eight per year, resulting in only six planned this year -- down from a high of 18.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:10:44]

1. Beach Walkway / Spam Jam Role: Misakian asked about the sinking beach walkway in front of the Sheraton and whether Rick is affiliated with the Spam Jam. Egged responded that he is the President of Aloha Festivals but has no involvement with the Spam Jam committee.

2. Various Concerns: Worth noted that total street closures are still over 20; raised those commercial festivals have supported local vendors. Also asked for a future presentation on beach erosion plans. Worth also raised a prior statement attributed to Egged at a previous meeting about a potential new improvement district that would assess both businesses and residents. Egged clarified that no assessments on residents or properties are currently planned; the Ala Wai Watershed collaborative concept is being re-evaluated; original discussions involved storm water fees tied to a planned city storm water utility. Worth indicated she would share a link to the relevant prior meeting recording. Egged stated any current proposal would not include direct assessments.

IX. NEW BOARD BUSINESS -- [2:18:10]

Bus Lane and Related Kūhiō Avenue Traffic Issues -- [2:18:32]: Renee Espiau, Complete Streets Administrator for the City and County of Honolulu, presented an update on the Kūhiō Avenue Bus Lane project, which was implemented in two phases: Phase 1 (westbound, Kapahulu to Olohana) in October 2024, and Phase 2 (eastbound) in May 2025, with the busy Kalākaua to Kapahulu eastbound segment deferred pending a future capital project to adjust traffic signals. In July 2025, the double left turn onto Kapahulu was restored to address traffic backups, largely resolving community concerns about that bottleneck. The project limits curb lanes to buses, bicycles, and turning vehicles; passenger loading on Kūhiō is prohibited; and freight loading is allowed overnight by permit only--a design informed by the fact that 56% of Kūhiō rush-hour travelers are not in private vehicles and the corridor sees over 2.5 million annual city transit trips. Overall outcomes show general vehicle travel times are largely unchanged while westbound traffic is actually faster; bus reliability and on-time performance have improved in both directions; a new W Line that replaced route 20; more cyclists are using the curb lane instead of the sidewalk; and westbound lane compliance is high. Espiau also provided updates regarding the ongoing issues with left turns heading westbound.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:24:32]

1. Project Support: Merz expressed strong support for the project as a non-car owner who relies on transit, cycling, and walking. Noted the bus lane is a game changer for transit speeds and the curb lane as a bicycle lane has dramatically improved safety.

2. Kapahulu Bus Staging: Henski noted the bus staging situation on Kapahulu has only emerged in the past 12 months and asked what changed that caused buses to block Kapahulu. Espiau explained the W Line replaced Route 20 with rapid, high-ridership service; the bus route E layovers were moved from Kapahulu to Monsarrat, but driver non-compliance and route volume may still be contributing to staging near Kapahulu. Committed to further observation and driver communication.

3. Buses Near Zoo Crosswalk: Nordahl expressed concern that buses are parking too close to the zoo crosswalks. Noted a new law effective Thursday, January 1, 2026 requiring a 20-foot clearance from crosswalks. Suggested staging between Lemon Road and Kalākaua is acceptable.

4. Kūhiō Bus Lane as a Commuter Benefit: Wiencek regular transit and bike commuter shared that the Kūhiō bus lane has materially improved daily commuting by speeding up the bus and making the curb lane safe for cyclists. Advocated for expanding dedicated bus lanes to other streets in Honolulu.

5. Sidewalk Overcrowding vs. Traffic / Ala Wai Boulevard Project: Member Daniel Jacob echoed Merz, observing that Waikīkī streets are largely empty outside of rush hour while sidewalks--some as narrow as 4 feet--are chronically overcrowded, and called for a pedestrian-first design approach. He also asked what happened to the Ala Wai Boulevard complete streets plan. Espiau responded that the Ala Wai Boulevard plan remains the most current plan on file, but that Complete Streets typically lacks standalone budget and improvements of that scale are implemented through roadway rehabilitation projects, which are still many years away. She noted that in the interim, the speed limit on Ala Wai will be reduced to 25 mph, and the segment running along Jefferson Elementary will be reduced to 20 mph in compliance with the new school zone ordinance, to be handled as an in-house work order through DFM.

6. Praise for Bus Drivers: Dewey gave specific commendations for bus driver performance--waiting for running passengers, assisting with luggage, greeting riders warmly, and assisting an elderly woman with a mobility cart on the crowded Bus 13. Called the W Line a welcome improvement.

7. Red Bus Lane Markings: A resident noted the red bus lane markings on Kūhiō have turned dark and dirty-looking from tire marks, which diminishes the neighborhood's appearance. Not opposed to the lane itself. Espiau acknowledged the concern, noted the pavement quality on Kūhiō is poor, and proposed a future roadway rehabilitation project.

8. Public Comment Time: Worth stated she would like remaining members of the public with questions to be heard and requested they be given the opportunity to speak. She suggested that if time is a recurring constraint, the board consider scheduling fewer speakers per meeting. Chair Finley acknowledged and agreed.

[2:40:56] -- Hearing no objections the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Plans for Future Airspace Usage was moved up the agenda.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Plans for Future Airspace Usage -- [2:41:37]: Chad Wasden of the Diamond Head Neighborhood Board presented on the FAA's Hawaiʻi Airspace Modernization Project (HAMP), explaining that the FAA is modernizing the airspace over the entire state and is currently accepting public comments from all interested parties, including ground-level residents affected by aircraft noise. Key routes flying over Waikīkī include the MAGGI Three and SYMIN1 -- the main commercial inbound highways from the mainland. The community's proposals to the FAA include rerouting major commercial flight paths offshore, establishing a curfew on small planes routes between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., and requiring tour helicopters and planes to remain at least 2 miles offshore so they can still operate without disturbing residents and beachgoers. Public comments must be submitted by Sunday, March 15, 2026.

· Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IVoRHPbMN5rLXf4ahTDujFH9LOoZ11xM/view?usp=drive_link

· Resolution: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vSJIbK_xgwsPx9v4Ai8RaK8PlGqniq5q/view?usp=drive_link

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:47:51]

1. Public Comment Time: Misakian noted that two community members who had their hands raised during the prior bus lane agenda item were not given the opportunity to speak and requested those speakers be allowed to address the board. Filek clarified that the two individuals were board members and they talked to Espiau off camera.

[2:50:10] -- Nordahl MOVED and Merz SECONDED to adopt the Resolution Regarding Mitigation of Aircraft and Helicopter Noise within the Context of the FAA's Hawaii Airspace Modernization Project (HAMP). Hearing no further discussion, a roll call vote was conducted. The motion WAS ADOPTED; 11-1-1 (AYE: Ah Moo, Nordahl, D' Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, and Worth; NAY: Anderson; ABSTAIN: Smith) -- [2:50:34]

Legislature Update -- [2:52:04]

HB 1588 -- Relating to Department of Transportation (Noise Camera Program) -- [2:52:36]:

[2:52:54] -- Anderson MOVED and Daniel Jacob SECONDED to adopt HB 1588. 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, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Merz, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) -- [2:53:28]

SB 2367 -- Relating to State Boat Harbors (Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Public-Private Partnership) -- [2:54:17]:

[2:54:41] -- Anderson MOVED and Merz SECONDED to adopt SB 2367. Discussion followed.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed -- [2:54:50]

1. Opposition: Erteschik expressed concern about privatizing the Ala Wai Boat Harbor; noted DLNR's poor management record, but questioned whether the private sector would necessarily perform better. Stated he would be voting NO.

2. Support: Henski disagreed with Erteschik assessment. Noted DLNR has diverted Ala Wai Boat Harbor fee revenue to other harbors, causing the harbor to fall into disrepair. Believes professional private management would reinvest revenue into the harbor and produce better outcomes.

3. Government Responsibility: Worth agree with both perspectives--government should do its job with public tax dollars. Privatization generally raises costs and is not a guaranteed improvement.

4. Public Comments: Ah Moo asked whether the public would have an opportunity to speak on this item.

5. Procedural Concerns: Misakian raised procedural concerns about the handling of the legislative agenda, asserting that the board should have had a committee process earlier in the session and that some bills including condominium-related bills were improperly excluded from consideration.

Nordahl MOVED and Filek SECONDED to adjourned the meeting. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS adopted; 14-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D' Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Finley, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Merz, Smith, and Worth; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None)

X. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Meeting: This item was postponed to the next agenda.

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 Meeting: This item was postponed to the next agenda.

XI. REPORTS

Sub District 1 Report -- Merz: This item was postponed to the next agenda.

Sub District 2 Report -- Anderson: This item was postponed to the next agenda.

Sub District 3 Report -- Henski: This item was postponed to the next agenda.

Chair Report: This item was postponed to the next agenda.

XII. ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting: The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center, 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.

XIII. ADJOURNMENT -- [2:59:40]: Chair Finley adjourned the meeting at 8:57 p.m.

Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO

Reviewed by: Dylan Buck Community Relations Specialist

Finalized by: Melissa Filek, Waikiki Neighborhood Board Secretary

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