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

Ala Moana-Kakaako Neighborhood Board No. 11

 

November 2020 Minutes

 

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, November 24, 2020
Kapalama Hale Room 153, 925 Dillingham Boulevard and ZOOM

CALL TO ORDER - Chair Tam called the meeting to order at 6:35 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, November 24, 2020 regular monthly meeting of the Ala Moana/Kaka ako Neighborhood Board No. 11 at Kapalama Hale and on zoom.

Board Members Present - Rodney Chang, Chris Chung, Robert Clayton, Braunsen Kalaikai, Ron Komine, Jr., Kathleen Lee, Lynn Mariano, Ryan Tam, and Michael Zehner.
Guests - Brent Dillabaugh (Honolulu Fire Department), Jennifer Nakayama (Waikiki Business Improvement District Association) , Ian Santee (Mayor Kirk Caldwell's representative), Councilmember Carol Fukunaga, Councilmember Ann Kobayashi, Councilmember Tommy Waters, Representative Adrian Tam, Dylan Leigh (Speaker Saiki's staff), Senator Sharon Moriwaki, Francine Murray (Hawaii Community Development Authority), Shawn Hamamoto (Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation), Residents: Cora, Rob Adjoy, Valerie Umeda, Melissa Lara, David Jones, Ruth Lohr, Venus Staff, Kalani Fronda, Fran, Kevin, Davin Aoyagi, Bryan Mick, Huong Vo, Mr. Toba, and Marcie Kamei (Neighborhood Commission Office).
Reminders - Chair Tam announced that since the last meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2020, 33,678 Americans have died from COVID-19, raising the total to 265,891 American deaths, since the pandemic started. Chair Tam noted that the purpose of the Neighborhood Board system was to ensure effective citizen participation in the government's decision-making process. Chair Tam outlined the rules of speaking for Board members and attendees.

PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) P wa a Station - Brent Dillabaugh reported the following:
¥ Monthly report - 3 nuisance fires, 11 activated alarms, 142 medicals, 2 motor vehicle collisions, 6 motor vehicle crashes, 1 ocean rescue, and 2 hazardous materials incidents.
¥ Fire safety tip - Stay in kitchen while cooking and set a timer as a reminder to check on food. HFD discourages the use of outdoor gas fueled turkey fires. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from cooking area. If in doubt of extinguishing a fire, leave the house and call 911 and close the door behind you to contain fire. Unattended cooking is the leading contributing factor of cooking fire and fire deaths. Cooking equipment was involved in almost half of all reported home fires and home fire injuries, and it is the second leading cause of home fire deaths.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) - No representative was present.

Filling of Vacancies - Chair Tam announced a vacancy in subdistrict 1 and subdistrict 4. There were no volunteers or nominees. Vacancy was not filled.

COMMUNITY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCHES - Chair Tam announced the following:
¥ Mother Waldron Park (525 Cooke Street) - Mondays, 5:00 p.m.
¥ Sheridan Park (833 Pi ikoi Street) - 1st Mondays, 7:00 p.m.

ANNOUNCEMENTS -
¥ COVID surge testing - Free, voluntary surge testing from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, 2020 at Mission Memorial and Monday through Friday through November 30, 2020 at the Waikiki Shell.
¥ Ala Wai Watershed Flood Risk Management Project - Virtual engineering forum from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on November 28, 2020 and December 5, 2020. Participants can join at https://usace1.webex.com/meet/jeffrey.a.herzog or by dialing 1-844-800-2712; Access Code: 199 126 8738#; Security Code: 1234#.
¥ Bus route changes - Route 19 and 20 will be combined. Route 20 will be on South Street instead of Alakea Street. Route 303 will serve Hickam.
¥ Next meeting - The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for January 26, 2020 and broadcasts will be on Olelo.

PERMIT REVIEWS, HEARINGS, AND APPLICATIONS
¥ Development proposals that require neighborhood board input are being posted at: http://www.honoluludpp.org/ApplicationsForms/ZoningandLandUsePermits/NeighborhoodBoardMaterials.aspx

PRESENTATIONS
Business Improvement Districts - Jennifer Nakayama, Waikiki Business Improvement District Association (WBIDA) presented the following:
¥ Business Improvement District (BID) - Waikiki was the first BID that was formed in Hawaii and is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization that is not directly part of the City and County of Honolulu. No lobbying or political endorsement activities.
¥ Affiliation with the City - Organization was formed under Mayor Jeremy Harris administration in 2000 and governed by City Ordinance 00-40. Operations began in 2001.
¥ WBIDA Ambassadors - WBIDA is known for the cleaning ambassadors who take care of custodial and maintenance and aloha ambassadors who take care of hospitality, directional assistance, safety, security, and homeless outreach in Waikiki.
¥ Three precincts - 1. Kalakaua/Kunio Corridor, 2. Kalakaua Makai, 3. Greater Waikiki. Tiered assessment are based on commercial property.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Chung inquired about the organization's annual budget. Nakayama replied that 3-4 million dollars based on tiered assessments. With COVID-19 pandemic, the budget has been cut to 40-50% of regular annual budget.
2. Mariano commented on the professionalism of the WBIDA.
3. Tam inquired about whether the Improvement Districts could be utilized in other areas of Oahu. Nakayama responded that that is possible through legislation.
4. Lee inquired whether the residential properties that function as a business would fall under commercial business. Nakayama responded that it would depend on how the property's tax code is categorized by the City and County.
5. Zehner inquired whether it is a requirement for commercial businesses in the tiered assessed area to pay for the WBIDA. Nakayama responded that is a requirement per the property tax bill.

BOARD BUSINESS
Approval of the Tuesday, October 27, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes - deferred.

Attendance at other meetings - Chair Tam attended the Ala Wai Watershed Plan scoping meeting on November 14, 2020 and Ala Wai Promenade meeting last Monday. Chung and Chair Tam attended the Waikiki Neighborhood Board meeting in November.

Chair's Report -
- Ala Wai Promenade Update - Presentation was made at Waikiki Neighborhood Board meeting.
- Ka Po'e o Kaka'ako Update - Houseless community found permanent housing.
- Ala Wai Watershed Flood Risk Management Project Update - Army Corps of Engineers updated design concept.
- Straub Hospital Expansion Plan Review Use (PRU) Permit Update - Permit will be submitted soon.
- Ala Moana Plaza development - Plan will go to Zoning board on December 2, 2020 and full Council on December 9, 2020.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Mariano reminded the board that the Council submitted Resolution 20-315 pertaining to Brookfield Properties.

Selection of a New Treasurer - none.

Treasurer's Report - $412.81 remaining balance.

Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OahuMPO) CAC (Citizen Advisory Committee) - none.

OLD BUSINESS
Discuss Ala Moana Transit Oriented Development Plan - Mariano expressed concerns about development in the Ala Moana area.

NEW BUSINESS
Discuss and Consider Resolution regarding board size and subdistrict composition - Tam explained the population growth in certain subdistricts for Ala Moana needs to be considered when determining amount of board seats. Options to consider: to combine subdistricts and have only two subdistricts, add at-large seats and have two seats per subdistrict, have one at-large district, or go to back to a 9 member board. Tam noted the next Census would determine the population count. Zehner, Mariano, Clayton, Komine, and Lee preferred to stay with status quo. Kalaikai suggested adding two at-large seats. Chung concurred with Kalaikai. No action was taken.

Discuss noise concerns around Waimanu/Queen/Pensacola Street - Komine went to Waihonua Condo where the noise complaint was about a humming noise. Komine believes the noise comes from the roof of the building on Kapiolani Boulevard. Komine reached out to building management but has not heard back. Mariano inquired whether the City or State could conduct a study on the noise. Tam clarified the inquiry would be made with State Department of Health (DOH). Komine responded that he will contact DOH.

Discuss and consider resolution regarding government response to the COVID-19 pandemic - Chung expressed concerns of the economy of the bars in the Ala Moana area. Mariano expressed concerns about housing and homeless issues. Chang explained the bars and restaurants did not come to the neighborhood board meeting and that the board should receive input to move forward. Clayton was concerned about small businesses and unemployment taxes rising. Lee suggested edits to the resolution. Chung clarified there was input from the bars but that more input would be helpful but to move forward with the resolution. Zehner is in favor of alleviating problems for the bar industry and the Bar Owners Association has been lobbying the legislature and City. Chang commented that the wording of the resolution should change so public officials will help fund small businesses. Mariano suggested accepting the resolution as is with needed edits rather than waiting. Tam suggested adding "small businesses" to the bars and restaurants section. Chung agreed. Kalaikai supports the resolution if there was language to fund small businesses. Mariano suggested requesting funds for various entities.
Mariano moved and Chung seconded the motion with edits. Motion was ADOPTED 9-0-0 (Aye: Chang, Chung, Clayton, Kalaikai, Komine, Lee, Mariano, Tam, Zehner; Nay: 0; Abstain: 0)

Discuss concerns and safety improvements to the Pensacola Street Protected Bicycle Lane - Clayton explained the cars parked on Pensacola Street blocks off sight for those driving into Pensacola Street. There is also a bike lane that is in between the sidewalk and parking on Pensacola Street that makes it difficult to determine if a car is coming. Mariano supports this resolution and commented that other areas with bike lanes have restrictions on parking during peak hours. Tam reported that Department of Transportation Services has heard of concerns of the driveway by Moana Pacific and submitted a work order to the Department of Facility Maintenance to remove parking closest to the driveway. Chang supports this resolution. Zehner inquired why the bike lanes were not placed west of Pensacola Street. Tam responded that DTS and DDC in their expertise determined it would be better on the east side of Pensacola Street. Tam also commented that it would be better for bicyclist to be on the left side of the street so drivers can see them. Mariano explained the decision was determined majority by bicyclists and that current complaints are coming from residents.
Mariano moved and Clayton seconded the motion. Motion was ADOPTED 8-1-0 (Aye: Chang, Chung, Clayton, Kalaikai, Komine, Lee, Mariano, Tam; Nay: Zehner; Abstain: 0).

Discuss completion of the rail project to Ala Moana Center - Mariano expressed concerns for the rail project that is taking too long and is over budget. Mariano requested more information on the rail project. Chung supports the rail project but commented that the City needs to renegotiate with developers who will benefit from the rail project. Kalaikai expressed frustration on issues with the rail on Dillingham Boulevard but supports rail. Tam noted he works for HART. Komine commented on delays with the rail and issues on Dillingham Boulevard.

RESIDENT AND COMMUNITY CONCERNS
¥ Chair Tam announced a resident's concern about houseless people on Kolowalu Park.
¥ Chair Tam announced former board member Cloutier's concern about construction noise in the morning on Kapiolani Boulevard.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Kalaikai inquired about a crosswalk on Kamakee Street by Whole Foods. Tam responded that it might be a Howard Hughs invested crosswalk with light.

¥ Chair Tam announced the Hawaii Bicycling League's concern about the pedestrian walkway at Ala Moana Boulevard.

ELECTED OFFICIAL REPORTS
Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Representative - Ian Santee, Deputy Director, Honolulu Emergency Services Department (HESD) reported the following:
¥ Public/Private Partnership (PPP) - HART responded that the PPP is not designed to be a funding source, but a financing mechanism. The City's withdrawal from the PPP does not affect the funding for the completion of the rail project. The project is required to complete the full 20 mile, 21 station scope. COVID-19 pandemic has caused challenges with costs but the Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) does not relieve the rail project of any scope. DPP responded that TOD in the Ala Moana area is not affected by current discussions of funding needed to complete rail project.
¥ Unspent Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds - CARES Act fund has been appropriated and is in the process of being released to respective parties. Please visit oneoahu.org for more information.
¥ Money and more - HART's executive director and CEO's base salary is $317,000 with $55,000 for housing and $7,200 for transportation allowance. HART's funding shortfall were a result of the pandemic and other rising costs. These challenges are not directly related to the PPP.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Lohr noted that HART is looking to make sure to complete the rail project as identified by the FFGA.
2. Mariano inquired on why it is taking so long to complete the rail project. Lohr responded that unfamiliarity with the areas being worked on was an issue with completing the project.

City Councilmember Carol Fukunaga - Councilmember Fukunaga reported the following:
¥ Bill 75 and Bill 84, CD1 - Fire safety updates - Provides condominium associations with additional flexibility in meeting their life safety evaluation requirements.
¥ Ala Wai Watershed Project Status Update Community Briefing by Oceanit - Presentation was attached to newsletter.
¥ Bars and indoor attractions - City Council adopted Resolution 20-291 which asks the administration to consider providing financial aide to businesses that have been affected by the pandemic. The Mayor allocated $24 million into a business recovery fund.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Chung inquired about how businesses can apply for the business recovery fund. Fukunaga responded that she can provide a press release to the board. Information is also on oneoahu.org.
2. Mariano inquired about the intent of Resolution 20-315 relating to Brookfield. Fukunaga responded that the resolution was provided to for the board to view which can also be accessed on the City's docushare website. Fukunaga clarified the resolution is still in process and encouraged the board to take a look at it.

City Councilmember Ann Kobayashi
¥ Thanks - Tam thanked Councilmember Kobayashi for her years of service. Councilmember Kobayashi thanked the board for their hard work and professionalism. Mariano thanked Councilmember Kobayashi for her leadership and helping the neighborhood boards and that the board welcomes any help. Kobayashi responded that she will continue to volunteer in the community.

City Councilmember Tommy Waters - Councilmember Waters reported the following:
¥ Ala Moana Beach Park Magic Island Parking Lot - Parking lot is now open.
¥ $100,000 for the Ala Wai Promenade Lighting Project - The administration will not release the funds, however the money will be in the fund for two years. Waters will advocate for this project.
¥ Bill 2 (2019) - The bill will require developers to include rail improvements or affordable housing in regard to condo-tels or hotels in the district and to require developers to present dollar amount estimate of the value of the requested height bonuses, and the value of the requested density bonuses, and the cost to the developer for each category of proposed community benefits. Waters would like to request help from Brookfield on the rail project. Brookfield also signed an agreement giving the City an easement along Kona Street for the City's buses and rail. Waters hopes Brookfield will be able to help build a rail station on Ala moana. Waters looks forward to input by the board.
¥ Crime - District 4 has had serious burglaries and break ins. Waters would like to have a Public Safety Hearing to talk about crime in the community and talk to the Chief of Police to understand what HPD is doing to combat crime. Noting also overtime abuse with CARES money. Waters sent a letter to the Police Chief requesting more information.

State Representative Adrian Tam - Representative Tam reported the following:
¥ Representative Tam can be reached at Reptam@capitol.hawaii.gov
¥ Unemployment assistance - Representative Tam's office is working on getting out unemployment insurance benefits out to the public in a timely manner.

State House Speaker Scott Saiki - A newsletter was distributed. Speaker Saiki's staff Dylan Leigh was open to any questions. No questions.

State Senator Sharon Moriwaki - Senator Sharon Moriwaki distributed a newsletter and reported the following:
¥ New Justices - Senate met to confirm the new justices.
¥ Senate Committee - Moriwaki will chair the Government Operations Committee to reform State government to make the government system more efficient.
¥ Fishers and swimmers at Ala Moana Beach Park - Moriwaki's office is looking at the concerns and wants to make sure everyone enjoys the park.
¥ Survey - Moriwaki's office welcomes any input on new legislation.

Governor David Ige's Representative - A newsletter was distributed. No representative was present.

U.S. Congressman Ed Case - No representative was present.

AGENCY REPORTS
Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) - Francine Murray reported the following:
¥ Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) - PIG was formed to make recommendations for performing schools objective and initiatives for the new HCDA executive director. They hope to make recommendations on the next HCDA meeting on December 9, 2020.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Tam inquired about houseless people, trash, and safety concerns on Kolowalu Park from a resident at 1133 Waimanu. Murray responded she will follow up via e-mail.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) - Shawn Hamamoto reported the following:
¥ Construction progress - 58.8% complete on the West side of the island.
¥ Dillingham Corridor Status - Nan Inc. cleared traffic controls on Dillingham specifically the controlled access on Mokauea and Laumaka Street. Engineers are reviewing different options for Dillingham Boulevard.
¥ P3 Update - P3 contract is officially cancelled.
¥ Virtual community meeting - Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. on facebook.com/HonoluluRailTransit.
¥ Information - Please visit www.honolulutransit.org or call 808-566-2299 or email info@honlulutransit.org.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Mariano inquired about proof of concept and any revenue from the completed section of the rail project. Hamamoto responded that after the rail is done by HART, the Department of Transportation Services will step in to run the rail.
2. Kalaikai expressed frustration on the responsibilities of HART and hopes to see the rail running.
3. Mariano expressed frustration that by the time the rail is complete, other portions that were built will start needing repairs due to the length of time it is taking to complete the rail. Mariano suggested using part of the rail that is already complete. Hamamoto responded that he will take the comments back to HART.

Honolulu Board of Water Supply (BWS) - No representative was present. Chair Tam reported the following:
¥ Water main break - On October 9, 2020 there was a 6 inch break cast iron on 935 Queen Street, installed in 1969.
¥ Scam calls/visits - Customers be wary of scams and know your account status, understand board of water supply collection procedures, safeguard personal information, and hang up on suspicious callers. Please visit boardofwatersupply.com or call 748-5000 for more information or to file a report for any suspicious activity or call 911.

THANKSGIVINGS
Tam made an announcement thanking the everyone and the highlighting the importance of helping the community. Lee thanked Tam. Chang thanked the board. Kalaikai announced he will resign from the Ala Moana Neighborhood Board.
Tam thanked Kalaikai for his participation in the neighborhood board.

ADJOURNMENT - As there was no further business before the Board, Chair Tam adjourned the meeting at 9:16 p.m.

Submitted by: Marcie Kamei, Public Relations Assistant
Reviewed by: Casey Ishitani, Neighborhood Assistant
Reviewed by: Ryan Tam, Chair

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