Bike path safety, zoning variances, and learning centers discussed at North Shore Board meeting

January 29, 2011 10:13 AM

The North Shore Neighborhood Board held its regular monthly meeting on November 23 at Alii Beach Park’s John Kalili Surf Center.

City monthly reports were presented, and the board addressed bike safely along the North Shore’s popular bike path.

At the meeting, it was noted that a possible change in a Waikiki zoning variance may set precedence for Turtle Bay to do the same. It was suggested the request to change the zoning variance not be approved.

It was reported that Kamehameha Schools is proposing a Kapailoa Learning Center near Matsumoto’s Shaved Ice and that the school is currently seeking an environmental assessment.

The complete minutes follow below:

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2010
JOHN KALILI SURF CENTER

CALL TO ORDER: Chair Michael Lyons called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. with a quorum of thirteen (13) members present. Note – This 15-member Board requires eight (8) votes to establish a quorum and take official board action.

Members Present: Jeff Alameida, Bruce Bellows, Tammy Ann Escorzon (Appointed at this meeting), John Hirota, Arlene Kawahakui, Jacqueline Leinau, Roberts “Bob “ Leinau, Michael Lyons, Blake McElheny, Antya Miller, Jacob Ng, Kathleen Pahinui, Carol Phillips and Warren Scoville.

Vacancies: There is one (1) vacancy in Sub-District 1.

Members Absent: None.

Guests: Diane Anderson, Capt. John Bredin (Honolulu Fire Department), Lt. G Lum Kee (Honolulu Police Department), Natalie McKinney, Yvonne Alexander, Keapoi Namakaeha (Hoala Housing), Kevin Seid, K.B. Van Der Leeden, James Estores (Malama Lokoea), Kawika Au (Waialua Hawaiian Civic Club), Yoon Kim (King Kamehameha Hawaiian Civic Club), Alan Lenhard, Raymond Pang (Senator Donovan Dela Cruz’s Office staff), Isaiah Kaaihue (Hawaiian Civic Club), Tony M Sanchez and Sunny Greer (Hui O Hee Nalu), Thomas Shirai, Stew Ring (Mokuleia Community Association), Mahina Chillingworth (Da Hui), Sheryl Bieler, Kim Ribellia (Councilmember Reed Matsuura’s Office staff), Councilmember Reed Matsuura, Cora Sanchez (Friends of Haleiwa Beach Park), Doug Cole (North Shore Community Land Trust), Hattie Nichols, Van Arola, Sandy Nahoopii-Soong (Board of Water Supply), Theresa Yamanoha, Maj. Ronaldo B. Cabales (US Army representative), Tim Vandeveer and Cody Rose (Defend Oahu Coalition), Giorgio Caldarone, Kalani Fronda, Kirra Downing and Dawn Farm Ramsey (Kamehameha Schools) and Kazu McArthur (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).

FILLING OF BOARD VACANCIES:

Sub-District 2: Hirota nominated Tammy Ann Escorzon to fill the vacant seat in Sub-District 2. Seeing no other interested candidates, Tammy Ann Escorzon was appointed and approved to fill the vacancy by UNANIMOUS CONSENT, 13-0-0 (AYE: Alameida, Bellows, Hirota, Kawahakui, J. Leinau, R. Leinau, Lyons, McElheny, Miller, Ng, Pahinui, Phillips and Scoville).

Sub-District 1: Alameida noted that former Board member Reed Matsuura has expressed a desire to return to the Board in January to finish his term on the Board.

Alameida moved and Pahinui seconded to defer the filling of the vacancy in Sub-District 1 until January. The motion was APPROVED, 12-1-0 (AYE: Alameida, Bellows, Hirota, Kawahakui, J. Leinau, R. Leinau, McElheny, Miller, Ng, Pahinui, Phillips and Scoville NAY: Lyons).

The Chair called a recess to allow the Neighborhood Assistant to administer the oath of office to Tammy Ann Escorzon.

Tammy Ann Escorzon was appointed; 14 members present.

Honolulu Fire Department – Capt. John Bredin reported;

October 2010 Statistics: Included 1 vehicle fire, 61 medical emergencies, 7 search/rescues and 13 miscellaneous calls.

Safety Tip – For many people, the holiday season means festive decorations, extensive food preparations and family get togethers. Enjoy family celebrations during the holiday season with the following helpful fire wise tips:

Consider a fire resistant, artificial Christmas tree. If a real tree is purchased, choose one as fresh as possible and keep it hydrated and away from heat sources. Use non-combustible materials for decorations. Choose only underwriter’s laboratory approved electrical decorations and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and usage. Do not over load extension cords.
Family gatherings often include extensive food preparation and visiting guests. If you must leave the stove, even for a few minutes, turn it off. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires. Have a metal lid ready to cover grease fires in pans. Never wear long, loose sleeved clothing while cooking. Turn the handles on pots and pans inward to prevent accidents. Keep children away from cooking areas.
Turkey fryers can be very dangerous. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) discourages the use of outdoor gas fueled turkey fryers that immerse the poultry in hot oil. The NFPA states that turkey fryers that use oil, as currently designed, are not suitable for acceptably safe use even by a well informed and careful consumer. Further information can be found on the NFPA website at www.nfpa.org. Using the search engine, type in “turkey fryers”.
If you are hosting overnight guests, share your home escape plan with them, including the designated meeting place outside the home.

Honolulu Police Departmet – Lt. G. Lum Kee reported;

October 2010 Statistics: Included 3 unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle (UCPV), 2 auto thefts, 5 burglaries, 37 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV) and 24 thefts.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

Bikes: An increase of bikes at night was noted. It was asked if classes would be held to educate bicyclists on bike safety. It was noted that the Captain would need to be contacted to schedule classes.

Bike Lights: It was asked and clarified that bikes must have lights when riding at night.

Bike Bells: It was suggested bikes be equipped with bells to warn pedestrians.

Mayor Carlisle’s Representative – Jim Fulton reported;

City Lands: The process of selling City lands is described in Chapter 37, Revised Ordinance of Honolulu, 1990, as amended. Any City agency having under its jurisdiction and control real property which is no longer desired or needed by the agency submits a list of such real property to the Budget and Fiscal Services Director (“BFS Director”). The BFS Director prepares an inventory of such real property and circulates this list to the agencies of the City. If any other City agency indicates a need for the use of any listed real property, the BFS Director may recommend to the Mayor the transfer of the use of the real property to that City agency. If the real property is not recommended for transfer to another City agency, or is not transferred within a reasonable time, the property is then deemed surplus real property. The BFS Director, with the concurrence of the Corporation Counsel, shall determine whether to recommend to the City Council the disposal of the surplus real property. The BFS Director submits a recommendation and draft resolution to the City Council before any surplus real property may be disposed of. The City Council determines whether to adopt the resolution authorizing the BFS Director to dispose of the surplus property in accordance with that resolution or by ordinance.

Kaukonahua Road: The issue regarding access to parcel 6-5-2:23 along Kaukonahua Road was forwarded to the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP). The DPP investigation found they do not have purview over the driveway access along this portion of Kaukonahua Road, and a permit was not required for the access. The City is contact the owner to request they voluntarily consider setting the chain and stanchions further into the property.

John Kalili Surf Center: Removing the screws to allow the doors to be opened will not be allowed. The sliding doors were secured to each other and the walls to prevent them from falling over. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) recommends that if the posted 112 person capacity of the room is not sufficient, the activity or meeting sponsors use an alternate site such as Haleiwa Elementary Cafeteria.

Waialua Elementary School: The flashing warning lights are part of a contract package that will go out to bid in December 2010. Implementation is expected around March 2011.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

Money: It was asked and clarified that the City could sell City lands as a way to raise money; however, it was noted that a decision to sell the park lands near Jameson’s has not been made. It was assured the City will follow the law and work with the community.

Veto: It was asked if the Mayor had the power to veto a City Council decision to sell City parcels. The question was noted.

Kaukonahua Road: It was noted that the access to the property on Kaukonahua Road is at an S-curve. It was noted that traffic builds when 18 wheel trucks enter the property.

Figueria Survey: A survey taken by Senator Figueria was requested. It was noted the survey reflected public support for the proposed Haleiwa hotel.

List of Surplus Lands: It was requested a list highlighting City surplus lands be produced for public review. It was asked and clarified that the list does exist. It was noted that efforts are being made to have BFS post an online list for review.

Waialua Traffic Lights: Gratitude was expressed for the installation of flashing lights at Waialua Elementary School.

Community Interaction: It was requested the City consult with the community before selling any lands. It was noted the City acquired the land from Kamehameha Schools as a donation; however, problems were encountered while attempting to develop a park.

Sale: It was suggested the City put the land up for sale to everyone if the City were looking at gaining the most money for the land. It was noted that City ordinance mandates that abutting property owners must be offered the land before other individuals are permitted to bid.

Board of Water Supply – Sandy Nahoopii-Soong reported;

October Water Main Break: There was a four (4) inch water main break at Kaimanu Place.

2010-2011 Halawa Xeriscape Garden: The BWS and the Friends of Halawa Xeriscape Garden are announcing the 2010-2011 Saturday Xeriscape Workshop schedule. These fun and educational workshops, which are held at the Board of Water Supply’s Halawa Xeriscape Garden, focus on the concept of xeriscaping – an innovative means of conserving water through efficient landscaping and other means of saving water outdoors. BWS estimates that about half of the water consumed by the average single family is used outdoors. Incorporating xeriscaping techniques at home has shown to reduce water consumption anywhere between 30 and 80 percent, which also results in lower water bills. The Xeriscape Holiday Wreath workshop will be coming up on November 27, 2010. The ever-popular rain barrel catchment workshops are coming up in February and May 2011, in addition to classes on composting, organic pest control, and much more. Copies of the schedule for the board members and the public are on the table. Visit the BWS website www.boardofwatersupply.com to check out the exciting list of classes being offered at the Halawa Xersicape Garden. Again, all of the workshops offered help to educate the community about water conservation outdoors.

Water Meter Maintenance: The BWS is responsible for the maintenance of water meters and it is important that the meter box area is clear of grass and debris, so that BWS crews can easily access it, if needed. Please do not attempt any repairs or modifications to the meter box. Instead, call BWS at 748-5000. More information about water meter maintenance may be found in the rules and regulations section of the BWS website.

Water Connection: BWS apologized for any inconvenience caused by the water line connection project on Friday, November 19, 2010 at the Pupukea Road/Kamehameha Highway intersection.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

Information: BWS was commended for adequately informing the public of the water line connection project.

Councilmember Reed Matsuura – Kim Ribellia and Reed Matsuura reported that former Councilmember Donovan Dela Cruz won his race for State Senate and Reed Matsuura has been appointed to fill the City Council District 2 seat until January. Councilmember Elect Ernie Martin will be sworn into office in January and Reed Matsuura will continue to serve on the staff. Ernie Martin will serve as budget Chair on the City Council. A special mail in election will take place to fill the vacant seat left by former Councilmember Todd Apo. The Waialua flashing light will be fully federally funded.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

Zoning Variance: It was expressed that a change in zoning variance in Waikiki may set precedence for Turtle Bay to do the same. It was suggested the request to change the zoning variance not be approved.

Capitol Improvement Projects (CIP): It was asked and clarified that suggestions for capitol improvement projects be submitted as soon as possible. It was noted that the Mayor will finalize the budget by March. The Chair instructed each sub-district to submit three (3) suggestions for capitol improvement projects. Of the nine (9), the Chair will submit three (3) to the City Council in January.

Sustainable Community Plan: It was asked and clarified that the City Council will discuss the North Shore sustainable community plan in either January or February.

Unfunded City Liabilities: It was noted that unfunded City liabilities include the rail project, other post-employment benefits (OPED) and wastewater/sewer.

Treasurer’s Report – R. Leinau reported expenditures of a $125.49 for printing and postage and a $250.00 for videotaping for the month of October 2010. The report was filed.

COMMITTEES:

Transportation Committee – There was no report.

Flood/Emergency/Waterway – Jacob Ng reported that nine (9) letters have been submitted to government officials relating to flood and emergency issues. A response has yet to be received. It was reported that more rain gauges have been installed.

Disaster Preparedness – Antya Miller reported that the storage container for disaster equipment has been painted. The container will be filled with supplies by the end of 2010.

Homelessness Committee – Kathleen Pahinui reported that the committee is continuing to work on the executive summary. A full report will be given in January 2011.

Agriculture Committee – Jacqueline Leinau reported that a representative from the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources will be invited to speak about the University of Hawaii Waile’e property at the next meeting on January 20, 2011 at the Waialua Community Association at 7:00 p.m. A letter is being drafted on behalf of North Shore Farmers to request an upgrade in Lake Wilson irrigation water. Farmers are encouraged to attend the next agricultural task force at Honolulu Hale on January 10, 2011.

U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii – Maj. Cabales invited the community to bid farewell to the 25th infantry on November 24, 2010 at Schofield Barracks. Individuals without military decals must provide proper identification and vehicle information at Lyman Gate. A tree lighting event will take place on December 9, 2010 at Palm Circle. Individuals may check in ay Butler Gate. Training will take place at Dillingham from November 29 to December 6, 2010 and from December 13 to 17, 2010.
RESIDENTS’/COMMUNITY CONCERNS:

1. Kamehameha Schools: It was requested that time be appropriated at the next regular Board meeting to receive public comment about a proposed Kapailoa Learning Center near Matsumoto’s shaved ice. Kamehameha Schools is seeking an environmental assessment.

2. Parade: A parade will take place at Weed Circle from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on December 10, 2010.

3. Save the Surfers: Save the surfers is a nonprofit program to educate students on water safety. The program will work with the Jr. Lifeguards program.

APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 26, 2010 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES:

Corrections to the minutes included;

Page 1 – Under members absent should read…Blake McElheny and Jacqueline Leinau.

Page 1 – Under guests should read…Hottie Nichols, Dorothy K. Awai…

Page 5 – Under September meeting should read…that individuals could not hear due to…

Page 6 – Under line of sight should read…From Waimea Bay and bridge.

Page 7 – Under volunteer should read…Haleiwa Beach Park…

The October 26, 2010 regular meeting minutes were UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED as amended, 14-0-0 (AYE: Alameida, Bellows, Escorzon, Hirota, Kawahakui, J. Leinau, R. Leinau, Lyons, McElheny, Miller, Ng, Pahinui, Phillips and Scoville).

AGENDA REQUESTS:

Department of Parks and Recreation: It was requested a Department of Parks and Recreation representative be present at the next meeting to discuss the sale of City park lands.

Transportation Committee Chair: It was suggested the next agenda include time to appoint a new Transportation Committee Chair.

BOARD BUSINESS:

Kamehameha Schools (KS) Park Land Acquisition: Giorgio Caldarone, Kalani Fronda, Kirra Downing and Dawn Farm Ramsey reported plans to acquire City owned parcels adjacent to the Jameson’s property. Kamehameha Schools currently owns the Lokoea fishpond adjacent to the City parcels. If offered the parcels, a portion would be developed into a parking area to allow access to educational programs held at the Lokoea fish pond. It was suggested the remaining portion of land be given to a Trust for Public Land (TPL) to develop a public park. It was noted that by placing the remaining land in a land trust, the City would no longer be responsible for the land and the public would have the opportunity to develop a park. It was assured the proposed plan would be consistent with the North Shore sustainable community plan and Kamehameha School’s vision.

Question, comments and concerns followed;

1. Alternate Plan: It was asked and clarified that KS would request an access easement if the City does not sell land.

2. Condemnation: It was asked if the condemnation of land in 1968 was friendly. Due to lack of records, there was no response.

3. Land Trust: It was requested that local nonprofits be considered before making a final decision on a land trust.

4. Public Park: It was expressed that the park should be open to all.

5. Timeline: It was asked and clarified that that an exact timeline is unsure; however, it was noted that a proposal to the City is required by December. It was estimated that the project would take one (1) year to complete if City approval is granted.

6. Pond Access: It was asked if more people would be allowed to visit the fishpond. It was noted that the KS program would eventually evolve to accommodate more visitors.

7. Jobs: It was asked and clarified that no long term jobs will be associated with the fishpond. It was noted that local contractors would be used for construction.

United States Geological Survey (USGS): Ed Teixeira reported on two (2) water warning gauges used to track flood levels. It was also reported that a new website has been launched to track flood levels and to send alerts to individuals about flooding conditions. It was noted that the program is still in its discovery stages and residents were encouraged to utilize the program and provide feedback. The website is www.water.usgs.gov/wateralert. Individuals have the ability to configure the frequency of alerts and choose to have messages sent through email or text message.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

1. Early Alerts: It was suggested that individuals configure alerts to monitor low levels to get early alerts of potential flooding. It was noted due to the newness of the program community and lack of actual data, community feedback is crucial to better gauge flooding tendencies in the area.

2. Siren: It was asked and confirmed that flood warnings will not coincide with civil defense sirens.

3. Recommended Warning Level: It was suggested to set the first warning level at three (3) feet.

ELECTED OFFICIALS:

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono – No representative was present; no report was given.

Senator-Elect Donovan Dela Cruz – Yun Kim reported that Senator-Elect Dela Cruz had been appointed Chair of the Housing and Agricultural Committees. Individuals may forward questions to [email protected] or by calling 586-6090.

Representative Gil Riviere – Representative Gil Riviere reported that it is likely that he will be on the Housing and Agricultural committees. It was noted that Calvin Say is currently being challenged for the speaker seat. Questions may be forwarded to [email protected] or by calling 586-3380.

Questions, comments and concerns followed;

Community meetings: It was asked and clarified that meetings are being set to discuss issues with the community.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. Land Sale Meeting Special Meeting: A special meeting to discuss the possible land sale in Haleiwa is being scheduled pending responses of the involved parties. The meeting will be held on either February 2 or 16, 2011 at the Waialua Community Association.

2. Next Meeting: The Next North Shore Neighborhood Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at the John Kalili Surf Center at 7:00 p.m.

ADOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.

Submitted by: Kazuaki McArthur, Neighborhood Assistant

Reviewed by: Mike Lyons, Chair