No 18 Āliamanu-Salt Lake-Foster Village Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting October 2025
Salt Lake Neighborhood Board Meeting
Police and Crime Updates
The meeting began with a police representative sharing crime statistics for September, noting slight variations in categories such as aggravated assault, burglary, robbery, and assault compared to August. There were zero aggravated assaults, three fatalities, and minimal shifts between months for certain crimes, such as simple assault decreasing from four incidents to three. The report indicated a slight increase in calls for service, from 538 to 541. No major concerns were flagged, though the representative encouraged attendees to remain vigilant and to contact the station with questions or issues.
Traffic Safety and Pedestrian Awareness
Local police also emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety, urging residents to establish eye contact with drivers before crossing and to wave to ensure recognition. They discussed an ongoing traffic awareness campaign to prevent road rage and accidents, especially those involving pedestrians. Attendees were urged to take extra caution at crosswalks, even though pedestrians technically have the right-of-way, so as to avoid unnecessary collisions.
Navy Recognition and Community Service Award
The board recognized the United States Navy in honor of its 250th birthday, commending its longstanding dedication to protecting national maritime interests, economic prosperity, and quality of life. A commemorative certificate was prepared for presentation at an upcoming meeting. Board members expressed gratitude for the Navy’s continued service and underscored its integral role in national security.
Salt Lake Waterway Clean-Up Initiatives
A neighborhood representative gave details on November clean-up plans for the Salt Lake Waterway. Two events were announced: one focused on creating “dainty balls” (mud-based mixtures used to improve water health) and a subsequent event dedicated to tossing these into the waterway. Parking details, waivers, and coordination with the Honolulu Country Club were also highlighted. The goal is to restore the waterway’s condition through community collaboration, with promises of continued improvement and renewed partnerships to maintain momentum.
Community Parades and Holiday Celebrations
A community member spoke about the Salt Lake Christmas Parade scheduled for December 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., stating that the procession would begin at Moanalua High School and follow a shortened, five-mile route through neighborhood streets. Organizers sought feedback to expand participation, music, and overall engagement in response to critiques from last year’s parade. The parade committee plans to finalize details at the next meeting and is open to public input.
Board Vacancies and New Members
The board moved to fill multiple vacant seats. Douglas K. and Clarence D. were among those who presented themselves for consideration, both citing strong desire to serve the public. Each nominee provided brief personal remarks on their background and commitment. After formal votes, the board welcomed its newest members, who will contribute to initiatives such as homelessness outreach and ongoing neighborhood projects.
Stadium Redevelopment and Community Events
A representative from the state provided an update on the Aloha Stadium redevelopment. Officials finalized agreements to enable demolition of the existing structure and move forward with plans for a new stadium. Preparations include utility work, hazardous material removal, and equipment mobilization by late 2023 or early 2024. Upcoming stadium events, including a final “Aloha to Aloha Stadium” music celebration on October 25, were shared. The plan for relocating the swap meet to the Halawa parking lot also holds the promise of improved vendor arrangements, with on-site storage and a more secure layout.
Water Supply and Conservation Measures
A Board of Water Supply representative gave a monthly update on main breaks and urged residents to use water more efficiently. Four main breaks were reported in September, near addresses such as 1584 Ala Lilikoi Street and 2706 Kilihau Street. Emphasis was placed on reducing water consumption by 20% through simple habits like shutting off taps while brushing teeth, shorter showers, and irrigating early in the morning. The representative encouraged residents to visit the Board of Water Supply’s website for conservation resources.
Parking and Homelessness Concerns
Concerns surfaced regarding the unauthorized parking of multiple cars for commercial sale in residential areas, prompting frustration among residents who struggle to find available spots. The board chair requested updated license plates to be forwarded to the city for action. Newly seated board members voiced particular interest in strengthening homeless outreach programs and collaborating with service agencies. They also underscored the urgent need for practical, long-term solutions to keep sidewalks and parking lanes clear and safe.
Council and Legislative Reports
Representatives from the City Council, the Governor’s Office, and multiple state legislators offered an array of updates. Topics included upcoming smoke testing on wastewater systems, proposals for revision of city charters, and continuing legislative attention on everything from early childhood care programs to city bus route modifications. Notable projects included the “Pets in Prison” initiative, which fosters kittens in correctional facilities to rehabilitate both animals and inmates. Elected officials reminded the public that updates on new bills, environmental services, and other city or state initiatives can be found in their newsletters or on official websites.
Pesticide Use and Environmental Impact
A speaker shared information about harmful pesticides, including restricted use pesticides and the need to strengthen buffer zones around schools and other public areas. The presentation touched on potential groundwater contamination, impacts on pollinators, and possible legislation to improve environmental testing and transparency. Board members expressed interest in how stricter oversight might protect local waterways and neighborhoods next to golf courses or other large landscaped grounds.
Emergency Disaster Preparedness
The board unanimously passed a resolution urging government officials at all levels to commit to stronger disaster preparedness measures. The chair read a formal statement calling for clearer laws, adequate funding, improvements to building codes, and thorough planning for emergencies, whether natural disasters or other threats. Two board representatives were chosen to participate in a permitted interaction group with other neighborhood boards to address shortfalls in current matters of emergency readiness and coordinate next-step solutions.
Meeting Conclusion
Before closing, new board members were invited to share their priorities. Public safety, addressing homelessness, and expanding the reach of community events emerged as common themes. Attendees were reminded about ongoing waterway clean-ups and the upcoming holiday parade. The board will reconvene on November 13, with hopes of continuing robust discussions and taking focused action on issues affecting Salt Lake and surrounding neighborhoods.