No 13 Downtown Chinatown Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting February 2026
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13 Downtown-Chinatown Neighborhood Board Meeting – February 7, 2026
Introductions and Call to Order
Chair Ernest Carvalho opened the meeting by introducing the board members. He noted that the agenda would proceed directly into official reports and community concerns. The board welcomed several residents, community stakeholders, and city representatives, all gathered to address neighborhood matters. Upon confirming quorum, the meeting was called to order.
Public Safety Reports
The Honolulu Fire Department reported on January 2026 statistics, including responses to structure fires, nuisance fires, medical emergencies, and a hazardous materials incident. They announced a transition to the National Emergency Response Information System for coding and classifying incidents, which may change how statistics are tallied from now on. The department emphasized the importance of calling 911 rather than driving to a fire station, explaining that fire companies may be out on other duties. They also reminded attendees that 911 text messaging is available for emergencies in areas of poor voice reception.
The Honolulu Police Department shared crime statistics for January, highlighting counts for motor vehicle thefts, burglaries, thefts, assaults, and drug incidents. They observed a slight decrease in total calls for service compared to the previous month. Questions arose about HPD’s cooperation with federal authorities, particularly regarding protections for residents if they encounter questionable federal law enforcement activity. Community members also asked about patrols for homeless-related issues and calls concerning vagrancy, drug use, and obstructed sidewalks. HPD explained they operate a small Chinatown task force and noted staffing constraints, urging residents to call 911 for any immediate concerns. The board questioned enforcement of the sit-lie ban, citing instances of individuals lying on sidewalks and the need for consistent follow-up. HPD encouraged people to keep reporting, as they depend on calls to document problem areas.
Barrier Tree on Fort Street Mall
During the Fire Department’s segment, the board raised an issue regarding a tree positioned on Fort Street Mall that hinders direct emergency vehicle access. Due to tree placement, crews must take a longer route to certain addresses. Although firefighters do maintain alternative response routes, the chair suggested exploring ways to remove or relocate this central tree for faster emergency access. The Honolulu Fire Department expressed openness to ideas and recommended contacting their community relations office for further discussion.
Board Vacancy and At-Large Seat
The board announced an at-large seat vacancy and allowed candidates to speak. Two candidates, Kevin McDonald and former board member Laura Sturges, expressed interest and introduced their visions for improving neighborhood safety, accountability, and local business support. By roll-call vote, the board selected Sturges for the seat. She took her oath and briefly reintroduced herself, sharing her longtime residence and commitment to seeing downtown Chinatown thrive.
Economic Driver Presentation
Ron Lee, a commercial real estate broker with experience in Chinatown, presented concepts to boost economic activity. He outlined ideas such as transit-oriented development around the future rail station, a large public market featuring multi-ethnic food offerings, historical and cultural museums focusing on Chinatown’s past, and more eye-catching architecture to attract visitors. He suggested that tapping into tourism, building stronger commercial synergy near the rail station, and creating vibrant attractions would help revitalize local commerce. Questions surfaced about logistical challenges, small business concerns, and beautification efforts, with board members underscoring the need for stronger police presence and safer streets to attract interested developers and visitors alike.
Proposed Statue of Admiral Hoang Co Minh
Representatives of the Vietnamese Community Organization outlined a proposal to erect a statue of Admiral Hoang Co Minh along College Walk. They described his significance to Vietnamese history and his advocacy for freedom and democracy. The statue would join other cultural monuments that highlight the diverse backgrounds of Chinatown’s residents and business owners. Board members embraced the request, pointing to similar statues of leaders from other ethnic communities. By vote, the board agreed to support placing the statue at College Walk, with the plan to continue working with relevant city agencies.
ACLU Presentation on ICE Enforcement
Representatives from the ACLU of Hawaii explained efforts to protect immigrant rights in the face of federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity. They highlighted legislative proposals that aim to limit local cooperation with ICE beyond what is legally required, ensure due process, and increase public awareness of constitutional rights. They expressed plans to do outreach, including distributing “Know Your Rights” materials to local merchants in Chinatown and possibly expanding documentation efforts if ICE were to increase its presence. Board members raised questions about resources, language access, and privacy, as well as the prospects of local law enforcement assisting as observers. Attendees noted that community confidence would be boosted if residents understand that basic civil liberties are respected.
Public Concerns and Neighborhood Conditions
Residents emphasized persistent worries about homelessness, open drug use, sidewalk obstructions, and harassment of pedestrians. Kekalike Courtyard’s tenants stressed the need for improved security, describing discarded needles and other hazards. Others reiterated that bathrooms around downtown are scarce and urged the city to expedite installation of new public restroom facilities. A local bar owner raised concerns about noise complaints, explaining that the source of late-night disturbances is not always clear or fairly attributed. HPD and board members reiterated that all issues need continual documenting through 911 calls and city channels so data can guide enforcement priorities.
Elected Officials’ Updates
Representatives from the Governor’s office, the Mayor’s office, City Council District 6, and congressional offices gave short updates on initiatives impacting downtown Chinatown. The Governor’s liaison summarized new housing efforts, funding for homelessness services, and coordination with federal agencies on the Red Hill water situation. The City Council office described progress on the new Downtown business improvement district, updates to special event permitting for cultural festivals, and efforts to streamline commercial leasing of vacant city properties in Chinatown. The Mayor’s representative highlighted priorities for tackling potholes and other infrastructure issues, but attendees stressed that road conditions remain a major concern. State legislators provided an overview of various bills, including reforms to limit ICE overreach, free or reduced bus fares, and new laws targeting unethical behavior in government. Senator Karl Rhoads’ team confirmed his opposition to the recreation-center redevelopment of Kamali‘i Mini Park and indicated that city officials had yet to outline a final plan. The conversation indicated considerable public desire to preserve green and open spaces in the neighborhood.
Reports from Agencies and Community Organizations
Board of Water Supply reviewed monthly water usage data, program rebates for efficient appliances, and ongoing Red Hill safeguards. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation shared its newsletter, underscoring track work progress and community outreach. The Chinatown Business and Community Association discussed sidewalk clearance efforts and coordination with homeless service providers, noting a slight positive uptick in business activity. The Neighborhood Citizens Patrol encouraged participation in monthly walks to identify street-level problems, emphasizing how dedicated volunteers help track community challenges and share real-time information with authorities.
Upcoming Events, Meeting Announcements, and Adjournment
The board invited residents to attend a parade scheduled on February 14 to celebrate the Lunar New Year, complete with rolling street closures. They also mentioned further festivities around Chinatown the weekend before and after the parade. Members set a tentative plan to organize a board-led neighborhood cleanup, asking everyone to propose dates and areas of focus at the next meeting. The next regular board meeting will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Kapālama school facilities and via WebEx. With all agenda items addressed, the meeting was formally adjourned.