No 01 Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting October 2025
Hawaiʻi Kai Neighborhood Board Meeting
Board Introductions and Quorum
Chair Roberta Mayer opened the evening by welcoming attendees and confirming a sufficient quorum to conduct business. Each in-person and virtual board member introduced themselves, representing various sub-districts across Hawaiʻi Kai. It was noted that the board comprises 15 seats, with three vacancies open to community members willing to serve. The chair stated that the board would seek volunteers and potentially convert sub-district seats to at-large seats if necessary.
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) Report
A representative from the Hawaiʻi Kai Fire Station shared statistics for September 2025, indicating one structure fire, nine non-fire activated alarms, 88 medical emergencies, one motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian, two motor vehicle collisions, two mountain rescues, one ocean rescue, and one hazardous material incident. The HFD reminded residents to use fire-resistant, Underwriters Laboratory-approved decorations during the holiday season and to avoid overloading electrical strips or leaving candles unattended. The conversation also addressed the department’s response to red-flag alert conditions. The HFD representative emphasized that while they stay vigilant, they rely on public reporting to address potentially dangerous bonfires or other hazards.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) Report
A District 7 lieutenant provided crime data, highlighting two motor vehicle thefts, two burglaries, six thefts, and seven motor vehicle collisions over the past month. HPD focused on Halloween safety guidance for trick-or-treaters, parents, and homeowners, encouraging the use of reflective elements and flashlights for visibility. A question regarding newly installed video surveillance devices at scenic lookout points along the highway prompted discussion of their deterrent effect on criminal activity. The chair also noted that the board had written to the city council regarding parking and abandoned vehicle ordinances and copied HPD leadership on the letter.
Kaiser Complex Schools Update
Principal Shannon Gu reported on the progress of the Kaiser High School Performing and Visual Arts Complex, which recently contracted a design firm and began site surveys. The school hosted over 300 visiting Japanese students and teachers from Hokkaidō for a week-long exchange program, fostering cultural learning and future exchange possibilities. New Valley Middle School’s robust after-school programs, encompassing more than 50 activities and sports, underscore the complex’s commitment to student engagement and belonging. Aina Haina Elementary School’s acceptance into the Japanese Language Education Assistant Program marked another highlight, reflecting an ongoing emphasis on language and cultural programs throughout the complex.
Department of Transportation
A state Department of Transportation (DOT) representative, Galen, provided brief updates, noting that a final Kalaniʻanoʻole Highway study report had been shared with relevant stakeholders. The board awaits further information on what pesticides DOT uses on median landscaping. A later request concerned the health of palm trees along the highway median, which appeared to be declining, and the board asked for confirmation on any replanting or corrective measures planned.
Community Announcements
Community groups offered several updates. Hawaiʻi Advocates for Responsible Development (HĀRD) continues to collect signatures and seek volunteers to protect the character of open spaces in the area. Another representative discussed restoration of a small hale at the Havea Heiau and ongoing efforts to mitigate the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle threat, given the large number of coconut trees on that site. Tom Cooper announced his volunteer initiative to deliver treats to public servants working on holidays. The board also heard about an upcoming race, the Bassetti Sunrise 10K on January 1st, which will begin and end at Kalama Valley District Park, with organizers mindful of early-morning noise and street closures.
Public-Generated Issues
Halemanu Apartments
Concerns arose over reports that families were being displaced through a renovation project that converts certain three-bedroom units into two-bedroom or one-bedroom units. A representative from Avalon Hawaiʻi explained that the changes respond to the high demand for smaller units and the financial challenges of maintaining larger affordable apartments. Tenants—particularly those with housing vouchers who could not occupy oversized units—are being offered ongoing assistance and relocation options within the property or in other managed locations. The board welcomed these assurances, noting the importance of maintaining affordable housing inventory within the community.
Bassetti Sunrise 10K
Race organizers described a long-standing New Year’s Day 10K event that loops around Kalama Valley and into Kamilioʻiki. They clarified their schedule—an early 7 a.m. start with HPD presence for traffic safety—and apologized in advance for any noise. The event customarily concludes around 9 or 9:30 a.m. to minimize inconvenience to neighbors.
Hawaiʻi Energy Empower Grant Presentation
A representative from Hawaiʻi Energy detailed a grant program benefiting small businesses and nonprofits seeking to make energy-efficient upgrades, from air-conditioning and refrigeration to water heating. Eligible entities must fall into certain utility rate schedules and square-footage criteria; the program provides reimbursements up to $6,000 per project. The Energy Advantage Program, offering free lighting upgrades, was also introduced, requiring only a few simple steps and the use of vetted contractors. Hawaiʻi Energy encourages all qualifying organizations to apply, aiming to reduce utility costs and support clean energy goals statewide.
Exceptional Tree Program Presentation
An arborist from the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Mayor’s Arborist Advisory Committee described the Exceptional Tree Program, created to protect especially notable, often large, and culturally valuable trees. Trees or groves must meet criteria based on age, size, rarity, cultural significance, or location. Once a tree is designated as “exceptional,” it receives stronger protections, including proper pruning requirements and limitations on allowable removals. The board recognized opportunities to nominate local stands of unique trees, noting this program’s relevance to the community’s interest in preserving its natural heritage and scenic character.
Board Vacancies
Three sub-district seats remain open. The chair encouraged community members to volunteer, explaining that if vacancies remain unfilled, the board may consider reducing sub-district boundaries or temporarily converting them to at-large positions. The board will continue to welcome prospective candidates at future meetings.
Government Officials’ Reports
Either in person or via virtual platforms, representatives from the mayor’s office, the governor’s office, and several legislators offered updates. The mayor’s representative highlighted the reopening of the metallic silhouette range at the Koko Head Shooting Complex and was asked to provide a thorough list of safety improvements implemented during renovations. The governor’s representative answered questions on state land management post-wildfire and confirmed ongoing reforestation with native species. Legislators discussed outreach efforts, shared newsletters, and sought constituent feedback on topics ranging from homelessness to potential legislation for the 2026 session.
Board Business
Ka‘ivi Coast Scenic Byway
The board remained committed to safeguarding natural resources along this scenic route. Members discussed recent reports of bird fatalities potentially attributed to feral cats. The board agreed to explore expert input from a local professor to determine if feasible actions—such as feeding bans or site-specific mitigations—can better protect these ground-nesting bird colonies.
Kamilonui Valley Agriculture
No new developments were reported in this meeting. The board stressed the importance of monitoring the valley’s agricultural lots to ensure local farming interests remain strong in Hawaiʻi Kai.
Meeting Minutes Approval and Next Meeting
The board approved the previous meeting’s minutes, with minor wording adjustments. The next meeting date was announced for Tuesday, November 25th at 7:00 p.m. in the Ha‘aione Elementary School cafeteria and via Webex. The community was reminded that Neighborhood Board meetings are broadcast on ‘Ōlelo Channel 49, and past sessions can be accessed online. The chair thanked attendees for their participation and adjourned the meeting.