No 31 Kailua Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting November 2025
Waikīkī Neighborhood Board Meeting
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) Monthly Report
In October, HPD recorded one motor vehicle theft, two burglaries, 18 thefts, seven unauthorized entries into motor vehicles, and zero robberies. Compared to the previous month, this represents a drop in motor vehicle thefts from five to one, burglaries from five to two, and thefts from 25 to 18, with a rise in UEMVs (from four to seven). A lieutenant introduced Sergeant Sherman Dalkin and Officer Andrew Moss, who oversee the Kailua and Waimānalo areas. They discussed routine patrols, community engagement, and how HPD coordinates with federal agencies during immigration or ICE operations. HPD clarified it is not directly involved in federal raids but will assist with perimeter security if requested. Concerns about abandoned vehicles near Kapaa Quarry Road were raised, with residents noting an increase in cars that appear to be junked or inhabited. Officers explained enforcement procedures, citation possibilities, the challenge of private property boundaries, and the process for towing abandoned vehicles if they remain in violation after being marked.
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) and Cooking Safety Tips
Captain Jason Mao of the Kailua Fire Station reported October’s statistics: zero fires, six activated fire alarms, 91 medical emergencies, one motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian, 11 motor vehicle crashes, five mountain rescues, zero ocean rescues, and one hazardous materials incident. The month’s key safety topic was cooking safety, as cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and injuries. HFD emphasized staying alert, never leaving heat sources unattended, and keeping flammable materials away from stoves. Residents were advised not to cook while drowsy or under the influence of alcohol, use timers, and maintain safe distances for children and pets.
Honolulu Ocean Safety Updates
Lieutenant Tristan Fabro presented October data for the Kailua district, spanning from Lanikai Beach to Castles. With an attendance of about 90,000 visitors, lifeguards performed around 7,000 preventative actions, 850 first aids, and 12,000 public contacts. They made five ocean rescues and participated in a three-day joint search with HFD, HPD, and the Coast Guard for a missing paddler. When asked about advice for solo ocean activities, Lieutenant Fabro recommended having detailed float plans, letting someone know routes and expected return times, and wearing bright clothing for better visibility in rescue scenarios.
Board of Water Supply (BWS) Update
A BWS representative reported two main breaks in October: an eight-inch ductile iron break on Keola Drive and another on Akaiki, both installed in 1956. BWS urged residents to stay informed on service disruptions via its website or social media and sign up for HNL Alerts. Questions arose regarding a large cesspool truck that periodically appears near a water pump station. BWS clarified that sewage handling trucks are generally under Environmental Services (ENV) jurisdiction. The representative also addressed the status of a future water tank installation, noting no confirmed start date but estimating some progress next year.
Resident and Community Concerns: Triangle Park, Waimānalo Parade, and Other Issues
Residents voiced concerns about Triangle Park transitioning into a heavy equipment staging area during sewer line work. Gravel was added without community notice, and many worry the space will not be fully restored to its former condition for community use. Organizers for the Waimānalo Christmas Parade on December 13th announced road closures along Kalanianaʻole Highway in Waimānalo between 8:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. They also invited neighbors to enjoy a Hoʻolauleʻa afterward featuring entertainment, scholarships, and kupuna tributes. Another resident petitioned lawmakers to address an unidentified legislator involved in an alleged bribe scandal; they requested the state form an independent investigative committee to maintain government transparency.
Lani Huni Senior Apartments Parking Challenges
Several tenants from Lani Huni Senior Apartments described the difficulty of finding affordable and safe parking. Although the property offers a reserved caged area for a fraction of its 81 units, the long waiting list forces many to pay meters on the adjacent city lot throughout the day, incurring high costs or exposure to unsafe conditions on distant side streets. Residents asked for extended free parking hours, better management oversight, or new permits for seniors with legitimate needs. Council Member Esther Kiaʻāina committed to arranging meetings involving the Department of Transportation Services and the building’s management to explore feasible solutions.
Mayor’s Representative and City Infrastructure Updates
Shayna Enright, on behalf of Mayor Blangiardi, conveyed information about ongoing and upcoming city projects. She highlighted the Kalapawai roundabout nearing completion, explained the city’s long-range Complete Streets plans for Keolu Drive, and reiterated the city’s commitment to Vision Zero strategies, such as lower speed limits in school zones, stricter electric bicycle regulations, and pedestrian safety improvements. She also confirmed that the hexagon-shaped Kailua parking lot upgrades face challenges but remain on the city’s project list, while clarifying that proper oversight will ensure Triangle Park is reinstated to usable condition.
State and Local Legislative Reports
City Council Member Esther Kiaʻāina provided updates on upcoming charter amendments, including broadening the Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund to incorporate historic preservation efforts. She noted that ongoing stormwater management meetings in Kailua allow community voting on prioritizing flood mitigation and water quality measures. Representative Lisa Martin detailed the effects of the partial federal shutdown on SNAP benefits, urging the public to look into rent and utility assistance programs funded by the state’s TANF reserves. Representative Mike Lee described progress on a legislative task force aimed at accelerating permit approvals without sacrificing safety or environmental protection, including a focus on individual wastewater systems and cesspool conversions. He also related community concerns about Kalaheo High School’s campus conditions, particularly with side-gate traffic, crossing students, and potential electrical issues in locker rooms.
Sewage Fee and Billing Changes
ENV Director Roger Babcock outlined a new sewer fee structure taking effect January 1st, featuring a reduced monthly base rate and a higher volumetric rate. The strategy aims to encourage water conservation: users who consume less water will see smaller bill increases over time. Babcock affirmed the department is creating its own billing system, potentially separating sewer charges from the Board of Water Supply bill. This reflects planned capital improvements and continued regulatory compliance to upgrade sewage facilities. Residents asked about sub-metering and cesspool pumping sites on the Windward side, with the director noting possible expansions and environmental protocols.
Adjournment
Board members thanked city and state representatives, community members, and local agencies for their time and efforts. The meeting concluded with reminders that committees would recess for the holidays and reconvene for regular business in the new year. The board reemphasized the importance of community input on issues affecting safety, infrastructure, and quality of life, inviting everyone to participate in forthcoming committee meetings and neighborhood events.