No 16 Kalihi Valley Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting November 2025
Kalihi Neighborhood Board Meeting
Award Recognition for HPD Officer
A local police officer was honored by the board and community members for exemplary service. The officer coordinated “Operation Follow-Through,” a sustained, multi-agency initiative aimed at shutting down illegal game rooms and keeping them from reopening. This effort addressed gun-related incidents, drug activity, and other criminal behaviors, underscoring an ongoing priority to protect the safety, integrity, and quality of life within the community. During the ceremony, attendees thanked the officer for dedicated work, long hours devoted to reducing threats, and collaboration with local agencies to restore peace in the neighborhood.
City Monthly Reports: Honolulu Fire Department
The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) representative provided detailed statistics for the previous month, including one structure fire, one nuisance fire, one cooking fire, and 60 medical emergencies. There was also one motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian, and two hazardous materials incidents. HFD encouraged safe cooking practices during the holiday season to avoid leading causes of home fires. Attendees asked about the nature of recent hazmat responses, and the HFD representative clarified that such calls often involve gas or carbon monoxide alarms triggered in residences or parking structures. Emphasis was placed on responsible fireworks use during the upcoming holidays, urging families to follow local laws and make sensible decisions to reduce strain on emergency services.
City Monthly Reports: Honolulu Police Department
The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) reported monthly crime statistics: one aggravated assault, one auto theft, four burglaries, one sexual assault, three assaults, four thefts, and two car break-ins, with 614 service calls overall. Questions arose about illegal fireworks enforcement as the new year approaches. Officers reminded the board that stricter fireworks laws exist and asked residents to call anonymously if they witness violations. HPD clarified that drones are operational in select situations, though they are not currently approved for widespread fireworks enforcement due to potential damage from aerial fireworks. Residents also raised concerns about possible return of illegal game rooms. District 5 officers explained that the “Crime Reduction Unit,” spearheaded by the recognized officer, actively tracks and shuts down these establishments, sometimes utilizing undercover operations and multi-agency task forces.
Board of Water Supply Updates
A Board of Water Supply (BWS) representative reported that the city responds promptly to water main breaks, offering real-time updates and encouraging residents to check the BWS website for repair status. BWS highlighted new sewer rate structures determined by the Department of Environmental Services, confirming there is no direct authority over sewer fees at BWS. For residents seeking more efficient ways to water gardens or grow food, BWS offers rebates for rain barrels and weather-based irrigation controllers. The board learned that agricultural water rates apply only to commercial farms because of stricter regulatory requirements and backflow prevention rules. BWS also shared confirmation of ongoing and scheduled repairs near Kalihi Elementary School, including an expected repaving project to address a section of road used for reservoir access.
Residents and Community Concerns
Community members voiced frustrations over private trees encroaching onto sidewalks, affecting streetlights, damaging sewage lines, and making streets more dangerous for pedestrians. Board members suggested the city may not take direct action if the tree stands on private property. One resident brought forward issues at Kalihi Valley Recreation Center’s pool area, including vandalism of toilet paper being thrown in the pool overnight. Another concern centered on the gym’s locked or absent bathrooms, causing more potential mischief if left unattended. Some community members also noted graffiti on bus stops and potential ways to organize paint-outs or adopt-a-stop programs to keep the neighborhood clean.
City Official Reports
A mayoral representative shared updates on the city’s press release distribution changes and highlighted new segments of the Skyline rail service, including stations near the airport. The administration reminded residents that new sewer rates take effect in January 2026. The mayor’s office recognized staffing shortages at pools and encouraged more people to apply for lifeguard positions. City officials addressed repeated inquiries about illegal parking, acknowledging limited resources but noting that officers can cite or tow vehicles that present hazards. Council staff from District 6 indicated they have worked with the Department of Facility Maintenance and the community policing team to clear recent encampments and emphasized the importance of reporting similar concerns to preserve safety around public parks.
State and Federal Official Reports
Representatives from the state legislature provided updates on red light and speed cameras, confirming that citations—ranging from $97 to $317, depending on the infraction—are now being mailed to vehicle owners. They noted ongoing inquiries about the threshold for speeding tickets and explained that the Department of Transportation is finalizing those details. Concerns arose over how proceeds from fines are allocated and whether the judiciary benefits from these citations. Legislators also discussed local stream maintenance projects, noting progress on removing invasive vegetation near schools and clarifying department responsibilities. A representative touched on the importance of safer roads and crosswalk signals, stating they have requested more information on signage replacements around local schools.
Separately, another legislator outlined a “Kalihi Task Force” dedicated to public safety near public housing complexes, including efforts to curb rising reports of gang activities and shootings. That representative flagged the ongoing closure of recreation facilities within housing areas and suggested working with the city to reactivate gyms and programs to keep local youth engaged.
Board Business
Board members discussed logistics for the upcoming holiday parade and opted to participate alongside community groups. Some will ride on an offered trolley, while others plan to walk and distribute candy. The board also explored relocating future meetings. They cited a desire to resume in-person gatherings at Kalihi Valley District Park, provided staff or board members can manage after-hours keys and extended closing times. Alternatively, Kalihi Elementary and community churches were considered. Members unanimously agreed they prefer a more visible and central location, especially to spotlight areas needing upgrades and to foster direct engagement with the community.
Committee Reports
Several committees shared updates on neighborhood interests. The Beautification Committee noted potential adopt-a-bus-stop projects to remove graffiti and maintain clean surroundings. The Resolution Committee confirmed it is monitoring previously passed proposals—running from park improvements to school zone signage—and continues pressing city and state officials for results. Members also mentioned a successful cleanup day at Kalihi Valley District Park, where volunteers scrubbed walls, cleared debris, and discussed the possible painting of murals. A dedicated sustainability group continued routine cleanups of streambeds, road edges, and sidewalks. Lastly, a joint committee called attention to upcoming emergency response training opportunities, encouraging residents to learn preparedness skills crucial for disaster response and community resilience.
Announcements
Community members were invited to donate toys for the Toys for Tots campaign, with drop-offs accepted at the Neighborhood Commission Office. The board highlighted additional holiday events—such as Simbang Gabi celebrations, resource fairs, and a local talk-story gathering aimed at collecting resident input on crime prevention and youth activities. With no December meeting, members agreed to reconvene in January 2026 and emphasized a collective desire to maintain public facilities, protect community safety, and build momentum toward future neighborhood improvements.