No 28 Ko`olauloa Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting February 2026
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28 Koolauloa Neighborhood Board Meeting – February 13, 2026
City and State Monthly Reports
Neighborhood Board members opened the meeting by confirming quorum and welcoming representatives from local agencies who presented monthly statistics and safety advisories. The Honolulu Fire Department, represented by Captain Ryan Oki, reported that there was one structure fire, six activated alarms, zero brush or cooking fires, and 44 medical emergencies within three stations. The Department urged everyone to call 911 for emergencies rather than driving to a station, noting that fire companies may be out on a call or conducting inspections. They also reminded residents that 911 can receive text messages in areas of poor reception. The Honolulu Police Department provided January statistics showing that motor vehicle thefts dropped from seven to zero, burglaries declined from three to one, thefts rose from seven to eight, vehicle break-ins decreased from four to one, and robberies increased from zero to two. One robbery incident took place at a 7-Eleven in Haula. The meeting acknowledged that District 4 areas generally have low crime rates.
Government Representatives’ New Format
Board members explained a new format for government reports where all representatives present their updates in a row, with questions held until every presenter has spoken. This approach, tested in recent months, aims to streamline issues that involve multiple agencies. Government representatives were asked to remain present or online long enough to respond to queries that might involve more than one department or elected office. Members of the public were instructed to specify the representative to whom they were directing each question to keep discussions clear.
Mayor’s Office Updates
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s representative, Kat, shared highlights from the February 2026 newsletter, including the Honolulu Fire Department’s 165th anniversary, the announcement of a new Ocean Safety deputy chief, a new off-leash dog park in Waikiki, and a UV system protecting Kailua waters. Also noted was the Kahuku District Park’s proposed renovation, and the city’s updated Honolulu 311 system (HNL 3-1-1) that makes it easier for residents to report issues such as broken fixtures or maintenance needs. Kat reported that no zoning variances for windmills or wind energy are currently under review at the Department of Planning and Permitting. She relayed that any future windmill or wind energy requests would be processed according to existing code provisions.
City Councilmember and Legislative Updates
A staff member for Councilmember Matt Weyer, Chelsea, reported that Bill 4 (2026) was co-introduced to strengthen incentives for constructing affordable rental housing. The bill has passed its first reading and awaits further hearings. Chelsea also outlined Bill 54 (2025), which increases certain bus fares, including monthly, annual, youth, visitor, and handy-van costs, as well as a surcharge for cash payments. It passed the Council by a 6-3 vote, with Councilmember Weyer voting no, citing concerns about financial burdens on families who rely on public transportation.
Representatives for Congresswoman Jill Tokuda’s office were absent due to illness, though the Board anticipates a future follow-up report. State Senator Brenton Awa spoke about recent legislative activities, noting efforts to address and fund invasive species management like the coconut rhinoceros beetle and other pests through key bills, as well as the ongoing Kahuku Food Tree Project, which has surpassed two years in operation. The senator described the community-driven cultivation of breadfruit and mountain apple trees in Kahuku and Haleiwa, and efforts to expand planting to a Haula park. He also discussed the extension of a Genki Ball pilot project to continue cleaning local waters. Representative Sean Quinlan’s staff, Lucy, mentioned a proposed ban on Teflon and the introduction of House Bill 1881, which would prohibit passenger ropeways in mountain lands. She also explained efforts to bring culturally based health programs, in partnership with Tangata Moana Hui Foundation, to provide more resources in the region. Her office followed up with Catholic Charities regarding delays in processing housing and utility assistance applications, confirming the agency’s increased volume.
Government Q&A and Community Concerns
Residents asked about road repairs at Kualoa, following a Board of Water Supply project that left uneven pavement. Additional questions focused on repeated concerns about a sinking bridge in the same area. Officials were asked to improve state-city coordination for highway maintenance and emergency repairs. Some residents in Punaluʻu raised issues about an apparently unauthorized short-term rental or “health retreat” with up to 15 guests cycling through five-bedroom facilities. The Mayor’s Office agreed to refer the matter to DPP for investigation. Another request sought data on the community’s homeless count and contacts for those performing outreach, with mention of IHS being the new service provider. Residents also inquired about proposed state park improvements in Mālaekahana, specifically whether camper vans would be allowed on state land. A representative of the Department of Land and Natural Resources had previously discussed improvements but not yet returned with a final plan.
Yabusami Hawaii 2026 Presentation
Representatives of the Honolulu Foundation presented plans for a Yabusami (traditional mounted archery) event at Kualoa Ranch on June 14, 2026. This centuries-old Japanese cultural demonstration, overseen by the 31st and 32nd generation masters of the Ogasawara family, will be limited to about 500 spectators. The event will feature pre-event activities, refreshments, and possible youth volunteer roles, with Kualoa Ranch placing visual barriers along the road to discourage traffic slowdowns.
Special Management Area Permit in Kahuku
Jim Hayes from Planning Solutions, representing the Paʻu Lin family, described an application for a new single-family dwelling at 57-321 Pahi Pahi Alua Street. The project involves relocating the house farther mauka, elevated above the flood zone, and demolishing the current shoreline-adjacent home. The plan is designed to comply with zoning, setbacks, and flood regulations. Hayes noted that neighbors will receive notification ahead of future Department of Planning and Permitting and City Council hearings.
Board Planning Session and Priorities
Board members reported on a special meeting where they discussed overarching priorities identified by community feedback. These include infrastructure (encompassing roads, wastewater, power, flooding, and emergency preparedness), government transparency, housing, and job creation. Members agreed to develop sub-priorities and concrete projects in each area, with particular mention of the sale of Laie Water Company, the management of Mālaekahana State Park, the local enforcement of unilateral agreements, a possible Haula farmers’ market, and business development efforts. The Board intends to finalize a resolution listing these priorities, reorganize its subcommittees accordingly, and encourage community members to join committees relevant to their expertise.
Subcommittee and Community Updates
The Parks and Recreation Subcommittee provided a status update on Mālaekahana State Park, explaining that five applicants responded to a request for proposals to manage certain portions, resulting in three finalists, though no final selection has been made by DLNR. The Resilience and Transportation Subcommittees reported on flooding and highway maintenance issues, as well as the Board’s interest in ensuring a quick response to emergency closures. The Food Security Committee discussed the forthcoming KAHUKU Sugar Mill market renovation, which will create small spaces for local entrepreneurs and farmers. Board members noted some community concerns regarding whether the market would attract more tourists and traffic. Others emphasized plans for local produce, small business growth, and space for cultural events. The Board also shared announcements about the upcoming Haula ‘Ālāia event in late March, the Hauula-based walking path initiative, and a training program (Trek) that supports residential energy contractors.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with discussions of e-bike safety, continued coordination between city-state agencies, and the complexities around parked cars at the KORASON transitional housing in Haula, where vehicles must have up-to-date registration. The Board approved the previous month’s minutes and adjourned, noting future dates for subcommittee meetings and ongoing engagement with government representatives. The next meeting is anticipated to revisit final resolutions on key priorities and updates to local developments and public services.