No 02 Kuli'ou'ou-Kalani Iki Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting April 2026
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2 Kuliouou-Kalani Iki Neighborhood Board Meeting – April 6, 2026
Opening and Community Updates
Chair Burkert opened the meeting by introducing the temporary neighborhood assistant, Jeffrey Jones, and recognizing board members and community participants joining in person and online. She thanked everyone who helped respond to the severe flooding events over the past two weeks, noting that while the North Shore region was heavily impacted, efforts in Kuliouou-Kalani Iki were also appreciated. The meeting began with attention to emergency responder reports and a reminder that the board could not conduct official voting unless quorum was established. Attendees were asked to remain aware of online etiquette and microphone muting to reduce noise or interference.
Honolulu Police Department Report
A Honolulu Police Department (HPD) lieutenant presented monthly statistics comparing motor vehicle thefts, burglaries, thefts, unauthorized entry into vehicles, and total calls for service to the previous month. The lieutenant emphasized the importance of safety during National Highway Transportation Safety Administration Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Attendees heard reminders to avoid cell phone use while driving, designate a passenger to handle phone communications when possible, and encourage family members to model safe driving habits. These statistics and tips were delivered with a focus on contributing positively to roadway and community safety.
Honolulu Fire Department Report
The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) representatives described local fire responses and medical incidents from the previous month, highlighting medical calls, crashes, and a few fires. They reiterated the importance of emergency preparedness and evacuation planning, urging residents to prepare a “go bag” and know at least two escape routes from the home. The firefighters referenced recent floods, acknowledging that heavy rain affected many parts of Oahu, including the Kuliouou-Kalani Iki area, and urging continued readiness. Their report covered ways to stay informed during disasters, such as signing up for official alerts and knowing where local shelters might be set up during emergencies.
Quorum Establishment and Rules of Speaking
The board temporarily lacked quorum but soon reached the number of members required for official business once another member joined online. To maintain efficiency and fairness, new protocols were discussed to ensure speakers receive equal opportunities to address the board. The chair reminded attendees that reports and presentations would be allotted fixed times, generally two or three minutes for short updates and five minutes for scheduled presentations, unless otherwise adjusted by the board. Concerns arose regarding consistent timing enforcement, prompting a plan for clearer time indicators in the future.
Board of Water Supply Report
A representative from the Board of Water Supply (BWS) discussed a single main break that occurred the previous month. The BWS also promoted Detect a Leak Week, scheduled for April 12 through 18, urging residents to fix common household leaks. Information about detecting and repairing running toilets and faulty flappers was provided, including details about where to obtain free dye tablets for testing. The BWS noted that they continue to monitor water reliability in all neighborhoods and encouraged residents to visit their website for announcements and leak detection tips.
Vacancies and Meeting Minutes
The board emphasized sub-district vacancies, encouraging residents to step forward to serve and help achieve consistent quorum. Members underscored the importance of area representation, reading out which sub-districts remained unfilled. The March 4 meeting minutes were approved without correction, and appreciation was expressed to the board secretary for her meticulous note-taking.
Pia Valley Ungulate Fence Discussion
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to potential fencing projects in Pia Valley aimed at containing and eradicating feral pigs. A hunting community representative detailed concerns about losing public hunting land, requesting more data on potential pig impact, population surveys, and cost analysis for constructing and maintaining fences. The Koʻolau Mountains Watershed Partnership manager explained the conservation goals tied to fencing pig populations out, stressing the damage pigs inflict on forests and native species. Both sides acknowledged the importance of collaboration to address hunter access, mitigation of damage to native forests, maintenance of hunting opportunities, and public safety in forest reserves. They planned to reconvene at a future board meeting after further discussions with state agencies and other stakeholders to iron out mutually beneficial solutions.
Public Input on Neighborhood Concerns
A resident who lives near Lāwaʻi Lāwaʻi Street recounted the ongoing problem of a neighbor who has allegedly set fires, damaged property, and exhibited unsafe behavior. While demolition removed one dangerously damaged structure, debris remained, and risks to neighboring properties continued. Emerging reports suggested a similar concern with other individuals in different parts of the valley. The resident and board members discussed obtaining mental health and social service interventions, noting that local officials have struggled to place individuals into involuntary treatment. It was announced that city representatives would attempt to invite the director of key social and health services to a future board meeting to address mental illness and public safety.
Congressional and Mayoral Reports
Congressman Ed Case’s office, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Kekoa Kaluhiwa, described ongoing efforts to secure federal aid after the Kona Low Storm, which caused extensive damage around Oahu. He encouraged residents to track and report all damage so that FEMA could accurately evaluate the need for potential disaster funding. He also underscored the congressman’s role on the Appropriations Committee and the importance of federal budgeting for local programs, including emergency response and infrastructure.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s representative, Dita Holifield, detailed the city’s efforts to recover from the Kona Low Storm, including debris removal, emergency shelter operations, and inter-agency coordination. She invited residents to attend the mayor’s upcoming town halls to share concerns directly. She noted the continuation of several parks restoration projects, the distribution of emergency resources, and the city’s coordinating role in addressing homelessness, assisting fire victims, and investigating damaged infrastructure. She mentioned entertainment and cultural events returning to the Blaisdell Center, encouraging community members to take advantage of recreational offerings.
State Legislature and City Council Updates
City Council Chair Tommy Waters’ office, represented by staff member Kevin Imanaka, reported continued follow-up on flood recovery, demolition of unsafe structures, and monitoring the legal cases of individuals who pose fire or public safety risks. He emphasized a budget request for safety improvements at various locations, as well as the council’s focus on evaluating the city’s emergency response chain of command during floods.
Representatives from the offices of Senator Stanley Chang and Representative Mark Hashem also addressed neighborhood issues. Senator Chang’s staff mentioned the end of a contentious housing bill in the legislature and renewed community relief efforts for flood victims. Representative Hashem’s team confirmed various traffic signal modernization and road resurfacing projects, including the possibility of major roadwork in areas feeding into Kuliouou-Kalani Iki. Both offices urged constituents to communicate concerns about transportation, stream maintenance, and mental health resources.
Additional Announcements and Closing
A spokesperson from the Department of Environmental Services delivered an update on Honolulu’s Disposable Foodware Ordinance and plastic bag ban, explaining how city officials inspect and educate businesses about noncompliance. Attendees learned of progressive steps to reduce single-use plastics and encourage compostable or paper-based alternatives. The board noted upcoming events, including a book sale at the ‘Āina Haina Library, and reminded attendees that the board’s next meeting would take place on May 6. The meeting concluded with gratitude for all involved in supporting the neighborhood during recent hardships and a renewed commitment to finding lasting solutions to flooding, mental health, and environmental challenges.