No 14 Liliha ʻĀlewa Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting March 2026
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14 Liliha-Alewa Neighborhood Board Meeting – March 10, 2026
Parking Concerns on Nalakila Avenue
Community members raised ongoing frustrations about cars that block or park on the unimproved sidewalk along Nalakila Avenue between Kunawai and Kuakini. Residents noted they frequently see vehicles parked illegally, forcing pedestrians—including parents with strollers—to navigate into the street. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) representatives reported that while they have monitored the area, more timely calls from neighbors would help them respond and educate or cite drivers. Residents asked if photos could be texted to the police, but were encouraged to call 911 instead. HPD stressed they will continue checking on this location when resources allow.
Board of Water Supply Announcements
A Board of Water Supply (BWS) representative reported two main breaks in February—one near 720 Panuwi Street on February 9, and another near 2374 Maui Ola Place on February 27. BWS also highlighted March 22 as World Water Day, part of a United Nations effort to raise awareness for the billions of people without access to safe drinking water. The 2026 theme is “Where Water Flows, Equity Grows,” underscoring the disproportionate impact on women and girls, although some in attendance wondered about the implication for men. The BWS urged the community to monitor social media and the board’s website for more information on global water challenges.
Free School Meals Initiative
A representative from the Hawaii Public Health Institute introduced a campaign to expand free school meals for all students. Many children currently skip meals due to cost, affecting their focus and performance in class. The speaker asked for community support and invited residents to share stories or volunteer. She provided her name for follow-up and emphasized the importance of ensuring every child has access to proper nutrition in school.
Homeless Concerns Near Kuakini Hospital and Liliha Bakery
Residents reported seeing more homeless individuals discharged from Kuakini Hospital who end up on the public sidewalk, prompting safety worries for older neighbors walking dogs or running errands. A city representative noted they recently met with Kuakini Hospital to propose a pilot program where crisis outreach workers intervene before people are released. Another community member described how two parking stalls in front of Liliha Bakery cause traffic backups and asked the city to consider removing the stalls. The Department of Transportation Services (DTS) will look into the issue, but some participants worried about losing valuable parking near businesses. The discussion reflected a need to balance traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and local economic activity.
Kapalama Canal Overgrowth and Stream Maintenance
Several residents requested city intervention to clear overgrown vegetation in streams and canals, including areas behind specific Hillcrest Street properties. Overgrowth and debris have caused flooding on private property, with one family reporting repeated water damage. Administration officials recommended using the city’s 311 app to report overgrowth more quickly, noting it creates a service request record and facilitates quicker responses. This prompted wider community discussion of how to handle public infrastructure maintenance without waiting for monthly neighborhood board meetings.
Liliha Bakery Traffic and Parking Debate
Some residents voiced support for eliminating two on-street parking stalls by Liliha Bakery to relieve congestion, while others insisted on preserving street parking for customers and visitors dropping off mail near a nearby postal box. Board members encouraged city transportation authorities to gather data on peak-hour backups and consult with the public before any permanent changes. The discussion illustrated the tensions between maintaining convenient street parking and reducing bottlenecks in high-traffic corridors.
Updates on Kuakini Street Homeless Encampments
City and state officials explained they are coordinating with HPD and outreach teams to enforce trespassing rules and conduct regular sweeps along Kuakini Street, where homeless individuals often appear after leaving the hospital. They acknowledged the difficulty of moving people who have nowhere else to go and said they will attempt to connect them with social services rather than just citing and moving them repeatedly.
Stream Overgrowth Between Hillcrest Properties
A board member addressed overgrowth in a stream located between 2164 and 2176 Hillcrest Street. Although the Kapalama Canal on the lower end was cleared, the portion near these properties remained thick with vegetation, expanding to property lines. The city pledged to look into trimming or maintaining the area further. Residents requested a proactive schedule so that it would not reach dangerous levels during rainy seasons.
Downtown-Chinatown Chair’s Introduction
A Downtown-Chinatown Neighborhood Board chair introduced himself and noted he is running for State House District 28. He made a brief public statement of transparency regarding his candidacy and offered to collaborate with others on shared community concerns in adjacent neighborhoods.
Flooding Issues at Punui Avenue
Residents revisited flooding problems near 2753 Punui Avenue after heavy rains. They thanked local and state officials for taking action to clear vegetation that had blocked drainage, but asked for proactive measures before the next rainy season. The city and state acknowledged that advanced clearing is preferable to emergency responses. Residents appreciated the quick help they received but said they would return if further work is needed.
House District 28 Vacancy Introductions
Two attendees introduced themselves as finalists for the House District 28 seat vacated by the former representative. They made brief remarks about their backgrounds and willingness to serve. The governor will select an appointee from the finalists by April 14. This appointment process drew public interest about candidate qualifications and legislative continuity.
OMPO Meeting Update and Biki Expansion
A board member reported on the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizens Advisory Committee session. The 25-year plan received public feedback, and a four-year plan with more immediate upgrades was also discussed. The city has taken over the Biki bike-share system and plans to upgrade equipment, alongside adding new HandyVans for paratransit services. Concerns were raised about ongoing construction on Dillingham Boulevard, which creates difficulties for pedestrians with disabilities due to torn-up sidewalks.
Kalihi Ahupuaʻa Bike Ride
A representative from Kōkua Kalihi Valley shared plans for the ninth Kalihi Ahupuaʻa Ride: an 8.5-mile bike tour from deep in Kalihi Valley down to Mauliola Island. Participants make multiple stops to learn about local culture and history. Youth mentors from Kalihi Valley Instructional Bike Exchange (KVIPE) are building about 40 refurbished bikes for those who lack their own. The event takes place April 11, 2026, and offers an educational look at Kalihi sites and community-based stewardship.
Neighborhood Commission Report
Neighborhood Commission Chair Patrick Smith explained the commission’s role handling board complaints, revising district boundaries, and updating the neighborhood plan. He flagged that the commission seeks input on possible boundary modifications, encourages public testimony at hearings, and welcomes feedback on the plan’s details. He also mentioned efforts to visit all neighborhood boards and compile best practices to share with chairs and vice chairs. Board members raised concern over all-electronic voting for board elections, requesting that mail-in voting options be reinstated.
Mayor’s Representative Updates
The mayor’s office, represented virtually, highlighted upcoming citywide town hall meetings, including a May 14 event at Mission Memorial Auditorium. They announced a new “Grow” pilot program starting April 4 to recycle green waste for composting instead of sending it to H-Power or landfills. The HPD presence at Mai Mai playground has been credited with helping curb speeding issues along that corridor. Homeless encampments near School Street and Kuakini intersections remain under monitoring, and the city continues to coordinate with private property owners on trespassing enforcement. The Alewa Neighborhood Park retaining wall project is slated to begin construction in June 2026 with an estimated completion by March 2027.
Council Member Dos Santos Tam Updates
The council member’s representative confirmed ongoing conversation with McDonald’s on School Street about discouraging homeless encampments on their private property. Sakura tree plantings are scheduled at Napueo Mini Park on March 25 in coordination with Kochi Prefecture officials. The office is also studying potential parking rule modifications on Wiley Street and organizing an outreach meeting about a future community garden on Mutual Lane. The 311 app was praised for generating quicker city responses, and constituents were urged to submit photos and precise locations.
Senator Karl Rhoads’ Legislative Updates
A representative from Senator Rhoads’ office shared that his traffic fines bill (SB 2146) passed to the House, proposing a task force that would adopt a Finland-style fine and point system for traffic infractions. He also prepared a related resolution to broaden discussion on fair ways to issue traffic penalties. The office encouraged drivers, pedestrians, and community members to see the legislative website for updates on bills addressing road safety.
Senator Donna Kim’s Legislative Updates
Senator Kim detailed several Senate bills moving during the legislative session, including a nepotism bill covering the legislature and judiciary, a proposed two-year state travel moratorium to cut government costs, and a recommended change to the governor’s proposed tax-cut freeze, which would maintain certain tax reductions for low- and middle-income residents. She addressed the question of a community garden at Kuhio Park Terrace, noting that HUD regulations or ongoing redevelopment phases might complicate a garden’s approval, but she would follow up with the Hawaii Public Housing Authority to clarify options.
Representative Jenna Takenouchi’s Updates
Representative Takenouchi invited the public to a town hall meeting focusing on traffic safety and speeding, bringing together state and city transportation officials, HPD, and her legislative colleagues. She cautioned residents about new USPS postmarking procedures that could delay tax returns, recommending people mail forms at least five to seven days before deadlines. She also underscored Hawaii Energy’s refrigerator trade-up program for the 96817 area code—for as little as $250, residents can replace inefficient fridges, with pickup and disposal included.
Representative Hase’s Updates on KPT Garden
Representative John Hase described progress in coordinating with the Hawaii Public Housing Authority on a community garden at Kalihi Valley Homes, mentioning that any official gardens require recognition of an organized resident group that can partner with HPHA. He remains confident that once an appropriate group is formed, HPHA will facilitate the project. He also noted the legislature is at mid-session, with House and Senate bills crossing over for further review.
Governor’s Office Update
The governor’s representative reminded residents of an emergency proclamation ahead of an incoming Kona Low storm expected to deliver heavy rains and strong winds. They urged the public to secure property, sign up for local alerts, and prepare personal go-bags if evacuation becomes necessary. The newsletter highlighted digital safety initiatives to protect children online, expansions in early learning classrooms, and pilot programs for Kupuna housing. The office also offered to assist with information on the HPHA community garden process.
U.S. Representative Ed Case’s Update
A staffer from Congressman Case’s office noted an extension until March 15 for public comment on the FAA’s Hawaii airspace modernization project. The congressman is concerned about noise and safety ramifications of certain flight paths, including military and tour helicopter flyovers. The office encouraged constituents to review the project’s scope and submit comments through official channels. They also updated the board on ongoing legislative efforts in Washington to address local cost-of-living issues and invited high school students to participate in art and coding competitions sponsored by the congressman.
Approval of Minutes and Old Business Items
The board unanimously approved the January 12 meeting minutes. A resident inquired about sidewalk expansion on Judge Street, recalling that city agencies cited cost, multiple property condemnations, and historical rock walls as key hurdles. Although some remain hopeful the city can find a compromise for improved pedestrian routes, no final plan is in place. The topic was kept on the board’s radar, pending additional feedback from the city.
June 8 Candidate Forum
The board voted to host a candidate forum at its Monday, June 8, 2026 meeting instead of July, ensuring the event takes place before primary ballots are mailed. Members agreed on the importance of providing constituents a chance to meet and question local candidates. The board will invite interested contenders to outline platforms and answer community-related concerns.
Proposed Median on Olomea Street (Failed Resolution)
A board member introduced a resolution urging the state Department of Transportation to construct a median U-turn for eastbound traffic on Olomea Street near the Palama Street intersection. Proponents argued it would ease congestion, especially for drivers heading to on-ramps. Opponents feared unintended consequences, such as spillover backups in short turning lanes, and questioned cost-effectiveness. The resolution ultimately failed on a vote of three ayes to eight nays. However, Senator Kim offered to request a DOT review and written response on potential traffic solutions in that area.
Dog-Friendly Access to Puunui Community Park
The chair announced Puunui Community Park now allows dogs on leashes, provided owners clean up thoroughly after their pets. Attendees pointed out that owners must also bring water to rinse areas where dogs relieve themselves, given expanded city guidelines for dog-friendly public spaces. Residents expressed hope that the community will observe courtesy and hygiene to maintain the park’s welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center Activities
A board member shared news that spring registrations for classes will open on March 16 at Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center. Volunteers from First Hawaiian Bank recently repainted much of the facility, and a roofing company improved gutter systems. The center continues to offer around 85 classes, including cultural, health, and wellness activities—ranging from loʻi (taro patch) sessions to technology tutorials and presentations on dementia resources. Seniors over age 60 can join, and organizers encourage them to take advantage of the many opportunities for social engagement and personal development.
Each of these discussions underscored the Liliha-Alewa community’s ongoing efforts to balance safety, maintenance needs, resident welfare, and planning for future growth. The board adjourned with a reminder that its next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026, at the same location and time.