No 08 McCully Mōʻiliʻili Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting January 2026
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8 McCully-Moiliili Neighborhood Board Meeting – January 27, 2026
Opening and Roll Call
Chair Lee convened the meeting in person and online, reminding attendees that remote participants must keep cameras on to count toward quorum. The Board confirmed nine members present, establishing quorum. The chair announced a packed agenda covering public safety updates, infrastructure improvements, state projects, and community concerns.
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) Update
A representative from the Mokoli Fire Station reported December 2025 incident statistics: one structure fire, one brush fire, one nuisance fire, 17 activated alarms, 104 medical emergencies, four pedestrian-related collisions, nine motor vehicle crashes, and three hazardous materials incidents. HFD shared home electrical safety tips, emphasizing the importance of limiting extension-cord use and checking for overloaded outlets. Members asked about fireworks trends, noting fewer reported incidents compared to previous years.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) Reports
District 1 and District 7 officers presented monthly crime statistics. District 1 saw six motor vehicle thefts, one burglary, six thefts, two unauthorized motor vehicle entries, and 459 calls for service. District 7 reported nine motor vehicle thefts, seven burglaries, 22 thefts, and 5,968 total calls. Both districts highlighted traffic enforcement efforts, reminding drivers and pedestrians to use caution. Officers noted an overall increase in calls for service amid ongoing concerns over pedestrian safety, collisions, and speeding.
Board of Water Supply
A Board of Water Supply spokesperson announced no main breaks in December 2025. He promoted a newly increased rebate program for ENERGY STAR appliances and WaterSense toilets, encouraging condo residents to apply individually and reminding the community that rebates may benefit both homeowners and renters. A community member raised concerns about overwatering at a local business, prompting the Board of Water Supply to request photos to address the issue.
Governor’s Representative
Gary Yamashiroya, representing the governor’s administration, outlined the state’s Red Light and Speed Camera enforcement process, including how citations are issued and the associated fines. The cameras track vehicles running red lights or speeding, and approved penalties range from $92 to several hundred dollars, depending on the violation. The Department of Transportation is also piloting Noise Cameras in certain areas. The governor’s representative announced an online Red Hill survey via redhillsurvey.com and reminded residents of the April 20, 2026 state tax deadline.
Legislative Highlights
Senator Fukunaga’s office discussed illegal fireworks enforcement (reporting a 20% decrease) and efforts to address condominium association concerns. Senator Moriwaki detailed her work with the Kupuna Caucus on caregiver tax credits, rent supplements for seniors at risk of homelessness, hearing loss planning, and noise control measures. Representative Garrett emphasized a need for more student housing at UH, a statewide healthcare workforce initiative, and stricter penalties for assaults on sports officials. Representative Olds introduced “Safe Entrances,” “Safe Bus Stops,” and “Clean Fresh Waterways” bills, each aimed at balancing homeless needs with public safety by preventing encampments around doorways, bus stops, and stream areas. Representative Tam’s office highlighted proposals on short-term rental enforcement, a dementia-friendly business program, and ongoing condo-related legislation.
Complete Streets: Date Street and McCully Walkways
Department of Transportation Services (DTS) planners described a Phase 1 Walkways Project that would fill sidewalk gaps in the McCully-Moiliili neighborhood and along Date Street, with an eye to safety and accessibility for pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users. They cited crash statistics (239 collisions in the McCully area, 140 on Date Street between 2015 and 2022) and proposed concrete sidewalks, a widened shared-use path, new crosswalks, and speed-limit reductions from 35 to 25 miles per hour. A community meeting is planned at Kaimuki High School for additional feedback.
Dismas Charities Residential Reentry Center
Representatives from Dismas Charities explained their proposal to use an existing five-story building at 1857 South King Street for a federal reentry center. The Center would host up to 75 local residents returning from federal incarceration on the continent, requiring them to be employed and to check in and out under close supervision. Dismas Charities, already operating a day reporting center, aims to help individuals secure stable housing and reconnect with family. Community members asked about recidivism rates, on-site security, and cultural integration, with Dismas Charities emphasizing evidence-based support and comprehensive services.
UH Redevelopment Feasibility Study
A representative for the University of Hawaii shared updates on a 15-acre parcel at 2321 Metcalf Street, currently housing the College of Education and University Lab School. The College of Education will relocate by spring 2028. A survey collected over 1,000 responses, identifying strong interest in campus-related housing, classroom and research space, and outdoor recreation over commercial offerings. Public input and cost analyses are ongoing, with plans to release a draft by the end of the year.
Opposition to Bill 54 (Bus Fare Increases)
A resolution urging City Council to oppose Bill 54 was introduced, citing disproportionate burdens on frequent riders. Monthly and annual adult pass prices would each rise by about 12%, while the single cash fare would increase to $3.25. The resolution passing with nine ayes called for resisting new fare hikes that would net just a modest increase in revenue while creating potential hardships for daily riders.
Mayor’s Representative Report
Deputy Director of Environmental Services, Dan Brick, summarized city initiatives. He noted the upcoming launch of the improved HNL 311 system, newly installed or repainted stop signs where speeding issues persist, the future repaving of parts of Beretania Street, and ongoing planning for the Ala Wai Bridge project. The city clarified it continues evaluating improvements at key intersections and park facilities, reminding residents to use HNL 311 or departmental hotlines to report maintenance or enforcement needs more quickly than the monthly Board meetings allow.