No 27 North Shore Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting January 2026
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27 North Shore Neighborhood Board Meeting – January 28, 2026
Call to Order and Administrative Matters
Chairperson Kahi Nui opened the meeting by confirming no conflicts of interest among Board members and noting a vacant seat in Kawailoa. No volunteers stepped forward to fill the vacancy, so it will remain on the agenda. The Chair briefly reminded everyone of the importance of transparency and their ongoing efforts to keep the community well informed. With no conflicts declared, the agenda was approved, and the meeting proceeded with public safety reports.
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) Report
A representative from the Wailua Fire Station presented statistics for December in the Board’s area, listing 25 fires (including one structure fire and four nuisance fires), five activated alarms without fire, 63 medical calls, one motor vehicle collision with a pedestrian, three motor vehicle crashes, and one ocean rescue. The HFD reminded residents to practice electrical safety, suggesting that major appliances be plugged directly into wall outlets and encouraging the use of licensed electricians to add new receptacles rather than relying on extension cords. The speaker assured the community that HFD possesses “Knox box” keys for emergencies but does not accept private keys to open gates on private roads unless there is an emergency call.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) Report
HPD detailed its 30-day statistics for the district covering Mililani, Wahiawa, and the North Shore. These included three assaults, zero burglaries, 56 motor vehicle collisions (of which five required towing), no robberies, and three vehicle break-ins. There were 1,051 calls for service, 209 parking citations, 879 other traffic infractions, and 132 traffic-related crimes, with 70 arrests and 109 charges. HPD emphasized pedestrian safety, noting three recent pedestrian fatalities on O‘ahu. They cautioned pedestrians to ensure drivers see them before crossing and recommended helmets for riders under 15 operating mopeds or e-bikes. In response to concerns about reckless riders, HPD stated that monitoring and parent education play large roles but promised follow-up on reports of stunt-driving near popular sunset areas. Citizens also inquired about increased drone incidents and e-bike use on the bike path, and HPD explained complaints involving drones are generally reported to the FAA while they will forward concerns on bike path enforcement to appropriate units.
Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services
The North Shore lifeguard captain presented December 2025 data showing 63 rescues across the district’s beaches, especially at ‘Ehukai and Chun’s, where visitors and inexperienced surfers often require help. Attendance for the month was over 328,000 beachgoers. The captain outlined plans for a new tower at Shark’s Cove between March and June, which would offer a view of the tide pools, coral areas, and leap-off spots that pose risks to novices. The Board and community welcomed the enhancements, as ocean safety remains a priority given the North Shore’s world-famous surf sites.
Board of Water Supply Update
A Board of Water Supply representative announced the doubling of rebates for low-flow toilets (now up to $200) and for water-efficient clothes washers ($150) to encourage water conservation. The representative confirmed that there were no main breaks in the area during the previous month. With water resource management a pressing concern, the Board was pleased to learn that eligible households can receive financial assistance while upgrading appliances to help with water efficiency.
Residents’ Concerns and Announcements
Several residents raised issues affecting everyday life and public safety. Surf schools operating under outdated or unclear regulations requested fair enforcement, especially regarding Bill 34-38, which restricts certain surf lessons on local beaches. Another resident highlighted drones invading personal privacy, prompting HPD to reiterate that such reports go to the FAA. Others discussed potential improvements to mental health services for homeless individuals, citing Act 19 allowing emergency involuntary admissions. Malama Pupukea Waimea gave updates on a recent carrying capacity study and marine restoration efforts at Pupukea, asking for volunteer support. Wailua High and Intermediate School announced various student activities, including an art show, military outreach events, and election preparations. Lastly, the Hawaii Youth Transportation Council shared its universal youth transit legislation (SB 2699 and HB 1879) and encouraged community members to testify in favor of Kīkī Ride Free initiatives.
Formation of a Transportation Committee
The Board voted to form a Transportation Committee, chaired by Carol Philips, with several board members and youth council representation in response to ongoing concerns about traffic safety, pedestrian paths, and parking issues. The new committee aims to coordinate more effectively with the city’s Department of Transportation Services and the state Department of Transportation. The Board also added a new member to the Parks Committee, reinforcing its commitment to thorough community oversight on key infrastructure projects.
Ola Aina Agricultural Cluster Project
Representatives of Ola Aina Farms, a collective of five families, described their ag-cluster initiative on 11½ acres near Kūkea Circle. By clustering the farm dwellings at the rear of the property and dedicating front acreage to agricultural production, they aim to grow lavender, bamboo, citrus, and other crops while limiting residential sprawl. They reported removing debris, installing fencing, and collaborating with the Department of Planning and Permitting to comply with cluster regulations. Their goal is to open a small roadside farm stand, with adequate on-site parking and possible agritourism in accordance with local rules. Board members emphasized the importance of maintaining genuine agriculture on farmland rather than allowing the land to be used mainly for housing. Ola Aina Farms pledged to return for future updates and to adapt their crop choices as soil and market conditions evolve.
Hawaii Life Flight Services
Representatives from Hawaii Life Flight outlined their new helicopter base at Honolulu Airport, now serving O‘ahu’s outer regions. Previously focused on interisland fixed-wing transports from Kaua‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island, they are extending medical helicopter coverage to ensure faster emergency access to critical-care centers in Honolulu. This service, they explained, could significantly reduce travel time for trauma, stroke, or cardiac patients, but they are still working with city agencies to set up proper landing zones at local hospitals and potential 911 dispatch protocols. Concerns arose regarding costs and coverage, but the presenters highlighted a “membership” network that caps out-of-pocket expenses for patients under some plans. The Board voted to send a letter of support to expedite integration with local 911 systems.
City Administration and Mayor’s Representative
Dr. Diana Fox, newly appointed Director of the Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency, provided updates on upcoming changes to FEMA flood insurance rate maps, urging homeowners to track their risk status and file disputes before the June 10 implementation. She also mentioned the city’s adoption of improved HNL 311 technology for reporting issues like vandalism, sidewalk hazards, and other urgent community needs. Several residents asked about cleaning streams and drainage ditches ahead of spring rains, and Dr. Fox promised to coordinate with relevant city departments. Additional concerns, such as limited signage on the bike path to block motorized vehicles, were noted for follow-up with the Department of Facility Maintenance and HPD. The Board expressed appreciation for better, faster communication tools that strengthen city response to local safety matters.
City Council Update
Kelly Ana‘io from Councilmember Matt Weyer’s office reported on new efforts to complete restriping in Hale‘iwa Town and step up parking enforcement on Wailua Beach Road where residents have faced driveways being blocked. She is monitoring complaints about late-night noise from local businesses whose liquor license conditions or zoning designations may allow high decibel limits, but she suggests continued community vigilance and direct reports to the Liquor Commission. She also reaffirmed that city administration is moving forward on a proposed first responders hub in the area, though official timelines remain unclear. Finally, she has been collaborating with HPD, the military, and local organizations to coordinate a beach cleanup and address roadside drainage concerns.
State Legislative Reports
Senator Brenton Awa’s office conveyed efforts to curb outside investment in large Hawai‘i properties and to incentivize local homeownership. The office planned a final “Genki ball” drop in partnership with area schools to clean waterways, emphasizing conservation measures and community volunteerism. Representative Sean Quinlan’s intern informed the Board that a statewide ban on gondolas is being introduced in the House, reflecting widespread support against projects that commodify cultural and natural sites. Quinlan’s team has also been examining the spread of invasive species, as in the case of coconut rhinoceros beetles in North Shore regions, and is backing a $24 million request for an invasive species research facility in Whitmore Village.
Representative Amy Perruso highlighted that current budgeting challenges require revenue generation discussions, including potential legislation addressing property tax surcharges on multi-million-dollar investments for public education. She mentioned House Bill 1569, targeting microplastics from household laundry, and House Bill 1571, requiring neighborhood board statements on certain condominium property regimes. She also underscored her support for farmland preservation bills as a means to safeguard agricultural acreage from overdevelopment.
Closing and Approval of Minutes
Before adjournment, the Board unanimously approved minutes from the November 2025 meeting. The Chair thanked everyone for their engagement, noting the wide range of concerns, from public safety to farmland protection and youth programs. Participants were reminded to keep track of upcoming legislative hearings, neighborhood board updates, and ongoing committee initiatives. The meeting adjourned with commitments to return next month for further community discussions and progress reports.