No 06 Pālolo Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting November 2025
Waikīkī Neighborhood Board Meeting
Dog Park Proposals and Community Input
In this portion of the meeting, representatives from the Department of Parks and Recreation explained that the City intends to expand on-leash privileges for dogs in certain parks by January 2026. They are seeking input from neighborhood boards and the public on possible sites, with final recommendations due by November 21, 2025. Attendees discussed the suitability of “Kalola District Park” (as it was called in the transcript) and Waimau Slide Area, but concerns were raised about how introducing a dog park could affect sports leagues such as flag football, softball, baseball, and soccer. One resident requested clearer guidelines about proposed space allocations, arguing that current teams and the University of Hawaiʻi and Chaminade students already compete for limited park space. An alternative suggestion involved repurposing an underutilized tennis court into an enclosed dog park area for safety reasons, noting that improper dog handling on the grass could conflict with other recreational uses.
Potential Sports Field Conflicts and Alternative Solutions
Several community members voiced apprehensions about overcrowding if more park space is allocated to dog owners. One speaker questioned whether the tennis court near the gym, which seems rarely used, could be enclosed for dog activities instead of occupying open fields. Residents are concerned that an off-leash dog area would interfere with local youths and multiple sports teams who use the grounds throughout the week. In response, board members promised to gather more data on existing field usage, explore alternative locations for an enclosed dog park, and compile community feedback for the City’s final decision.
Empty Homes Tax Presentation
A volunteer advocate, speaking on behalf of a coalition known as Housing Now, presented an initiative to levy an “Empty Homes Tax.” The speaker called attention to Oʻahu’s housing crisis and stated that one in four homes sold each year is purchased by outsiders who do not rent to residents, effectively reducing stock for local families. Seven neighborhood boards have already supported the measure, and the advocate asked this board to consider adopting a similar resolution. Although the bill passed two readings at the Honolulu City Council, passage on the third reading is uncertain, with four councilmembers in favor and at least five undecided or opposed. The advocate emphasized that the tax would primarily target investors with multiple vacant properties and outlined at least 15 proposed exemptions that would protect local owner-occupants.
Invasive Species Updates: Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle and Koki Frogs
Representatives from the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Response Team and the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture’s Biosecurity Office provided updates on two significant invasive species. The coconut rhinoceros beetle, known to infest palm trees—especially coconut and fan palms—has already spread across much of Oʻahu. While the beetle is no longer slated for full eradication due to its wide range, officials urged residents to monitor, freeze, or safely destroy any beetles or larvae they find, especially in green-waste material like potting soil or compost. The discussion then shifted to koki frogs, which produce extremely loud nighttime calls and threaten native insects, and potentially even small birds. Agencies are working to contain established frog populations by spraying citric acid in overgrown areas and capturing outlier frogs along population edges. Both agencies stressed the importance of community cooperation in reporting sightings, checking for breeding zones, and supporting increased funding for invasive-species response efforts.
Elected Officials’ Reports and Neighborhood Concerns
Various elected officials and their representatives—including the City Councilmember, State Representative, and the Mayor’s liaison—spoke about ongoing community projects and legislative updates. They noted that residents on SNAP (food stamp) benefits temporarily receive state-funded relief, which may continue pending future federal budget decisions. Meanwhile, the City has begun design work on outdoor lighting for local district parks, but further input and budget requests for facility improvements (e.g., bleachers, seating, courts) will be considered in early 2026. Participants were reminded that community members can help shape the budget cycle in January and February by identifying priority areas for park repairs and upgrades.
Upcoming Events and Future Action
The meeting concluded with plans for the next gathering to include a holiday potluck and the possibility of a community sing-along. Board members encouraged attendees to spread awareness about upcoming deadlines for testimony on dog park proposals, to voice their opinions on the Empty Homes Tax, and to remain engaged in legislative processes surrounding invasive species control. Officials thanked the public for attending and reiterated their commitment to balancing recreational use, protecting residents’ quality of life, and preserving a healthy environment for everyone in the Waikīkī neighborhood.