No 21 Pearl City Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting March 2026
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21 Pearl City Neighborhood Board Meeting – March 25, 2026
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) Updates
Captain Lon Tanigawa of the Pearl City Fire Station reported that in February there were no structure or brush fires, three nuisance fires, and eleven activated alarms. HFD also responded to 132 medical alerts, six motor vehicle collisions, and saw no pedestrian versus auto incidents, mountain rescues, ocean rescues, or hazardous material calls. The captain emphasized the importance of smoke alarms as part of a home escape plan, stressing that alarms save lives by providing occupants early warning to exit. He recommended installing smoke alarms in and outside all bedrooms and on every level of the home, along with monthly testing and replacement once alarms reach ten years of service or no longer respond. In response to questions about flooding during the recent storm, the captain indicated there was no significant flooding in Pearl City during that period. He also confirmed fire hydrants in the area remained operational despite power outages, addressing concerns about the hydrants’ ability to provide sufficient water pressure for firefighting if needed. One board member mentioned a small rockslide along Waimano Road, and it was noted the matter would be referred to the city for investigation.
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) Updates
HPD Lieutenant Iwasaki provided comparative data for reported incidents in January and February 2026. Motor vehicle thefts decreased from seven to five, burglaries went from two to zero, thefts dropped from thirty to twenty, and car break-ins remained at four. Total calls for service were 1,456 in January and 1,401 in February, with District 3 receiving over 4,700 calls overall in February. The lieutenant encouraged residents to remain alert and mindful of late-night gatherings in secluded parking lots due to a rise in robberies. He also commented on the severe weather and noted that flooding in Pearl City Industrial and Waipahu Depot Road was mitigated by clearing blocked drains. The police also dealt with falling debris, including concrete and rocks, that caused accidents and injuries near the Dixie Grill underpass. Neighborhood board members expressed gratitude for HPD and HFD’s efficiency during the storms, including rapid response to a fallen tree on Kaumanu Street.
Community Recognition for Science Olympiad Achievements
The meeting included a special presentation honoring Pearl City’s bright students who excelled in the Science Olympiad. The board recognized the Pearl City High School team for placing second in the State Division C Science Olympiad Championship and Highlands Intermediate School for placing first in State Division B. Coaches, parents, and principals expressed pride and gratitude for the dedication these teams showed, highlighting countless hours of preparation and study. Legislators from Pearl City offered further commendations and lauded the students for demonstrating academic leadership, teamwork, and strong community values. Notably, the Highlands Intermediate group will travel to Los Angeles for national competition, striving for continued excellence on behalf of Pearl City.
Legislative and City Agency Reports
Various local and state officials shared their reports. The Mayor’s Representative, Director Gene Albano from the Department of Facility Maintenance, underscored the Honolulu 311 system as a key tool for residents to report concerns such as illegal dumping and road or infrastructure problems. He emphasized the city’s ongoing efforts to address damage and debris caused by the storms, including staging areas for large amounts of rubbish that accumulated along the North Shore. The district office for Pearl City Parks indicated they are awaiting a specialized contractor to remove debris in certain areas and will restore fields or park areas once all storm waste is properly disposed of. Meanwhile, Council Member Val Okimoto’s office noted upcoming deliberations over the city’s $5.09 billion proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 and emphasized future capital improvement projects for Pearl City.
Reports from Hawai‘i State Senators
Senator Brandon Elefante outlined the Senate’s efforts to refine and pass bills on topics such as tax relief measures, driver’s license renewals, and ongoing work to maintain local streams after heavy rains. He mentioned that proposals supporting better e-bike regulations are still in discussion, aiming to address safety concerns and noise complaints about the increasing prevalence of e-bikes in the community. Senator Rachel Lamasao drew attention to a resolution requesting better management related to invasive species and possible security risks at Middle Loch and other West Loch areas. She encouraged residents to report any clogged streams or dangerous areas in need of state attention, especially since heavy rain saturation still threatens certain roadways and infrastructure in Pearl City.
Updates from Hawai‘i State Representatives
Representative Gregg Takayama discussed three key House proposals targeting youth vaping, including the potential ban on disposable e-cigarette devices that create hazardous waste in landfills or incinerators. He emphasized the significant rate of teen nicotine addiction in Hawai‘i and how these measures would limit the sale of unregulated vape products. He added that the legislature is vigilant in preventing state laws that would remove local or county authority on matters like parking requirements for new dwelling units. Representative Cory Chun highlighted emergency funding for farmers impacted by storms, noting a short application window to receive relief through the Department of Agriculture. He also touched upon issues regarding pothole repairs in major traffic corridors. Representative Trish LaChica, represented by staff, focused on stronger pedestrian safety measures and safe routes to schools, further pointing out major legislative priorities concerning crosswalk improvements and expansions of infrastructure to keep pedestrians safe.
University of Hawai‘i System and Leeward Community College
Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza appeared on behalf of both Leeward Community College and UH West O‘ahu, describing storm-induced power and network infrastructure issues. He reported ongoing repairs to campus buildings and systems. He highlighted recent student successes in national cybersecurity competitions at both campuses and encouraged Pearl City high school seniors to take advantage of automatic acceptance programs if they meet certain GPA thresholds. He also discussed potential expansions at the UH West O‘ahu campus, emphasizing the university’s long-term plan to address critical community needs, including housing and greater academic offerings in the Leeward region.
Board Business: Resolutions and Neighborhood Initiatives
The board discussed a resolution aimed at improving the bulk pickup process within multi-unit associations by designating specific drop-off points and enforcing stricter house rules. This measure is intended to stop illegal dumping, reduce scattered large items, and preserve the appearance of Pearl City’s neighborhoods. The resolution urges the Honolulu City Council and Department of Environmental Services to collaborate with associations to streamline the pickup schedule and enforce fines for residents who breach these rules. In addition, the board finalized a decision to send a letter to the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation requesting the repair of damaged fencing along Kamehameha Highway near Sunset Memorial Park. A related letter is also planned to be sent to the Department of Transportation Services regarding traffic safety improvements proposed earlier.
U.S. Military Updates
Representatives from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam commended first responders dealing with potholes, storm debris, and power outages. They updated the board on a recent agreement turning Kolekole Pass into an official emergency route during disasters. The Navy’s Pearl Harbor tour for community members was promoted, featuring information on environmental stewardship and local maritime history. The Navy Closure Task Force for Red Hill mentioned ongoing degassing efforts for specific fuel tanks and collaboration with the Department of Health ahead of reactivating wells and water distribution systems. The Navy assured board members it would address recent concerns about debris and illegal dumping near Pearl City Peninsula and also remind service members of HOV lane regulations.
Public Library and Closing Announcements
Pearl City Public Library announced temporary closures on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. They also noted progress toward signing a lease for a pop-up location at Pearlridge Mall once final details gain Attorney General approval. The board announced upcoming craft fairs and community events, including an Easter egg hunt at the Momilani Community Center. Members thanked first responders, city agencies, and community volunteers for their coordinated actions during the storms, all underscoring the importance of collective efforts to keep Pearl City neighborhoods safe and vibrant. The meeting adjourned after final updates on the next scheduled neighborhood board gathering set for April 28, 2026.