No 21 Pearl City Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting September 2026
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21 Pearl City Neighborhood Board Meeting – September 24, 2026
Opening, Meeting Procedures, and Quorum
The Pearl City Neighborhood Board convened at Momilani Community Center at 7 p.m.; although the meeting title identifies September 24, the chair’s opening remarks stated Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Cub Scout Pack 75 led the Pledge of Allegiance. Participants attending in person were instructed to raise their hands to speak, while Webex attendees were asked to use the virtual hand-raising function. Public comments were limited to three minutes and presentations to five minutes, with board members required to keep their cameras active. The chair welcomed Camelia Epa as the board’s new Neighborhood Commission assistant, succeeding Melissa Urbillo. Roll call established that 10 members were present, providing a quorum. The board later approved the August 25, 2026 meeting minutes without correction.
Cub Scout Pack 75 Community Service
Cub Scout Pack 75 announced the beginning of its 2026–2027 scouting year and reported completing its first service project with the Honolulu Police Department at Pacheco Park. Ten Cub Scouts collected approximately six bags of trash and painted over graffiti on park walls. The chair thanked the pack and noted that its work, combined with Little League volunteers using loaned lawn equipment to groom the grounds, had visibly improved the park. Pack 75 plans to join HPD again for the October 10 Pearl Harbor Bike Path cleanup. Families interested in joining the pack were directed to bascout.org and advised to enter ZIP code 96782 to find local information.
Honolulu Fire Department Incident Report
The Pearl City Fire Station reported confirmed August 2026 incidents within the neighborhood board’s geographic area. These included no structure fires, brush or wildland fires, or cooking fires; three nuisance fires; and 11 alarm activations where no fire was found. Firefighters responded to 124 medical emergencies, seven motor vehicle crashes, one mountain rescue, one ocean rescue, and two hazardous-material incidents, with no pedestrian-involved motor vehicle collisions reported. Nuisance fires were defined as rubbish fires outside buildings or vehicles. Residents seeking incident maps or more detail were referred to the Fire Response Search tool at fire.honolulu.gov.
Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Prevention
HFD warned that it is responding to a growing number of fires involving lithium-ion batteries used in phones, laptops, e-bikes, e-scooters, toys, tools, and vehicles. Firefighters advised residents to use manufacturer-approved cords and chargers, charge devices on hard and flat surfaces, unplug devices once fully charged, and charge large equipment outdoors when possible without blocking exits. Devices should no longer be used if they become unusually hot, swell, leak, smoke, smell strange, or make hissing or popping sounds. Travelers were advised to keep charging devices visible aboard aircraft and never charge vapes or e-cigarettes in flight. HFD also announced Fire Prevention Week Family Day at the Honolulu Zoo on October 3, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., under the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”
Pearl City Crime and Traffic Statistics
HPD reported increases in vehicle theft and burglary between July and August. Eight motor vehicle thefts occurred in August, three more than in July, while five burglaries represented an increase of four. Other thefts declined from 31 to 23, and vehicle break-ins dropped from eight to two. Islandwide traffic fatalities were down 29% for the year, but pedestrian fatalities had increased by 10%, with many incidents involving people crossing outside marked crosswalks. With October designated National Pedestrian Safety Month, HPD urged drivers to remain patient and “drive with aloha,” while pedestrians were asked to use crosswalks, make eye contact with motorists, and remain visible and attentive. HPD also reminded residents that city law prohibits viewing or using a mobile device while in a crosswalk.
School-Zone Speed Limits and Enforcement
Board members raised concerns that newly installed school-zone signs on Waimano Home Road are confusing because they combine a 20-mph limit, the phrase “when children are present,” and the hours 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Members said that driving at 20 mph can feel unsafe when large trucks and faster vehicles approach from behind, particularly when surrounding motorists do not comply. HPD recommended following the posted 20-mph limit as the safest practice and agreed to raise the signage issue with the Department of Transportation Services. Officers also committed to conducting enforcement on Waimano Home Road. Similar speeding pressure was reported on Moanalua Road near Waiau Elementary School, where motorists frequently crowd drivers who reduce speed to 20 mph.
Illegal School Turns and Congestion
Residents described dangerous morning traffic around Pearl City schools, including motorists making prohibited left turns near Noelani Elementary School and from nearby streets during restricted hours. One resident said the area is especially chaotic between approximately 7:20 and 7:30 a.m. and noted that, despite nearly 40 years of observing the location, enforcement has been rare. HPD said officers had previously issued warnings at Pearl City Elementary and the intermediate school rather than immediately ticketing parents, but acknowledged that the turns create risks for children and pedestrians. Officers explained that enforcement can be difficult because there is little shoulder space for police vehicles and stopping cars may worsen congestion, but agreed to monitor the area and conduct additional enforcement.
Nanakai Crosswalk and Ho‘oma‘ema‘e Traffic
A board member renewed a longstanding request to remove or relocate the crosswalk at Nanakai Street and Waimano Home Road, arguing that motorists frequently cover the crossing and that a pedestrian stepping into traffic could be struck before drivers can react. City officials later confirmed that the crosswalk is proposed for relocation and incorporation into the signalized Waimano Home Road intersection at Wana‘ao or Wanalua Road and Ko‘oloa Street under a later phase of the traffic-improvement project. The board also asked about school congestion near Ho‘oma‘ema‘e Street. A participant observed that conditions may have improved because the intermediate school now dismisses at a different time on Tuesdays and Thursdays, reducing overlap, although HPD had no formal update.
Waiau Park Sports Fight
The board discussed a fight that occurred during youth football activities at Waiau District Park. HPD said the remaining games that day were canceled and that the Department of Parks and Recreation may consider revoking permits for the leagues or groups involved. No final disciplinary determination had been made. Board members and residents stressed that the entire youth sports program should not be punished for the conduct of a limited number of participants, especially because many children and families use the park responsibly. The chair said the incident was embarrassing to the community, that violence and disrespect at sporting events cannot be tolerated, and that an investigation should identify and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Tropical Storm Lala Response and Disaster Preparedness
City Facilities Maintenance Director and Chief Engineer Gene Albano summarized the city’s response to Tropical Storm Lala. The Emergency Operations Center and Joint Operations Center were activated, city workers conducted islandwide recovery operations, and assistance was expanded for affected residents. The mayor’s newsletter contains department-by-department information on the response and guidance for preparing for future natural disasters. Albano also described representing Honolulu at a national storm conference while the storm was developing and participating in national public-works and storm-response discussions to strengthen advocacy and planning for future events.
Storm Debris and Tree Hazards in Pacific Palisades
The Department of Facilities Maintenance reported that a storm-related tree pickup was completed on August 31 around Wai‘au Gardens Kai Circle. Board members identified continuing hazards on Komo Mai Drive, including trees and branches entangled with utility or communications lines, debris in the center median, and very tall trees capable of falling across both mauka- and makai-bound lanes. Tropical Storm Lala had already brought down a tree and reportedly blocked access to Pacific Palisades for approximately five hours, leaving residents unable to enter or leave. The city believes some hazardous trees are on private property and is coordinating with the appropriate department to notify owners that maintenance may be required. Albano agreed to prioritize inspection and cleanup along Komo Mai Drive.
Waimano Home Road Safety Improvements
DTS reported that a raised median and rectangular rapid-flashing beacon are being installed on Waimano Home Road under the Traffic Engineering Devices at Various Locations Phase 3A project. Completion is expected in November 2026, contingent on a Hawaiian Electric connection. Under Phase 3B, the Nanakai Street crosswalk is proposed for relocation into the nearby signalized intersection. The board also revisited a no-U-turn sign on Ko‘oloa Street near the bus facility and Raising Cane’s. A member clarified that the sign was newly added rather than missing and said it forces drivers to continue to the Foodland entrance to turn around. DTS’s response indicated that the sign was part of approved city plans and that a work order existed to replace a missing sign, prompting the board to request clarification about the actual condition and desired traffic movement.
Pearl Harbor Bike Path Condition and October Cleanup
Multiple agencies and community groups announced participation in the annual Pearl Harbor Bike Path cleanup on October 10. The Department of Facilities Maintenance is coordinating the event at several locations, with Pack 75, Pearl City Community Church, state legislators, the Navy, and other volunteers expected to participate. Board members said the stretch between Lehua Avenue and the Waiawa Stream bridge floods regularly and may require relocation rather than repaving. Jurisdiction is complicated: the bike path is generally a city responsibility, ocean-side land is federal, and land on the other side is often state-owned. Officials agreed that long-term repairs will require coordination among city, state, and federal agencies.
Waiawa Stream, Flooding, and Encampment-Related Activity
Councilmember Val Okimoto’s office reported participating with the state Department of Transportation, Department of Land and Natural Resources, and city Facilities Maintenance in a site visit to Waiawa Stream and the Pearl Harbor Bike Path. A tree obstructing the stream was removed, reducing some flooding concerns. Officials also found an unauthorized chicken operation in the area; the state was notified, signs were posted, and the operation was expected to move by September 28. Representative Cory Chun later noted that the damaged bike-path area near Lehua Avenue and the Urban Garden Center is currently impassable. He said the footbridge may ultimately need to be demolished and rebuilt because closely spaced pylons trap debris, although utility lines and overlapping jurisdictions complicate the work.
Dog Ordinances and Shopping Cart Accountability
Councilmember Okimoto is working with the Department of Customer Services, the Hawaiian Humane Society, and Representative Cory Chun to strengthen dog-control ordinances by increasing criminal fines and creating civil fines for irresponsible dog owners. The board also discussed Bill 53, drafted by Council Chair Tommy Waters, which seeks to hold retailers more accountable for abandoned shopping carts. The chair said carts can cost approximately $500 to $1,000 each and that losses are ultimately reflected in consumer prices. Okimoto’s office noted that a similar proposal was introduced roughly three years earlier but failed after unfavorable public and media reaction. Bill 53 had received an initial hearing and was before the Public Safety Committee chaired by Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam. The chair planned to submit supportive testimony.
Potential Workforce Housing on Department of Health Land
Senator Brandon Elefante reported on a Department of Health parcel at Waimano Home Road and Ho‘okele Street that had been suggested for workforce housing. DOH identified substantial obstacles: the land is zoned P-2 General Preservation and would require rezoning for residential use; the Board of Water Supply does not support the existing DOH water system on the ridge for housing; hydrants are supplied by a private DOH well near the Uluakupu building; Hawaiian Electric has advised that electrical infrastructure needs improvement; and Tropical Storm Lala caused outages that closed DOH offices for approximately one and a half days. Any development would also require a traffic study. DOH currently has no long-range plan, proposal, or funding for the parcel, but Elefante said the Legislature could continue exploring workforce housing there with community engagement. Board members argued that the large site should be assessed for teacher housing, citing a compact teacher-housing project in Mililani as a comparison.
Pacific Palisades Emergency Access Route
Senator Elefante reported that the Legislature appropriated $1 million for planning and design of a possible emergency route for Pacific Palisades. HDOT is examining preliminary routes, primarily running south and makai out of the neighborhood, but the concepts are expensive. Another possible makai route farther north would also carry significant costs. Board members suggested using existing roads through farms, a wedding venue, Kamehameha Schools land, federal property, or an old cane-haul route descending toward Waihona Street and the industrial area. Officials emphasized that evacuation direction must depend on the hazard: traveling makai may be inappropriate during a tsunami but useful during some wildfire scenarios. Elefante said government agencies also need better real-time coordination with Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze, and similar platforms so residents receive clear routing during emergencies.
Freeway Potholes and Shoulder-Lane Proposal
Residents reported large potholes in both directions between Aloha Stadium and Nimitz Highway, saying motorists are swerving to avoid them. Senator Elefante agreed to follow up with HDOT. A board member also proposed opening the eastbound shoulder lane near the Waimano Home Road on-ramp, Wai‘au, and Red Hill around the clock rather than only during the morning commute, when it reportedly operates from about 6:30 to 9 a.m. The member said weekend congestion and crashes occur where traffic compresses into fewer lanes and argued that a second outer shoulder remains available for disabled vehicles. Elefante agreed to consult area legislators and transportation officials, while the chair asked that the proposal be put in writing for formal consideration.
Pedestrian Access for Blind Residents
Board member Don Sakamoto discussed a proposed state measure requiring audible pedestrian signals at crosswalks. The bill did not pass during the previous legislative session, although the Pearl City Neighborhood Board had adopted a resolution supporting audible crossings. Sakamoto said he would work with Senator Elefante, the National Federation of the Blind of Hawaii, and other advocates to revive the proposal. He also announced a White Cane Awareness Walk at the State Capitol on October 16 at 9 a.m.
State Capitol Renovations and Legislative Planning
Senate offices on the State Capitol’s second floor are scheduled for approximately two months of renovations beginning October 1. Senators Elefante and Henry Aquino-area colleague Senator Lynn DeCoite/Lama Sau’s offices indicated that staff would work remotely while continuing to answer calls, emails, and constituent requests, with limited flex space available for in-person meetings. Legislators reminded the board that the interim period is the appropriate time to propose bills and priorities before the new session begins on the third Wednesday of January. Capitol tours remain available, although access to the Senate chamber is restricted during the election period.
State and Community Events
Senator Elefante announced a free Aloha Stadium Community Art Day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the following Saturday, featuring artist Solomon Enos and inviting participants of all ages to contribute artwork reflecting their communities. Representative Cory Chun announced the Mark Takai Family Fun Day at Momilani Community Center from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with children’s games, food vendors, and community organizations. The board also noted that a community market with crafters, food trucks, and keiki activities was expected at the same location, weather permitting. Pearl City’s Senior Little League world champions were congratulated for bringing pride to the community, and legislators described honoring the team at the Capitol and joining a local celebratory parade.
Agriculture, Food Production, and Farm Incentives
Representative Cory Chun discussed efforts to diversify Hawaii’s economy through agriculture. The University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources is mapping land statewide to identify crops best suited to particular parcels, helping prospective farmers make informed decisions. Chun said more young people are showing interest in agriculture and that state policy should help serious farmers build viable careers. Current support includes low-interest loans, agricultural land tax incentives, and transportation subsidies. A continuing policy challenge is defining “bona fide farming” so benefits go to people genuinely producing food rather than those seeking agricultural land primarily for other purposes. Chun also discussed agrivoltaics, including pilot projects that combine solar panels with sheep grazing or shade-tolerant crops, while members questioned whether large solar farms are an efficient use of Oahu’s limited land.
Waiawa Correctional Facility Agriculture and Axis Deer
A board member cited Waiawa Correctional Facility as an example of institutional agriculture, noting that incarcerated participants have reportedly grown enough food to support their own facility and share with others. The discussion broadened to farming incentives such as reduced water costs, tax benefits, and infrastructure assistance. Members also raised the overpopulation of axis deer on Maui and questioned why harvested meat cannot be sold or distributed more widely. Chun explained that a bill passed in 2026 created a Maui pilot program allowing hunters to donate axis deer meat through food banks, with the Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Biosecurity addressing inspection, processing, and food-safety requirements.
Schools, Workforce Development, and Teacher Recognition
Representative Chun congratulated Pearl City High School Academy Coordinator Chad Chishido, selected as the 2027 Pearl City–Waipahu Complex Teacher of the Year. Representative Trish La Chica’s office reported on the opening of Mililani High School’s MIRA program, which gives students hands-on exposure to manufacturing, engineering, and related careers. Her office also participated in Mililani Complex professional development activities and met with the Department of Education’s Adult Education and Workforce Development Branch to discuss internships and career pathways. A pre-legislative survey was launched for District 37 residents to identify priorities for the 2027 session, and the office described a Capitol visit for homeschooling families that included the House floor and Governor’s Office.
Mental Health Transfers to Waiawa Correctional Center
Representative La Chica met with Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Director Tommy Johnson regarding plans to transfer individuals with mental-health needs from Halawa to Waiawa Correctional Center. She emphasized that transfers should not occur without adequate staffing, appropriate facility safety improvements, specialized staff training, and suitable treatment and care. Her office requested a review of the implementation plans and intends to hold additional meetings before the transfer process moves forward.
Community Cleanups and Neighborhood Security
Representative La Chica’s office joined HPD District 2’s Community Policing Team, Mālama O Ka ‘Āina, the Department of Facilities Maintenance, interns, and residents for a Waipio Gentry cleanup. In two hours, participants collected six bags of trash, removed a shopping cart, and covered or removed graffiti. Another cleanup was scheduled at Rainbow Tunnel, although the volunteer roster was already full. Senator Lama Sau also highlighted regular service projects through her mauka-to-makai initiative, including fourth-Saturday work in Waipahu, Pearl Harbor Bike Path cleanups, and participation in National Night Out. The board praised Pearl City’s Neighborhood Security Watch programs, particularly the Manana group, for walking neighborhoods alongside community policing officers.
Federal Appropriations and Community Funding
Congressman Ed Case’s office reported that the House Appropriations Committee completed review and approval of all 12 federal funding bills for fiscal year 2027, with the measures awaiting consideration by the full Congress. Case secured support for Native Hawaiian housing, community policing, coral reef protection, invasive-species prevention, the East-West Center, women’s business centers, and other programs. All 20 of his requested community projects were approved at the committee stage, totaling approximately $18.9 million. The FAA Hawaii Airspace Modernization Project is in its solution-development phase, during which the agency is developing possible changes to airspace and flight procedures.
Aircraft Routes and Neighborhood Overflights
The board recalled its formal comments to Congressman Case and the FAA concerning tour helicopters and military aircraft flying over Pearl City and Aiea schools, churches, shopping centers, and residential areas. The chair argued that aircraft could still provide Pearl Harbor sightseeing routes without routinely passing over densely populated areas and stressed the potential consequences of an aircraft accident. The board intends to remain involved as the FAA develops revised routes and procedures.
Military Academy and Student Coding Opportunities
Congressman Case’s office announced that applications for nominations to U.S. military service academies, including West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy, were due October 9. The Congressional App Challenge, open to middle and high school students using any coding language and without a required theme, had an October 26 deadline.
Child Sex Trafficking Awareness
Hō‘ōla Nā Pua presented information correcting common misconceptions about child sex trafficking. Fewer than 10% of cases begin with kidnapping or abduction; many exploited children continue living at home, attending school, and moving through the community without disclosing what is happening. At least 36% of traffickers are women, 82% of identified cases occur in the United States, and in 84% of cases the child was trafficked by someone known to them, such as a romantic partner, family member, family friend, or trusted acquaintance. Boys account for 35% of nationally reported cases and 23% of reported Hawaii cases, although underreporting is believed to be substantial. Approximately two-thirds of victims, regardless of gender, never tell anyone.
Trafficking Risk Factors and Prevention
The presentation explained that traffickers exploit vulnerabilities and unmet needs rather than relying primarily on forceful abduction. These vulnerabilities can include lack of food, housing, clothing, safety, stable family relationships, and belonging. Children exposed to domestic violence may seek safety outside the home and become vulnerable to someone who initially offers shelter, attention, or support before exploiting them. Community disruptions can increase risk: trafficking reportedly rose after the Lahaina wildfires and during government shutdowns when household income fell and family stress increased. Hō‘ōla Nā Pua offers free in-person and virtual education for students, educators, health-care workers, and community groups, and seeks mentors, volunteers, donations, and community hosts. The board expressed interest in a future educational session and broader media outreach.
Waihona Street Industrial Rezoning Request
Environmental Communications presented a request on behalf of property owner Stanley Ma to rezone approximately 14.62 acres at 96-1268 Waihona Street from R-5 residential to I-2 intensive industrial. The site has operated for more than 30 years as a tow yard, vehicle-storage area, junkyard, and scrap-metal operation under a variance originally issued under the former R-6 zoning framework in the early 1980s and effective in the early 1990s. Waiawa Stream divides the property, and vehicle areas are connected by a pipe culvert crossing. The land has water and electricity but no sewer service and relies on portable toilets. The owner described the request as regulatory “housekeeping” that would make the zoning consistent with ongoing industrial activity and allow future industrial improvements such as warehouses.
Environmental and Land-Use Concerns at the Tow Yard
Board members questioned why I-2 zoning was requested when nearby lands include I-1 limited industrial, agricultural, military preservation, and general preservation districts. They raised concerns about fuel, oil, antifreeze, and other contaminants leaking from vehicles onto unpaved ground and entering Waiawa Stream, particularly during floods. Members also questioned whether the requested zoning could enable more intensive future uses and whether 42 years of operation under a variance already provided legal protection. The applicant said an environmental assessment is being prepared and that no present evidence of leakage had been identified, although past contamination could not be ruled out. The owner said the Department of Health regularly inspects the facility, that the operation is clean, and that rezoning would make it possible to pave the property, build covered warehouse space, and better contain potential pollutants.
Towing Capacity and Public Service
The property owner said the yard is the city’s contracted towing site and is uniquely able to store approximately 2,000 vehicles, a requirement for the contract. Relocating the operation farther west could force Honolulu and Waikiki motorists to travel to Waianae to retrieve cars and could increase operating costs. The owner said an I-1 designation would not allow the existing towing, dismantling, and scrap activities, making I-2 necessary. Board members acknowledged the need for towing capacity because hundreds of abandoned vehicles occupy Pearl City streets, but requested stronger information on recycling frequency, accumulation limits, paving, stormwater controls, Department of Health oversight, and stream protection.
Rezoning Review Process and Follow-Up
The applicant explained that the zoning request is in an early stage. An environmental assessment must be prepared and published, followed by a 30-day public comment period and preparation of a final document incorporating responses. DPP would then circulate the application among agencies and stakeholders during an approximately 90-day review. The Planning Commission would hold another public-comment opportunity before making a recommendation to the City Council, which would decide the final zone change. The board plans to notify DPP that it received the presentation, request a copy of the environmental assessment, and invite the applicant and owner back for further discussion before the matter reaches the Council.
Pearl City Special Area or Community Plan
The board unanimously adopted a resolution asking the city to explore funding a dedicated special area or community plan for Pearl City by the following year. The resolution was introduced by Vice Chair Charmaine Duran, the chair, and board member Daniel Smith. Members noted that Pearl City lacks a distinct planning document and is usually grouped with Aiea, even though it faces its own redevelopment, rezoning, transportation, industrial, residential, and transit-oriented-development questions. The motion passed with 10 votes in favor, none opposed, and no abstentions.
Navy Leadership, Tours, and Community Engagement
Navy Region Hawaii announced that Rear Admiral Brad Collins transferred command on September 2 to Rear Admiral Rich Jarrett, formerly of Navy Region Southwest. Jarrett had already begun meeting community representatives and learning about local Navy issues. Monthly ship tours were paused for September but are expected to resume in October on Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. The Navy also plans to continue after-hours community “white boat” tours of Pearl Harbor, including a stop at the USS Arizona Memorial. The chair invited the new admiral to address the board and expressed interest in arranging a Pearl City Lions Club tour.
Red Hill Closure and Halawa Shaft Reactivation
Navy Closure Task Force–Red Hill reported that the Hawaii Department of Health granted conditional approval on September 4 to reactivate the Navy’s Aiea-Halawa Shaft. Residents on the Navy water system were notified that reactivation would occur no earlier than September 28, allowing the required 10-day notice period. The Navy said EPA testing had found the water safe and free of fuel contaminants, although board members wanted the Board of Water Supply and EPA consulted about any remaining concerns. Pipeline removal at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility continued, with approximately 6.4% of nearly 10 miles of pipeline removed. The Navy thanked residents who attended its recent town hall and open house.
Pearl Harbor Bike Path Federal Coordination
The board asked the Navy to clarify the governance of federal land along the damaged Pearl Harbor Bike Path and Waiawa Stream corridor. Members said any rerouting or reconstruction must account for fuel lines, communications infrastructure, bridge access, and the memorandum of agreement between the city and Navy. The chair proposed a separate coordination meeting with Navy representatives and board members to review documents and evaluate whether a public bypass could be created while preserving critical utility access.
Pearl City Public Library Renovation
Pearl City Public Library reported a delay in its planned renovation closure and temporary relocation to Pearlridge Center. The delay involves a state contracting requirement that Pearlridge demonstrate compliance with Hawaii legal and administrative requirements before doing business with the state. Library staff expected to provide a clearer schedule at the next meeting. The board reiterated community interest in the transition and temporary library services.
Board of Water Supply Update
The Board of Water Supply reported no water-main breaks in Pearl City during August. It announced the 2026 “Imagine a Day Without Water” event, held in partnership with Representative Chris Muraoka’s office and more than 25 city, state, nonprofit, and community organizations. The free family event was scheduled for September 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wai‘anae Mall and was to include interactive exhibits, educational displays, hands-on activities, games, prizes, a rain-barrel workshop, and food for purchase. The event emphasized the “One Water” concept that all water resources are interconnected and should be managed as a single valuable system. The board also asked BWS to follow up with Manager Ernie Lau regarding the planned Halawa Shaft reactivation.
Closing Priorities
The chair thanked board members for substantive discussion and encouraged them to place proposals in writing, particularly ideas involving school-zone safety, freeway operations, emergency routes, planning, rezoning, infrastructure, and legislative priorities. He emphasized that written testimony, resolutions, and formal requests would be needed to move community proposals through city and state agencies. With no additional business, the meeting was adjourned.