No 32 Waimānalo Neighborhood Board Regular Meeting March 2026
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32 Waimanalo Neighborhood Board Meeting – March 11, 2026
Opening and Pule
Vice Chair Kuike Kamakau called the meeting to order at approximately 7:01 PM and asked for a volunteer to offer the opening pule. A community member who identified herself as “Ma,” shared a prayer of blessings over the meeting, asking for guidance and unity. This opening set a respectful tone for the evening’s discussions, focusing on how best to address neighborhood concerns while remaining grounded in shared traditions.
‘Ōlelo No‘eau and Acknowledgment of Kupuna
Vice Chair Kamakau introduced ‘Ōlelo No‘eau number 18, “Ahukupanaaha i ka lā i Mana,” an expression referring to peculiar occurrences and illusions often seen in the area of Mana. This served as a cultural reminder that grounded attendees in Hawaiian heritage. The Board also observed “Lohe i ke Kupuna,” inviting elders to share wisdom and memories for the record. One kupuna recalled how Waimanalo’s beaches and population have grown significantly, reflecting on past landmarks and filming locations in the area. Board members acknowledged the importance of preserving these recollections and ensuring they inspire future generations.
Emergency Providers’ Reports
Honolulu Fire Department
A representative from the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) shared February statistics, reporting 44 medical calls, 3 motor vehicle incidents, 3 activated alarms, and 1 brush fire. They highlighted the value of maintaining smoke alarms, advising that units be placed in and around sleeping areas and tested monthly. Any smoke alarm older than 10 years should be replaced. Attendees expressed appreciation for HFD’s service and raised no pressing concerns.
Honolulu Police Department
Officers from District 4 introduced themselves and shared monthly crime statistics for February 2026. Motor vehicle thefts fell to 0 from 1 the previous month, burglaries remained at 0, thefts decreased from 5 to 4, unlawful entries into vehicles dropped from 2 to 1, and robberies rose from 0 to 2 reported incidents. One community member thanked the officers for increased patrolling around Hunananiho, acknowledging heightened attention to underage drinking and other undesirable behaviors.
Ocean Safety
A Windward Operations Lieutenant outlined comprehensive District 2 visitor data from Sandy Beach to Kalama Beach Park with an overall attendance of about 102,300 people and nearly 14,000 preventative actions. The report included 1,200 first aids, 22,000 public contacts, and 101 rescues that were formally logged. The Lieutenant explained protocols for co-responses with fire, police, and emergency medical services when near-drownings or long-distance rescues occur. They also detailed homeless incidents at Hunananiho and how lifeguards work with Honolulu Police Department and the city to address safety concerns. The Board reiterated its gratitude for their swift interventions and requested updates on how agencies respond collectively in harsh weather conditions.
Public Agencies’ Reports
Board of Water Supply
A representative shared there was one recorded water main break in Waimanalo in February, involving a 1957 pipe. The Board of Water Supply highlighted World Water Day on March 22nd, emphasizing awareness of global water scarcity. Several community members questioned billing issues that involve back-charged sewer fees, citing burdensome three-year retroactive bills and potential threats to water shutoff. Board of Water Supply reaffirmed it only collects fees and that Environmental Services (ENV) holds authority over sewer charges. The Neighborhood Board agreed to elevate this concern to the Mayor’s Office for a timely resolution. The representative also noted that their manager, Ernie Lau, is willing to speak at a future meeting upon official invitation.
Mayor’s Representative
Director Laura Thielen addressed previous questions concerning flood zone insurance mandates, noting the city’s participation in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program that can yield a 10% discount on premiums. She reported that community organizations can apply for fireworks permits under the city’s regulatory structure, referencing the limited role of municipality funding in these events. She added that for large-scale gatherings, the Parks Department works on coordinating space and resources to handle the number of attendees and safety factors. A portion of the discussion focused on how Native Hawaiian cultural celebrations may be facilitated at parks, including Waimanalo and Makapu‘u sites. The Director promised to return with developed guidelines on broader community usage and how events or family reunions requiring extensive participant numbers might be accommodated on licensed Hawaiian Home Lands parcels.
State Department of Transportation
A DOT Highways representative discussed the status of erosion mitigation work along Kalanianaʻole Highway. He shared a sketch proposing a temporary fix using geotechnical engineering techniques, noting past successes with similar solutions near Makapuʻu Beach. The department plans a midterm fix and potentially relocating sections of the highway inland, contingent on future legislative support and funding. The representative also addressed beach access signage and guardrail issues across from residential properties. One resident requested closure of a beach access due to concerns over trespassing and off-road vehicles, prompting the DOT official to seek input from the Board on whether to keep those access ways open or closed.
Board Vacancies
Two at-large seats remain vacant. The Vice Chair invited residents interested in volunteering for the Neighborhood Board to step forward, though none did at this meeting. Members encouraged dialogue within the community to fill these positions.
Community Organization Reports
Education Updates
Representatives from various schools were invited, with brief updates provided by Kailua High School Kula Kaiapuni staff. The principal and a kumu described efforts to strengthen Hawaiian language immersion pathways for intermediate and high school students transitioning from Blanche Pope Elementary. They noted a community desire for continuity in immersion programs, suggesting coordination with the complex area superintendent, other DOE officials, and local legislators to ensure such pathways remain solid and well-supported.
Windward Community College
The Chancellor reported that enrollment numbers are stable, with midterm exams underway and a campus spring break approaching. Summer school registration opens on April 10th and fall enrollment on April 27th. She also reminded the community about scholarships for area high school graduates—part of the Hoʻolei “last dollar” program—to ensure tuition costs are covered. A Career Expo is scheduled for March 31st, offering attendees the chance to meet dozens of potential employers.
Hawaii Job Corps
The community liaison highlighted the center’s rising enrollment, growing closer to 70% capacity after its prior shutdown. Thirty students have recently earned their high school diplomas, and the facility continues to offer weekly campus tours every Thursday. Job openings include residential positions and a registered nurse role, some carrying sign-on bonuses. Students and staff maintain a strong community presence, providing volunteer help at local food distribution events.
Waimanalo Health Center
A representative drew attention to March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of early screenings. She noted the Health Center’s ongoing job openings in medical, dental, and cultural health departments, emphasizing that certain dental assistant positions do not require prior training. Their website remains a primary resource for interested applicants.
Resident and Community Concerns
Kāne/Hawaiian Immersion Pathways
Several parents of Blanche Pope Elementary school students passionately detailed the need for a consistent Kayapuni pathway from elementary through intermediate and eventually high school. They described uncertainty about seventh and eighth grade immersion classes, citing a lack of clarity or official plan from the Department of Education. Concerns were raised around teacher shortfalls, the desire to keep students within Waimanalo, and the possibility of bridging to Kailua High School’s existing Hawaiian language program. The Board discussed drafting a resolution to articulate these needs and plans to follow up at future meetings.
Elected Officials’ Reports
Honolulu City Council
Councilmember Esther Kia‘āina reported on budget items impacting Waimanalo, naming specific flood control measures and wastewater facility improvements. She highlighted progress with speed mitigation plans on Hihimanu Street, which has already secured widespread resident support, and upcoming efforts on Laumilo Street once relevant petitions are circulated. Discussion also touched on the Waimanalo Beach Park master plan improvements and ongoing exploration of a pump track project, a specialized skate and biking track that may receive planning and construction funds.
Hawai‘i State Legislature
Representative Lisa Martin discussed legislative efforts focused on human services, homelessness, and public school facility planning. She confirmed that design funding is in place for additions to Blanche Pope Elementary, though no immediate plan exists allowing seventh and eighth graders to remain at that site. She also announced a free educational session on Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) measures scheduled at Waimanalo District Park. Supplies such as traps and netting will be made available to local residents seeking to protect their palms.
Board Business
Approval of Minutes
Minutes from the previous meeting on January 12, 2026, were approved without amendments.
Dog-Friendly Parks Proposal
This item remains pending, with discussions deferred to future consultations. Community members and the Board wish to coordinate with relevant agencies and stakeholder groups before finalizing or rejecting the proposal.
Waimanalo Affordable Apartments Resolution
Members previewed amendments regarding rental caps and post-improvement costs. Citing limited time, they deferred final consideration to the next session to incorporate relevant input more fully.
Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Updates
Participants reiterated serious concerns about CRB infestations and the potential threat to Hawai‘i’s coconut trees. The Board recognized an immediate need for stronger biosecurity measures, noting how invasive pests undermine local identity, food sources, and cultural practices. They voted unanimously to empower the Chair or a designee to provide testimony on related state proposals, including measures under the Board of Agriculture, to ensure Waimanalo’s voice is heard.
Conclusion
Vice Chair Kamakau thanked the community for their patience and involvement. He invited everyone to the next regular meeting, scheduled for April 13, 2026, and reminded them that archived broadcasts of the Neighborhood Board meetings air on ‘Ōlelo Channel 49. The evening concluded with a closing pule, expressing gratitude for progress made and seeking guidance for upcoming decisions that will shape Waimanalo’s future.