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09. Waikīkī NB Regular Meeting
Waikīkī Community Center, 310 Paoakalani Ave., Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, 96815, United States, Honolulu
WAIKĪKĪ NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 9
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M.
WAIKĪKĪ COMMUNITY CENTER
310 PAOAKALANI AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96815
HYBRID MEETING
PRESENTERS USING PROJECTION MUST BRING EQUIPMENT ONLY AGENDA PRESENTERS MAY SCREEN SHARE DURING MEETING
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=m2138b1440f1f29820d7c892b39201129
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2492 497 4001
Password: NB09 (6209 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 United States Toll
Meeting Materials: Find an archive of handouts and referenced materials for Neighborhood Board No.9 at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U5LqhO7cjTWUAsZeSiesn99MJa87ouZE
Recordings of Board Meetings can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice
Rules of Speaking: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand, and when recognized by the Chair, to address comments to the Chair. Speakers are allowed two (2) minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports under three (3) minutes. Please silence all electronic devices.
Note: The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda.
Privacy: This meeting is being recorded for future telecast. Comments made will be part of the video presentation.
I. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS
a. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) on incidents/statistics and safety tips (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov) – Waikīkī Captain
b. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) on incidents/statistics and safety tips (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us/) – Duty Officer
c. Board of Water Supply (BWS) written report– Dominic Dias
II. CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA
III. OʻAHU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS
Times reflect official street closure times from the Honolulu Department of Transportation for closure of Kalākaua Avenue or areas around Kapiʻolani Park. HPD and others may start road closures about 30 minutes prior
a. 4th of July Event Supporting United States America (USA) 250 Anniversary – Lynn Mariano
a. Saturday, June 13, 2026 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., King Kamehameha Floral Parade
b. Sunday, June 14, 2026 3:30 p.m. – 7:00p.m. 43rd Annual Pan Pacific Parade
c. Saturday, July 11, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Family Day Parade (God’s Ohana Day Parade)
IV. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE
a. Special License for Highgate Hotels Twin Fin Hotel Saturday, August 1, 2026 – Saturday, July 31, 2027.
b. Liquor License Hearing for Big Island Burger on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.
V. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES
Officials will provide a briefing on current events that impact the Waikīkī Neighborhood, Board will not vote on any presentation.
a. Mayor’s Representative on constituent concerns and highlights from Mayor’s newsletter – Director of Human Resources Nola Miyasaki on constituent concerns and highlights from Mayor’s Newsletter (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor/)
b. Council Member Tommy Waters on constituent concerns, highlights from newsletter, and other activities. (tommy.waters@honolulu.gov, https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district4)
c. Senator Sharon Moriwaki on constituent concerns and highlights from newsletter (senmoriwaki@capitol.hawaii.gov, https://www.sharonmoriwaki.com/)
d. Representative Adrian Tam on constituent concerns and highlights from newsletter (reptam@capitol.hawaii.gov, https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/legislature/memberpage.aspx?member=132&year=2026)
e. Governors Representative Yvonne Hunter on constituent concerns and highlights from newsletter (https://governor.hawaii.gov/)
VI. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION
Presentation to update Waikīkī Neighborhood on Commercial Events that impact the community. The board will not vote on the presentation – Rick Egged
VII. NEW BOARD BUSINESS: For Neighbors and Board Members Discussion and vote by Board Members.
a. Oʻahu Community Resilience Hub Presentation – Sage Murakami
b. Kūhiō Beach Shower Improvement Project – Paola Machan (virtual presentation)
c. Board Member 3 Absent Letter – Neighborhood Plan 2-14-106
VIII. COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Public Safety and Civil Defense – Huycke
b. State and City Legislation Engagement – Anderson
IX. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Board Members to vote on corrections and final Minutes.
Corrections to Draft Minutes (unless minor spelling) to be sent to board members 48 hours prior to the Tuesday, June 9, 2026 meeting.
a. Tuesday, May 12, 2026 drafted meeting minutes.
X. REPORTS (Limited to three (3) minutes each)
a. Sub district 1 Report- Merz
b. Sub district 2 Report- Anderson
c. Sub district 3 Report- Henski
d. Chair Report
XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS
The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 6:00p.m. Waikīkī Community Center 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.
XII. ADJOURNMENT
View this meeting on Olelo Channel 49 at 9:00 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday each month, and at 6:00 a.m. on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month. View on line at:
A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160 Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817; Telephone (808) 768-3710 Fax (808) 768-3711; or call (808) 768-3710 or e-mail nco@honolulu.gov . Agendas and minutes are also available on the internet at www.honolulu.gov/nco.
All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160 Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96817. Fax: (808) 768-3711. Email: nbtestimony@honolulu.gov.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or send an email to nco@honolulu.gov as soon as possible, preferably at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. If a request is received with fewer than three (3) business days remaining before the meeting, we will try to obtain the auxiliary aid/service or accommodation, but it may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.
DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026 at 6:00 P.M.
WAIKĪKĪ COMMUNITY CENTER – 310 PAOAKALANI AVENUE, HONOLULU, HAWAIʻI, 96815
AND VIA WEBEX TELECONFERENCING
Video recording of this meeting can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkCe6d0M2g4
Reports and other meeting materials can be found at:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U5LqhO7cjTWUAsZeSiesn99MJa87ouZE
I. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:02]: Chair Robert Finley called the Waikīkī Neighborhood Board No. 9 regular meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.
Quorum was established with 13 members present. Note – This 17-member Board requires 9 members to establish a quorum and to take official Board action. Board members must be in-person or have video access.
Board Members Present: Reine Ah Moo, Jillian Anderson, Rolf Nordahl, Cory D' Orazio, Louis Erteschik, Melissa Filek, Robert Finley, Kathryn Henski, Tim Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Nate Serota (via Webex), Shannon Smith, and Jacob Wiencek (6:16 p.m.).
Board Members Absent: Lisa Cabanero, Jeff Merz, and Sarah Worth.
Guests: Fire Fighter II Justin R. Latham (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Omura and Major Okamoto (Honolulu Police Department); Director Nola Miyasaki (Mayor's Representative); Council Chair Tommy Waters; Alex Ozawa (Senator Sharon Moriwaki); Representative Adrian Tam; Trevor Abarza (Waikīkī Business Improvement District); Gregory Misakian (via WebEx),
Geisa (via WebEx), Caroline Brimblecombe (via WebEx), Ed Springer (via WebEx), Alexander Ozawa (via WebEx), Laura Ruby (via WebEx) , Mike Buck (via WebEx) , Pamela Vela (via WebEx), Patrick Smith (Chair of the Neighborhood Commission), John Deutzman, Amy Ammen, Barbara Barry, Pam Walker, Denise Boisvert, Bulla Eastman, Jason Liang, Della Au Belatti, Richard Biron, Serena Lee, David Chung, Yusuke Komoriya, Shari Yamamoto, Elton Murata, Katherine Li, Kevin Lye (Neighborhood Board 13), Tim Garry, and Tara Malia Gregory (Residents); and Anson Wu (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Name was not included if not legible. There were approximately 44 total participants.
II. VOTE TO FILL VACANCY IN SUB DISTRICT 2 (DABBS RESIGNATION) – [0:00:39]
[0:01:04] – Ken Jacob nominated Jacob Wiencek. Discussion followed.
1. Self-Introduction: Jacob Wiencek provided a brief introduction about himself.
2. Office of Information Practice (OIP) Opinion and Sunshine Law Concern: Gregory Misakian raised concerns that OIP had rendered a written opinion stating this agenda item was not properly noticed and that the vote should be deferred, as the vacancy had not been publicly advertised as it had been two months prior. He also expressed personal objections to Wiencek appointment based on prior experiences.
3. Commission Response: Smith, Chair of the Neighborhood Commission, stated he had not seen any OIP opinion and that the board cannot act on an unproduced third-party claim. He applied the “neighbor test” and concluded the agenda item was clear and the vote was entirely appropriate to proceed.
[0:06:31] – The board conducted a roll call vote. Jacob Wiencek filled in the Sub District 4 vacancy; 9-4 (AYE: Anderson, Nordahl, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Finley, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, and Serota; ABSTAIN: Ah Moo, Filek, Henski, and Smith).
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:08:07]
1. Open Seat Suggestion: Henski suggested to have the seat open in future meetings.
III. CITY MONTHLY REPORTS – [0:08:24]
[0:08:33] – Neighborhood Assistant Anson Wu conducted the Oath of Office to Jacob Wiencek. 14 members present.
Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) – [0:08:44]: Fire Fighter II Justin R. Latham provided April 2026 statistics and the May 2026 safety tip and highlighted the following:
[0:08:52] – Chair Finley passed the gavel to Vice Chair Erteschik.
Finley left the meeting at 6:14 p.m., 13 members present.
• April 2026 Statistics: 0 structure fires; 0 wildland/brush fires; 3 nuisance fires; 2 cooking fires; 16 activated alarms (no fire); 160 medical emergencies; 2 motor vehicle collisions involving a pedestrian; 1 vehicle crash; 0 mountain rescues; 1 ocean rescue; and 2 hazardous material incidents.
• May 2026 Safety Tip: Wildfire prevention and preparedness. Hawaiʻi is entering a period of increased wildfire risk due to dry conditions, tall grass, and shifting winds. Tips include clearing dry brush and vegetation around homes, never parking on dry grass, and avoiding spark-generating activities during dry/hot/windy weather.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tb2fMIqAm2BmfwyyX9piWkDeVG-GXf6Q/view?usp=drive_link
Honolulu Police Department (HPD) – [0:11:14]: Lieutenant Omura and Major Okamoto provided April 2026 statistics and responses to questions asked in the previous meeting:
• April 2026 Statistics: 2 robberies; 6 burglaries; 126 thefts; 8 unauthorized entry motor vehicles; 38 assaults; 14 sex crimes; 0 bike/skateboard on sidewalk citations; 19 speeding citations; 1,556 parking citations; 2 loud muffler citations; 38 park closure citations/16 arrests; 4,160 total calls for service; and 6 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:12:48]
1. Skateboard and Bicycle Ordinance Clarification: Major Okamoto reported that the governing ordinance is Revised Ordinance 15-4.6 (Use of Bicycles, Skateboards, Roller Skates, and Similar Devices Restricted). Within the entire Waikīkī peninsula including the Ala Wai, use of these devices on sidewalks and roadways is prohibited. The only permissible location is within a crosswalk.
2. Bus Parking at Kapahulu: Major Okamoto reported that HPD’s administrative officer contacted Oʻahu Transit Service (OTS) supervisors regarding buses blocking crosswalks on Kapahulu Avenue near the Honolulu Zoo, and that operators have been made aware and have modified their parking behavior.
3. Fort DeRussy Enforcement Update: Major Okamoto reported two consecutive Fridays of enforcement action at Fort DeRussy Beach Park in partnership with state law enforcement, resulting in numerous arrests and citations. The homeless population in that area has been drastically reduced, with only one or two empty tents observed at last count. A point-in-time homeless count along Kalākaua Avenue recorded a 91% reduction since September 2022, from 111 individuals to 10.
4. Moped Helmet Enforcement: Major Okamoto noted that flyers regarding the moped helmet law were distributed to all moped rental companies in the Waikīkī area. Warnings have been issued for several days and will transition to citations.
5. Cartright Road Fire Access Concern: Henski raised concerns about illegal parking at a property on Cartright Road that is obstructing fire access. Per a fire inspector, the property is infringing on the road and the owner has been notified. Major Okamoto committed to investigating and reporting back.
6. Loud Muffler Enforcement: Daniel Jacob expressed concern that loud muffler citations dropped from 7 to 2 this month, noting historical levels of 30 citations per month. Major Okamoto acknowledged the anomaly, attributed it to other enforcement priorities, and committed to stronger numbers next month, reaffirming that loud muffler enforcement remains a priority.
7. Reproduced and Amplified Music on Kalākaua: A resident asked whether officers are citing street performers using reproduced music along Kalākaua Avenue. Major Okamoto confirmed HPD has been citing performers for amplified music violations and has applied sit-lie ordinances creatively where applicable.
8. Cosmetic Store Aggressive Solicitation: Filek and Henski described aggressive solicitation practices by salespeople from a cosmetics store at the corner of Kalākaua and Kapahulu, noting employees follow residents and pressure them to accept products. John Deutzman identified the practice as associated with a nationwide fraudulent operation under investigation by the state attorney general. Major Okamoto stated he would look into whether it constitutes a peddling infraction.
9. Kapahulu Fire Station Noise Enforcement: Katherine Li noted the corner of Kapahulu in front of the fire station is a “launching site” for heavily modified mufflers on motorcycles and electric bikes, particularly late at night on weekends, and asked whether enforcement could be stationed there.
10. Fort DeRussy Enforcement Frequency: Serota commended HPD’s enforcement efforts at Fort DeRussy and asked about future frequency. Major Okamoto stated HPD plans to continue follow-up enforcement—potentially at lower intensity—to change the culture in the area and continue addressing homelessness.
11. Fire Dancing at Kapiʻolani Park: Serota asked about the legal status of fire dancing at Kapiʻolani Park near the Natatorium, noting performers have been cited and claim First Amendment protections for a culturally significant practice. Major Okamoto stated there may be an open flame administrative rule applicable on state land and committed to researching and reporting back next month.
12. HPD Chief Selection Process: Gregory Misakian asked whether HPD officers have a formal mechanism to provide input on the police chief selection process and whether any public forums are scheduled. Major Okamoto stated he is not involved in the process and is not aware of any current mechanism for officers to formally opine, though there may be a televised public forum.
13. Homeless Disruption at Kūhiō Bus Stop: DJ described severe and ongoing disruption from a homeless individual with substance abuse issues who regularly occupies the bus stop at 2420 Kūhiō Avenue, across from the Pacific Monarch Hotel. The individual’s behavior—including screaming, cursing, and unsanitary acts—disrupts sleep and remote work for neighbors. Despite repeated police calls, he returns. Major Okamoto confirmed there is an ordinance against sleeping at a bus stop and committed to looking into outreach and cleanup operations at that location.
Board of Water Supply (BWS) – [0:32:11]: No representative present
IV. CITIZENS CONCERNS NOT COVERED IN REGULAR AGENDA – [0:32:20]
Congressional Candidate – [0:32:44]: Representative Della Au Belatti introduced herself as a candidate for Congress and announced a community town hall dinner for the following Monday at Ala Wai Elementary School in the University/Ala Wai/Waikīkī area.
City Council Candidate – [0:33:40]: Jason Liang introduced himself as a candidate for City Council, noting six years of service with the City and County Budget and Fiscal Services. He offered to speak with attendees after the meeting and had literature available.
Waikīkī District 24 Candidate – [0:34:06]: Bulla Eastman introduced himself as a candidate for Waikīkī District No. 24.
City Council District 4 Candidate – [0:34:23]: Tara Malia Gregory introduced herself as a candidate for City Council District 4 and spoke about emergency preparedness, citing the Kona Low storms as an example of the community’s recurring inability to coordinate in advance. She highlighted an emergency response app and that her group launched within 12–48 hours of the storms, establishing four distribution hubs across Oʻahu.
Meeting Decorum Guidance – [0:36:59]: Patrick Smith, Chair of the Neighborhood Commission, addressed board members’ earlier request for guidance on handling dilatory behavior. He advised the board that speakers must be permitted their two minutes but must speak to the agenda item; board members may call a point of order when speakers go off-topic, which the chair must then rule upon.
Representative Re-election – [0:38:28]: Representative Adrian Tam briefly introduced himself and announced he is running for re-election.
Ala Wai Canal Ferry Resolution Proposal – [0:38:56]: Laura Ruby proposed a resolution for an inexpensive ferry conveyance across the Ala Wai Canal to serve pedestrians, bicyclists, and individuals with disabilities, compatible with the Holo Pass. She characterized it as complementary to any bridge proposal. She noted she had already submitted a draft to Chair Finley. Acting Chair Erteschik recommended she circulate the draft to all board members.
Sunshine Law Compliance Concern – [0:43:35]: Gregory Misakian expressed concern that the board is not adhering to the Neighborhood Plan and the Sunshine Law. He referenced an OIP email sent to NCO the prior day regarding the Sub District 2 vote and cited another board’s experience earlier that day in which actions taken without public input had to be reversed at a future meeting.
Kūhiō Beach Surf Stand Permits and Canoes – [0:46:28]: Amy Ammen raised transparency concerns about two surf beach boy stands near the Duke statue by the showers at Kūhiō Beach, asking how much the operators are paying for permits and whether pre-setting umbrellas and chairs (which impedes beach access) is legally permitted. She also questioned the permanent placement of two canoes on the beach, asking whether it is authorized under their permit.
V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS – FINAL LEGISLATIVE REPORT – [0:49:03]
2026 Legislative Report Update – [0:49:10]: Anderson reported that during the 2026 legislative session, the board voted to support or oppose 12 different bills and collectively submitted 13 pieces of testimony. No bills the board was tracking passed final reading. Erteschik added that Senate Concurrent Resolution 58, relating to the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor towing citation structure, did pass. The board had previously written to Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) supporting residents’ concerns about cars being towed without warning, and community advocates carried that issue to the legislature. Both Anderson and Erteschik noted that despite individual bill outcomes, the board’s collective voice was heard throughout the session.
Leadership Reorganization of the Public Safety and Civil Defense Committee – [0:51:42]: [0:52:01] – Huycke MOVED and Nordhal SECONDED to have Jillian Anderson, currently serving as Chair of the Public Safety and Civil Defense Committee, become a member, and that Huycke, as current member, would become the new Chair. Discussion followed:
1. Motion Clarification: Henski questioned what the motion involves with. Anderson clarified that the purpose of this agenda item is to propose the formation of a legislative committee and she will chair the proposed new committee and have Huycke Chair the Public Safety Committee which requires a board vote.
2. Conference Committee Outreach: Gregory Misakian asked whether any bills made it to conference committee and whether additional outreach was conducted. Anderson confirmed two bills reached conference: House Bill (HB) 1588 (noise pilot program for detecting noise and issuing citations) and a bill requiring the Office on Homelessness to submit annual reports to the legislature. She emailed all conference committee members during that week to notify them of the board’s position on both bills.
3. Continued Advocacy Importance: Gregory Misakian encouraged the board and public to continue reaching out to legislators even after bills reach conference, noting that persistent engagement can produce results. He shared that his own letter to senators yielded five “no” votes and one “with reservations” on a nomination with only one day’s notice.
4. Sunshine Law Concern: Gregory Misakian raised concern that the reorganization and the formation of a new legislative committee may have been pre-discussed by more than two board members prior to the meeting, which would be a Sunshine Law concern. Acting Chair Erteschik responded that the motion is properly noticed on the agenda and that any standing committee formed is subject to the Sunshine Law as a matter of course; he did not see a violation.
[0:59:22] – Hearing no further discussion, the board conducted a roll call vote; the motion WAS ADOPTED; 13-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Serota, Smith, and Wiencek; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None).
Formation of the 2027 State and City Legislation Engagement Committee – [1:00:09]: Anderson proposed forming a dedicated, standing legislative engagement committee to address the volume of legislation that consumes board meeting time. The committee would monitor city council activity year-round, develop ideas for state legislators prior to session, bring positions back to the full board for testimony, and allow the board’s voice to be heard beyond monthly meetings. She confirmed meetings would be subject to the Sunshine Law with proper public notice.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:01:29]
1. Public Notification Inquiry: Ah Moo asked Anderson whether the public would be informed about the committee’s work and meetings. Anderson confirmed that all committee meetings would be conducted under the Sunshine Law with proper public notice and would be open to public participation.
2. Legislative Priorities and Professional Letterhead: John Deutzman supported the proposal but suggested the committee focus on two or three key legislative priorities per session rather than tracking hundreds of bills. He also recommended the board develop a professional letterhead for all legislative correspondence, noting that credible-looking communications receive more attention from legislators. Henski asked Deutzman if he would design the letterhead. Deutzman declined.
3. Public Access to Committee Meetings: Erteschik clarified that because the committee would be subject to the Sunshine Law, its meetings would be open to the public with proper notice, meaning residents like Deutzman could participate and provide input regardless of whether they are formal committee members. He stated the intent was always for the committee to reflect ideas and concerns from the community at large, not the exclusive work of one or two board members.
4. Expression of Support for Anderson: A resident expressing strong support and commending Anderson’s dedication and integrity in representing the Waikīkī community throughout the legislative session.
5. Committee Membership Proposal: Anderson proposed volunteering to chair the committee and opening membership to other board members and interested members of the public.
[1:06:24] – Nordahl MOVED and Henski SECONDED to form the 2027 State and City Legislation Engagement Committee. Discussion followed.
[1:06:51] – Wiencek MOVED and Nordahl SECONDED to amend the motion to have Anderson as Chair, with Huycke and Erteschik as members. Hearing no objections, the motion WAS adopted; 13-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Serota, Smith, and Wiencek; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:07:28]
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:08:02]
1. Second Amendment: Huycke suggested to amend the motion to have Wiencek as a committee member. Henski noted the committee should be open to the public, Wiencek already served, and suggested to focus on the vote first. Anderson suggested to have the committee be establish at tonight’s meeting and at the first meeting vote on members. Acting Chair Erteschik advised keeping initial membership to the three named members and revisiting to add more members at the first meeting.
2. Committee Naming Concern: Gregory Misakian argued that the committee’s name “2027 State and City Legislation Engagement Committee” would mislead the general public into thinking the committee would only be established in 2027, rather than immediately, and expressed confidence OIP would agree. Acting Chair Erteschik disagreed, stating the “2027” refers to the upcoming legislative session and is not misleading. Henski suggested adding the “2026/2027” to the wording of the motion. Acting Chair Erteschik suggested to have Misakian report to OIP.
[1:13:24] – Hearing no further discussion and objections, the motion WAS adopted with amendments; 13-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Serota, Smith, and Wiencek; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None) – [1:13:29]
VI. OAHʻU SCHEDULE OF MAJOR PARADES AND STREET EVENTS – [1:13:50]
• Saturday, May 23, 2026, 1:30 p.m. – Midnight: Kanikapila Festival
• Friday, June 5, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run
• Friday, June 12, 2026, 5:30 p.m. – Midnight: 43rd Annual Pan Pacific Hoʻolaulea
• Saturday, June 13, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: King Kamehameha Floral Parade
• Sunday, June 14, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.: 43rd Annual Pan Pacific Parade
VII. APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENSE – [1:14:28]: No applications
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:14:41]
1. Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi: A resident noted that the Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi event on Memorial Day (Monday, May 25, 2026) was not included on the May 2026 agenda. Ah Moo noted that the event was on last month’s agenda. Acting Chair Erteschik suggested it may have been excluded because it is held at Magic Island, which falls within the Ala Moana Neighborhood Board’s jurisdiction rather than Waikīkī’s.
VIII. ELECTED OFFICIALS OR OFFICIALS’ REPRESENTATIVES – [1:16:22]
Mayor’s Representative – [1:16:40]: Director Nola Miyasaki provided her report and highlighted the following: the city continues recovery from the Kona Low storms with cleanup ongoing; the Mayor’s TownHalls have been canceled while the administration focuses on storm response; the Honolulu Zoo earned the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) accreditation; and Bloomberg Philanthropies awarded the city $50,000 to fund youth-led climate projects for residents aged 15–24. Miyasaki also introduced a special guest, Department Transportation Services (DTS) Director Roger Morton, to address transportation questions raised at the April 2026 meeting. Director Morton provided updates regarding the following: DTS is open to investigating moped parking requests at specific locations. Interested parties may email Director Morton. DTS retired the original city bus app because the original developer retired and the app required American Disability Act (ADA) mobile standards upgrades. Multiple private apps use DTS public data and are available, including the Hea – The Bus app available on the Apple App Store. The federally required Section 106 Historic Preservation Act consultation has been completed. The final National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) document is under federal review. DTS is using a design-build process with three tentatively qualified contractors. Federally recognized consulting parties will be invited to participate in the review of aesthetics and community values.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:25:50]
1. Shade Request for Bridge: Wiencek urged that the final bridge design include sufficient shade, noting the structure would be extremely hot during summer without it and that even modest shade makes a significant difference for users.
2. Kapahulu Avenue Crosswalk Safety: Nordahl raised ongoing safety concerns about five crosswalks on Kapahulu Avenue near the Honolulu Zoo, noting a driver had honked at him while he was in the crosswalk. He asked about the feasibility of lights at the Lemon Road crosswalk and noted a median sign has been knocked over and the “Crosswalks Ahead” signage now reads only “Ahead.” Morton stated his team would follow up.
3. Kūhiō Avenue Left Turn Arrows: Huycke asked about installing left turn arrows for Eʻwa-bound traffic on Kūhiō Avenue, noting that without them, drivers block lanes or make dangerous movements into bus lanes. Morton confirmed DTS has already implemented two changes and is studying at least two additional intersections, though no final determination has been made. Smith noted that despite repeatedly requesting information on the study they still haven’t received any information. Morton acknowledged ongoing traffic engineering criteria must be met and that no final determination has been made. Ah Moo expressed concern that the study conducted was only one week long and noted they had submitted videos and photographs documenting drivers entering bus lanes due to the lack of left turn signals. She emphasized that congestion on Kūhiō deters residents and local visitors from entering Waikīkī.
4. Ala Wai Boulevard Speed Reduction: Amy Ammen requested speed humps on Ala Wai Boulevard near the four lane merger to improve safety for bicycle commuters. Morton noted speed humps generate noise and are avoided near residential areas. Morton stated DTS is planning to lower the speed limit on Ala Wai Boulevard from 35 to 25 mph as a less disruptive alternative.
5. Crosswalk Sign Request at Homer Road: Serota asked about the process for requesting a crosswalk warning sign at Homer Road and Ala Moana Boulevard, noting tourists frequently fail to stop. Morton stated it may be a state intersection and invited Serota to email him directly.
6. Park Area Requirements for Bridge: Laura Ruby asked about the federal Section 4(f) requirement for equal park acreage mitigation on both sides of the canal, how much the design build three nominees are getting for their input and expressed interest in being considered as a federally recognized consulting party for the bridge design review. Morton stated the Section 4(f) process was completed in coordination with the Department of Parks and Recreation and that mitigations will be followed through during construction. Morton explained the stipend is intended to enable thorough, high-quality design proposals rather than quick bids, noting it represents a small portion of the overall project cost and results in a better product for the community.
7. Bridge Costs, Community Design Preferences, and Biki Bikes: Gregory Misakian asked for a current bridge cost estimate given inflation, noted that he testified in opposition to several bills at the state legislature this session that would have loosened environmental assessment report requirements in the Waikīkī Special District, cost for the stipends, why type of bridge is being looked at, and asked for an update on Biki Bikes. Morton stated he has no updated cost figures beyond the budget that they have put in. On Biki, Morton explained the system requires 1,300–1,400 bikes to be viable but currently has only about 650 due to reduced Japanese visitor returns (approximately 50% of pre-COVID levels) and the destruction of over 300 bikes by a serial vandal. DTS is committing approximately $1 million in climate resiliency funding and seeking federal funding to stabilize the program, with announcements expected within weeks.
Council Chair Tommy Waters – [1:49:01]: Council Chair Tommy Waters provided his report and highlighted the following: he shared his background; he highlighted collaborative achievements with the board, including the $1 million Hilton Grand Vacations donation to Waikīkī, the Safe and Sound initiative, and proposed senior housing on 1615 Ala Wai; portable camera legislation being co-developed with Major Okamoto; street performer enforcement progress; police chief selection (final vote scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, 2026); public may submit letters to the Police Commission; disaster preparedness and emergency operations review; the upcoming repair of the Waikīkī beach bathroom pump; and full council meeting the next day.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:59:16]
1. Building Energy Benchmarking Report: A board member raised concerns from condominium board presidents about a mandatory energy benchmarking report (related to Bill 60) for buildings 25,000 sq ft or more, with a Tuesday, June 30, 2026 deadline. Concerns include the report’s cost, a perceived lack of reward for buildings that have already made efficiency upgrades, and uncertainty about whether compliance is mandatory. Waters agreed to look into the mandatory vs. voluntary nature of the requirement and noted the mayor’s intent is to identify efficiency opportunities, not to penalize efficient buildings.
2. Budget, Property Tax, and Floor Area Ratio: Wiencek commended the city’s efforts to hold down property taxes and expressed support for Resolution 2639, which would increase the floor area ratio for downtown development to help address the affordable housing crisis. Waters noted the floor area ratio-for Waikīkī is currently at one, limiting redevelopment, and suggested this may be a topic worth discussing at a future board meeting.
3. Broken Bathroom and Disaster Preparedness: Tim Garry noted the Waikīkī beach bathroom has gone without meaningful repair for three years and urged continued prioritization of storm preparedness and CAT5-resistant emergency shelters, noting none currently exist on the island. Waters confirmed the pump replacement is in progress and indicated hearings are ongoing to review the storm response, including the delayed activation of the Emergency Operations Center on the night of the flooding.
4. Camera Surveillance Technology and Due Diligence: Patrick Smith raised concerns about certain flat-panel camera technology installed in the area with a troubled reputation on the mainland and urged the city to conduct thorough due diligence on any camera vendor before finalizing contracts.
5. Biki Bike Station Rust Issues: Gregory Misakian noted visible rust deterioration at multiple Biki docking stations—including at kiosk panels and docking ports—and asked for a follow-up from DTS or the Mayor’s office.
6. Mayor Townhall: Gregory Misakian asked if the Mayor Townhall will be rescheduled. Waters is unable to provide an answer.
7. Police Chief Selection and Televised Forum: Gregory Misakian asked Waters for his thoughts on the police chief finalists. Waters noted he met all six original finalists and considers all three remaining candidates qualified, but deferred the selection to the Police Commission. Nate Serota added that Public Broadcasting Services (PBS) Insights will broadcast a 90-minute panel on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Senator Sharon Moriwaki’s Representative – [2:14:35]: Alexander Ozawa provided his report and highlighted the following: the legislature concluded session with 268 bills passed, most still awaiting the governor’s action by the July 15, 2026 deadline. During the interim, the senator’s office will focus on constituent concerns, legislative research, and budget proposals for the next session.
Representative Adrian Tam – [2:15:51]: Representative Adrian Tam provided his report and highlighted the following: a full legislative bill digest will be distributed district-wide. Department of Education (DOE) is in the very early stages of discussing possible teacher or affordable housing at Jefferson Elementary School; community meetings are expected, similar to those held in Mililani. Capital Improvement Project (CIP) and Grants in Aid (GIA) funding secured includes approximately $2.1–2.5 million for Ala Wai debris management, $7 million for Waikīkī beach restoration, and capital funds for Jefferson Elementary and Ala Wai Elementary. Grant funding was also secured for the Waikīkī Business Improvement District and Waikīkī Community Center. House Bill (HB) 2505 (assisted community treatment—allowing Institute for Human Services (IHS) to petition courts for court-mandated mental health treatment) passed.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:18:48]
1. Senate Bill (SB) 2367 Passage Confirmation: Henski asked Representative Tam whether Senate Bill (SB) 2367—the bill requiring DLNR to hold open public meetings on the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor master plan—had passed. Representative Tam checked his materials and confirmed it did pass.
2. HomeAid and Rail PR Commercial Funding: Tim Garry asked Representative Tam to investigate the funding source for PR commercials run by HomeAid (the rail contractor), noting they began airing around the time the state auditor released a critical interim report. Representative Tam stated he would investigate and is awaiting the full audit.
3. Condominium Consumer Protection Legislation: Gregory Misakian expressed interest in working with Representative Tam’s office on condominium consumer protection legislation for 2027, citing a $650,000 embezzlement case involving a community manager. Representative Tam stated his office is open to community members who wish to work on legislation.
Governor’s Representative – [2:24:58]: Yvonne Hunter provided her report and noted the session concluded with preservation of tax cuts, balanced against trade-offs including solar tax credit reductions—a difficult but necessary balancing of affordability with other programs. She offered to relay any concerns to Governor Green.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:26:01]
1. Real Estate Commission Nomination: Gregory Misakian asked about the status of a Real Estate Commission nominee who received five Senate “no” votes and one “with reservations” vote, questioning whether the governor can still act on the nomination after Senate consideration. Hunter indicated she did not know the process and offered to follow up separately.
IX. WAIKĪKĪ IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (WIA) – [2:27:31]:
Acting Chair Erteschik noted that WIA President Rick Egged was not in attendance. This item was presented by Trevor Abarza, President of the Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID).
X. NEW BOARD BUSINESS – [2:27:32]
Waikīkī Business Improvement District (WBID) / Safe and Sound Update – [2:27:46]: Trevor Abarza, WBID President, provided an update on the Safe and Sound Waikīkī initiative and current WBID activities, highlighting the following:
• Drone Surveillance Program: Four properties are signed up to host drones—Sheraton Waikīkī, Hyatt, Waikīkī Grand, and Hilton Hawaiian Village (awaiting signed contract). Once Hilton signs, the four zones will cover the entire Waikīkī peninsula. The state Department of Law Enforcement will monitor the drones in partnership with HPD District 6.
• Street Performer Enforcement: WBID is working closely with Council Chair Waters’ office on a bill to crack down on unpermitted street performers along Waikīkī’s main corridors.
• St. Augustine Church Partnership: WBID enrolled St. Augustine Church in its ambassador/private security program to monitor for trespassing and bad behavior at homeless feedings and overnight near the site, improving coordination where previously there was none.
• Homeless Point-in-Time Count Results: A biannual count conducted at 3:00 a.m. with the University of Hawaiʻi School of Urban Planning found approximately 201 individuals across the broader Waikīkī geographic area (including Fort DeRussy, Ala Moana Park, and Kapiʻolani Park), compared to 251 in September 2022—a 25% reduction since Safe and Sound began. In the urban core, the reduction from 111 individuals to 10.
• Migration Pattern and Response: A 171% increase in homelessness was observed near Fort DeRussy, Hilton Hawaiian Village, and surrounding residential areas, driven by displacement from the urban core. WBID plans to donate All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) to HPD District 6 for a new four-officer proactive policing team.
• Trash Can Expansion: 100 additional trash cans were purchased for Kalākaua and Kūhiō Avenues, with plans for further expansion to side streets.
• Kūhiō Beach Park Improvements: The $1 million donation from Hilton Grand Vacations is in the permitting process, targeting completion by November 2026. Planned improvements include new turf, lighting, and interactive art installations designed with the City’s Museum of Culture and Arts to activate areas previously run with crime.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:42:00]
1. WBID Event: Abarza announced an annual meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Sky Waikīkī. Major Okimoto and some stakeholders will be attend the event.
6. Homeless Migration to Residential Areas: Gregory Misakian shared firsthand observations of drug use and sleeping at the King Kalākaua Parklet near his building and offered to provide Abarza with photos and strategic location information to assist in planning. In response to the broader residential migration concern, Abarza described a private property trespass program currently offered to small businesses—such as ABC Stores and Denny’s—where WBID acts as a fee-for-service private security partner conducting spot checks, and proposed extending a similar model to HOAs and residential buildings at a reasonable rate.
7. ATV Street Legality: Gregory Misakian asked whether the planned ATVs for HPD are street legal. Abarza stated he believes they are dual-use (street and beach/park) and have registration for street use, but deferred to HPD on the specific legal authority.
8. Ambassador Role and Sit-Lie Enforcement: Katherine Li noted that homeless individuals are regularly observed lying on bus stop benches while WBID ambassadors pass by without intervening and asked whether ambassadors are expected to act on sit-lie violations. Abarza clarified that WBID has two tiers of ambassadors: sweepers and power washers, and elevated safety ambassadors who do engage with violators and report non-compliance. He stated the elevated ambassadors achieve approximately a 90% compliance rate when asking individuals to move, and encouraged the resident to call the WBID office directly if they observe an ambassador failing to act, as enforcement is a core part of every ambassador’s role.
9.
XI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – [2:53:26]
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 Meeting Minutes – [2:53:30]: [2:53:45] – Hearing no corrections or objections The Tuesday, April 14, 2026 meeting minutes WAS adopted as written; 13-0-0 (AYE: Ah Moo, Anderson, Nordahl, D’Orazio, Erteschik, Filek, Henski, Huycke, Daniel Jacob, Ken Jacob, Serota, Smith, and Wiencek; NAY: None; ABSTAIN: None)
XII. REPORTS – [2:53:50]
Sub District 1 Report – Merz – [2:53:51]: Member Merz was absent from the meeting
Sub District 2 Report – Anderson – [2:53:52]: No report.
Sub District 3 Report – Henski – [2:53:54]: No report.
Chair Report – [2:53:55]: No report.
XIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:53:58]
Next Meeting – The next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Waikīkī Community Center, 310 Paoakalani Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815.
XIV. ADJOURNMENT – [2:54:04]: Acting Chair Erteschik adjourned the meeting at 9:00.
Submitted by: Anson Wu, Neighborhood Assistant, NCO
Reviewed by: Lindon Valenciano, NCO
Finalized by:
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