Regular Meeting October 14, 1996
The Waimanalo Neighborhood Board met on October 14, 1996 at the Waimanalo School and Public Library. Chair Field brought the meeting to order at 7:32 pm.
Members Present: Phillip Ellsworth, Albert Lewis, Ben Kama, Jr., Chanelle Simmons-Sabey, Gregory Field, John Kekawa, Dennis Kanahele, Wilson Ho.
Members Absent: Jane Gouveia-Simpson, Rose Marie Gooding, Nancy Glover, Steven Tayama, Priscilla Ho,
Treasurer's Report: Operating Account expenses of $120.93 with balance of $1,067.33 and Publicity Account balance unchanged at $587.
Public Input
Honolulu Fire Department: Captain Herb Knudsen reported 28 alarms, 2 structure fires and 7 rubbish fires. He commented people who burn trash must realize the smoke disturbs neighbors and may pose a health threat, particularly if plastics are burned. The next CPR class will be December 12, 9 to 11 am at the Health Center.
Honolulu Police Department: Officer Ellen Nishiyama reported crime stats (see page 2). Thefts at beaches are up over last month. She commented that 3 officers are assigned to Waimanalo, and if busy, sick, on vacation, an officer from Kailua, Kaneohe or Kahuku will assist.
Public Officials:
Representative Eve Anderson: Noted that the Queens Beach Draft Environmental impact Statement has been published.
Councilmember John Henry Felix: Isa Tai reported the water rescue craft for Waimanalo is slated to arrive in early spring `97. The City is looking for non-profits to submit proposals to manage the 19 acre former Job Corps site in Koko Head. Councilmember Felix met with DLU director Onishi, community members and Unisyn staff on the Conditional and Special Use Permits that Unisyn must apply for from DLU.
Waimanalo Homestead Association president Paul Richards requested investigation of (1) a bus stop bay at Kalanianaole Hwy. in front of the Homestead Meeting House, and (2) a drainage solution to alleviate ponding on the Highway near the entrance to the quarry.
Education and Recreation:
Library: Chair Field read librarian report: Friends of Waimanalo donated a laminator; T-shirts to identify library staff; library has Internet access; Friends of Waimanalo is conducting a membership drive.
Parks and Recreation: Eric Bunyan recognized contribution of Solomon Kealoha who has diligently painted over graffiti at the park.
Residents' Concerns:
Playground: Resident L. Stratton spoke of need for playground structure and recommended Leathers and Co. which has done similar community projects on neighbor islands.
Bank of America: Branch manager Charles Son reported as of Oct 26 all banking staff will move from Waimanalo branch to Kailua branch. Several board members expressed disappointment over BOA's departure, and compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act.
Committee Reports:
Chair Field circulated a committee sign up sheet.
Unfinished Business:
Unisyn Biowaste Technology: Status of Permits: Unisyn's Ima Sanz reported that permit process was protracted because DLU was uncertain of what permit was needed. Unisyn will apply for CUP Type 2 and SUP permits within a month. Both permits require Public Hearings. Regarding the DOH permits, board member requested DOH provide simple explanation of process for lay persons. Field distributed 6 copies of DOH permit to interested parties.
New Business:
Route 77 reduction in Service: No residents were present to comment on planned reduction.
Department of Transportation Highway Widening and Realignment Study: Chair Field reported on meeting with DOT director Kazu Hyashida who stated that DOT was willing to listen to the community's wishes, and will not widen the highway if it is not wanted. Field distributed a survey prepared by DOT to gauge community sentiments on widening, realignment and improvements. After discussion, questions were modified. Ho moved, Kanahele seconded to approve modified survey. Motion carried 8-0.
Street Lights in Agriculture District: Glenn Miyashiro of the Waimanalo Agriculture Association submitted a list of intersections recommended for streetlights in an effort to deter crime and prevent accidents. Referred to Transportation Committee.
The next meeting of the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board will be November 4, 1996, 7:30 pm, at the Waimanalo School and Public Library.
[This condensed minutes is partially funded by the Waimanalo Neighborhood Board's Publicity Account]