Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting MAY 2026 Minutes

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Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting MAY 2026 Minutes
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NEXT MEETING - Click here to read next meeting agenda scheduled for 4/9/2026.

With Permission / Courtesy of: City and County of Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office

DIAMOND HEAD - KAPAHULU - ST. LOUIS HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 5

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M.
ALA WAI GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE BALLROOM
404 KAPAHULU AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96815
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX

Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6hVfpgiH0s&list=PLfqRwVpRroolsFSNpDzklm59N89al2XyQ

Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1wezRyARsyx1JlCFN56ejBuKud14s8u5P

1. CALL TO ORDER [0:00:00]: Chair Winston Welch called the meeting to order at 6:07 p.m.

2. ROLL CALL [0:00:16]: Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi conducted roll call. Quorum was established with 9 members present. This 15-member board requires eight (8) members to establish a quorum and take official Board action.

Board Members Present: Julia Allen, Rafia Hasina, Angie Knight (Treasurer joined at 6:09 p.m.), Michelle Matson (joined at 6:09 p.m.), Anthony Miranda, Samo Rozman, Laura St. Denis, Arleen Velasco (Vice Chair), Chad Wasden (joined late), Bruce Wong, Linda Wong, and Winston Welch (Chair).

Board Members Absent: Margaret Murchie, Kendric Wong, and Ronan Witherwax.

Guests: Captain Joshua Chase (Honolulu Fire Department); Lieutenant Cyrus Hanuna and Leonard Nishimura (Honolulu Police Department); Kathleen Pahinui (Board of Water Supply); Olivia Storms (Diamond Head State Monument); Demi Duran (American Heart Association); Mark Garrity and Emily Cristobal (Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization); Janet Meinke-Lau (SSFM International); Department of Community Services (DCS) Director Anton Krucky and Department of Transportation Services (DTS) Director Roger Morton (Mayor Blangiardi); Council Chair Tommy Waters; Kylie Tokujo (Councilmember Nishimoto); Ryan Aguilar (Governor Green); Senator Les Ihara, Jr.; Representative Tina Nakada Grandinetti; Patrick Smith (Neighborhood Commission Chair); Amy Brown, Andrew Phomsouvanh, Laura Ruby, Noela, Daisy Murai, Ron Reddick, Della Au Belatti, Jason Liang, Franklin Chung, and Wayne Swan (Residents/Guests); Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Note: Names may not be included if not legible or identified. About 40 participants joined the meeting.

3. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS [0:02:19]

Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) [0:02:30]: Captain Chase shared the April 2026 statistics, including 1 nuisance fire, 5 activated alarms, 0 structural fires, 59 medical emergencies, 1 mountain rescue, 2 ocean rescues, and 2 hazmat incidents. The wildfire prevention tip was to clear dry vegetation around the home, avoid parking on dry grass or near hot exhaust, avoid activities that create sparks or heat during dry, hot, and windy weather, and monitor weather and fire conditions. Should you have questions, please email HFDNHB@honolulu.gov.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19z6q4TQIsZiJdkZf11EA1GCbT1XxkUnH/view

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:03:25]:
1. Vegetation Management with Goats and Sheep: Chair Welch cited a newspaper article on using goats and sheep for brush clearing and asked HFD to explore the idea with Firewise Hawaii and the City for areas, including Diamond Head.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- District 6 (Waikiki/Kapiolani Park/Diamond Head) [0:04:22]: Lieutenant Hanuna shared the April 2026 statistics for HPD District 6, noting decreases in most categories compared to March, including 2 robberies, 126 thefts, 8 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV), 38 assaults, 1,556 parking citations, 4,160 total calls for service, and 6 operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant (OVUII) arrests. Burglaries increased to 6 and sex crimes to 14. Speeding citations rose to 19, while bike/skateboard citations and warnings remained at 0. Park closure citations decreased to 36, with 16 arrests.
• Statistics (April 2026): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sGwAnz5EVCmOxfYbgO_1xh1jU1dWlmBm/view

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:05:54]:
1. Crime Statistics Online: Member Linda Wong requested a copy of the statistics. HPD confirmed that a copy had been placed at the check-in table.
2. Monk Seal at Kaimana Beach: Vice Chair Velasco reported difficulty reaching HPD about a monk seal pup at Kaimana Beach. HPD clarified the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is the lead agency.
3. Off-Leash Dogs in Kapahulu/Diamond Head Area: Amy Brown reported large, off-leash dogs in parks, and asked what HPD can do. Lieutenant Hanuna said District 6 conducts morning checks at parks.

Secretary Matson and Treasurer Knight joined the meeting at 6:09 p.m.; 11 members present.

Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- District 7 (Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights/East Honolulu) [0:09:41]: Lieutenant Nishimura reported April 2026 statistics, including 2 motor vehicle thefts, 6 burglaries, 21 thefts, 6 UEMV, and 5,614 total calls for service. Lieutenant Nishimura provided a hurricane preparedness safety tip, noting that June through November is hurricane season. He advised residents to prepare emergency kits, identify evacuation routes, and determine whether their area is susceptible to flooding.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:11:05]:
1. Parking and Traffic Enforcement in St. Louis Heights: Andrew Phomsouvanh raised concerns about HPD increasing enforcement of parking violations and blocked driveways in St. Louis Heights, particularly at Oswald Street and St. Louis Drive. Lieutenant Nishimura confirmed prior reports and will check on these concerns.
2. Illegal Parking: Laura Ruby raised concerns about illegal parking in the area of Kuilei and Waiaka. Lieutenant Nishimura confirmed a prior complaint and noted HPD spoke with a site representative.
3. Moped Parking: Noela reported mopeds parked illegally at Makalei Beach Park in violation of posted signs and requested more police enforcement. Lieutenant Nishimura agreed to dispatch officers to the park.

4. PUBLIC INTEREST REPORTS AND EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS [0:17:12]

Board of Water Supply (BWS) [0:17:12]: Kathleen Pahinui reported that BWS advised residents to prepare for hurricane season by storing at least two weeks of water and food, including for pets, and noted free emergency water bags remain available. She said work continues on the Monsarrat water line, with a problematic plate removed, and invited residents to contact her with concerns. BWS sent Chair Welch a letter regarding security fencing at the Kaimuki Pump Station. She reported Diamond Head Reservoir fencing project is being evaluated for drought-tolerant plants. Pahinui also confirmed DPR's interest in a joint tree-planting initiative, with a forthcoming proposal to management.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:19:56]:
1. Drought Status and Soil Saturation: Treasurer Knight asked about drought conditions heading into hurricane season. Pahinui confirmed no current drought, though recent rainfall largely ran off due to saturated soil. Lake Wilson is at low capacity. Pahinui encouraged water conservation and noted conditions are improving.
2. Red Hill Litigation Update: Vice Chair Velasco asked for a Red Hill update. Pahinui confirmed litigation is ongoing, BWS maintains its position, and BWS Chief Engineer Ernie Lau traveled to Washington, D.C. with a follow-up visit planned.
3. Gondola Legislation: Daisy Murai congratulated Pahinui and her community on the passage of legislation prohibiting tramways and gondolas in the State of Hawaii. Pahinui noted DPP is still reviewing the underlying permit and expressed optimism that the new law would render it moot.

Kapiolani Community College (KCC) [0:23:10]: No report.

Diamond Head State Monument [0:23:19]: Olivia Storms, Diamond Head Interpretive Center Coordinator, reported on the National Day of Play, a Saturday community event for children from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. featuring activities from about 20 local organizations, games, educational activities, and free shave ice prizes (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ty_YW_e5QO0pSYKNINs-QR8Wws5baY9m/view). She also highlighted volunteer opportunities at Diamond Head, noting at least four opportunities per month with plans to expand, encouraging community participation in fire mitigation and crater maintenance as part of a plan developed with the Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization, and emphasizing the need for assistance given limited staff.
• Newsletter: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1fJkzxYsYwkh3s7AlW8u5H3Ma7whe7ICt

Public Events Announcements [0:24:47]
1. American Heart Association Heart Walk [0:25:15]: Demi Duran announced the annual Heart Walk event on Saturday, August 15, 2026 (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oTq-9eQFzmNDW80CLBjM0FOq70KLt8fp/view). The organization will coordinate with the City's Department of Transportation Services (DTS), road crews, and HPD for road closures on Diamond Head Road. Electric signage will be posted in advance to notify residents of expected traffic and delays. Postcards will not be mailed to residents. Treasurer Knight asked and Duran indicated roads would likely begin reopening around noon.

International Yoga Day [0:26:55]: Ron Reddick presenting on behalf of Dr. Raj Kumar announced the annual International Yoga Day Festival on Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to noon at the bandstand at Kapiolani Park. Flyers will be distributed in advance.

5. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS [0:29:20]

Congressional District 1 Candidacy [0:29:40]: Della Au Belatti announced candidacy for Congressional District 1, representing the area from Hawaii Kai to north-central Honolulu City and Ewa. She announced a community dinner and conversation on Monday, May 18, 2026 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Ala Wai Elementary School.

House District 21 Candidacy [0:31:04]: Angie Knight announced her candidacy for State House District 21.

Ala Wai Canal Ferry Proposal [0:31:33]: Laura Ruby asked for support of a passenger ferry across the Ala Wai Canal.

City Council District 4 Candidacy [0:34:59]: Jason Liang announced his candidacy for Honolulu City Council (District 4).

Pedestrian Warning Signs at Noela Street and Paki Avenue [0:35:27]: Secretary Matson raised a concern from a constituent regarding "unofficial stop signs" at Noela Street and Paki Avenue that instruct drivers to stop for pedestrians when no pedestrians are present in the crosswalk. She said the signs are not official signs. Secretary Matson asked who installed the signs and what can be done to address the issue, and suggested that standard pedestrian warning lights activated by a pedestrian would be the appropriate solution.

[0:36:58] Secretary Matson requested that the Board consider advancing the Kapiolani Park Trust Land resolution (Board Business Item 9.B.ii) to earlier in the agenda. Secretary Matson MOVED and Vice Chair Velasco SECONDED to amend the agenda to discuss the Kapiolani Park Trust resolution. Following a roll call vote, the motion was ADOPTED; 10-0-1 (Aye: Knight, B. Wong, Allen, St. Denis, Velasco, Matson, Rozman, L. Wong, Hasina, and Welch; Nay: None; Abstain: Miranda) -- [0:40:44]. Note: The vote initially fell short of the two-thirds threshold. Chair Welch changed his vote from abstain to aye.

9. BOARD BUSINESS [0:42:23]

Discussion and Possible Action regarding proposed resolutions concerning Ocean Safety Department use of Kapiʻolani Park Trust lands [0:42:23]: Vice Chair Velasco and Secretary Matson reported on the joint committee meeting of Environment, Parks & Recreation and Planning & Zoning held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. They recommended that the two Leahi Avenue parcels currently used by the Department of Ocean Safety remain Kapiolani Park Trust lands, rather than be transferred to the City in exchange for 2.21 acres at the park entrance. Secretary Matson further stated that the Leahi Avenue parcels are operationally inadequate, that their departmental use violates the terms of the Trust, that Councilmembers serve as trustees under the oversight of the Attorney General, and that any Trust-related action is subject to court review with the Attorney General's opinion and testimony from parties with standing.
• Draft Resolution: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HvpMb3cfh_yeGmCkYsFNkGQLinvP6BJV

Member Wasden joined the meeting; 12 members present.

Member Linda Wong MOVED and Member Arleen Velasco SECONDED to adopt the Joint Committee's resolution regarding the Department of Ocean Safety's temporary extended use of Kapiolani Park Trust Lands (TMK Nos. 3-1-025:026 and 3-1-026:011). Following a roll call vote, the motion was ADOPTED; 11-0-1 (Aye: Knight, B. Wong, Allen, St. Denis, Velasco, Matson, Rozman, L. Wong, Hasina, Wasden, and Welch; Nay: None; Abstain: Miranda) -- [0:55:39].

Chair Welch returned to the regular meeting agenda.

6. PRESENTATIONS [0:57:00]

A. Feasibility Study for a Potential Mobility Hub on Kapahulu Avenue -- SSFM International, OMPO, and DTS [0:57:00]: Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) Executive Director Mark Garrity and Janet Meinke-Lau (SSFM planner) shared plans for a mobility hub in Kapahulu at the Ala Wai Golf Course parcel and the State lot on Kapahulu Avenue. The hub would consist of public transit, biking, walking, and shared-mobility options, with features like community space, ride-hail pickup, EV-ready bus stops, path connections, and bike/scooter parking. OMPO will host a community workshop on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This project is at the feasibility stage and remains unfunded.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:07:55]:
1. Traffic Congestion on Kapahulu/Monsarrat: Member Linda Wong expressed concern that a mobility hub would worsen congestion on already over-capacity Kapahulu Avenue, questioned whether travel time would improve, and stated the area lacks room for additional infrastructure.
2. Project Timeline and Concerns: Treasurer Knight asked when construction might begin and when the site would be operational. Meinke-Lau stated that funding has not been secured, and that DTS would lead construction once funding is in place, with no current construction schedule. She noted a history of pedestrian incidents on Kapahulu, including painted-over crosswalks, and requested pedestrian safety be prioritized. Meinke-Lau confirmed this is a primary concern and noted traffic studies are planned prior to construction. Treasurer Knight asked whether the Ala Wai flood mitigation plan's use of the golf course as a flood basin would conflict with the hub. Meinke-Lau indicated further research is needed. Member St. Denis raised concerns about people crossing Kapahulu at unmarked crosswalks.
3. Traffic Congestion: Member Hasina raised concerns about how to resolve traffic congestion. Vice Chair Velasco raised concerns about road closures in the area and suggested a transportation hub near Ala Moana.
4. Land Use: Secretary Matson raised concerns about the project and the preservation land zone nearby Kapahulu and Kapiolani Park. She noted potential parking and development concerns.
5. Community Need and Primary Users: Laura Ruby asked what community need the hub would address.
6. Traffic Congestion: Daisy Murai raised concerns about the project and Member Hasina said she does not want "another rail project."
7. Golf Course: Franklin Chung asked for the Ala Wai Golf Course to not be affected.
8. Support for the Project: Member Miranda shared his support for the project and asked how the Board could assist.
9. Recycling Center Displacement: Noela stated that the DLNR recycling site is a highly utilized facility.
10. Flood Zone: Member Bruce Wong noted that much of the Kapahulu area is a flood plain and expressed concern about constructing a major transit facility in that zone.
11. Golf Course Use and Community Input: Chair Welch noted the Board had previously resolved to support a dog park on the golf course parcel, which became a sod farm before now being proposed for a mobility hub. He urged extended community engagement and suggested the area behind the zoo as an alternative.
12. Community Meeting: Chair Welch thanked the presenters and encouraged community members and board members to attend the May 19, 2026 community meeting at Kaimuki High School.

7. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU REPORTS [1:25:54]

A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi [1:25:54]: Director Krucky reported that the Mayor's newsletter highlighted recent storms and recovery efforts, with town halls postponed to focus on recovery, and noted the recent State of the City address. He shared updates on the Honolulu Zoo's new accreditation, the City acquring a River Street property for affordable housing, and the 2026 Sustainability Report. He reported Managing Director Formby's departure from the City and pending leadership transitions. A Diamond Head Road assessment found no imminent collapse risk, though culvert cracks are under review. He shared shelter updates, noted a Leahi Avenue safety study, $1.5 million budgeted for St. Louis Drive rock slide mitigation, and no-parking signage in the neighborhood.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:29:50]:
1. Acknowledgment of Emergency Shelter Funding: Treasurer Knight expressed gratitude for the City's decision to fund service providers for emergency shelter operations during the recent storms.
2. Restoration of 10th Avenue Sign on Harding Avenue: Chair Welch thanked DFM for promptly restoring the street sign at 10th Avenue and Harding Avenue.
3. Diamond Head Cliff Encampments: Chair Welch and Vice Chair Velasco reported progress in reducing encampments on Diamond Head cliffs, with HPD conducting drone mapping. Noela thanked the City and HPD and noted fire risk as a primary concern heading into fire season.
4. Call for Advance City Presentations: Chair Welch requested that City departments proactively present planned projects to the board well in advance of binding agreements or construction, to allow for meaningful community input.
5. Dog Park at Golf Course: Director Krucky acknowledged the Board's frustration and explained the parcel was returned to the golf course so parks-managed land rules could be enforced. He noted that parks priorities come through multiple channels and outcomes are not always predictable.
6. Emergency Preparedness Committee Meeting: Chair Welch requested Treasurer Knight, as Chair of the Public Safety and Disaster Preparedness Committee, convene a special committee meeting to review emergency preparedness resources and procedures relevant to the Board's district, including shelter locations and response protocols.
7. Illegal Parking: Member Rozman reported vehicles parking on sidewalks and blocking both sides of a road near the and submitted photographs. Director Krucky requested a follow-up email for inclusion in DTS' active planning process.
8. Bus Fleet Reliability: Daisy Murai reported Route 2 articulated buses broke down five times in six weeks, causing up to 35-minute gaps, and requested newer buses be reassigned. Director Krucky acknowledged the concern and noted TheBus has an active fleet replacement plan.
9. Emergency Shelter Capacity: Wayne Swan asked that the emergency shelter information distributed at the meeting be included in the meeting materials for online participants. Director Krucky confirmed the information would be uploaded and accessible on the City website.
10. Managing Director Transition Acknowledgment: Chair Welch and Daisy Murai expressed gratitude to outgoing Managing Director Mike Formby for his public service, and asked Director Krucky to convey the Board's thanks.
11. Goats for Brush Clearance: Chair Welch reiterated the suggestion, also raised with HFD, for the City to explore using goats for brush clearance at Diamond Head to reduce wildfire risk.

B. Council Chair Tommy Waters [1:42:16]: Council Chair Waters reported several updates. Longtime City Clerk Glenn Takahashi has retired, and a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) will be formed to select a new City Clerk; qualified candidates may contact the Council office. An opening exists on the Honolulu Youth Commission for District 4 (Hawaii Kai to Waikiki) for someone ages 14-24. Waters will investigate the unofficial pedestrian stop sign on Paki Avenue with DTS, invited the board to formally weigh in on the proposed mobility hub, and suggested that relocating the lifeguard facility could eventually allow for a dog park, noting the project is likely several years away and he has not taken a formal position.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:45:32]:
1. Unofficial Pedestrian Sign Clarification: Secretary Matson clarified the unofficial sign is on Paki Avenue westbound between Diamond Head Road and the Ala Wai, on the right side of the roadway. Waters confirmed he would investigate.
2. Three-Story Structure in Diamond Head Special District: Member Linda Wong reported a bright yellow three-story structure on Noela Avenue that a community member has been unable to resolve through DPP. Waters offered to investigate and visit the site. Secretary Matson offered to share the DPP inspector's contact information.
3. Ocean Safety Relocation to Kewalo Basin: Secretary Matson noted that the Hawaii Community Development Authority's (HCDA) 2011 master plan designated a lifeguard facility at Kewalo Basin, where state land is available. Waters agreed the concept makes sense and noted a city-owned building there is currently leased to Kupu. Matson encouraged Waters to contact the HCDA Executive Director.
4. TheBus Route 200: Treasurer Knight asked Council Chair Waters to engage DTS on Route 200 rerouting options. Waters deferred to DTS Director Morton and indicated openness.

C. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto [1:53:48]: Kylie Tokujo reported that the City Council is currently focused on budget season, with budget finalization expected in June. She invited constituents in St. Louis Heights and the broader district to contact the office with questions or requests.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed:
1. Park Trustee Chair: Secretary Matson shared her confusion about why the Kapiolani Park Trust has no confirmed chair of trustees. Council Chair Waters responded that he would communicate directly with Councilmember Nishimoto who chairs the Honolulu City Council's International and Legal Affairs Committee.
2. Speeding and Traffic Concerns: Andrew Phomsouvanh requested a speed study and traffic calming on Alencastre Drive and Bertram Street in St. Louis Heights, where speeding creates hazardous conditions.

8. FEDERAL & STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS REPORTS [1:58:50]

A. U.S. Congressman Ed Case [1:58:50]: No report.

B. Governor Josh Green -- Ryan Aguilar [1:59:05]: Ryan Aguilar shared Governor Green's May 2026 newsletter focused on the recent storms and state recovery efforts. Aguilar shared that to report harassment of a Hawaiian monk seal on Oahu, immediately call the NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at (888) 256-9840 (Option 6) or the DLNR DOCARE hotline at (808) 643-DLNR (3567). People can also report violations by emailing photos/videos to RespectWildlife@noaa.gov.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:00:08]:
1. Camera Request: Member Linda Wong requested online participants to turn on their cameras during the meeting.
2. Greenfield Bill: Secretary Matson expressed disappointment that the Ways and Means Committee removed key provisions from the Greenfield bill near the end of the legislative session.
3. Kilauea District Park Transfer: Secretary Matson raised community concern about legislation to transfer Kilauea District Park to the DOE, which would restrict public access after school hours.
4. Recognition of Oliver and Phoenix: Secretary Matson expressed appreciation to Governor Green for attending the celebration of Oliver and his cat Phoenix at the Waikiki Yacht Club, following their solo sailing voyage from Oregon.
5. Immigration Detention Conditions: Vice Chair Velasco expressed concern about reported conditions at the local federal immigration detention facility, including lack of sunlight and prolonged confinement for individuals held for extended periods. She asked about the Governor's position on those conditions. Aguilar agreed to take the question back to the Governor's communications team.
6. Pedestrian Bridge at Ala Moana/Kewalo Basin: Daisy Murai asked whether the approximately $26 million pedestrian bridge at Kewalo Basin is open to the public, as it does not appear to be in regular use. Aguilar agreed to follow up.

C. State Senator Stanley Chang [2:03:41]: No report.

D. State Senator Les Ihara, Jr. [2:03:57]: Senator Ihara reported that the 2026 legislative session has concluded and the Governor must act on bills by the end of June, with a possible early July reconvening for veto overrides, though such overrides are rare. He noted the Senate may reconvene to confirm judicial appointments, including circuit and district court vacancies. Senator Ihara, in his 40th year of legislative service, reflected on his role as an institutional memory and his continued advocacy for constitutional values, including environmental stewardship, Native Hawaiian gathering rights, and protection of land and water.

E. State Senator Carol Fukunaga [2:08:25]: No report.

F. State House Representative Tina Nakada Grandinetti [2:08:55]: Representative Grandinetti reported that the 2026 session addressed federal funding threats, a state budget shortfall, rising costs, and impacts to civil liberties and immigrant communities. The legislature preserved the social safety net, avoided major cuts, and provided tax relief funded by higher taxes on top earners. Progress was made on long-term care, immigrant protections, and emergency funding for native bird programs. A first-in-the-nation bill challenging Citizens United was enacted. She noted the loss of the renewable energy tax credit and ongoing efforts to prevent the transfer of Kilauea District Park.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:14:51]:
1. Federal Detention Center: Member Linda Wong asked about closing the federal immigration detention center. Representative Grandinetti noted that limiting new state facilities is feasible but the existing federal site presents greater challenges. She agreed to follow up on a legislative site visit with Congresswoman Tokuda.

G. State House Representative Jackson Sayama [2:17:51]: No report.

H. State House Representative Ikaika Olds [2:17:51]: No report.

I. State House Representative Andrew Garrett [2:17:51]: No report.

9. BOARD BUSINESS [2:18:22]

A. Chair's Announcements and Updates [2:18:22]:

i. Agenda Requests: To request a meeting agenda item, please contact Chair Winston Welch at (winstonwelch@gmail.com) and copy Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov) at least two weeks prior to the scheduled meeting. Please email all materials for posting online to Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi.

ii. Next Meeting: The June 2026 regular meeting is recessed in observance of King Kamehameha I Day. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Ala Wai Golf Course Ballroom and online via Webex. Board members expressed interest in convening committee meetings during the recess to address ongoing issues including the Kapiolani Park Trust, the Mobility Hub, and public safety preparedness. Chair Welch noted that City facilities will not be available on the holiday.

iii. Neighborhood Board Boundary Review [2:22:32]: Chair Welch noted that the St. Louis Heights Community Association had contacted board members expressing interest in affiliating with the Kaimuki Neighborhood Board. Neighborhood Commissioner and Treasurer Knight clarified that while the commission originally requested input by April 2026, there is understanding for the delay caused by the canceled meetings; the process is lengthy and involves review by the Neighborhood Commission, City Council, and ultimately the City.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:24:00]:
1. Executive Committee: Secretary Matson suggested redistricting be handled as an executive committee matter, as it concerns the board's own composition and sub-districts.
2. St. Louis Heights Representation: Treasurer Knight confirmed the St. Louis Heights Community Association reached out to her and Member Allen.
3. Neighborhood Commission: Member Linda Wong said she attended a Neighborhood Commission meeting and Chair Welch confirmed residents should reach out to the Neighborhood Commission regarding Neighborhood Board boundary changes. Angie Knight said she is a Neighborhood Commission member and the Neighborhood Commission requested Neighborhood Boards about potential boundary changes for approval by the Neighborhood Commission. Chair Welch stated he would form a committee and coordinate with neighboring Boards.
4. Redistricting Process: Neighborhood Commission Chair Patrick Smith outlined the process: Neighborhood Boards develop proposals with neighboring Boards for Neighborhood Commission approval before the 2027 election. He also suggested Boards to cooperate with each other, but distinct boundaries are needed for election purposes.

B. Action Items and Reports [2:29:45]

Resolution on Supporting TheBus Route 200 Changes [2:29:45]: Juanita Liu presented the background and rationale for the Route 200 resolution, noting 18 months of community input. She reported uneven service, with heavy bus volume in west Kaimuki and none in central Kaimuki, while ridership is concentrated in Palolo and minimal in Kaimuki and Waikiki segments. Liu proposed rerouting through central Kaimuki and removing the low-ridership Kapiolani Park loop, though DTS cited cost concerns and suggested a modified approach. She added that high bus frequency at Kuhio and Kapahulu limits the benefit of Route 200 in that area.

[2:35:28] Vice Chair Arleen Velasco MOVED and Member Samo Rozman SECONDED to adopt the resolution supporting TheBus Route 200 changes. The resolution was ADOPTED; 12-0-0 (Aye: Knight, L. Wong, B. Wong, Allen, St. Denis, Velasco, Matson, Rozman, Hasina, Miranda, Wasden, and Welch; Nay: None; Abstain: None).

Resolution Ensuring Community Park Safety from Archery Ranges [2:31:50]: Chair Welch reported that a private foundation entered a May 14, 2025 agreement with the City to build a kyudojo archery facility at Mauʻumae Nature Park before completing a required HRS Chapter 343 environmental assessment. A draft EA was later released, but the project was paused after community opposition, with 80% of survey respondents opposed. He noted federal guidance recommends 150- to 400-foot safety buffers for archery ranges, which the site and similar parks may not meet.

[2:45:30] Vice Chair Velasco MOVED and Member Angie Knight SECONDED to adopt the resolution ensuring community park safety from archery ranges.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:48:17]:
1. Public Input on Public Parks: Vice Chair Velasco clarified and Juanita Liu confirmed the resolution is not intended to prevent archery as a sport, but to ensure that any future proposal for an archery range in a public park must: (1) comply with the environmental assessment process prior to any binding agreement; (2) meet established buffer zone standards; and (3) include adequate community notification and input.
2. Archery Community Input: Member Miranda asked whether the archery community had been consulted, noting archery is an Olympic sport, and suggested the Board hear from proponents before voting.
3. Response on Safety Standards: Chair Welch clarified the resolution is grounded in established federal safety standards and federal safety standards, not opposition to archery. A site analysis showed arrows flew approximately 500 feet, well beyond the 150- to 400-foot federal buffer. A 2003 review also found the site unsuitable. Vice Chair Velasco reiterated the resolution concerns process and safety.
4. Historical Context on Archery Advocacy: Member Linda Wong noted that when the board considered a prior archery range proposal, the archery community initially mobilized but ultimately disengaged over time.

[2:51:00] The resolution was ADOPTED; 11-1-0 (Aye: Knight, B. Wong, Allen, Welch, Wasden, Hasina, Velasco, St. Denis, Matson, Rozman, and L. Wong; Nay: Miranda; Abstain: None).

Findings of the PIG on Neighborhood Board Marketing Materials: Postponed.

Air Traffic Noise and Safety Committee FAA Update: Postponed.

Board Subdistrict Reports: Postponed.

Approval of Board Meeting Minutes: Thursday, November 13, 2025; Thursday, December 11, 2025; Thursday, January 8, 2026; and Thursday, February 12, 2026: Postponed.

Formed Committees and Chairs: Postponed.

10. ANNOUNCEMENTS [2:51:50]

Agenda Topic Requests: To request a meeting agenda item, contact Chair Welch at winstonwelch@gmail.com and copy Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi at curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov at least two weeks before the next meeting. Email all materials for posting online to Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi.

Next Meeting: The June 2026 regular meeting is recessed in observance of King Kamehameha I Day. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Ala Wai Golf Course Ballroom and online via Webex.

Televised Rebroadcasts: Neighborhood Board No. 5 meetings can be viewed on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@NeighborhoodCommissionOffice or on 'Olelo Channel 49 at 9:00 p.m. on the fourth Sunday of the month and at 2:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month, or on demand at https://olelo.org/olelonet (community/informational section).

Report City Issues: Use the HNL 311 mobile app or website (HNL311.com).

11. ADJOURNMENT [2:52:15]: Chair Winston Welch adjourned the meeting at 8:59 p.m.

Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Finalized by:

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Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting MAY 2026 Minutes

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