Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting JULY 2026 Minutes

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Diamond Head Neighborhood Board Meeting JULY 2026 Minutes
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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, JULY 9, 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=0U_VgJg8gA8&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 6:05 p.m.

2. ROLL CALL [0:00:15]: Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi conducted roll call. Quorum was established with 10 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, Margaret Murchie, Laura St. Denis, Arleen Velasco (Vice Chair), Bruce Wong, Linda Wong, Winston Welch (Chair), Samo Rozman (joined at 6:05 p.m. and left at 6:53 p.m.), Kendric Wong (joined at 6:07 p.m.), Michelle Matson (joined at 6:09 p.m.), and Chad Wasden (joined at 7:08 p.m.).

Board Members Absent: Anthony Miranda and Ronan Witherwax (seat vacated).

Guests: Lieutenant Mike Thompson (Honolulu Police Department); Steven Norstrom (Board of Water Supply); Matt Lippert and Desiree Malabed (Wilson Okamoto Corporation); Darren Graves and John Veltri (Oahu Pickleball Coalition / Friends of Diamond Head Tennis); Council Chair Tommy Waters; Taylor Date (Councilmember Nishimoto); Ryan Aguilar (Governor Green); Erin Enriques (Representative Grandinetti); Representative Jackson Sayama; Patrick Smith (Neighborhood Commission); Paul Nishima, Nathaniel, Jason Liang, Stanley Kim, Malia Harunaga, Tai Blechta, Sage Murakami, Kylan Kaneshiro, Laura Ruby, and Andrew Phomsouvanh (Residents/Guests). Note: Names may not be included if not legible or identified. About 61 participants joined the meeting.

Samo Rozman joined the meeting at 6:05 p.m.; 10 members present.

3. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORTS [0:01:09]

A. Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) [0:01:09]: No report.

B. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- District 6 (Waikiki/Kapiolani Park/Diamond Head) [0:01:09]: No report.

Kendric Wong joined the meeting at 6:07 p.m.; 11 members present.

C. Honolulu Police Department (HPD) -- District 7 (Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights/East Honolulu) [0:02:13]: Lieutenant Thompson reported June 2026 statistics, including 5 motor vehicle thefts (compared to 10 in May), 0 burglaries (compared to 1 in May), 14 thefts (compared to 22 in May), 4 unauthorized entries into a motor vehicle (UEMV) (compared to 6 in May), and 5,315 total calls for service. Lieutenant Thompson shared a safety tip for National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month: never leave valuables in your car, remove your keys, and avoid key lockboxes attached to vehicles. He also noted about 650,000 vehicles were stolen nationally in 2025 with thefts peaking in summer.

Michelle Matson joined the meeting at 6:09 p.m.; 12 members present.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:04:19]:
1. Abandoned Vehicle Near Kapiolani Park Tennis Courts: Member Matson and Member Kendric Wong said a large vintage red-and-white vehicle has been parked for years near the Paki Avenue tennis courts, with someone living in it overnight in violation of park rules. Lieutenant Thompson said he would pass the concern to District 6.

4. BOARD ELECTION & ACTION ITEMS [0:07:08]

A. Election of Officers [0:07:08]: Chair Welch explained that per the Neighborhood Plan, officer elections are held annually at the start of each new term (July to June).

Member Knight nominated Winston Welch for Chair. Welch accepted the nomination. Hearing no other nominations, Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call vote. Winston Welch was ELECTED Chair; 12-0 (Welch: Allen, Hasina, Knight, Matson, Murchie, Rozman, St. Denis, Velasco, B. Wong, K. Wong, L. Wong, and Welch; Abstain: None) -- [0:09:19].

Member Matson nominated Arleen Velasco for Vice Chair. Velasco accepted the nomination. Hearing no other nominations, Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call vote. Arleen Velasco was ELECTED Vice Chair; 11-1 (Velasco: Allen, Hasina, Knight, Matson, Murchie, Rozman, Velasco, B. Wong, K. Wong, L. Wong, and Welch; Abstain: St. Denis) -- [0:10:33].

Member Hasina nominated Angie Knight for Secretary. Knight declined the nomination. Chair Welch nominated Michelle Matson for Secretary. Matson declined the nomination. Member Matson nominated Rafia Hasina for Secretary. Hasina accepted the nomination. Hearing no other nominations, Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted a roll call vote. Rafia Hasina was ELECTED Secretary; 12-0 (Hasina: Allen, Hasina, Knight, Matson, Murchie, Rozman, St. Denis, Velasco, B. Wong, K. Wong, L. Wong, and Welch; Abstain: None) -- [0:13:08].

Secretary Hasina nominated Bruce Wong for Treasurer. Bruce Wong declined the nomination. Chair Welch nominated Linda Wong for Treasurer. Linda Wong declined the nomination. Chair Welch nominated Angie Knight for Treasurer. Angie Knight accepted the nomination. Member Matson nominated Kendric Wong for Treasurer. Kendric Wong accepted the nomination. Angie Knight was ELECTED Treasurer; 8-4-0 (Knight: Allen, Hasina, Knight, Matson, Rozman, St. Denis, B. Wong, and Welch; Wong: Murchie, Velasco, Wasden, and K. Wong; Abstain: None) -- [0:16:03].

B. Discussion and Consideration: Board Member Ronan Witherwax's Three Absences [0:16:03]: Chair Welch said Ronan Witherwax had missed three or more consecutive meetings. Treasurer Knight noted absences reset each term, and Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi confirmed today's absence was the first in the new term.

Vice Chair Velasco MOVED and Member Matson SECONDED to declare the Board Member Ronan Witherwax's subdistrict 1 seat (St. Louis Heights) vacant pursuant to Neighborhood Plan §2-14-106. The motion was ADOPTED; 12-0-0 (Aye: Allen, Hasina, Knight, Matson, Murchie, Rozman, St. Denis, Velasco, B. Wong, K. Wong, L. Wong, and Welch; Nay: None; Abstain: None) -- [0:19:25].

Chair Welch noted the vacancy would be opened to St. Louis Heights community members.

C. Discussion and Consideration: Forming a Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) or Committee on Neighborhood Board Boundaries [0:20:31]: Chair Welch said he and Vice Chair Velasco met informally with Kaimuki Neighborhood Board leadership and agreed clearer guidance from the Neighborhood Commission Office was needed before moving forward. Members discussed whether to form a temporary, narrowly focused working group or a more formal special subject committee. Treasurer Knight noted Kaimuki has already formed its own working group.

Vice Chair Velasco MOVED and Treasurer Knight SECONDED to form a PIG on Neighborhood Board boundaries. Neighborhood Board No. 5 Diamond Head formed the PIG with Julia Allen, Rafia Hasina, Angie Knight, Margaret Murchie, and Winston Welch; 10-0-2 (Aye: Allen, Hasina, Knight, Rozman, St. Denis, Velasco, B. Wong, K. Wong, L. Wong, and Welch; Nay: None; Abstain: Matson and Murchie) -- [0:28:16].

D. Approval of Board Meeting Minutes: November 13, 2025; December 11, 2025; January 8, 2026; February 12, 2026; and May 26, 2026 [0:30:31]: Former Secretary Matson raised concerns about the accuracy of minutes. She stated that she had previously prepared redlined corrected versions of minutes from July through October 2025. She requested that the new Secretary Hasina be provided with transcripts or alternative tools to compare drafts against recordings, and asked that the new secretary have adequate time to review the pending minutes. Chair Welch agreed and proposed that Secretary Hasina review the outstanding minutes and return with corrections at a future meeting. Approval of the minutes was postponed.

5. PUBLIC INTEREST REPORTS AND EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS [0:34:24]

A. Board of Water Supply (BWS) [0:34:24]: Steven Norstrom reported there were no main breaks in June 2026 in the Diamond Head, Kapahulu, and St. Louis Heights district. He also noted the annual drought-tolerant plant sale on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Halawa Xeriscape Garden. The Monsarrat water line project remains unchanged, with work paused pending answers on new service connections.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:36:13]:
1. Water Main Break on University Avenue: Member Murchie asked about a recent water main break on University Avenue near Coyne/Kuilei Place. Norstrom explained that the June 2026 report covers breaks from the prior month; the July 2026 break would be reported at the August 2026 meeting.

B. Kapiolani Community College (KCC) [0:36:29]: No report.

C. Diamond Head State Monument [0:36:29]: No report.

D. Public Events Announcements [0:37:21]

Honolulu Century Ride [0:37:40]: Malia Harunaga (Hawaii Bicycling League, Director of Education) presented on behalf of the organization. The Honolulu Century Ride is a fundraiser cycling event welcoming riders of all experience levels along a scenic route through the district. Riders may choose their own distance up to 100 miles.

Dick Evans Memorial Road Race (DEMRR) -- Sunday, August 23, 2026 [0:38:51]: No representative was present.

Rainbow Ekiden Race [0:39:15]: Stanley Kim (JTB Hawaii / Honolulu Festival Foundation) announced that the Rainbow Ekiden relay race, originally scheduled for March 2026, has been rescheduled to Saturday, August 29, 2026. Road closures and logistics remain unchanged from the March plan. The race runs from Kapiolani Park along Kalākaua Avenue to the Second Lookout at Diamond Head and back. More information is available at rainbowekiden.com.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [0:41:19]:
1. Heritage Event Status and Frequency of Road Closures: Member Murchie asked how long the Rainbow Ekiden has operated and raised concerns about frequent weekend road closures. Kim said it has run for about 10 to 12 years as part of the Honolulu Festival. Murchie questioned its heritage status, and Chair Welch said the community wants to avoid consecutive weekend events.
2. Road Access During Events: Member Linda Wong and Member Kendric Wong commented on road closures during events. Kendric Wong noted that police do a good job managing traffic during events and acknowledged that the district serves as a central recreation area for all of Oʻahu, generating tax revenue beneficial to the community.

Norman Tamanaha 15K and Half Marathon [0:44:18]: Tai Blechta (Shocker Racing / Pacific Organized Club) announced two legacy road race events. The Norman Tamanaha 15K runs on Sunday, August 9, 2026 starting at 6:00 a.m. and clears in approximately two hours. Minor road closures affect the Kapiolani side only. The half marathon on Sunday, November 8, 2026 starts at 5:30 a.m. and clears early. Vice Chair Velasco asked whether roads on Sunday, August 9, 2026 would be clear by 10:15 a.m. due to a Surfrider Blue Water Task Force sampling commitment at the Waikīkī Aquarium. Blechta confirmed the mauka side of Kalakaua would be open the entire time and roads should be clear by 10:15 a.m.

6. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS [0:49:15]

Red Curb Parking on Monsarrat Avenue [0:49:35]: Paul Nishima, a Monsarrat Avenue resident, reported that approximately 30 feet of curb near a residential driveway was painted red in February 2026, eliminating two to three parking spaces. One segment was later repainted white, but approximately 15 feet of red curb adjacent to the driveway on the makai side remains. Director Krucky confirmed the issue, noting the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) only authorizes red curb painting for bus stops and that the contractor had made an error. He stated the remaining red curb would be corrected and committed to reporting back to the board.

Kapiolani Park Improvement Projects Timeline [0:57:42]: A community member (Nathaniel) asked for an update on the timeline for Kapiolani Park improvement projects presented at an earlier meeting, including slack line posts, fitness rings, a bocce ball court, and sand volleyball courts. He expressed concern about the proposed placement of sand volleyball courts in areas used by soccer players and asked how to report broken equipment. Chair Welch and Vice Chair Velasco noted that the board had not received follow-up from DPR since the initial presentation and agreed that a joint committee meeting with DPR should be convened. Chair Welch suggested submitting broken equipment reports via the HNL 311 app.

Samo Rozman left the meeting at 6:53 p.m.; 11 members present.

Disaster Preparedness [1:02:28]: Jason Liang provided a public service announcement regarding the Hawaii Hazard Awareness and Resilience Preparedness (HHARP) program, available at dod.hawaii.gov, which provides community training for disaster preparedness. He also reminded residents that the Real Property Tax Credit application is due Wednesday, September 30, 2026, and encouraged community members to watch for the form.

Chad Wasden joined the meeting at 7:08 p.m.; 12 members present.

Hawaii Resilience Hub Learning Community [1:03:40]: Sage Murakami introduced the organization, which supports the development of resilience hubs across Hawai'i connected to the City's Office of Climate Change, Sustainability, and Resiliency Action 15 Report. The group offers seasonal trainings in first aid, CPR, shelter operations, disaster mental health, CERT, and FEMA certifications. Virtual office hours are held Mondays and Fridays. The next community meeting is Thursday, July 23, 2026.

Ala Wai Canal Ferry Proposal [1:08:37]: Laura Ruby renewed her proposal for an inexpensive, non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle ferry crossing the Ala Wai Canal. She asked that the Board add it as a presentation item at the next meeting. Chair Welch and members noted the proposal competes for attention with the proposed Ala Wai bridge project and agreed to refer the matter to the Traffic and Transportation Committee for consideration before a full board presentation.

Ala Wai Boathouse Restoration [1:16:44]: Secretary Matson noted that Cultural Surveys Hawaiʻi has requested input on the restoration of the historic Ala Wai Boathouse, which is long overdue. Special attention is planned for the roof and original design elements. The Board was encouraged to stay engaged with the process.

Property Tax Committee Meeting [1:17:42]: Member Bruce Wong announced that the Property Tax Committee will meet on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the Kāimukī Library (lower floor, parking lot entrance).

Diamond Head Road Accidents and Speed Humps [1:18:32]: Member Kendric Wong reported a head-on collision on Diamond Head Road on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in which approximately three people were transported to the hospital by ambulance, and asked for a status update on planned speed humps and raised crosswalks on Diamond Head Road. Chair Welch suggested the question be directed to Director Krucky and DTS.

7. CITY & COUNTY OF HONOLULU REPORTS [1:20:14]

A. Mayor Rick Blangiardi [1:20:14]: Department of Community Services (DCS) Director Krucky provided the following updates:
• Mayor's Newsletter: A former Smithsonian National Zoo director has been hired to lead the Honolulu Zoo. Managing Director designate Krishna Jayaram is in the City Council confirmation process; Ian Scheuring has assumed the Deputy Managing Director role.
• School Zone Speed Limit Reduction: Per City Council Ordinance 24-32, school zone speed limits will be reduced from 25 to 20 mph during school hours (6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Significant signage changes are required and will take time to complete. Private school zones are included but will follow public school implementation.
• Pākī Avenue Pedestrian Signs: DTS responded that the "Stop Here for Pedestrians" signs on Pākī Avenue and Noela Street are official signs installed for pedestrian safety, consistent with similar signs across the island. DTS intends to keep them in place.
• TheBus Route 2 Breakdowns: Routes 2 and 2L may experience occasional maintenance issues, which may be more visible due to their high frequency. A bus operator labor shortage prevents an increase in frequency. Newer buses are not prioritized for specific routes but are assigned based on availability and operational need. No specific timeline exists for new buses on Routes 2 or 2L.
• Biki Bike Share: The City has entered into an agreement with Secure Bike Share Hawai'i (SBSH) to continue Biki services. Storm damage and vandalism have affected the system; a new contract is being finalized to upgrade operations. Biki currently operates approximately 600 active bikes across 120 stations. Holo Card integration, e-bikes, and electric scooters have been discussed for future consideration. For cost/revenue data, contact SBSH directly.
• Illegal Parking: Between Friday, May 29, 2026 and Sunday, June 28, 2026, HPD District 7 issued four parking citations and recovered one stolen vehicle on Winam Avenue. DTS has issued a paint and sign work order to DFM for additional no-parking signs on that corridor. Contact DFM at (808) 768-6222 for updates.
• Kuilei Cliffs (Diamond Head): There is currently no legal Adopt-a-Park agreement between the City and the Cliffs nonprofit. The City has approached the group on multiple occasions, but the group has not responded to the adoption proposal. DPR is exploring a booster pump for the existing water system and is in discussions with Hawaiian Electric (HECO) to restore power to the area. HPD's role is limited to enforcement of laws and ordinances.
• Kapiolani Park DPR Improvement Projects: Director Krucky agreed to request a status and timeline update from DPR for Vice Chair Velasco on the three improvement projects previously presented.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:27:00]:
1. School Zone Speed Limits -- Private Schools and Signage: Treasurer Knight asked whether the new school zone speed limits apply to private schools. Director Krucky confirmed they do, with public schools prioritized first. She also asked whether additional speeding concerns could be addressed during the signage process. Krucky noted the ordinance implementation is focused on speed limits only at this stage.
2. Pākī Avenue Pedestrian Signs -- Continued Concerns: Secretary Matson reiterated that the signs are located at intersections, causing drivers to believe they are stop signs, resulting in traffic backup and confusion. She also noted that park trust signage should be reviewed by the trustees. Kendric Wong added that raised crosswalks are more effective than signage at slowing traffic, citing Kalihi Street at Kalakaua Intermediate as a successful example. Director Krucky acknowledged the concern and noted that DTS Director Morton is open to meeting with the board's Traffic and Transportation Committee to discuss these items.
3. Emergency Shelters and Hurricane Preparedness: Member St. Denis asked about available hurricane shelters for O'ahu. Director Krucky explained that the City now prioritizes opening park facilities as initial shelters because they can be announced a day in advance without requiring school closures. Four specific parks have been identified as shelter sites. Unsheltered individuals require specialized services, which DCS and service providers now staff. Schools remain a secondary option.
4. Burned-Out Houses on Date Street: Chair Welch asked about the City's policy on condemned or burned-out houses on Date Street between Kapahulu and the high school. Director Krucky indicated he was not familiar with those specific properties and would need to look into it.
5. DTS Presentation on Proposed Ala Wai Bridge: Chair Welch asked Director Krucky to request that DTS present an update to the Board on the proposed Ala Wai Bridge and other transportation issues in the district. Krucky agreed to convey the request.
6. Hurricane-Resistant Public Structures: Chair Welch and members raised the lack of hurricane-resistant public structures and the need to know evacuation destinations for residents in a major storm. Director Krucky agreed to compile and distribute shelter location information to the board during the hurricane season.
7. School Zone Speed Limits -- Two-Sign Confusion: Chair Welch suggested the City explore amending the ordinance to simply lower the speed limit to 20 mph year-round near schools rather than requiring dual "25/20" signage that confuses drivers. Director Krucky acknowledged the suggestion and noted it would require a legislative amendment.
8. Shelter Capacity for Schools and Cafeterias: Wayne Swan asked whether school cafeterias are prepared to support shelter operations. Director Krucky confirmed schools are generally ready once a shelter declaration is made and agreed to send the Board a layout of the four designated park shelter sites.

B. Council Chair Tommy Waters [1:44:15]: Council Chair Waters presented City Council recognition certificates to Michelle Matson, Linda Wong, and Winston Welch for their service and leadership. He also reviewed plans for a three-story structure on Noela Avenue to assess permit compliance and height limits in the Diamond Head Special District. Waters said he will meet with Parks and Recreation Director Laura Thielen on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, to discuss Diamond Head tennis court resurfacing, pickleball conversion, and possible donation support for repairs.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [1:50:43]:
1. Three-Story Structure -- DPP Inspector: Secretary Matson noted she had contacted the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) inspector assigned to the Diamond Head area and was awaiting a response. She asked why the DPP inspector had not yet visited the property despite a permit being issued. Council Chair Waters indicated the permit appeared to have been approved but committed to reviewing the plans and following up.
2. Noise Concerns -- Pickleball at Diamond Head Tennis Center: Secretary Matson expressed concern about the noise impact of increasing pickleball play near residences, noting current complaints already exist. She asked Council Chair Waters to factor this into his meeting with the DPR Director. Waters acknowledged the concern and indicated he would do his homework before making any commitments.
3. Traffic Calming on Diamond Head Road: Member Kendric Wong requested Waters' assistance expediting speed humps and raised crosswalks on Diamond Head Road following recent accidents. Waters confirmed that when the road is repaved, speed humps at Coconut Avenue are planned. He praised DTS engineer Kelly for her responsiveness and offered to invite her to a future meeting.
4. Driving Range Conversion to Softball Complex: Member Bruce Wong asked whether the City had considered converting the underused Ala Wai Golf Course driving range into a first-class softball complex. Waters acknowledged the shortage of ball fields citywide but noted the proposal would be controversial. He mentioned that the mayor has discussed reconverting Aloha Stadium Park into a baseball diamond and invited the Board to pass a resolution if interested.
5. Bus Transit Tax Credit: Member Hasina asked whether Waters would consider introducing a tax credit for bus riders without cars to encourage transit use and reduce congestion. Waters expressed openness to working on this concept.
6. Property Tax Relief Bills: Member Linda Wong and Waters discussed two bills Waters recently introduced -- raising the homeowner's exemption for kūpuna (65+) from $180,000 to $200,000 and for all others from $100,000 to $180,000 -- and lowering vehicle registration fees for Oʻahu residents to reduce the gap with neighbor islands. Waters noted the bills passed first reading and are headed to the Budget Committee. Linda Wong supported the measures.
7. Accidents on Kapiolani Boulevard / Ticket Master Contract: Member Murchie reported two significant accidents she witnessed on Kapālana Boulevard the evening of the meeting and raised a concern about the City's contract with Ticketmaster, including technical issues at city venues and long lines. Director Krucky clarified that tickets can still be purchased in person at venues. Waters indicated he would look into the issue.

C. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto -- Taylor Date [2:10:40]: Taylor Date reported that the City budget has been finalized with several district allocations, including irrigation system replacement at the Ala Wai Golf Course and improvements to Pālolo-Ala Park. Budget details were sent via the office's e-news and will be shared with the Board.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:11:32]:
1. No Right Turn on Red -- Waiʻalae Avenue and St. Louis Drive: Andrew Phomsouvanh reported that residents on St. Louis Drive frequently disregard the no-right-turn-on-red restriction at Waiʻalae Avenue and St. Louis Drive because they know the turning lane is clear. He requested stricter signage or restriping. Taylor Date agreed to submit a riser to DTS requesting a review of signage and striping at that intersection.
2. Burned-Out Houses on Date Street: Chair Welch asked Date to follow up with DPP on the status of three burned-out houses on Date Street between Kapahulu and the high school playing fields, and what code enforcement options exist. Date agreed to look into what actions are available for abandoned or condemned private properties.

8. FEDERAL & STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS REPORTS [2:15:01]

A. U.S. Congressman Ed Case [2:15:01]: No report.

B. Governor Josh Green -- Ryan Aguilar [2:15:01]: Ryan Aguilar shared the July 2026 edition of Governor Green's newsletter and offered to take questions back to the Governor's communications team.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:15:30]:
1. ICE Enforcement Activity and Community Safety: Vice Chair Velasco expressed concern about recent reports of ICE vehicles targeting individuals and asked what the Governor is doing to protect residents and prevent fatalities. Aguilar acknowledged the concern and agreed to relay it to the Governor's communications team.

C. State Senator Stanley Chang [2:16:25]: No report.

D. State Senator Les Ihara, Jr. [2:16:25]: Senator Ihara sent his regards but was unable to attend.

E. State Senator Carol Fukunaga [2:16:25]: No report.

F. State House Representative Tina Nakada Grandinetti [2:16:49]: Erin Enriques, the office manager, reported for Representative Grandinetti, who is in Washington State attending the Legislative Energy Horizon Institute. About 50 people attended the Disaster Preparedness Town Hall, which highlighted HHARP and Streams Sustainability Lab's Resilience Hubs. The representative's office is helping coordinate community training participation. The town hall will air on ʻOlelo beginning Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., with three rebroadcasts to follow. Representative Grandinetti was nominated by the House Speaker to study energy grid policy as energy costs continue to rise in Hawaiʻi.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:19:10]:
1. Diamond Head State Monument Infrastructure Funding: Secretary Matson asked for information on $1 million in legislative funding for critical infrastructure needs at Diamond Head State Monument and $2.5 million for planning, design, and construction of a debris management system for the Ala Wai Watershed.

G. State House Representative Jackson Sayama [2:20:32]: Representative Sayama reported that the legislature is in recess. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations has secured a contract for actuarial and legal analysis of a paid family leave policy. Results are expected by late December 2026 to early January 2027, in time to inform the next legislative session.

H. State House Representative Ikaika Olds [2:21:43]: No report.

I. State House Representative Andrew Garrett [2:21:43]: No report.

9. PRESENTATIONS [2:24:07]

A. Division of Urban Forestry Kapiolani Nursery -- Construction of a New Administration Building [2:24:07]: Matt Lippert (Wilson Okamoto Corporation) presented on behalf of Desiree Malabed, with design questions addressed by Kylan Kaneshiro (RMA Architects). The project proposes replacing the deteriorating administration building at the Division of Urban Forestry Kapiolani Nursery site (TMK 1-3-1:043:001, approximately 3.4 acres, owned by the State of Hawai'i, zoned P-2 General Preservation under City and County jurisdiction). The new single-story building will include reception and clerical areas, workstations, locker rooms, restrooms with showers, a classroom, staff room, storage, outdoor patio, and electrical room. The existing nursery operations will not be impacted. Access is via Pākī Avenue and Noela Drive. A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was published May 24, 2025. The building is modular with shallow footings; archaeological surveys were conducted as part of the EA process. Estimated construction start is fall 2027, with an approximate 12-month build timeline (subject to change).

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:30:17]:
1. Building Height and Diamond Head Special District Compliance: Secretary Matson asked about the building height. Kaneshiro (RMA) confirmed the building is a single story with a maximum ridge height of approximately 21 feet, compliant with Diamond Head Special District height limits.
2. Landscape Screening of Adjacent Structure: Secretary Matson noted she had submitted EA comments requesting tall non-invasive trees along the rear of the Urban Forestry site to screen an adjacent oversized residential structure from the historic view plane along Pākī Avenue. She expressed support for the project and asked for an update on landscape screening. Lippert and Kaneshiro indicated they would follow up on the landscaping plan.
3. Structural Method and Archaeological Review: Laura Ruby asked about the construction method and whether archaeological excavation had been conducted. Kaneshiro confirmed shallow footings with minimal excavation and noted that archaeological surveys were completed as part of the FONSI process.
4. Tree Preservation and Shade: Chair Welch asked about the large mango tree shown in the site plan and requested the landscaping plan include shade trees and permeable paving. Lippert agreed to email the landscaping plan to the chair.

B. Oahu Pickleball Association -- Diamond Head Tennis Center Resurfacing and Dedicated Pickleball Allocation on Courts 8 and 9 [2:36:00]: Darren Graves and John Veltri proposed converting Courts 8 and 9 at the Diamond Head Tennis Center into eight permanent pickleball courts during the city's upcoming resurfacing project. They said the 1972 facility already uses those courts mainly for pickleball, and the redesign would double capacity, add permanent nets, shade, and spectator areas. They also pointed to strong pickleball growth, offered volunteer and fundraising support, and said resurfacing is expected in late 2026 to early 2027.

Questions, comments, and concerns followed [2:44:25]:
1. Noise Impact on Adjacent Residences: Secretary Matson shared her concern that doubling the number of pickleball courts would increase noise for nearby residents, noting complaints about pickleball noise already exist at the site. Graves stated the pickleball coalition would work to address noise concerns as part of the beautification effort.
2. Tennis Player Input and Court History: Secretary Matson and other members asked whether existing tennis players had been consulted. Veltri confirmed that tennis use on Courts 8 and 9 has declined significantly since COVID and that available tennis courts remain on weekends with no wait times. He noted the Friends of Diamond Head Tennis supports the conversion and has worked cooperatively with the city for over 30 years.
3. Project Timeline and Community Process: Member Hasina and Chair Welch asked about the timeline and how the board can assist. Graves explained that the resurfacing is already in queue with the city; the coalition is seeking neighborhood board support before Council Chair Waters' July 22 meeting with the DPR Director.

Chair Welch referred the presentation to the Environment, Parks & Recreation Committee (Vice Chair Velasco, Chair) for a committee meeting, including a potential site visit at the courts, before any board action.

10. BOARD BUSINESS & REPORTS [2:53:32]

A. Findings of the Permitted Interaction Group (PIG) on Neighborhood Board Marketing Materials [2:53:32]: Postponed. Chair Welch encouraged board members to review the marketing materials PIG findings before the next meeting.

B. Chair's Announcements and Updates [2:22:43]:

i. General Announcements: Chair Welch noted that multiple candidates are running for state and local offices, including Representative Sayama (State Senate District 10), Treasurer Knight (State House District 21), Andrew Phomsouvanh (State House District 21), and others. He directed members to civil debate coverage on Chad Blair's program and the PBS Insights Hawai'i broadcast featuring District 21 candidates.

ii. Candidate Forums [2:22:23]: Chair Welch noted the Board may discuss whether to sponsor or co-sponsor candidate forums for local races in the district. The matter was flagged for future discussion given time constraints.

C. Board Subdistrict Reports: Postponed.

D. Reconfirmation of Formed Committees: Chair Welch asked board members to review the committee list and report any changes to him. Reconfirmation was deferred to a future meeting or handled informally.

11. ANNOUNCEMENTS

A. Next Meeting: The next Neighborhood Board No. 5 regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse (Second Floor), 404 Kapahulu Avenue, and online via Webex.

B. Meeting Agendas/Notices: Sign up for agendas, notices, and minutes via email at https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/newsletter-subscription.

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

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

12. ADJOURNMENT [2:54:30]: Chair Winston Welch adjourned the meeting at 8:54 p.m. and encouraged community members to vote in the upcoming election.

Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Reviewed by: Rachel Cristobal, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO)
Finalized by: Rafia Hasina, Secretary, Neighborhood Board No. 5

DRAFT PROPERTY TAX COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

FRIDAY, JULY 17, 2026 AT 5:00 P.M.

KAIMUKI PUBLIC LIBRARY MEETING ROOM

1041 KOKO HEAD AVENUE, HONOLULU, HI 96816

(IN-PERSON ONLY / NO WEBEX)

Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WKnOJqdvqoRuGhJ7E9rg5u7AtruuZZZn

Action Items

Speaker A Present resolution to neighborhood board

Present the committee's drafted resolution to the neighborhood board for feedback and then forward it to City Council; coordinate timing to advance before the speaker's upcoming trip.

Speaker B Draft income/young-homeowner clause

Develop a draft clause or provision to add an income-based or young-homeowner protective element (e.g., cap by household income or low-income carve-out) for committee review and modeling.

Overview

Meeting reviewed a draft resolution titled "Urgent: The City and County of Honolulu Implement a New Real Property Tax Assessment Methodology for Owner-Occupied Real Property" that aims to protect long-term local owners (Kupuna/Kamaaina) by changing how residential property is assessed. Key goal: keep families in homes across generations.

Current assessment practice ties taxable values to recent market sales (including detached investor buys), which participants said artificially inflates local assessed values and tax bills; suggested anchor = purchase price + improvements instead.

Proposed guardrails discussed: limit annual tax increases to 2% (or inflation, whichever is less), cap assessed value treatment to the property's last sale price (adjusted for improvements), and consider income-based caps (e.g., 1% of household income) to protect lower-income owners.

Practical issues flagged: classification confusion between "residential" vs "Residential A" (owner-occupied vs non-owner-occupied), homeowner's exemption mechanics and deadlines (file by Sept 30), trust/title documentation for exemptions, condo/HOA insurance spikes hurting condo owners.

Resolution & purpose

The resolution seeks a new assessment methodology for owner-occupied residential property in Honolulu to reduce tax burden on Kupuna and Kamaaina families and preserve generational home ownership. The stated approach limits the tax-assessed value to the property's last sales price (plus value of substantial improvements) rather than relying on neighboring market sales. It proposes limiting annual tax increases to 2% per year (or the annual inflation rate, whichever is less) measured from the date of the last sale.

The resolution explicitly excludes other factors such as market value and zoning changes from upward assessment adjustments (those would not trigger increases under this methodology).

Next procedural step described: committee consensus → present to neighborhood board → refer to

City Council for consideration.

How current methodology causes issues

Assessors currently average or use proximate sales; a single high-priced or speculative purchase can lift assessed values across a neighborhood. Offshore investors and out-of-state buyers were repeatedly cited as causing spikes in local sales prices that do not reflect resident income or contribution to the local economy.

Example walkthrough showed a buy+rebuild case: purchase $715,000 in 2007 + $550,000 labor/materials → rebuild value $1,265,000; using an illustrative tax rate of 0.35% gives taxes about $4,427.50 initially and, applying the draft cap growth over 11 years, roughly $5,615.15 -- presented to show how the purchase-price anchor produces lower/clearer outcomes than market-driven reassessments.

Classification, exemptions, timing

Participants clarified classification: use plain "residential" and distinguish owner-occupied vs non-owner-occupied (Residential A) to avoid confusion; homeowner's exemption status is separate from classification. Homeowner's exemption practicalities: must be applied for and is effective only if timely filed (example deadline given: file by Sept 30 to apply for the next tax year). A common small-exemption example: $180 reduction mentioned. Trust-held properties: to claim homeowner-type relief when title is in a trust, trust documents must

show the owner's full name; examiners will verify deed/trust names during due diligence.

Proposed tax cap alternatives and trade-offs

Two mechanisms discussed:

Cap annual tax increase at 2% (or inflation) from the last sale value -- maintains predictability for long-term owners but still lets taxes rise slowly. Cap tax liability to a share of household income (example discussed: 1% of household income or an adjustable cap), which would better protect low-/fixed-income households (Kupuna) but would require income verification and impacts revenue structure. Trade-offs noted: tying taxes to income or lowering growth reduces volatility and helps locals, but City/Council concern is potentially unpredictable or reduced tax revenue, since property taxes are a large part of municipal revenue. Participants preferred a focused resolution now (address the purchase-price / growth-cap "elephant in the room") and treat income-tiered changes as a complementary or follow-on policy to work out technical details.

Impacts on specific groups

Kupuna and long-term generational residents: would benefit by avoiding sudden tax increases tied to investor-driven market spikes; goal is retaining local families. Young/local prospective homeowners: discussed potential targeted provisions (income-based cap or low-income carve-out) to reduce the chance new buyers get immediately burdened by high taxes. Wealthy / investor buyers and offshore owners: would still be able to buy but would likely bear higher nominal tax bills under some designs (or face caps that reduce their incentive to speculate if income-based caps applied).

Condos/HOAs: separate immediate problem--insurance premiums and HOA maintenance spikes can reduce asking prices and increase owners' carrying costs; participants suggested exploring state or municipal insurance programs as a mitigation.

Implementation & vetting needs

The resolution requires detailed operational rules and vetting steps before presentation to Council:

Determine how far back to anchor to a purchase price and how to document last-sale price and substantial improvements. Establish verification protocols for homeowner exemptions, trust ownership documentation, and residency proofs (e.g., 270 days for primary residence was cited as an example requirement). Evaluate fiscal impact: model short- and medium-term revenue effects for the City/County under the proposed changes and under alternative designs (income cap, varying growth caps). Procedural path: committee consensus → neighborhood board presentation → City Council referral; committee members noted City Council's reluctance to accept unpredictable tax credits and emphasized the need to frame revenue impacts.

Concerns & adjacent issues

Rezoning and spot-zoning (example near Carnegie HS/Kui Lai Place) can rapidly change neighborhood values and were raised as an underlying driver of speculation; the group noted opposition to spot rezones that effectively enable high-density investor projects. Potential for work-arounds: selling under market to relatives or trust maneuvering could be misused -- participants recommended due diligence language (trust documents, full-name matching) to close obvious loopholes.

Broader housing policy needed: participants agreed this resolution addresses one piece (assessment methodology) and that complementary policies (speculation controls, progressive tax tiers, insurance programs, housing supply/rezoning oversight) will be required for a durable solution.

Outlook / next steps

Committee agreed there is support to advance a focused resolution that anchors owner-occupied assessments to purchase price + improvements and limits yearly tax increases to 2% (or inflation) to reduce sudden tax shocks. Additional policy work remains on income-based caps, vetting rules, fiscal modeling, and coordination with neighborhood boards and City Council.

Participants signaled urgency to move the draft forward for public review and City Council consideration while acknowledging the need for further technical refinement and revenue impact analysis.

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