Dear Friends and Neighbors:

I appreciate your continued support. In keeping with my promise to be your advocate, I wish to update you on my progress solving the challenges you identified.

Most of us agree that Kahalu’u should retain its rural character and rustic charm. The Kahalu’u Community Master Plan holds promise for the future of Kahalu’u. I strongly suggest you review this important document. It is important that we prevent any special interests from subverting the intent of this plan before the citizens of Kahalu’u have their voices heard.

In March, I sent a survey to every household in our community. Since that time, I have made your concerns known to Congresswoman Hirono, State Senator Hee, State Representative Meyer, Mayor Hanneman, Councilman Dela Cruz as well as the decision makers in the various State and City departments.

I recently discussed our community’s concerns about the performance of City Department of Planning and Permitting, bulky item trash pickup and the need for additional cell coverage in the area with Honolulu City Managing Director Hashiro, Director Eng of City Planning and Permitting, as well as the City Directors of Transportation and Environmental services. Subsequently, I met with the State Deputy Director of Transportation about the need to improve the safety of Kahekili Highway. Those officials were responsive to our concerns. I will continue to monitor.

I have not yet had the opportunity to speak with the interim Director of Land and Natural Resources. It is important to remember that, despite the departure of Peter Young, the problems you highlighted exist, for the most part, in the entrenched bureaucracy and must still be addressed.

Finally, the community said that it would be helpful if the proceedings of our Neighborhood Board were televised. After consultation with open government advocates, I have outlined a plan to allow volunteers to record those proceedings for broadcast on public access to the City Council and the Neighborhood Board Commission. I am hopeful that a City Council resolution will be introduced on this matter during the summer.

I will be sending additional updates regularly. In the meantime, Please leave your comments, they are always appreciated.

With Aloha,