Petition Against High-Density Condominium Projects by Ikenakea Development LLC in Mo‘ili‘ili and Mānoa

Dear Chairman Waters and Council members,

Your constituents and residents of Mo‘ili‘ili and Mānoa, respectfully urge the Honolulu City Council to uphold and enforce the A-2 zoning regulations and to REJECT and DENY the anticipated HRS 201H application by Ikenakea Development LLC for exemptions from zoning height, setback, and density requirements, as well as from completing a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Kamo‘ili‘ili Apartments and Kukalahale Place projects.

Traffic and Congestion Concerns

The neighborhoods of Mo‘ili‘ili and Mānoa are already overcrowded and experiencing significant congestion on streets such as Punahou, Wilder, Dole, Alexander, Bingham, and Beretania. Traffic data shows that the Punahou Street Exit is among the H1 freeway’s most heavily used. The addition of vehicles from the new developments will exacerbate traffic issues, contrary to the findings of Ikenakea's traffic consultant, Fehr & Peers. Their assessment lacks the detailed traffic data typically required in a thorough Transportation Impact Analysis Report (TIAR), such as precise vehicle counts.

Parking Shortages

Currently, there is a severe shortage of street parking in these areas. Residents are competing for limited parking spaces with Kapiolani Medical Center staff, visitors, private school communities, local business employees, and neighborhood church attendees. The influx of new residents from these projects will force existing residents to seek parking further away, spreading congestion to surrounding residential streets.

Impact on Residents’ Well-being

The proposed exemptions from zoning laws will result in living units and parking stalls being as close as 22 feet to some residents’ bedrooms, leading to increased noise, light, and exhaust pollution. These changes will negatively impact the privacy, safety, and mental health of current residents, and potentially decrease property values. The harm that will be caused to residents living near these Ikenakea developments is unacceptable.

Infrastructure and Financial Burdens

The high-density nature of these projects will require significant infrastructure investments, for which Ikenakea has not committed to covering the costs. This will likely necessitate additional funding from the State and the City and County of Honolulu, thereby increasing the financial burden on taxpayers.

Structural and Environmental Risks

The construction of Kamo‘ili‘ili Apartments and Kukalahale Place, involving demolition, excavation, and pile-driving, poses risks to the structural integrity of neighboring buildings. Given the presence of artesian springs and streams in Mo‘ili‘ili and Mānoa, there is a heightened risk of undermining foundations. Ikenakea has not addressed our questions about these concerns and whether they will perform credible geotechnical studies, raising our fears of potential catastrophic damage.

Build Zone-appropriate Affordable Housing

Hawaii needs affordable housing solutions that are compatible with existing zoning laws and do not negatively impact existing communities and the lives and property of your voting constituents.  

What can you do to help?

1. Sign the petition today to oppose “monster” condos and show your support of protecting the legal zoning rights of communities.
2. Share this petition with others to raise awareness. Email to 5 or more friends. 
3. Contact your City Council Members to let them know how essential it is to maintain zoning laws and protect community rights.