2021-11-09 Kailua Village Design Commission Minutes

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2. PL-KVD-2021-000006: The applicant, Mr. Ali Ghalamfarsa, architect for Kona Opportunity Properties LLC, is proposing several exterior improvements for a residential multi-family 16-unit apartment building,located on Alahou Street in the Lono Kona Subdivision, built in 1972. The proposed exterior improvements include new standing seam metal roof; replace doors and windows; replace staircase and railings; and new landscaping. (The application includes proposed interior improvements, such as remodel kitchens and bathrooms, add washer/dryer to each unit, and new electrical and plumbing,which are not covered by the Commission review.) Applicant: Ali Ghalamfarsa Landowner: Kona Opportunity Properties LLC TMK: (3) 7-5-022:060 Location: 75-5730 Alahou Street, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 Ms. Napeahi gave a PowerPoint presentation on the design review application. She described the property location and said that according to the applicant the existing building is in need of great care and improvements. She explained each improvement proposed in this application. She noted that the new roof design meets the guidelines of the Master Plan for Kailua-Kona, and that all the colors selected for the project are similar to the recommended Benjamin Moore Historical Collection colors. Chairman Roth called upon the applicant. Mr. Ali Ghalamfarsa stated that the improvements to the 1972 building are designed for better safety, appearance, and energy efficiency in mind. He said that two more parking stalls were added by rearranging the existing parking, and that he was of the opinion that the two large trees right in front of the apartment building should remain and not be sacrificed to gain more parking, as they are a beautiful feature of the property. He noted that addition of a barbecue area and several bike stalls would also be part of the improvements, which would be conducive to the current lifestyle in the village. Upon inquiry by Chairman Roth, Mr. Ghalamfarsa clarified that the basement is for storage purposes, and that adding more parking there would not be possible due to the topography. Acknowledging the extent and quality of the proposed work, Commissioner Smith inquired about the cost estimate in light of the increase in construction cost and questioned the likelihood of the project being completed. Mr. Ghalamfarsa responded that in his capacity as architect he was not sure of the total cost estimate, but that he was sure that the cost would be much higher than the owner initially estimated, as they had begun the project planning prior to the recent price increase for building materials. He further said that his understanding was that the owner has other properties in areas like San Diego, and that they determined it was a feasible project to do something of quality to this property. Chairman Roth expressed his approval of the proposal, including the materials, addition of the parking stalls, and improved accessibility to the storage. He acknowledged Commissioner Smith's concern about the possibility of the project not being carried out due to the cost increase and said that he appreciated however the owner's desire and intention to make long-term investment in this property, which would be a benefit to the Kailua Village. 4 Kailua Village Design Commission November 9,2021,Meeting Minutes