September 22, 2025 Youth Commission Special Meeting Minutes

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YouthCommissionSpecial Meeting Minutes September 22, 2025 Commissioner Nagata asked about renovations or updates to public recreation sites. The Mayor highlighted recent renovations to Clarence Lum Won Park, providing 80 additional parking stalls, upgrades to the William Charles Lunalilo Playground commonly referred to as Blue Park, and the Arthur L. Commissioner Vanebo asked the Mayor what he thought the Youth Commission should be involved in or what was something they should be working on and then followed up with a question on environmental sustainability. Mayor Alameda suggested involving the Youth Commission in organizing a youth summit to address issues like natural disasters, transportation, and education. He discussed the importance of safe sleeping programs for homeless youth and the need for more housing and support services. Mayor Alameda highlighted the Youth Commission's role in promoting both environmental and economic sustainability. He encourages the Youth Commission to undertake ongoing efforts to address youth issues and provide ongoing support. Commissioner Tominaga shared her experiences regarding the recent July 29, 2025, tsunami advisory and posed a question regarding the readiness and preparation of our emergency personnel. Mayor Alameda touched on disaster preparedness and the challenges experienced on July 29, 2025. He vowed to continue improving our preparedness, as it is one of the County's primary functions to protect its residents. Adult Advisor Alanna Barber spoke about the homeless population and the youth shelters that are emerging, for example, with Neighborhood Place of Puna. Mayor Alameda mentioned that he was proud of the County for helping provide grant funding to Neighborhood Place of Puna. The Mayor went on to further visualize the dire situation and expressed hopes that no youth should ever be homeless. He wants to expand homeless youth programs to West Hawaii. Adult Advisor Vanessa L. Carlson shared remarks in favor of a Youth Summit. She is hopeful that the youth summit can be a bridge to more continuous conversations and initiatives, and it will not be just a one-off event. Mayor Alameda and his managing director, William V. Brilhante Jr., offered advice to the Youth Commission, emphasizing the importance of education and the value of pursuing as much education as possible. Mayor Alameda shares his personal experience of balancing work and education, highlighting the long-term benefits of obtaining a degree. Commissioner Tominaga asked a follow-up question, inquiring how the Mayor determines what needs to be done, and how the youth pursue opportunities like internships. Mayor Alameda referenced Executive Assistant (EA) Micah Alameda, who manages the County's volunteer program. If individuals are looking to volunteer or intern, they can reach out to EA Micah Alameda. For 3