The developer of Koko Villas has put the brakes on phase two of his project.

What was originally proposed as a new subdivision for 11 more homes on a 3.21-acre parcel is now on hold.

In order to pursue the project, the developer, Koko Villas Development, would have had to file for a zone change for the parcel - from preservation (P-2) to residential (R-5).

Project architect Robert Lazo was scheduled to present the plans before the Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board last night. Instead, he said the landowner, Philip Ho, has decided to postpone the project.

The decision stemmed mostly from concerns raised by the zoning committee of the board that met with Lazo on Monday evening.

Lazo said much of the opposition came from preservation and historical issues.

Originally, the proposal sought to offer lots ranging from between 10,196 to 15,512 square feet for single-family homes. Though similar in design to the first phase built in 2004 and 2005, these lots would have been much larger.

A presentation before the neighborhood board is required before the developer can apply for a land use zone change.

Hawaii Kai residents, however, said the area should remain open space.

Board member Elizabeth Reilly said she opposed the project because she believes the East Honolulu Sustainable Communities Plan under review should be completed before any zone changes are approved.

“;It is, I believe, irresponsible for anybody to consider a zone change at this time because of the sustainable plan,”; said Reilly. “;It should be considered in the context of the entire review.”;

Koko Villas Development owns two more parcels in the area that are also zoned preservation.

Several residents at Koko Villas say that as members of the homeowners association, they are paying for the property taxes of the unused lot, which they were led to believe would be a green belt.

Koko Villas resident Kevin Kekoa said they should at least be allowed to use the lot to walk their dogs.

Existing Koko Villas homes - about 70 in all - are currently listed at $1.2 million and above.