KANE'OHE, Hawaii -- It was standing room only Thursday in Kane'ohe as discussion at the neighborhood board meeting turned to the Kane'ohe Bay Sandbar.

The spot has become more and more popular with beach goers over the years, as the drinking of alcohol is allowed, KITV reported.

However, three men were assaulted there during a Labor Day brawl which has fueled renewed calls for rules to regulate activity on the sand bar, or even close it indefinitely.

Most at the meeting said they oppose any closure of the sand bar. Some said more presence by DOCAR officers with the Department of Land and Natural Resources would help.

"I would like to see DOCAR officers park their zodiacs and boats and come on shore without being intimidating and say, 'eh, how you doing braddah?' Just to show their presence," said fifth generation sandbar user Andy Jamila, Jr.

The DLNR chief of law enforcement, Gary Moniz, said his officers do go ashore. But he said they are in charge of the entire windward side and cannot concentrate on just one area.

Community members said just a few bad eggs can spoil the spot, and agree they all would need to come together to ensure the sandbar is a safe place.