Hawaii prison inmates to remain on Mainland, Maui cleans up police department, homeless grow 6%, Abercrombie plans third veto, Molokai group forms to fight wind farm, drinking water safe, education audit taking shape, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Daniel Inouye (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye said Tuesday he expects the fate of a contentious American Marine base in southern Japan will be decided next month. Associated Press.

Although Gov. Neil Abercrombie has said repeatedly he wants to halt out-of-state incarceration of Hawaii prison inmates, the state is finalizing the award of a new, three-year contract for Mainland imprisonment of up to 2,000 convicts. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie is planning to use his veto pen for the third time since taking office. Associated Press.

Oahu’s drinking water was tested earlier this year to determine if it was safe to drink. Since then, tests have been conducted statewide to determine if we have a public health issue or concern. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tens of thousands of people packed Ala Moana Beach Monday night for the 13th annual Shinnyo-en lantern floating ceremony. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's homeless population grew by just over 6 percent in the past year, according to a new survey released by the state's Department of Human Services. KITV4.

The Hawaii State Board of Education's audit plans are beginning to take shape with a freshly inked charter document, two task forces to investigate policies and a call for a better systemwide strategic plan. Civil Beat.

The acronym IAM represents “I Aloha Molokai,” a newly formed working group comprised of Molokai residents opposed to the proposal to develop a 200 megawatt industrial scale wind power plant to serve the energy needs of Oahu. Molokai Dispatch.

A new pair of fences in the remote wilderness of Kaua‘i will reportedly protect the island’s primary source of water and one of the most important biological diversity hotspots in the Hawaiian archipelago. Garden Island.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is awarding $4.3 million to 12 organizations tasked with improving education, health and income of Native Hawaiians. Associated Press.

Decorated Iraq war veteran Tammy Duckworth has not decided if she will run for elected office again. But if she does, it will not be for Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s average price for regular gasoline fell 16 cents from a week ago to $4.14 per gallon, according to AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report and PBN research. Pacific Business News

City Councilman Stanley Chang says the outcry from residents about a bill that would substantially increase the price of metered parking at Kapiolani and Aala Parks has not fallen on deaf ears. KHON2.

Ex-Maui officer, once called a hero, pleads guilty in theft, sex extortion. Maui News.

Hawaii County is nearly finished ridding Mountain View Gymnasium of lead paint, but neutralizing hazardous materials at other park facilities will cost millions and take years to finish. Tribune-Herald.

West Hawaii motorists should be aware: Road work on Palani Road and Henry Street may snarl traffic starting in June. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Department of Health has reinstated First Commercial Kitchen LLC’s permit to operate. Pacific Business News