Showing posts with label Gov. Linda Lingle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gov. Linda Lingle. Show all posts

Monday, May 14, 2012

Hawaii's Grand Old Party convenes, bonus in store for principals, tax revenues up, sewer work to halt Oahu projects, Hawaii Island tax base lopsided, Kauai poi mill may close, Ka'u celebrates coffee, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright All Hawaii News all rights reserved
File photo 2008 GOP national convention (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
Former Gov. Linda Lingle is calling on Hawaii Republicans to join together to make gains in the Democrat-dominated state. Associated Press.

Republicans from around Hawaii gathered this weekend on Oahu. KITV4.

In just 177 days, the Hawaii Republican Party will know whether it will finally make real inroads in a state dominated by Democrats, or remain mired in the minority. Civil Beat.

Speaking of the need for bipartisanship on Capitol Hill and the need for Republican representation for Hawaii if both houses of Congress go to the GOP this fall, former Gov. Linda Lingle urged party faithful to support her campaign for the U.S. Senate and help overcome the Democratic Party's stronghold in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

With Hawaii's primary election just three months away, candidates and their parties are gearing up for a big showdown. KHON2.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court could decide to throw out the political district boundary maps created by the state Reapportionment Commission. Chief Election Officer Scott Nago said the state is too far along in the planning process to start over and that because the state Constitution sets the election timeline, any order to redraw the maps would not leave adequate preparation time. Star-Advertiser.

The Legislature's recent approval of the undersea cable bill earlier this month is generating added interest in projects seeking to bring energy from neighbor islands to Oahu. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Navy says its use of sonar and explosives could potentially hurt more dolphins and whales in Hawaii and California waters than previously thought. Associated Press.

Principals who attain high ratings under a performance-evaluation pilot program in 82 schools this fall will be eligible for a one-time $10,000 bonus in what officials are calling the first experiment of a merit pay system for public school educators in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

The number of foreclosure cases going through the courts could slow further or stop altogether because of another change the Legislature passed last month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials say the state’s tax revenues are up nearly 13 percent for the first 10 months of the fiscal year through April. Associated Press.

The Judicial Selection Commission on Friday announced its nominees for Hawaii Supreme Court associate justice and for a judge in Maui County’s 2nd Circuit Court. Pacific Business News.

Jodie Maesaka-Hirata will become Deputy Director of Corrections while Ted Sakai has been appointed as the new public safety director. Associated Press.

Jobie Masagatani has been named director of the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii's John A. Burns School of Medicine welcomed 64 new doctors Sunday. But as the graduates move on, there are concerns about how many of them will return to practice in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists in Hawaii have already counted eight monk seal hooking incidents in the islands this year, including one that killed a 10-month-old male seal in March. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Construction of an assisted-living facility is on hold and other major proj­ects from Halawa to Pearl City could be in limbo while the city works to improve sewer lines at two Central Oahu sites. Star-Advertiser.

Mayoral candidates Kirk Caldwell, Peter Carlisle and Ben Cayetano shied away from making any promises about property taxes during the debate last week. Civil Beat.

The Departments of Health and Agriculture launched an investigation into whether pesticides are being used incorrectly at several Thai and Sweet Basil farms in Kunia and Ewa on Oahu. Hawaii Reporter.

The city is soliciting bids for a transitional housing project in urban Honolulu. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Property owners in just two West Hawaii County Council districts — North Kona’s District 8 and Kohala’s District 9 — pay more than half the property taxes that will be collected from the entire county this coming fiscal year. West Hawaii Today.

The Mo‘oheau Bus Terminal will get a makeover later this year as part of an effort by Hawaii County to make its facilities more accessible to the disabled. Tribune-Herald.

Kau coffee, which is mostly grown and produced in Pahala, a former Hawaii island plantation town of 1,356 residents, is getting a big name. Star-Advertiser.

The Ka‘u coffee industry, which sprouted from fields left untended when the area’s sugar plantations faltered nearly two decades ago, is providing opportunities for residents in the south Hawaii district. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold a public informational meeting Wednesday in Kaunakakai on a $5 million Kaunakakai Harbor improvement project set to begin late this month. Maui News.

Through work to restore ancient taro patches, troubled youths dig up valuable life lessons. Maui News.

Development planned for both sides of the southern end of Mokulele Highway will be discussed by a three-member panel Tuesday evening during a meeting sponsored by the Kihei Community Association. Maui News.

Federal and state disaster recovery officials have scheduled an applicant briefing for Monday on Maui County concerning the Federal Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs. Maui Now.

Kauai
Only poi mill in Waimea, Kauai suspending operations. KHON2.

Employees, supporters try to stave off Kauai poi mill closure. Hawaii News Now.

Morgan’s Ponds, beloved by visitors and locals alike, is still struggling with the aftermath of nature’s inevitable course and man’s recourses, according to some residents. Garden Island.

Time-share owners have filed a federal class-action lawsuit over an assessment fee they claim was forced by a management-based board without approval of the owners. Garden Island.

Native Hawaiians on Kaua‘i will have an opportunity to provide feedback to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs at a community forum as well as at a regular OHA Board of Trustees meeting, both scheduled for Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Molokai Public Library will celebrate its 75th Anniversary with special music, hula, and dance on the front lawn, and exhibits in the library on Wednesday, May 23. Molokai Dispatch.


Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Tax hikes mulled, statewide bag ban sought, Hawaii flunks Race to the Top, teacher union vote set, Lingle, Hannemann net union endorsements, yacht resumes Molokai trips, home sales mixed, $38M rail contract awarded, 75 Kauai County jobs unfilled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Gov. Linda Lingle (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers on Monday endorsed former Gov. Linda Lingle for U.S. Senate, which gives the Republican a window into the blue-collar labor community that usually prefers Democrats. Star-Advertiser.

On Monday, the United Public Workers, Local 646 announced its endorsement of former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann to serve Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Hawaii News Now.

The state plans to tighten spending rather than increase taxes to cover a predicted $19.3 million state budget deficit in fiscal year 2013, Hawaii officials said Monday. Associated Press.

Tax increases and other revenue-generating measures are being considered by the Abercrombie administration to deal with budget shortfalls expected to top $164 million in fiscal year 2014 and grow in successive years. Star-Advertiser.

The state's recently downgraded revenues forecast won't scrap Gov. Neil Abercrombie's financial plan for this year or next. Civil Beat.

The effects of newly downgraded tax revenue projections will be “minimal” for the current state budget but will be “quite considerable and severe” in future years, causing Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s administration to at least consider the possibility of future tax increases, Budget Director Kalbert Young said today. Hawaii Reporter.

State Budget and Finance Director Kalbert Young told lawmakers Monday the Abercrombie administration is drawing up a revised six year financial plan in order to deal with long-term deficits that rise above $300 million within the next four fiscal years. KHON2.

Hawaii missed major milestones during its first year of implementing reforms under a $75 million "Race to the Top" education grant, the U.S. Department of Education said. Associated Press.

In its first year of a four-year, $75 million Race to the Top grant, Hawaii missed "the majority" of its education reform milestones, a new U.S. Department of Education report says. Star-Advertiser.

Several states that won a slice of the U.S. Department of Education's $4.3 billion Race to the Top competition have had to delay plans to implement ambitious reforms and two could possibly lose money if they don't get back on track. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association hopes to hold a ratification vote on a new six-year contract on Jan. 19. Star-Advertiser.

The tentative agreement reached by the state and the Hawaii State Teachers Association could help to save federal education funds. Hawaii News Now.

The Governor says a tentative labor deal with the teachers union should help the state secure $75 million dollars in federal "Race to the Top" money. KHON2.

With the legislative session gearing up, advocates are pushing for a statewide law to bring O`ahu into the mix and deal with some unforeseen problems the plastic bag bans created. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for January 10. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city has awarded a $38.8 million contract to Los Angeles-based AECOM Technical Services Inc. to design the rail transit project's airport segment. Star-Advertiser.

Judge: Civil Beat Can Blog Honolulu Rail Lawsuit. Civil Beat.

Honolulu officials have taken the first major step toward using the new belongings ban to remove homeless people from public sidewalks. Civil Beat.

Sun, surf and 24,000 cubic yards of sand; the state’s plan to replenish the shoreline along Waikiki requires large equipment to pump that sand from more than 1,500 feet offshore. KITV4.

State Sen. Donna Kim, a frequent critic of programs and activities at state airports, got an unpleasant surprise when she took the new shuttle service from Honolulu International Airport to her home in the Kalihi neighborhood of Honolulu. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii's slow and uneven economic recovery appeared to rub off on Oahu's housing market last year, as median prices dipped a little on relatively flat buyer demand. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island saw about a 15 percent decline in single-family home sales in December, but hardly any change in condominium sales, according to Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

A Hawaii USDA office will be closed as part of an effort to cut costs. KHON2.

Reimbursement for services -- particularly from Medicare and Medicaid -- will continue to be a top issue for Kona Community Hospital and West Hawaii physicians, a Big Island senator said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Ten Hawaii Island couples had applications for civil unions certified last week, according to the state Department of Health. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui home sales were mixed in December, while prices for both single-family homes and condominiums were down by double-digit amounts, according to the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Makawao Veterans Cemetery may reach capacity for burials in one and a half to two years, so plans are being laid for the purchase of a 10-acre adjoining property. Maui News.

The Wailuku copy and business center, Maui Business Etc, will be the site of a lunchtime “Coffee Talk with Mazie” on Wednesday, January 11. Maui Now.

Kauai

Single-family home sales on Kauai dropped more than 50 percent in December compared to the same month in 2010, according to Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

The Kaua‘i County Council in May approved — and funded — dozens of county job positions which have yet to be filled, Council Chair Jay Furfaro said Monday. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Community College opened its classrooms Monday for the start of the spring semester. Garden Island.

Molokai

American Safari Cruises (ASC) is resuming scheduled two-day stops to Molokai later this month after company officials, local protesters and state and federal authorities reached an agreement. Molokai Dispatch.


Friday, December 9, 2011

Surf's up! Lesbians sue Hawaii for right to marry, Big Island redistricting carves out incumbent, ambulance audit shows waste, inefficiency, Honolulu considers property tax overhaul, lava approaching neighborhood and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Banzai Pipeline photo courtesy Boardistan
Historic surf rolled into the Banzai Pipeline for the opening day of the Billabong Pipe Masters. Hawaii News Now.

The North Shore was pumping with wind-blown waves on Thursday that were big enough to stage the Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons surf contest — and to help realize the island fantasies of new Hawaii arrivals Air Force Staff Sgt. Joe Rucker and his wife, Dawn. Star-Advertiser.

In a political tit for tat that foreshadows Hawaii's U.S. Senate race next year, Gov. Neil Abercrombie and his predecessor Linda Lingle are clashing over who's done the better job managing the state's finances. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that the state is back on track financially, and suggested he would share quarterly reports on state spending to make the budget process more transparent. Star-Advertiser.

Two women are suing Hawaii in federal court because they want to be married and not simply have a civil union. Associated Press.

Two Honolulu women are suing Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the state health director in federal court over the state's denial of same-sex marriages. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates of the local food movement say increasing the amount of food grown across the islands could benefit the state in several ways, improving both the health and wealth of the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sens. Daniel Akaka and Daniel Inouye recently found themselves on opposite sides of controversial votes on how the United States should handle the detention of terrorism suspects, including American citizens. Civil Beat.

Hawai’I’s Charter School System will be undergoing a complete overhaul in 12-to-16 months. That’s the recommendation of a State Senate Task Force charged with developing more stringent laws and rules to govern local Charter Schools. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state organization that oversees thousands of acres of prime agricultural land and millions in income from agricultural leases spent just a little over a week in a low-key search for a new leader. KITV4.

Oahu

About 150,000 Oahu homeowners, including elderly and disabled ones, would lose their property tax exemptions if the City Council adopts politically dicey recommendations made by an advisory panel aiming to bring more equity, fairness and simplicity to the tax system. Star-Advertiser.

Only a handful of ambulances met response time guidelines, and emergency responders made as much as two hundred thousand dollars each a year due to overtime. KHON2.

The city is trying to fire two managers who oversaw a former parking manager accused by prosecutors of stealing as much as $400,000 from city parking facilities in Honolulu and Chinatown. KITV4.

State investigating claims of welfare fraud. KHON2.

Assistant Chaminade University basketball coach Mike Mathey resigned today, four days after mistakenly sending a text with a racial slur to one of his players. Hawaii News Now.

About 20 houseless people, advocates, and Occupy Honolulu supporters turned up to voice their opposition to City Council Bill 54 at Honolulu Hale on Wednesday. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

A last-minute change to the new County Council district map has saved Hilo Councilman Dennis Onishi from having to square off against fellow incumbent J Yoshimoto. West Hawaii Today.

The cost of acquiring and improving land for the Hawaii Judiciary’s Kona court complex on the Big Island varies from $4.5 million to $10.8 million, depending on which of seven sites the state chooses, according to a final environmental impact statement published Thursday in the state’s Environmental Notice. Pacific Business News.

The CEO of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is meeting with the public today and Saturday to talk about a plan to settle a decades-old claim on revenue generated by Hawaiian monarchy lands. Tribune-Herald.

The would-be developer of a South Kona project is arguing the Kona Community Plan does not apply to its proposed planned unit development. West Hawaii Today.

Astronomers have identified the future mission of the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope on Mauna Kea, if they can secure funding for it. Tribune-Herald.

Lava continues to flow through the Royal Gardens subdivision on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The state would purchase 65 acres in Waikapu for a major new Central Maui park complex, under a proposal being discussed Friday by the Board of Land and Natural Resources in Honolulu. Maui News.

A final environmental impact statement has been released for A&B Properties' 2,550-home, 545-acre development in Central Maui. Maui News.

In less than a year, the tiny Hansen's disease settlement of Kalaupapa could be the site of the ministry of not one but two Roman Catholic saints. Maui News.

Kauai
Initial University of Hawai‘i reports estimated that up to 20 million tons of tsunami debris from Japan could reach Hawaiian shores by early 2013, but new findings suggest it may start to arrive as early as next month. Garden Island.

Princeville Ranch Adventures announces the opening of its Kids’ Adventure Center. Garden Island.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Abercrombie touts record bond sale, big changes for Alexander & Baldwin, PUC eases power sales, young state lawmaker recovering from stroke, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii projected debt service
The Abercrombie administration has completed a record bond sale of nearly $1.3 billion and restructured the state's debt as part of a long-term strategy to repair the financial damage left by the recession. Star-Advertiser.

It's being hailed as a monumental milestone for the state's economy -- Hawaii's largest-ever bond sale at historically low rates. KHON2.

Hawaii's announcement of $1.3 billion in new bond money will mean state projects can move forward and that will create jobs, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday. Civil Beat.

A year ago this month, just days after his swearing in, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's ambitious plans to have a "New Day" for Hawaii fell into a budget sinkhole. Civil Beat.

Abercromie Claims Lingle Left 'Financial Wreckage'; Former Governor Fights Back. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Budget and Finance Director Kalbert Young announced Thursday, December 1 that the State sold $1.28 billion of General Obligation Bonds. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii will receive more than $14 million in federal grants to help it carry out President Barack Obama's health care overhaul. Associated Press.

The Public Utilities Commission has directed a further easing of the conditions by which alternative energy providers connect to the public utility electric grid throughout the state. Maui News.

Occupancy at Hawaii hotels rose by six percentage points last week, while average nightly room rates increased 4 percent from the same week last year, according to a report by Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Shedding a business structure rooted in Hawaii's territorial past, Alexander & Baldwin Inc. announced Thursday it will become separate companies, one focused on real estate and agriculture and the other on transportation. Star-Advertiser.

State representative Chris Lee is back on the job and feeling like himself again after a stroke landed him in a hospital bed for four days in early November. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The Transportation Security Administration said Thursday that it is investigating allegations that screeners at Honolulu International Airport have targeted Mexican travelers for extra screening. Associated Press.

One of the Transportation Security Administration officers accused of targeting Mexican travelers for extra screening at Honolulu International Airport has been promoted. KITV4.

After traveling thousands of miles across the West Pacific, the U.S.S. Chung Hoon came home to Pearl Harbor Thursday, bringing nearly 300 sailors back to loved ones. KITV4.

APEC – the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting on O’ahu ended more than 2 weeks ago … and some people are now asking, “Was APEC worth it?” The Hawai’i Society of Business Professionals hosted a panel discussion on that very topic. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

North Kona Councilman Angel Pilago said Thursday he won't seek another term, a move that ensures a new council majority when the governing body is sworn in next December. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County's multimillion-dollar Hilo recycling center should be privatized and expanded to allow mining of the adjacent landfill, says County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong. Tribune-Herald.

A provision allowing the state Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation to work on small boat harbors without permits couldn't find the votes Thursday at the Windward Planning Commission, forcing the deferral of a package of amendments to the Special Management Area. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An audit of the state-owned Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui found residents living in “substandard conditions” and “an atmosphere of intimidation and fear," according to state records released today. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

A Hanalei man with a little more than four years left to go on his five-year probation sentence was in court Tuesday to request that the terms of his probation be modified for medical marijuana use. Garden Island.


Molokai

American Safari Cruises has postponed its scheduled trips to Molokai today and Saturday after facing opposition from some residents who fear the tours could diminish fish stocks and wild game. Star-Advertiser.

Friday, October 28, 2011

Turtle rider spurs outrage, millions in social services cut, judge won't stop Maui Halloween, House poor launching pad for governors, Superferry haunts Lingle, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii turtle rider courtesy photo
An underwater photo taken of a professional surfer from Hawaii is making waves on the internet and has the full attention of federal authorities. KHON2.

A picture posted late Wednesday night on Hawaii News Now's Facebook page of a surfer riding a turtle has sparked a controversy. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. House Often a Poor Launching Pad for Governor. Governing.

The Hawaii Superferry was a major embarrassment for former Gov. Linda Lingle. Civil Beat.

Family support services, emergency shelter care, recruitment of foster families and training for social workers are among the services being reduced by the Department of Human Services in cutting $5.8 million from its budget. Star-Advertiser.

State law requires that cases of suspected physical abuse of the elderly must be reported to law enforcement, but there is no such requirement in cases of suspected financial abuse, legislators were told today. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii Sen. Daniel Akaka is proposing federal legislation that would increase the nation’s — and Hawaii’s — defenses against invasive species that threaten ecosystems and cause millions of dollars in damage to the agricultural industry. Civil Beat.

The Hawaiian Humane Society and state lawmakers are rethinking how to regulate large-scale dog breeders after a state audit concluded that bills before the Legislature are flawed and that there is no hard evidence that such dog-breeding operations continue to be a problem in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu rail transit project has reached a milestone of sorts with the approval of the first change order that will add $3.9 million to the cost of a rail contract. Star-Advertiser.

The issue of unruly fans at Aloha Stadium is back in the spotlight after a fight during last Saturday's University of Hawaii football game was witnessed by thousands of spectators.  KHON2.

Private Landowners Being Asked To Spruce Up For APEC. KITV4.

Homeless Evicted In Sweep Say They'll Be Back. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The state's Department of Human Services cut at least $178,000 from three West Hawaii community program providers this week, but the full impact of the cuts remained unclear Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

Working during the pre-dawn darkness this week, 50 volunteers searched Hilo's alleyways, parks and other secluded areas where the homeless go to sleep. Tribune-Herald.

The wekiu bug, a species native to the cinder cones of Mauna Kea, is no longer a candidate for endangered or threatened status. Tribune-Herald.

SPECIAL REPORT: Tsunami Aftermath, the future of Kona village. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently awarded nearly $165,000 to two West Hawaii nonprofits to support direct marketing efforts and increase access to fresh produce in low-income areas. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A judge won't be stopping a Lahaina Halloween celebration. Associated Press.

Second Circuit Judge Rhonda Loo today dismissed a temporary restraining order that sought to stop organized Halloween festivities from taking place on Front Street this year. Maui News.

Kauai

In these hard economic times, a large chunk of Kaua‘i’s workforce may be a mere paycheck away from becoming homeless. Garden Island.

Molokai

The proclamation to name the kioea the official bird of Kaunakakai, Molokai, was signed by Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa and Council Chair Danny Mateo on Oct. 25, making it the second district in the state to declare an official bird. Molokai Dispatch.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Lingle, Case stump in Hilo, state shuttle competes with cabs, Big Wind hits resistance, minor protests expected for APEC, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Rapid Transit courtesy photo
Ever since former Mayor Mufi Hannemann resurrected the idea of a Honolulu rail transit line in 2004, supporters and opponents of the project have sparred over the issue of how many jobs would be created during the construction phase of the $5.17 billion project. Star-Advertiser.

Two of the leading contenders seeking to succeed U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka got a taste of Hilo and its voters while on the campaign trail Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono raised more than twice as much money as rival Ed Case last quarter, as the two battle for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Daniel Akaka. West Hawaii Today.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono isn't one to smile just to break the ice. And she knows that some people say she's cold or aloof, but that's OK with her. As the 63-year-old Senate candidate puts it, she's had to "paddle (her) own canoe for a long time."  Civil Beat.

Members of the Hawaii House of Representatives will travel to Taiwan Saturday for a weeklong trip to tour governmental agencies and forge economic partnerships. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who used a number of new media tools to communicate with voters during his campaign for governor, such as livestreaming and twitter, is now being criticized by the media for being too uncommunicative. Hawaii Reporter.

Communications haven’t been a strong point for Gov. Neil Abercrombie to date and now his office has misspelled the name of the new communications director, Jim Boersema. Hawaii Reporter.


Just as it did in 2001 when the Asian Development Bank conference was held in Hawaii, the state's isolation might help limit the size of protests during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit next month, some government officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Globalizing the islands: The impact of APEC. Hawaii Independent.

The University of Hawaii is hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation's climate symposium. KHON2.

A revival of interest in geothermal energy brought key players to Waimanalo on Saturday to address the heavily Native Hawaiian community on the benefits of the renewable energy source. Civil Beat.

The state launched a 24-hour airport shuttle service Sunday that offers door-to-door rides at reasonable fees but which cab drivers say will hurt their struggling businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Karen Gleason said she never thought an eastern part of Maunalua Bay would be free of the acres of an alien alga that choked out a reef and a once-flourishing population of fish and crabs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A plan to use state road improvements funding for private subdivision thoroughfares is back on the County Council agenda Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi said Friday the county carried over $24.7 million from the 2011 fiscal year, which ended June 30. That's $10.7 million more than the administration estimated the county would have left over, Kenoi said. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Island's Kau district will be getting its first Federal Emergency Management Agency-certified shelter. Associated Press.

Maui

A proposal by the state to expand the scope of the planned Big Wind energy project to include solar and geothermal resources on Maui does not go far enough, according to two groups that opposed the original plan to put wind turbines on Lanai and Molokai. Star-Advertiser.

The Renaissance Wailea Beach Resort has sat empty for more than four years, but workers are on-site now preparing for a partial demolition and reconstruction as the Andaz Wailea Hotel. Maui News.

Kauai

Seventeen cabins in Koke‘e and Waimea state parks have been empty for a few years without anyone maintaining them and some may be beyond repair. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. brought several of his staff and department heads to Hanalei last week to speak with North Shore residents about his Holo Holo 2020 initiative. Garden Island.

Kauai County has hired a consultant to develop design alternatives for improving three bridges in Kapaa and Wailua. Star-Advertiser.

Molokai

Sen. Mike Gabbard and at least two other legislators will visit Molokai Nov. 2 to discuss the so-called “Big Wind” project with local residents, the senator confirmed today. Molokai Dispatch.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Hawaii media react to Lingle's Senate bid, Supreme Court to look at reapportionment plan, Honolulu's aging sewer stretches credit limits, Maui mulls single-member districts, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
 Oahu's high sewer and water bills, combined with more than a billion dollars of spending needed to upgrade the aging sewer system, raise "credit concerns" as the city prepares to issue a new round of waste-water revenue bonds, according to a report by Fitch Ratings.Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle's entry Tuesday in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate vaults Hawaii onto the national political map next year, opening a new front in the struggle for control in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle’s announcement Tuesday that she is seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate next year sounded like deja vu all over again. Pacific Business News.

Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has simple advice for her fellow Democrats: "You cannot take Linda Lingle lightly." Civil Beat.

Republicans will have a better chance of taking control of the 100-member U.S. Senate in 2012 if Hawaii’s Gov. Linda Lingle is elected. Hawaii Reporter.

Linda Lingle, a former two-term governor of Hawaii, entered the state's Senate race on Tuesday, giving Republicans hope of capturing the seat being vacated by Democrat Daniel Akaka, who is retiring. Associated Press.

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle, a Republican, announced on Tuesday she is running for the U.S. Senate, setting up a major statewide political showdown in the race to replace U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka, who is retiring. KITV4.

Former Governor Linda Lingle made official what's been speculated since last year - she's running for U.S. Senate. KHON2.

Call it respect or fear or something else, but when Governor Linda Lingle got into the race her opponents immediately started to attack. Hawaii News Now.

Video: Lingle talks about Senate run. Hawaii News Now.

For the first time in the state’s history, Hawaii’s primary will be held in August instead of September. KHON2.

Hawaii will join a number of other states in seeking a waiver to key provisions of the decade-old federal No Child Left Behind law, which requires that schools hit rising reading and math proficiency targets or face sanctions. Star-Advertiser.

Four Big Island Democrats, concerned that the island is being shorted a fourth Senate seat, have asked the Hawaii Supreme Court to declare a proposed state Senate reapportionment plan invalid. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island Democrats Challenge Redistricting Plan in Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

Each of the Hawaiian Islands has its own electric grid, its own mix of fuel sources, and individual strengths and vulnerabilities in terms of electrical infrastructure. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Road construction projects are expected to wrap up as off-duty police officers focus on APEC security. KITV4.

It’s a facility that will help keep the Honolulu Airport up and running no matter what. KHON2.

Keeping personal property such as furniture, clothing or household goods in public spaces such as sidewalks and parks would be banned under a proposal advancing in the City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii


A local biofuels company whose contract was just rejected by state regulators says it may take its business to the mainland. Civil Beat.

Two months after he dedicated three new water spigot sites, Mayor Billy Kenoi wants to limit how much free water people may draw from them. Tribune-Herald.

Progress on Queen Kaahumanu Highway phase 2 stalled over the summer, while state transportation officials worked out an agreement with the National Park Service and began talks with a Native Hawaiian hui. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Most members of the Maui County Charter Commission appeared unconvinced Monday that district elections for County Council seats would be an improvement over the current system of at-large elections with residency seats. Maui News.

Maui County Council members are elected at large, meaning that voters - no matter where they live in the county - cast ballots in all nine council races, if every seat were contested. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kapa‘a transfer station is scheduled for repair and maintenance work from Oct. 17 to Nov. 4, a county news release states. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank Holiday Food Drive launches today with the insertion of the food collection packages and remittance envelopes in The Garden Island newspaper. Garden Island.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Lingle to announce U.S. Senate bid, three lawmakers donate raises, new PUC commissioner, redistricting lawsuit filed, more government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle
Former Gov. Linda Lingle is expected to announce as soon as today that she will run in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate, sources say. Star- Advertiser.

Sources tell KHON2 that former Governor Linda Lingle will be making an announcement about her political future Tuesday. KHON2.

At least one Hawaii senator says he's been cutting a check back to the state each month, essentially negating the pay raise lawmakers received in 2009. And at least two other lawmakers say they've been donating their pay increases to nonprofits in their respective districts. Civil Beat.

Hawaii island Democratic Party groups have sued the state Reapportionment Commission, arguing that the inclusion of nonpermanent residents favors Oahu and denies the shifting of a state Senate seat to their island. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Human Services has sharply reduced the number of children taken into state custody each year since 2003 under a relatively new approach that DHS officials say is drawing national attention.Star-Advertiser.

New Commissioner Brings Deep Resume, Distinct Ideas to Energy Debate. Civil Beat.

Two new top advisers to Gov. Neil Abercrombie started work on Monday following the resignation of four aides in two days last week. Associated Press.

Governor Neil Abercrombie is in Asia right for the next two weeks. He left town right after four staffers announced their resignations. Hawaii News Now.

If somebody jumps ship, you really don't take notice. Even two people vaulting the gunwales isn't necessarily cause for alarm. But when there's a crowd jumping ship, something's amiss. West Hawaii Today.

Room rates for Hawaii hotels rose in August for the 14th consecutive month while occupancy statewide nudged upward by 1.8 percentage points, according to a monthly survey by Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Pro rail group pays for Honolulu officials' trip to DC. KHON2.

Former state Legislator and City Council Member Rod Tam, who pled guilty to 26 counts in November 2010, will be sentenced a year later in November 2011. Hawaii Reporter.

On average, a water main breaks every day on the Island of O’ahu …causing disruptions in service … and more often than not … damage to roads. Hawaii Public Radio.

Security measures for the November economic summit could restrict access to the popular Diamond Head state park. KITV4.

The 5,000-home Koa Ridge development plan is headed back to the state Land Use Commission for the third time in a decade. Star-Advertiser.

The concept calls for converting a shipping container into an affordable home, and then putting it on agricultural land. Hawaii News Now.

This Tuesday, October 11 is National Coming Out Day, a nationally recognized civil awareness day for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) issues. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

The Water Department is seeking to replace Manager and Chief Engineer Milton Pavao, who is retiring Dec. 30 after 39 1/2 years in the department, 17 of those as manager. West Hawaii Today.

After a roughly two-year absence, the sounds of bouncing balls, referees' whistles and children's laughter are once again coming from the A.J. Watt Gymnasium in Mountain View. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Ocean View Estates residents claim a memo from a county consultant working on the Ka'u Community Development Plan amounts to a land grab. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Dogged effort: Group hopes to improve breed’s bad reputation. Maui News.

Hot, barren and dusty . . . that's how Maui High School faculty and alumni remember the school's Kahului campus when it first opened in 1972. Maui News.
Kauai

“Howl-lelujah,” the Rev. William Miller said, welcoming people to the Blessing of the Animals on Sunday at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Kauai

“Howl-lelujah,” the Rev. William Miller said, welcoming people to the Blessing of the Animals on Sunday at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Hawaii Supreme Court: teachers can strike, Lingle behind GOP coup, HGEA backs Hirono, Army to train on Mauna Kea, shipping prices drop, coral in danger, government and politics news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court building (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
The state Supreme Court rejected Tuesday a request by the Hawaii State Teachers Association to compel the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to issue a quick ruling on whether teachers deserve immediate relief from a new two-year contract imposed by the state. Star-Advertiser.

The Supreme Court of Hawaii has ruled that the teachers union has the right to strike once its current complaint before the Labor Relations Board is resolved. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Government Employees Association, the state's largest public-sector labor union, has endorsed U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Jonah-Kuhio Kalanianaole Kaauwai 's decision to resign as chair of the Hawaii Republican Party yesterday is a victory for former Gov. Linda Lingle, and her followers, but not necessarily for local conservatives. Hawaii Reporter.

A closer examination of party finances under former chair Jonah Kaauwai shows that the Hawaii Republican Party owes tens of thousand of dollars for unpaid credit card bills and political mailers. Civil Beat.

The new chairwoman of the Maui County Republican Party said that while Jonah Kaauwai demonstrated he was a "very hardworking" and "admirable" person, his inability to raise money for campaigns led to his resignation Monday as chairman of the Hawaii Republican Party. Maui News.

Hawaii Congressional Delegation Hosts Fundraiser for House Hopeful Tammy Duckworth. Hawaii Reporter.

Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines lowered its fuel surcharge Tuesday by 3 percentage points. Pacific Business News.

The commission overseeing how the Department of Education spent federal stimulus money learned Tuesday that $115 million of it paid for teacher salaries. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii is proposing tuition increases for the entire state system beginning next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

A City Council committee has put its stamp of approval on the installation of 34 security cameras across key sections of Oahu in preparation for the arrival of 21 world leaders and their entourages for this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperative summit in Waikiki in November. Star-Advertiser.

Efforts made last week by members of Oahu’s North Shore community resulted in a stop to a proposed redistricting that would have made the Sunset Beach area a part of the Koolauloa district. Hawaii Independent.

Rail Transit Town Hall Meeting Draws Crowd. KITV4.

Hundreds of postal workers and their supporters converged at the state capitol, one of nearly 500 such rallies across the country Tuesday. KHON2.

Hawaii

A settlement reached Tuesday requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Fisheries Service to decide in about seven months whether 82 coral species will be listed as endangered or threatened. West Hawaii Today.

The state granted the Army a short-term "right-of-entry" permit to conduct high-altitude helicopter training on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on Hawaii island next month, but said if the service wants to do the training in the future, it needs to do a full state environmental impact statement, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

A geothermal development company seeking a private-public partnership for energy production on Hawaii Island will hold community meetings this week. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island business and tourism officials told state senators how the Hilo side was wasting its visitor industry potential. Tribune-Herald.

County Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd issued a preliminary subdivision plan approval for the Villages at Aina Lea, despite the revocation of the property's urban land use classification. West Hawaii Today.

Christmas is coming early for lower Puna residents wanting to participate in the legislative branch of local government. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

For now it looks like F&H Construction has won the contract to build the new Kihei Police Station, according to county Department of Finance Director Danny Agsalog. Maui News.

The inaugural flight of an emergency medical helicopter to Maui Memorial Medical Center's new $3 million helipad drew more than two dozen people Monday afternoon. Maui News.

Kauai

A controversial county Salary Commission resolution squeezed through a special Kaua‘i County Council meeting Tuesday and is on track to become law next week after a split vote. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County Councilman Mel Rapozo on Tuesday afternoon filed a complaint with the county Board of Ethics, requesting an advisory opinion on the actions of Boards and Commissions Administrator John Isobe and the county Salary Commission. Garden Island.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Hawaii Gov. Lingle takes 'serious' look at 2012 Senate seat, feds ban campaign money limits, charter school enrollment up, more on food stamps, Honolulu voter confidentiality breached, UH rally boosts voting, Hawaii Five-0 set for season, more

In a performance worthy of the excruciatingly slow decision-making process of former Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Gov. Linda Lingle is toying with a run for the U.S. Senate in 2012. Star-Advertiser.

 The two top candidates for urban Honolulu's congressional seat argued about spending for social security benefits in their last live, televised debate before the election Thursday night. KITV4.


An independent expenditure committee called Working Families For Hawaii has launched a TV ad portraying GOP congressional candidate Charles Djou as a lock-step Republican who votes to hurt Hawaii. KITV4.

The two candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District have sparred over the economy, government spending and senior citizen programs such as Social Security and Medicare. Associated Press.


 A federal court’s decision to stop the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission from enforcing a limit on contributions received by political committees doing only independent spending for political speech will remain in effect for now, according to the federal appeals court. Hawaii Reporter.

Non-partisan ‘Use Your Voice, Use Your Vote’ rally at UH Manoa raises voter awareness. Hawaii Independent.

More Hawaii working families getting government food aid. Associated Press.

Hawaii didn't fare too well in a new national survey of policies covering how mothers and expectant mothers are treated in prison. Associated Press.

Stimulus supporting state energy storage. Maui News.

Molokai General Hospital (MGH) has recently completed installation of the largest solar electricity generation system on the island. Molokai Dispatch.

Aunty Puanani Lindsey shares a pule/oli (prayer/chant) for the Earth with those joining her on weekly volunteer service trips to malama (care for) Honokowai Valley or Hanaula. Lahaina News.

Next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Honolulu is expected to generate some $120 million in economic impact for Hawaii. Associated Press.

Teen traffic deaths have declined dramatically over the past six years. KHON2.

New Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro has added three new deputy prosecutors including a former legislator who was convicted of drunken driving and the Honolulu police chief's wife. KITV4.

Former lawmaker joining Honolulu prosecutor's office. KHON2.

Hawaii Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu is taking a job in the Honolulu city prosecutor's office after an unsuccessful run for lieutenant governor. Associated Press.

The Honolulu office of elections promises to protect the confidentiality of voters who face life threatening circumstances, but Civil Beat has learned that it doesn't live up to its word. Civil Beat.

The race to represent Puna makai on the Hawaii County Council is between a colorful, two-term incumbent and a retired businessman. Tribune-Herald.

The number of students attending public charter schools statewide continued to grow this year, even though no new campuses opened, while enrollment at regular public schools was largely unchanged. Star-Advertiser.

Public school enrollment on the Big Island continued its slow decline this year. Tribune-Herald.

Ryan Ozawa may well be the most influential social media maven in Hawaii, although one is hard-pressed to get him to admit it. Hawaii Independent.

Pesky problem apparently wiped out in Maui. KHON2.

Waikiki hotels ran fuller last week despite a strike at Hilton Hawaiian Village, and occupancy also rose in Maui County, but fell on Kauai and the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

A federal bankruptcy judge in New York has approved a reorganization for General Growth Properties that will split it into two companies. Hawaii News Now.

An envisioned high-rise condominium on top of the Nordstrom parking garage at Ala Moana Center will be one project taken over by a major new player in Honolulu's condominium development scene, as part of the bankruptcy reorganization of mall owner General Growth Properties. Star-Advertiser.

Bad news for the terrorists, gang lords and street scum running amok in town: CBS Television gave "Hawaii Five-0" yesterday a full 22-episode season to fight crime. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii County Council accepted a pared-down slate of exemptions for a North Kona affordable housing development, but delayed approving the document until county officials and developers have more time to review and refine the request. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council on Wednesday approved an amended Puna Community Development Plan that's now headed to Mayor Billy Kenoi's desk. Tribune-Herald.

At Kapa‘a High School, Christine Farina has taken part in an organization to help teach her economics class what business is all about. Garden Island.

Maui County Council members voted 6-2 late Tuesday to approve the Kula Ridge project that promises to build 59 affordable homes for senior citizens and single families. Maui News.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Abercrombie catches up in money race, Lihue Airport in trouble, coffee beetle serious, judge says Lingle was right on furloughs, human trafficker bail set at $1M, lots more news

One of the worst parasites to prey upon coffee crops has been discovered on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

A beetle known asthe coffee berry borer that threatens the health of Hawaii’s coffee industry has been found on several farms in Kona on the Big Island. KHON2.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie has raised twice as much money as rival Mufi Hannemann over the last two months. Garden Island.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie raised more than double the campaign contributions of former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann over the past two months, a late surge that shows momentum for Abercrombie in the Democratic primary for governor. Star-Advertiser.

The latest Hawaii campaign spending reports due Wednesday show former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D) had a surge in contributions in the period of July 1 through Sept. 3 -- for the first time beating his well-heeled opponent Mufi Hannemann (D) in fundraising. KITV.

Democratic candidate Neil Abercrombie raised more than twice as much money as his primary opponent Mufi Hanneman from July 1 to Sept. 3, according to campaign finance reports published late Wednesday. Civil Beat.

The 6K club, part one. Honolulu Weekly.

Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Colleen Hanabusa have been busily mining the pocketbooks of politically interested individuals and interest groups in anticipation of their Nov. 2 general election showdown, according to federal records reviewed Wednesday. Associated Press.

Acting Mayor Kirk Caldwell edged former Honolulu Prosecutor Peter Carlisle in fundraising over the past two months, but Carlisle has a sizable lead in cash on hand left for the stretch in the race for mayor. Star-Advertiser.

Hot topics for candidates running for a seat in the House of Representatives. Big Island Weekly.

A federal judge set bail at $1 million Wednesday for the CEO of a labor recruiting company accused of exploiting 400 workers from Thailand and forcing them to work on U.S. farms. Associated Press.

KITV 4 News has learned federal immigration officials want to detain the man at the center of the largest human trafficking case in U.S. history, which could keep him behind bars even though a federal magistrate in Honolulu ruled Wednesday he could be freed on $1 million bail. KITV.

The Hawaii Supreme Court today ruled in favor of Governor Linda Lingle in her appeal of HGEA v. Lingle, a case that stopped her from implementing a furlough plan. Hawaii Reporter.

A state judge should not have blocked Gov. Linda Lingle's unilateral plan to impose furloughs on state workers last year, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

A big jump in hotel tax collections is helping get the 2011 fiscal year off to a good start. KHON2.

There are signs in Oahu's housing market that the pendulum is beginning to swing back in favor of sellers. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of West Hawaii residents Tuesday voiced concerns over a new management strategy proposed by the state for Kealakekua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

The former Kulani prison could become a training base for a 150-soldier company to learn how to detect roadside bombs, perform emergency aerial evacuations and make forced entries into buildings. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has reached into a related department to fill the vacancy created by the resignation earlier this summer of Environmental Management Director Lono Tyson. West Hawaii Today.

Maui County's official website has been named one of the Best of the Web. KITV.

Hearing passionate pleas for Upcountry water meters, the Maui County Council Water Resources Committee expressed support for an outright purchase of a privately developed well in Makawao that could cost about $8 million. Maui News.

Management problems persist at Lihu‘e Airport despite ‘coaching’ Garden Island.

Some say it’s the end of free trash pick-up.Garden Island.

A Lahaina voter is challenging Maui County Council Chairman Danny Mateo’s re-election bid, arguing another full term would exceed the five-term limit. Molokai Dispatch.

Hamakua land EIS completed though sale is off. West Hawaii Today.