Showing posts with label Hawaiian sovereignty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hawaiian sovereignty. Show all posts

Monday, July 31, 2023

Big plans to save Waikiki from ocean waves, Ethics Commission: OHA trustee's daughter can't work for him anymore, Honolulu rethinking condo sprinkler law, yacht owners fined $117k for Maui grounding, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Local Orchid Farmers Grateful to Those Buying Local. Hilo's Orchid Show has been a local fixture since before World War II. The Hilo Orchid Society says there's been breaks for wartime, also COVID, and lots has changed in the last century. KITV4.

OHA trustee denied exemption from anti-nepotism law. 
The first request for an exemption from the state’s new anti-nepotism law — submitted by Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee Brickwood Galuteria, who supervises his daughter — has been denied by the Hawaii Ethics Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public schools’ safety vulnerabilities outlined by DOE.  Vulnerability assessments at Hawaii’s public schools have progressed at a slow pace, with only 140 of the state’s 258 regular public school campuses formally evaluated since 2017 for problems that could make them more vulnerable to a potential active shooter. Star-Advertiser.

Access to Hawaii public school campus assessments impeded. Periodic requests over the past year by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser to accompany Hawaii public school officials on “campus vulnerability assessments” have all been denied, and requests to view documents from the campus assessments already conducted remain at an impasse. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii housing emergency order to ‘unstick’ local government projects.  One reason Gov. Josh Green enacted an emergency proclamation to speed up residential development in Hawaii was the historically slow pace of state and county affordable-­housing projects. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i Tourism Authority names new board chair, vice chair.  The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority Board of Directors selected airline industry veteran Blaine Miyasato as its new chair and educator and social entrepreneur Mahina Paishon Duarte as its new vice chair.  Maui Now.

Hawaii Tourism Authority to focus on destination stewardship. The Hawaii Tourism Authority board, which has increasingly come under pressure from the community and state lawmakers to manage tourism, voted Thursday to support a reorganization that creates a Destination Stewardship Branch, elevates the agency’s finance and planning departments, and expands personnel. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds gather to mark the 180th anniversary of Sovereignty Restoration Day.  Hundreds gathered at Thomas Square on Sunday to celebrate La Hoihoi Ea — Hawaiian Sovereignty Restoration Day — with the official holiday taking place on Monday.  The holiday marks King Kamehameha III finally regaining control of the Hawaiian Kingdom after the British illegally took control of the islands for five months. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Oahu

Major plans for Waikiki aim to save it from waves, flooding.  The Waikiki shoreline stretches from Duke Kaha­namoku Beach to Kaimana Beach, a stretch of about two miles, or 10,260 feet of coastline.  Star-Advertiser.

Council chair pressured to rescind costly condo fire sprinkler law.  Condominium associations are lobbying Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters to repeal a law that requires high-rise condos to install costly fire sprinkler systems, prompting Waters to seek input from the Waikiki Neighborhood Board. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates see gains in efforts to reclaim Makua Valley from Army.  The valley is one of the most controversial of the military’s training grounds in the islands, and holds particular significance for Hawaiian cultural practitioners. In Hawaiian, “makua” means “parent,” and the valley is considered the place where human life was first created, according to oral tradition. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Changed Bus Routes To Accommodate The Rail. But Many Passengers Say No Thanks. City transportation officials say the goal is "one integrated system." But the changes have made commutes more difficult in some cases. Civil Beat.

A month into operation, here’s how many people are riding Honolulu’s rail line daily.  After one month of operation for Oahu’s Skyline, daily ridership numbers have fallen substantially since its opening weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Zoo ticket prices increase to meet growing costs.  For the first time in over a decade, the Honolulu Zoo has increased its admission fees.  Tickets for general admission adults are now $21, while general admission for children age 3 to 12 is $13.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Why Some Hawaiian Homesteaders Pay 6 Times More Than County Users For Water. DHHL hopes to use some of the $600 million appropriated for homelands last year to improve infrastructure, including water access. Civil Beat.

County receives new copter courtesy of the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation. Thanks to a donation from the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation, through generous benefactors, Hawaii County will become a safer place with a new fire department helicopter. West Hawaii Today.

Keawe Street business owners lament loss of sales during daytime road work.  Construction on Keawe Street in downtown Hilo will be ongoing until April 2024. Hawaii County crews are upgrading the gas, sewer and water infrastructure along Keawe, and the work is requiring the closure of parking spaces and traffic lanes from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Trust fined $117K in Maui yacht grounding, owner could face further penalty. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has voted to accept a $117,000 fine against the trust that was involved in the yacht grounding incident on Maui, but said that it wants to continue deliberating on a penalty against the operator of the yacht and his luxury yacht charter service. Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Maui Now.

Lanai Ferry Seeks Higher Ticket Fare For The First Time In 15 Years. The public can weigh in next month on whether state regulators should approve the proposed 37% increase. Civil Beat.

Betty’s Beach Cafe in Lahaina closes due to roach infestation.  Several other critical violations were observed, so a yellow “conditional pass” placard was posted.  Maui News.

Kauai

Waimea Public Library reopens after 18-month renovation project.  Waimea Public Library is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from noon to 4 p.m., then again from 5 to 7 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon, and then from 1 to 4 p.m., and Friday hours are from noon to 4 p.m. The library is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Garden Island.

First installment of real property taxes due Aug. 21.  Payments can be made online at https://kauairpt.ehawaii.gov, by mail, in person or at the drop box located outside the Kapulē Building at the Līhu‘e Civic Center.  Kauai Now.

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Tourist tracking app proposed, militant Hawaiian sovereignty member sentenced for threats against government officials, DOE returns millions not used for local food programs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourist tracking app could be part of Hawaii visitor management plan. Hawaii hosts about 10 million visitors a year, and they often tend to go to the same locations — so crowds and traffic can make the experience unpleasant. But lawmakers and the CNHA, which one the destination stewardship contract from the Hawaii Tourism Authority say a smart phone app could be the key. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii DOE Has Returned Millions Of Dollars That Could Have Bought Local Food.
Hawaii's congressional delegation wants to know why the money it fights for is not being used by the Department of Education. The Department of Education has blamed miscommunication as the reason it failed to use $650,000 in federal money meant to assist schools in buying local food. In 2022 the DOE handed back just over $1.1 million in federal funds allocated under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, a program designed to feed and educate children about their food. Civil Beat.

Man who threatened government officials gets 37 months.
A 44-year-old man found guilty of posting social media threats to behead then-Lt. Gov. Josh Green, Mayor Rick Blangiardi and the Waianae Small Boat Harbor master following a dispute over nonpayment of $30,000 in mooring fees by the leader of a militant Hawaiian sovereignty group was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Green signs bills to regulate domestic abuse interventions, restraining orders. Green signed two bills on Friday that would amend referral requirements for restraining orders to only when alleged child abuse allegations arise and would require court-ordered interventions, or anger management, for certain criminal offenders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sustainable aviation fuel produced in Hawaiʻi expected by 2025. Since about half of the state's petroleum use comes from aviation, local companies Pono Pacific and Par Hawaiʻi plan to collaborate on a Hawaiʻi-based sustainable airplane fuel. Hawaii Public Radio.

New invasive species imperils Hawai‘i’s aquatic ecosystem.
A multi-agency working group has discovered a new invasive species off Hawai‘i’s coastline that threatens to upend the island chain’s marine ecosystem by outcompeting and suffocating its coral reefs. Garden Island.

Where have all the workers gone? Hawaii’s chief economist explains. “Now hiring” signs are now a common sight around Oahu and Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu


Plan for new Oahu jail gets partial, delayed funding
. Hawaii lawmakers included $10 million in their budget bill for the state Department of Public Safety to continue planning and design work on a replacement for Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

‘180 Degrees’ Different: Former HPD Chief Louis Kealoha Is Telling His Side Of The Story. A soon-to-be released book by a former TV reporter asks readers to view a notorious corruption scandal through a new lens. Civil Beat.

‘What should the public expect?’ Concerns over access to rail station sparks action. The first phase of the Honolulu rail system will take passengers from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, but a stop along the way is raising concerns among the community. KHON2.

Military Team Seeks To Drain 100M Gallons Of Fuel From Red Hill Without ‘A Single Drop’
Leaking. Amid pressure to act quickly, the Joint Task Force says it's preparing for worst-case scenarios and proceeding with caution. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Outrigger expands again, purchases Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel. Outrigger Hospitality Group announced Tuesday that it is acquiring the Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel — its sixth beach resort purchase over the past two years. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island


Hilo nursing home says it is clear of active COVID cases. The 252-bed nursing home recently suffered from an outbreak that was reported to the Hawaii Department of Health in early April, with 93 cases, including 76 residents and 17 staff. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Island nonprofit loses funding for housing mediation program. The West Hawaiʻi Mediation Center on Hawaiʻi Island received a state grant for a new restorative justice program but won’t get funding renewed for its popular landlord-tenant mediation program.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Gymnastic reprieve. In a July 2021 Special Permit Application, Kona Aerial Gymnastic Team Inc. submitted documentation stating the use of an existing agricultural warehouse structure located off Hualalai Road, approximately 700 feet east from its intersection with Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway for gymnastics classes and fitness training, which is currently ongoing in violation of the parcel’s zoning. West Hawaii Today.

DLNR IDs women cited for illegally feeding Waikoloa feral cats. The Department of Land and Natural Resources on Tuesday released the names of the two women cited by state conservation officers April 18 during a protest by feral cat activists at Queens’ Marketplace Shopping Center. Tribune-Herald.

Roundabout slated for Hilo: Work on project could start in 2025. The long-anticipated project would reconfigure the intersection between Bayfront Highway, Kamehameha Avenue and Waianuenue Avenue in an effort to mitigate traffic congestion at the northern entrance into town. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County May Buy The Lanai Passenger Ferry. The privately owned ferry service is a critical mode of transportation for the island's 3,000 residents. A ferry service that’s a vital link for Lanai residents traveling to and from Maui for work and medical appointments may sell its assets, creating uncertainty about the future of travel on the tiny island. Civil Beat.

April’s hotel occupancy, revenue down from 2022.
Occupancy at the county’s hotels was at 65.4 percent in April, 6.8 percentage points lower than the 72.2 percent occupancy seen at the same time in 2022, according to the Hawaii Hotel Performance Report released last week.  Maui News.

Nexamp to update community on proposed shared solar project, Lipoa Solar. Nexamp will share information about its Community Based Renewable Energy (CBRE) shared solar project proposed to be built mauka of Pi’ilani Highway in Kīhei above the Maui Research and Technology Park. Maui Now.

Rockfall threat shuts down portion of key highway on Maui.   A small portion of Hana Highway will be closed for up to one month, Maui County officials announced Tuesday. This comes after recent rockfall damaged the road in Kipahulu and smashed through the windshield of a car. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Liquor license renewals due June 30.  The deadline to renew liquor licenses for Fiscal Year 2023-24 is on June 30 at 4:30 p.m., according to the Kaua‘i Department of Liquor Control. Kauai Now.

Now that rats are eradicated at Palmyra Atoll, seabird ‘discotheques,’ decoys result in chick. A tiny grey-backed tern chick has been observed at Palmyra Atoll, validating that seabird attraction efforts are working, according to The Nature Conservancy of Hawai‘i and Palmyra. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Interior Department creates Hawaiian consultation process, keeping an eye on North Korea, Hilo loses only direct mainland flight, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

cpyright 2022 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Albert Kahiwahiwaokalani Haa Jr. speaks at 2014 Department of the Interior listening session  ©2022 All Hawaii News
Feds’ consultation process will put Native Hawaiians on par with Indian tribes. The Department of the Interior announced Tuesday it will require a process of formal consultation with the Native Hawaiian community on any actions it proposes that have a substantial direct effect on the community. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News Maui Now.  Civil Beat.

$1M in federal funding secured for cultural education for visitors. Seven local organizations will split $1 million in federal funding to continue cultural education programs for tourists. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ige ‘racing to the finish’ with to-do list for final weeks in office. Gov. David Ige says he’s got a sense of urgency as he’s trying to finish last-minute business in his final 48 days in office. Hawaii News Now.

Historic year of North Korean missile tests raises Pacific tensions. In just the past two months, North Korea has fired more than a dozen missiles. The most recent flurry of missile tests coincides with fears of further escalation in the war in Ukraine and increased tension between China and Taiwan.  Star-Advertiser.

Report: Hawaiʻi has highest hotel revenue per business in the US. According to the data, Hawaiʻi hotel businesses make up .55% of the total businesses in the state. Hawaiʻi hotel businesses also employ 40,067 people, an average of 4,067 per company. Maui Now.

Supporters of breadfruit want more government help to cultivate agriculture industry. Farmers, educators, researchers, and entrepreneurs from across the Pacific gathered to discuss the benefits of crops like bread fruit that could help address food security and sustainability concerns. The National Tropic Breadfruit Institute co-hosted the 2022 Global Breadfruit Summit at the Hawaii Convention Center on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council committee postpones audit of planning department. The Honolulu City Council postponed considering initiating a comprehensive city audit on the Department of Planning and Permitting to give the agency two months to solve some of its issues, such as delayed permits. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Navy says it’s legally barred from paying state’s $8.7M fine for wastewater violations. The Navy is contesting an $8.7 million fine for Clean Water Act violations and alleged deficiencies at its Pearl Harbor-­Hickam wastewater treatment system, arguing that the penalty levied by the state Department of Health is legally prohibited because the state is barred from seeking punitive fines. Star-Advertiser.

2 water mains repaired, more work underway, Navy says. The Navy has repaired two of four water mains that broke since Friday, though the first and largest one to crack remains unfixed. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Panel Report: Start Over On Plan For A New Oahu Jail. A newly formed panel of prison and jail reformers that includes state Supreme Court Associate Justice Michael Wilson is wading into the controversy over plans for an expensive new jail at Halawa, and is urging corrections officials to start the entire planning process over. Civil Beat.

Former University of Hawaii employee charged after alleged death threats.
Claire R. Chun worked at the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Information Technology Services Department since 2011 and resigned Sept. 19, according to the university. Star-Advertiser.

Haiku Stairs hikers require rescues
. The Honolulu Fire Department has rescued 118 people on Haiku Stairs in the last 12 years. The popular trail, also known as Stairway to Heaven, has been a point of contention in the windward community for years. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hilo is about to lose its last direct flight to the mainland. United Airlines to end direct flights from Hilo to L.A. United Airlines is set to end Hilo International Airport’s only direct route to the mainland. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Panel pans tax cap for nonresidential properties. Bill 156, introduced by Hilo Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy proposed the cap for apartment, hotel and resort, commercial, industrial, agricultural or native forests and conservation assessments. West Hawaii Today.

Meeting finds no quick fix for animal control concerns. No immediate solutions were forthcoming after a Tuesday discussion about the woes facing Hawaii County’s animal control operations. Tribune-Herald.

Few residents turn out for Puna wastewater meeting. A scoping meeting last week at Keaau High School about the future of wastewater treatment services for Puna residents drew fewer audience members than government officials and consultants. Tribune-Herald.

Volcano Golf Course clubhouse to be razed. The fire-gutted Volcano Golf Course clubhouse is being demolished after three years of disuse. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Victorino signs Bill 107 to change the formula used to price affordable homes. Councilmember Gabe Johnson introduced the bill after years of hearing community concerns that even “affordable homes” were too expensive for Maui County’s working families to become homeowners. Maui Now.

Should Cost Of Maui Charter Amendments Be Made Public Before Election Day? Voters will decide on a proposal that would require the county auditor to calculate cost estimates of proposed charter amendments before they go on the ballot. Civil Beat.

Delay in Maui County program that allows homeless to sleep in cars overnight stirs concern. It’s been more than a month since Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino eagerly announced that homeless individuals would be allowed to sleep in their cars and vans in the parking lot of the Cameron Center in Wailuku. Hawaii News Now.

Airline agreement to streamline flight purchases for passengers. A new agreement between Hawaiian Airlines and Southern Airways, which owns Mokulele Airlines, will help streamline bookings and connections for passengers who often have to make multiple purchases when flying out of state from airports like Molokai and Lanai. Maui News

West Maui Hospital developer seeks $7M to help cover costs. Years in the making, hospital has support but has run into financing problems. Maui News.

Why This Hawaiian Island Has To Outsource Psychiatric Care. For the first time since 1990, the state agency that provides care to adults diagnosed with a serious mental illness has no staff on Lanai. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kauai Plans For Sea Level Rise With New Building Standards. The county became the state’s first municipality to regulate construction based on flood projections spurred by sea level rise. Civil Beat. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

Recovered shearwaters released back into the wild. A pair of fledgling ‘a‘o, or Newell’s shearwaters, were honored guests poised to leave the annual Ho‘opomaika‘i ‘ia na Manu ‘A‘o Tuesday with students from Island School participating with Kumu Sabra Kauka, and invited guests including Capt. Brett Stevenson of the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Missile Range Facility at Barking Sands and other selected individuals from PMRF, members of the Kaua‘i County Council and the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation. Garden Island.

Friday, January 18, 2019

Sovereignty group members arrested after storming OHA, hundreds mark Hawaiian Kingdom overthrow at Iolani Palace, Cayetano hospitalized for heart problems, Tulsi Gabbard apologizes for anti-gay stance, Peter Boy's mother dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Facebook photo Andre Perez
Office of Hawaiian Affairs PC: Andre Perez Facebook photo
Sovereignty group storms OHA. Five people were arrested Thursday after a radical sovereignty group muscled its way into the Honolulu headquarters of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on the anniversary of the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. Star-Advertiser.

5 arrested after members of sovereignty group storm OHA offices. At least five people were arrested Thursday after a self-proclaimed Polynesian sovereignty group stormed OHA’s office on Nimitz Highway, prompting an hours-long lockdown. Hawaii News Now.

Four Men Arrested For Assault After OHA Office Occupied. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says some of its staff members were forcibly removed from the lobby by 12 people. Associated Press.

Five men arrested for storming Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs was locked down for a couple of hours after a self-proclaimed sovereignty group occupied the facility. KHON2.

Hawaiian group attempts to overtake OHA offices: Five men arrested. Those arrested were booked for third-degree assault, an their bail was set at $100 each. KITV.

Native Hawaiians have mixed reactions to OHA occupation. KHON2.

Hundreds gathered at Iolani Palace on Thursday to commemorate 126 years since the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The overthrow happened on Jan. 17, 1893. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds march to mark 126th anniversary of overthrow. Hundreds marched in solidarity Thursday to commemorate the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. KITV.

OHA’s Own Audit Is Being Blocked — By People At OHA. The internal audit is supposed to identify areas where the Office of Hawaiian Affairs might be vulnerable to fraud and waste. Civil Beat.

=====

Cayetano hospitalized after suffering heart condition. Former Gov. Ben Cayetano is recovering in the hospital after suffering a rare but dangerous heart condition earlier this week. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Gabbard Apologizes In Video For Past Statements On Gay Rights. She released the video in response to criticism since she declared her candidacy for president. Associated Press.

Tulsi Gabbard releases video apology for past hurtful LGBTQ statements. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, who last week announced she was running for president, apologized today for her record of anti-gay rhetoric and her past work for an anti-gay advocacy group — issues that have emerged as an early obstacle as she pursues a long-shot bid for the Democratic Party’s nomination. New York Times.

Hawaii Congresswoman and presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard is apologizing for past beliefs and comments that she said were “wrong, and worse, hurtful to people in the LGBTQ+ community and their loved ones.” Hawaii News Now.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard apologizes to LGBTQ community for earlier views. Gabbard's father ran The Alliance for Traditional Marriage, a political action committee aimed at opposing pro-gay lawmakers and legislation. KITV.

Less than a week after U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard confirmed she would be running for President of the United States in 2020, the Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii has posted her first video apology to social media. Big Island Video News.

=====

A Hawaii businessman has been charged with bribing state employees and officials in the Federated States of Micronesia in order to receive multi-million dollar government contracts. Frank James Lyon, of LYON Associates Inc. in Honolulu, allegedly bribed the Hawaii government workers with at least $240,000 in order to land a $2.5 million contract, according to a federal court filing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii School Superintendent’s Contract Extended For One Year. Some education advocates are concerned that the evaluation of Christina Kishimoto wasn’t tied more closely to data about school performance. Civil Beat.

School Board votes to extend Superintendent's contract. The Hawaii Board of Education voted to extend the School Superintendent Christina Kishimoto's contract by a year. KITV.

Fighting Climate Change Will Cost The State Millions. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources says money is urgently needed to protect beaches, watersheds, native species and more. Civil Beat.

The use of e-cigarettes among high school teens in Hawai’i is two times higher than the national average, according to the latest surveys.  And, the state legislature will be asked again to tighten Hawaii laws this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate rose in December for the fourth straight month as evidence mounted that economic growth in the state is slowing. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The agency constructing the $9 billion Honolulu rail project violated state procurement law multiple times, according to a report by the city auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Rail Project Director Doesn’t Fully Meet Expectations — But Still Gets A Bonus. Andrew Robbins has proven a “quick study” in his first year leading the project but needs to improve, according to his job evaluation. Civil Beat.

Rail CEO won’t see a raise this year, but he did get a hefty bonus. The chief executive of Honolulu’s rail transit project won’t get a raise this year, but the rail authority’s board did vote to give Andrew Robbins a $10,000 bonus. Hawaii News Now.

The board of directors of the Honolulu rail authority granted CEO Andrew Robbins a $10,000 bonus Thursday as part of his evaluation for his first year on the job but declined to give him a pay increase. Star-Advertiser.

=====

City, Kealohas battle over secrecy of ethics investigation evidence. The city is going to court to protect evidence uncovered by ethics investigations of Kathy and Louis Kealoha. It's findings that later played a role in the ongoing federal criminal investigation. KHON2.

Dozens of government workers and union supporters gathered Thursday morning at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport for a silent march to protest the partial government shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

Oceangoers spotted walking on sperm whale carcass off Oahu. Video captured Wednesday shows a swimmer climbing on the carcass and then falling into the water. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser forms exposition, trade fair division. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser is expanding its line of expositions and trade fairs through a new events division, Star Events. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The County Council has resurrected an old general excise tax hike that was postponed last May and put it on Wednesday’s council agenda for consideration. But officials say it’s on the agenda only as a procedural move, because the previous council in May had postponed it to the second council meeting in January. West Hawaii Today.

New leadership: Maui Electric Co.’s president will also oversee HELCO as Jay Ignacio retires. Hawaiian Electric is appointing one person to lead its Hawaii Island and Maui subsidiaries as the private power utility seeks to consolidate administrative positions. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed 11-unit condominium on the makai side of Alii Drive is moving forward again, but some residents are speaking out about it and one petition for standing in a contested case hearing has already been filed in the case. West Hawaii Today.

Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commissioners recently got an update on the status of the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in South Kona, which was identified by the commission as the number 2 priority for acquisition in its 2018 Report to the Mayor. Big Island Video News.

Jaylin Kema, mother of ‘Peter Boy,’ dead at 48. Jaylin Kema, the mother of fatal child abuse victim Peter Kema Jr., aka “Peter Boy,” died Wednesday night. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Servco Lexus Maui and Servco Subaru Maui held a blessing and grand opening ceremony for its new dual dealership location in Kahului at the Maui Business Park II. Maui Now.

Beginning in February, Maui County girls ages 11 to 17 may join the Boy Scouts, part of a nationwide change that began in October 2017 when the Boy Scouts announced that it would accept girls into the program. Maui News.

Kauai

Many hands have removed large amounts of the invasive aquatic plant salvinia from the Kilauea River over the past few years, but nature’s April flooding really swept it downstream. Garden Island.

Director sought for Grove Farm Museum. Garden Island.

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Gov. Ige ahead 21 percentage points in poll, Honolulu moves closer to property taxes for rail, Danner arrested at Kauai Native Hawaiian encampment, Maui rescinds $100k grant for council aide, no tax break for lava-impacted businesses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Ige, Tupola ©2018 All Hawaii News
Civil Beat Poll: Voters Want Ige To Stick Around As Hawaii’s Governor. Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola trails by 21 percentage points among likely Hawaii voters in the latest survey. Civil Beat.

Commission Doubles Fines For First-Time Campaign Spending Violators. New penalties were levied against 25 candidates and committees.Candidates who violate campaign finance laws will face stiffer penalties after a state commission voted to double some fines for first-time offenders Wednesday. Civil Beat.

State aquaculture sales in ’17 held steady at $76.4 million. Hawaii’s aquaculture industry needed fewer workers last year but maintained sales close to a 2014 peak, according to a recent federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City council takes one step closer to dipping into property taxes for rail. A proposal that allows the city to use property taxes to pay for the rail project moved forward today at city council and is one step closer to becoming reality. KHON2.

Council advances bill to raise $44M for rail from city bonds. A bill allowing $44 million in city money to be used to help pay for the $8 billion-plus rail project won preliminary approval from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Strange Intersection Of A Rail Deadline And City Council Politics. The incumbent has stalled council bills considered crucial for the project, while the challenger is a close ally of the mayor who leads the charge for rail. Civil Beat.

Class-action lawsuit alleges city negligence worsened East Honolulu flooding. A group of East Honolulu residents are taking the city to court, saying its negligence contributed to historic flooding in April that did millions of dollars in damages to Oahu homes. Hawaii News Now.

City of Honolulu sued over April floods. The City and County of Honolulu now faces a lawsuit stemming from April floods, that damaged hundreds of East Oahu homes. KITV.

State department head sues city over flood damage. The head of the state Public Housing Authority is suing the city. KHON2.

Commission gets tough on ‘monster homes’. Honolulu Planning Commission members unanimously endorsed a draft bill Wednesday that is tougher than what the city Department of Planning and Permitting proposed. Star-Advertiser.

Contractors complain city’s permitting delays are forcing workforce lay-offs. Permitting department pledges to find ways to improve. Hawaii News Now.

Why Are City Lawmakers Involved In This Lobbyist’s Backyard Tiff? Alicia Maluafiti’s dog kennels are upsetting her Ewa Beach neighbors. Now City Council Chair Ernie Martin has introduced a bill that would legalize them. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council candidate Tommy Waters claims smear campaign against him and supporters. Those who support former representative Waters say they are being targeted by people who oppose their candidate. KITV.

Greenpeace’s historic ship in Honolulu after studying Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Officials will also host tours to highlight the threat of plastic pollution. Hawaii News Now.

Wife, daughter of HPD lieutenant perish in Kaimuki fire. Honolulu Police Lt. Nathan Wharton, the husband and father of the victims, was not home at the time of the fire. Star-Advertiser.

Man challenges conviction for killing friend, claims Hawaiian sovereignty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council rejects tax relief for Pahoa, Volcano. Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara was unable to muster support Wednesday for a resolution seeking to provide tax relief for commercial properties in Pahoa and Volcano. Tribune-Herald.

DWS hopeful Honokohau deep well to return to service by end of October. North Kona has been without four of its 14 water sources for months, but the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply believes it will revise that ratio in the coming days. West Hawaii Today.

A pedestrian trail that meanders from Kohala Lighthouse to recently acquired county land at Kapanaia Road now belongs to the public, with the County Council on Wednesday unanimously accepting an easement as part of a 2002 settlement agreement with a developer. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo doctor, four of his employees arrested for alleged drug trafficking. Dr. Ernest Bade was apprehended at his clinic at 260 Osorio Lane in Hilo by U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency officers and Hawaii County deputies Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council Planning Committee on Tuesday advanced a bill to regulate the Big Island’s short-term vacation rentals. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County officials terminated a $100,000 grant awarded to an executive assistant of Council Member Alika Atay for events celebrating Queen Kaahumanu’s 250th birthday and now will take over reviews and payments of $46,000 in outstanding receipts owed to vendors. Maui News.

The Maui County Planning Department will hold two more meetings—Oct. 18 and Oct. 23, 2018—on its proposed revisions to the Maui Planning Commission’s rules on Special Management Area (SMA) permits and the shoreline area. Maui Now.

The Maui County Department of Public Works will hold a community meeting Oct. 30, 2018, to discuss shoreline erosion along Lower Honoapiilani Road at Kaopala Bay in Kahana. Maui Now.

The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua in Maui has sold for almost $1 million a room — one of the state’s highest hotel sales on a per-room basis ever. Star-Advertiser.

Sale of Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui to Blackstone closes. Pacific Business News.

Rock icon Steven Tyler to perform for one night only on Maui. The lead singer of Aerosmith will play on Dec. 27. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Prominent Native Hawaiian activist Robin Danner and her son were arrested Wednesday during a confrontation with state Department of Hawaiian Home Land enforcement officers and officers of the Kauai Police Department over a disputed campsite near Anahola Beach Park. Garden Island.

The state Department of Health canceled a brown water advisory Monday, the first of several that had been in effect since Aug. 31, just days after remnants of Hurricane Lane drenched the islands. Garden Island.

Thursday, September 6, 2018

Jaggar Museum, popular volcano overlook unlikely to reopen, groups sue to stop gut-and-replace bills, vacation rental bill draws fire in Honolulu, House leaders balk at special session for volcano, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

cpyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Kilauea volcano overlook in better days ©2018 All Hawaii News
‘Highly unlikely’ Jaggar Museum will reopen. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park announced some of its exhibits will be displayed in Pahoa as it casts more doubt on Jaggar Museum reopening. Tribune-Herald.

Severely damaged Jaggar Museum may have to relocate. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park announced today that it plans to loan some items from Jaggar Museum to a proposed visitor center in downtown Pahoa, thanks to a partnership with a non-profit called the Mainstreet Pahoa Association. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park announced a partnership with Mainstreet Pahoa Association. There are ongoing discussions to loan exhibit features from Jaggar Museum to a proposed visitor center site in downtown Pahoa. KHON2.

=====

Groups sue to stop ‘gut and replace’ at Hawaii Legislature. Two government watchdog groups today sued Hawaii for enacting legislation without giving the public the proper chance to weigh in. Associated Press.

A judge is expected to rule Friday on a motion by Hawaii’s four counties to remove a question from November election ballots that would allow voters to amend the Hawaii Constitution and give the state authority to tax investment real estate to support public education. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii DOE Looks To Strengthen Its Student Discipline Code. The state was told in January its administrative law does not comply with federal anti-discrimination regulations. Civil Beat.

Hurricane Norman is forecast to pass about 200 miles northeast of the Hawaiian Islands on Thursday and Friday, forecasters say. The storm remains a major Category 3 hurricane, and is pushing up surf across the island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Royal Hawaiian Feather Cloak Feared Lost in Brazil Museum Fire. Officials estimate 90 percent of the museum’s 20 million artifacts burned in Sunday’s fire. Hawaii Public Radio.

Anthropologists with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency have photographed and cataloged the skeletal remains that were in 55 boxes North Korea returned to the United States last month. Hawaii News Now.

French banking giant BNP Paribas, which at one time owned all of First Hawaiian Bank, plans to reduce its stake in the state’s largest financial institution to under 20 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Home sales and the median price of homes mostly rose on the Big Island and Kauai in August, according to local real estate agent trade association data released Wednesday by Hawaii Information Service. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Most of the nearly 50 people who testified on Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposed short-term vacation rental bill Wednesday found something to dislike about it. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s tourism and entertainment hub endures an epidemic of beach thefts, random spikes in violent crimes and an understaffed police force. Here’s what’s being done to counter crime in Waikiki. Hawaii Business.

Critics of Oahu's 'sit-lie' bans say they have new ammunition after the federal appeals court ruled laws meant to get homeless people off sidewalks may violate their rights. Hawaii News Now.

A first-of-its-kind homeless shelter geared towards young people has opened at the Kawailoa Youth and Family Wellness Center in Kailua. Hawaii News Now.

Mental capacity at core of Kawananakoa case. The Honolulu tax attorney who drafted Abigail Kawananakoa’s $215 million trust says the Campbell Estate heiress was always adamant about protecting the largest part of her estate for the Native Hawaiian community. Star-Advertiser.

The state won't be issuing any more vehicle permits for the public to access Kaena Point for the rest of 2018. That's because permits have already reached the annual cap. Hawaii News Now.

From now until November, you’ll find orange tape closing off three Honolulu parks in the Moiliili area. City crews say they’ll be giving Moiliili Community Park, The Old Stadium Park, and Crane Park a face-lift over the next two months. KITV.

Honolulu police raided an alleged gambling operation in McCully Wednesday evening. Hawaii News Now.

HCDA Considering Complete Restoration of 90 Year-Old Kakaako Building. Amid all the high-rise developments in Kakaako, one property owner has decided to turn the clock back 90 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Company linked to Patagonia sportswear founder to restore 90-year-old Kakaako warehouse. Star-Advertiser.

Median home price on Oahu passes $800K to hit new record. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County officials met House lawmakers at the state Capitol on Wednesday to urge them to convene a special session to provide another $17.4 million in state funding for the county’s “immediate needs” for recovery from the damage done by Kilauea Volcano lava. Star-Advertiser.

Crowd comes out to support Ruggles. West Hawaii Today.

A cone within a cone? USGS says fissure 8 has formed a new feature. Hawaii News Now.

Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West announced that SBA has approved more than $30 million in federal disaster loans for Hawaii businesses and residents impacted by the Kilauea volcanic eruption and earthquakes. Maui Now.

Improvements to the drainage system on the Kuawa ball fields have been completed, and the long-awaited park is anticipated to open early next year, county Parks and Recreation officials said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo has been ranked the most diverse four-year public university in the nation by The Chronicle of Higher Education. Tribune-Herald.

Condominium sales on the Big Island of Hawaii rose by more than 30 percent in August and the median price increased 10 percent, while sales and prices for single-family homes declined, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Tourism strategic plan is launched. Illegal vacation rentals to be discouraged; visitor safety, Hawaiian culture promoted. Maui News.

Rebuilding from ashes: volunteers gather to help fire cleanup. Simpli-Fresh Farm owners regroup after losing 70 percent of their farm. Maui News.

Workers at a Maui trucking company found a live skunk while unloading a container of ceramic tiles last week. Star-Advertiser.

Former Women Helping Women executive director, Stacey Moniz has been hired as the new executive director at The Maui Farm. Maui Now.

Kauai

Four months after the April flood that put the North Shore off-limits to visitors and most others, there was talk of a rejuvenation of marine life. More coral and more fish, thanks to there being almost no people in the water. Garden Island.

If you’re a user of Ke Ala Hele Makalae, and even if you’re not, Kauai Path wants you. Garden Island.

Home sales on Kauai rose by double-digits in August, and the median price of a single-family home on the Garden Isle rose by more than 15 percent, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. The median price of a single-family home on Kauai last month was $716,500, an increase of 15.18 percent from $622,063 in August 2017. Pacific Business News.

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

New jail slated for Oahu, top lawmakers buy loyalty among peers, tropical storms approach as cleanup continues, council member refuses to vote, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Razor wire at jail ©2018 All Hawaii News
Gov. David Ige accepts environmental impact statement for relocating Oahu’s overcrowded jail. However, the $525 million project to rebuild the Oahu Community Correctional Center at the state Department of Agriculture’s animal quarantine station could face challenges. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Selects Halawa Animal Quarantine Site for OCCC Replacement Facility. The state is moving ahead with its plan to replace Oahu’s aging jail for pre-trial detainees and those will less than a year sentence. Hawaii Public Radio.

The severely overcrowded Oahu Community Correctional  Center will be relocated to the Animal Quarantine Station site in Halawa. Hawaii News Now.

Larger jail planned for Oahu with Halawa chosen as new site. KHON2.

Hawaii could partner with private developer to build Honolulu jail. Pacific Business News.

=====

A Hawaii-based soldier plans to plead guilty to charges of attempting to support the Islamic State group. Sgt. 1st Class Ikaika Kang is scheduled to change his plea Wednesday. Associated Press.

Capitol Finance: How Top Lawmakers Build Their Power With Campaign Cash. Top Hawaii House and Senate leaders have given out nearly $200,000 to other candidates since 2006. Civil Beat.

There are now 2 tropical storms churning in the East Pacific. Tropical Storm Miriam is about 1,230 miles east of Hilo, moving west near 13 mph. Tropical Storm Norman was 455 miles southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico on Tuesday evening, or about 2,699 miles from Hilo. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is actively monitoring hazardous road conditions across the state in light of heavy rain and severe flooding from Tropical Storm Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Lessons Learned From The Hurricane That Just Missed Hawaii. Lane didn’t leave the devastation that many feared it would. It did leave Hawaii with a new standard for storm preparation. Civil Beat.

The state has revised its requirements for the rabies quarantine program to cut down on wait times while still preventing the virus from being introduced. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Elections Chief: No Proof Of Vote Tampering In Primary. Dozens of Kalihi residents who filed a lawsuit over the narrow victory of Rep. Romy Cachola haven’t shown any wrongdoing by the state, Scott Nago argues. Civil Beat.

Drivers beware: Issuing traffic tickets just got easier for HPD. Three nighttime Honolulu police officers, three solo bike officers and three parking enforcement officers racked up 80 traffic and parking tickets by midmorning Tuesday under a new mobile automated citation program designed to be more accurate and less time consuming. Star-Advertiser.

Rain increases Ala Wai Canal pollution, causes beach warning. The Ala Wai Canal was a chocolate brown mess Tuesday complete with floating trees, natural debris and trash. Star-Advertiser.

City hosts community meetings on Ala Wai Bridge alternatives analysis. The Department of Transportation Services Complete Streets Program has announced an alternative analysis study titled "Ala Pono: An Ala Wai Crossing," which evaluates alternatives for additional community access including a new bridge between the neighborhoods of Waikiki, Ala Moana, and McCully/ Moiliili. KHON2.

FBI conducts an island-wide drug bust Tuesday. KITV.

The owners of Wailana Coffee House plan to find a new tenant for the restaurant after it closes on Sept. 30. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

County officials were still at a stalemate Tuesday, one week after Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles shocked fellow council members by announcing she will refrain from voting or sponsoring legislation because she feared she would be violating international law and committing war crimes against the Hawaiian Kingdom. West Hawaii Today.

Council member Jen Ruggles released a letter on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, in response to Corporation Counsel Joe Kamelamela’s opinion regarding possible criminal liability for war crimes. Big Island Now.

Water Board finding puts future of wind farm in question. A decision by the Hawaii County Water Board at its monthly meeting Tuesday may signal the end of an award-winning renewable energy project and prove the impetus for a legal battle with implications amounting to tens of millions of dollars. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii Business owners, residents continue cleanup as county tabulates damage done by Hurricane Lane. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Resident's Book and Music Store Destroyed by Lane. Hawaii Public Radio.

Health officials warn that going into a building that has been flooded, even after the water is gone, can present a wide variety of hazards. Big Island Video News.

Sgt. 1st Class Reymund Rarogal Transfiguracion, a highly decorated special operations soldier who gave his life for his country, has returned home. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has given 46 people citations since May. KITV.

Recently released into the wild, 11 endangered Hawaiian crows survived recent severe weather brought on by Tropical Storm Lane. Hawaii News Now.

‘These Little Buggers’ Are Taking A Big Bite Out Of Hawaii’s Macadamia Crop. Hawaii is considering introducing a newly discovered wasp to prey on the invasive pest. Civil Beat.

Maui

Former Maui officer sentenced for theft and bribing motorist. Former Maui police officer Anthony Maldonado stole $1,800 from a motorist because he thought the motorist was a drug dealer, had stolen drugs and money from drug dealers before, gave some of the drugs to his mistress and sold steroids to at least one other officer, a federal prosecutor said Tuesday at Maldonado’s sentencing. Star-Advertiser.

Community members are invited to a meeting Wednesday night to discuss the impacts of Lane and a recent string of brush fires over the weekend. KHON2.

Investigation: So far, 'No criminal intent' found in Maui wildfires. Hawaii News Now.

‘The pride runs deep’. First responders rally to save historic Lahainaluna campus. Maui News.

Support in aftermath of fire pours in as Native Hawaiian families on kuleana lands vow to rebuild. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Rains pound Kauai; bridge, schools, parks closed. Garden Island.

Deluge swamps North Shore. Garden Island.

Lane Resoaks Areas That Were Deluged In April Storm. The Kuhio Highway is closed near Hanalei, where business activity has come to a standstill. Civil Beat.

Michael Bukoski had just moved back into his house on Wailaau Road in Koloa when the notice for voluntary evacuations came across Tuesday morning. Garden Island.

Monday, September 26, 2016

Self-governance advanced for Native Hawaiians, road-use charge may replace gas tax, Maui battles coqui frog, crime drops at UH Manoa, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Department of the Interior hearings, file photo © 2016 All Hawaii News
In what’s being described by some as a historic step toward Native Hawaiian self-governance, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced Friday that it has finalized “a pathway” that would formally recognize such an entity. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of the Interior announced Friday that it finalized a rule for creating a government-to-government relationship with Native Hawaiians — if they choose to form their own government and if they want such ties. Associated Press.

State’s child abuse letters may violate law. Star-Advertiser.

The state may do away with gas taxes and replace them with a road use charge, depending on the results of a proposed statewide trial program. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s longline fishermen are back at sea in search of more ahi after extending their quota limit through an agreement with the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Ron Taketa’s term on the Honolulu Police Commission expired nine months ago, yet Mayor Kirk Caldwell has yet to reappoint or replace him. Civil Beat.

The number of reported sex offenses, motor vehicle thefts and liquor law violations at the University of Hawaii at Manoa declined in 2015 from the previous year while the number of drug-related violations on campus significantly increased. Star-Advertiser.

The number of homeless military veterans on Oahu fell 44 percent between January and August, while the number of veterans becoming homeless each month also shows an encouraging decline. Star-Advertiser.

All areas on Oahu are being considered for a new facility that would replace the aging and overcrowding current Oahu Community Correctional Center in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kalihi, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

A class-action lawsuit filed in federal court last month alleges that 72 Oahu homeowner associations and two law firms acting as their agents unlawfully foreclosed on 160 homes beginning in September 2010. Star-Advertiser.

The city is rethinking its policy on Kalakaua Avenue street closures in Waikiki in response to complaints that some past events haven’t merited disruptions to the nation’s fifth-most lucrative retail street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Profanity-Laced Video Shows Mayor Partying Hard At Conference Party. The mayor of Hawaii County, who is accused of buying booze and other items with taxpayer money, appears to be heavily intoxicated.  Civil Beat.

Guests in a hospitality room at the Hawaii Congress of Planning Officials Conference on Kauai got an impromptu earful they hadn’t planned on — courtesy of Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi. Tribune-Herald.

Several dozen people packed into a room at the Hawaii Community College Palamanui Campus Saturday to discuss new proposals aimed at reducing crowds at popular manta ray viewing sites in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Invasive Species Committee is tripling to quadrupling resources and working crews devoted to eradicating coqui frogs from the heavily infested Maliko Gulch area over the next five years, officials said. Maui News.

Two weeks after a powerful rainstorm forced the Wailuku River to jump its banks and fill up his home with mud and debris, Wayne Wong remains on edge, his ravaged dwelling now sitting dangerously close to a newly widened riverbed.  Star-Advertiser.

More than 500 people participated in the 12th Annual Town Clean Up in Lahaina over the weekend, according to event organizers. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has begun the third year of testing an experimental laser system to prevent endangered seabirds from colliding with power lines. Garden Island.

The trial for a man accused of beating a monk seal has been continued. Garden Island.

The private access road to Mahaulepu Beach will be closed to the public starting Monday at the recommendation of the state Department of Health, and some locals are questioning the motives. Garden Island.