Showing posts with label Josh Green. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Josh Green. Show all posts

Monday, December 5, 2022

Hawaii gas price tops in the nation, Green, Luke to be inaugurated today, unexploded ordnance temporarily closes lava viewing area, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Why Is Hawaii Still Suffering From High Oil Prices When The Mainland Has Dropped? Hawaii was the only state in the U.S. last week where electric rates continue to cause consumer shock and average gasoline prices topped $5 per gallon. As crude oil and gasoline prices drop on the mainland, bringing relief to consumers after a long period of high prices, Hawaii residents and businesses face a grim alternate reality: gasoline prices haven’t dropped much, and neither has the price of electricity. Civil Beat.

Is Hawaiʻi nearing a recession? Analysts say not quite. Paul Brewbaker, economist and principal of TZ Economics, said that inflation in Hawaiʻi is running at 6.6% now — of which 4.1% is core inflation. That, combined with rising interest rates, is changing the dynamics between lenders and consumers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Inauguration of Green and Luke set for today.  Gov.-elect Josh Green and Lt. Gov.-elect Sylvia Luke are scheduled to be sworn in to Hawaii’s highest offices today in an inauguration ceremony at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center Arena to include the Royal Hawaiian Band, the Roosevelt High School String Quartet and the Hawaii National Guard Joint Color Guard &Royal Guard. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii Tourism Authority calls for special meeting on U.S. tourism contract.  The Hawaii Tourism Authority has called a special board meeting for Wednesday to discuss extending the U.S. tourism contract while it sorts out a procurement protest and other irregularities a week after a secret meeting with the outgoing governor and the director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Tourism Authority emails show contract process concerns
. Hawaii Tourism Authority staff may have violated state procurement law during solicitation for the U.S. tourism contract, typically worth more than $100 million over a five-year period, according to information found in approximately 2,700 pages of public records. Star-Advertiser.

Former sports anchor, union official sentenced to probation for his role in corruption scandal. Former KHNL sports anchor and union official Russell Yamanoha has been sentenced to two years of probation and was fined $5,000 for his role in a union corruption scandal. Yamanoha, the former assistant business manager for the IBEW Local 1260, was convicted in 2019 for helping rig union votes. Hawaii News Now.

Federal Rental Subsidies Could Help Thousands Of Kupuna On DHHL Waitlist. A new program overseen by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement follows more than $12 million of rent relief the department has disbursed. Civil Beat.

Army moving equipment across Pacific for training. The Army is moving equipment across the Pacific in support of its Operation Pathways exercise to be held in Australia in 2023 as it continues to define its changing role in the region. Star-Advertiser.

Fishing council questions monument’s spillover benefits. The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council is again challenging the reported benefits of the Papaha­naumokuakea Marine National Monument — this time by directly questioning the legitimacy of a recent study on the spillover effects the monument’s expansion area has on marine life. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

DOT announces locations for new red light cameras
. The Department of Transportation's red light safety camera pilot will install 10 cameras throughout intersections in Honolulu with a history of red light violations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Navy hikes toxic leak estimate: ‘They’re on thin ice’.  Officials said on Saturday, Dec. 3 that the amount that was actually released could be almost 20 percent higher than originally reported. KHON2.

‘Last straw’: BWS chief engineer Ernie Lau joins water advocates in Red Hill protest. For the first time, Board of Water Supply Chief Engineer Ernie Lau joined dozens of water advocates at a Red Hill protest Friday outside the State Health Department. Hawaii News Now.

Construction to resume on Mandarin Oriental Honolulu luxury tower.  A developer plans to start building a $650 million luxury hotel and condominium tower across from the Hawai‘i Convention Center next year following a three-year delay influenced by the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Makua Beach Standoff: Residents Say They Are Being Run Off By A Man Camping Out. People who regularly use the beach say Samson Souza has been blocking access for months. He says he’s trying to protect endangered spinner dolphins. Civil Beat.

Waianae Coast pig farmer fights for livelihood against landlord. A 55-year-old Waianae Coast pig farmer who filed a petition to the state’s highest court for help to save his livestock and his livelihood said he’s not giving up the fight despite being rejected by the Hawaii Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

More progressive County Council to be sworn in Monday. There’s a new day coming for the Hawaii County Council, with a freshly minted chairwoman, three freshman members, newly named committees and a more progressive agenda. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now.

Explosive device closes Mauna Loa viewing area. The Hawaii County Police Department reopened the parking area on old Saddle Road on Sunday afternoon following the conclusion of a police investigation that closed the Mauna Loa eruption viewing area for nearly five hours. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Civil Beat.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Volcanic risk: 2020 report could be key in avoiding disaster.  After the lava flows from the 2018 Kilauea eruption took out more than 700 homes and cost tens of millions of dollars in road reconstruction and land buyouts, the county spent more than $2 million on a consultant to conduct an islandwide volcanic risk assessment as well as a Kilauea recovery plan. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island still draws home buyers despite eruption risks.  Despite the threats of hurricanes, tsunamis, vog, earthquakes — and now another eruption from Mauna Loa — people continue to move to the more affordable areas of Hawaii Island, including the Leilani Estates subdivision that was overrun by Kilauea lava in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

A legacy of lava: Kim, Trusdell reflect on 1984 Mauna Loa eruption that threatened Hilo.  Former Mayor Harry Kim was county Civil Defense administrator in 1984, a position he held for 24 years before becoming Hawaii County’s chief executive in 2000. In his role at Civil Defense, as well as in his dozen years as mayor, Kim has dealt with volcanoes more on a day-to-day basis than any other county official. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County council voices support for restoration of Kawela Stream flow. Resolution urges water commission to deny contested case hearing for landowner. Maui News.

Work to start on new hale at Kepaniwai. A project to build a replacement Hawaiian Hale at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens in Iao Valley will begin Dec. 12. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Coco Palms development faces new legal challenge. Kaua‘i community group I Ola Wailuanui filed a lawsuit last month against the state Board of Land and Natural Resources and the developers behind the project, arguing recently renewed BLNR permits granted to a defunct LLC without the typically required environmental impact statements.  Garden Island.

Millions released for Kaua‘i projects.  Waimea High School will get a new gym, as $27 million of the funds released between Nov. 1, 2022, and Dec. 2, 2022, are for construction of a new gym and related facilities.  Garden Island.

Friday, December 2, 2022

Green names Cabinet appointees, Hawaii only state with $5 gas, blue-ribbon panel has 31 anti-corruption proposals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov.-Elect Josh Green’s Cabinet Will Have Many Familiar Faces. Gov.-elect Josh Green on Thursday announced the names of 20 Cabinet-level appointees, including many who led state agencies during Gov. David Ige’s tenure. Green, who has been lieutenant governor for four years, is to be sworn in as governor at noon Monday at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center Arena. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

These are Josh Green’s 5 big priorities for his first 100 days in office. Green discussed what changes he plans to make in his first 100 days in office. The first is to take immediate action on Hawaii’s housing crisis. Green says if necessary he’ll use emergency powers to adjust some of the processes that are obstructing the ability to build housing. Hawaii News Now.

‘A Deep Moral Crisis’: Commission Proposes ‘Bold’ Reforms In Government. Commission members urged the public to pay close attention to what the Hawaii Legislature does with the 31 proposals intended to combat corruption, ethical issues and more. A blue-ribbon panel tasked with identifying ways to better Hawaii government is calling for sweeping reforms to restore public trust in government. The suggested reforms include enhancing investigation and prosecution of fraud, providing more openness and transparency, curbing the influence of money to lawmakers and limiting their time in office. Civil Beat.

Expectations for Hawaii’s economy stay level. The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released a new quarterly forecast for the local economy earlier this week, and anticipates no change from its previous projection for 2023 and 2024 made in August. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Garden Island.

AAA: Hawaiʻi only state with gas price averaging more than $5 a gallon. Hawaiʻi gas prices remained in a holding pattern even while all other Western states experienced weekly price dips of 20 cents or more, according to the AAA Hawaiʻi Weekend Gas Watch. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s State Board Of Education Draft Plan Includes Higher Reading and Math Goals. BOE board members highlighted a need for higher basic academic achievement for all students, and more support for minorities and English learners. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Navy plan approved by health department following foam leak at Red Hill. The state Department of Health has approved a Navy Sampling and Analysis Plan following the leak of 1,100 gallons of concentrated fire suppressant into the ground at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. Star-Advertiser.

Red Hill defueling on pause while Navy cleans up toxic fire suppressant spill. Defueling of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility remains on pause as the Navy cleans up a separate toxic spill from earlier this week. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Red light camera initiative moves forward despite backlash. There will be 10 red light cameras installed at various Honolulu intersections by March as a part of the state Department of Transportation's red light safety program. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

County creates ‘Traffic Hazard Mitigation Route’ for lava viewing. Via the route, which was unveiled today, drivers can enter the Old Saddle Road directly across from the Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area. From there, drivers can travel the 4.5-mile stretch of road until it rejoins with the Daniel K. Inouye Highway just before Puʻuhuluhulu near the Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hāmākua Bridge Reopens Closed Lane In Case Lava Cuts Saddle. The second lane over Nanue Bridge at mile marker 18.5 on Hawaii Belt Road has been reopened, after a closure due to emergency repairs. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Climate scientists at Maunaloa Observatory are 'pursuing all options' to get back on site. The eight scientists and technicians who work at the Maunaloa Observatory collecting climate data are grateful to be out of harm’s way of the lava flow. They say they are anxious to return to the facility though no one knows when it will be safe to do so.  Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Video News.

For many Hawaiians, lava flows are a time to honor, reflect
. Glowing lava from the world’s largest volcano is a sight to behold, but for many Native Hawaiians, Mauna Loa’s eruption is a time to pray, make offerings and honor both the natural and spiritual worlds. Associated Press.

Maui

Another Former Maui County Official Has Been Charged With Accepting Bribes. Federal authorities announced Thursday that another former Maui County environmental management official has been charged with accepting bribes as part of a long-running corruption scheme involving Honolulu businessman Milton Choy. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Citing Water Crisis, Maui Makes Fodor’s List Of Places To Not Visit Next Year. The travel publication listed the island among regions “suffering from water crises.” Civil Beat.

Lanai Runway Expansion Hits A Nerve Over ‘Two-Tiered’ Travel. The upgrade would allow bigger private jets to fly to Lanai nonstop from the mainland. Lanai Airport’s existing 5,000-foot runway isn’t long enough for some heavier jets to land. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Mayor Kawakami lays out priorities for next term at his inauguration. Kawakami, entering his second term as mayor, laid out the goals for the next four years of his administration: “Infrastructure, infrastructure and infrastructure.” Garden Island.

Mayor Kawakami, Kauaʻi County Council sworn into office at inauguration ceremony. The 2022-2024 Kaua‘i County Council members include Council Chair Mel Rapozo, Council Vice Chair KipuKai Kuali‘i, Addison Bulosan, Bernard P. Carvalho Jr., Felicia Cowden, Bill DeCosta and Luke A. Evslin. Kauai Now. KHON2.

Monday, November 28, 2022

Mauna Loa volcano erupts, Honolulu landfill plans rejected, Maui voters sue, seek to overturn election, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Mauna Loa begins to erupt: Ashfall advisory posted, shelters open in Ka‘u, Kona; no immediate threat to nearby communities. Mauna Loa volcano on the Big Island is erupting with lava flows at the summit region visible from Kona, the U.S. Geological Survey reported Sunday night. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Official Mauna Loa Eruption Webpage. USGS.

Hawaiian Independence Day celebrated Monday. Lā Kūʻokoʻa is observed annually on Nov. 28. It was on that day in 1843 that Hawaiʻi was formally recognized as an independent nation by other world powers, including England, France and the United States of America. Hawaii Public Radio. Garden Island.

‘I Worked Very Hard’: Hawaii Gov. David Ige Looks Back At 8 Years Leading The State. The Hawaii governor gets mixed reviews from other top state officials on how well he governed. Ige thinks he did just fine. Civil Beat.

First lady Dawn Amano-Ige’s work is not done. Even though Dawn Amano-Ige, the first lady to Hawaii’s outgoing governor, insists that she doesn’t know yet whether she really will seek an elected office herself someday, she already possesses that statesman’s ability to delicately deflect a news reporter’s questions with aplomb. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Rep. Ed Case Looks Ahead To A Divided Congress In 2023. Case says he’s hopeful he’ll be able to navigate the political split even in the minority, but he’s concerned about the anti-democratic leanings of some of his GOP colleagues. Civil Beat. Maui News.

Gov.-elect Josh Green’s staff has diverse skill sets. Gov.-elect Josh Green has staffed his office with a diverse group of women with backgrounds in government and the private sector, including a new Cabinet-­level position focused on workforce and affordable housing, homelessness and social service policies. Star-Advertiser.

Optimism high for progress with Hawaii affordable housing. The political will and millions of dollars of funding are in place, leading to high hopes for the upcoming legislative session that Hawaii will see real progress in developing badly needed affordable housing for kupuna, working families, Native Hawaiians and young people — all who could use encouragement to stay home. Star-Advertiser.

GET Petition effort finds support.
A petition urging the state Legislature to exempt medical services from the state’s general excise tax, or GET, has collected more than 1,100 signatures, according to Joe Kent, vice president of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Farmers Struggle As Worldwide Macadamia Market Goes Nuts. Ad campaigns and DNA testing seek to drive buyers toward real Hawaiian macadamias. Hawaii’s most iconic macadamia nut brands are significantly scaling back their purchases of Hawaii-grown nuts. Instead, shipping records indicate, South Africa and Kenya have become big suppliers. Civil Beat.

South Korean navy training group arrives in Hawaii. The Republic of Korea navy’s cruise training task group arrived Friday at Pearl Harbor for five days of classes and cultural events for sailors and the South Korean navy’s future leaders. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

BWS chief blocks mayor’s landfill request over aquifer concerns. Honolulu Board of Water Supply Manager and Chief Engineer Ernie Lau has rejected Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s request to locate the city’s next solid-­waste landfill in an area where a chemical leak might foul the island’s water resources. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii gun permit ruling sides with ‘homesick’ Navy officer. A U.S. Navy officer stationed in Hawaii cannot be denied a firearms permit solely because he sought counseling for feeling depressed and homesick, a federal judge ruled. Associated Press.

Mayor Blangiardi to move forward with historic preservation panel. Mayor Rick Blangiardi announced his intent to staff the Oahu Historic Preservation Commission on Wednesday, three decades after the City Council created it without filling its ranks. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hitachi: Two Trains Hit Each Other At Low Speed During Rail Yard Exercise. Two of Honolulu’s driverless trains knocked together in what’s known as a “hard coupling” during what rail officials said was a routine maintenance exercise Monday at the Pearl City rail yard. Civil Beat.

Oneula irrigation project prompts criticism. The city plans to reconstruct the irrigation system at Oneula Beach Park in Ewa Beach, but community members say funds should instead go toward a new comfort station. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutors Roll The Dice On New Enforcement Measures Targeting Illegal Gambling Rooms. Increased criminal penalties are intended to give investigators an ace up their sleeve in their efforts to stifle the operations and the anti-social activity that can accompany them. Civil Beat.

2 Oahu schools fight for survival as enrollment shrinks
. Waiahole and Ka‘a‘awa each are just over one-fifth the size of the average Hawaii elementary school of about 485 students, according the National Center for Education Statistics in the U.S. Department of Education. Star-Advertiser.

Homeward Bound: Hawaii Program Flies Homeless People To The Mainland.
The Institute for Human Services’ relocation program has served nearly 600 people experiencing homelessness on Oahu since 2015. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Rental regulations: New rules — and fees — proposed for hosted and non-hosted transient rentals. A proposed revamp of the county’s vacation rental law includes registration — for the first time — of hosted accommodations and new regulations and fees for both hosted and non-hosted rentals. It also paves the way for the creation of vacation nodes, where new short-term rentals could crop up in areas they’re currently banned. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Defrauding Covid-19 Relief Programs. Carey Mills is the first person sentenced for Covid-19 fraud in Hawaii and must pay $957,575 in restitution to the Small Business Administration. Civil Beat.

Waipiʻo Valley Road Closure Advisory Committee Being Formed.
Mayor Mitch Roth has announced that he will stand up a Mayor's Advisory Committee for Waipiʻo Valley's Emergency Road Closure, with diverse public representation. Big Island Video News.

Native Hawaiians are still waiting for the military to remove unexploded bombs.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which is leading the remediation effort, has been plagued by shoddy work and multiple regulatory disputes. Star-Advertiser.

$14.4M bond funding approved for Kaloko Heights affordable housing.
The county could be posting the paperwork as early as this week to sell $14.4 million in bonds to provide sewer service to a 100-unit affordable housing project at Kaloko Heights. West Hawaii Today.

No easy fix for complaints about homeless. Hawaii County agencies, the police department and business associations all seem to be waiting for one another to propose solutions to alleviate complaints about the homeless on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

From homeless to a Big Island police officer; Hope Services provided ‘break’ his family needed. In 2016, Damien Grace was working two jobs, at Safelite Auto Glass and at Foodland in Hilo doing security, desperately trying to support his wife and five young children, including an 8-month-old. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Lawsuit Seeks New County Council Election For Wailuku. The lawsuit alleges that hundreds of uncounted ballots could have swayed the outcome of a race decided by 513 votes. A lawsuit filed Friday with the Hawaii Supreme Court by more than 30 Maui County voters, including a candidate for office, is asking for a new election for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu seat on the County Council, alleging that “irregularities and mistakes” meant that more than 800 voters weren’t given proper notice that their ballots weren’t being counted. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Maui has the largest vacation rental supply in Hawaiʻi with 211,900 available unit nights.
Vacation rentals across Hawaiʻi reported increases in supply, demand, and average daily rate, with lower occupancy in October 2022 compared to October 2021. Maui Now. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i county council votes in new leadership. In a Wednesday meeting, the new Kaua‘i County Council tapped member-elect Mel Rapozo to serve as chair for the next two years. Garden Island.

Public invited to attend inauguration of Kaua’i Mayor and County Council on Dec. 1. The public is invited to attend the inauguration of Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami and the Kaua‘i County Council at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall at 1 p.m. on Dec. 1. Kauai Now.

October: Strong hotel revenue, occupancy. A banner month for passenger counts at Lihu‘e Airport proved fruitful for the local hotel industry, which put up strong revenue and occupancy numbers in October. Garden Island.

Wednesday, November 23, 2022

Green appoints first staffers, Bezos donates $7.5M to Oahu and Maui homeless efforts, new women's dorm coming to Maui jail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor-elect Green appoints 8 women to key positions in his administration. Hawaiʻi Governor-elect Josh Green announced Tuesday evening the appointments of eight “strong women” to his administration. They include chief of staff, Brooke Wilson, who had served in the same position when he was Hawaiʻi’s lieutenant governor. Big Island Now. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.


Josh Green Names Longtime Advocate To Be New Hawaii Housing Chief.
Some two weeks before he is due to be sworn in, Gov.-elect Josh Green said Tuesday that longtime advocate Nani Medeiros will be the state’s new housing chief as his new Cabinet starts to take shape. Civil Beat.

Jeff Bezos donates $7.5M to fight homelessness in Hawaii. Two Hawaii nonprofits have received a total of $7.5 million in grants from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’s Day 1 Families Fund. On Oahu, Family Promise of Hawaii received $2.5 million — the largest private grant the organization has ever received. Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Centers, Maui’s largest homeless shelter provider, received a $5 million grant. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Space Force establishes its first regional command in Hawaii. The newest branch of the U.S. military opened its first regional command Tuesday in Hawaii: U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Thanksgiving travel bustling, but Hawaii eyeing weak festive season. The holiday rush is back this year with travelers nationwide expected to catch planes for Thanksgiving and the festive season in numbers not seen in years — although Hawaii’s visitor industry reports that fewer visitors are headed here for vacations. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Discussion progresses on UH tuition increase. The University of Hawaiʻi will hold two more meetings to discuss raising tuition for both residents and non residents at three of its campuses. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Gov.-elect Green, Mayor Blangiardi team up on housing push. Gov.-elect Josh Green and Mayor Rick Blangiardi on Tuesday asked the owners of thousands of illegal Oahu rental units to help ease the island’s affordable housing and homeless crises by renting to local families instead of tourists as both named new housing directors to lead state and city housing efforts. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu to get new affordable housing chief. State Finance Director Craig Hirai will be joining the city of Honolulu in a new position known as chief of affordable housing policy and strategy, it was announced today. Star-Advertiser.

With a long local waitlist, ‘portability’ of Section 8 vouchers from other states draws concern. Anton Krucky, director of Community Services for the city, said there are currently 532 people on Oahu that are waiting for a Section 8 voucher. Hawaii News Now.

Rules for concealed-carry weapon license are finalized. Honolulu police will process applications and likely issue a first batch of concealed-carry weapon licenses before the City Council votes on legislation that outlines where guns can and cannot be carried on Oahu, police Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan confirmed Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Hundreds Of Honolulu Residential High Rises Fail To Meet ‘Acceptable’ Fire Safety Standards. A new report on the results of comprehensive safety evaluations was recently shared with the Honolulu City Council. Very few high rises have fire sprinkler systems. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Top cop search down to 5. The number of candidates in the running to become Hawaii County’s top cop is down to five. Charisse Correa, secretary for the Hawaii County Police Commission,  said Tuesday the commission is “seeking permission right now to unmask their names.” Tribune-Herald.

Solar projects to benefit low- and moderate-income electric customers. A trio of solar projects slated for West Hawaii will be the first on Hawaii Island to offer Hawaiian Electric’s shared solar program. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will host two meetings next week on the Big Island. Through a pair of public meetings, HTA will present the agency’s progress in fulfilling the goals of its Destination Management Action Plan for the Big Island, which it released in early 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor Renovations Begin Next Week. The boat ramp will remain open during the work, which includes new asphalt pavement, drainage improvements, and new, solar powered streetlights. Big Island Video News.

Maui

New women’s dorm at MCCC is expected to help alleviate overcrowding at the Maui jail. The state Department of Public Safety held a ceremonial groundbreaking today to mark the start of construction of a new medium security housing structure for female inmates at the Maui Community Correctional Center. Maui Now.

DOH approves third medical cannabis retail dispensary for Pono Life Sciences on Maui. The Hawai‘i State Department of Health has issued a formal notice to proceed to retail to Pono Life Sciences Maui, LLC (PONO LIFE MAUI) after it passed a final on-site inspection for its third retail facility on the Valley Isle. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Electric selects 3 solar projects on Maui to benefit low/moderate income customers. The program, which also is known as community-based renewable energy or CBRE, also is for customers who are unable to install privately-owned rooftop solar. Maui Now.

Kauai

Millions released for Kaua‘i improvement projects. Outgoing Gov. David Ige announced on Monday the release of $392 million in funds for capital improvement projects, including millions for a range of projects on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

DMV customers encouraged to make appointments. In a move aimed at providing more efficient service through the holiday season, the county Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging customers to make an appointment. Garden Island.

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Many new faces in Hawaii Legislature, Gov.-elect Green seeks staff, Cabinet, inaugural Hawaii Honor Flight lands in D.C., more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2022 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii Capitol balconies ©2022 All Hawaii News
Low voter turnout on Election Day translates into big turnover at state Legislature. The biggest change is in the state House, which will have 16 new faces out of its 51 seats ― the highest number of newcomers in two decades. The 25-member state Senate could see up to five new faces. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Gains in Hawaii Legislature small, but encouraging for Republican Party. As far as waves being sized up in Hawaii, a “red wave” of winning Republican candidates joining the state Legislature later this year is closer to knee-high than head-high or overhead. Star-Advertiser.

Gov.-elect Josh Green considering new ways to address old problems in Hawaii. Gov.-elect Josh Green won office on Tuesday by the largest vote percentage in state history and with the greatest margin of victory, according to his office, and plans to translate that momentum and support into an early and big vision for the state and its residents even before he’s inaugurated Dec. 5. Star-Advertiser.

Green, Luke say they’re ready to ‘hit the ground running’ to tackle top issues. Following a big win on election night, Gov.-Elect Josh Green and Lt. Gov.-Elect Sylvia Luke told HNN they’re already working hard to prepare for their new positions ― and priorities. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Governor-Elect Josh Green Is Hiring For New Administration. Governor-elect Josh Green launched his transition website Wednesday morning announcing more than 100 position openings for the new administration that’s set to be sworn in Dec. 5. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now. Maui Now.

Ballot trends push back on early voting. Voter turnout patterns showed a bit of pushback against early voting, with more than 10,000 people casting their ballots in person on Election Day. KHON2.

Worker shortage, costs among barriers to adding more Election Day polling places. Hawaii implemented an all mail-in ballot system three years ago, but thousands of people still chose to vote in person on Election Day. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii May Soon Have More Tools To Prosecute Public Corruption. A statewide standards commission recommended new felonies dealing with fraud, false claims and statements that may allow state and county prosecutors to bring charges against public officials similar to those brought by federal prosecutors in a string of public corruption cases this year. Civil Beat.

Inaugural Hawaii Honor Flight lands in D.C.. The first ever Hawaii Honor Flight landed on the National Mall Wednesday where a group of veterans from Hawaii visited the memorials built in their honor. Hawaii News Now.

Omicron subvariants BQ.1, BQ.1.1 gain ground in Hawaii. The evolution of the virus driving the COVID-19 pandemic continues, with the latest chapter being the rise of omicron subvariants BQ.1 and BQ.1.1. The two, described as among the most immune-evasive variants yet, are gaining ground in Hawaii as well as nationwide. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii records 1,288 new COVID-19 cases, 5 more deaths. The state’s average positivity rate also declined to 5.3% compared with 5.5% the previous week. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu

Mother-son political duo prepares to make Hawaii history. Donna Mercado Kim and Micah Po'okela Kim Aiu will become the first mother-son duo to serve in the Hawaii Legislature at the same time. KITV4.

HPD stands by its scanner access ban, but launches new online system with dispatch details.
City declines to restore public access to the radio traffic of first responders. Public access to non-tactical radio traffic of Honolulu police, firefighters, emergency medical services workers and ocean safety personnel will remain restricted for at least the next 90 days as Honolulu Hale has opted not to enter into an agreement with Hawaii media to restore access. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Gov-elect Green asks Ige to pause Aloha Stadium redirection.
The future of the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District is still uncertain as many await details from Governor David Ige, but his successor said he’s going to push fast ahead to get it done. KHON2.

Revival of Red Hill fueling operations feared.
The Honolulu Board of Water Supply’s top official expressed concern Wednesday that the Navy might try to revive its underground Red Hill storage tanks at some point in the future for fuel use, despite the Department of Defense’s assurances to the contrary. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds Of Red Hill Families Still Sick A Year Later, Survey Finds. Impacted families are asking the Navy for help with their medical care. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island Is Getting New Federal Funds To Tackle Health Care Shortages. Is It Enough?. Gov.-elect Josh Green also has pledged to address problems with accessing care, especially in rural areas. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian clinic plans relocation, expansion. A Native Hawaiian health clinic in Waimea has plans to move out of the rented commercial space it currently occupies and build a new facility on two acres of homestead land. Tribune-Herald.

Puna park renamed in former Mayor Billy Kenoi’s memory. Family, friends and county and state officials gathered to rename Pahoa District Park after the former Hawaii County mayor, who served from 2008 to 2016. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Bissen thanks community, talks about the road ahead & visions of Kamaʻāina Prosperity. Before going to sleep last night, the retired judge had garnered nearly 58% of the vote and was leading incumbent Michael Victorino by nearly 6,500 votes.  This morning, his mission was to thank the public with plans to establish a team to help with his administration. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

West Maui Fire Day 2: “Fire on the move” in mountain ridges above Launiupoko. Evacuation is possible for residents in the upper portion of the Launiupoko subdivision, according to a County of Maui update issued on Wednesday afternoon. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Kauai

Kaua‘i election: Final results still not out. Election Administrator Lyndon Yoshioka reported his team had been working through Tuesday night handling 6,000 drop box ballots that arrived on Election Day. In addition, Yoshioka said there were 800 in-person voters, as lines stretched to the steps of the historic county building on Tuesday night. Garden Island.

Farming company to conduct controlled agriculture burn Nov. 10 on Kauaʻi. A controlled agriculture burn will be conducted by a local farming company near the Kaumakani makai area on Nov. 10, from 7 a.m. to noon, weather permitting, according to the Kaua‘i Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

It's Gov. Green, Hawaii favors Democrats in state and congressional races, Maui ousts its mayor, more top midterm election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii voters pick Democrat Josh Green to be next governor. A new era in Hawaii politics and leadership begins in December when Josh Green is sworn in as the state’s ninth governor following his sweeping win Tuesday night over three-time Republican candidate James “Duke” Aiona. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Newcomer Tokuda joins Hawaii’s congressional team. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and U.S. Rep. Ed Case kept their seats Tuesday and will be joined by newcomer Jill Tokuda, who prevailed in the race for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.

Galuteria returns to politics with at-large OHA seat. A former state senator and onetime chair of the Democratic Party of Hawaii completed his return to politics Tuesday by finishing first among six candidates vying for three at-large seats on the Board of Trustees at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Voter Turnout Plunged In 2022 Election. Many voters waited in long lines to vote in person on Election Day but turnout still only reached 41%, according to results as of late Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii voters turn out last-minute to cast ballots. Voters turned up in force at major voter service centers in Hawaii on Election Day, either to drop off ballots or vote in person. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Election night keeps staff, volunteers busy at the state's counting center. The State Capitol served as the counting center for Tuesday night's elections. This is the final stop for the ballots. Here, the ballots are counted and then locked up again for safety. KITV4.

Oahu

Incumbents Har, Eli trailing in close races. Three incumbent state lawmakers are on a path to being knocked out of Hawaii’s Legislature by voters, based on largely complete general election results. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Council chair keeps post; 3 new members elected. Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters has kept his seat, but the Council will see three new faces following Tuesday’s general election. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Oahu voters pass 3 charter amendments; 4th likely to fail. Oahu voters in Tuesday’s general election approved three amendments to Honolulu’s City Charter — changing the future makeup of the Planning Commission, bolstering the Clean Water and Natural Lands Fund, and incorporating the Office of Council Services. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Voters Lined Up In A Last-Minute Crush At City Hall. Old-school voters gnashed their teeth at election changes and wondered why there are only two in-person polling places on the island. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Richards becomes senator for North Hawaii: Democrats sweep Big Island seats. Democrat Tim Richards easily skated past Republican Nicholas M. Tancheff for the open District 4 seat in the state Senate, leading Tancheff by 6,363 votes with all mailed ballots — 41.3% of registered voters — counted Tuesday night. West Hawaii Today. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Kahaloa wins new House district. Hawaii Island earned an eighth seat in the state House of Representatives this election year, and the first candidate to fill it is Democrat Kirstin A.K. Kahaloa, who vanquished her Republican opponent, Jonathan P. Kennealy, with 66.6% of the votes, based on mail ballots representing 41.3% of registered voters. West Hawaii Today. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Voters Elect New Council Member, Adopt 3 Charter Amendments. Voters overwhelmingly passed charter amendments to expand the ethics board, strengthen the auditor’s office and create a youth commission. Civil Beat. Big Island Now.

Kagiwada squeaks by Kusch for Hilo council seat.
Jenn Kagiwada edged Matthias Kusch by 276 votes in a hotly contested District 2 County Council race between two political first-timers in Tuesday night’s general election. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Incumbent Maui Mayor Victorino is defeated. Challenger Richard Bissen convincingly beat incumbent Michael Victorino in the hotly contested race for Maui County mayor. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Bissen takes early lead in mayor’s race; Hokama and Johnson locked in tight Lanai race. The first round of results also showed a tight race for the Lanai residency seat on the Maui County Council, with former Council Member Riki Hokama leading incumbent Council Member Gabe Johnson with 13,428 votes to 12,933 votes.  Maui News.

Kauai

Derek Kawakami Cruises To Another Term As Mayor. Voters overwhelmingly reelected Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami to a second four-year term in the county’s top executive seat in the general election on Tuesday, according to preliminary results. Civil Beat. Garden Island. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kaua‘i council race preliminary results: Bulosan in. In the county council race, voters mainly favored the status quo. Of the seven candidates leading in the first printout of results, six are either incumbents or former county council members. Garden Island.

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

Hawaii voters choosing governor, other officials today, military wrapping up big training exercise, food stamp officer overwhelmed, Willie Nelson coming to Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Over 400 volunteers across Hawaiʻi continue processing ballots into Election Day. The state has received more than 285,000 ballots as of Monday morning. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voting on Election Day: Where to go and what to expect. The vast majority of Hawaii voters chose to cast their ballots by mail during the 2022 primary election in August. The latest numbers from the state show that trend continuing in Tuesday’s general election. Hawaii News Now.

Top seats up for grabs in Hawaii general election as vote ends. Hawaii voters will have their last chance today to decide who they want to represent them in Congress along with offices including the next governor, legislative and council seats, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and mayors of Maui and Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Despite ease of mail-in voting and several hot races, Hawaii sees sluggish turnout for general election. Despite a governor’s race and a contentious mayoral contest on Maui, voter turnout in Hawaii’s general election appears to be sluggish ― and could be at or below 2018 levels. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is one of the top states people are leaving. The number one state people are leaving is California according to the study. Following California is New York, Illinois, Massachusetts and coming in eighth is Hawaii. KHON2.

With low voter turnout, Hawaii gubernatorial candidates fight to get more votes. It's the day before the general election and so far there's been low voter turnout. But both candidates for governor -- Josh Green and Duke Aiona -- believe that'll work in their favor. KITV4.

Hawaii unemployment fund on pace to more than double this year. The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said on Monday that the fund for paying unemployment benefits grew to $232 million as of Friday, up from about $119 million at the end of last year. Star-Advertiser.

Overwhelmed human service workers fall behind in processing food stamp benefits. Department of Human Services spokesman Amanda Stevens cited inflated caseloads and new requirements as increasing the department workload. Hawaii News Now.

Army sees its future in Pacific training grounds. In Hawaii, 6,350 soldiers have been training since late October. In addition to Poha­kuloa, troops in the islands also have been at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai and at Bellows Air Force Station, Dillingham Army Airfield, the Kahuku Training Area, Kawailoa mountain ranges, Helemano Plantation and Schofield Barracks’ East and South ranges on Oahu for the Hawaii portion of JPMRC 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Here's how Furlough Fridays changed the Board of Education from elected to appointed. Since 1959, Hawaiʻi's education board has flipped between an elected board, and an appointed one. Today, the state Board of Education is an appointed position. The governor nominates 11 individuals, nine of which have voting powers, to be confirmed by the state Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Telcom sets goal to cut emissions by 40% by 2030.
  Hawaiian Telcom has announced a goal of cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in less than 8 years. The telecommunications company said it will create a climate action plan based on this new 2030 target. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui Now. Kauai Now.

Oahu

Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission reestablished with unanimous support. The Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission will finally become active 30 years after it became law. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘There is no playbook’: As next phase of Red Hill defueling begins, focus is on safety. Now that the so-called “unpacking” of the Red Hill pipelines is finished, the Navy is turning its attention to repairs of the Red Hill fuel tanks ― a key phase required before emptying the tanks. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu's CORE program rolling along after a year. It's been a year since the city started its Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement Program -- also known as CORE. KITV4.

A Local Nursery Wants To Make A Native Tree Hawaii’s Choice For Christmas. Hawaii imports an average of 250,000 Christmas trees from the mainland. Many say that’s a waste. As Hawaii begins receiving its annual influx of Christmas trees from the mainland, a plant nursery on Oahu is selling a locally grown, native alternative to celebrate the holidays. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Today’s the day! Drop off your ballot or vote in person until 7 p.m. It’s Election Day! For those still mulling over their candidate choices, today is the last day to get your ballot to the polls. West Hawaii Today.

Large-scale training exercise winds down at PTA. Thousands of military personnel are stationed at Pohakuloa Training Area for a “first of its kind” training exercise. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo doctor prevails in high court decision regarding reimbursements. After seven years of ongoing litigation involving Hilo-based physician Frederick Nitta, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled 5-0 in his favor on Friday in a decision that could impact other Big Island doctors hoping to secure Medicaid reimbursement payments. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui sets up shoreline retreat fund. A new fund to help Maui homeowners manage coastal erosion and address climate change has been approved by the Maui County Council. A bill to create the Maui Managed Retreat Revolving Fund passed the council on Friday in a sweeping vote. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lanai Draws Tenants In Lottery For First Affordable Housing Project In 30 Years. The housing development funded by tech magnate Larry Ellison will almost double the number of affordable housing units on the island. Civil Beat.

Willie Nelson & Family in pre-holiday concert on Maui, Dec. 23. The holidays on Maui will be highlighted this year with a special Willie Nelson & Family concert Friday, Dec. 23 outside under the stars in the MACC’s A&B Amphitheater and Yokouchi Pavilion. Maui Now.

Kauai

Last chance to vote! The deadline is 7 p.m. Activity in and around the voter center located in the historic County Building was brisk on Monday, the day before the General Election. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i council increases disclosure requirements for contractors. Mayor Derek Kawakami said Monday he planned to sign a bill that would increase disclosure requirements for contractors operating in the county. Garden Island.

Brisk business at Lihu‘e Airport in October. Passenger counts at Lihu‘e Airport soared past 70,000 last month, in turn setting a new high for the month of October. Garden Island.

Monday, October 17, 2022

Grim forecast for coral reefs, congressional ethics office calls for Kahele investigation, attorney general seeks to stop auction of Queen Liliuokalani articles, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2022 All Hawaii news all rights reserved
Hawaii coral reef ©2022 All Hawaii News
Half of all coral reefs could face permanent effects of climate change. Half of the world’s coral reefs could no longer be suitable for marine life by 2035. That’s according to the latest University of Hawaiʻi research looking into the worst-case scenarios of climate change on reef ecosystems. Hawaii Public Radio.Kauai Now.

Congressional Ethics Watchdog Calls For Ethics Investigation Into Kahele. No details were released about the allegations the Hawaii congressman might be facing, but his proxy voting record and ties to Hawaiian Airlines have drawn scrutiny. The Office of Congressional Ethics, the independent watchdog charged with investigating allegations of misconduct against House members and their staff, has called for an official inquiry into U.S. Rep. Kai Kahele. Civil Beat.

Governor Candidates On The Environment: Sharp Contrasts And A Little Overlap. Republican Duke Aiona emphasizes lower energy costs, while Democrat Josh Green stresses renewable and sustainable sources. Civil Beat.

Jill Tokuda Looks Like A Shoo-In For Congress. What Would She Do? The question is whether the former state senator, a Democrat, can be effective, especially as a first-term lawmaker in a House that’s expected to be in GOP control. Civil Beat.

State moves to block auction of items related to overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani. The state Department of the Attorney General has put the British auction house Bonhams on notice. At issue are items dating back to the Hawaiian monarchy overthrow that the state maintains belong to Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Hawaii’s Language Access Office Is Having Trouble ‘Fulfilling Its Mission’ The state auditor says OLA “remains a partially formed organization” some 16 years after its establishment. Advocates say that’s keeping non-English speakers from getting much-needed services. Civil Beat.

Menstrual product distribution still uneven in Hawaii schools.
Full statewide implementation of the “menstrual equity” state legislation is turning out to be a more complex and delicate undertaking than even some lawmakers and education officials expected. Star-Advertiser.

GET medical exemption sought: Group says move would make state ‘a more attractive place for doctors’. In an effort to make health care more affordable and alleviate the state’s physician shortage, Grassroot Institute of Hawaii launched a petition urging the Hawaii Legislature to exempt medical services from the state’s general excise tax, or GET. Tribune-Herald.

As RSV cases rise, more people are hospitalized compared to COVID surges
. Cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus — also known as RSV — are increasing in Hawaiʻi and 32 other states. There are other respiratory illnesses spreading as well, including rhinovirus and coronavirus. Hawaii Public Radio.

A deficit of mental health: Pandemic isn’t solely to blame, experts say; politics also a factor. Some  health care providers in Hawaii think the reason for the increase isn’t just the pandemic, citing a variety of symptoms such as stress, political conflict, work staffing shortages, insurance issues and because there’s less of a stigma for those who seek mental health services. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Robberies, weapon crimes rise on Oahu as other major categories fall. Weapon violations, robberies and assaults are on the rise in Honolulu while other major crime categories have fallen off, compared with 2021, according to Hono­lulu police statistics obtained by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Star-Advertiser.

Power struggle festers over Aloha Stadium redevelopment. Mike McCartney, director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, claims that his agency is now in charge of redeveloping Aloha Stadium following more than a decade of work by the Stadium Authority, private consultants, state lawmakers and the state Department of Accounting and General Services. Star-Advertiser.

State wants to drop permit rules for employees of Waikiki ocean activity companies.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is looking to repeal rules that require surf instructors, outrigger canoe captains and other individuals who operate in Waikiki waters to obtain a state permit certifying they have the necessary skills and training, citing liability concerns and lack of “resources or expertise to continue conducting the testing and approval process.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu voters to decide how to use city land conservation fund.
Proposed City Charter amendment No. 3 on the general election ballot asks if 5% of the fund should be expended to operate and maintain those acquired lands. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Ballot Proposal Would Make City Council Services Office A Permanent Agency. The office that performs many legislative duties for the council, including researching and drafting bills and resolutions, may finally get equal status with other agencies. Civil Beat.

Lawyer For Mitsunaga Firm Pleads Not Guilty To Bribing Kaneshiro. A lawyer for an engineering firm whose CEO is accused of bribing Honolulu’s prosecuting attorney pleaded not guilty on Friday to participating in the alleged scheme. Civil Beat.

Navy officials said repairs to a broken 36-inch water main at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam are still at least a week out. Iroquois Point Elementary to remain closed as repairs continue to military water system. Main breaks to the Navy’s water system Friday has left about 90,000 customers under a boil water advisory. Some customers have low water pressure while others have no water at all. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Plan to house the homeless living outside Waianae Boat Harbor. The Pu'uhonua O Wai'anae Farm Village is continuing their fight to end homelessness on Oahu. Village leaders held a groundbreaking ceremony on a project for the dozens of houseless people who called the Waianae Boat Harbor home for years. They will rehome approximately 250 people living in tents – many who are kupuna, and working families with children. KITV4.

Homelessness on public recreation land on Oʻahu an ongoing problem with few solutions. Officials with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources say there’s a long list of challenges and few solutions when it comes to homeless individuals who have taken up residence at O‘ahu’s Sand Island State Recreation Area. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Garden Island.

LGBTQ+ tourism is thriving in Hawaii.
The National Gay Flag Football League’s Gay Bowl XXII Hawaii 2022 Flag Football Tournament, the largest LGBTQ+ event ever held in Honolulu, helped this year’s Honolulu Pride parade surpass the 2019 event, which was the state’s largest parade that year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi Civil Defense Issues Message On Mauna Loa Activity. The Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense said it is closely monitoring the situation, in coordination with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Big Island Video News. KITV4.

Estate, family seek answers in killing of Boy Scout. Court documents filed on behalf of the estate of the 11-year-old Boy Scout who was killed Aug. 28 when a firearm accidentally was discharged said the gun was an “AK-47 semi-automatic assault rifle.” Tribune-Herald.

Ready, set, vote! Ballots are expected to be mailed Wednesday and arrive in Big Island mailboxes shortly after that as the nation counts down to the Nov. 8 general election. West Hawaii Today.
https://www.westhawaiitoday.com/2022/10/15/hawaii-news/ready-set-vote/

‘The Most Important Decision’: Hawaii Police Commission Ponders Criteria For New Chief. With the hiring process set to begin Oct. 24, the police union is urging the commission to use the opportunity to pursue more ambitious goals. Civil Beat.

Bill would increase solar water heater tax credit. A bill increasing the tax credit for eligible homeowners who install a solar water heater will be heard Tuesday by the County Council Finance Committee. Bill 227 would increase the tax credit from $300 to $400 for owners of single-family dwellings, ohanas, farm dwellings and duplexes. West Hawaii Today.

Hāpuna Beach Park And Cabins Closed. A major water break has been reported at Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, and the park & cabin area are closed. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Sparks fly in contentious debate as Maui mayoral candidates vie for votes. In a debate Saturday night organized by Akaku Maui Community Media, incumbent Mayor Mike Victorino defended his record while retired Judge Richard Bissen accused Victorino of being a passive mayor. Hawaii News Now.

Bissen gets Carpenter’s Union endorsement; Victorino endorsed by HSTA; Kama Talk Story. Campaign updates from Maui County. Maui Now.

County to launch energy cost-savings program. Project to install more efficient lighting, sinks and other equipment. Maui County is embarking on a multimillion-dollar project with an international company in hopes of realizing $73 million in energy and water conservation cost during the first phase. Maui News. Hawaii News Now.

Dockless vehicles and parking ambassador program to be discussed in committee. The Maui Council’s Infrastructure and Transportation Committee on Monday will discuss a bill prohibiting a commercial system of short-term rentals of dockless vehicles, and a separate bill authorizing the implementation of a parking ambassador program.  Maui Now.

Pulelehua developer to prioritize affordable units in first phase of West Maui project. Mayor Michael Victorino announced today that the Maui County Council is in receipt of Bill 152, that will help to subsidize shovel-ready development of 100 affordable units in Pulelehua, planned for West Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i mayoral candidates answer questions on drug treatment center, housing, evictions. The Garden Island spoke to mayoral candidates Derek Kawakami and Michael Roven Poai last week on some of the major issues facing the county. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i council candidates make their closing statements. The Garden Island asked the 14 County Council candidates to submit closing statements ahead of the mailing of ballots on Oct. 19. Twelve responded. Garden Island.

What are the Kaua‘i county ballot proposals? Along with picking their elected representatives, voters will have the chance to decide on the fate of four ballot proposals this election season. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Hawaiian sea cucumbers being cultivated for export and fishpond restoration on Kauaʻi.
Kaua‘i Sea Farm, a commercial aquaculture business at the ancient Nomilo fishpond in Kalāheo. has partnered with the O‘ahu nonprofit Pacific American Foundation to cultivate loli as a high-value export product. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.