Showing posts with label Kirk Caldwell. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kirk Caldwell. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Caldwell investigation centers on COVID contract and campaign cash, candidates return $142k in suspect contributions, GOP steps up to monitor elections, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Campaign Spending Commission investigates COVID testing company that got big city contract. The state Campaign Spending Commission is investigating one of the companies that was awarded a multi-million dollar COVID testing contract by former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration. Hawaii News Now has learned that the commission has subpoenaed the bank records of two employees of Capture Diagnostics, which is part of a consortium awarded a $19.5 million emergency contract in 2020 for the city’s testing program at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii political candidates return $142,000 from besieged executive. The former vice chair of the House Committee on Finance who pleaded guilty in February to accepting bribes in the form of cash and casino chips from a Honolulu wastewater systems executive is among 31 state and county lawmakers to return more than $142,000 in campaign contributions from the owner of H20 Process Systems, according to the state Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Fueled by doubts, hundreds of Hawaii Republicans sign up as election observers. Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago said the Republican Party of Hawaii sent about 200 people to be volunteer observers this year. In a typical year, the state Office of Elections would be lucky to get only 50. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii study suggests onslaught of disease amid global warming. As if drought, heat waves, coastal flooding and other extreme weather aren’t enough in a warming world influenced by greenhouse gas emissions, a new study from researchers at the University of Hawaii suggests that humanity also will be threatened by growing incidence of life-threatening disease. Star-Advertiser.

‘It lasts as long as the money lasts’: Enrollment in discounted broadband program low. The Affordable Connectivity Program began at the beginning of 2022, offering eligible low-income families $30 off of their monthly internet bills, or $75 off for households on Hawaiian Home Lands. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Maui Now.

RIMPAC: Tankers central as military looks beyond Red Hill. The largest-ever iteration of the biennial Exercise Rim of the Pacific came to an end last week as ships from the 26 participating countries began either making their way home or moving on to overseas deployments around the Indo-Pacific region. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries’ earnings decline 17.7%. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. posted a 17.7% drop in second-quarter earnings as utility maintenance expenses increased and subsidiary American Savings Bank set aside money for potential loan losses after releasing a significant amount from its loan-loss reserve in the year- earlier period. Revenue, however, jumped 31.7% to $895.6 million from $680.3 million. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

$30 million COVID-19 relief fund established for Honolulu County nonprofit organizations
. The City and County of Honolulu is setting aside $30-million for local non-profit organizations that were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. KITV4.

Honolulu’s Embattled Leahi Avenue Will Be Returning To City Control. City officials say they will put the street back to essentially the way it was before a private owner angered resident, took away street parking and allowed food trucks to operate. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

SEC sues Semisub tour boat, alleging investor fraud. The Securities and Exchange Commission has filed a suit against the Hawaii Semisub tour boat and its founders, who they allege misappropriated at least $1.5 million from investors to pay for personal expenses, including $8,500 per month to rent a Kahala home and over $200,000 on psychics and recreational drugs. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council Candidates Spend Big Bucks On Campaigns As Primary Nears. Ron Menor, Makua Rothman and Tyler Dos Santos-Tam led in fundraising and spending in each of their races last month, according to campaign finance reports. Civil Beat.

Over 141,000 ballots already received in primary. Here's how they're being processed. Ballots collected via mail or dropped off at a deposit box on O’ahu eventually make it to the Hawaiʻi State Capitol building for pre-processing following signature verification from the Honolulu City Clerk’s Office, Scott Nago, the state’s Chief Election Officer, said. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Three vie for Senate District 1. The Democratic primary for state Senate District 1 has two sitting senators facing off against each other and a third candidate who’s a former high-level appointed government executive and union chief. Tribune-Herald.

Program rolled out to ease burden on families for school supplies. Monday marked the official roll-out of the school supply subsidy pilot program, designed to cover the cost of supplies for all schools within the state that meet the financial qualifications. Tribune-Herald.

New Judge Sworn in at Kona Courthouse. Joanna E. Sokolow was sworn in as Judge of the District Family Court of the Third Circuit before colleagues, special guests, family, and friends – many of whom watched remotely. Big Island Now.

Maui

Mayor announces $25M federal grant for Waiʻale Road extension. Mayor Michael Victorino announced today the County of Maui will be awarded $25 million for the Waiʻale Road extension through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity discretionary grant program. Maui Now. KHON2.

In Haleakala National Park, Crews Look To The Past To Understand The Present. More funding and focus has recently been put toward restoring some of Maui’s most historic places. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kaua‘i gets $25 million in RAISE grant infrastructure funds. The federal government awarded the County of Kaua‘i a $25 million grant Monday, which will be used for South Shore transportation improvements. Garden Island.

EPA Fines State Agency For Illegal Kauai Cesspool. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources agreed to scour its 1.3 million acres of property for any additional illegal cesspools. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources paid federal regulators a six-figure fine for operating an illegal cesspool at the site of the former Kamokila Hawaiian Village in Kapaa. Civil Beat. Garden Island.


Monday, May 9, 2022

Ige plans to leave politics at term end, Kahele joins gubernatorial race, Tokuda aims for Congress, high school proms become COVID clusters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2022 All Hawaii News
Kai Kahele ©2022 All Hawaii News

Gov. David Ige ending time in office on high note. There are still seven months left in his second term, but Gov. David Ige is ending his final legislative session on a high note, with historic levels of funding in many cases and a potential $500 million in savings for the next “rainy day.” Star-Advertiser.

Ige begins consideration of new bills at end of legislative session. Following the closure of the state Legislature on Thursday, Gov. David Ige remained coy over what will leave his desk signed or vetoed in the coming weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi legislators get a B-plus for their work this year, local public policy expert says
. While state lawmakers are congratulating themselves for infusing large funds into Native Hawaiian issues and raising the minimum wage, a local public policy expert says he would give their work a B-plus grade. Hawaii Public Radio.

Reflections on Hawaii’s ‘historic’ legislative session shine bright. It’s only 60 days long, but Hawaii’s legislative session this year was a monumental affair featuring some self-reform, historic spending and a return to in-person public participation, all largely in the wake of a bribery scandal, a budget deficit and peak coronavirus infections. Star-Advertiser.

Will Former Lawmakers’ Bribery Charges Lead To Broader Government Reform? The Legislature made some progress this year in increasing government transparency, but leading politicians say there is still much more work to be done. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige to lead Hawaii delegation to Japan.
Ige will be accompanied by First Lady Dawn Amano-Ige; Mike McCartney, director of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism; John De Fries, president of the Hawaii Tourism Authority; George Kam, chair of the Hawaii Tourism Authority; and House Speaker Scott Saiki. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.

It’s official: Kai Kahele leaving Congress for Hawaii governor’s race. U.S. Rep. Kai Kahele ended months of speculation Saturday by announcing that he is running for governor in the Aug. 13 Democratic primary. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Jill Tokuda makes congressional run official. Former state Sen. Jill Tokuda today plans to officially launch her candidacy for the congressional seat held by Rep. Kai Kahele after returning from Washington, D.C., where she protested in front of the U.S. Supreme Court building along with hundreds of other abortion rights supporters. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Tax rebate awaits governor’s approval. A potential $300 credit on most taxpayers’ 2021 tax returns is still alive, with the proposal awaiting Gov. David Ige’s signature or veto. Tribune-Herald.

Bill would OK agricultural lease extensions. Farmers whose land leases are set to expire within the next 15 years will be able to apply for extensions under a bill passed last week by the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

Officials Urge Caution After Covid Cases Are Linked To Proms. The Hawaii Department of Health confirmed several Covid and flu cases after high school proms on Oahu. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi to leave state on personal leave until Friday. Blangiardi is scheduled to return to Honolulu Friday evening. Managing Director Michael Formby will serve as acting mayor. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell’s former chief of staff testifies before federal grand jury. The chief of staff to former Mayor Kirk Caldwell testified as a witness before a federal grand jury Thursday, a month after receiving a subpoena as part of an ongoing public corruption investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health order requires plan and schedule for Red Hill defueling.
The DOH today issued the emergency order, which says that the Navy must provide it with its independent contractor’s assessment on the facility operations by May 15; a plan and schedule to defuel the storage tanks by June 30; and a plan for the closure of the facility by Nov. 1. Star-Advertiser.

Coalition aims to bring crime reduction programs to Waikiki. At a public-safety coalition meeting held last week, public- and private-sector officials responded to a call to beef up crime-fighting initiatives in Waikiki, where several high-profile violent crimes have put the community on alert. Star-Advertiser.

Owner of home that fell onto beach could face big fine. The owner, with the help of a contractor, pulled the home off the beach and stacked it atop pallets next to the lot’s main house, where it has awkwardly remained for weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Housing subsidies advance: Council likes the plan, just unsure how to pay for it. The County Council’s commitment to subsidize affordable housing was expanded last week to include moderate-income families making up to 120% of the average median income, meaning a family of three earning up to $92,520 annually could qualify for a two-bedroom home costing up to $539,000. West Hawaii Today.

The Food Basket plans to build agricultural park to help ease food insecurity, help isle businesses. The proposed four-component innovation park will allow The Food Basket to expand its ongoing efforts to promote the purchase and consumption of locally grown foods from a strategic location on a collaborative campus. Tribune-Herald.

Kohala ahupuaa to become living scientific laboratory. The ‘Iole Stewardship Center has been operating quietly for years on 2,400 acres of Kohala with the goal of restoring the land using the ancient wisdom of the Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Kau confirmed as water director for remainder of mayor’s term. Helene Kau was confirmed by the Maui County Council Friday as director of the county Department of Water Supply for the remainder of Mayor Michael Victorino’s current term, which ends this year. She served as deputy director under Jeffrey Pearson, who left for a state job. Maui News.

Bill setting rules for electric gun sellers in county passes. County facing litigation over delay in enacting law after electric gun sales legalized Jan. 1. Maui News.

Hawaiian Electric May Have To Build A New Oil-Fired Power Plant On Maui. The shutdown of a spare parts supplier in Japan is threatening the ability of Maui’s electric utility to keep a series of 1980s generators firing. Civil Beat.

State funds to aid council efforts for Maalaea wastewater plan. Maui lawmakers have secured funds in the state budget to help move the Maalaea community away from its decadeslong reliance on injection wells, Rep. Angus McKelvey announced Friday. Maui News.

Kāʻeo residential project at Mākena set to start. The 47 acre project will consist of a 103-unit mixed-use community with 30 multi-family units, including 4 workforce housing units, 18 single-family cottages, 32 single-family custom lots, and 14 condominium units. There’s also approximately 27,300 square feet of commercial space planned, that is the home of a future Mākena Cultural & Heritage Center and public retail village. Maui Now.

Election-Year Scramble Looms As Veteran Hawaii Lawmakers Retire. Sen. Roz Baker, one of the Hawaii Senate’s longest-serving members, is retiring this year. Baker, who has represented parts of west and south Maui for more than three decades in both the Senate and the House, is one of Maui’s most seasoned politicians. Civil Beat.

Kauai

County grant recipients announced. The County of Kaua‘i Office of Economic Development announced the recipients of its Innovation Grants for fiscal year 2021-22. Garden Island.

PMRF site of ‘forever chemical’ release. The U.S. military has reported two releases of a toxic chemical in Hawai‘i in the past two years. Both incidents, the last of which occurred in February, were located at the U.S. Navy Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kaua‘i’s Westside. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 3, 2022

State Capitol to reopen to public, jury trials resume, Caldwell joins gubernatorial race, Mauna Kea management plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

courtesy House GOP
Hawaii House opening day 2022 PC:House GOP

State Capitol to reopen to public Monday. Visitors to the state Capitol will have to provide photo identification and proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test within 72 hours to get inside the Capitol when it’s scheduled to reopen to the public on Monday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Jury trials resume after long pause due to COVID. A spokesperson for the Hawaii State Judiciary said although there was a pause, there have been about 100 jury trials during the pandemic. However, legal experts have said those were mostly less serious cases. KHON2.

Bill to replace University of Hawaii stewardship of Mauna Kea advances.
Three state House committees advanced a bill Wednesday that would create a new entity to oversee the state-managed lands of Mauna Kea, including the world-class observatories on Hawaii’s tallest mountain. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Lawmakers to hear public testimony on proposed $600M for Hawaiian Home Lands. Hawaiʻi lawmakers will hear public testimony Thursday on a proposal to invest $600 million into long-term affordable housing for Native Hawaiians. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald.

Kirk Caldwell joins gubernatorial race. Former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced his candidacy for governor this week with a series of ads in daily newspapers across the islands that included the headline, “Even if some don’t think I can win.” Star-Advertiser.

Bill Requiring More Info On Police Arrests And Use Of Force Dies In Hawaii Senate. Senate Bill 2318 is dead after four committees failed to hold a hearing on the bill supporters say would improve police transparency. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Advance Measures To Fund The Police Standards Board. But the bills also require new standards to apply only to officers hired after 2024. Civil Beat.

DOH Revises Interim Administrative Rules for Medical Cannabis Dispensary Licensing Program. The Hawaii State Department of Health revised interim administrative rules for the medical cannabis licensing program went into effect on Feb. 24. Big Island Now.

University of Hawaii unveils public portal for information on climate. The Hawaii Climate Data Portal — set to go live today — is an open-source platform with easy public access to reams of climate data and information along with data products, climate tools, links and more. Star-Advertiser.

Connors: COVID fraud crackdown a priority. The top federal law enforcer in Hawaii said Wednesday that President Joe Biden’s announced crackdown on those responsible for stealing billions in coronavirus relief funds is a priority for her as well. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii reports 166 new COVID infections, 7 additional fatalities. The statewide test positivity rate is 2.7%. -- the positivity rate in Honolulu County is 2.5%; on the Big Island it's 3.5%; in Maui County it's 3.2%; and on Kauai it is 5.1%. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 236,435 total infections to date. KITV4.

Oahu

Native Hawaiians waited years for homes on their ancestral land. Then the problems began. Given questions about the department’s responsibilities to Hawaiians and its approach to construction oversight, the Star-Advertiser and ProPublica undertook to find out how satisfied beneficiary homeowners were. The news organizations canvassed the two most recent homesteading subdivisions in Kapolei, a region of former sugar cane land where much of Oahu’s single-family housing has been built the past several decades. Star-Advertiser.

Judge In Conspiracy Case OKs Deposition Of Terminally Ill Ex-Budget Director. Three former Honolulu officials facing federal indictment believe Nelson Koyanagi can provide information that helps their defense. Civil Beat.

Blangiardi appoints Arthur Tolentino to HART Board of Directors. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi has appointed Arthur Tolentino to the Board of Directors of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, the overseeing authority for Honolulu’s rail transit project. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Climate Change Lawsuit Against Oil Companies Will Proceed, Judge Rules. The case is the first of its kind to reach the discovery phase in which oil companies will have to share documents, the city said. Civil Beat.

Amid staffing shortages, HPD eyes 12-hour shifts for patrol officers. Honolulu’s interim police chief and the SHOPO union have met three times in recent weeks to address staffing shortages in patrol divisions. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Mayor Rick Blangiardi considering contract allowing media access to first-responder radio. City attorneys are reviewing the legality of restoring public access to first ­responder radio traffic after Mayor Rick Blangiardi expressed interest in a contractual agreement with Honolulu media outlets permitting them to listen in. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kahele tours Kona: Congressman visits multiple sites, gets update on airport plans. Plans and visions for Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole were presented Tuesday to U.S. Rep. Kai Kahele during his multi-day tour of West Hawaii sites. West Hawaii Today.

Kona teacher on unpaid leave after criminal charges filed. A Konawaena Middle School teacher facing three counts of sexual assault against a minor has been placed on leave. West Hawaii Today.

Russian, Belarusian athletes banned from upcoming Ironman events
The Ironman Group is banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from all upcoming events this year, including May’s world championship in Kona. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

This Company Wants To Sell You A Second Home On Maui — Or At Least A Piece Of One. A startup that buys luxury houses and sells shares in them to buyers interested in owning second homes has started operating on Maui, alarming some local residents who are tired of wealthy investors buying up property on the island. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Despite criticism from former commanders, MPD chief stands by changes to training, staffing. Eleven weeks into his new position, Maui Police Chief John Pelletier is defending a host of changes that have prompted some of his commanders to leave. Hawaii News Now.

Kīpahulu Campground reopens with new online reservation system, March 16. Campsites now can only be reserved using the new online reservation system, which is required for all campsites in the campground. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i OPA requests funds for drug, domestic violence cases.
County Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like requested Kaua‘i County Council approval last week to receive federal grant funds to aid in the county’s ongoing efforts to prosecute drug crimes and domestic violence. Garden Island.

KIUC board of directors election ballots go out. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative members who are receiving ballots for the 2022 Board of Directors election are alerted to a contractor error on the “Instruction to Voters” section of the ballot. Garden Island.

Thursday, January 13, 2022

Former Honolulu top officials indicted in alleged corruption conspiracy and surrender to FBI, possible repercussions in gubernatorial race, nurses' union head says avoid hospitals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii News Now
An FBI agent handcuffs former Honolulu Corporation Counsel Donna Leong on Wednesday, Jan. 12 PC: Hawaii News Now

3 former Honolulu city executives charged with conspiracy as part of sprawling Kealoha corruption probe. In a stunning scene Wednesday morning, three former high-ranking city officials -- former city Managing Director Roy Amemiya, former Corporation Counsel Donna Leong and former Honolulu Police Commission Chairman Max Sword--surrendered to the FBI as part of the ongoing massive public corruption probe that resulted in the conviction of ex-Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. KHON2. KITV4.

Federal indictments may hurt Kirk Caldwell’s run for governor. The federal indictments of two of former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s top lieutenants are likely to further cripple Caldwell’s gubernatorial hopes this year, but likely will have less effect on the lieutenant governor’s race. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

SHOPO: Allegations against former Honolulu city officials are 'sickening'. Robert Cavaco, president of the State of Hawai'i Organization of Police Officers,  said the money the three allegedly embezzled could have been used to hire more officers for the already short-staffed Honolulu Police Department. KITV4.

Voter registration database questioned. Investigating errors and possible fraud in the state’s voter registration database is the responsibility of the county elections clerks and not the state, Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago told the state Elections Commission on Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

It’s Tough To Figure Out Just How Hard The Pandemic Has Hit The Hawaii Economy. Personal income in Hawaii actually increased overall during the pandemic, but experts say people are going to be worse off this year as federal bailout money dries up. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii grad students continue fight for unionization. Student leaders working to unionize graduate assistants at the University of Hawaii said they plan to appeal a First Circuit Court rejection of their lawsuit seeking the right to engage in collective bargaining with the university. Star-Advertiser.

Some Hawaii public schools have not shared COVID-19 case counts for months. Forty-two Hawaii public schools as of Tuesday had not posted their COVID-19 case counts to the state Department of Education’s public dashboard since before winter break, even though they are required by state law to do so weekly. Star-Advertiser.

Relief in sight as hospitals grapple with staffing shortage. An estimated 250 to 260 contracted health care workers from the mainland are expected to arrive in Hawaii this weekend to help care for COVID-19 patients, according to the Healthcare Association of Hawaii, a nonprofit trade association for hospitals. Star-Advertiser.

Head of nurses union: Severe staffing shortage at hospitals is impacting patient care. "I would tell the public if at all possible stay away from hospitals right now," said Daniel Ross, the head of the Hawaii’s Nurses Association. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii records 5 new coronavirus-related deaths, 3,512 additional infections. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 2,612 new cases on Oahu, 290 on Hawaii Island, 373 on Maui, 158 on Kauai, 19 on Molokai, eight on Lanai and 52 Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu company to pay $1.5M to security guards after denying overtime wages. An Oahu company that provides security guards to public and private facilities will have to pay over $1.5 million in back wages after a federal investigation determined it illegally denied workers overtime pay. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Chief Search Expected To Take At Least 6 More Months
. PSI Services LLC, the consulting firm hired to assist in the search, said it plans to present the police commission with up to four finalists in June. Civil Beat.

Kapilina residents file class action TRO to not pay rent, utilities during the water contamination crisis. Kapilina Beach Homes residents affected by the Navy’s ongoing contamination crisis filed a class action complaint, on Jan. 6, demanding a jury trial to stop their landlords from charging rent and utilities. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Costco buys Ewa site for distribution center. Costco has made a huge real estate investment on Oahu, buying a more-or-less finished 44-acre industrial park property on the Ewa plain within the growing master-planned Ho‘opili community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

8 projects ID’d for Puna: List includes waterlines, wells aimed at helping region recover from 2018 eruption. The few remaining homes in Kapoho might get their water restored after all. Tribune-Herald.

No Pohoiki Boat Ramp until 2024 at the earliest. The Pohoiki Boat Ramp is now not expected to reopen until late 2024. Tribune-Herald.

Funds for Waikōloa Library Secured, But Planned Location Falls Through.
The reality of a library in Waikōloa Village moved one step closer with the release of state funding, however, the project also hit a setback in that same stride. Big Island Now.

Parker Ranch donates Pukalani Stables to Paniolo Preservation Society. The historic Pukalani Stables in Waimea will be donated to the Paniolo Preservation Society, Parker Ranch announced recently. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Cruise ship arrives at Kahului Harbor, first with passengers to disembark in 22 months. The Grand Princess cruise ship arrived at Kahului Harbor on Maui today with an estimated 1,188 passengers aboard and 900-plus crew members. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

‘A lot of interest’ in proposed 25-mile West Maui bike, foot trail
. Wheels are turning on plans to create a 25-mile multi-use biking and walking trail that will connect Ukumehame to Līpoa Point in West Maui. Maui Now.

New streamlined registration process for riding Da Bee shuttles on Maui. The County of Maui Department of Management has a new streamlined registration process for riding the Da Bee shuttle in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

County Council discusses visitor parking fees at certain Kaua‘i beach parks. At its meeting Wednesday, the council passed a resolution allowing the county Department of Parks and Recreation to establish visitor parking fees at three county-owned beach parks, and approved at first reading a bill that would create a fee schedule. Garden Island.

8 days after landslide cut off west Kauai community, crews still racing to remove debris. Menehune Road remains below piles of rocks and crews are working to stabilize the slope. Hawaii News Now.

Kaua‘i home prices highest in state. Kaua‘i’s annual median single-family home price increased by over 35% in 2021 from the year prior to hit $1.1 million, the highest in the state, according to data from Hawai‘i independent real-estate firm Locations. Garden Island.

Thursday, February 4, 2021

Ige nixes furloughs, Green leads Caldwell in campaign donations, FEC sends $24M for broadband improvements, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

from video
Hawaii Gov. David Ige

Ige: No Furloughs Necessary This Year. In the latest wrinkle in the long-running saga of proposed public worker furloughs, Gov. David Ige said Wednesday it won’t be necessary to impose twice-per-month furloughs on state workers on July 1 after all. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers Want Their ‘Gifts Of Aloha’ Back. Several bills this session attempt to shirk new rules from the state Ethics Commission. Civil Beat.

State senators advance confirmation of acting labor director. Despite ongoing problems with the state’s unemployment system, the acting state labor director got a vote of confidence from members of the state Senate. Hawaii News Now.

Senate Bill Would Force Dept. of Education to Report COVID-19 Cases by School. Right now, the Department of Education only reveals COVID-19 cases by complex area. KITV4.

Green Leads Caldwell In Campaign Donations For Next Governor’s Race. The lieutenant governor and former Honolulu mayor are likely competitors in the 2022 contest. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boy Nick Ochs Charged With Criminal Conspiracy. A new indictment unsealed Wednesday by the U.S. Justice Department accuses Ochs of several new crimes that carry heftier penalties. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Annual police misconduct reports released for the first time with officer names.  Annual police misconduct reports from all the counties have been submitted to the Hawaii State Legislature. KHON2.

FCC Awards $24 Million to Hawaiian Telecom for Rural Broadband Deployment. The Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund has awarded Hawaiian Telecom $24 million to continue deploying fiber broadband service to unserved and underserved rural areas in Hawai‘i. Maui Now.

Bills would make catalytic converter theft a felony in Hawaii.
Increasing demand for stolen precious metals contained in vehicle catalytic converters has prompted two bills that would make thefts of catalytic converters a Class C felony and require more documentation from sellers and Hawaii scrap dealers willing to buy them. Star-Advertiser.

With COVID precautions in place, influenza cases in Hawaii are near zero. Hawaii has so far dodged what health experts feared could be a “twindemic,” with COVID-19 combined with the flu, which has virtually disappeared since last summer. Star-Advertiser.

Remaining diligent; Contact tracers still at work as COVID vaccine rollout continues. Nearly 300 contact tracers are still at work in Hawaii as the focus in the fight against COVID-19 has turned largely to ongoing vaccination efforts. Tribune-Herald.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 3: 74 New COVID-19 Infections And 4 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 74 new cases Wednesday, including 41 on Oahu, 23 on Maui, four on the Big Island, and six Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Chief Susan Ballard says HPD still investigating COVID overtime violations. The Honolulu Police Department is continuing its investigation into apparent overtime violations within the department’s COVID-19 enforcement teams, according to Police Chief Susan Ballard. Star-Advertiser.

‘Significant’ Disparity In Use Of Force Questioned By Honolulu Police Commission. Honolulu police commissioners say they are concerned over the Honolulu Police Department’s treatment of Pacific Islanders, Native Hawaiians and Black people when it comes to use of force and even arrest rates. Civil Beat.

Judge Sends Former Cop Who Flipped On The Kealohas To Prison. A former Big Island firefighter who admitted to having an affair with Katherine Kealoha received a much more lenient sentence. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

The teen suspect in a nationwide cell phone hacking scheme was arrested in Aina Haina on Wednesday morning and now faces three felony charges. HPD sources say he’s just 16 years old and in the 11th grade. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kern confirmed: Council votes 5-4 on new planning director. Zendo Kern was confirmed Wednesday as county planning director by the skin of his teeth, after Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball switched her vote and decided to support him. West Hawaii Today.

COVID Test Surplus Could Help Reopen Big Island High Schools. The discovery of a surplus of COVID-19 antigen tests has created a potential path to bring Big Island high school students back into the classroom. Big Island Now.

Council approves funding for changes to Kalanianaole project. The County Council passed a bill to provide funding for changes to the long-delayed Kalanianaole Avenue improvement project. Tribune-Herald.

Community Opposition Grows in Kohala Over Proposed Development Near Pololū Valley Lookout. The proposal would improve access to the area’s popular hiking trail, but it could also open the door to residential development on the valley ridgeline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Settlement claims bills include 2 items related to Big Island charter schools. A pair of companion bills introduced in the state Legislature requesting more than $1.73 million to pay off claims against the state include a couple of Hawaii Island cases, both including Big Island public charter schools. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County granted $40M in rent, utilities assistance from COVID relief. Maui Mayor Mike Victorino announced on Tuesday, Feb. 2, that Maui County is set to receive $40 million for relief from delinquent rent and utility bills in the next round of COVID relief funding. KHON2.

Maui Shark Encounter Detailed
, Experts Say Bite Mark is Consistent with a White Shark. Maui Now. KHON2.

Kauai

Amendments made to Westside beach driving bill. Wednesday, the state Senate’s Committee on Land and Water amended and removed Kekaha Beach Park specific portions of a bill that would require permits to drive on the beach. Garden Island.

Wailua Golf Course short $250K. Keeping tee-time rates low at the Wailua Golf Course comes at a price. This fiscal year, that may be about $250,000 that the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation is estimating the Golf Fund will fall short. Garden Island.

Monk Seals Found Dead In Kauai Likely Drowned In Fishing Nets. Two endangered Hawaiian monk seals initially thought to have been shot or beaten last year in Kauai likely drowned after getting trapped in fishing nets, officials said Wednesday. Civil Beat. Big Island Now. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.


Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Kealoha trial delayed, City Council to move out of Honolulu Hale, Kamehameha Schools pays $65M to settle sex abuse lawsuit, Maui ballot initiative to raise unlicensed vacation rental fine to $20k, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Honolulu Hale ©2018 All Hawaii News
Mayor Caldwell questions city council’s decision to relocate from Honolulu Hale to new million-dollar digs. The city council approved funding for one year’s rent at Alii Tower in downtown. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is trying to stop city council members from spending more than a million dollars to move from Honolulu Hale to a high-end downtown office building. Hawaii News Now.

Health concerns prompt city council's proposal to move out of Honolulu Hale. Council members tell us their portion of the building has been making employees sick. KHON2.

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Kealoha trial delayed after review of Katherine’s medical records. A federal judge Tuesday afternoon delayed the start of next month’s bank fraud trial of retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas’ Bank Fraud Trial Delayed Until 2019. The federal magistrate scolded the prosecutor for claiming Katherine Kealoha had a history of “feigning serious illness.” Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s trial delayed due to undisclosed medical condition. It’s the latest in a long list of medical claims Kealoha has used over the years. Hawaii News Now.

Judge grants Katherine Kealoha's request to delay trial over medical condition. KHON2.

A federal judge moved the start date of the bank fraud trial against former Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, and her husband, former Chief of Police in Honolulu Louis Kealoha to 2019 because of an undisclosed medical condition. KITV.

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Elected officials from Hawaii, California, and Alaska gathered at the White House for a 'State Leadership Day' event. KITV.

Kamehameha pays $65 million as part of settlement of sex abuse lawsuit. Kamehameha Schools has taken a major step to close one of the most tumultuous chapters in its long and storied history, paying $65 million to 32 plaintiffs who sued the institution for the sexual abuse they suffered decades ago at the hands of a psychiatric consultant. Star-Advertiser.

As early voting begins, Tupola, Ige point out distinct differences in opinions. The two are preparing for the General Election on Nov. 6. Hawaii News Now.

Gabbard Spending A Lot Of Campaign Cash, But Not All Of It In Hawaii. The congresswoman is hiring well-known national consultants despite having an easy path to re-election. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines' net up 31% after 'eventful' quarter. Two hurricanes in Hawaii, a typhoon in Japan, lingering impacts from the Kilauea eruption and rising fuel costs didn’t prevent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. from carrying the most passengers of any third quarter ever or achieving a solid financial performance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Holdings Inc., the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, reported a 30.6 percent increase in earnings to $93.5 million in the third quarter of 2018, bolstered by a 6 percent increase in revenue to $759 million. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City is on track repaving roads islandwide, Caldwell says. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday announced that more than 2,000 lane miles of roads in Honolulu have been repaved over the last five years and that fixing the city’s roads and potholes remains a high priority. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell: City is exceeding road repaving goals, despite recent ranking. About 2,000 lane miles have been repaved at lower costs, the mayor says. Hawaii News Now.

The city says it's ahead of schedule when it comes to fixing the island's roads. So far, the city has repaved 2,000 lane miles and filled over 16,000 potholes. KHON2.

Mayor Caldwell claims the City has repaved more than 2,000 lane miles on Oahu. KITV.

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Honolulu Councilman blames mayor for stalling beach access plan. Efforts to secure a small lane for public access to a beach off Portlock Road have been stalled by Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration, and City Councilman Trevor Ozawa, who represents the area, is questioning whether election-year politics is to blame. Star-Advertiser.

Early Walk-In Voting started today across the state. Twenty people were waiting in line at Honolulu Hale when the polling station opened at 8am. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapolei Public Library closed until further notice after pipe bursts, floods first floor. Officials say an air conditioning cooling pipe burst, causing water to spill from the ceiling onto the building's first floor. KHON2.

Queen’s to expand services in West Oahu. The Queen’s Health Systems is planning an expansion that will double the amount of facilities at its West Oahu campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s largest wind farm has come up with a new proposal to offset, and hopefully reduce, killings of endangered Hawaiian hoary bats. Star-Advertiser.

Helicopter removed from Kaneohe Bay, NTSB investigating crash. The tour helicopter that went down in Kaneohe Bay Monday afternoon has been pulled from the water, though what exactly happened remains under investigation. KHON2.

The FAA and NTSB are continuing an investigation into what caused a tour helicopter to crash near the Kaneohe Bay sandbar on Monday afternoon, seriously injuring three people on board. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Visitor numbers down for the fourth month in a row. The impact of the Kilauea eruption on the Big Island’s tourism industry continues to be felt as official tourism data from September indicates a fourth consecutive month of declining hotel visits. Tribune-Herald.

East, West Hawaii Come Together On Water Quality. Big Island Video News.

Residents invited to get to know Innergex. A Canadian-based renewable energy company will host a community meeting next week in Waimea about its proposed solar project on Parker Ranch land. Tribune-Herald.

David De Luz Sr. remembered by friends, family. Prominent Big Island businessman David De Luz Sr. is being remembered by those who knew him as a role model and self-made entrepreneur who worked hard to achieve success. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Should Unlicensed Airbnbs On Maui Face A $20,000 Fine? Voters will decide whether to amend the county charter to crack down on the proliferation of vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

West Maui Taxpayers Association to Host 2018 Candidates Night. The WMTA Candidates Night, the only forum of its kind in West Maui, and will feature the candidates for State Senator District 06, State Representative District 10, Maui mayor and Maui County Councilmembers—all districts. Maui Now.

Paltin, Nava face off in general election. In what is arguably one of the most closely watched County Council races this election cycle, Tamara Paltin and Rick Nava hope to fill the West Maui residency seat soon to be vacated by Elle Cochran, who is running for mayor. Maui News.

Kihei Charter School Opens in Permanent Location. After 18-years, Kihei Charter School has finally found a permanent home at the top of Līpoa Parkway in Kihei within the Maui Research and Technology Park. Maui Now.

Kauai

County Council Candidate: Juno Apalla. When it comes to vision, Juno Apalla strives for efficiency. Garden Island.

DHHL boots CrossFit from building. Organizers of the free community gym in Anahola are getting their ducks in a row after being kicked out of their space in an old church because they didn’t have proper permits. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Cat 4 Hurricane Lane about 200 miles from Hawaiian Islands, Trump issues presidential disaster declaration, emergency shelters open, FEMA arrives, seaports close, here's what you need to know to stay safe

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane track 5 a.m. Thursday Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane continued to weaken slightly overnight but is still moving closer to the islands. Clocking in with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph and moving northwest at 7 mph, Lane was located about 210 miles south-southwest of Kailua-Kona and 305 miles south of Honolulu at 5 a.m., according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rains pound Big Island as Cat 4 Lane barrels toward Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Trump issues presidential disaster declaration as Lane marches toward Hawaii. Hawaii leaders are ramping up preparations for Hurricane Lane as the ferocious Category 4 storm continues to march toward the island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Islands remain vulnerable as category 4 Hurricane Lane continues to move northwest. KITV.

Hurricane Closes Hawaii’s Harbors, Freezing A Fragile Supply Chain. If Hurricane Lane strikes Oahu, officials say they have a plan in place to clear roads for emergency access as soon possible. Civil Beat.

Depending on hurricane track and scope of damage, Hawaiian Electric says customers should anticipate power outages from Hurricane Lane. KHON2.

Unplugged. That will likely become reality for many in Hawaii as Hurricane Lane triggers power outages, the Hawaiian Electric companies warned Wednesday as they urged customers to prepare. Star-Advertiser.

Power outage tips: Keep your refrigerator closed, unplug other appliances. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA workers arrive in Hawaii; airports remain open. About 150 FEMA workers are spread out across the state to help out with Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s a list of Hurricane Lane emergency shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Forecasting Hurricanes In The ‘Cone Of Uncertainty’ Is A Rough Challenge. Meteorologists get plenty of data to predict a storm’s path, but even minor fluctuations in models can mean a world of difference. Civil Beat.

Category strengths of a hurricane and wind shear ... How do they relate? Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane impacts U.S. Postal Service operations, mail delivery. KHON2.

State investigating reports of price gouging as Hurricane Lane nears. KHON2.

Insurance commissioner authorizes assistance of unlicensed adjusters due to Hurricane Lane. Pacific Business News.

Real estate contributes to Hawaii's empty shelves as hurricane approaches. The empty supermarket shelves Hawaii residents are finding this week as they try to prepare for Hurricane Lane are a byproduct of the cost of shipping and industrial real estate in the Islands. Pacific Business News.

Storm likely to further curb September hotel performance. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Relaxes Rabies Rules for Hawaii-Bound Pets. Owners will be allowed to bring their dogs and cats to the islands 30 days after completing tests and vaccines, instead of 120 days. Civil Beat.

State's Plans To Deal With Abandoned and Derelict Cars. The problem of abandoned and derelict vehicle varies from island to island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Mayor says slow-moving storm could cause major problems. Mayor Kirk Caldwell, flanked by first responders, urged Oahu residents to prepare for the coming of Hurricane Lane and to shelter in place. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Designates 20 Schools As Hurricane Shelters. The shelters — to be used as a last resort — have a total capacity of 55,000, according to city officials. Civil Beat.

Pearl Harbor ships and subs head to sea ahead of Lane. Navy ships and submarines based in Hawaii — excluding those undergoing maintenance — began an exodus from Pearl Harbor Wednesday as Hurricane Lane, still packing 145 mph winds, swirled ever closer to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Last-minute shopping a challenge. Don Quijote was one of the stores that had sold out of water, butane and flashlights, but were expecting an emergency shipment Wednesday night of additional pallets of water and butane. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to Oahu brace for Hurricane Lane, tourism impacted. Gusts of wind blew through Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Wednesday as travelers braced for the unknown. KHON2.

Hundreds of residents on Hawaiian Homelands are without phone and internet service as Hurricane Lane threatens the state. KHON2.

Honolulu police officers, state officials and outreach workers canvassed various communities on Wednesday to warn Oahu’s homeless population about Hurricane Lane and urge them to seek shelter. Hawaii News Now.

Art Ushijima, president and CEO of The Queen’s Health Systems, said Wednesday he will retire in January 2020 after nearly 30 years on the job. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bracing for Lane: County, state prepare as significant rain, flooding and high winds are expected from hurricane. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim stressed Wednesday that West Hawaii residents need to remain vigilant as Hurricane Lane remained on course to pass very close to the Hawaiian Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Storm-tested East Hawaii residents take Lane in stride. Despite the approach of Hurricane Lane, residents on the east side of the Big Island were largely unperturbed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

No panic in Kailua-Kona as residents prep for hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Disaster-Weary Big Island Braces For Lane’s First Effects. South- and west-facing coastal areas are considered at greatest risk in Hawaii County. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County won’t even begin collecting its share of the general excise tax for more than four months, but there’s already disagreement over how to spend it. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa hosted a press conference on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Hurricane Lane as it continues its approach up the island chain. Maui Now.

Maui County officials are preparing for the worst that Hurricane Lane might bring — and are bracing for a long recovery. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County residents, tourists and businesses are preparing for Hurricane Lane and the possibility of stores running out of supplies due to the anticipated closure of all ports statewide when the storm hits. Maui News.

Maui visitors deal differently with approaching storm. Star-Advertiser.

Feels Like Hana Of Old After Hurricane Threat Chases Tourists Away. The iconic but usually congested Hana Highway is quiet as confident residents get ready to hunker down. Civil Beat.

C-SPAN bus visits Maui with Lane looming. Mobile TV studio parked at county building, mall. Maui News.

Kauai

In this together. Stores like Times, Costco, The Home Depot and Longs weren’t quite as busy Wednesday, but residents and visitors alike were stocking up on essentials before the possibility of Hurricane Lane wreaking havoc on Kauai. Garden Island.

Wainiha-Haena residents are being advised to evacuate the area today due to the possibility of tropical storm force winds and heavy rains. Garden Island.

Water diversion plan contested. A move to amend the Interim Inflow Stream Standard for the Waikoko and North Fork Wailua streams by State of Hawaii Commission on Water Resources Management Tuesday has been delayed due to a request for a contested-case hearing filed by Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

End of an era for last Hawaii sugar plantation, Hawaiian Electric seeks land, Ige touts $10M for innovation, Caldwell outspent Djou 4-1 in Honolulu mayoral race, state Supreme Court dings Hilo judge for closing records, uranium plan completed for Pohakuloa, Diamond Head homeless eviction sought, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Facebook photo by Gilbert Keith-Agaran
Sen. Brian Schatz at sugar mill as harvest, Facebook photo by Gilbert Keith-Agaran
The 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. plantation in Puunene on Maui held its last harvest Monday with hundreds of former and current workers, families, public officials and community leaders in attendance, and the head of Hawaii’s last major sugar plantation may have summed up the day best when he quoted a Hawaiian poet by saying, “it is what it is.” Pacific Business News.

It started with two horn beeps delivered by Fermin Domingo from the cab of an 80-ton Tournahauler on Monday morning, and then the final load of sugar cane that likely will ever be produced on a plantation in Hawaii was fed into the mill of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. Star-Advertiser.

Sugar workers, retirees and company officials expressed sadness as well as pride as they witnessed “an end of an era” Monday with the delivery of the last load of sugar cane from the fields to the Puunene Mill. Maui News.

Workers delivered the final truckload of cane to the state's last remaining sugar mill on Monday. Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company held a commemoration event at its Puunene factory with an estimated 700 employees, retirees and community leaders. Hawaii News Now.

The only remaining sugar mill in Hawaii is ending its final harvest. Associated Press.

Facebook photo Gilbert Keith-Agaran
Gilbert Keith-Agaran
Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company commemorates its final sugar harvest today (Monday, Dec. 12, 2016) following months of transition work. Maui Now.

Hawai’i’s last sugarcane harvest ended on Maui today and state leaders are asking, “What Next?”   That was the focus of a panel discussion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Commercial & Sugar held a ceremony Monday for its final harvest.  HC&S is the last sugar plantation in Hawaii. KITV.

It’s the end of an era for Hawaii’s sugar industry, as the final sugar harvest in our state took place Monday morning in Puunene on Maui. KHON2.

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Gov. David Ige has pledged to propose $10 million of the state budget be used to help build the innovation sector. Ige said he would request the funds be used for the state-run HI Growth Initiative, which was created to attract private investment to innovation in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

State and county employers likely will have to contribute more money into the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System as early as July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has appointed two state employees as the new deputy directors for the state Department of Budget and Finance and the Department of Human Resources Development. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said Monday it is looking for land to build more renewable-energy projects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is looking to expand its renewable energy portfolio with more large-scale projects, the Honolulu-based utility said this week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Companies
announced a search for land to house potential renewable energy production. The request for information comes from Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric Company and the Hawaii Electric Light Co. Tribune-Herald.

Tulsi Gabbard For President? A reporter for The New Yorker suggests 13 women candidates for 2020. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Caldwell Outspent Djou Nearly 4-to-1 In Honolulu Mayor’s Race. The mayor raised $3.6 million, and a super PAC kicked in nearly $1 million more to support his re-election bid. Civil Beat.

The ZipMobile broke down for at least the third time in as many years Monday, snarling the early- morning town-bound traffic on the H-1 freeway. Star-Advertiser.

The state is planning to evict homeless campers from more than 40 tent and tarp encampments on the slopes of the Diamond Head State Monument. Civil Beat.

Beach erosion reveals scattered bones at Mokuleia. Hawaii News Now.

Judge denies early release for firefighter in H-1 crash that killed officer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Monday issued an opinion that took issue with the way a state judge sealed documents in a criminal case, with the justices underscoring the need to protect confidential information while ensuring the public’s right to access judicial proceedings and records. Star-Advertiser.

A site-specific Environmental Radiation Monitoring Plan has been finalized for the Pohakuloa Training Area. Big Island Video News.

Nonexplosive but designed to fool passers-by is how police described a suspicious device that caused businesses to close and traffic rerouted Friday in downtown Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Department of Water Supply is working to resolve pumping issues in Wakiu, Hāna. Maui Now.

Hawai‘i’s Board of Land and Natural Resources approved a one-year permit to Alexander and Baldwin that will allow them to continue diverting water from streams in East Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Co. plantation on Maui, which will close on Dec. 23 and effectively end the era of the sugar industry in Hawaii, will soon begin to see a major expansion of cattle ranching on the former cane fields, a company executive told Pacific Business News.

Maui County single-family homes continued their climb in value in November, while condominium prices fell compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released last week by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Island School’s proposal to reclassify land took a big step forward as the school submitted its petition to the State Land Use Commission. Garden Island.

Larry Richardson hopes the loaner life jacket station will save lives Saturday at the Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor launch ramp. Garden Island.

Molokai

With the ferry no longer operating, a U.S. Coast Guard crew helped the Salvation Army deliver 800 toys and clothes to Molokai children on Friday. Maui News.