Showing posts with label Obamacare. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Obamacare. Show all posts

Monday, October 8, 2018

Panel seeks independent oversight of state jails, inmates mistakenly released, tent cities planned for homeless, gecko speed-dials from Kona animal hospital, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Inmate overflow area at Hawaii County Community Correctional ©2018 All Hawaii News
Task force calls for jail oversight committee. The lack of public information about inmate suicides is just one reason a 13-member task force chaired by Hawaii Supreme Court Associate Justice Michael Wilson is recommending the state create an independent oversight commission to inspect and monitor correctional facilities, investigate complaints, report findings to the public and shepherd in broad reforms to Hawaii’s prison system. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Bail System Keeps Poor People In Jail Longer — So Where’s The Fix? A state task force’s recommendations to the Legislature on pretrial procedures won’t contain any “big surprises,” despite calls for reform. Civil Beat.

The state wants to open 6 ‘ohana zones’ for the homeless. (Just don’t call them tent cities). The state Legislature funded the project with up to $30 million. Hawaii News Now.

An inventory of land owned by the state and who pays to use it has been laid out in a new statewide public online database after more than a decade of efforts to create such a system. Star-Advertiser.

State unveils new database of land holdings and revenue. KITV.

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If You Don’t Vote On Constitutional Questions, You’ve Just Voted ‘No’. Thanks to a 1997 Supreme Court ruling, the deck is stacked against the ConCon and the constitutional amendment for school funding. Civil Beat.

In one month Hawaii voters will decide whether or not to amend the state constitution. The specific amendment under consideration would create a property tax surcharge to fund public education. Hawaii Public Radio.

Will the proposed constitutional amendment raise taxes for everyone? KHON2.

Teachers go door-to-door to urge voters to support surcharge to fund education. Opponents say the proposed constitutional amendment is poorly-written and vague. Hawaii News Now.

Ad Watch: First TV Spot Says A ConCon Would Cost Too Much. But a new political action committee with powerful friends doesn’t cite a source for its estimated price of a constitutional convention. Civil Beat.

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The Office of Elections conducted an accuracy test of the vote counting system Saturday morning on Oahu. It’s the system that will be used in the Nov. 6 general election to count the ballots from voters around the state. Hawaii News Now.

Ballot machines tested ahead of November election. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige has nominated Keith K. Hiraoka to serve on the state Intermediate Court of Appeals. Star-Advertiser.

About 32,000 people in Hawaii currently purchasing Affordable Care Act plans will see lower premiums in 2019 than the rates initially proposed by Hawaii Medical Service Association and Kaiser Permanente Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy ranked Hawaii 16th best in the country for state government policies and programs aimed at becoming greener users of energy. Star-Advertiser.

Monday is Discoverers' Day in Hawaii and it has not been a state holiday by statute since 1988. KHON2.


Pierre Omidyar, founder of eBay and Hawaii’s wealthiest full-time resident, moved up 10 notches to No. 38 on this year’s list of the 400 richest Americans compiled by Forbes magazine, with a fortune worth $2 billion more than a year ago. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is considering a request from Mayor Kirk Caldwell to chip in at least $500,000 to help the city host next year’s U.S. Conference of Mayors. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s housing market hit another record in September with the median price of single-family homes climbing to $812,500. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Kamehameha Schools Teacher Convicted Of Filming Students In Shower. Gabriel Alisna faces another trial on sexual assault charges for allegedly inappropriately touching a teen. Associated Press.

Former Kamehameha Schools teacher found guilty. KHON2.

Manoa Falls Trail to reopen Monday after 2-week closure. Crews stabilized weak points after surveying the area. The popular Manoa Falls Trail and Aihualama Trail will reopen Monday after the Department of Land and Natural Resources deemed the area safe following a rockfall incident last month. Hawaii News Now.

Popular Manoa Falls Trail to reopen after rockslide. KHON2.

Project Talent seeks clues to aging well by tracking former Hawaii teens now in their 70s. Star-Advertiser.

Public paychecks: What does a city mayor earn? Here's how Mayor Kirk Caldwell stacks up against 56 major city mayors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Since March 2013, 23 inmates were mistakenly released from Hawaii jails and prisons with 16 — more than two-thirds — released from Hawaii Community Correctional Center. Tribune-Herald.

Two county programs to remove abandoned vehicles are being declared a success, with 331 junk cars either removed or being scheduled to be removed so far. West Hawaii Today.

Fee increases and rule changes are being proposed for many uses of state small boat harbors and facilities. The Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation is seeking approval from the state Land Board this Friday in Honolulu to initiate the rule-making process and hold public hearings on its proposal. Tribune-Herald.

The National Park Service will fully reopen Mauna Loa Road to vehicles on Mon., Oct. 8, along with Mauna Loa Trail, the 13,677-foot summit and both high-altitude cabins. Big Island Video News.

Gecko inundates people with phone calls at Kailua-Kona animal hospital. KHON2.

Maui

Bridge project is delayed. Controversial plan that drew resident criticism could now take years. Maui News.

Maui’s second large-scale photovoltaic solar project came online last week in Lahaina. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Electric Company’s second large-scale photovoltaic solar project came online this week on Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018. Maui Now.

New Disinfection Method for Maui Water Treatment. Maui Now.


Kauai

In little over a month, Kauai voters will head to the polls to vote on a new mayor, a new County Council, several charter amendments and two state constitutional amendments. Garden Island.

Businesses and individuals affected by April’s flooding may be eligible for free employment relief through a U.S. Department of Labor Disaster Dislocated Worker Grant. Garden Island.

Lanai

High-tech hydroponic kitchen planned on Lanai. Facility is a part of Larry Ellison’s indoor agricultural venture. Maui News.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Hirono says spreading cancer won't keep her from her post, Ige seeks Airbnb tax deal, steep hikes in local Obamacare premiums, F-35A stealth aircraft flying through, disaster declared in Maui drought, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono courtesy image
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, who was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer and had a kidney removed in May, announced Tuesday that she has “some small spots in my thyroid gland.” Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Mazie Hirono has a video update on her fight against cancer. KITV.

Gov. David Ige’s administration is pursuing a private tax agreement with Airbnb Inc. that would allow the vacation rental company to collect taxes from its hosts and send the money to the state. Star-Advertiser.

The proverbial “tip of the spear” is about to get sharper in Asia with 10 of the Air Force’s advanced F-35A stealth aircraft transiting through Hawaii on their way to the first operational deployment for the attack planes to Japan. Star-Advertiser.

HMSA and Kaiser to raise Obamacare rates Jan. 1. The state approved an average 19.8 percent rate hike for Hawaii Medical Service Association and a 24.1 percent increase for Kaiser Permanente’s Obamacare health plans. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian Health Task Force Isn’t Giving Up The Fight. After racing to craft legislation in just five days last session, the group’s members want to continue addressing ethnic health disparities. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Longline Association may join the court battle over foreign fishermen and whether they should be licensed to fish in Hawaii waters despite being barred from stepping on U.S. soil. Star-Advertiser.

Lost-at-sea saga marked by inconsistencies, changing stories. The dramatic story of two Honolulu women who were lost at sea for nearly six months before being rescued by the U.S. Navy played out on front pages and websites worldwide. Associated Press.

A locations assistant on “Hawaii Five-0” sued CBS, alleging an employee harassed her repeatedly for over a year by pursuing unwanted sexual contact and threatening to light her and her desk on fire, among other things. Tribune News Service.

Medical Cannabis vs Prescription Opiate Pain Killers. More than 33,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses last year.  Local medical cannabis proponents say many of these deaths can be prevented. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

It’s Hard To Say Where Homeless People Go After Sweeps. City and state data on their whereabouts is spotty. Advocates say permanent housing is the only true solution. Civil Beat.

Tenants, landlord clash at Kewalo Basin harbor. Two small businesses operating charter boats in Honolulu have been caught up in a dispute with the contractor running a state-owned harbor. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii’s Princess Victoria Kamamalu Building in Downtown Honolulu has re-opened after being vacant for more than a dozen years, following an extensive $27 million renovation that included asbestos abatement. Pacific Business News.

Former charter school director charged with theft. Laara Allbrett, who was the director of Halau Lokahi, was charged Monday with four counts of second-degree theft. KHON2.

The city levies big fines against homeowners — and then waives most of them. For the past eight years, the former owners of a Waikiki property on the corner of Kalaimoku and Kuhio streets have been accruing fines at a rate of $100 per day, for a variety of land use violations. Hawaii News Now.

Owner of Kapolei oil refinery celebrates first anniversary in Hawaii. Island Energy Services LLC, the company that took over the Hawaii-based assets of Chevron Corp., is celebrating its one-year anniversary in the Islands on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Bikeshare Hawaii CEO pleased by growth, says Biki is evolving. Star-Advertiser.

Pali Momi Medical Center on Monday opened its Hawaii Pacific Health Cancer Center, the first of its kind in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Mum’s the word: DWS explains silence on two North Kona deep well failures in October. For at least a couple of days in the heart of October and during the thick of the Ironman World Championship, Hawaii County was down five of its 13 deep wells in North Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Resurfacing project on Waianuenue Avenue to begin Nov. 13. For nine days, Waianuenue Avenue will be reduced to one lane only between Kamehameha Avenue and Kaiulani Street as workers repair the road’s deteriorated surface. Tribune-Herald.

The recently vacated Keaau Village Market will be replaced by a Longs Drugs location, building permits have revealed. Tribune-Herald.

State Senator Lorraine Inouye, State Representative Chris Todd, and Representative Mark Nakashima were featured speakers at Monday’s Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaii general membership meeting. Big Island Video News.

Authorities on the Big Island are cracking down on agricultural theft by attempting to eliminate the market for stolen produce. Associated Press.

Maui

Drought-stricken Maui farmers eligible for federal loans. The United States Department of Agriculture has designated Maui County as a Primary Disaster Area because of the drought that's plagued the Valley Isle and neighboring islands for years. Hawaii News Now.

The US Department of Agriculture has designated Maui County as a primary natural disaster area due to losses and damages caused by a recent drought. Maui Now.

No Additional Fee for “Private” Postpartum Rooms at Maui Hospital. Effective Nov. 1, 2017, Maui Health System we will no longer collect additional fees for private postpartum rooms at the Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui Now.

The Maui News has reversed course and will use carriers for newspaper home delivery after all. It also will retain its Sunday edition after announcing in a front-page publisher’s note to readers Tuesday that it is rescinding its recent decision to use the U.S. Postal Service for home delivery instead of newspaper carriers. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

A program that helps landlords get paid and helps to keep tenants from being evicted has expanded to Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai renters and landlords have a new resource at their fingertips now that the state Judiciary has expanded an aid program for tenants and landlords. Garden Island.

This week, 13 elders from indigenous tribes around the world are gathering on Kauai to hold ceremonies and talk story about the condition of the planet. Garden Island.

Self-resetting rat traps are turning out to be the firepower conservationists needed to help control rat populations on Kauai. Garden Island.

Kuhio Highway near the Hanalei Bridge is closed tonight due to flooding on Kauai, and a shelter at Hanalei Elementary School has been opened. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Federal appeals court panel hears Hawaii's travel ban lawsuit, bill gives Hawaii unions more power, Hawaii insurer benefits from Obamacare battle, homeless count questioned, mumps hits 16-year high, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy NOAA
Albatross at Papahanaumokuakea, courtesy NOAA
The Trump administration’s review process for 29 national monuments, including the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, is sparking some outrage during the public comment period. Civil Beat.

An executive order signed by President Donald Trump directs Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to review 27 national monuments established or expanded by three other presidents since 1996. Associated Press.

An attorney for Hawaii told a federal appeals court Monday that President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban on citizens from six predominantly Muslim countries amounts to establishing Islam as a disfavored religion. Star-Advertiser.

The Trump administration faced tough questioning from a panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the second time in four months as it defended its revised executive order on immigration. A 9th Circuit Court of Appeals panel Monday heard arguments in Hawaii’s lawsuit to block key parts of the executive order restricting travel and immigration from countries. Civil Beat.

Trump confident travel ban is lawful. Associated Press.

Did Hawaii Lawmakers Just Give Public Worker Unions Too Much Power? Government officials fear a bill sitting on Gov. Ige’s desk will strip them of their ability to tell their employees what to do without union interference. Civil Beat.

The state launched a public hearing schedule today to determine the feasibility of growing industrial hemp in Hawai’i. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state has taken $10 million away from a successful energy program -- Hawaii Energy -- to give it to a failing one-- Green Energy Market Securitization. Star-Advertiser.

The Supreme Court has turned away challenges to open primaries in Hawaii and Montana that allow voters to take part in party primary elections regardless of their political affiliations. Star-Advertiser.

Obamacare hasn’t been repealed and replaced yet under the administration of President Donald Trump, but the suspension of an Affordable Care Act fee for insurers greatly benefited the state’s largest health insurer, Hawaii Medical Service Association. Star-Advertiser.

The number of people infected during the current mumps outbreak in Hawaii jumped to 39 Monday with the confirmation of eight new cases on Oahu and another on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawai‘i State Department of Health today confirmed nine additional cases of mumps in Hawai‘i residents, bringing the total number of cases in 2017 to 39. Maui Now.

Kamehameha Schools graduates and teachers are criticizing a list of finalists for a $165,000-a-year trustee position that includes the names of two individuals without any Hawaiian heritage. Hawaii News Now.

Following the bloodiest World War II battle of the Pacific at Okinawa, the United States brought some 3,000 prisoners of war to Hawaii, where they were held in detention camps between July 1945 and December 1946. Early next month those POW days will be formally remembered when a delegation from Okinawa, led by a pair of elderly camp survivors, returns to Hawaii to retrace their steps. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Department of Defense on Monday awarded contracts totaling $129 million to several companies for various medically related administrative and programmatic support services across the country, including Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Looking around the disheveled homeless encampments on Oahu, it’s difficult to reconcile some of the more extraordinary numbers that came out of the latest homeless census last week — specifically, a 29 percent reduction in homelessness in Waikiki and East Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

48 fallen officers remembered during 'Police Week' in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Why even the state’s smallest fix-its are facing big delays. KHON2.

Planned Parenthood said Monday it will open a new location in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

The chimpanzee exhibit at the Honolulu Zoo is closed indefinitely after an ape escaped late Sunday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The Hawaii County Council will get a crack this week at Mayor Harry Kim’s proposed $491.2 million budget and tax increases that go with it. Tribune-Herald.

The budget proposed by Mayor Harry Kim will add seven new positions to county government. West Hawaii Today.

The hydrologist who studied potential impacts that a development in Kahaluu could have to groundwater said Monday that while the proposed timeshare project could slightly decrease the flow rate of groundwater and slightly increase its salinity, it would also lead to a decrease in the level of unwanted nutrients in the water that discharges at the shoreline. West Hawaii Today.

After years of planning and months of delay, the Hawaii Island Meat Cooperative has started processing local meat at its mobile slaughterhouse unit. Tribune-Herald.

A 36-year-old U.S. solider has died during a training incident on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine announced last week that it plans a residency rotation in obstetrics and gynecology via a partnership with Bay Clinic and Hilo Medical Center, which already hosts primary care medical residency. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island landowner and entrepreneur Edmund C. Olson was recognized by the Hawaii Small Business Administration on Monday with a special lifetime award for his work stimulating the state’s economy, protecting the environment and helping train a generation to follow in his footsteps. West Hawaii Today.

The many friends and family of the late State Senator Gilbert Kahele gathered Monday to dedicate “Kahele Point” on the small, oceanfront dock of the Grand Naniloa Hotel on Banyan Drive. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The 39th annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk set a new record for Maui County with events on Maui, Lanai and Molokai bringing in $1,159,053, an increase of $125,670 from last year, the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association announced. Maui News.

Kauai

A recent flurry of activity on social media about illegal goings on in the Kalalau Valley has stirred anti-squatter sentiment on Kauai, and some are calling for a change in the area’s management. Garden Island.

After years of planning and deliberation, Island School’s efforts to reclassify 38.4 acres of land to urban usage could be decided in July. Garden Island.

No evidence tree fungus is here. Garden Island.

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Sunscreen oxybenzone ban advanced to protect coral, 100 attend assisted suicide forum, Hawaii's county workers highest paid, Legislature mulls Affordable Care Act, Honolulu mayor pushes for general excise tax surcharge, spectacular lava poses danger to onlookers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii coral © 2017 All Hawaii News
A proposed ban on sunscreen products containing oxybenzone, which includes most of the sun protection items currently on store shelves, was approved by the House Energy and Environmental Protection Committee on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

The House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection on Tuesday advanced a bill that would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing the chemical oxybenzone. Garden Island.

The House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection today advanced House Bill 600, introduced by Representative Nicole Lowen (District 6, Kailua-Kona, Holualoa), which would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing the chemical oxybenzone. Maui Now.

About 100 people attended a forum on physician-assisted suicide Tuesday in the state Capitol auditorium. Attendees heard details of House Bill 201 (Relating to Aid in Dying), listened to experiences from patients and doctors, and had some of their questions answered about the matter. Star-Advertiser.

Congress is taking steps to repeal part of the 2010 Affordable Care Act commonly referred to as Obamacare.   Hawai’i lawmakers are also advancing legislation to protect residents who might lose their medical coverage. Hawaii Public Radio.

Concerned about the dissolution of the Affordable Care Act, state lawmakers are introducing bills to merge into Hawaii law the consumer protections they consider the best parts of the federal program. Associated Press.

Lawmakers Debate Bills To Make It Easier To Evict People. Housing Committee Chairman Tom Brower says he hasn’t decided about measures to amend the landlord-tenant code. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has decided to personally pay for her trip to Syria, following new stories about her trip sponsor being a backer of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says she will “personally reimburse” all the costs of her recent week-long trip to Syria. Civil Beat.

New data released on Tuesday reveals county workers in Hawaii make the highest average wages in the nation, compared to employees from counties in other states. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Democratic Party is pulling its business from First Hawaiian Bank in support of Dakota pipeline protests. Hawaii Public Radio.

A former Hawaii State Supreme Court associate justice has died. Justice Mario Ramil was sworn in in 1993, and served for nearly a decade. KHON2.

Oahu

If state lawmakers will agree to extend the half-percent excise tax surcharge on Oahu to provide desperately needed funding for the city’s rail project, the city would be willing to share the tax revenues from that surcharge with the state, according to a pitch made Tuesday by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and City Council Chairman Ron Menor. Star-Advertiser.

Funding of police chief’s severance raises dispute: Does the Police Commission have the authority to spend HPD money? Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric announced Tuesday it has revived three major solar projects on Oahu that it terminated last year not long before the company that was supposed to build them filed for bankruptcy. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded a $9.8 million military contract to a joint venture between Hawaii contractors Aulii Construction and Nan Inc., for work at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The developer of a long-planned condominium project at the southern slopes of Punchbowl Crater in Honolulu is moving ahead with its development after filing building permits totaling $22 million. Pacific Business News.

A recent approval to build a seventh condominium tower at Ward Village is now on hold after the project’s developer filed objections to a few conditions imposed by a state agency regulating development in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

A man who got sick with Hepatitis A during last year's outbreak is demanding money from Genki Sushi and the chain's food suppliers, and he isn't alone. Lawyers are embroiled in dozens of cases related to the outbreak, including 3 class-action lawsuits. Hawaii News Now.

Maintenance issues persist in aging dorms at University of Hawaii at Manoa. KHON2.

New details about the investigation into the slaughter of 15 protected Laysan albatrosses at Kaena Point are contained in court documents filed by an attorney for one of the defendants. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The chief of the Hawaii Fire Department and at least two department staff flew to the state Capitol this week to testify in favor of a bill that would add an extra ambulance in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Just months after Hawaii County celebrated an $11.6 million upgrade to Mauna Kea Recreation Area, the county announced Tuesday the park has been closed until further notice. West Hawaii Today.

Scientists discovered they're dealing with not one but two strains of deadly fungus obliterating Ohi'a Lehua trees on the Big Island. KITV.

VIDEO: Spectacular “Lava Hose” Continues Plunge Into Sea. Big Island Video News.

A long, lateral crack in sea cliffs built by Kilauea Volcano has scientists worried about a second collapse into the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Authorities are cracking down on visitors entering an off-limits area inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to get a closer look at the lava spewing into the ocean. National Park Service law enforcement officers have cited 28 people since a large delta collapsed a month ago, forming a fire hose of lava. Hawaii News Now.

Donation brings companion to Kona’s most famous, loneliest donkey. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An empty bunk bed and two mattresses lying side by side on the floor — only steps away from the toilet — is a common sight in Maui Community Correctional Center cells originally designed for two inmates. Maui News.

Chancellor urges Legislature to establish $2.5M financial aid fund. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management announced it is soliciting grant applications/proposals from the public for the use of available funds from the DEM Recycling Grant, Fiscal Year 2018. MauiWatch.

Kauai

Three free workshops on food safety and spoilage are being offered around the island as a part of a statewide effort to promote safe and healthy local food in schools. Garden Island.

Anthony Morita is new community relations sergeant. Garden Island.

Monday, January 16, 2017

Hawaii Legislature prepares for session opening, 300 rally for health care, tourism bureau prefers closed meetings, foreclosure increase bucks national trend, homeless, squatters plague Big Island, candidates set for Kauai electric coop, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Democratic Party of Hawaii
Health-care rally, with U.S. Sen. Schatz, courtesy Hawaii Democratic Party
More than 300 people gathered Sunday at the Hawaii State Capitol for a rally to save the Affordable Care Act. KITV.

The Legislature will gather for its 29th biennial session Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the state Capitol. Among the nagging problems that confront lawmakers are the lack of affordable housing, the condition of congested state highways, and aging facilities such as the Oahu Community Correctional Center that need to be refurbished or replaced. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: The first legislative pass over Gov. David Ige’s $28.5 billion, two-year state budget drew only catcalls. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority, empowered by the Legislature to spend tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to market the islands, is operating behind closed doors at least half the time, according to a three-month review of records by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s tight housing market is the result of a “costly, time-consuming, and politically and economically uncertain” development process and not short-term Airbnb rentals, says a study conducted for the online vacation rental company. West Hawaii Today.

With President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration a week away, Pacific Business News took the temperature of local industries on their expectations of the new administration. Hawaii Public Radio.

Embattled telecommunications provider Sandwich Isles Communications Inc. is disputing findings by the federal government that the company received more than $26 million in overpayments of federal subsidies over 10 years. Star-Advertiser.

Schatz Gets Key Role On Military Panel. Hawaii senator hopeful that new post will bring money to the state. Civil Beat.

Hawaii experienced an increase in foreclosure activity in 2016, contrasting the national trend with foreclosure activity sinking to its lowest level since 2006 according to a report by property database Attom Data Solutions. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

An FBI raid on the Honolulu prosecuting attorney's office is the latest action in a growing corruption scandal involving the chief of police and his prosecutor wife. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Police Commission won’t meet with the City Council about a retirement deal for Police Chief Louis Kealoha, who has agreed to leave the department in the midst of a federal criminal probe but is still negotiating his exit. Civil Beat.

In the first rent increases in years, the city on Feb. 1 will begin raising rates on 10 “affordable” residential properties across Oahu, including those for low-income senior citizens. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilman Ikaika Anderson wants to move quickly on a proposal that would presumably end the idea of developing the Malaekaha­na section of Laie. Star-Advertiser.

A former Honolulu police officer has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. Associated Press.

Hawaii

It’s that time of year again, and Big Island legislators are brimming with new ideas for laws and projects they want to see in their districts. West Hawaii Today.

Harry Kim ordered the removal of a baseball diamond from the Kukuihaele Park redevelopment plan. The facility had the neighborhood sharply divided. Big Island Video News.

Homeless at Old Kona Airport Park say they’ve been told to clear out; but ‘very few places to go’ West Hawaii Today.

New players are starting to emerge in Hawaii Island’s international tourism game, as 2016 saw a noticeable increase in arrivals and expenditures from South Korean and Taiwanese visitors. Tribune-Herald.

A destructive house fire last week underscores the problem of squatters on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Workers from entry level to highly trained professionals are needed for high-paying East Hawaii health care jobs. Tribune-Herald.

An assessment of Hawaii Island’s sandalwood supply is being planned to help state officials improve protection of what remains of the sweet-scented tree. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County’s state legislators will continue to push for a smooth transition for Maui Memorial Medical Center and will remain vigilant in ensuring that long-term projects such as the Kihei high school get the money and support they need. Maui News.

Renters in the Lahaina Front Street Apartments fear they’ll eventually be forced out of their affordable units, due to a loophole in the tax code that would allow the units to be bumped up to market rates by 2019. Maui News.

Wailuku/Kahului was one of five communities statewide chosen to join the Blue Zones Project, a community well-being improvement initiative. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has confirmed seven candidates that will run for three seats during its board of directors election in March. Pacific Business News.

During the first week of January, 17 animals were transferred to the Mainland from Kauai Humane Society as a direct result of the community’s involvement. Garden Island.

For the Surfrider Foundation, which announced its landmark 400th coastal victory over the past decade, consistently moving forward and improving coasts and oceans is the primary goal. Garden Island.

Friday, December 23, 2016

University of Hawaii to gain in Ige budget, Republicans dwindle in state Legislature, low pay, high credit card debt for residents, Honolulu Ethics Commission mulls PAC laws, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy National Geographic
Obama's fish, courtesy National Geographic
Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have named a fish after President Obama. Hawaii Public Radio.

President Barack Obama, his family and some friends are spending the afternoon at a beach at a marine corps base near his Hawaii vacation rental. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige’s call for increased education dollars in his proposed state budget extends to higher education as well with a $44 million boost for operations at the University of Hawaii over the next two years. Star-Advertiser.

There are no more Republicans in the Hawaii state Senate, while the number of members in the House has dwindled to six. Civil Beat.

A Big Day For US-Japan Relations Tuesday At Pearl Harbor. Prime Minister Abe will join President Obama to honor Americans killed in Japan’s surprise attack on Oahu in 1941. Civil Beat.

Despite threats of an Obamacare repeal, 11,750 Hawaii residents signed up this year to renew or buy for the first time health insurance through the federal exchange, HealthCare.gov, for coverage starting on New Year’s Day. Star-Advertiser.

By some measures, employment is booming in Hawaii and the rest of the country. But the shortage of good-paying jobs — the kind where wages are high enough to afford a decent standard of living — is attracting top-level political attention in both Honolulu and the nation’s capital. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the eighth-highest credit card debt in the nation, with customers owing an average $5,966, according to a new report by CreditCards.com. Star-Advertiser.

A former state representative has died. Mark Moses represented the Makakilo and Kapolei communities from 1996-2006. KHON2.

Oahu

Opening day for the state Legislature is still weeks away, but there's already a proposal to extend the .5 percent rail tax surcharge. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Ethics Commission considered a request today to curb the unfair influence of Super PACs. Hawaii Public Radio.

Acting Honolulu Police Chief Cary Okimoto may face uncomfortable questions come January as he attempts to explain to police commissioners his proximity to a growing scandal involving a missing mailbox. Civil Beat.

City prosecutor explains why he wants chief’s wife to stay on the job. KHON2.

Honolulu police are reporting a big drop in speeding tickets so far this year. Hawaii News Now.

A medical marijuana dispensary with ties to Hawaii businessman Colbert Matsumoto is opening in the former Bank of Hawaii branch on Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu, Pacific Business News has learned.

For years, families have been laying small plaques in the rocks at Pokai Bay to remember loved ones who've passed on. But state law says it's illegal to install these on any heiau without written permission. KITV.

Hawaii

More than three weeks after the first bout of winter weather hit Hawaii Island, the Mauna Kea Summit Access Road is still closed to the public. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The developer of the Pulelehua working-class community in West Maui and owner of the Maalaea Harbor Shops & Restaurants says he was exonerated in fraud case. Maui News.

The Maui Ocean Center is hosting a contest to seek help from the public in naming six baby sea turtles. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Department of Parks and Recreation officials are reminding the public that the deadline to provide input on the draft preferred master plan for Black Pot Beach Park is Saturday, Dec. 31. Garden Island.

Friday, October 7, 2016

Marine Corps plans Osprey training on Kauai, state Supreme Court approves Maui telescope, Red Hill fuel spill meeting draws concerned crowd, union calls for ouster of Honolulu fire chief, huge jury pool summoned for Kenoi trial, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A U.S. Marine MV-22 landing on flight deck of aircraft carrier Nimitz, public domain photo
So quietly it almost went unnoticed, the Marine Corps has floated a plan to conduct training with three types of aircraft, including one critics say is prone to crashes, on Kauai and The Forbidden Island. Civil Beat.

An estimated 41,000 Hawaii residents will see a substantial jump in their Obamacare health insurance premiums in 2017. Star-Advertiser.

This Group Is Looking For Better Ways Hawaii Can Limit Painkillers. Once a leader, Hawaii has fallen behind on ways to identify doctors who overprescribe as well as patients who shop around for opioid pain pills. Civil Beat.

The deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 8 general election is Oct. 10 — that’s Monday by 4:30 p.m. (Note: Effective this year, qualified Hawaii residents who are not registered may go in-person to any early walk in voting location within their county to register and vote. That’s Oct. 25 through Nov. 5.) Civil Beat.

Securing a future for Hawai’i’s keiki. That was the focus of a conference on emerging technologies today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu
Nearly three years after one of the Navy’s massive underground fuel tanks at Red Hill leaked 27,000 gallons of fuel, the military has yet to clean up the spill or commit to long-term remedies for improving the 18 active World War II-era tanks that sit just 100 feet above a critical aquifer that supplies Oahu drinking water. Star-Advertiser.

The Environmental Protection Agency says millions of gallons of fuel stored in a military facility under Red Hill is unlikely to reach the water supply. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens filled the Moanalua Middle School cafeteria Thursday evening for a public meeting on the US Navy's fuel tank facility at Red Hill. KITV.

The union for Honolulu firefighters is calling for Fire Chief Manuel Neves to step down following recent safety concerns. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu’s mayor is calling on the Honolulu Fire Commission to ask for a review of the fire department’s training and safety procedures in the wake of two accidents in the past few months. KHON2.

The state Agribusiness Development Corp. has received $31.5 million to buy nearly 900 acres of agricultural land in Central Oahu to be used as part of the Whitmore farming project in the area, Pacific Business News has learned.

Kakaako Waterfront Park's temporary shorter hours took effect Thursday night. But dozens of park users were unaware of the early closure because of the short notice, and officials took it easy on enforcement as a result. Hawaii News Now.

Incumbent state Rep. Bob McDermott and the Democratic challenger Rose Martinez share the same desire to ease traffic gridlock, relieve overcrowding at Campbell High School and find upgrades to all of the schools in Ewa Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii first lady Vicky Cayetano’s United Laundry Services, which a few months ago joined Las Vegas’ PureStar Linen Group, has sold its properties for a total of $44.5 million, Pacific Business News has learned.

Hawaii

Summons have been sent to 1,600 potential jurors for Mayor Billy Kenoi’s theft trial, which is scheduled to start Monday in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Over the objections of some local businesses, the County Council on Wednesday advanced a bill closing the parking lot between Kuakini Highway and Likana Lane from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. West Hawaii Today.

Now in its second year, Ka‘u Learning Academy is readying for a growth spurt. West Hawaii Today.

Cory Harden called the Puna geothermal power plant a "dragon in the backyard that can wake up at any time," following recent steam releases at the Pohoiki facility. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Hawaii Supreme Court handed down two opinions Thursday that upheld government approvals for the advanced-technology solar telescope under construction at the summit of Haleakala. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Supreme Court on Thursday affirmed a permit to build a solar telescope on a Maui mountain. The ruling denies a challenge by a group seeking to protect the sacredness of the summit of Haleakala. The University of Hawaii followed proper procedure for an environmental assessment, the Supreme Court also ruled in a separate ruling. Associated Press.

President Obama issued a major disaster declaration for Hawaiʻi on Thursday, which triggers the release of federal funds to help communities recover from the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that occurred Sept. 11-14, 2016. Maui Now.

Heavy rains and flooding in September caused no more than an estimated $1 million in damage to  Maui County’s water system, and about 3 million gallons of water per day continues to be lost as crews continue repairs. Maui News.

Proceedings before the state water commission involving stream flow standards and diversions in East Maui and Central Maui, which will be impacted by the closure of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co., are expected to commence at the end of this year and into early 2017. Maui News.

Kauai

Hawaii has been dubbed the endangered species capital of the world, and the state’s Department of Agriculture is partnering with other agencies to create a plan to protect the biodiversity of the archipelago. Garden Island.

Thursday, December 31, 2015

Hawaii 2015 in review, albatrosses killed on Oahu, minimum wage rises, audit blasts state Obamacare system, graphic signs spur Hilo outrage, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Black-footed Albatross with chick, Midway Atoll NWR Pic:Wieteke Holthuijzen  USGS
Three of the top local news stories in Hawaii in 2015 sprang from situations that few observers anticipated would lead to major headlines — building the Thirty Meter Telescope, dodging the bullet in a record hurricane season, and public outcry over hot classrooms. Star-Advertiser.

With presidential vacations as bookends, the year in the islands featured David Ige’s shakedown cruise, the still-unfolding TMT-Mauna Kea controversy and new attempts to solve the old problem of homelessness. Civil Beat.

2015: The year in review; Telescope controversy, Kenoi’s pCard abuse, dengue fever among top stories of the year. Tribune-Herald.

Top stories of 2015. From barking dogs, bleached coral new stores, and the Aloha Doc, the Garden Island saw its share of news. Garden Island.

Coming with the new year is a hike of 75 cents in our state’s minimum wage. Hawaii is one of 14 states where workers will now see more in their paychecks. Hawaii’s hourly wage will be $8.50. Civil Beat.

Poor planning and a “lack of effective leadership” within the state Department of Human Services prevented its $155 million computer system from meeting some of the objectives of the federal Affordable Care Act, according to a new report by the Hawaii state auditor. Star-Advertiser.

In a report released Wednesday, the state auditor faulted Hawaii’s Department of Human Services in failing to implement the state’s online system for the Affordable Care Act known as Obamacare. Civil Beat.

Honolulu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii counties stand to receive millions more in funding next year from the state's transient accommodations tax if the Legislature approves a working group’s report released this week. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. military, with a lot of smokers, is toeing the line on Hawaii’s new ban on cigarettes and tobacco for anyone under 21, which takes effect Friday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education has received special recognition by the national U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation 2015 Leaders & Laggards report listed the Aloha State for its progress as measured by the National Assessment of Education Progress. Civil Beat.

The following fireworks shows will take place throughout the state to usher in the new year. KHON2.

Oahu
Three Laysan albatrosses were killed, several others are missing, and 15 nests were destroyed at the Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve, state conservation enforcement officials said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

State and federal officials are investigating the deaths of three Laysan albatrosses and the destruction of at least 15 albatross nests at Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve. Hawaii News Now.

Next year's November ballot will not include questions about dismantling the rail authority, labeling GMO products or raising the minimum wage. The Honolulu Charter Commission denied all those proposals at a hearing on Wednesday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

El Nino put a damper on Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s road repaving plans, but the crews have continued their work despite the challenges. KITV4.

The deaf and visually impaired will have an opportunity to experience Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Saturday at Ward Theatres, marking the first movie showing to provide such accommodations as required under a new Hawaii law. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Telcom and Raycom Media, owner of Hawaii News Now, have agreed to extend their current contract,, eliminating a potential blackout through Jan. 8. Star-Advertiser.

Area residents maintain that Lanikai’s popularity has soared since TripAdvisor dubbed its beach the world’s best a few years ago. Also, a coastal science professor known as Dr. Beach, who ranks public beaches in the United States — based on best sand and water quality, environmental management and amenities — and others have spotlighted Lanikai as a top beach. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama spent much of Wednesday afternoon, the 12th day of his Hawaiian vacation, with family and friends at a luau hosted by a childhood friend and golf buddy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
Eight new confirmed cases of dengue fever were added Wednesday to Hawaii Island’s running tally, which now stands at 190. Meanwhile, the state Department of Health’s Big Island Vector Control offices in Hilo and Kona, which are responsible for controlling the populations of mosquitoes that carry the disease, are preparing to hire one additional worker each, with an online listing for the jobs set to close today. Tribune-Herald.

Police were called in Wednesday morning when counter-protesters physically removed signs they find offensive in a Downtown Hilo park that has a playground for small children. Tribune-Herald.

A disagreement over a notorious collection of signs at a county park in Hilo led to a temporary upheaval on Wednesday, as opposing viewpoints clashed on the sidewalk beside Lincoln Park. Big Island Video News.

Maui

November arrivals to Maui increased 2.8% to 193,355 and visitor days increased by 3.8% in November 2015, compared to last year. Maui Now.

Maui island is on a record-breaking pace to push beyond a total of 2.5 million visitor arrivals by air this year. Maui News.

Kauai

The number of travelers to Kauai went up by 0.8 percent as compared to this time last year, according to a Tuesday news release from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

Monday, December 28, 2015

Hawaii smoking age to be highest in nation, Ige signs second homeless proclamation, press following Obama on Oahu, Kauai police begin wearing body cameras, state plans condo closures on Hilo's Banyan Drive, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Overflowing ashtray in Waikiki beach park
Hawaii will become the first state in the country to raise the smoking age to 21 from 18 in January. Star-Advertiser.

On Thursday Gov. David Ige signed a second supplemental proclamation that the administration said will allow the state to continue coordinated efforts with the counties to provide emergency shelter, long-term housing and services “to those without homes.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has extended the state’s emergency proclamation on homelessness by 60 days, which will allow for continued coordination on social service and housing efforts, his office said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

The federal government is allowing more time for a group of migrants in Hawaii to enroll in health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act. Associated Press.

Overall, the statewide average hotel occupancy rate was 77.2 percent, up 6.7 percentage points, while the average room rate rose 1.7 percent to $229.37 a night. Pacific Business News.

Maui County and Oahu are outpacing the rest of the state in getting residents behind the wheels of electric vehicles, according to an annual report issued this month by the Hawaii State Energy Office. Maui News.

Oahu

In keeping with their holiday tradition, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama paid a visit to the U.S. Marine Corps Base in Kaneohe Bay on Christmas Day to express the nation’s gratitude to service members. Civil Beat.

After the First Family spent the morning at their Kailua vacation home opening Christmas gifts and singing carols, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama made their annual visit to the cafeteria of Marine Corps Base Hawaii at Kaneohe Bay Friday afternoon to briefly speak to troop members and their families. KHON2.

After several days of rainy weather, Sunday provided just enough sunshine for President Barack Obama and family to strike the most visible presence of their Christmas holiday in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama may be one of the most powerful men in the world but he admits to feeling "small" when working out alongside Marines at their gym on base in Hawaii. Associated Press.

As President Barack Obama and the first family criss-cross the Hawaiian island of Oahu for their annual holiday vacation, the White House reporters tasked with following Obama and his entourage, known as the pool, are documenting his every move. Sometimes things get a little weird. Politico.

Greg Jaffe, a Washington Post reporter who is part of the White House press pool during the Obama family vacation, has co-authored a piece titled Hawaii can’t seem to name anything after native son Obama. Civil Beat.

An outpouring of concern and support for nearly 260 homeless people living near the Waianae Boat Harbor encourages Twinkle Borge to work even harder for those who call the area home. A leader in the encampment situated on about 19 acres of preservation-zoned state land between Waianae High School and the boat harbor, Borge is looking into forming a nonprofit to help generate funding for her “houseless” community known as Puuhonua O Waianae Village. Star-Advertiser.

A new way of registering students for classes and tracking their progress at the University of Hawaii Manoa could help students graduate faster and possibly save families and taxpayers millions of dollars, administrators say. Civil Beat.

The Hawaiian Humane Society is once again taking on a larger share of the city’s animal care and control services on Oahu thanks to an $800,000 boost by the City Council and a new agreement between the nonprofit and the Caldwell administration. Star-Advertiser.

According to numbers from the Honolulu Fire Department more people are buying fireworks permits. KHON2.

Hawaii

Expiration of land leases on Banyan Drive and in the Kanoelehua Industrial Area is prompting the state to look at changing the way it manages the rental agreements and possibly consolidating properties. Tribune-Herald.

Most of the time, Cliff Kopp is a Kailua-Kona dentist. But come Christmas, he’ll be homeless, at least temporarily. West Hawaii Today.

The Thirty Meter Telescope project — thwarted by the one-two punch of protesters blocking construction and the Hawaii Supreme Court invalidating its permit — lost more than $1.76 million this year while its grading equipment sat idle atop Mauna Kea.Star-Advertiser.

No safety check? No insurance? No license plate? No problem. That’s according to a group of Big Island residents who think they have a constitutional right to travel without state and federally imposed licensing, registration and safety checks. West Hawaii Today.

The future of Hawaii Island meat is parked in Waimea. The state’s first producer-owned mobile slaughterhouse arrived in October, and will provide a means for small-scale ranchers and farmers to access local retail markets when it opens for business. Tribune-Herald.

The banana bunchy top virus, a plant disease that stunts the growth of banana plants and deforms their fruit has been found north of Hilo, where farmers worry it could find its way into the deep gulches of the Hamakua Coast, making containment a more difficult task. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


The state Department of Transportation has issued a finding of "no significant impact" for its plans to construct the next phase of the Lahaina bypass project. Maui News.

With the blessing of generous donations, Kaahumanu Church’s steeple has been patched, and the roof of the church’s preschool building has been replaced, said Kahu Wayne Higa. Maui News.

The next Maui Energy Conference + Exhibition will tackle the issue of whether Hawaii's 100 percent renewable energy target is realistic and whether utilities are on board, according to a draft program for the conference scheduled for March 16 to 18 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai police officers are the first in the state wearing body cameras as a dispute lingers over whether the union should have gotten final say on the policy. Associated Press.

In a room police use for briefings, Kauai Police Department Officer Troy Sakaguchi was showing seven patrol officers how to use their brand-new body-worn cameras. Garden Island.