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

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Hawaii on the Hill mixes promotion with politics, super PAC stirs up lt. gov. race, Ige signs pesticide bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Brian Schatz
Hawaii on the Hill PC:U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz
UPDATE: This entry has been edited to remove references to an article about gems being produced by Kilauea Volcano after debunking Thursday by scientists.

National Politics Percolate At ‘Hawaii On The Hill’ Event In DC. It’s not all about poke bowls and Spam musubi. The annual Chamber of Commerce event gives some island leaders a firsthand look at national issues. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Congressional delegation joined local government officials, small business owners, and educators at the 5th annual Hawaii on the Hill events on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Unite Here Local 5, which represents about 11,000 Hawaii hospitality, health and food service workers, endorsed Kim Coco Iwamoto for lieutenant governor on Wednesday.  Star-Advertiser.

Super PAC Dumps A Quarter-Million Dollars Into LG Race. The pro-rail carpenters union is backing state Sen. Josh Green, but one political analyst questions whether it’s payback against another candidate. Civil Beat.

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The state of Hawaii is banning a pesticide scientists have found could hinder the development of children’s brains. Associated Press.

Hawaii became the first state in the country to ban pesticides containing chlorpyrifos, a chemical that has been linked to disruptions in the brain development of babies and young children, with Gov. David Ige signing the measure into law on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige signed SB3095 Wednesday, which bans the use of pesticides containing the potentially harmful chemical chlorpyrifos starting in 2023. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii became the first state in the nation to ban chlorpyrifos with the Wednesday signing of SB3095 by Gov. David Ige. Garden Island.

Hawaii Becomes First State to Ban Neurotoxin, Chlorpyrifos. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor David Ige signed a law Wednesday, banning the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos. KITV.

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Gov. Ige Asks FEMA to Reconsider Request for Kauai & Oahu. Big Island Now.

Gov. David Ige is asking the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reconsider its initial denial of the state’s request for individual assistance for Kauai and Oahu residents affected by April’s severe storms and flooding. Garden Island.

The Hawaiian Electric Cos. have filed their Electrification of Transportation Strategic Roadmap (“EoT Roadmap”) with the state Public Utilities Commission. Star-Advertiser.

The mayors of Hawaii’s four counties are pushing ahead in their pursuit of electrifying the state’s transportation sector by signing a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday to formally join Drive Electric Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Pasha Hawaii receives 600 new refrigerated containers as part of expanded Hawaii service. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Blood Bank Paying A High Price In Its Dispute With Honolulu Rail Officials. The nonprofit wants to abandon its headquarters long before trains start rumbling nearby. But the city is offering to buy only a strip of landscaping. Civil Beat.

More frustration for Oahu residents trying to renew their driver's licenses. KHON2.

The state is investigating a case of Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially deadly form of pneumonia caused by a bacterial infection. Star-Advertiser.

Six isolated cases of Legionnaires' disease confirmed in Hawaii this year. KHON2.

The state Department of Health announced on Wednesday that they are investigating a new case of legionellosis on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Union hopes nonprofit, trust fund will help its members buy homes. Star-Advertiser.

Longtime leader of St. Francis School ousted. Sister Joan of Arc Souza, who led St. Francis School in Manoa for 27 of its 94 years as its head of school and principal, was no longer employed at the school as of Monday. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu-based hotel company has sold six of its Asia-Pacific properties to a Thai-based property development and investment holding company for $310 million. Associated Press.

Solar permits issued on Oahu rose 42 percent in May to mark the fifth straight month of increases. Star-Advertiser.

‘The Last Wild Place’ Wins National Honors. Civil Beat took readers on a visual journey through one of the most remote parts of the planet. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ige seeks assistance from federal programs. Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that Hawaii County estimates lava has destroyed approximately 455 dwellings in Leilani Estates, Lanipuna Gardens, Vacationland and Kapoho Beach Lots, of which 192 are primary residences. Many other homes throughout Puna have been cut off by lava or are uninhabitable due to poor air quality from volcanic gases. Star-Advertiser.

Federal aid for people affected by the Kilauea eruption might be approved soon after Gov. David Ige signed a request for such assistance Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii governor asks FEMA to OK individual assistance for lava claims. State agencies, the county government and nonprofit organizations have been providing assistance to individuals so far; the state has no individual assistance programs, the governor’s office said. Pacific Business News.

County hoping Disaster Assistance Center can open by weekend. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim is hoping to have a conceptual plan for a Kaikoo-style redevelopment project to help those displaced by the Kilauea eruption drafted within a month. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii mayor wants to relocate those displaced outside zones one or two. KITV.

Website aims to provide displaced lava evacuees with housing. KITV.

The incredible scope of the Big Island eruptions, a disaster with no end in sight. Hawaii News Now.

Farmers among hardest hit by eruptions with losses of more than $14M. Hawaii News Now.

Overflight Video: Rivers of Lava. Big Island Now.

VIDEO: Drone Captures Dramatic Drop At Kilauea Summit. Big Island Video News.

The National Weather Service reported Wednesday that light winds will bring vog inland and to the south, wrapping around to the Kona area. West Hawaii Today.

Distant Eruption Has Major Impact On Kona-Kohala Coast. West side residents and businesses are dealing with vog and a downturn in business, including some people cancelling their visits. Civil Beat.

Relief greets Pride of America’s return to Hawaii Island ports. West Hawaii Today.

Hundreds of animals among lava refugees. The humanitarian crisis in its sixth week on Hawaii island, forcing more than 400 people into shelters and away from erupting lava, also has taken a toll on animals in the area. Star-Advertiser.


Maui

Maui Renters Need to Work 123 Hours a Week to Afford 2-Bedroom Apartment. Maui Now.

DLNR Seeking Comments on Draft EIS for Business Park. The 280-acre DLNR Industrial and Business Park is located along Maui Veterans Highway (formerly known as Mokulele Highway) adjacent to the Hawaii National Guard Armory and the County Raceway Park in Central Maui, in the vicinity of the former Naval Air Station Puunene and Maui Humane Society. Maui Now.

Kauai

In the wake of the Kauai floods and volcanic activity on Hawaii Island, Kahuku Medical Center has raised $15,000 for the American Red Cross of Hawaii to support disaster relief efforts and those affected by recent natural disasters. Garden Island.

The southbound lane of Kuhio Highway between Nuku Street and Kapaia Road will be closed from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. beginning Wednesday, June 20, and Thursday, June 21. The closure is necessary to allow the Wastewater Management Division to continue a sewer main repair in the area. Garden Island.

Monday, April 17, 2017

Hawaii poll mixed on Trump immigration enforcement, Tulsi Gabbard says Hawaii in North Korea 'crosshairs,' Oahu poll shows airport authority opposition, resistance to pay more for rail, Green mulls lieutenant governor post, Kauai police chief seeks Honolulu job, Maui mayoral candidate in car crash, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Gannatd congressional office
U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard in Windward Oahu, courtesy Gabbard congressional office
U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard faced a rowdy crowd in Kailua on Saturday night for one of seven town hall meetings that she’s holding throughout the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard Focuses On North Korea Amid Questions About Syria. At her most contentious of three town hall meetings so far, the congresswoman tells her Kailua audience that Hawaii is in the “crosshairs.” Civil Beat.

Despite assertions of widespread consensus, Hawaii appears to be divided over whether the state should be spending money challenging President Donald Trump’s revised ban on travel to the United States by individuals from certain countries. Star-Advertiser.

Should Hawaii Defy Trump On Immigration Enforcement? Lawmakers are debating whether Hawaii should join communities balking at cooperating with the crackdown on criminal immigrants. Civil Beat.

The chairmen of Hawaii’s House and Senate tourism committees expect to meet in the upcoming week to resolve differences over vacation rental tax bills that have passed their respective chambers. Associated Press.

When compared with four international vacation destinations, Hawaii hotels were more expensive and less occupied during the month of March. Pacific Business News.

State lawmakers are hoping to alleviate the cost of college for some students with House Bill 1594. The proposed legislation would set up a new scholarship program called "Hawaii Promise." KITV.

State Sen. Josh Green has already laid out an ambitious project he’d take on as lieutenant governor. The only thing he hasn’t quite done yet is announce he’s running. West Hawaii Today.

The Fight Over Papahanaumokuakea Just Escalated. It’s not just Wespac that’s lobbying President Trump to undo marine monument protections in the Pacific. Civil Beat.

The solar industry continues to contract on the neighbor islands. Star-Advertiser.

Four Marine Corps Ospreys are expected to fly nearly 6,000 miles from Hawaii to Australia this week, refueling in midair and stopping a couple of times — while demonstrating again the long range, speed and versatility of the unique tilt-rotor aircraft, the Corps said. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The latest Hawaii Poll by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser suggests a majority of likely Oahu voters want the city’s rail project to reach Ala Moana Center but are reluctant to pay more taxes to do so. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents are not particularly pleased with the condition of Honolulu International Airport, but a majority of them oppose the plan to create a new airport authority to try to better manage and maintain the state’s airport system. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents generally think homeowners should be able to rent part or all of their homes to visitors, but results of the latest Hawaii Poll were evenly split on whether online travel booking sites like Airbnb should collect taxes for clients. Star-Advertiser.

A bill introduced by two Honolulu City Council members would eliminate the city’s controversial Residential A tax category. Star-Advertiser.

A deadline has passed, but Gov. David Ige still could fill two upcoming vacancies on a state board regulating development in Kakaako using a controversial list of candidates from the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gas Co. said recently it expects to act on plans to integrate biogas from the city’s Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plant into its pipeline. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Education will receive a $70 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense’s Office of Economic Adjustment to make major improvements to Solomon Elementary School at Schofield Barracks in Central Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Many beachgoers in Lanikai returned to their vehicles on Easter Sunday with tickets left on their windshields. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Rail-financing controversy sure to take politicians’ futures for a ride. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: As the Legislature nears its crunch, key lawmakers are showing signs they finally mean what they say about holding Honolulu rail accountable for incessant mismanagement and budget deficits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Tests find no depleted uranium threat: But critics file petitions challenging Pohakuloa Training Area radiation monitoring. Tribune-Herald.

Major Kahaluu development draws concerns. West Hawaii Today.

A Hilo-based aerospace agency is on the chopping block as lawmakers sort out the state’s budget. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County collaborators are working on several fronts — making sure at least half of all police patrol vehicles per shift carry an automated external defibrillator, or AED, which can shock a heart back into normal rhythm — and teaching high school students hands-only CPR. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Merrie Monarch Festival Begins In Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Merrie Monarch Festival schedule. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa took 34 county-funded trips costing about $33,800 in 2016. Maui News.

A $28 million Maui estate that hosted celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Prince and Mel Gibson has been listed by Hawaii Life. Pacific Business News.

The median price of a single-family home in Maui County soared to $769,000 in March, the highest monthly benchmark in more than a decade, the Realtors Association of Maui reported this week. Maui News.

Former Maui County Councilman and mayoral candidate Mike Victorino was involved in a collision Thursday night in Kahului that sent two teenagers to the hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries. Garden Island.

Lettuce and kale sales have dipped in recent weeks in response to an unusual number of rat lungworm cases on Maui that have left many visitors and residents questioning where produce is grown. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry wants to return to Oahu to run a department that he believes is in need of competent leadership after years of scandal. Civil Beat.

The federal government and the state have taken a step back on the regulation of the restricted-use pesticide chlorpyrifos, but activists on Kauai aren’t giving up. Garden Island.

Vehicles are now using the new steel bridge over Keahua Stream on “Loop Road” — and a few people have found it creates an advantage for them. Garden Island.

The state’s planned 4-foot-wide aluminum pedestrian bridge over Hanakapiai Stream on Kauai’s North Shore is up for discussion — a community meeting will be held Tuesday in Hanalei. Garden Island.

A young green sea turtle was reportedly attacked and injured by a man Thursday at Nawiliwili Harbor. Garden Island.

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Money sought for roads, mileage tax mulled, state computers probed 45M times a day, death with dignity legislation, Green mulls gubernatorial run, Attorney General clears homeless map, Hawaii park downsized, Maui workers charged with vacation theft, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii roadway © 2017 All Hawaii News
Hawaii Department of Transportation officials told state lawmakers Wednesday that they need dozens of new positions and millions of additional dollars to continue with plans to modernize airports, repair harbors and maintain roads. Civil Beat.

As laws mandate more fuel efficient cars and trucks, state transportation officials said they have to either double the gas tax, or find some a more fair way to charge users. KITV.

The top manager of state government computer systems in Hawaii says would-be hackers are probing the defenses of state networks up to 45 million times a day in an effort to find vulnerabilities in the system. Star-Advertiser.

With two years left in his Senate term, Josh Green is considering running for governor or lieutenant governor in 2018. West Hawaii Today.

Pierre Omidyar, LinkedIn co-founder ​Reid Hoffman put $10M each into new fund for ethical artificial intelligence. Pacific Business News.

Longtime state political lobbyist John Radcliffe has stage four liver and colon cancer and wants to choose when he dies. Radcliffe, 74, is asking the court to declare that Hawaii’s murder and manslaughter laws do not apply when a physician helps a mentally-competent, terminally-ill adult patient who chooses to die. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers in Hawaii and several other states want to prevent presidential candidates from appearing on their states’ ballots unless the candidates release their tax returns. Associated Press.

Incensed that President-elect Donald Trump still won’t make public his tax returns, state Rep. Chris Lee is trying to do something about it. Civil Beat.

As the state Department of Education continues to reduce its backlog of employee misconduct cases, some Board of Education members are questioning whether the department is doing enough to prevent cases in the first place. Star-Advertiser.

The Governor’s top budget priority for this upcoming legislative session is Public Education. But will his increased spending really make a difference? Hawaii Public Radio.

Seniors in Hawaii face a greater risk of being struck and killed by a car than in any other state in the nation — a nagging fact that hasn’t changed much in the last decade, according to a report released this week by the National Complete Streets Coalition. Star-Advertiser.

How Hawaii’s Inmates Are Ending Up In Prisons All Over The Country. But, citing privacy and security reasons, state prison officials won’t say why ‌imates are being transferred or where they have gone. Civil Beat.

Oahu
The state Attorney General’s office told state Rep. Gene Ward that a map he published in November of suspected homeless encampments and homeless activity in his East Honolulu district passes legal muster and is constitutional. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Wednesday said he doubts a final agreement has been reached yet between the Police Commission and Police Chief Louis Kealoha over a possible payout to the chief in exchange for his retirement. Civil Beat.

As out of state law enforcement agencies prepare to make the trip to Hawaii and begin their recruiting trip, the Honolulu Police Department is searching for applicants of its own. KHON2.

A traffic pattern change due to the city's rail project in Pearl City is not sitting well with a longtime business there. Hawaii News Now.

The city wants to sell a portion of a popular park in Windward Oahu. However, the proposal is facing backlash from some community members in Kahaluu. Hawaii News Now.

Sewage spills are likely to continue in West Kapolei near Ko Olina until corroded pipes are replaced at an estimated cost of $20 million, a Honolulu City Council committee was told Wednesday. Civil Beat.

A third finalist for the University of Hawaii at Manoa chancellor position will be participating in a final round of interviews this month, UH officials announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: STEM Jobs? Not In Honolulu. Nationally, we rank close to the bottom when it comes to professions involving science, technology, engineering and math. Civil Beat.

Ho‘ola Na Pua event provides insight into human trafficking. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

After more than a year of neighborhood contention regarding construction of a park in Kukuihaele, county planners presented a new and largely well-received proposal for the 4-acre space Tuesday night. Tribune-Herald.

The number of solar electric permits issued on the Big Island dropped 56 percent compared with the year earlier. Star-Advertiser.

A long-awaited four-year aviation program could take off this year at University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Legacy nursing home in Hilo hired a former state Department of Health nursing home compliance director to get Legacy back in line with federal regulations. Tribune-Herald.

As big of a challenge combating human trafficking is in Hawaii, convincing people it even happens here in the first place is a whole other one. West Hawaii Today.

West Hawaii joins the previous selections of East Hawaii and North Hawaii as Blue Zones, making Hawaii County the first entire county in the nation to join the movement. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Two former Maui County Public Works employees pleaded not guilty Wednesday to second-degree theft charges involving unrecorded vacation time, according to sources familiar with the case. Maui News.

The Maui County Council will hold a special meeting on Monday to handle matters left over from its Jan. 2 meeting, including establishing the body’s standing committees and referring various matters to appropriate committees. Maui News.

Kauai

Getting a fair share of the transient accommodations tax, making sure lifeguards are insured and purchasing an additional ambulance are some of the goals for Kauai County this legislative session. Garden Island.

Friday, May 27, 2016

Average hurricane season expected, Hanabusa pulls nomination papers for Congress, DOT superintendent fined $3k for using state workers and equipment, nonprofits get more from state budget, Maui software company goes bust, Green dinged on financial disclosure error, rental costs increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Wikipedia photo public domain
Damage from Hurricane Iniki in 1992, public domain photo
Central Pacific Hurricane Center forecasters Thursday said to expect anywhere from an average to an above-average hurricane season, with an outlook that calls for an equal 40 percent chance of either a normal or above-normal season and a 20 percent chance of a below-normal season. Star-Advertiser.

After a record-setting hurricane season fueled by a strong El Nino in 2015, federal forecasters said Thursday the 2016 central Pacific hurricane season will likely be only slightly above average as La Nina conditions take over. Associated Press.

In the wake of a record-setting hurricane season fueled by a “Godzilla” El Nino, Central Pacific Hurricane Center forecasters say this season will likely be near or above normal as La Nina conditions take hold. West Hawaii Today.

Weather officials say Hawai‘i will see normal to above normal activity this hurricane season, predicting between four and seven tropical cyclones. Hawaii Public Radio.

Seven tropical cyclones are predicted for the upcoming hurricane season that runs June 1 through Nov. 30. Garden Island.

Will 2016’s hurricane season be as storm-filled as 2015? KHON2.

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Hawaii lawmakers budgeted significantly more state money for nonprofits and community groups this year compared to last, but the process of choosing who got what remains murky. The Legislature approved 104 grants in aid totaling $36.7 million for fiscal 2017, which starts July 1. Lawmakers winnowed this down from 276 applications for $147.6 million. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has begun the process in Hawaii to run for the congressional seat that will be left vacant by U.S. Rep. Mark Takai. The Hawaii Office of Elections said Hanabusa was issued nomination papers on Thursday. That's the first step candidates take when running for office. Associated Press.

More homeless people than ever — 14,954 — sought homeless services across the islands in the 2015 fiscal year, representing an increase of 4.7 percent, according to a study released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s tourism industry continues to break records, as April drew more visitors than any previous April.Star-Advertiser.

Fourteen of Hawaii’s 25 state senators and 14 of the 51 state representatives did not hold fundraisers during the 2016 session. Civil Beat.

Students with head lice, or ukus, will not be sent home from school, which is raising concerns that the infestation could spread. KHON2.

Oahu

A lease agreement to operate horse stables that a state lawmaker describes as the last remnant of paniolo culture in East Honolulu ends next week, prompting supporters to call for needed upgrades. City officials, meanwhile, are weighing whether to close down Koko Crater Stables, which spans 10 acres in Koko Crater Botanical Garden. Star-Advertiser.

An upcoming clean energy event in Hawaii will feature a 100 percent renewable energy microgrid that utilizes an electric vehicle charging station, biomass gasifier, battery storage, solar panels and a microgrid controller, event officials said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

The developer of a proposed wind farm on Oahu has unveiled a new plan for the project that calls for fewer, but taller turbines. Associated Press.

A study conducted by the National Low Income Housing Coalition states that, among other things, Hawai'i has the highest hourly wage needed to afford a two bedroom apartment. KITV4.

The Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association’s Charity Walk raised $2 million and seeks applications from local nonprofits over the next couple of weeks. Pacific Business News.

In the past 18 months, the Institute for Human Service has moved 388 homeless back to the mainland through its airline relocation program, which enrolls only clients who have support systems in their home states and requires participants to pay for half of their tickets. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

State Sen. Josh Green has paid a $300 administrative fine and submitted an amended financial disclosure form in an agreement with the state Ethics Commission. West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island state roads superintendent who allegedly drew upon government workers and equipment after his personal pickup truck blew a tire has been fined $3,000 by the state Ethics Commission. West Hawaii Today.

The average Hawaii County renter earns less than half of the income needed to afford a two-bedroom apartment, newly released data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition shows. Tribune-Herald.

The final phase of the Pahoa roundabout project opened Monday, marking the end of a much-maligned detour route and the beginning of new traffic patterns in the area. Tribune-Herald.

The new man at the helm of Hawaii County Civil Defense is an old hand at emergency management for the state. That’s allowing a smooth transition for Ed Teixeira, former vice director of state Civil Defense, now called the Emergency Management Agency. West Hawaii Today.

A Puna-based public charter school hopes to appease some of its recent financial problems by delaying payments — such as rent — until late July, after its first allocation of 2016-17 fiscal year per-pupil funding arrives. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Maui

In the past 10-plus years, the Maui rental market has become more challenging. A  modest, two-bedroom rental rental under 800 square feet in a rural area like Ha‘ikū that would have gone for $1,200 a month a few years ago would now rent for upwards of $1,600 a month. Maui Now.

A mixed-use development cleared a hurdle Tuesday when the Maui Planning Commission accepted its final environmental assessment. Maui News.

A once ginormous value for a small Maui software company has vanished after the firm named Code Rebel Corp. filed for bankruptcy last week in a Delaware court. Star-Advertiser.

Second Circuit Judge Richard Bissen will discuss Hawaiian cultural issues in the courts as the featured speaker at the annual membership dinner of the Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce. Maui News.

Kauai

For about 25 minutes Thursday, Gov. David Ige outlined recent goals and achievements of his administration, the Legislature and the team of Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. Garden Island.

The number of visitors coming to Hawaii rose 3.4 percent in April compared to the same month a year earlier. But the Hawaii Tourism Authority said Thursday tourist spending dropped more than 1 percent to $1.1 billion during the month. Garden Island.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) secured $12 million in defense funding for Kauai for fiscal year 2017. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Japan's Abe nixes Pearl Harbor trip, NextEra reconsidering $4.3B Hawaii electric purchase, crash that killed health director was preventable, revenues council tweaks projection downward, Honolulu rail board reconsidering route, $135M Coco Palms reno slows, ohia wilt a concern, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
Kilauea lava flow a Puu Oo, courtesy Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
Scientists have posted the first images of the new lava breakouts that began erupting this morning from the flanks of Puʻu ʻŌʻō. Big Island Video News.

Lava began flowing in two directions from Kilauea’s Pu‘u ‘O‘o cone Tuesday morning. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Civil Defense and geologists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory are watching two new lava flows from the Puu Oo vent that began Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

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President Barack Obama said Wednesday he plans to use his historic visit to Hiroshima with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to reflect on the suffering of war and the need to take steps to prevent it. Abe said he had no plans to reciprocate Obama's gesture by paying his own visit to Pearl Harbor. Associated Press.

NextEra Energy Inc.’s proposed $4.3 billion takeover of Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. is looking less and less likely as the company gets a new chance to buy the largest power distributor in Texas, analysts said. Bloomberg News.

The $4.3 billion merger deal between Florida-based NextEra Energy and Hawaiian Electric Industries is looking less likely to go through, analysts said in a Bloomberg story Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co.’s announcement last week that it has reached an agreement with a subsidiary of Fortis Inc. for the Canadian electric and gas utility giant to supply the state’s largest utility with liquefied natural gas as a replacement for oil has surprised the other Hawaii utility looking to ship in LNG. Pacific Business News.

A panel of experts charged with predicting how much the state will collect in taxes revised its estimate downward Tuesday by about $34 million for this year, but that isn’t expected to cause any great hardship in state government. Star-Advertiser.

The Council on Revenues tweaked its state revenue forecast downward today despite numerous economic indicators pointing to an upward trend. Hawaii Public Radio.

For the first time, former Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa admits she's thinking about running for U.S. Rep. Mark Takai's seat. Hawaii News Now.

State lawmakers passed two bills in an attempt to monitor and reduce the number of opioid-related overdoses in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

To hear the state’s prison officials tell it, Hawaii is saving millions of dollars by sending hundreds of its excess prison inmates to the mainland. But a closer inspection shows that the deal isn’t as much of a bargain as it seems. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Rail board members are now openly questioning whether narrow Dillingham Boulevard would be the best path on which to build the island’s transit system heading into town, as the project faces huge costs and the community braces for the impacts of building through that crowded corridor. Star-Advertiser.

One of the biggest uncertainties for Honolulu’s commuter rail project — aside from concerns that there’s not enough money to build it — is how much it will cost to relocate utilities along the proposed route. Civil Beat.

Opponents of a planned tourist attraction with commercial hula shows and luau buffets amid gardens deep in Manoa Valley have a new opportunity to contest the project following a lapsed permit for the work. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: There’s no dispute that the 2012 general election was marred by widespread ballot shortages that caused confusion and delays at many polling places. Now the Hawaii Supreme Court will have to decide what, if anything, needs to be done about it. The court heard oral arguments last week in the appeal of a lawsuit brought by the Green Party of Hawaii and seven individual voters stemming from the 2012 ballot fiasco. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Rocks placed on the Mauna Kea Access Road on May 16 have rekindled tensions on the mountain, as state conservation officers seek a person of interest spotted on a Visitor Information Center camera. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii state conservation officers are seeking a suspect who placed rocks on the access road to the Big Island's Mauna Kea. Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement officers said in a statement Tuesday that a shirtless man wearing board shorts and slippers was captured on surveillance cameras just before the rocks appeared. Associated Press.

Government officials at levels from Hilo to Washington, D.C., are calling for increased resources and collaboration to fight rapid ohia death. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz is pressing federal and state authorities to bolster efforts to eradicate the fungus killing tens of thousands of acres of native ohia trees on the Big Island, comparing the spread of the disease known as rapid ohia death to a large forest fire in scope and degree of devastation. Star-Advertiser.

State land chairwoman Suzanne Case has approved an environmental review for a logging operation of non-native trees in the Waiakea Timber Management Area on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission announced Tuesday that it has resolved a complaint over Big Island Sen. Josh Green’s failure to disclose property he owns on Oahu. The commission decided to agree to a settlement in which the senator must pay a $300 administrative penalty, giving him a lighter penalty in large part because of his cooperation in the investigation. Civil Beat.

Defamation, malice, and cunning. That’s how a Hawaii Island Humane Society response is characterizing a lawsuit filed in mid-April by Big Island Dog Rescue. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
The Makani Kai Air Cessna crash that led to the death of state Department of Health Director Loretta Fuddy three years ago off Molokai's Kalaupapa peninsula could have been prevented, according to a report by the National Transportation Safety Board. Maui News.

Despite concerns about traffic, the 1,600-acre Waikapu Country Town project advanced Tuesday as the Maui Planning Commission formalized its comments on the development's draft environmental impact statement. Maui News.

A Maui County Council committee recommended two proposed charter amendments and deferred three others Monday, as members began the task of whittling down nearly 20 proposals for November's general election ballot. Maui News.

The Historic Hawai'i Foundation is recognizing four Maui County projects for historic preservation honors during its 42nd annual Preservation Honor Awards ceremony Friday in Honolulu. Maui News.

Kauai

A $135-million project to bring Coco Palms back to life is still moving ahead. After being told that funding for the project is in the bank, the Planning Commission unanimously voted Tuesday to defer its decision on demolition of the resort until June 28. Garden Island.

An “SOS” drawn in the sand led to the rescue today of two hikers stranded overnight on the Na Pali Coast Trail on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

A couple was rescued on Kalalau beach Tuesday morning after writing a signal for help in the sand. Garden Island.

Four victims of Monday’s plane crash at the Port Allen Airport have been identified by friends and family. Enzo Amitrano, Wayne Rose, and brothers Marshall and Phillip Cabe died in the accident. The pilot has not been identified. Garden Island.

The Sunday discovery of 34 dead wedge-tailed shearwater birds near Kauai’s Spouting Horn remains under investigation, but officers with Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources still believe dogs are behind the killings. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Judge orders Hawaii to fund Hawaiian Home Lands, sex trafficking ban advances, Green's residency questioned, more on Caldwell's Honolulu budget, elected attorney general bill advances, Kauai studies salaries, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
File photo: the late Rep. Mele Carroll leads Hawaiian group on land rights © 2016 All Hawaii News
The state of Hawaii must adequately fund the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, a judge said Monday. But the judge also said she is not ordering the state to appropriate a specific amount. Civil Beat.

Circuit Judge Jeannette Castagnetti said this week that she will strike from her November order language that instructs the state to boost funding for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to about $28.5 million from its current level of $9.6 million. Star-Advertiser.

The latest attempt to ban sex trafficking in Hawaii would treat minors who engage in sex work differently than adults in the industry. Associated Press.

Bills to elect judges and limit the number of terms that state lawmakers can serve are likely dead this legislative session. But a measure that would let voters elect the state attorney general is still alive. Civil Beat.

Wave energy and ocean thermal energy conversion, or OTEC, are two of the renewable energy resources that Hawaii will need to explore to bring the state closer to its 100 percent renewable energy goal by 2045, the head of the state’s Energy Office told Pacific Business News.

A bill that initially set out to require state energy regulators to determine there is a “substantial net benefit” in order to approve a utility merger has cleared its final committee hurdle in the House. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Wildlife Coalition is set to release a new investigative report Thursday morning that looks into the online trade of elephant ivory and related wildlife products in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Ivory is a hot political issue locally this year. Two bills before the state Legislature, House Bill 2502 and Senate Bill 2647, propose to ban all sales of elephant ivory in Hawaii, which is the third-largest ivory market in the U.S. after New York and California, both of which have recently passed ivory bans. Star-Advertiser.

The chief of the boat of the Pearl Harbor attack submarine USS Columbia was relieved of his duties today “due to a pattern of poor leadership,” the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Chronic homelessness will continue to be a major source of contention between Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and City Council members if deliberations on the fiscal 2017 budget package are any indication. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell wants the City Council to approve a $2.33 billion budget for fiscal year 2017, but judging from key Council members’ critical reactions Wednesday, it’s going to be a fight. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council is recommending lifeguard coverage be expanded on O’ahu beaches. Hawaii Public Radio.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's $2.3 billion budget includes money for a lot of the basic city services. The lion's share will go for sewer upgrades. It's part of a federal court settlement. KITV4.

Creating new positions in the City and County of Honolulu, and even a new division to help with affordable housing. That’s part of Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposed budget for the next fiscal year. He is asking for $2.3 billion, up 2.5 percent from last year. KHON2.

Despite being one of Hawaii's most iconic beaches, many visitors don't know Waikiki Beach is actually an engineered beach that has been filled with imported sand for decades. Waikiki has been facing erosion problems for years, so Hawaii lawmakers are pushing a bill to restore it. Associated Press.

NOAA stresses importance of reporting after mutilated sea turtle discovered. KHON2.

Four Kapolei students were named the inaugural winners of the Maunakea Scholars Program, believed to be the first of its kind in the United States that gives aspiring astronomers an opportunity to spend time at a major international observatory. Star-Advertiser.

Jon Riki Karamatsu, a former deputy city prosecutor and state legislator, was convicted today of drunken driving for the second time. Star-Advertiser.

Jon Riki Karamatsu, the former vice speaker of the House and deputy city prosecutor, was found guilty Wednesday of operating a motor vehicle under an intoxicant, according to the state Attorney General’s office. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Sen. Josh Green’s Tale Of Two Cities. The longtime Hawaii Island lawmaker says he now spends about half his time on Oahu, including working a medical job in Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Eight new vector control workers should be helping fight the island’s dengue fever outbreak by next month, and the Hawaii National Guard may be called for a West Hawaii community cleanup day in the near future. West Hawaii Today.

Two previously identified hot spots for dengue fever in South Kona were discussed at the Hawaii County Council meeting on Wednesday. Local lawmakers talked about the reopening of Ho’okena Beach, and the possibility of Miloli’i catchment tanks becoming habitat for mosquitoes. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. confirmed Wednesday that it terminated a power purchase agreement with Hu Honua Bioenergy LLC. Tribune-Herald.

Two Hilo gaming establishments raided Tuesday by local and federal authorities were previously raided by law enforcement. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Monique Yamashita takes over today as executive director of the 30-year-old Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center, the island's leader in providing transitional housing and other services for the homeless. Maui News.

Kauai

Developers who hope to rebuild the historic Coco Palms Hotel near Kapaa said on Wednesday that a final financial commitment on funding for the $23 million project “could come at any hour, any day.” Garden Island.

Officials agree that considerable, and often unfair, pay discrepancies exist between certain Kauai County executives and their rank-and-file public employees, but precisely how to resolve the disparities — and in particular how to fund those irregularities — remains unclear. Garden Island.

Kanani Fu has been appointed as the county’s new director of housing. Garden Island.

Monday, February 22, 2016

Hawaii farmland dwindling, dairy seeks state bailout, Honolulu Police sued for racial discrimination, cocaine possession mars Maui legislator's medical marijuana dispensary application, bad year for coffee, Legislature pares bill list, Kauai lobbying bill advances, Humane Society in Big Island group's cross-hairs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii Island farmland © 2016 All Hawaii News
There's a drop in the number of acres devoted to agriculture between 1980 and 2015: a decline of 200,000 acres of cropland and 340,000 acres of pastureland, representing drops of 57 percent and 31 percent, respectively. Star-Advertiser.

A state Department of Agriculture study of agricultural land use aimed at helping industry, government and the community in decision-making also tells the story of the accelerated decline of farming in Hawaii, punctuated by this year's announcement of the end of sugar cultivation on Maui. Maui News.

A baseline study of agricultural land use created by a team of Big Island researchers and planners is intended to help inform future decisions as Hawaii’s agriculture continues to evolve. Tribune-Herald.

Bad weather and a lingering pest problem delivered major blows to Hawaii coffee farmers this past season, according to a new report that estimates production of one of the biggest crops in the state fell 16 percent. Star-Advertiser.

And Then There Were 2,633 — Hawaii Legislature Pares List Of Bills. A look at some of the measures that survived the first major deadline of the session, and some of what has fallen by the wayside. Civil Beat.

Owning a car could soon become more expensive as lawmakers consider increases to the state’s fuel tax and vehicle registration fees. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island state Sen. Lorraine Inouye expressed confidence Friday that a bill requiring a feasibility study for an interisland ferry would at least advance from the Senate to the House this legislative session. Maui News.

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and surgeon Ben Carson have qualified for Hawaii’s March 8 presidential caucus. They join Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, businessman Donald Trump and Ohio Governor John Kasich on the ballot. Civil Beat.

Under a bill making its way through the Legislature this year, an independent review board administratively attached to the attorney general’s office would conduct a separate investigation in police cases. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would give the state's counties the power to acquire electric utility property through eminent domain has passed second reading in the state House of Representatives, but it doesn't appear headed out of the House. Maui News.

State Sen. Josh Green has more than a half-million dollars in his campaign coffers, far more than any of his 24 colleagues. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Bicycling advocates are worried that a push by Honolulu City Council members to gain more control over planned bikeways and other Complete Streets projects could stymie efforts to make streets more pedestrian- and bike-friendly. Star-Advertiser.

A racial discrimination lawsuit involving three Honolulu police officers who say their lives were put at risk because of the color of their skin appears to be about to come to an end. Civil Beat.

SunEdison Inc. is urging Hawaii regulators to not approve Hawaiian Electric Co.’s termination of the power purchase agreement between the two companies regarding the Missouri company’s three proposed Oahu solar farms, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

A $5.5 million federal grant will aid the University of Hawaii Cancer Center’s research into why cervical cancer rates are so high among certain Pacific Island populations. Civil Beat.

Christian leader Franklin Graham is scheduled to be in Honolulu Wednesday to hold a prayer rally, preach the Gospel and challenge believers “to take a stand and take action.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s largest dairy is seeking state help to develop a $10 million milk processing plant after the only local processor dramatically cut what it pays Hawaii’s last two dairy farms for their milk last year. Three bills at the Legislature backed by the administration of Gov. David Ige seek to allow Big Island Dairy LLC to finance a milk processing plant by selling bonds under the state’s authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Cuts To Pest Control Have Allowed Dengue To Thrive. The state aggressively attacked previous outbreaks of dengue fever that were quickly stopped but response efforts have been gutted. Civil Beat.

Fewer county police officers were fired or suspended last year compared to the year before, according to an annual report submitted to the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii is pulling out of geothermal research projects on Hualalai. West Hawaii Today.

Administrators of East Hawaii’s hospital system began last week to publicly build a case for the possibility of shutting down the Extended Care Facility at Hilo Medical Center. Tribune-Herald.

How to reduce the number of unwanted animals that are euthanized on the island? That’s the question some animal advocate groups want to answer, and they attended a town hall meeting to tackle just that. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A federal judge denied United Public Workers' request to prevent the privatization of the Maui state hospitals. Pacific Business News.

U.S. District Judge Helen Gillmor rejected Friday an attempt by the United Public Workers union to derail the privatization of Maui Memorial Medical Center and Kula and Lanai Community hospitals, according to an announcement from the state Department of the Attorney General. Maui News.

A legislator involved in a cocaine possession case in 1988 is part of a medical marijuana dispensary application.  Sen. J. Kalani English’s guilty plea on a charge of promoting a dangerous drug was deferred and the case later dismissed after he completed court requirements. Associated Press.

After two decades of steadily processing the island's green waste into compost, Maui EKO Compost recently diverted its millionth ton of waste. Maui News.

The state will pay $50,000 to settle a lawsuit against the Department of Transportation for failing to offer the driver’s license test in Chuukese and Marshallese. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai


The eight-member citizen fact-finding group on pesticide use by Kauai’s major agricultural operators will release the draft of its final report on March 10. Garden Island.

A bill that would regulate lobbying on Kauai evolved in committee last week, and is expected to go before the County Council Wednesday. Garden Island.

The state is renewing its efforts to tackle a decades-long problem of accumulated trash and damage to heiau in Kauai’s Kalalau Valley — the result, for the most part, of illegal camping. Star-Advertiser.

Better bus system one solution to congestion. But an all-or-nothing approach difficult with tight budget. Garden Island.

Carol Bain says she is running for another term on the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative Board of Directors because she wants to see certain projects come to fruition. Garden Island.

Invasive species are still successfully staking their claim on Kauai. Garden Island.

Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Ige budget gets cool reception in Legislature, down-sized Pacific fleet worries China-watchers, Snowden attorney to teach University of Hawaii class, 2,600 complaints about fireworks, Honolulu police revive gambling probe, lava lake explosions at Kilauea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea eruption Saturday, photo courtesy of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.


Gov. David Ige’s proposed budget for next year got a frosty reception Monday from some leading state lawmakers who say they are worried about both how much the governor proposes to spend and about some upcoming expenses Ige didn’t include in his spending plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Finance Director Wes Machida sidestepped a host of questions from members of the House and Senate money committees Monday, but assured lawmakers that he will provide more details about the overall state spending plan in the coming weeks. Civil Beat.

US Pacific Fleet shrinks even as China grows more aggressive. Questions about whether the Pacific Fleet has enough resources are more of a reflection of regional anxieties than the Navy’s actual capability, said its commander, Adm. Scott Swift. Even if the entire fleet was in the South China Sea, he said, he’d still get asked whether the U.S. was bringing more forces. Associated Press.

Hawaii bankruptcies plunged in 2015 for the fifth year in a row, according to data released Monday from U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Hawaii. The 1,569 cases last year were down 7.8 percent from 1,702 in 2014 and were the lowest since 1,381 cases were filed in 2007. Star-Advertiser.

NextEra Energy Inc., the company looking to buy Hawaiian Electric Industries for $4.3 billion, is assisting HEI on the utility’s renewable-energy plan at no charge, which has raised concern among at least two groups involved in the sale’s review. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii chapter of the Better Business Bureau revoked 130 companies’ membership this year for owing thousands of dollars in membership fees to the BBB. Pacific Business News.

Federal wildlife officials reopened a public comment period for a draft environmental impact statement regarding the eradication of mongooses and rodents in Hawaii’s native ecosystems and wildlife refuges. Associated Press.

Oahu

The public, apparently fed up with illegal fireworks activity, made 2,600 complaints to police in December, said Honolulu Police Department Assistant Chief Alan Bluemke. Star-Advertiser.

A man arrested after National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration volunteers called police to report he was harassing a Hawaiian monk seal at a Nanakuli beach has filed an excessive force lawsuit. Associated Press.

A man who was pepper-sprayed, beaten and arrested by a Honolulu police officer in 2014 after chanting on a beach next to an endangered monk seal filed an excessive use of force lawsuit in federal court last week. Civil Beat.

Ben Wizner, a national ACLU attorney and head lawyer for NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden, will co-teach a seminar at the University of Hawaii Richardson School of Law this month. Pacific Business News.

Four years after a major gaming rooms case was dismissed, the Honolulu prosecutor's office appears ready to try again. Hawaii News Now.

Why Are Online Classes, Degrees Hard To Get At The University Of Hawaii? UH Manoa offers two fully online degree programs, a stark contrast to the 16 programs offered on average at comparable institutions. Civil Beat.

The late Don Ho is alive and well — “Tiny Bubbles” and all — at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu. The university’s ʻUluʻulu Henry Kuʻualoha Giugni Moving Image Archive of Hawaiʻi recently acquired the complete collection of the entertainer’s films, videos and personal memorabilia from the Donald Tai Loy Ho Trust. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

After nearly 12 years in office, state Sen. Josh Green has built a massive campaign war chest of more than $500,000 — money he is considering using for a run for either governor or lieutenant governor in 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Rockfalls into the lava lake at Kilauea on Hawaii island triggered small explosions at the summit early Monday morning and Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

The public is invited to learn about the eruptive events of Kilauea Volcano during a presentation by a USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist later this week. Tribune-Herald.

A historical area of land on the Southern Coast of Hawai‘i Island will be protected from development. Hawaii Public Radio.

One of two people taken into custody by police in what was dubbed “Freedom Ride 2016” told a judge Monday he was “the only living being in this courtroom, a child of creation.” Tribune-Herald.

Road and Highway Builders LLC, an affiliate of the Texas based Sterling Construction Co., was the lowest bidder for the $61 million contract to reconstruct the Saddle Road on Hawaii's Big Island, the parent company said. Pacific Business News.

Maui
The state Department of Transportation will decide this week whether to move forward with improvements to Hana's 90-year-old pier, a project fiercely opposed by Hana residents who fear the arrival of commercial activity and high costs. Maui News.

Kauai

January is National Mentoring Month. A proclamation was issued by Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. to the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Garden Island.