Showing posts with label Superferry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Superferry. Show all posts

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

DOE returns $465M in school construction funding, Maui council advances housing tax breaks, Honolulu building permit delays worsen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The DOE Is Giving Up $465M In School Construction Funds. Lawmakers who managed to get projects funded for their neighborhood schools are upset, and want to know why the money won't be spent as they intended. The state Department of Education plans to surrender $465 million that lawmakers had earmarked for school construction projects across the state, a move that will delay and possibly jeopardize funding for new classrooms, play courts and athletic facilities. Civil Beat.

Search for next UH president becoming a battle for control. The search for the next University of Hawaii president is turning into the latest battleground for control of the massive state public university system, with some state lawmakers exerting heavy pressure to try to influence the selection and pushing to have current President David Lassner vacate the post earlier than his expected departure at the end of 2024, according to several officials close to the process. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi received a 'D' grade in high school financial literacy — and that's an improvement. While Hawaiʻi lags behind most states in teaching financial literacy, it is beginning to see improvement compared to previous years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Governor Mulls New Insurance Program As Extreme Weather Raises Risk Factors.
Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and increasingly wildfires are contributing to an economic landscape where insurers may feel the risk is too great to do business here, Gov. Josh Green said Tuesday.  Civil Beat.

Gov. Josh Green marks first year in office. In an address on Tuesday marking his first year in office, Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green touted a litany of actions taken by his administration, including dealing with the devastation suffered in the deadly Maui wildfires. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Assaults, other aggressive behaviors reported almost daily on Hawaii State Hospital campus. While officials say an employee’s fatal stabbing on the campus last month is the first murder to ever happen on the grounds of state facility, data obtained through public records requests show there have been nearly 1,500 reported incidents of assaults or other aggressive behavior on the campus over the last five years. Hawaii News Now.

Alaska Airlines explores possibility of returning service to Hawaii’s rural communities. The Alaska Airlines buyout of Hawaiian Airlines could potentially restore flights to smaller communities left with fewer options after the pandemic, but it won’t happen anytime soon. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

 Honolulu’s Building Permit Delays: A ‘Nightmare’ Decades In The Making. Construction industry professionals say it’s taking longer than ever to get a permit in Honolulu. The delays disrupt lives and put a drag on the economy.  Civil Beat.

Judge dismisses lawsuit to save Haiku Stairs. A lawsuit by the Friends of Haiku Stairs to block the removal of the once-legally accessible steel steps built along a sheer ridge line above Kaneohe has been denied. On Tuesday, 1st Circuit Judge John M. Tonaki granted summary judgment on the city’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit outright. Star-Advertiser.

Man with 164 citations charged in hit-and-run death of McKinley student.
The 46-year-old man who had no driver’s license and 164 citations when he was arrested in connection with the hit-and-run incident that killed a McKinley High School student Feb. 15 was charged Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Vending machine at nightclub allegedly sold cocaine and ecstasy.
Two men are facing federal charges for allegedly selling cocaine, ecstasy, magic mushrooms and other drugs out of vending machines in a Honolulu after- hours club and in a fake health and wellness store. Star-Advertiser.

From illegal game rooms to police staffing concerns, HPD tries to calm fears about continued violence in West Oahu. Over the past six months, there have been at least half a dozen violent incidents in West Oahu. Due to the spike in these incidents, West Oahu families met with lawmakers and law enforcers Tuesday night in hopes of working together to reduce violent crimes. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Officials say there is no emergency after Navy sirens inadvertently activated.
The sirens do not belong to the state or city, but to the U.S. Navy, which informed state and city officials that its giant voice system was inadvertently activated Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Japanese entrants at marathon expected to nearly double this year. The tourist entrants have mostly come from Japan. Around 9,000 to 10,000 are expected to toe the starting line near Aloha Tower for Sunday’s 51st annual 26.2-mile race, Honolulu Marathon president Jim Barahal said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council approves homeless funding. Allocation of nearly $10 million for homeless service providers came one step closer to reality Tuesday as the County Council’s Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions Committee unanimously advanced a resolution to a full council hearing. West Hawaii Today.

HPD vice detective arrested, charged with perjury, falsifying affidavit. According to the complaint filed Tuesday in Hilo Circuit Court, Detective William Brown  then assigned to East Hawaii Vice Section, made a false statement to the grand jury on March 15 in the case of Julissa Herrera, who was indicted on charges of first-, second- and third-degree promotion of a dangerous drug, plus possession of drug paraphernalia. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  KITV4.

Presentation about Waiakea Peninsula draws mostly criticism. The Hawaii Community Development Authority and Department of Land and Natural Resources hosted an open house at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel to discuss and hear public feedback regarding how the Waiakea and Banyan Drive areas should be managed. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Bill Prohibits Overnight Parking Fronting Pāhoehoe Beach Park. Bill 105 prohibits parking between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. for portions of Aliʻi Drive along Pāhoehoe Beach Park. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Council Moves Swiftly On Tax Breaks To Provide Long-Term Rentals For Fire Survivors. Mayor Richard Bissen hopes the owners of vacation rentals agree to take part in the "shared sacrifice" of the recovery. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Maui council to consider bill to establish criteria for ʻOhana Assistance Pilot Program. The Maui council will consider a bill Dec. 15 to establish criteria for the ʻOhana Assistance Pilot Program, which offers grants of up to $100,000 to build an accessory dwelling or second farm dwelling for residents’ long-term occupancy. Maui Now.

Maui Fire Department Purchases Show The Fire’s Heavy Toll On Resources. Maui’s fire department estimates it has spent $2.7 million to replace damaged gear and replenish its inventory of equipment and firefighting materials four months after the wildfires. Civil Beat.

Kauai

State removing last remnants of the defunct Hawaii Superferry. The Department of Transportation is looking for a contractor to remove the existing Superferry ramp at Pier 1 at Nawiliwili Harbor on Kauai.  KITV4.

Island home sales slump. A dreary cycle for the island housing market continued in the first month of fall, as sales of single-family homes slumped more than 13 percent to begin the final quarter of the year. Garden Island.

Contractors Association of Kaua‘i installs new officers. The Contractors Association of Kaua‘i (CAK) announced its new slate of officers through the installation of the new leadership during the CAK 66th annual meeting that was held under inclement weather at Puakea Golf Course on Thursday. Garden Island.

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

Hanabusa kicks off gubernatorial campaign; Rice, who fought race-based OHA elections, dies at 83; ferry not financially feasible; tax collections forecast to rise, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Hanabusa campaign
U.S. Rep. Hanabusa campaign kickoff Monday, courtesy photo
Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa officially launched her campaign for Hawaii governor Monday against Gov. David Ige, saying Hawaii needs new leadership at the top to tackle critical issues like lack of affordable housing and limited job opportunities for future generations. Star-Advertiser.

Hanabusa Launches Campaign With Swipe At ‘Rudderless’ Ige. The Hawaii congresswoman says state government is “adrift” and needs a course correction. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa on Monday launched her campaign for governor by criticizing the incumbent for a lack of leadership and saying the state should consider establishing safe zones for homeless people. Associated Press.

Colleen Hanabusa said she is tired of the Hawaii government’s same old song and dance. Garden Island.

Heating Up: Hanabusa vs Ige in Governor's Race. Hawaii’s Senior Congressional Representative officially announced her candidacy for Governor today.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hanabusa is officially running for governor and she isn't pulling any punches. Hawaii News Now.

Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa launched her campaign officially for governor of Hawaii Monday. KITV.

Hanabusa formally launches campaign for governor. KHON2.

Calling for leadership, a strong vision and action, Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa formally launched her campaign to become Hawaii’s next governor on Monday. Big Island Now.

=====

Study: Ferry not feasible. Perhaps to no surprise, a report — mandated by the Legislature and published on the state Department of Transportation’s website Monday — says an interisland or intraisland ferry system won’t work without a state subsidy. Tribune-Herald.

State tax collections forecast to rise. Economic experts in charge of forecasting Hawaii’s tax collections say the state’s revenue will grow at a slightly higher rate than expected, citing in part an anticipated stimulus effect from the Republicans’ federal tax cuts. Star-Advertiser.

=====

About 9 percent of University of Hawaii students say they have been sexually harassed, and 6 percent experienced unwanted sexual contact on or off campus, according to survey results released Monday. Star-Advertiser.

How Safe Do UH Students Feel? New Survey Gauges Their Views. A report breaks down students’ opinions and experiences regarding sexual harassment and nonconsensual contact. Civil Beat.

More than 22 percent of female students at the University of Hawaii have experienced dating or domestic violence, and about 12 percent have been sexually harassed or stalked during their time there, according to an expansive new survey released Monday. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii survey results show most domestic/sexual assaults were not reported to campus officials. KITV.

=====

Health Department proposes disinterment rules. The state Department of Health is implementing new mandates for digging up human remains, but rules covering disinterment of ancient or historic graves regulated by the Department of Land and Natural Resources remain unchanged. West Hawaii Today.

Patients, Providers Aren't Waiting For Dispensaries. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ decision to roll back protection of cannabis businesses last week left a cloud of uncertainty over Hawaii’s medical cannabis dispensary program. Hawaii Public Radio.

'This is a work choice': Advocate looks to decriminalize prostitution in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines said it will begin nonstop flights between Honolulu and Long Beach, Calif., beginning May 31 and that it finished 2017 by carrying a record number of passengers. Star-Advertiser.

First Hawaiian CFO leaving company. First Hawaiian Bank Chief Financial Officer Michael Ching is stepping down from his position effective Jan. 31 but will continue to assist the company on a consulting basis during the transition. Star-Advertiser.

Chipotle has no plans to open in Hawaii. Popular restaurant chain Chipotle Mexican Grill will not be expanding to Hawaii any time soon, according to a recent update by the company. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Affordable-housing plan now aimed at seniors. A state agency has again scaled back a plan to build affordable housing on the Kalihi-Palama headquarters of the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Rail Recovery Plan Remains A Work In Progress. HART’s board has declined to approve the plan for the $9 billion project until more details are fleshed out. Civil Beat.

Why Oahu’s Rural Homeless Have Often Been Undercounted. Getting a more accurate picture of the homeless population in remote areas is essential to providing services. Civil Beat.

Affordable housing community prepares to open for families in need. Kahauiki Village opens this Friday on 11.3 acres of land located between Nimitz Highway, Keehi Lagoon Park, and Sand Island. KHON2.

Security patrol newly reopened Kakaako Waterfront Park. After being closed for three months to repair damage caused by homeless campers, Kakaako Waterfront Park reopened Monday at 6 a.m., and by about 7:30 a.m. one person was already attempting to set up a tent. Star-Advertiser.

Online Anti-Crime Group Wants To Be A Political Force. “Stolen Stuff Hawaii” now has more than 100,000 Facebook followers on the lookout for each other’s property. Civil Beat.

DBEDT completes installation of largest solar PV system in Honolulu's business district. Hawaii's Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism said it has completed the installation of a 300-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system at its Pier 2 facility in Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

More than 1 in 10 University of Hawaii at Hilo students say they’ve been sexually harassed at some point as a student, and more than 18 percent have experienced dating and domestic violence while enrolled, according to a survey released Monday by the university system. Tribune-Herald.

Talking crime in Puna. Violent crime seemed to be on the minds of people who attended a forum Saturday on crime and drug abuse in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Embezzler gets 9-year term, must pay school back $3.1M. As Chief Financial Officer Pablo Rivera was stealing more than $50,000 per month from the University of Nations, he was telling school officials that he had reduced spending at the Kona campus but that the nondenominational Christian school still needed $500,000 to stay afloat. Star-Advertiser.

First Hawaiian Paradise Park Public Park Master Plan Meeting Held. HPP residents and county planners got to work on Sunday, developing a master plan for a new county park in the Puna subdivision. Big Island Video News.

$3 Million in Improvements Slated for Honokaa High & Intermediate. Big Island Now.

Public response to Kona’s newly added low-income housing at Kamakana Villages was overwhelming, with several prospective tenants left on the outside looking in following the lottery process. West Hawaii Today.

Harold “Freddy” Rice, Big Island rancher and community activist, died at the age of 83, according to his family. In 1996, Rice challenged an OHA policy that limited voting eligibility for the office’s Board of Trustees to Native Hawaiians. Citing the 15th Amendment, which prohibits race-based voting discrimination, Rice sued. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County solar permits in 2017 dropped by 59 percent. The number of permits issued plunged 59 percent to 676 from 1,657 in 2016, according to data compiled by Marco Mangelsdorf, who tracks rooftop solar permits and is president of Hilo-based ProVision Solar. Star-Advertiser.

Two new infestations of little fire ants were discovered on Maui, the Maui Invasive Species Committee announced today. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Airlines is adding more flights to Kapalua, and an executive said that the airline is “constantly looking at” bringing back a direct flight between Maui and Las Vegas. Maui News.

Conference highlights benefits of cannabis. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park has awarded a maintenance contract to Maris Inc. for rock scaling work and vegetation removal at Oheo Gulch in East Maui. Park officials say the project will significantly reduce the potential for rock fall hazards or falling debris. Maui Now.

Construction is scheduled to begin at Honokowai Beach Park in West Maui, on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018, for replacement of the outdoor shower and shower drainage improvements. Maui Now.

Kauai

Report: Occupants have no claim. The two leaders of a mainly Native Hawaiian group occupying the former Coco Palms resort in Wailua apparently have no ownership rights to the property, according to papers obtained by The Garden Island, despite their contentions in the civil ejectment case against them in District Court. Garden Island.

Hearing set on bus stop rules. The County of Kauai Transportation Agency is holding a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed rules and regulations regarding county bus stops. Garden Island.

KCC enrollment on the rise. Kauai Community College opened its doors to the spring semester Monday, with an opening day census of 1,219 students, an increase of 9.5 percent over the same period a year ago when the college recorded 1,085 students. Garden Island.

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Death threats against Hawaii judge who blocked Trump travel ban, former HPD Chief Kealoha targeted in FBI probe, state socks away money for rainy day, Kauai mulls general excise tax hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Federal courthouse in Honolulu © 2017 All Hawaii News
Hawaii judge who blocked new Trump travel ban gets death threats. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson has been assigned a 24-hour protection detail after receiving numerous death threats for blocking President Trump's latest travel ban. Hawaii News Now.

courtesy U.S. District Court
Watson
Hawaii state government has tucked away enough in cash reserves to weather the next “moderate” recession, according to the economic research firm Moody’s Analytics. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Superferry? Hawaii Economic Association Panel Says, "No." It’s been nearly a decade since the Superferry made its inaugural voyage to Kahului, Maui.   And, the feasibility of another interisland ferry came up during the Hawai’i Economic Association annual conference last week. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Does This Guy Make Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz Nervous? Barry Myers is Trump’s nominee to head NOAA but the Hawaii senator says he is “questionable choice.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the 27th most competitive tax code in the nation, according to the Tax Foundation’s 2018 State Business Tax Climate Index. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s timeshare industry contributed approximately $5.3 billion in consumer and business spending in 2016, according to a recent study conducted by Ernst & Young for the American Resort Development Association Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday, but the Hawaii franchisee says the filing has nothing to do with the two local restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s two Romano’s Macaroni Grill franchises won’t be impacted after the national chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Search warrant executed at Kealoha homes amid corruption probe. Criminal investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed search warrants at homes belonging to former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Wednesday morning, the latest turn in a years-long federal investigation into public corruption at some of the highest levels of Oahu's law enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

FBI executes search warrant of Kealohas’ home as third police officer arrested this week. Federal authorities are making their case even more clear. KHON2.

Court documents filed by federal attorneys Wednesday indicate they intend to charge retired Honolulu police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, as part of their two-year-long case alleging a criminal conspiracy at the Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

Key points in criminal filings. The criminal complaint filed Wednesday against Honolulu police Lt. Derek Hahn clearly identify retired police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, as alleged co-conspirators in the federal investigation into corruption within the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

An FBI affidavit unsealed in U.S. District Court today details how officers close to the former chief of the Honolulu Police Department allegedly conspired to frame the uncle of his wife. Star-Advertiser.

FBI Reveals New Details About The Alleged Honolulu Police Conspiracy. A police lieutenant is the latest arrest in the unfolding story of alleged corruption in the Honolulu Police Department. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Lt. Derek Hahn was released on a $50,000 signature bond this afternoon several hours after being arrested by FBI agents in connection with the federal investigation of retired HPD Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine. Star-Advertiser.

The FBI arrested Honolulu police officer Derek Hahn on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing federal corruption investigation targeting Hawaii law enforcement. Civil Beat.

Police Commission Chair is optimistic HPD will have new chief by end of month. Despite Police Commission Chair Max Sword recusing himself from the selection process, he was front and center Wednesday in reassuring the media that HPD will be under the command of a new chief by the end of the month. Hawaii News Now.

Nominees to Honolulu Police Commission will not help choose new chief. Five days before the first day of interviews for the seven finalists for Honolulu Police Chief, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced two nominees to fill the vacancies on Honolulu Police Commission. KITV.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell nominated Wednesday two businesspeople to serve on the Honolulu Police Commission. Karen Chang and Gerard “Jerry” Gibson were nominated to fill the vacancies left by Luella Costales and Marc Tilker. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell Names Two New Honolulu Police Commissioners. But the two won’t be on board in time to help with the selection of a new police chief, under the current timeline. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has nominated Jerry Gibson and Karen Chang to serve on the volunteer Honolulu Police Commission, pending confirmation by the Honolulu City Council. Pacific Business News.

=====

Stranded Waikiki fishing vessel raises illegal immigration concerns. Federal immigration officials are now investigating the fishing boat that ran aground with 20 people on board in Waikiki last week. Hawaii News Now.

Video: Honolulu rail cars go on test run. Local transit officials have released footage of Honolulu’s rail cars running under their own power for the first time on the elevated guideway. Star-Advertiser.

One of the city's four-car rail trains reached 40 miles per hour in a speed test Wednesday. And officials are optimistic that it will be able to soon reach its top speed. Hawaii News Now.

Another new condominium tower has opened in Kakaako as the wave of development continues to break over the urban Honolulu area. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. on Wednesday marked the completion of the 317-unit Anaha in Honolulu, its second luxury mixed-use condominium tower in the developer’s Ward Village in Kakaako, with a traditional Hawaiian blessing. Pacific Business News.

Target opened its newest Hawaii store at Ala Moana Center on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu-based construction company Tunista Services LLC on Wednesday received a $7.4 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense for operations, maintenance and support services at Melrose Air Force Range in New Mexico. Pacific Business News.

Pride month hits Honolulu promoting equality, celebrating love. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The board charged with hiring the county Human Resources director will seek applications from the public, rather than limit its search to current county employees. West Hawaii Today.

A County Council resolution wants United States leaders to use diplomacy in dealing with the crisis on the Korean Peninsula. Big Island Video News.

Airbnb use growing exponentially for Ironman. Altogether, the company reported, arrivals to the island for the weekend netted Hawaii Island hosts $584,000 — about $350 for the typical host — with hosts in West Hawaii collectively earning $483,000, or $430 for the typical host during the event. West Hawaii Today.

Five more alala were released into the wilderness near Hilo last week, joining the six young Hawaiian crows that were introduced to the forest there at the end of September. Star-Advertiser.

Maui


Former worker slaps county with $1.63M discrimination suit. Robert Straub alleges he was fired when 71 years old and replaced by ‘substantially younger person’ Maui News.

A discrimination complaint involving an alleged denial of reasonable accommodation for an employee with a disability was settled for $35,000 in July. Maui News.

Pharmlab Hawaii LLC in Kahului became the second independent laboratory in Hawaii certified to test medical marijuana produced by licensed dispensaries and is expected to begin analyzing material for content and safety by the end of the week, according to state Health Department and lab officials. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Finance announced it will be holding a real property tax sale on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017 and will continue the sale on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 if necessary. Maui Now.

Kauai

At Wednesday’s county council committee meeting, members discussed the possibility of increasing the general excise tax by a half percent to provide essential funding for rebuilding infrastructure, repairing roads, reconstructing bridges and improving public transport. Garden Island.

Kauai Powerlines Are Killing 1,800 Seabirds A Year. An analysis by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service predicts that all colonies of two endangered bird species on the island could vanish as early as 2050. Civil Beat.

Shearwaters, Hawaiian Petrels could be wiped out in 30 years. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released an analysis that estimates 1,800 endangered seabirds on Kauai are killed by collisions with power lines every year. Hawaii News Now.

Three ao released at Lydgate Park. The ‘a’o, or Newell’s shearwater perched on Hana Montgomery’s hands flew right into the sand four or five times before it took to the skies Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

A scientific analysis completed for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and obtained by the Center for Biological Diversity estimates that 1,800 endangered seabirds are killed by collisions with power lines on Kauai every year. KITV.

The U.S. Navy has scheduled a public meeting on Kauai regarding its proposal for training and testing that includes the use of sonar and explosives. Garden Island.

Thursday, July 20, 2017

Superferry project still costing taxpayers millions, Hanabusa war chest dwindles, Police Commission won't pay officer's legal tab, Big Island condo development yanked after public opposition, Tropical Storm Fernanda weakens, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Superferry docked in 2010 in Honolulu © 2017 All Hawaii News
The Hawaii Superferry has been kaput for about eight years, but a new audit shows the state won’t finish paying off its more than $70 million in harbor upgrades and interest for the privately owned service until 2028. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s interisland ferry was shut down eight years ago, but the state still owes $33 million for the costly failure. Associated Press.

Eight years after the Superferry ceased operations in Hawaii, the state is still paying off more than $70 million it incurred from harbor improvements and interest, according to a recent report by the State Auditor’s office. Pacific Business News.

Eight years after the Hawaii Superferry shut down, the State Office of the Auditor says Hawaii must pay $32.6 million in expenses for the ship that once traveled between islands. KITV.

The Hawaii Superferry stopped operations over eight years ago and yet, the state auditor says, Hawaii continues to pay the exorbitant costs incurred to support it. KHON2.

=====

Tulsi Gabbard Rakes In Far More Campaign Cash Than Colleen Hanabusa. The latest federal campaign finance reports indicate very different strategies by Hawaii’s congresswomen, and reinforce the notion Hanabusa may run for governor. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Health expects to certify Hawaii’s first medical marijuana testing laboratory by the end of the month. Star-Advertiser.

Groups have filed a human-rights complaint that aims to jump-start an investigation into conditions among foreign workers in Hawaii’s commercial fishing industry. Associated Press.

International students studying in Hawaii spent $225 million in the 2016-17 school year, a 25 percent dip from the year before, according to a report released Wednesday by the state’s resource center for economical and statistical data. Civil Beat.

A new report has found that international students have contributed more than $225 million to Hawaii's economy during the 2016-17 school year. Pacific Business News.

A state agency is seeking a buyer for 1,221 affordable rental apartments in an effort to improve the quality of the homes and maintain affordability for most of the existing tenants. The Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp. published a request for proposals last week to solicit bids from private investors for its portfolio of six rental projects on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

New Database Of Severe Worker Injuries In Hawaii. The federal government began requiring reporting of certain severe injuries in 2015, in hopes of improving worker safety. Civil Beat.

More than 1,300 people are taking part in the 3-day World Conservation Conference in Honolulu this week. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tropical Storm Fernanda continues to weaken as it inches closer to the Central Pacific. The cyclone, which has maximum sustained winds at 65 mph, is forecast to become a tropical depression by Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Since a city task force looked at the issue in 2005, estimating that about 300 residential high-rises did not have automatic sprinkler systems, not a single one of those projects has voluntarily installed the equipment, according to an informal survey of industry officials and a review of city building permit records. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Commission voted 4-2 Wednesday against providing legal counsel to a police officer who’s named in a high-profile civil lawsuit. Star-Advertiser.

Police commission votes against covering officer’s legal fees in lawsuit involving former chief’s wife. KHON2.

Police Commissioners Clash Over “Unconstitutional” Secret Hearings. Despite vehement objections from a former federal prosecutor and retired supreme court justice, the commission voted to hold hearings behind closed doors. Civil Beat.

Two Oahu-based community health centers will receive a combined total of nearly $3 million in federal grants to expand their health services. Pacific Business News.

State officials say a video of monk seal “Rocky” on Kaimana Beach protecting her pup from a nearby male monk seal should serve as a caution to ocean-goers to stay clear of Waikiki’s latest residents. Star-Advertiser.

 The number of homes sold at $1.5 million or higher decreased 16 percent in June, though sales were up 18 percent during the first half of 2017, according to a luxury Oahu housing report by Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties. Pacific Business News.

SolarCity cofounder Peter Rive has quit Tesla Inc., just one month after his brother, Lyndon, exited the company. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A plan to build a 306-unit condominium in Kahaluu died Wednesday after the developer withdrew its application for a needed permit. Ocean Villas at Kahaluu Bay LLC filed its official withdrawal of their special management area permit application with the county’s planning department, bringing to an end all efforts to develop the 42-acre parcel. West Hawaii Today.

A controversial 306-unit condo development planned for Kahaluu has been terminated. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County is not going to fight an appeals court ruling invalidating a South Kona development and requiring the county to treat Community Development Plans as law. West Hawaii Today.

A developer recently shut shoreline access through their property at Pepeekeo Point following a dispute with Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

A Marine officer was critically wounded after being shot during night live-fire training this month at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

The public is invited to a launch event today to learn more about the Hawaii Island Business Plan Competition, an islandwide contest designed to help small businesses get started and/or grow. Tribune-Herald.

A residential estate on the slopes of Hualalai Mountain has been named the Best Outdoor Retreat in HGTV's 2017 Ultimate House Hunt. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

State Land Use Commission members heard from more than three dozen testifiers Wednesday afternoon, and testimony ran roughly 3-to-1 against approving the Pilani Promenade’s final environmental impact statement. Maui News.

Authorities with the Maui Emergency Management Agency say waves generated by distant Hurricane Fernanda are expected to lead to increasing surf along east facing shores the next couple of days, and this may lead to greater wave run-up along exposed windward coastlines. Maui Now.

Applications continue to be accepted for the one- and two-bedroom apartments at the County of Maui’s 56-unit Kulamalu Hale apartment rentals in Pukalani. Maui Now.

Maui veterans, who fought for years to consolidate medical, psychological and administrative services into a single location to reduce confusion, travel and overcrowding, claimed a significant victory Wednesday with the announcement of the approval of a new lease for a facility near Maui High School in Kahului. Maui News.

Kauai

An experiment in community-based fishery management is underway on Kauai’s north shore. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kumano I Ke Ala, a nonprofit group whose aim is to empower a sustainable West Kauai and restore its resources, is hosting a community work day to remove the slit that has built up in the middle of the Waimea River. Garden Island.

Rotary Club names new president. Garden Island.

Friday, December 30, 2016

Fishing limits could raise ahi prices, Superferry redux, theft charges for Maui employee who built kitchen, coffee picker shortage, more physical exams for schoolkids, Gorak PUC conflict investigated, Royal Hawaiian Gold Club must clean up, sugar plantation equipment heads to auction, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Suisan Fish Market
courtesy Suisan Fish Market
While prices for ahi are relatively stable this holiday season, some say they could rise next year as fishing limits tighten. Hawaii News Now.

Superferry dreams face cost, public opinion hurdles. Lawmakers approved $50,000 in May to study a possible inter-island ferry, and the state Department of Transportation received a $500,000 grant from the federal Maritime Administration to hire consultants to explore potential routes and boats. Associated Press.

It’s been almost 10 years since protesters rallied against the Superferry in Nawiliwili, but some Kauai residents have their reservations and optimisms about an interisland ferry system that may reemerge, pending a state study. Garden Island.

A new law will take effect this upcoming school year that will double the number of physical examinations Hawaii students will need to get in order to keep attending public school. KHON2.

Two state lawmakers are raising red flags over the legal work Tom Gorak was doing on the side while serving full-time as general counsel of the state Public Utilities Commission. Civil Beat.

Newly elected U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has decided to get closer to her constituents by moving out of the federal building complex across from Honolulu Harbor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii No. 8 For Electoral Integrity. The integrity of America’s electoral system lags far behind other Western democracies, according to a new report. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige gave his support Thursday to two young men who want to make the world a better place. Andrew Tisba and Manuel Frederick of Let’s All Connect say they are on a journey to visit all 50 states. Civil Beat.

A crowd of mostly tourists cheered as President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle arrived at a Waikiki restaurant Thursday night. Associated Press.

Oahu

The owners of the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club must provide bathrooms, parking and trash receptacles for hikers of Maunawili Falls Trail or face losing their permit to operate the 18-hole course, the city said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A community association that owns the private marina in Hawaii Kai wants to more permanently inhibit sand from migrating off Portlock Beach into the boat entry channel by constructing a $2 million rock groin. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu building that houses the now-infamous restaurant that posted a sign in its window saying that voters of President-Elect Donald Trump couldn't eat there is up for sale, the broker handling the sale confirmed to Pacific Business News Thursday.

Hawaii

A bumper crop is usually good news for Big Island coffee farmers, but this year, many are facing a severe shortage of pickers. Businesses in both Kona and Kau are losing thousands of dollars. Hawaii News Now.

This past July, Governor David Ige signed a new law that creates a 10-year marine reserve across a three and a half mile stretch of coastline in North Kona. That came as a huge relief to the community leaders and residents in the area who have been fighting to protect the shoreline and its resources for decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tamar Elias, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientist, will present “Volcanic Air Pollution: The What, Where, and How of Vog in Hawaii” at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 at Hawaii Preparatory Academy’s Gates Performing Arts Center on the Upper Campus. The event is free and open to the public. West Hawaii Today.

A 17.73-pound taro corm grown by a group of farmers and cultural practitioners is being submitted to Guinness World Records. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Theft charges have been filed against a former Maui county employee accused of building a fancy kitchen on the taxpayers’ dime, without permission. KHON2.

A 59-year-old former Maui County Public Works district supervisor was charged with second-degree theft Tuesday, police records show. Maui News.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co.’s 36,000-acre plantation on Maui, which closed last week and effectively ended the era of the sugar industry in Hawaii, is auctioning off its equipment and items, Pacific Business News has learned.

The state Real Estate Commission will hold its standing committee meetings on Maui in January and will take comments from residents on current and future programs. Maui News.

Kauai

The entrance to the Princeville at Hanalei resort community will get a new Hawaiian landscaped feature as well as rebuilt roads under projects announced by Princeville Development Company’s president and CEO, Jeff Stone. Garden Island.

Monday, February 8, 2016

Hawaii bills tackle GMO fish, Superferry, animal rights, hemp, wrongfully imprisoned reparations, funding of innovation, elderly programs; Maui GMO ban heads to appeals court; 66 apply for medical marijuana dispensary licenses; fire chiefs claim losses; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Kampachi fish at local market © 2016 All Hawaii News
House Bill 686 would prohibit “propagating, cultivating, or farming genetically engineered fish” in state marine waters. The bill, sponsored by Democrat Reps. Kaniela Ing and John Mizuno, has a hearing Wednesday at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are tackling issues from animal rights to police accountability as lawmakers head into their third full week of the 2016 legislative session. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Department of Health on Friday released a list of 66 applicants, including actor Woody Harrelson and local technology entrepreneur Henk Rogers, who submitted proposals for the state’s first medical marijuana dispensary system. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Department of Health posts medical marijuana dispensary applicants online.

Lawmakers considered a bill Friday that would legalize and set rules for growing industrial hemp. The law would require growers to register with the state and would clarify the difference between hemp and marijuana. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering a proposal that would require the state to pay $50,000 to the wrongfully convicted for each year they were imprisoned. Associated Press.

The state Senate Committee on Transportation and Energy passed a bill late last week requiring the Department of Transportation to conduct a feasibility study of establishing a ferry system. Civil Beat.

Two state Senate committees are set to hear a bill Thursday that would establish a collective bargaining unit for graduate student assistants working at the University of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The Kupuna Caucus, which looks out for senior citizens at the Legislature, last week unveiled its package of bills for 2016, including measures to provide caregiver training, long-term care services and funding for resource centers statewide. Star-Advertiser.

Testimony backing a bill to allocate money from the corporate income tax to the innovation sector has received support from several groups in the Startup Paradise ecosystem. Pacific Business News.

The top-ranked doctors in Hawaii Health Systems earn far more than other state workers, even Supreme Court justices. Civil Beat.

Oahu

There’s a straightforward way to transform Oahu’s crumbling, pothole-plagued roads into the smoother ones that drivers in other parts of the country enjoy, asphalt-pavement industry experts say, but it’s a solution that has eluded the state and city for decades. Star-Advertiser.

For decades, Oahu and the neighbor islands have grappled with hundreds of miles of so-called “roads in limbo,” and the issue continues to affect some local road maintenance, officials say. Star-Advertiser.

The North Shore Chamber of Commerce is urging businesses to share their thoughts about the Laniakea parking situation with state Department of Transportation officials, according to a letter sent last week to chamber membership by its executive director. Hawaii News Now.

A new homeless shelter in Honolulu is banking on the idea that fewer rules could lead to more people off the streets. The Sand Island facility, called Hale Mauliola, has been in business for three months now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Today marks the 15th anniversary of the opening of Kapolei Hale, which was regarded in 2001 as a pivotal investment in development and growth of the Ewa region. Star-Advertiser.

One person has been arrested and dozens more cited during a law-enforcement operation at Kalalau Beach in the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kauai. KHON2.

The deaths of at least three albatross and the destruction of 15 nests at Kaena Point back in December has prompted state lawmakers to call for heightened security at the remote nature reserve. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Police issued almost 700 more speeding tickets on the Daniel K. Inouye Memorial Highway, also known as Saddle Road, in 2015 than in the previous year. Tribune-Herald.

State Sen. Russell Ruderman gave his re-election bid a boost at last year’s end with a $25,000 loan, helping him maintain a sizable fundraising advantage over challenger Greggor Ilagan. Campaign finance records show Ilagan, a Hawaii County Council member representing Puna, raised $8,412 during the last half of 2015, with $5,500 of that coming from a fundraising event in Honolulu. Tribune-Herald.

Fourteen applicants are vying to open the first medical marijuana dispensaries on Hawaii Island, according to information released Friday by the state Department of Health. Tribune-Herald.

West Hawaii Battalion Chief Ty Medeiros claimed Friday he lost $3,000 to $4,000 in overtime every two weeks when he was put on seven months paid leave last year for publicly criticizing Fire Chief Darren Rosario. During a daylong Merit Appeals Board hearing, Medeiros said he was humiliated when he was stripped of his badge and his rank insignia in front of his peers. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is looking for more public input on its September proposal to list 49 species of plants and animals in the Hawaiian Islands as endangered species. The federal agency will offer an informational meeting and a public hearing Tuesday in Hilo to gather input. During the informational meeting. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has agreed to hear arguments on a Maui County moratorium on farming genetically modified crops, which was struck down by a federal judge in Hawaii last year. Civil Beat.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments about whether to overturn a federal judge's ruling last year that struck down a Maui County voter-approved moratorium on genetically modified organisms. Maui News.

A legal attempt by a group seeking to halt cane burning by Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. continues in 2nd Circuit Environmental Court, though a judge struck down two claims in a ruling Friday. Maui News.

Maui officials are looking to encourage residents who are illegally operating vacation rentals to go through the permitting process. Associated Press.

The County Council Planning Committee drew closer Thursday to the completion of a bill that would change several portions of the county's short-term vacation rental home law to support tourism while pushing local rental operators to comply with permit laws. Maui News.

A 2nd Circuit judge Friday granted a preliminary injunction against further work on the 113-unit Ma'alaea Plantation housing subdivision - with the developers announcing after the ruling that they would commission an environmental impact statement as requested by project opponents. Maui News.

Officials in Mayor Alan Arakawa's administration are holding "high-level discussions" with Alexander & Baldwin officials about taking more water out of the Wailoa Ditch system for Upcountry customers as A&B's subsidiary Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. phases out production at the end of the year, Department of Water Supply Director Dave Taylor said. Maui News.

The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education Maui District Office will conduct a community meeting to provide information on school attendance boundaries for Maui Waena Intermediate, ʻĪao Intermediate, Baldwin High and Maui High Schools. Maui Now.

Kauai

Election season has begun and candidate filings are coming in. Three candidates have put their names in the hat for Kauai County Council: Juno-Ann Apalla of Lihue, Matthew Bernabe of Kapaa and incumbent KipuKai Kuali‘i. Garden Island.

Law enforcement and cleanup operations at Kalalau Beach over the past month resulted in dozens of citations, an arrest, and the airlifting of tons of trash from the area. Garden Island.

Lanai

Maui County Council members approved a recommendation Friday to take the Lanai Community Plan update to Lanai for a public hearing March 12. Maui News.

Looking for the most luxurious Lanai experience you can find? The Four Seasons Resort Lanai may have what is the most expensive luxury suite in the state — the rate for its three-bedroom Alii Suite is $21,000 a night. Pacific Business News.

Thursday, February 4, 2016

Gov. Ige to bring back Superferry; economists upbeat, blood quantum could be reduced for Hawaiian homelands; Honolulu lawsuits over Catholic Church, HIV-tainted blood, jail inmates, schools; Maui silversword threatened; Kauai mulls general excise tax hike; Hawaii County Ethics Board filled; Kona coffee grower sues Monsanto over cancer; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii Superferry docked near Oahu in 2008 © 2016 All Hawaii News
Gov. David Ige’s administration is moving ahead with a proposal to revive interisland ferry service in Hawaii, a potentially controversial effort that could even involve the same catamaran vessels that were deployed in the ill-fated “Superferry” initiative that shut down in 2009. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering a bill to reduce the blood-ancestry requirement for Native Hawaiians to receive Hawaiian homesteads from relatives. Right now, Hawaiian homestead beneficiaries can only transfer land to descendants who are at least 25 percent Hawaiian. The bill would lower the requirement to 1/32nd Hawaiian. Associated Press.

Two legislative committees Wednesday advanced identical bills that would strengthen consumer protections against Hawaii physicians who are sanctioned by other states for misconduct or other licensing violations. Star-Advertiser.

A legislative committee has advanced a bill that would again protect financial disclosures of members of the University of Hawaii Board of Regents from public release — a move that would reverse a 2014 law that prompted several regents to resign. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii economists on Wednesday predicted steady economic growth for the rest of the year, but they warned of challenges lying ahead. Associated Press.

Hawaii voters overwhelmingly believe that homelessness is a major problem in the islands — 90 percent of them, to be exact. Only a scant 8 percent say it’s a minor issue. But when it comes to their confidence that state and local leaders are doing what is needed to tackle the crisis, Gov. David Ige and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell get low marks. Civil Beat.

HPV Vaccine Bill for 7th Graders Opposed. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that he is still opposed to Next­Era Energy Inc.’s proposed $4.3 billion purchase of Hawaiian Electric Industries and the state’s use of liquefied natural gas for electrical power generation. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers plan to revisit the state’s 100 percent renewable goal Thursday morning, when the Energy and Environmental Protection Committee hears House Bill 2575.  Civil Beat.

The Hawaiian Electric Industries utilities will be more insulated from the financial risks of their parent company and its affiliates if regulators allow NextEra Energy to buy Hawaii’s privately owned utility — at least according to testimony and filings discussed in hearings before the Public Utilities Commission on Tuesday and Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Nearly a dozen legislators are asking Gov. David Ige not to sign off on a proposed rule change that before the state Department of Health that would ban new cesspools statewide. Civil Beat.

Last month’s weather may have been great for the beach, but the lack of rain made it the driest January on record in several locations in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The state has agreed to a $7.2 million settlement in the case of a former inmate who had all his fingers and both feet amputated after he says jail medical staff failed to diagnose him. Associated Press.

A man’s lawsuit against Blood Bank of Hawaii, the American Red Cross and others says that he became HIV-positive from a blood transfusion during bypass surgery in 2011. Associated Press.

A Catholic church in Kailua and a school in Kalihi are the two locations that generated the most allegations about priests and teachers sexually abusing students decades ago, a Hawaii News Now investigation has revealed.

The mother of a former Koko Head Elementary School student has sued the Department of Education, alleging staffers improperly restrained her autistic son. Hawaii News Now.

When Honolulu police officers face termination for breaking the law or otherwise violating department policies, they often are presented with a choice. Stick out the disciplinary process — which can include criminal trials, administrative hearings and a lengthy union grievance proceeding — or quietly resign. Civil Beat.

Six park attendants are being hired to ensure everyone follows the rules at Ala Moana Regional Park, city officials said Tuesday during an update of improvements underway at Oahu’s busiest beach park. Star-Advertiser.

Developer Forest City Hawaii is offering to build Kakaako Elementary School, where a parking lot is currently located off Pohukaina Street, and right next to a highrise it’s hoping to turn into affordable housing. KHON2.

Commentary: The HART board formally accepted the audit of their June 30, 2015, financial statements at its meeting January 28. During that meeting, I mentioned that their note on “Liquidity Risk” included a statement that the federal government “may” require the return of federal funds if there is a breach of the grant agreement and that this is inconsistent with statements HART has been making. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

After months of canceled meetings, the Hawaii County Board of Ethics is at full strength again, following County Council confirmation Wednesday of two Kona nominees. West Hawaii Today.

The late state Sen. Gil Kahele signed three bills from his hospital bed just hours before his Jan. 26 death — each pertaining to issues near and dear to his heart. Tribune-Herald.

A husband and wife who operated a South Kona coffee farm are suing Monsanto Co., alleging the agricultural biotechnology corporation purposely downplayed carcinogenic properties of glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup herbicide, and are responsible for the woman’s cancer. Tribune-Herald.

State and county officials reiterated Wednesday that they are close to declaring an emergency in response to Hawaii Island’s dengue fever outbreak and provided more details about what that declaration might mean for response efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Costs have climbed for repair work on the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant, with the County Council voting Wednesday to add another $5 million to the $18 million estimated cost of the project. West Hawaii Today.

Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel would remain open — though under a different name — if the state Land Board agrees to transfer its land lease to a new operator next week. Tribune-Herald.

Thirsty pigs are tearing up water lines and coffee fields are layered in dust as portions of West Hawaii look back on the driest January on record. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Lanes, which has sat vacant since May 2014, could soon have a new owner. Lorraine Shin, a Hilo businesswoman, said Wednesday that she has made an offer to buy the building at 777 Kinoole St., and the deal is going through escrow. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

One-day suspensions were ordered for two Maui Police Department officers as part of internal investigations concluded from October to December, police reported. Maui News.

The rare and threatened Haleakala silversword plant on Maui is experiencing its lowest numbers in 45 years, as dry weather trends have reduced rainfall at its mountain habitat. Star-Advertiser.

The number of silverswords in Haleakala Crater has declined 60 percent since the early 1990s - the apparent result of reduced rainfall from climate changes, a study by University of Hawaii-Manoa researchers found. Maui News.

The Department of Public Works will be closing down a portion of Piʻilani Highway in Kīpahulu for geotechnical testing later this month, county officials announced. Maui Now.

The state Department of Health confirmed a case of dengue fever on Maui on Tuesday, only the second on the island since the outbreak began in Hawaii last September. Maui News.

Refuse pickups in Haiku and Paia were not made Tuesday due to staff shortages, the county Department of Environmental Management Solid Waste Division said. Maui News.

Kauai

Raising the general excise tax isn’t the silver bullet that will clear traffic congestion, said councilman Gary Hooser. Garden Island.

Today is the day to get up to speed on the idea of switching to a county manager form of government. The County Council is going to be taking on the issue in a workshop starting at 8:30 this morning at the Historic County Building. According to Council Chairman Mel Rapozo, the workshop will last as long as needed, potentially until 4:30. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative announced Wednesday that the island’s renewable resources met around 90 percent of customers’ electricity demand on four days in January. Star-Advertiser.

A large forest of Koa trees on Kauai once burned by a wildfire is finally getting restored. It's an enormous replanting endeavor that is all being done by hand. Hawaii News Now.

Almost 30 volunteers took to Hikimoe Ridge Wednesday, breathing new life to the once tree-filled forest. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Four Seasons Resort Lana'i, The Lodge at Koele will undergo renovations and reopen later this year, resort officials said Tuesday. Maui News.