Showing posts with label attorney general. Show all posts
Showing posts with label attorney general. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Attorney General subpoenas Maui agencies in fire probe, state minimum wage rising to $14, shorter Skyline OKed for federal funding, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Maui Agencies Subpoenaed After Holding Up Fire Investigation, AG Says. Three Maui County departments were served subpoenas Monday after not meeting the timelines with a state investigation into their response to the Aug. 8 wildfires that killed 100, left 7,500 homeless and caused $5.5 billion in damage.  Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Minimum wage to get boost: Hourly rate will rise to $14 in January under 2022 law. Minimum-wage employees in Hawaii will get a pay hike of nearly 17% to kick off the new year. Tribune-Herald.

State Sen. Maile Shimabukuro, First Elected 20 Years Ago, Won’t Seek Reelection.
Shimabukuro, whose District 22 Senate seat represents Ko Olina, Nanakuli, Maili, Waianae, Makaha and Makua on Oahu, made the announcement Monday. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Plan for shorter Skyline wins OK for federal funding
. A federal agency helping pay for Honolulu’s rail system has agreed to release funding it has been withholding over concerns about past city handling of the grossly delayed and over-budget project. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Water Board adopts rate hike of over 50%.
  The agency’s board of directors Monday voted 5-1, with board member Gene Albano abstaining, to approve a new 5-1/2-year water rate schedule that will see higher rates phased in, with the first 10% increase kicking in Feb. 1 and the next 10% hike to occur July 1. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Honolulu Fire Department official wants to add 2 helicopters, 3 pilots
. The Honolulu Fire Department's aviation manager wants to beef up the department’s ability to fight fires and make rescues. Hawaii Public Radio.

Navy plane in bay has ‘full integrity,’ no sign of fuel leak
. A week after a Navy P-8A slid into Kaneohe Bay while trying to land in rainy weather, the Navy rear admiral in charge of extracting the plane said all of the more than 2,000 gallons of fuel on board had been safely removed, while apologizing for not better updating the public and media. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

The Miske Files: An Officer Gets Caught In The Crossfire. The feds were investigating Mike Miske and the Kealohas at the same time. Sgt. Al Lee ended up in the middle of both. Civil Beat.

Trial Of Officers Charged In Makaha Pursuit Continued To June 3. Four Honolulu police officers are accused of pursuing a car until it crashed and leaving the scene. Civil Beat.

$20,000 worth of fireworks found stashed in 92-year-old woman’s carport.  With New Year’s Eve celebrations right around the corner, illegal fireworks are already a hot commodity — and a growing headache for law enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

$8M demolition of decaying Uncle Billy’s hotel to start
.  The $8 million demolition of the dilapidated former Uncle Billy’s hotel in Hilo is set to commence with asbestos abatement work starting next week. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Community Meeting Set To Re-Envision Waiākea Peninsula. A public meeting to be held Monday, December 4, will gather community input on the Banyan Drive waterfront and other redevelopment projects. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Pohoiki Boat Ramp Dredging Project Permit Application Posted. The latest issue of The Environmental Notice included a Conservation District Use Application, as well as a Coastal Zone Management notice, concerning the Pohoiki Boat ramp dredging project. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Controversial Developer Looming Over West Maui’s Water Conflict. Peter Martin spent decades guzzling water around Lahaina. Then came the fire. Civil Beat.

Mental Health Services For Youth On Maui Receive A Funding Boost. The money will support schools, multiple community partners and nonprofits, but more will be needed. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Lahaina, Kula disaster recovery community update meetings canceled this week due to kona low forecast. The weekly Disaster Recovery Community Update Meetings for Kula residents at 6 p.m. Tuesdays and for Lahaina residents at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays are canceled this week due to the kona low weather forecast. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i officials urge residents to be vigilant as severe weather may occur starting Tuesday. County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to be vigilant due to potential severe weather conditions starting Tuesday and continuing through Thursday. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

Hawaii toxic emissions drop, bill hamstrings AG's investigations of nonprofits, Honolulu seeks manager for Haiku Stairs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Chinatown in Honolulu ©2020 All Hawaii News

Chinatown merchants blame fears over coronavirus for drastic decline in business. Businesses in Honolulu’s Chinatown are reporting a drastic drop in sales ― as Chinatowns across the U.S. have turned into virtual ghost towns because of irrational fears of infection. Hawaii News Now.

35 in Hawaii under ‘self-quarantine’ for coronavirus, 1 under mandatory quarantine. The number of individuals in Hawaii under quarantine for the coronavirus jumped overnight to 36 — 35 under ‘self-quarantine’ and a man who is being isolated on the base at Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

EPA: Hawaii Toxic Releases Dropped In 2018. Hawaii said “aloha” to a significant amount of chemicals related to the petroleum sector. Civil Beat.

Is An $868,000 Home Affordable? Hawaii Senators Say No. Advocates voiced forceful opposition to a so-called affordable housing bill they say is far from affordable. Civil Beat.

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Lawmakers Limit Scope Of Bill Banning AG’s Probe Of Hawaiian Nonprofit. Amendments would prohibit the attorney general from investigating KAHEA and other nonprofits if the investigation would create a conflict of interest. Civil Beat.

Bill Will Prohibit Investigation Of Non Profits Linked To Civil Disobedience. The Hawaiʻi State Senate Committee on Hawaiian Affairs advanced Senate Bill 42 SD 1 on Tuesday after hearing from both sides of the issue. Big Island Video News.

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Senate’s New Sexual Harassment Policy Hailed As ‘Good Step’. The updated guide will apply to third parties who work with Hawaii lawmakers, not just senators and staff. Civil Beat.

Bill: No Relieving Oneself Publicly In Business Districts. Urinating or defecating near Hawaii hotels and banks or in parking lots and plazas would be subject to a penalty. Civil Beat.

Remote Legislative Access Bill Heads to Senate Floor. A top priority since he resumed office this term, Big Island Rep. David Tarnas has introduced a bill to provide remote access for members of the public who wish to testify and otherwise participate in the state legislative process. Big Island Now.

Bill to permit edible cannabis products advances. A key Senate committee gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a bill authorizing the sale of edible medical cannabis products in Hawaii, although it likely would be many months before those products are legally available here even if the bill passes. Star-Advertiser.

Proposal would allow lower fines for traffic citations if driver can’t pay. According to a proposal, some drivers may not be able to afford to pay the citation. KHON2.

Gabbard Staying In The Race Despite Finishing Far Behind In New Hampshire. The Hawaii congresswoman invested a lot of resources in New Hampshire with hopes of outperforming the polls and keeping her struggling campaign afloat. Civil Beat.

Ship Operator Fined $1.75M For Unlawful Bilge Dumping. Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (Singapore) PTE LTD. (Bernard), a vessel operating company, pleaded guilty today in federal court to one count of maintaining false and incomplete records relating to the discharge of bilge waste from the tank vessel “Topaz Express,” a felony of the Act to Prevent Pollution from ships. Maui News.

A Texas-based contractor was slapped with a hefty fine after violating labor standards. The U.S. Department of Labor says Steve Hoegger and Associates violated the Fair Labor Standards act when it did not properly identify workers as independent contractors during renovation work at the Marriott Koolina Hotel, and the Marriott Maui Ocean Club Hotel. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu
NOAA To Homeport New Oceanographic Ship In Honolulu. Its mission will include general research and exploration of marine life, and climate and ocean ecosystem studies. Civil Beat.

Caldwell: 'No Explanation' For Rail Delays On Dillingham Boulevard. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is growing increasingly impatient with delays in the city's rail project, citing holdups in awarding the final phase of the system's construction contract and work along Dillingham Boulevard. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Storm Water Utility may hike taxes or fees on Oahu. Hold onto your wallets. A whole new water utility is in the works, and it could cost Oahu residents, businesses and even the state and federal government dearly. KHON2.

Investors sue developer of 2 planned Honolulu condo towers. The developer of two planned condominium towers near a Walmart store in the Ala Moana area is facing multiple lawsuits from investors who allege their money has been misused. Star-Advertiser.

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Dillingham Airfield a hot topic at North Shore town hall meeting. More than 300 people jammed into Waialua Elementary School’s cafeteria and flowed out its doors Tuesday evening at a town hall meeting to air a lot of complaints about the state’s decision to terminate its lease at Dillingham Airfield. Star-Advertiser.

The future of Dillingham Airfield remains up in the air. Oahu’s North Shore community wants a compromise over the Mokuleia airfield. Hawaii News Now.

North Shore residents, representatives express displeasure with DOT Dillingham decision. It was a packed house tonight in Waialua as many vented their anger and frustration about the future of Dillingham Airfield. KHON2.

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Nonprofit group says it is ready to manage Haiku Stairs. The president of Friends of Ha‘iku Stairs said the nonprofit intends to put in a response to the city’s request for proposals for a group to repair, operate and manage the controversial hiking area. Star-Advertiser.

City Taking Step Toward Managing, Charging Fees To Use Haiku Stairs. City and County of Honolulu officials are seeking information from organizations that may be interested in managing and operating a fee-based concession to use Haiku Stairs. Hawaii Public Radio.

City looks for organization that could restore, operate Haiku Stairs. The city is looking for an organization that would provide managed, fee-based access to Haiku Stairs. Hawaii News Now.

City considering managed access to Haiku Stairs. The City and County of Honolulu is considering managed access to the Haiku Stairs a.k.a “Stairway to Heaven”. KHON2.

City seeks help in management of 'Stairway to Heaven'. The City today expressed interest in finding someone to help run the Ha'iku Stairs for a fixed period of time. KITV4.

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HPU says restaurants interested in Hooters, Gordon Biersch spaces. Hawaii Pacific University said Tuesday it has already received interest in two large anchor spaces at Aloha Tower Marketplace following the recent closures of Hooters and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Open prosecutor’s office draws candidate interest. Candidates are coming forward to fill the upcoming void in the Office of the County Prosecutor that will be left as Prosecutor Mitch Roth is running for mayor. West Hawaii Today.

HMC seeks expansion of cancer-treatment facility. Hilo Medical Center is hoping to expand its Hawaii Pacific Oncology Center and construct a rural and telehealth center in an effort to offer more care closer to home. Tribune-Herald.

12-bed inpatient facility being considered for old Kona courthouse. Health officials are considering a 12-bed inpatient facility at the old Kona courthouse in an effort to help address mental health and substance abuse issues in the community. West Hawaii Today.

Final EA posted for Hilo quarry project. The state Department of Health’s Office of Environmental Quality Control has found no significant environmental impacts will arise from the development of a proposed rock quarry near the Hilo landfill. Tribune-Herald.

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Outrigger to acquire Keauhou resort. Sheraton Kona Resort &Spa at Keauhou Bay will be rebranded as an Outrigger Resort later this spring. West Hawaii Today.

Outrigger Hospitality Group’s continues growth. Outrigger Hospitality Group plans to buy the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay on the Big Island as part of an ambitious growth plan that could nearly double the company in five years. Star-Advertiser.

Outrigger to Acquire the Sheraton. On Tuesday, Outrigger Hospitality Group announced it has signed a purchase sale agreement to acquire ownership of the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay. Big Island Now.

Outrigger announces plan to acquire, modernize Hawaii Island resort. Outrigger Hospitality Group plans to acquire the 509-room Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay on Hawaii Island, the company announced Tuesday. Outrigger has signed a purchase and sale agreement, and the transaction is expected to close in mid-April. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Repeat contenders eyeing runs for County Council seats. Candidates pull nomination papers for council, state Legislature posts. Maui News.

Groups file lawsuit to challenge power of county agency. Two community groups have filed a lawsuit challenging the powers of a county agency that oversees the zoning and development rules of Wailuku town. Maui News.


Kauai

Public hearing on sunshine markets. The Office of Economic Development is announcing that a public hearing is set for Feb. 24 on proposed amendments to the Sunshine Market rules for the County of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Sewer system inspection work starts Feb. 18. Department of Public Works Wastewater Management Division’s contractor will be performing closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspections on the Lihu‘e sewer collection system from Feb. 18 through the third week of March, weather permitting. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai closer to having no new short-term rentals. Molokai is one step closer to having no short-term rentals on the island with the Maui County Council passing on first reading a bill to establish a zero permit cap. Maui News.

Friday, January 4, 2019

Ige appoints Connors as attorney general, Honolulu officer cooperating with feds in police corruption case, Maui's new mayor takes office, Big Island water bottling plant unpopular, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Governor's Office
Attorney General appointee Clare Connors with Gov. David Ige PC:Governor's Office
Gov. David Ige has appointed Clare Connors, a prominent local attorney and experienced litigator, to serve as Hawaii’s next attorney general, replacing Russell Suzuki. Star-Advertiser.

Governor’s pick for attorney general is longtime litigator — who sometimes targeted state. Hawaii News Now.

Former assistant U.S. attorney picked to be Hawaii's new attorney general. KHON2.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige Thursday appointed Clare Connors as the state’s new attorney general. Pacific Business News.

Governor David Ige today announced the appointment of Clare Connors to be the attorney general of the State of Hawaii, subject to Senate confirmation. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige press release on appointment of Clare Connors as attorney general can be found here.

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‘I Feel The Energy’: Ed Case Returns To Congress. The Hawaii congressman is back in office after more than a decade. But things are very different. Civil Beat.

A key lawmaker Thursday accused the state Department of Education of lying about the size of the statewide backlog of repair and maintenance projects at Hawaii public schools. The DOE told lawmakers in January 2018 that the school repair and maintenance backlog was $293 million as of 2017, which was a significant drop from $392 million in 2010. However, later in the year DOE notified some lawmakers that the true backlog was $868 million. Star-Advertiser.

If You Thought Legislature Would Bury The Hatchet With Ige, Think Again. The House Finance Committee chair questions the trustworthiness and organizational structure of the governor’s administration. Civil Beat.

43 pedestrians died on Hawaii roadways in 2018. That’s more than the number killed in vehicles. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii cannabis advocates hope to work with state to set rules for hemp. While the federal government did pass the Farm Bill on December 20 making hemp and its products legal, there's still some confusion over how the state should set rules for this crop. KITV.

There’s a high probability an El Nino will form and persist through the winter and spring, bringing with it threats to corals and farming concerns as well as an increased risk of wildfires. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu-based electric utility Hawaiian Electric Cos. Thursday said it submitted the contracts for seven new solar-plus-storage projects across its service territory to the state Public Utilities Commission for review. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A Honolulu officer charged in the corruption case targeting Honolulu’s former police chief and his wife plans to change his plea to guilty. It’s a major development that could prove pivotal to prosecutors. Hawaii News Now.

One of the police officers indicted in a public corruption case involving former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine, has indicated he wants to change his plea. KHON2.

A Honolulu police sergeant charged in a corruption-related investigation targeting the department’s former chief and his former prosecutor wife is pleading guilty. Star-Advertiser.

The attorney for the Big Island firefighter wrapped up in the Kealoha conspiracy case said recent news stories about his client and the explicit messages he reportedly sent Katherine Kealoha are "salacious" and "irrelevant." KITV.

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A Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board committee Thursday recommended approval of a $7.5 million change order to settle a delay claim made by the company hired to build the rail project’s three Waipahu stations. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Is Short On Cops — And Seattle Is Poaching. Mainland police departments are making it easy for rookie and veteran officers to relocate. With 246 vacancies, the HPD may start doing the same. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council concerned after multiple recruits fired from Honolulu Fire Department. KHON2.

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The City and County of Honolulu is expanding its park security initiative to Windward Oahu and the North Shore. Starting Friday, crews will add locks to parking lots and comfort stations at 18 parks in an effort to prevent vandalism. Hawaii News Now.

Starting tonight, 59 city parks will be locked at night to curtail vandalism and illegal homeless activity. Star-Advertiser.

In the continuing effort to secure park facilities island-wide, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is expanding its securing parks initiative to District IV, including Windward Oahu and the North Shore (from Makapuu to Mokuleia). KHON2.

City expands securing parks initiative to 18 more parks. The initiative began in April 2018 with 25 parks in the urban Honolulu area. KITV.

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The president and CEO of Damien Memorial School is out after the institution’s owners cited conflicts in leadership style. Hawaii News Now.

Damien Memorial School announced today the appointment of Brother Brian M. Walsh to serve as president, replacing Wes Porter, who was the school’s leader the past 2-1/2 years. Star-Advertiser.

Sixth Howard Hughes condo goes on sale. The Koula condo tower will have 565 units and sit adjacent to the new Victoria Ward Park, where a pop-up LED flower garden now resides, on Auahi Street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Windward Planning Commission postponed action on a proposed bottling plant near Wailoa River State Recreation Area to a future meeting, but that didn’t stop dozens of Big Island residents from testifying against it during the panel’s Thursday meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Water protectors, environmentalists, and supporters of the new organization, Extinction Rebellion, spoke out against an application for a Special Management Area Use Permit to develop a potable water well and bottling facility in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is being partially staffed during the federal government shutdown thanks to a little help from its friends. Tribune-Herald.

Retired Hawaii physician Charman J. Akina has donated 135 acres of land in South Kona to The Nature Conservancy that will provide habitat for rare native wildlife and plants. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

In his first day on the job, new Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino went to work announcing that landfills will once again open on Sundays and that his office will convene groups addressing Native Hawaiian culture and economic diversity and bringing together environmentalists and the hospitality industry. Maui News.

Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino took the oath of office on Wednesday morning from 2nd Circuit Chief Judge Joseph Cardoza, with First Lady Joycelyn Victorino, other family members, Maui County Council members and dignitaries looking on. Maui Now.

The new Maui County Council elected Kelly King as chairwoman, Keani Rawlins-Fernandez as vice chairwoman and Tasha Kama as presiding officer pro tempore during the council’s first meeting of the term on Wednesday. Maui News.

Featuring several new faces and a majority of women for the first time, the Maui County Council officially took office on Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed a sixth supplementary emergency proclamation on Thursday for the County of Kauai, extending the emergency relief period for damages sustained during the April flooding. Garden Island.

Hawaii officials are planning to issue additional permits and extend the six-month trial period of pig hunting in a mountain area on Kauai. Associated Press.

Chipper Wichman, who has served as a backbone for the National Tropical Botanical Garden for 15 years, is turning over the position of chief executive officer and director to someone else. Garden Island.


Friday, March 30, 2018

Hawaii Legislature passes assisted suicide bill, Senate committee advances pared down budget, top lawmakers endorse Hanabusa, medical marijuana bill would prevent firing of those testing positive, not guilty pleas in Kealoha trial, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Ohia lehua captures the raindrops ©2018 All Hawaii News
State officials' message to Merrie Monarch Festival goers: Don't take the Ohia. Hawaii News Now.

A bill to legalize medically assisted death for terminally ill patients now awaits Gov. David Ige’s signature to become law after the state Senate today passed the measure. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Legislature Passes Medical Aid In Dying. The bill cleared its final hurdle in the Senate by a wide margin and is now headed to the governor for his signature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers approved legislation Thursday that would make it the latest liberal-leaning state to legalize medically assisted suicide. Associated Press.

Medical aid-in-dying passes Senate, heads to governor. KHON2.

The Hawaii Senate on Thursday voted 23-2 to pass House Bill 2739 titled “Our Care, Our Choice Act.” Maui Now.

Sen. Breene Harimoto, D, Pearl City, Aiea, Halawa, has been diagnosed with lung cancer. He made the announcement Thursday on the Senate floor at the State Capitol as he cast his vote against "Our Care, Our Choice," Hawaii's medical-aid-in-dying bill. KHON2.

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Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairman Donovan Dela Cruz criticized Gov. David Ige’s proposed budget for next year as an example of “overspending” as Dela Cruz released his own budget proposal Thursday totaling $14.3 billion. Star-Advertiser.

Top leaders at the Hawaii State Legislature are throwing the full power of their legislative offices behind Colleen Hanabusa in her bid to unseat David Ige for the governor’s office. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Senate confirmed Russell Suzuki as Hawaii attorney general on Thursday via unanimous vote. Hawaii News Now.

A bill to allow out-of-state marijuana patients to buy their medicine at local dispensaries and prohibit employers from firing workers with cannabis cards who test positive for the drug passed out of a key committee Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Medical marijuana cardholders from out of state may soon be able to purchase the drug in Hawaii, if a bill at the state Legislature continues to move forward. Pacific Business News.

After Nearly 20 Years, Legislature Rethinks Payday Lending. The state’s growing demand for payday loans is no surprise given the high cost of living in the islands. But with interest rates as high as 459 percent, lawmakers are demanding greater regulation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s visitor industry tries to improve nuclear response. It’s possible that Hawaii’s visitor industry could achieve its seventh record-setting year in a row in 2018, provided that the state doesn’t fall victim to a natural or man-made disaster like a nuclear attack. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s hotel industry hosted an emergency preparedness workshop today as a follow-up to the state’s false missile alert earlier this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Shipping Company Prepares for the Next Disaster. Hawaii Public Radio.

In light of evolving natural resource concerns and the needs of managers and people, the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife is proposing updates to rules regulating activities within Hawaii’s Forest Reserve System. DOFAW is now inviting input and comments. Information hearings will be held across the state in April. Big Island Now.

Outrigger Hotels and Resorts said Thursday it has named Jeff Wagoner to be its new president and chief executive officer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines has relinquished its usual top position as the most punctual carrier in the country. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kealohas, Accused Cops Plead Not Guilty To Newest Charges. Federal prosecutors added three new charges in the corruption case involving the former police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife. Civil Beat.

'We are not guilty': Ex-police chief says he looks forward to day in court. Hawaii News Now.

"We plead not guilty because we are not guilty," said former Honolulu Police Chief, Louis Kealoha, moments after he entered a not guilty plea in federal court Thursday. KITV.

Retired police chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine were back in federal court this morning to answer to more charges. They pled not guilty. KHON2.

HECO: More Than Half Of Us Will Be Driving Electric Vehicles By 2045. The state’s largest power utility is preparing for a surge in ownership of EVs during the next 30 years. Civil Beat.

Oahu led all Islands in tourism gains in February as total visitor spending surged nearly 13 percent to $1.52 billion, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

The Lanikai Pillbox hiking trail will remain open after all, the state said in a news release today. Star-Advertiser.

Fleetwood Mac bassist John McVie has sold his Honolulu home for $5.4 million, according to Mansion Global. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Council wants voters to weigh in on future raises. A charter amendment is unnecessary, Salary Commission officials told the County Council on Wednesday, because the commission is changing its administrative rules to add more transparency to the way it doles out raises.  West Hawaii Today.

The head of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands said a group that started an “Aloha Safety Checkpoint” on beneficiary lands along the Maunakea Access Road this week did so without permission. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Department of Water Supply took the first step toward augmenting its existing staff by proposing the addition of 19 new positions at the Water Board’s monthly meeting Tuesday in Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kim: Hilo Farmers Market Info “Wrong And Misleading”. Big Island Video News.

A bill that would take $30,000 from the Geothermal Relocation and Community Fund and in order to provide access to computers and Wi-Fi at the Pahoa Community Center was panned by testifiers on Wednesday before the council voted 6-3 to advance the measure to second reading. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee Chairman Riki Hokama did not get specific on projects or budget items he would support or object to in Mayor Alan Arakawa’s proposed $820 million fiscal 2019 budget, but he said the council should look into completing projects already on the books, as well as filling current staff vacancies, before creating new jobs and craft a budget allowing for flexibility for a new administration. Maui News.

Students from a number of schools walked out of class in a show of resistance against the placement of the state flag. One of the biggest protests happened on Maui at Hana High School, which also attracted members of the community. KITV.

Haiku residents were opposed overwhelmingly to a new zip-line operation at a community meeting Wednesday night called by its developer who already has racked up more than a half a million dollars in fines running another zip line in the region. Maui News.

Longer Stays on Maui Boost Visitor Spending in February. Maui Now.

Renovation begins on Waiehu Municipal Golf Course’s back nine greens starting April 16, the County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation announced Thursday. Maui Now.

Kauai

Bus stop ‘angel’ arrested. For more than a year, El Aina Danine lived at the bus stop fronting the Kapaa Neighborhood Center. She slept there. She ate there. She read there. She fed chickens there. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Hawaii students, Gov. Ige, join nationwide school walkout, medically assisted death up for Friday hearing, pesticides found in water, Russell Suzuki named attorney general, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Jim Albertini
Keaau High School students remember fallen PC:Jim Albertini
Thousands of students at campuses across Hawaii walked out of their classrooms at 10 a.m. Wednesday in solidarity with their peers nationwide who are staging 17-minute walkouts as a tribute to the 17 victims of the Valentine’s Day shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland, Fla. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Students Join Walkouts In Wake Of School Shootings. On campuses across the islands, youths gather to honor the victims of the Florida massacre and call for action on gun control. Civil Beat.

Local Students Walkout in Support of Shooting Victims. Hawaii Public Radio.

'I don't want to be scared': Hawaii students take part in National School Walkout. KHON2.

Students and teachers across the state joined thousands across the country in National School Walkout Day in an effort to put a stop to gun violence. KITV.

PHOTOS: Hawaii students participate in National Walkout Day. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige joined students at his alma mater, Pearl City High School, this morning, Wednesday, March 14, 2018, to support their initiative to honor each of the 17 students and teachers who lost their lives at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on Feb. 14. Big Island Now.

East Hawaii students join peers nationwide and walk out in protest against gun violence. Tribune-Herald.

In the wake of a shooting that killed 17 people at a Florida high school — and later threats to their own school — a handful of students at Konawaena High School looked to their own campus for an opportunity to ensure students feel safe in their classrooms. West Hawaii Today.

A nation-wide student-led demontration against school violence took place Wednesday and included many schools on the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Kapaa High students call for gun reform. Garden Island.

Island School uses nationwide movement to educate, make a difference. Garden Island.

Social media drives student movement. As schools across the nation staged 17-minute walkouts for #nationalwalkoutday in tribute to the 17 victims of the Valentine’s Day shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland, Fla., Hawaii became part of the social media dialogue with its own hashtags: #NeverAgainHI and #EnoughIsEnoughHI. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) spoke on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, in support of H.R.4909, the Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Act—legislation she has co-sponsored that would increase federal funding for schools in Hawaii and across the country to strengthen school violence prevention measures. Big Island Now.

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The public once again will have a chance to testify Friday morning on a bill to allow physicians to prescribe lethal doses of medication at the request of terminally ill patients. Star-Advertiser.

The State Legislative Auditor briefed a Senate Committee on the results of an audit of the Public Utilities Commission completed in February. Hawaii Public Radio.

State releases heavily redacted recording of HI-EMA's missile mistake test. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency on Wednesday released a heavily redacted portion of the 24-second internal test message that triggered the state's missile alert mistake on January 13, 2018. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige has appointed veteran government lawyer Russell Suzuki as Hawaii’s attorney general. Suzuki has been acting attorney general since Feb. 2, when former Attorney General Doug Chin resigned to become lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has appointed Russell Suzuki to serve as the state attorney general. KHON2.

New Revenue Forecast Means $50 Million More For State Budget. The Council on Revenues projects 5.3 percent general fund growth for the current fiscal year and 4.5 percent next year. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Council on Revenues raised its projection for the growth of the state’s general fund from 4.5 percent to 5.3 percent during its quarterly meeting on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Could food cause Hawaii's high cancer rates? Hawaii lawmakers are debating whether the state should pay for research to see if that is the reason behind Hawaii's nation leading rates of stomach and intestinal cancers. KITV.

Data collected during an initial six-month period of monitoring for pesticides in surface water on Kauai and Oahu found “trace levels” in most detections. Garden Island.

Plate lunches statewide will have a new look if a bill banning polystyrene becomes law. Senate Bill 2498 not only seeks to ban the containers for food, but also drinks. KHON2.

State eases rules on required TB tests. Most Hawaii residents will no longer be required to get a tuberculosis skin test when starting a new job or school. Star-Advertiser.

Family of Seth Rich sues Fox News, former Hawaii reporter Malia Zimmerman over retracted article. New York Times.

Hawaii chefs, restaurants once again miss the cut for James Beard finals. Despite seven Hawaii individuals and restaurants making the semifinals of the James Beard Foundation award, none made the finals, continuing a more than decade-long trend. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii ranked fourth in the nation for green car sales in 2017. The percent of green vehicles -- hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles--sold was 4.2 percent in Hawaii, higher than the 2.6 percent national average, according to iSeeCars, an automotive research firm. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Divide among Council members gets wider. The ill feelings between several members of the Hono­lulu City Council reached new heights Wednesday as Councilwoman Kymberly Pine reasserted that she and the other two female Council members have not received proper credit for their work under the leadership of Chairman Ron Menor and Vice Chairman Ikaika Anderson. Star-Advertiser.

Feds Say UH Manoa Overcharged Disabled Dorm Residents. The university has refunded about $100,000 to more than 40 students to resolve a federal complaint. Civil Beat.

Ige: State Looking For Land To Relocate Waianae Encampment. The governor contradicts state officials who last week announced an imminent sweep and a possible federal grant to build an education center. Civil Beat.

The leader of one of Oahu’s largest homeless encampments said Gov. David Ige on Tuesday promised her “no sweep” but offered no details on the future of the encampment known as Puuhonua o Waianae, located next to the Waianae Small Boat Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Closure of Oahu Toys R Us stores pending. Star-Advertiser.

Ulupono invests $3 million in energy efficiency firm. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

An infusion of state money is helping kick start the transformation of a vacant lot at the corner of Kealakehe Parkway and Ane Keohokalole Highway into a homeless village. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources took a step toward demolishing the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel by issuing a “request for interest” for developers Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

State to developers: Tear down this building to get long-term land lease. Hawaii News Now.

Banyan Drive may see a new hotel as the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Land Division, has issued a Request for Interest (RFI) relating to the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel site, more recently known as the Pagoda Hilo Bay Hotel, located in Hilo. Big Island Now.

Maui

Project to rid east Maui of invasive cattle raises concerns after dead cows left to rot. Hawaii News Now.

The American Red Cross opened a shelter at Hana High School today, March 14, 2018 at 4:30 p.m. due to area flooding. Maui Now.

Kauai

‘Responsible Tourism’ talk Thursday. The former director general of the Icelandic Tourist Board will share lessons learned from tourism impacts to the Nordic island nation in a presentation on Kauai Thursday. Garden Island.

Kauai bird recovery project seeks to eradicate bird illness in the islands. The Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project is gearing up in the fight against avian malaria. Hawaii News Now.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Long week ahead for Hawaii Legislature, state to pay Turtle Bay to conserve North Shore land, attorney general wants more money, Pacific Biodiesel leaves Maui, Hawaii County plans Mauna Kea park takeover, tipping fees to rise on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii House of Representatives
Hawaii lawmakers are preparing for an onslaught of bills to move through their chambers this week, in advance of a legislative deadline to pass bills out of the second chamber. Associated Press.

A House committee approved a bill to outlaw eating cats and dogs in Hawaii, a measure supported by animal lovers who lobbied lawmakers with their pets. Associated Press.

Hawaii Attorney General David Louie asked the Legislature in December to give his office an extra $5.3 million for fiscal 2015, which starts July 1. But the latest draft of the budget, which lawmakers will finalize over the next few weeks, adds only $1.5 million. Civil Beat.

Rep. Bob McDermott is troubled about new classroom materials that are being tested out by some Hawaii public school teachers. The vocal, socially conservative Ewa Beach lawmaker recently wrote a memo to Hawaii Department of Education Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi requesting that the department prohibit teachers from using any materials or lesson plans from the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Teaching Tolerance program in their classrooms. Civil Beat.

With affordable-housing and homelessness problems persisting, measures aimed at promoting affordable-housing construction, assisting the Hawaii Public Housing Authority with repair and maintenance, encouraging Housing First programs and funding the up-and-coming concept of micro-apartments continue to move through the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

A measure that would have allowed rock climbers to resume their sport has been amended, catching outdoor enthusiasts by surprise. Hawaii News Now.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is canvassing communities in an effort to expand a roll of qualified Native Hawaiians interested in participating in their own government. Associated  Press.

Charles Djou, a Republican who served six months in Congress in 2010 after winning a special three-way election, has launched a campaign to reclaim his District 1 Congressional Seat. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

Time is running out for the state and the owners of Turtle Bay Resort to decide how much Hawaii should pay the hotel to conserve some of the land it owns on Oahu's North Shore. Civil Beat.

City officials are promising at least one public hearing in the coming weeks on rules governing how food trucks can operate in Hono­lulu's Capitol Special District under a two-year pilot program that became law last week. Star-Advertiser.

Selling rail. Yes, half of the audience at this public meeting were HART employees. Hawaii Independent.

Tuition at three of Hawaii's largest private schools — ‘Iolani School, Mid-Pacific Institute and Punahou School — will hit the $20,000 mark for the first time next school year as most schools plan hikes of between 3 percent and 7 percent. Star-Advertiser.

They were small, but price gains achieved by Oahu's housing market last month continued a rising trend reaching further into its third year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County will be able to improve and maintain its portion of the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area without a big budget increase or neglecting other county parks, officials assured the County Council Finance Committee on Friday. West Hawaii Today.

A bill establishing a temporary working group to help the state acquire lands in Waipio Valley was passed by the state House committees on finance Wednesday with amendments. Tribune-Herald.

Whether residents and business owners think it’s a good idea or not to limit commercial use of the ocean, they appear to agree on one thing — a package of proposed rules governing commercial use is convoluted and confusing. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui businesswoman and former vice chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Maui Del Rosario has been appointed the party chairwoman of the newly formed Hawaii Independent Party. Maui News.

Pacific Biodiesel has eliminated two employee positions and closed its biodiesel production plant at the Central Maui Landfill in Puunene, according to an announcement Friday from the pioneering Maui alternative fuel company. Maui News.

Sales of Maui condominiums soared by 31 percent last month, while prices of both condos and single-family homes in Maui County increased by double digits in March, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Businesses owners may soon be paying more to dump or haul their waste into County of Kauai landfills. That’s if the Kauai County Council chooses one of two options before it to raise the landfill tipping fee. Garden Island.

A Kauai councilman who sued the county for claims his civil rights were violated for going against political foes agreed to settle the lawsuit for $290,000. Associated Press.

Challenging times, state Department of Transportation consultants say, lie ahead for Kauai. The Garden Isle is expected to face a nearly $2.2 billion shortfall in transportation project funds at a time when it will also face a significant population and economic boom. Garden Island.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Hawaii election snafu prompts investigation, firing, defamation lawsuit tossed against Hawaii County officials, Kauai county manager to cooperate in mayor gas card theft case, HECO sets hearings on electric grid, Oahu school roof collapse prompts statewide inspections, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2012 All Hawaii News, all rights reserved
Hawaii election officials Lori Tomcyzk and Scott Nago (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
Saying ballot shortages at dozens of voting sites on election day "eroded public confidence," Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Monday he wants Hawaii elections to be conducted entirely by mail. Star-Advertiser.

Lori Tomczyk, a long-time state election section chief, is taking the fall for Oahu's ballot shortages on Election Day, and resigned at her boss' request earlier this month. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Monday he will be proposing a measure in January to move our state toward 100 percent mail-in voting.  He says this has been effective in other parts of the country. KITV4.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Monday he wants Hawaii to move toward 100 percent mail-in voting, following the lead of two other states, Oregon and Washington.  It's a move supported by state lawmakers. Hawaii News Now.

Frustrated over election day foul-ups, Gov. Neil Abercrombie is putting his administration's support behind converting the state's voting system to an all-mail-in and electronic voting system by 2014. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has asked his appointed attorney general, David Louie, to investigate problems that arose during the November 6 General Election on Oahu, saying "the handling of election operations raises legitimate concerns." Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie says his administration will propose voting entirely by mail in the wake of snafus during both the Primary and General Elections this year. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced his support for mail-in voting Monday as he criticized ballot shortages during the Nov. 6 general election. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's administration has signaled that the biennial budget it submits to the Hawaii Legislature in December will assume Congress finds a way to fix the sequestration cuts set to take effect at the end of the year.Civil Beat.

The tsunami warning buoys that ring the Pacific and alert Hawaii and others to impending tidal waves could lose $1 million in funding if federal budget cuts take effect as proposed. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has scheduled a series of meetings around the state starting today to gather public comment as it considers the best mix of energy resources and efficiency measures to meet demand for the electricity it produces. Star-Advertiser.

A proposed bill that would mandate the labeling of transgenic food in Hawaii could die in Honolulu Hale without reaching the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

State and federal officials are reminding the public to report any Hawaiian monk seals in distress after one came close to dying from a fishhook. Star-Advertiser.

Cyber Monday, typically the largest annual online shopping day, proved profitable for many Hawaii retailers. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for November 27. Associated Press.

Oahu

The state will conduct inspections of roofs at schools, designated disaster shelters and other state facilities following Friday's roof collapse at the Farrington High School auditorium. Star-Advertiser.

Structural engineers are trying to figure out what caused the Farrington High School roof to collapse and the state plans to make precautions to prevent another accident. Hawaii News Now.

The state is poised to spend $13 million on 1,750 acres of agricultural land in a plan to boost farm production and food security. But obstacles remain to making the farming experiment on central Oahu lands owned by the George Galbraith Estate a success. Civil Beat.

Should public restrooms in Waikiki remain open around the clock? The Honolulu City Council will take up the issue during a meeting on Tuesday. KHON2.

Federal agent Christopher Deedy “appeared intoxicated and was slurring his words” when he fatally shot Kollin Elderts during an altercation last year inside a Waikiki fast food restaurant, according to prosecutors. Hawaii Reporter.

Downtown Honolulu's Class A office towers recorded nearly 28,000 square feet of new tenancy in the third quarter, as businesses moved in a "flight to quality," according to a new report by Hawaii Commercial Real Estate. Pacific Business News.

Christmas arrived early for an Oahu tree farm with a jump in sales in the wake of pest problems with tree shipments from the Pacific Northwest.Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
A 3rd Circuit Court judge on Monday threw out a defamation lawsuit against Hawaii County, County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong and County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi. West Hawaii Today.

Members of the Mauna Lani Resort Association are asking 3rd Circuit Court Judge Elizabeth Strance for an injunction against DW Aina Lea until the developer can get a more complete environmental impact statement finished and accepted. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi may have a new managing director when his administration takes office next Monday. Big Island Now.

Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann can tick off a number of accomplishments during his eight-year tenure, but he’s had his share of regrets, as well. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New Maui Bus routes for Upcountry and the University of Hawaii's planned solar telescope project for Haleakala are on Wednesday's community meeting agenda of the Kula Community Association. Maui News.

A 51-year-old Maui resident is the Hawaii distributor for EZ-Access ramps, a Washington state manufacturer of portable aluminum ramps that can be placed over steps to grant on-demand wheelchair access. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai county manager indicted on an accessory to theft case involving the mayor’s gas card will make her initial appearance in 5th Circuit Court today with Chief Judge Randal Valenciano presiding. Garden Island.

The Kauai county’s Division of Purchasing started its move back into its original office space in the Pi‘ikoi Building Monday. Garden Island.

Monday, July 30, 2012

Neighbor Island newspapers endorse Case for U.S. Senate, Honolulu voters oppose rail, Big Island elections office in cross-hairs, Marines won't up training on Molokai, teachers squabble over contract, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2012 All Hawaii News
Ed Case, Audrey Case (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
West Hawaii Today endorses Ed Case for U.S. Senate. West Hawaii Today.

Maui News endorses Ed Case for U.S. Senate. Maui News.
Mazie Hirono

Voters on five islands will be able to cast ballots before the Aug. 11 primary election at walk-in voting sites that open today. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann holds a 43 percent-to-33 percent lead over City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard in the Demo­cratic primary for the U.S. House 2nd District seat, the latest Hawaii Poll shows. Star-Advertiser.

With less than two weeks before the primary election, the poll results are in for both congressional districts of the U.S. House. Hawaii News Now.

Call them Generation Dan — a crop of leaders that have been waiting in the wings until either Daniel K. Inouye or Daniel Akaka leave office. Civil Beat.

Wednesday is the last day for noncandidate committees and corporations to file their fundraising and expenditure reports covering the first seven months of 2012. Civil Beat.

The chairman of Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s political campaign is running a “public-private partnership” with Abercrombie’s office that is soliciting $1.3 million from health care companies for what the governor calls the “Hawaii Healthcare Transformation Initiative.” Hawaii Reporter.

A Hawaii island kiawe forest, a Wai­ma­nalo golf course and farmland on the Ewa Plain are the first pursuits of a quasi-public state agency created last year to optimize the use of state lands and revenue from them. Star-Advertiser.

The new school year starts on Monday and teachers will be heading back to their classrooms without a new contract. Hawaii News Now.

Chief negotiator Neil Dietz delivered another rejection to Hawaii State Teachers Association President Wil Okabe in a letter Wednesday. Civil Beat.

The state is proposing to overhaul its accountability system for schools, putting less weight on the results of a single annual test and instead using multiple measures — from the year-to-year academic growth of students to graduation rates — to determine how schools are progressing. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers gave the Board of Education a direct order last year: Monitor the Hawaii Department of Education for compliance with rules governing bullying and establish reporting requirements. Civil Beat.

A controversial new rule that requires boat operators to complete a safety course to operate power-driven vessels in state waters was approved Friday by the Board of Land and Natural Resources. Maui News.

Groups focused on climate change say the knowledge of ancient cultures and indigenous people needs to be included, to provide the greatest opportunities for adaptation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu
Despite extensive election-year advertising and campaigning to convince the public of the benefits of the $5.26 billion Hono­lulu rail project, only 44 percent of Oahu residents believe work on it should continue, according to a new Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

The campaign for Honolulu mayor appears to be a race for second place, with former Gov. Ben Cayetano a clear favorite heading into the Aug. 11 primary, according to a new Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

A Windward Oahu primary election race could turn out to be a referendum on the Demo­cratic leadership of the state House. Star-Advertiser.

Huge cranes dominate the skyline of the University of Hawaii at Manoa this summer as the campus undergoes $137.5 million worth of construction and renovation. Star-Advertiser.

Nevada-based Blue Earth Inc. has acquired the rights to a 497-kilowatt solar farm in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu says contractors will perform archaeological studies this week near Pearl Harbor, the airport, and Kakaako.Associated Press.

State and federal officials plan to meet residents to discuss upcoming plans to clean up former sugar plantation soil in what is now a Kauai residential neighborhood. Associated Press.

An underground sewer tunnel the city is proposing to build in Windward Oahu is facing some stiff opposition. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi has asked the state Attorney General’s Office to help sort out apparent discrepancies in the county voter registration database. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council Chair Dominic Yagong defended the County Clerk's actions following concerns about apparent discrepancies in voter registration rolls. KITV4.

In this election, Big Island voters will decide which direction the Hawaii County mayor will take over the next four years. Tribune-Herald.

Of the three lawyers running to be county prosecutor, one describes himself as “the law-and-order candidate,” another as “a community-oriented prosecutor,” while the third said he was blessed with “the spiritual gift of discernment.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The county Board of Variances & Appeals on Friday dismissed an appeal of Maui County's issuance of grading permits for the planned Maui Outlets and Piilani Promenade shopping complexes in Kihei. Maui News.

Kauai

There were significantly more Japan and Canada visitor arrivals to Kaua‘i this June than last June and they, along with all other visitors, spent considerably more on the island than last June. Garden Island.

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation has budgeted more than $136 million for Kaua‘i roads. Garden Island.

Molokai

After receiving opposition from residents as well as state and federal agencies, the U.S. Marine Corps says it won’t increase training activity in the Kalaupapa settlement. Molokai Dispatch.