Showing posts with label rail. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rail. Show all posts

Friday, December 6, 2019

Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies to go on despite shooting, Board of Education OKs teacher pay raises, Big Islanders fight free Wi-Fi, 21 cattle die on Kauai-bound barge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy National Parks Service
USS Arizona Memorial PC:U.S. Parks Service
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day commemoration will continue as planned Saturday. The annual commemoration ceremony marking the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor will continue as planned Saturday, three days after a US sailor killed two civilian workers and injured another before killing himself at the US naval base. CNN.

Navy sailor who killed 2 at Pearl Harbor shipyard was facing disciplinary proceeding. The U.S. Navy sailor who fatally shot two at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard on Wednesday and wounded a third was having disciplinary problems at work and had been enrolled in anger management courses, multiple sources confirm. Hawaii News Now.

Many questions hang over Pearl Harbor shooting. The troubled 22-year-old Pearl Harbor sailor identified as shooting three shipyard workers Wednesday and then killing himself may have come from a troubled ship. Star-Advertiser.

Gunman, two victims identified following Pearl Harbor shooting. The gunman and the two victims that died in Wednesday’s shooting incident at Pearl Harbor has been identified. KHON2.

30-year-old Wai'anae man identified as a victim in the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard shooting. One of the two men killed by a US sailor at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard was identified on Thursday as 30-year-old Vincent Kapoi Junior. KITV.

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School board approves plan to boost pay for special ed, Hawaiian immersion teachers. The Board of Education voted Thursday to give qualified, licensed teachers in the most critical shortage areas a big pay boost starting Jan. 7 to try to keep them on the job and attract more educators. Star-Advertiser.

BOE OKs pay increase for teachers in hard-to-fill positions. The state Board of Education on Thursday approved a proposal to address Hawaii’s continuing teacher shortage by increasing pay for classroom teachers in areas that have faced the most severe staff shortages. Tribune-Herald.

BOE Passes Teacher Pay Increases 7-2. Educators in specialized fields and hard-to-staff geographical areas are on track to receive extra compensation by January. Big Island Now.

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‘One Giant Pediatric Measles Ward’: A Samoan Hospital Is Overwhelmed. Some of Hawaii’s medical team in Samoa are providing care at the hospital, which is strapped for equipment, space and manpower. Civil Beat.

Samoans grateful for Hawaii medical team. An emergency medical team from Hawaii, along with Samoan volunteers and aid workers from other countries, immunized more than 20,000 residents on the first day of a mandatory vaccination campaign. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Trustees Differ Over New Audit’s Analysis. Colette Machado says it confirms the office is moving in the “right direction” but Kelii Akina sees fraud and abuse. Civil Beat.

Oahu

New HART Analyses Show Millions Of Dollars In Added Rail Costs. The projected costs to complete Honolulu’s 20-mile rail transit system have grown by about $70 million in the past four months, based on the local rail agency’s ongoing analyses of risks to the project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell reaffirms support for plastics ban. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell Thursday reaffirmed that he will likely sign a bill approved by the City Council Wednesday that would ban most food-service type, single-use plastics on Oahu by 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Wi-Fi fears: Some don’t want free Wi-Fi at county facilities. Fear of radio wave exposure and a desire not to be around cellphone users inspired more than 50 people to send the County Council testimony opposing free Wi-Fi at county parks and facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Police operations on Mauna Kea are expensive ‘speed trap,’ county chairman says. Hawaii County police stationed on Mauna Kea have issued more than 7,600 traffic citations during the protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope, and a frustrated Hawaii County Council Chairman Aaron Chung is now describing police operations on the mountain as an enormously expensive “speed trap.” Star-Advertiser.

HELCO celebrates 125 years. At the end of the 19th century, Akima Brown Akui began working for the newly founded Hilo Electric Light Company. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Opponents become backers of West Maui development. Pulelehua plan with bump to 500 affordable units hammered out at meeting. The state Land Use Commission on Wednesday credited community engagement with producing an agreement that may finally help move forward a West Maui housing and commercial development project that’s stagnated for more than a decade. Maui News.

PUC contested case hearing underway for Paeahu Solar project. The state consumer advocate Wednesday warned about “pursuing clean energy goals at any cost” and allowing the pursuit of renewables that could leave developers and neighbors “fighting against each other.” Maui News.

New Ban on Maui: Commercial Ocean Recreation Activities Prohibited on Sundays and Holidays. Starting on Jan. 1, 2020, the County of Maui will prohibit Commercial Ocean Recreation Activities at County beach parks on Sundays and holidays. Maui Now.

Kauai

County hires Mel Rapozo. Former county councilmember Mel Rapozo has been hired as an investigator for the Kauai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, according to a county spokesperson. Garden Island.

Critics: Deaths of 21 cattle on barge bound for Kauai ‘cruel and inhumane’. State Agriculture Department officials said 21 cattle died while they were being transported on a Young Brothers barge bound for Kauai last month. Hawaii News Now.

Let the healing begin. Teenagers struggling with substance abuse will soon be able to get the treatment they need without leaving the island. Garden Island.

Monday, February 25, 2019

Hiker rescue reimbursement bill advancing through Legislature, Ige not worried about federal rail funds, 'lava bomb' tour boat victim sues, Maui development fight, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hiker on Kilauea volcano ©2019 All Hawaii News
A bill that would require public safety agencies to seek reimbursement from hikers who are rescued while trespassing on public trails is making its way through the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

More security could be coming to the state Capitol, but how will that affect access? Hawaii News Now.

Legislators are considering a bill to require licensing or accreditation of all private schools in Hawaii because of fears unlicensed operations may be falling short of basic safety and other standards. Star-Advertiser.

Be Audited Or Die: New Budget Process Cracks Down On State Agency. The Hawaii Agribusiness Development Corp. manages about 3,300 acres of land and infrastructure acquired with $71.4 million in taxpayer money. Civil Beat.

Film industry leaders worry tax credit limit will turn away potential filmmakers. KITV.

Tobacco tax clears final Senate committee. After a decision by the state Senate Committee on Ways and Means Thursday, a new tobacco tax is one reading shy of heading to the House of Representatives for consideration. West Hawaii Today.

Statewide hotel occupancy dropped to its lowest January level in four years, as every major Hawaii isle began the year with fewer occupied hotel rooms. Star-Advertiser.

Study: Moving Ourselves Away From The Shoreline Is Hard But Doable. A new report sheds light on some of the critical factors for the state to consider when implementing a managed retreat strategy. Civil Beat.

Amazon spreading its wings in Hawaii. The online retail giant established a package receiving and distribution facility at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport nearly a year ago after deciding to fly its own cargo planes to Honolulu from Riverside, Calif. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ige Doesn’t Think HART’s Federal Funding Is Threatened. For now, Hawaii’s governor expects the funding will go forward despite an investigation into the rail project and the state’s recent lawsuit against the Trump administration. Civil Beat.

Lifeguards will be at Hanauma Bay longer. Starting Sunday, the popular Hanauma Bay extended its lifeguard hours. It's a pilot program that will be evaluated in a year. KHON2.

City making changes to prevent drownings at Hanauma Bay. KITV.

Retailers who pay top dollar to rent space in one of the nation’s premium shopping districts have joined Waikiki residents in pushing for a city ordinance to limit the number of street closure permits issued for Kalakaua Avenue. Star-Advertiser.

Former sex worker speaks out claiming police officers pressured her to perform sexual acts. This woman claims at least five Honolulu police officers pressured her to perform sexual acts. KITV.

Protesters tell Alexander & Baldwin: ‘Don’t be a deadbeat dad’. Dozens protested at Alexander & Baldwin Inc.'s downtown headquarters Friday, saying A&B and other companies like them are not paying their fair share of taxes. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu libraries start lending ukulele as interest grows. As interest in the ukulele soars across the country, the Aloha State is starting to make the perky little instrument available free to use through its public libraries. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The first sewer fee hike in 17 years squeaked through the County Council on a 5-4 vote this week, but only after it was amended to spread the cost over five years instead of the three requested by the administration. West Hawaii Today.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency could end up spending $177 million on the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

The family of an Illinois woman seriously injured last July when a “lava bomb” tore through the roof of a tour boat off Kapoho is suing the tour company and its owner in state court. Tribune-Herald.

A Hilo fire rescue specialist who was transferred to a Kailua-Kona fire station is claiming Fire Chief Darren Rosario retaliated against him after he filed an internal complaint of harassment and workplace violence about two coworkers. West Hawaii Today.

For the first time since Big Island legislators began seeking lifeguards for Kua Bay in 2013, a measure to secure life-saving personnel for the site was heard and passed by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. West Hawaii Today.

A resolution urging the county administration to increase funding to add more police officers in Puna is expected to appear on the Hawaii County Council’s Public Safety Committee agenda on March 12 in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Business owners in the town of Volcano are worried a new law regulating short-term vacation rentals on the Big Island will impact their village. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hopes to reopen one of its prime attractions, the Thurston Lava Tube, this year after improving traffic congestion issues in the park. Tribune-Herald.

The Kamuela Vacuum Cooling Plant is in line for a face-lift. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Maui resident has sued the state, Maui County and a developer to stop construction of a housing subdivision after learning that at least 182 Native Hawaiian burials have been disturbed by the project. Star-Advertiser.

The Maui County Council on Friday approved eight nominees to respective department directorships, and rejected three appointees. Maui Now.

$257,000 Launiupoko Parking Lot Repaving Project Begins Monday. Maui Now.

Maui’s 12 sites logged nearly 100 whales in a 15-minute time period and 774 whales total during The Great Whale Count by Pacific Whale Foundation on Saturday, the second of three monthly counts, according to the foundation. Maui News.

Kauai

In five years Kauai has seen the number of beach goers more than double, yet the number of rescues and drownings over that same period has decreased, according to the Kauai Lifeguard Association. Garden Island.

Species are springing to life on Kauai’s South Shore that haven’t been seen in more than 200 years, and it’s wetland rehabilitation that’s making it happen. Garden Island.

Monday, December 24, 2018

Hawaii Supreme Court overturns public records exemption, feral cat feeding at harbors banned, Honolulu rail meets federal deadline, Maui Styrofoam ban to begin, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Feral cat feeding in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News
 Gov. David Ige has approved new rules for the state’s small boat harbors that prohibit camping and the feeding of feral cats at the harbors. Star-Advertiser.

The backlog of repair and maintenance projects at Hawaii’s public schools is an estimated $868 million, roughly three times worse than what legislators were told in January. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time since statehood in 1959, Hawaii’s population declined for two consecutive years with fewer births, more deaths and a greater number of residents moving to the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii and Japan have signed a memorandum of cooperation for a reciprocal partial exemption of driver’s license exam requirements. Star-Advertiser.

Former President Barack Obama back in Hawaii. When Barack Obama was President of the United States, it was an annual tradition to spend the holidays in Hawaii. It looks like that tradition is continuing. KHON2.

Oahu


Hawaii Supreme Court Overturns 30 Years Of Government Secrecy. The ruling says that the city of Honolulu — as well as many other government agencies — have withheld public records for decades using an excuse that doesn’t exist in state law. Civil Beat.

In win for transparency, state Supreme Court overturns restrictions on public records. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige is pushing forward on plans to relocate Oahu’s overcrowded jail in Kalihi to Halawa Valley, inserting $5 million into his proposed budget for fiscal year 2020 for studying financing options for the facility, which is estimated to cost about $525 million. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Meets Federal Demands On Rail Project. City and rail officials satisfied federal requirements that they spend $44 million in local funds on the project, pursue a public-private partnership and update their financial recovery plan. Civil Beat.

The Federal Transit Administration said all requirements have been met in order for it to proceed with a review of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s revised recovery plan on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Partners In Care — the group organizing January’s six-day census of Oahu’s homeless — needs hygiene products and volunteers in every community. Star-Advertiser.

Christmas Eve homeless sweep upsets civil liberties groups. The city gears up for a Christmas Eve homeless sweep in Waikiki. Before dawn, crews will enforce the Sidewalk Nuisance Ordinance and the Stored Property Ordinance, and civil liberties groups are upset at the timing. KITV.

Coast Guard welcomes Cutter Kimball, the first of its kind to call Hawaii home. Hawaii News Now.

A Hawaii historian is looking to preserve an old Quonset hut on Oahu that was possibly part of a segregated encampment for black laborers and enlisted men during World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Aulani lauded for embracing Native Hawaiian language. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Big Squeeze: an analysis of tax and fee increases island residents are expected to pay. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Squeeze, Part 1: Five county taxes and fees are increasing. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Squeeze: Part 2, the state. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Squeeze: Part 3, utilities. West Hawaii Today.

Lava rock could lay foundation for basalt industry. The Big Island produced a lot of new lava rock this year, and some of it could be the raw material for a new local industry, according to a report commissioned by a state agency. Star-Advertiser.

The bikeshare program in Kailua Village is doubling from three to six bike stations, thanks to action Wednesday by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Plate lunches soon will need a new plate. New law bans foam takeout containers starting Dec. 31. Maui News.

Old post office for bus hub land exchange is approved. Final council meeting of term: Lease pact involves old Wailuku Post Office. Maui News.

Officer Involved Shooting in Wailuku Under Investigation. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative Nominating Committee has selected three candidates for its Board of Directors election on March 23, all of them incumbents: Calvin Murashige, Jan TenBruggencate and Peter Yukimura. Garden Island.

Kauai forestry experts have been operating at elevated levels on Kauai since a more virulent form of rapid ohia death was found on the island for the first time last week. Star-Advertiser.

Monday, November 19, 2018

DLNR land policies scrutinized, PUC chair Iwase retiring, new homeless camp for Waianae, lawsuit over Leilani access, Molokai plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Pololu Valley lookout ©2018 All Hawaii News
Booming market, idle lands. Hard up for cash, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources nearly a decade ago identified 14 mostly vacant properties as having the best potential among its inventory of idled lands to start generating badly needed funds for park maintenance. Star-Advertiser.

Examples raising questions about DLNR’s oversight of state land. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has a poor track record of leasing idled lands on several islands that it described nearly a decade ago as having the best revenue-generating potential. Star-Advertiser.

Lease extensions stir controversy. When a ground lease expires, the buildings or other improvements on the land typically become the property of the landowner. Star-Advertiser.

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New Shipping Rules May Drive Up Hawaii’s Power Bills. But experts say there is a silver lining: higher fuel prices will make renewable energy sources in Hawaii even more competitive. Civil Beat.

Hawaii PUC Chair Iwase to retire in late December. Hawaii Public Utilities Commission Chair Randall Iwase is retiring from public office in late December to spend more time with his family. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Lt. Gov. needs a real job or save us the big salary. If Lt. Gov.-elect Josh Green wants to make a difference, he should convene a working group to conceive a real job description for the office, with meaningful constitutional responsibilities independent from the governor, and sell it to the Legislature and voters as a constitutional amendment. Star-Advertiser.

$1 Million Grant Keeps ‘Super Coral’ Research Alive. Scientists will continue the work of the late Ruth Gates to develop corals that are more resistant to the effects of climate change and create reefs that provide natural coastal protection. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii hotel workers strike, now at day 42, is likely to continue for at least another eight days. Star-Advertiser.

Conference spotlights Hawaii’s budding hemp industry. Hawaii has eight farms growing industrial hemp under a state-regulated project exploring the viability of the versatile plant as a commercial crop, and an upcoming conference aims to expand and share knowledge on the subject. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New location discussed for Waianae homeless. Discussions are under- way to move the 270-person homeless encampment next to the Waianae Small Boat Harbor to unspecified, privately owned land farther mauka, and to erect wooden “tiny homes” for its residents. Star-Advertiser.

City Council Takes On Building Permit Backlog. The Honolulu City Council has given final approval to a bill that aims to streamline the process for getting a building permit. Hawaii Public Radio.

All aboard: HART invites public to explore rail cars. HART hopes to begin operations and welcome passengers aboard by Dec. 2020. Hawaii News Now.

Pearl Harbor shipyard changes planned to meet submarine need. The Navy says it wants to spend $5 billion over 20 years to improve Pearl Harbor shipyard’s aged infrastructure and to accommodate an expected increase in Virginia-class attack submarine work. Star-Advertiser.

City asks windward Oahu residents to weigh in on plans for aging bridge. Waiahole Stream bridge is 96 years old. Hawaii News Now.

The Battle Over the Waikiki Natatorium Continues. A new round over what to do about the Waikiki Natatorium has been touched off with a new alternative for a swim basin replacing the crumbling walls with a fiberglass mess. Former war veterans weighed in on the controversy over the weekend on veterans day...against the backdrop of the war memorial and ceremonies held there. Hawaii Public Radio.

Police, abuse victims call for stronger court system to end domestic violence. The state auditor found, over a four year period there were more than 7,000 arrests by Honolulu police for misdemeanor and felony domestic violence. KITV.

First-time buyers crowd seminars on The Central tower near Ala Moana. Technically, they’re not for sale yet, but condominiums in a planned tower next to Ala Moana Center are in high demand, and potential buyers are facing long odds in getting one of the designated affordable units. Star-Advertiser.

Dockless bikeshare rolls into Honolulu, but smooth ride not guaranteed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lax oversight by DLNR allows businesses to use state land for free at a Kona harbor. The Department of Land and Natural Resources for years has allowed fishing charters, a submarine tour operation and other private businesses at a public boat harbor on Hawaii island to use state land without paying rent, a Honolulu Star-Advertiser investigation has found. Star-Advertiser.

Judge calls inspections at Pohakuloa training area ‘grossly inadequate’. The spotty inspection record came to light as a result of a lawsuit Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners Clarence “Ku” Ching and Mary Maxine Kahaulelio filed against DLNR in 2014, alleging the department and its governing board breached their trust duties by failing to enforce the Pohakuloa lease. Star-Advertiser.

‘Local boy’ wants PTA to be a good steward. Self-proclaimed “local boy” Lt. Col. Loreto V. Borce Jr., commander at U.S. Army Garrison Pohakuloa Training Area, hit the ground running when he took over PTA in late May, with goals of readiness, workforce and community. West Hawaii Today.

Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara has introduced a resolution urging Hawaii County to grant temporary control of Leilani Avenue to the Leilani Estates Community Association. Tribune-Herald.

Leilani Estates homeowners are asking the federal courts to order Hawaii County officials to maintain the security checkpoint that keeps out nonresidents, and to order the Federal Emergency Management Agency to continue paying for it. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiians concerned DHHL housing development dragging. The Department of Hawaiian Homelands issued a request for proposal in February of 2016 to develop 163 single-family lots across two sections of the Villages of Laiopua Hawaiian home lands properties. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health will hold a series of public hearings next month on the Big Island to discuss proposed changes to the state’s immunization requirements for school attendance. Tribune-Herald.

Funding for next step in Kealakehe Regional Park up for council vote this week. West Hawaii Today.

Updated county website in the works. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The 324-unit Wailuku apartment project planned across from Longs Drugs in Kehalani advanced Thursday as the Maui County Council approved a resolution and a bill to pave its way. Maui News.

The state Department of Health will hold public hearings next month in Maui County to get community input on proposed amendments to state requirements for health examinations and immunizations for school attendance in Hawaii. Maui News.

In recent years, West Maui community members have been organizing to protect their shorelines. From 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 7, the broad umbrella group Na Papai Wawae Ulaula and the West Maui Preservation Association, along with other sponsoring organizations, will host a one-day symposium, “Disappearing Shorelines and Managed Retreat: A Conversation,” at Wai Ola Church. Maui News.


Kauai

Free meals for Thanksgiving. Garden Island.

The Blood Bank of Hawaii announced its schedule of upcoming blood drives, calling on Kauai residents to give “the ultimate gift this holiday season.” Garden Island.

Molokai

Updated Molokai island plan closer to final approval. New plan calls for maintaining Molokai’s rural character, farming. Maui News.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Federal aid iffy in Kilauea volcano response, alternate road planned as cracks emerge in main thoroughfare, cancellations concern tourism officials -- lots more volcano news. Plus, homelessness drops, rail costs rise, more top news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A local pokes fun at federal volcano responders in this Facebook photo illustration PC: Gayln Williams
Federal disaster declaration iffy, governor says. The ongoing volcanic eruption does not yet appear to reach the financial threshold for a federal disaster declaration, but Gov. David Ige is exploring whether a disaster can be declared for presenting “an imminent danger to the community.” Star-Advertiser.

'Open for business': Tourism leaders say misinformation is driving spike in cancellations. Hawaii News Now.


Volcanic activity has paused at all 12 fissures although they continue to emit hazardous fumes, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Star-Advertiser.

As eruptions subside on Big Island, residents warned: 'This is not over'. Hawaii News Now.

Volcanic activity calms for now, but officials 'don't believe this is the end of it'. KHON2.

Hawaii County Civil Defense officials said Monday that a total of 35 structures, most of those homes, have been destroyed by lava flowing from the eruptions from 10 fissures on Kilauea’s east rift zone, while officials with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the dropoff in activity from the eruption is “likely only a pause in activity.” Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County's Department of Public Works reports steam and lava emissions from a crack in Leilani Subdivision in the area of Mohala Street late Thursday afternoon. Since then, earthquakes have shook the island, and more fissures have appeared. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor David Ige visited community members and volunteers in Pahoa Monday at Puuhonua O Puna, an information center established by Big Island Civil Defense at Sacred Hearts Church. KITV.

Hawaii Island leaders addressed the crowd Monday night at the public meeting on the ongoing Puna eruption, held at the Pahoa cafeteria. Big Island Video News.

The state and Hawaii County are preparing an alternate route to Puna in case Kilauea eruptions cut off Highway 130. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is working with the County of Hawaii to prepare an alternative route in Puna should Highway 130 be cut off by the Kilauea Volcano East Rift Zone Eruption. Big Island Now.

Officials work on contingency plan should current eruption cut off highway. KHON2.

Science explains Kilauea, a volcano oozing hot lava for decades. Kilauea is not your typical blow-the-top-off kind of volcano. Associated Press.

Despite Risks, Volcano Offers Affordable Piece Of Paradise. The people here are largely self-sufficient and understand the hazards of their location. Associated Press.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports volcanic activity has subsided at all 12 fissures, but hazardous fumes remain. Star-Advertiser.

Some Leilani Estates residents stay put despite evacuation order. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic activity in Leilani impacts water supply of surrounding neighborhoods. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii island residents whose homes were destroyed by lava should be able to recover money for fire damage from their homeowners insurance policies. Star-Advertiser.

‘Business as usual’ in Lanipuna. With daily updates of more volcanic fissures opening and lava destroying homes in Leilani Estates, it’s easy to forget that Lanipuna Gardens, a smaller neighboring subdivision, also remains under evacuation order by Hawaii County Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

Two lava-related arrests made in Leilani Estates. Tribune-Herald.

In just the past week, people on the Big Island have felt over 1,200 earthquakes. Hawaii News Now.

The Latest: Lava update from Hawaii Island. KITV.

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Count shows big decline in homelessness, but some doubt its accuracy. Hawaii News Now.

The statewide Point-in-Time Count, a census of Hawaii’s homeless population, decreased across all islands, indicating that the state is making progress in reducing the country’s highest per capita rate of homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii saw a 9.6 percent decrease in its homeless population as compared to a year ago, according to a survey released Monday. Civil Beat.

Homelessness in Hawaii has taken a nosedive for the second consecutive year, according to the 2018 statewide Point In Time Count Report conducted in January and released Monday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Homeless Point-In-Time Count Down For 2nd Consecutive Year. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Neighbor island housing markets were mainly positive last month with mostly higher sale volume and prices on Hawaii island, Maui County and Kauai, according to data from local real estate agent trade associations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines tops $100M in baggage, change fees. Hawaiian Airlines has given no indication of changing its baggage and change-fee policies even with Southwest Airlines lurking in the distance. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A one-day census of Oahu’s homeless population decreased for the first time in nine years and resulted in the statewide Point in Time Count decreasing for the second year in a row. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s rail agency has awarded the project’s next major contract: a work package valued at as much as $400 million to relocate utilities along the route’s last four miles into town. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has awarded Nan Inc. a contract worth a maximum $400 million to relocate utilities along the proposed rail transit route through Honolulu’s city center. Pacific Business News.

Councilmember Kobayashi plans to prevent another Manoa stream flood. KITV.

Trump signs bill to add Pacific War memorial to Honolulu WWII sites. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The county Board of Ethics made quick work Monday agreeing that Kohala Councilman Tim Richards doesn’t have a conflict of interest voting on a vacation rental bill, even though he and his wife operate a vacation rental themselves. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim inched his annual spending plan up another $2.3 million in his proposed budget delivered Monday to the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Naalehu residents raise concern after wastewater treatment facility preliminary design puts it next to school. West Hawaii Today.

Heavy vog expected in West Hawaii through this week. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Statewide survey finds a slight decrease in Maui homeless people. Valley Isle’s decline lowest in state, which had overall 9.6% drop in homeless population. Maui News.

With the median sales price hitting $725,000 for a single-family home and $508,513 for a condominium, the Realtors Association of Maui statistics for April provide the latest evidence of how tough it is for working-class residents to buy homes here. Maui News.

Maui Community Correctional Center Gets 3 New Adult Correctional Officers. Maui Now.

An 11.3-acre photovoltaic solar project located in Haleakala Ranch pastures came online over the weekend. Maui Now.

Maui's first large-scale solar project goes online. On Saturday, Kenyon Energy, in partnership with Maui Electric Co., flipped the switch on its new 2.87-megawatt solar farm on the Valley Isle south side. Pacific Business News.

With help from the Small Business Development Center, Maui resident Jenna Davis created Raw Love Sunscreen, an FDA approved, water proof and coral-safe sunscreen with no harmful chemicals, preservatives or fillers. Maui Now.

Kauai

Flood relief efforts ongoing. It’s been nearly a month since historic rainfall caused catastrophic flooding on Kauai, destroying homes and cars, killing livestock and initially leaving three North Shore communities isolated. Garden Island.

Felicia Cowden has filed to run for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

The Department of Public Works is announcing that one lane of alternating traffic will be open for portions of Koloa Road to allow for the performance of pavement survey work today. Garden Island.

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Hawaii unlikely to give up voter rolls, state GOP organizes, feds say telecom deal illegal, Waikiki floatilla ends in chaos, Lehua poison drop delayed, little progress on special rail session, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2014 courtesy photo
No vote no grumble campaign, 2014 courtesy photo
Gov. David Ige joined a chorus of other state leaders Monday in criticizing a White House commission’s request for a trove of personal voter data. Ige said the state doesn’t have any assurance that the information would be kept secure and, at this point, doesn’t think the state should share those records. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Unlikely To Cooperate With Trump’s Voter Fraud Panel. State law doesn’t allow for the sharing of personal information with the federal government. Civil Beat.

The 2018 Primary Election is a little more than a year away.  Hawaii Republicans are trying to organize for that election and win. Hawaii Public Radio.

Federal authorities announced Monday that a long-standing, exclusive agreement between the Hawaiian Homes Commission and embattled telecommunications provider Sandwich Isles Communications Inc. violates federal law, a decision that raises new doubts about the company’s future. Star-Advertiser.

Workers' comp insurance up in the air for medical marijuana dispensaries. Hawaii News Now.

The clock is ticking, but state lawmakers say they haven’t made much progress yet on a special session that’s supposed to solve the rail crisis. Star-Advertiser.

As federal officials crack down on illegal immigration, many in Hawaii’s faith community are mobilizing. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the first phase of a plan to significantly reshape how Hawaiian Electric Co. delivers power to some 450,000 customers statewide, the utility has unveiled a $205 million proposal to upgrade its electric grid over six years. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s solar industry slump continues, but representatives are hopeful batteries connected to solar energy systems will help the number of installations rebound. Star-Advertiser.

New Hawaii Law Bans Wildlife Trafficking. Maui Now.

Anyone following education news in the state lately knows there’s no shortage of plans for improving public schools. Civil Beat.

Following a hiatus of more than a decade, pregnant Marshallese women are coming to Hawaii late in their pregnancies, having their babies and then placing the newborns with mainland families for adoption under suspicious circumstances, health care providers, community advocates and others say. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Wastewater is flowing across the sand and sidewalks and into the ocean along a popular stretch of beach, exposing unwitting beachgoers to potentially dangerous bacteria, an environmental watchdog alleges. Star-Advertiser.

Lifeguards estimate 8,000 to 10,000 people attended the annual Independence Day “floatilla” off Waikiki, hundreds had to be rescued from the water. Star-Advertiser.

A so-called July Fourth "floatilla" party off Waikiki quickly dissolved into chaos Tuesday afternoon, with hundreds being rescued from the water and at least 10 people taken to hospitals with alcohol-related injuries. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds gathered Tuesday at Iolani Palace to participate in a dramatic re-enactment of events that 123 years ago led to the completion of the overthrow of the independent nation of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Kealoha, a Honolulu city prosecutor who’s under federal criminal investigation for alleged corruption and abuse of power, has been on unpaid leave since late April. Civil Beat.

The Howard Hughes Corp. plans to include micro-units in its next mixed-use condominium project at its Ward Village master-planned community in Honolulu's fast-growing Kakaako neighborhood, with studio units starting at less than 300 square feet. Pacific Business News.

After 18 years, The Pineapple Room by Alan Wong located in Macy’s at Ala Moana Center will serve its last meal on July 29. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County might soon clamp down on drinking at James Kealoha Beach Park, also known as 4 Mile. Tribune-Herald.

Repairs to the Keahuolu Deepwell are expected to be completed Sunday, the County Department of Water Supply said. West Hawaii Today.

A House bill that would allow tiny houses to be built on Hawaii County ag land is on the governor’s veto list after being passed by the state Legislature. Big Island Video News.

Federal judge breathes new life into lawsuit: Do public housing tenants have a personal right to seek legal redress to their complaints, or must they rely on government agencies to defend their tenant rights? West Hawaii Today.

A 64-year-old Hilo man accused of sexually assaulting a woman Friday morning in Orchidland Estates is a driver for Arc of Hilo and the alleged victim, an adult, was mentally unable to consent to sex and physically unable to resist, according to court documents filed by police. Tribune-Herald.

A county funded community collaboration in lower Puna aims to find new solutions to the rapid ohia death problem. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald won 14 awards, including four first-place honors, in the annual journalism contest put on by the Hawaii chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


The president of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii said Monday that the transition of three Maui County hospitals from state control to management by the nonprofit health care company “exceeded our expectations.” Pacific Business News.

Council panel reviewing bills on sand mining: An official from Maui Lani Partners said Monday that the company has been “taking material off-site since 1994” and that the county’s warning to stop grading and excavating sand two months ago “was the first time we were made aware there was a notice of warning on a potential violation on the property.” Maui News.

Protecting the watershed at the Kula Forest Reserve and the Kahikinui Forest Reserve’s Papa’anui tract through land acquisition, public hunting of pigs, deer and goats and forest monitoring is the top priority in a draft reserve management plan released by the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Maui News.

Kauai

Poison drop scheduled for Lehua awaiting permits. Garden Island.

Volunteers to hike to Alakai Swamp to band birds. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Gov. Ige slashes budget, Oahu loses population in census estimate, protection for Hawaii travel ban judge, House loses rare Republican after Trump criticism, rail tax survives, Honolulu tax hikes ahead, fighter jets coming, electricity increases, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo, Governor's Office
Ige with schoolchildren, courtesy photo
Budget cuts hit construction, schools. Gov. David Ige has proposed a package of spending cuts for the next two years that includes slashing the state construction budget financed with general obligation bonds to $1 billion from $1.5 billion during the next two years. Star-Advertiser.

Census: Oahu loses population for first time in a decade, while Hawaii Island hits national growth benchmark. Hawaii Island led the state in several measures of population increases, according to estimates released late Wednesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii judge who blocked travel ban gets protection detail. The U.S. Marshals Service has flown in about a dozen deputies from the mainland to provide 24-hour protection for U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson. Hawaii News Now.

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Fukumoto says aloha to GOP. Rep. Beth Fukumoto announced today that she is leaving the Republican Party, citing, in part, its failure to condemn elements of racism and sexism within its base. She will seek membership in the Democratic Party. Star-Advertiser.

Ending months of speculation, state Rep. Beth Fukumoto made it official Wednesday: She resigned from the Hawaii Republican Party and announced that she will seek membership in the Democratic Party of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii lawmaker who says she was pressured to give up her leadership post at the statehouse after criticizing President Donald Trump resigned Wednesday from the Republican Party. Associated Press.

Rep. Beth Fukumoto announced on Wednesday that she will be leaving the Republican Party and seeking membership with the Democratic Party.  At a press conference, she cited racism and sexism as the core reasons why she's leaving the GOP. KITV.

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Lawmakers consider charging prepaid wireless users a 911 fee. A bill in the state Legislature would charge a fee of 1.2 percent on pre-paid wireless plans or cards, with the revenue going into the Enhanced 911 Fund.  Hawaii News Now.

Electricity bills increase across isles. The cost of electricity in the state is double the national average, as Hawaii residents paid an average of 27.68 cents a kilowatt-hour for electricity in December. The national average was 12.21 cents in the same month, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Energy, the ratepayer-funded energy conservation and efficiency program for Honolulu, Hawaii and Maui counties, accounted for more than $325 million in lifetime savings for its customers in its last program year, its top executive said Wednesday at an industry event on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Why Hawaii Must Become More Energy Resilient. Speakers at the Maui Energy Conference posed questions about what type of life the state wants to create for its citizens as it adapts. Civil Beat.

Iwase glad he rejected NextEra. Eight months after the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission rejected Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3 billion bid to buy the state’s dominate electric utility, Commission Chairman Randy Iwase said he feels good about the decision. Star-Advertiser.

Randy Iwase, head of the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, said he is very comfortable with the state agency’s decision to reject Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3 billion deal to buy Hawaiian Electric Co. Pacific Business News.

Fighter jets flocking to Hawaii for combat exercise. An increase in fighter aircraft activity will be seen beginning next week as part of a new round of the recurring Sentry Aloha exercise, the Hawaii National Guard said. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor’s budget plan, tax and fee hikes get initial OK by Council. Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s $2.45 billion operating budget proposal and an accompanying slate of measures raising various taxes and fees won initial approval from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council gives preliminary approval for increased bus and garbage fee.  The council voted in favor of increasing bus prices beginning January of next year.  Single fares would jump 25 cents to $2.75. KITV.

Council OK’s Bill Eliminating Cap On Rail Money. The Honolulu City Council approved a measure Wednesday to eliminate the $4.8 billion cap on how much general excise tax money can be used to build the city’s 20-mile rail project. Civil Beat.

Legislators differ on rail-tax extension. A rail-tax extension is back in play at the state Capitol — but the proposal will likely face more tough scrutiny and hurdles in the weeks ahead. Star-Advertiser.

House Restores Honolulu Rail Tax — For Now. For the mayor of Honolulu, a state legislative hearing this week on a bill to pay for rail was a bit of déjà vu.. Civil Beat.

House Transportation Committee Extends GET Surcharge for Rail Transit for an Unspecified Period. State funding for the Honolulu Rail Transit project cleared a critical hurdle in the House today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Area for Rapid Transportation posts job ad for new CEO. The Honolulu Area for Rapid Transportation posted a job ad for a new chief executive officer last month. Pacific Business News.

City salaries reveal some employees make more than department heads. KHON2.

State clears homeless encampments from Diamond Head. Following six months of warnings, state law enforcement officers early Wednesday morning swept through 40 or so homeless encampments on the slopes of Diamond Head, where seven people had remained atop the Hawaii landmark. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii law enforcement agents have cleared dozens of homeless camps in Oahu's Diamond Head State Monument and issued citations to seven people who refused to leave despite weeks of warnings. Associated Press.

A private contractor hired by the state on Wednesday hauled away tons of trash from illegal homeless camps on Hawaii’s iconic Diamond Head crater.  Civil Beat.

A 78-year-old business could shut down due to problems after a homeless encampment moved into the neighborhood. KITV.

Sewage spill in Halawa prompts $465,000 fine. The state Department of Agriculture has been ordered to pay a $465,000 fine for discharging sewage into Halawa Stream on Oahu for two months last summer. Star-Advertiser.

State to dispute fine for massive Halawa sewage spill that lasted 2 months. Hawaii News Now.

Did Honolulu Cops Issue Fake Tickets Or Did The Honolulu Prosecutor Make Up The Story? Several defense lawyers who specialize in drunken driving cases are hoping to use Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro’s own words against him in an attempt to beat various DUI charges that have been filed against their clients in Oahu District Court. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Telescope foes criticize slew of objections. Thirty Meter Telescope foes are crying foul after lawyers with the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the TMT International Observatory board filed numerous objections to exhibits entered in the contested case proceedings. Star-Advertiser.

Start of $75M Kona airport expansion celebrated. State and airport officials are moving forward with the facility’s first expansion to accommodate the 3 million people now filtering through the airport annually. West Hawaii Today.

County to negotiate for purchase of Hakalau valley land. The Hawaii County Council authorized negotiations for the purchase of an 83-acre parcel in Hakalau valley in a 9-0 vote Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists Say There’s Hope For Dying Ohia Trees. Researchers are closer to understanding a fungus that has infected 50,000 acres of Big Island ohia forest in little more than a handful of years. Civil Beat.

Second ride-hailing company begins operations on Big Island; Lyft goes live today. Less than a week after ride-hailing first arrived on the shores of the Big Island, a new transportation startup is set to begin operations. Tribune-Herald.

Senior Produce Program to cease operations after 10 years. The Food Basket, Hawaii Island’s food bank, announced its decade-old Senior Produce Program has ended. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Haiku group sues county over housing project. Developer included in lawsuit that alleges an attempt to bypass public review, ag laws. A group of more than 200 Haiku residents has filed a lawsuit against the County of Maui and a proposed workforce housing development in Pauwela and is claiming that the project has circumvented public review and violated state and county agriculture laws, their attorney said last week. Maui News.

Panelist: ‘Food, water and energy must all intersect in agriculture’. Lack of coordination, inconsistent laws keep them out of sync, says sustainability expert Jonathan Koehn. Maui News.

Public input sought on MPD accreditation. Telephone and written comments will be accepted on the Maui Police Department’s ability to meet accreditation standards, and an assessment team from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies will be on Maui from March 27 to 30 to examine the department’s policies and procedures, management, operations and support system. Maui News.

Final birds from captive-breeding program released. Event marks the successful end to the recovery of the puaiohi birds into their native habitat. The final trio of endangered puaiohi birds bred in captivity — including on Maui — has been released to the wild on Kauai, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Tuesday. Maui News.

The Road To Hana Is Sometimes Paved With Bad Intentions. Some vehicles left behind by motorists with car trouble are vandalized. To make matters worse, emergency call boxes frequently don’t work. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Council begins budget process. The Kauai County Council began work Wednesday on Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr.’s proposed $204 million operating budget for fiscal year 2017-2018. Garden Island.

Post office resolution rejected. Kauai County Councilmembers may not want to see the Lihue post office change sites, but some say it’s out of their control. Garden Island.

Mohihi Camp road, bridge completed. A $2.4 million project to replace three bridges along the Mohihi Camp 10 access road in Kokee State Park was finished two months ahead of schedule. Garden Island.

Coral New growth at Waipa. Coral cover could be increasing around Kauai’s North Shore. Garden Island.

KCC could be smoke-free. Kauai Community College may join the University of Hawaii at Manoa as a smoke-free campus. Garden Island.

Monday, November 28, 2016

Supreme Court won't hear Hawaii spiritual marijuana case, fired Kulani prison warden sues, new book lays bare Hawaii politics, a post-sugar Maui, Kahaluu Lagoon still polluted, $100M sewer reclaim project planned, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Oklevueha Native American Church Facebook photo
The Supreme Court won’t take up an appeal from a Native American church in Hawaii that wants to be exempt from federal marijuana laws. Associated Press.

Hawaii hotel occupancy saw a slight boost during the week before Thanksgiving, mainly on the Neighbor Islands, but the statewide average daily room rate rose by 7 percent, according to the weekly report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and STR Inc. Pacific Business News.

Will Trump Be Able To Undo Papahanaumokuakea? The president lacks the express authority to revoke a national monument designation but Congress can do it. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Since the days of George Ariyoshi running for governor, when the question “Who you going to call?” was asked, Rick Tsujimura was the Hawaii political ghostbuster who answered. Tsujimura, the insider’s insider, remembered those campaigns in a new, interesting political book, “Campaign Hawaii,” published by Watermark Publishing. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Two years after the Department of Health warned residents to stay out of Kahaluu Lagoon and the channel leading to Kaneohe Bay because tests indicated raw sewage from cesspools was likely polluting the water, there’s no indication that the water quality will improve anytime soon. Star-Advertiser.

When Jesse Souki leaves the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on Wednesday, he’ll be the latest in a string of about a dozen prominent personnel to leave a rail agency that’s grappling with vacancies and high turnover. Star-Advertiser.

City Managing Director Roy Amemiya said Friday that Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration did not delay the announcement of Honolulu Zoo Administrator Baird Fleming’s resignation until after the Nov. 8 general election to ensure a key City Charter amendment won passage. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Tops For Mortgage Debt. The high cost of housing “helps explain why it’s the most maxed-out metro for housing debt” among the 100 most populous metro areas. Civil Beat.

Honolulu councilman proposes bill to establish AED requirement for all city, newly-constructed buildings. KHON2.

Fund-raising is a continuing challenge for all non-profit organizations. And a recent gathering in Honolulu highlighted several trends that have developed in the pursuit of donations. Hawaii Public Radio.

To honor the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai, an Iraq War veteran, for his service and commitment, a City Council measure seeks to rename the Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center at the Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park in Waipio after him. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The fired former warden of Kulani Correctional Facility is suing the state Department of Public Safety, claiming she was wrongfully terminated from the position. Tribune-Herald.

It’s not the kind of project that inspires a community celebration, but a $100 million-plus upgrade to the Kealakehe sewer plant could help the environment while sending treated wastewater to thirsty North Kona landscapes. West Hawaii Today.

The state is paying more than $2 million to have two geothermal wells plugged in Pahoa on the Big Island. Associated Press.

A planned East Hawaii Organics Facility is raising concern in the Panaewa community. Big Island Video News.

After nine days of exhaustive questioning of a half-dozen witnesses in a contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope, some TMT supporters are now privately describing the lengthy proceedings as a “filibuster” that will stall the project, and may even effectively block the $1.4 billion telescope from ever being built in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

If you’re getting a Christmas tree at Hooluana Tree Farm this season, be sure to bring your boots. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

With the final harvest nearing an end at Maui’s Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company, we asked company executives what will happen to the landscape as the island enters a post-sugar operation. Maui Now.

The sun-baked, wind-blown sugar cane that Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. burns, harvests and mills arrives here, where soft raw sugar crystals form more than several-story-high mountains of golden sweetness. Maui News.

Dispute threatens Manele Golf Course with possible closure. Land Use Commission meeting debate centers around the claim that drinking water used to irrigate a golf course. Maui News.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will hold public hearings next month in Maui County on proposed administrative rule changes. Maui News.

Kauai

After he is sworn in to the Kauai County Council next month, Derek Kawakami said he will strive to find compromises between differences of opinion among councilmembers. Garden Island.

Nakamura, Morikawa, Tokioka tabbed for roles. Legislators named to committees. Garden Island.

Commentary: With input now, we can still shape the future of Kauai. Garden Island.