Showing posts with label salaries. Show all posts
Showing posts with label salaries. Show all posts

Monday, November 20, 2023

Marcos describes Pacific tensions during Honolulu visit, Maui fire lawsuit defendant seeks change of venue, 22% raises mulled for Big Island officials, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tensions in Pacific ‘more dire,’ Marcos says in Waikiki speech. Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.  arrived Saturday in Honolulu for a stop on the way back to Manila after attending the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in San Francisco. He spent Sunday morning with Adm. John Aquilino, the U.S. military’s top commander in the Pacific, to discuss concerns about Chinese military encroachment in waters and reefs that the Philippines has claimed for generations. Star-Advertiser. Associated PressHawaii News Now.

Protesters show up for Marcos visit to Hawaii. About 25 protesters gathered Saturday outside the doors of the Hawai‘i Convention Center waiting for the arrival of visiting Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., where he was scheduled to attend a large dinner gathering. Star-Advertiser.

Spectrum Seeks To Move Lahaina Fire Case To Honolulu Court. The vast majority of Lahaina fire victims are not citizens of Maui or even Hawaii, a major internet and cable TV provider is arguing, in a move that could prevent a Maui jury from determining whether the company and other utilities were liable for the Aug. 8 fires. The outcome could have broad implications for the wildfire litigation, which consists of more than 65 separate lawsuits, with more being filed continually. Civil Beat.

U.S. fire official warns of risks for Hawaii, strain on firefighters. A top federal fire official warned that Hawaii’s firefighters are under considerable strain and that Hawaii residents need to be aware of the risks and begin making fire survival plans for themselves and their communities as the risks become more evident. Star-Advertiser.

Maui wildfire recovery costs prompt state spending cuts. Gov. Josh Green recently informed leaders of all state agencies that he is using his emergency power to redirect $173 million in appropriations for about two dozen projects and programs, including long-overdue repairs to a leaky Hawai‘i Convention Center roof, so that the state can cover near-term costs responding to the biggest disaster in recent Hawaii history. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s State-Run Psychiatric Hospital Is So Crowded Patients Sleep In Conference Rooms. The killing of a nurse last week happened outside the main secure facility, but it cast a spotlight on concerns about staff safety. Civil Beat.

Inclusion Of Special Education Students Still Eludes Hawaii Schools. Hawaii DOE wants more special education students in general education classrooms, but staffing and limited resources make implementation a challenge. Civil Beat.

OHA approves $6M for Hawaiian-focused charter schools. Public charter schools that serve Native Hawaiian students are getting a boost in funding to help with curriculum and facilities maintenance. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Crime on Oahu down overall, but hot spots persist. Sharing the latest crime statistics last week, Honolulu Police Department Deputy Chief Keith Horikawa told the Honolulu Police Commission that HPD has started a data dashboard — an online searchable display of updated crime statistics, clearance rates, shootings involving officers, crime mapping and other comparable data. Star-Advertiser.

Red Hill Texts Show Navy Officials Worried About Groundwater Months Before Crisis. The messages, released as part of a lawsuit, also document a commander drastically underestimating the volume of the first of two spills. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Liquor Commission’s New Administrator Plans Changes. New administrator Sal Petilos assumes the helm as the commission faces staff shortages, a backlog of license applications and a federal lawsuit. Civil Beat.

State proposes Waiahole bridge substitute. The replacement proposal comes following structural deficiencies on the bridge, which is located on Kamehameha Highway in Waiahole Valley, south of Waiahole Valley Road. Star-Advertiser.

North Shore residents propose hub for first responders in place of a long-planned retail development. North Shore residents propose hub for first responders in place of a long-planned retail development. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Pay hikes of more than 22% recommended for county administrators. Under a proposal by the county Salary Commission, those individuals would receive a 22.44% pay increase, effective Jan. 1, 2024, and another 5% effective July 1, 2024. Tribune-Herald.

Honua Ola sues Hawaiian Electric for $1B. Honua Ola Bioenergy is seeking more than $1 billion in damages from Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., claiming in federal court that the electric utility has used monopolistic measures to keep Honua Ola’s completed but idle biomass power plant from going online. Tribune-Herald.

‘It’s a huge punch in the gut’: Surf school lottery ends with three of four permits awarded to one owner. Emotions were running high Friday at Makaeo Pavilion as the Department of Land and Natural Resources held a lottery to determine which four surf schools could operate at Kahalu‘u Beach. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Regenerative tourism seen as key to future of Hawaii’s visitor economy.
A vibrant rainbow burst from the clouds as Kamalei and Cierra Kawa‘a performed at the Haleki‘i-Pihana Heiau — the first stop on a tour of historical and cultural sites on Maui during the 22nd annual Native Hawaiian Convention in a showcase of what regenerative tourism looks and feels like from a Native Hawaiian perspective. Star-Advertiser.

State proposes public hunting area in Kanaio.
The state is seeking to establish a mixed-used public hunting area in Kanaio that it hopes could help reduce axis deer herds and allow for the construction of firebreaks on the southeast slope of Haleakala where fire potential has increased in recent years, according to state documents. Maui News.

Hana nonprofit acquires more land in mission of preserving East Maui coast. A Hana-based nonprofit has completed the purchase of 8.6 acres of Hamoa lands for permanent cultural preservation and stewardship, the latest step in the organization’s long-term plan to preserve 150 acres of East Maui coastal lands. Maui News.

New Wailuku parking garage set to open next month with 393 stalls. A blessing ceremony was held Friday for the new Wailuku parking garage, as the contractor handed off the new facility to the County of Maui. The four-story, 393-stall parking structure is scheduled to open in early December.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Rainy season affecting water quality on Kaua‘i.
The Surfrider Foundation has released its Nov. 11 water quality results for the island, with its senior scientist attributing higher than average bacteria levels at many of the tested sites to the beginning of the rainy season. Garden Island.

Brush fire scorches 10 acres in Hanapepe, put out by firefighters, landowner. Multiple firefighting personnel from the Hanapepe and Kalaheo stations responded around 6:45 p.m. to the scene of the brush fire, which was located on property owned by Gay &Robinson. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Lawsuit dropped after Green revises housing proclamation, Maui releases 2018 wildfire after-action report, Hawaii County officials in line for raises, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green revamps housing proclamation. Gov. Josh Green on Tuesday issued a third emergency proclamation to stimulate development of affordable housing, satisfying plaintiffs who withdrew a lawsuit they had filed over concerns that Green’s proclamation removed safeguards on protecting the environment, cultural resources and government transparency. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

 Hawaii Bribery Scandal Casts A Shadow Over Lahaina’s Ruins. For years, a local businessman paid off officials in exchange for lucrative contracts. The system he exploited has been left largely unchanged. An examination of one of the state’s largest bribery cases reveals a county procurement system that may be ill-equipped to handle the millions of dollars it will spend following the devastating wildfires on Maui.  Civil Beat.

DHHL proposes 10 legislative measures to reduce its housing waitlist. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is considering legislation to reduce its waitlist, which currently includes more than 28,000 Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. Proposals boast everything from general excise tax exemptions for DHHL developments to allowing in-house historic preservation reviews of homeland projects. Hawaii Public Radio.

33 states, including Hawaii, sue Meta over alleged harm to kids’ mental health. Dozens of U.S. states, including Hawaii, California and New York, are suing Meta Platforms Inc. for harming young people and contributing to the youth mental health crisis by knowingly and deliberately designing features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children to its platforms. Associated Press. Civil Beat.

Researchers coring into ancient reefs off Hawaii seek to mend fences after uproar. UK-based researchers taking samples of the ocean floor off Hawaii Island don’t appear to be breaking any rules, but they are drawing criticism. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Impaired-driving arrests on Oahu top 1,500. As of Oct. 3 there were 1,574 arrests for operating a vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant, compared with 1,587 at the same time in 2022, HPD reported. Star-Advertiser.

Relief in the works for businesses affected by Dillingham rail construction.
Rail construction keeps hurting businesses in Kalihi, but the city is still trying to figure out how to provide them with financial aid. Hawaii News Now.

Trial begins for Hawaii couple accused of stealing dead babies’ identities. According to prosecutors, Walter Glenn Primrose and Gwynn Darle Morrison are the real names of the couple who have been fraudulently living for decades under stolen identities Bobby Fort and Julie Montague. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County officials could be next to receive pay raises. The Hawaii County Salary Commission has not adjusted pay for executive, elected or appointed officials since March 2018. Meanwhile, employees covered by collective bargaining have received raises over the years. KHON2.

Army set to conduct large-scale exercise.
Tropic Lightning Soldiers from the Army’s 25th Infantry Division will participate in the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center, an Army training operation to be held on the Big Island and Oahu primarily from Nov. 1 through Nov. 10. Tribune-Herald.

Ex-assistant police chief charged with numerous offenses. Mitchell Kanehailua Jr., 57, of Hilo was arrested Sunday morning and charged Monday evening with violating a restraining order, first-degree attempted burglary, third-degree assault and third-degree attempted assault. Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

North Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor Breakwater Improvements Planned. The Hawaiʻi DLNR is seeking to improve the small boat harbor's damaged main breakwater to better withstand winter swells. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Panel is urged to restore West Maui stream flows.
Some 200 people packed Tuesday’s meeting of the state Commission on Water Resource Management on Maui, many of them urging the restoration of stream flows in the Lahaina area. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

State House members to tour Lahaina’s Mala Wharf. Members of the state House Finance Committee plan to visit Maui’s Soil &Water Conservation District today and Lahaina’s Mala Wharf on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Report On 2018 Lahaina Fire Failed To Address Issues That Reappeared Five Years Later.
Community criticism about a lack of emergency alerts, sirens and fire prevention didn't make it into the report. A report on the shortcomings of Maui County’s response to a 2018 fire failed to address many problems identified by residents at the time, according to a copy of the document released Tuesday.  Civil Beat. KITV4.

2 years ago, Maui County-funded commission sounded the alarm about wildfire risks. A 2021 report from a publicly-funded commission identifies key solutions to the wildfire risk threatening Maui, but it’s unclear if Maui County acted on the findings. Members of the commission say there was never any government follow-up. Hawaii News Now.

Oprah And Dwayne Johnson’s Relief Fund Has Paid Out $19 Million.
The People’s Fund of Maui established by Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson will disburse its second round of $1,200 payments this week. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kaua‘i sewer credit applications accepted from Nov. 1 to Jan. 2.
  Qualified sewer customers shall be granted a monthly credit of $24 per month for 2024. Kauai Now.

Kapa‘a community celebrates $750K renovation of Boys & Girls clubhouse. The building serves 100 keiki and provides a safe place to go after school with meals they can count on, caring mentors who believe in them and meaningful life experiences empowering them to discover their great futures. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Green sticks to Maui tourist reopening plan despite petitions, personal attacks; EPA approves Red Hill defueling plan, UH cloning pioneer Ryuzo Yanagimachi dies at 95, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Governor Sticks To Reopening West Maui To Tourists Next Week. A group of local activists and politicians delivered a petition with more than 14,000 signatures to Gov. Josh Green’s office on Tuesday, imploring him to put off reopening West Maui to tourism. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Governor’s absence fuels anger at West Maui anti-tourism rally. Governor: People threatening him are calling his personal cell, targeting his kids. The governor and First Lady Jaime Green say racist threats and harassment aimed at them increased after the wildfires and are even being sent directly to the governor’s personal cell phone. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii’s Aquaculture Industry Is Set To Boom But It Needs State Help. Sales of Hawaii’s aquaculture products jumped by 12% in 2022 and production has more than tripled in the past 20 years, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, bucking the statewide trend of declining agriculture. Civil Beat.

Nationwide emergency alert test set for Wednesday on phones, TV.  The test is slated to start at 8:20 a.m. Hawaii Time Wednesday. Associated Press. Hawaii Public Radio.  Big Island Now.

Hawaii DOE Names 2024 State Teacher Of The Year.
The Department of Education recognized Jackie Freitas for her dedication to her students and colleagues at Leilehua High School. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii cloning pioneer Ryuzo Yanagimachi dies at 95. Ryuzo Yanagimachi, a renowned University of Hawaii fertility researcher who created the technique to develop the world’s first cloned mouse, died last week at the age of 95. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

EPA approves Navy’s Red Hill defueling plan. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Tuesday that it has approved the military’s plan to defuel the Navy’s underground Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, set to begin Oct. 16. Star-Advertiser.

New Vacancy Opens On Honolulu Salary Commission. David Hayakawa resigned from the volunteer commission last week due to his appointment to the First Circuit District Court. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Responds To ACLU Homelessness Lawsuit. Two months after the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against the City and County of Honolulu over its policies on homeless encampments, the City has responded saying the allegations won’t hold up. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit-generating Palolo roadway reopens. Over a period of years, a Palolo Valley neighborhood reportedly suffered a slow but inexorable underground landslide that caused its roads to buckle, its hills to erode, its houses to slide, its waterlines to break and burst, and its retaining walls to crack and crash into neighboring properties. Star-Advertiser.

Queen’s specialized nurses picket for better contract. Dozens of specialized nurses held a picket Monday evening at The Queen’s Medical Center to express their frustration over lack of progress in their third month of contract negotiations. Star-Advertiser.

Waianae-Castle prep football game canceled following threats. A football game between Castle and Waianae high schools that was scheduled for Friday has been canceled to “prioritize the safety and well-being of our students,” the principals of both schools announced in a joint letter. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi County Managing Director To Retire At End Of 2023. Managing Director Lee Lord has announced that he will retire at the end of the year to assist in caring for aging family members.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

County settles suit over concealed-carry permit application. Hawaii County has come to an agreement with the plaintiff in a federal lawsuit who argued the county’s requirement he sign a waiver of liability for a background check as part of the concealed-carry firearms permit application violates his constitutional right to privacy. Tribune-Herald.

Council members mull plan to allow county to fix streets in private subdivisions — with caveats. A plan to allow Hawaii County to conduct maintenance on private subdivision roads received some tentative support Tuesday from County Council members. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i County conducts park rules enforcement at Honl’s Beach. The Hawaiʻi County Department of Parks and Recreation, in coordination with the Hawaiʻi Police Department, the Office of Housing and Community Development, and various other State agencies and nongovernment service providers, conducted a park rules enforcement effort at Honl’s Beach in Kailua-Kona. Big Island Now.

Pepeekeo land eyed for preservation. A large tract of land along the Pepeekeo coast is being considered for Hawaii County acquisition and preservation. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Holds Town Hall In Pāhoa.
Mayor Mith Roth and his administration met with the Puna community in Pāhoa on Tuesday night, in a continuation of his ongoing town hall series that is being held across Hawaiʻi island. Big Island Video News.

Maui

State says it will likely take months before commercial boats can launch out of West Maui.
Mala Warf is the only remaining boat ramp in west Maui following the Aug. 8 fires. The Mala ramp is in the burn zone and is currently closed to the public, but the state says it hopes to reopen it within the next 30-60 days. Hawaii News Now.

Maui police raise county’s official wildfire death toll to 98
. Maui police updated the county’s official fire death toll to 98 on Tuesday, four days after a Lahaina woman’s family confirmed she had died from injuries sustained in the Aug. 8 wildfire. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

New Housing Program Launched To Assist Lahaina Fire Survivors. The $4 million pilot program will provide participants $375 per month per displaced person they house. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  Star-Advertiser. KITV4.  Civil Beat.

Owners at large Maui hotel-condo say they’re being forced to evict wildfire evacuees
. The state is investigating the Honua Kai Condominium Association, one of the largest hotel-condominiums in West Maui after some owners alleged they were being forced to evict wildfire evacuees. Hawaii News Now.

Restrictions to be lifted for Zones 2A, 2B and 2F including parts of Malo and Malalani streets, Kalani, Kekai and ʻĀinakea roads. Disaster area restrictions will be lifted on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 6 and 7, for owners and residents of Zones 2A, 2B and 2F. This includes parts of Malo St., Kalani Rd., Kekai Rd., ʻĀinakea Rd., and Malanai St. Maui Now. KITV4.

Could West Maui’s Old Cane Haul Road Have Helped More People Escape The Fire? A longstanding project to convert the alternate path into a paved trail and evacuation route has been stuck in "perpetual planning." Civil Beat.

Kauai

Clean Energy series tackles potential waste incineration this Thursday, Saturday. The Kaua‘i County Council is considering pyrolysis, gasification and direct combustion of the island’s waste. Kauai Now.

Former county council candidate in legal trouble. Wally Nishimura, who allegedly abused a teenage family member earlier this year, appeared in Fifth Circuit Court on Tuesday, at which a date was set for him to either accept a guilty plea or head to trial. Garden Island.

KCC staff, volunteers work to keep Kauaʻi honey bees free of disease. Some of the state’s last honey bee colonies without disease are on Kauaʻi, and beekeepers are trying to keep it that way. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Hawaii awaits $2.8B for infrastructure, Bezos, Oprah buy land on Maui, no third trial for Deedy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2021 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Roadwork in Hawaii ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii construction industry to see most of $2.8 billion federal infrastructure funds.  At least $2.8 billion in federal money is now available to improve Hawaii roads, bridges, airports, water systems, broadband internet and more under a congressional bill signed into law Monday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Despite strong vaccination rates, Hawaii’s Safe Travels program likely isn’t ending anytime soon
. The policy has been in place a little more than a year. It requires anyone entering the state to either be vaccinated or have gotten a negative coronavirus test within 72 hours of arrival in order to bypass a 10-day quarantine. Hawaii News Now.

What Salary Records Tell Us About Who Earns The Big Bucks In The Department of Education. Some newer administrative roles in the DOE’s salary records in recent years fetch high salaries. Civil Beat.

Congressmen Seek Reforms After ‘Damning’ Audit Of Pacific Fisheries Fund. The long-awaited federal audit of a secretive fund managed by the Western Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Council is “just the beginning” of a congressional inquiry, Hawaii U.S. Rep. Ed Case said in a joint news release Monday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii ranks last for finding lung cancer early. While Hawaii has fared better than most states when it comes to its overall rate of lung cancer, it’s still the most deadly form of cancer in the state, killing on average of more than 500 residents annually. Star-Advertiser.

Push for expanded COVID booster eligibility in Hawaii comes after NYC ruling. So far, 133,557 people have had their boosters in Hawaii. That is just 24% of who would be eligible if the state followed in New York City’s footsteps. KHON2.

Hawaii sees 95 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 85,885. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 33 new cases on Oahu, 25 on Hawaii Island, 16 on Maui, 19 on Kauai and two Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Property tax assessments jeopardize Oahu’s clean energy projects. The Honolulu City Council is weighing a bill that would provide renewable energy projects with substantial relief from an unexpected and steep increase in property taxes. Star-Advertiser.

No third trial for federal agent Christopher Deedy in 2011 fatal shooting of Kollin Elderts. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm on Monday announced he will not proceed with further prosecution of Christopher Deedy, the federal agent who fatally shot a man at a Waikiki fast-food restaurant 10 years ago. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Gas Co. to pay $230K for Clean Air violations. The Gas Co. LLC has agreed to pay a $230,000 fine for Clean Air Act violations at its synthetic natural gas facility in Kapolei, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Monday. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

New council districts slowly taking shape.
Ever try to share a too-small blanket on a chilly night? Yanking on one side to cover one person leaves the other cold. Trying to drag nine County Council districts over the breadth and width of Hawaii Island is like that. West Hawaii Today.

Report: Expect vehicle shortages to linger. The third quarter report sponsored by the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association predicts that limited availability of new personal vehicles due to microchip shortages and other supply-chain issues related to the novel coronavirus pandemic likely will last ”well into 2022.” Tribune-Herald.

Hilton Waikoloa Village offers cash incentive to attract new employees. Hawaii Island’s largest resort is offering a $1,000 sign-on bonus for new employees. The hotel is hoping to fill nearly a hundred positions, including housekeepers, chefs, restaurant servers and massage therapists. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui County Council to discuss regulating bike tours today. Bicycle tours operating in the Pāʻia-Haʻikū and Makawao-Pukalani-Kula community plan areas will be reviewed. Residents in the area have expressed concerns about bicycle tours crowding the roads. Hawaii Public Radio.

Adding emergency runway lights at Kapalua Airport could benefit west Maui community. The Kapalua Airport was built in the 1980s with a promise to only operate during daylight hours, at the request of nearby residents. Hawaii Public Radio.

Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos Reportedly Shells Out $78 Million on Remote Beachfront Property Off La Perouse. Amazon founder and executive chairman, Jeff Bezos reportedly purchased a remote 14-acre oceanfront estate, 12 miles south of Kīhei. The property is reportedly surrounded by rocky lava fields and state parkland. Maui Now.

Oprah Buys More Property on Maui
. Oprah Winfrey is back again at shopping for Maui real estate, as the billionaire media mogul has recently purchased a three-acre property in Kula on Maui that’s adjacent to the other properties she owns on the Valley Isle, according to public records. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i has highest COVID rate per capita in state. As of Monday, the county has 129 active COVID-19 cases, with 11 hospitalized. Garden Island.

East Side bike path regulars restore damaged signs. A frequent visitor to Ke Ala Hele Makalae, the multi-use path from Lydgate Beach Park to Ahihi Point, has fulfilled a longtime wish to restore its defaced signage. Garden Island.

Monday, March 1, 2021

Hawaii tourism looking up, Mayor to act on Maui coronavirus outbreak, $70M more for Honolulu rail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2021 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii beach scene ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s Summer Tourism Season Is Looking Promising. Hawaii’s economy is poised for a significant recovery over the next six months, as pent-up demand for travel coincides with vaccinations on the mainland and an expected new wave of federal stimulus money in March. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige again withholds funding for corrections oversight staff. Two years ago the Legislature passed what was hailed as major corrections reform: It placed the Department of Public Safety, which oversees the state’s jails and prisons, under the oversight of a five-member commission. Star-Advertiser.

House Committee Advances Bill to Dissolve the Agribusiness Development Corporation. The 27-year-old entity was initially created to develop economically viable farms to fill the void created by the closure of plantations. But a recent state audit found it has done little to fill that void. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill to reduce blood-alcohol threshold for drunken driving up for full vote on Senate floor.
Senate Bill 754 would reduce the blood-alcohol content level for being arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant from 0.08% to 0.05%. West Hawaii Today.

Bills that would place limit on emergency beach sandbags in Hawaii shelved. Bills that would limit how long oceanfront property owners can keep stacks of emergency sandbags and heavy tarps along the public beach to protect their homes, resorts and condos from being damaged by waves are dead for the year. Star-Advertiser.

Kenji Price: An Uncertain Future For A Republican In Deep Blue Hawaii. Hawaii’s charismatic U.S. attorney is an up and coming conservative. Hawaii’s GOP would love to talk him into running for office here. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Hawaii’s acting state epidemiologist calls for reopening public schools. Dr. Sarah Kemble, acting state epidemiologist, says Hawaii’s public schools should resume in-person classes as soon as possible because children can come back safely and are missing out on too much. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Preschools See Declines In Enrollment And Available Seats. Private pre-kindergarten programs have lost $7 million in tuition as fewer families send children to school, according to the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools. Civil Beat.

A year of COVID-19: Key leaders in Hawaii’s pandemic response recall the challenges they faced. On March 5, Gov. David Ige declared a state of emergency after the death of a passenger from California on a cruise ship that visited the islands. The next day, Ige announced the state’s first COVID-19 case — a Hawaii resident who sailed on the Grand Princess in February. Star-Advertiser.

Few in Hawaii spared the far-reaching consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. COVID-19 was just emerging as a public- health threat in Hawaii when Coby Torda started experiencing flu-like symptoms after coming home from work as a bartender at a Waikiki club March 9. Star-Advertiser.

Feb. 28, 2021 COVID-19 Update. There were 60 new COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Sunday, including 39 on O‘ahu, 15 on Maui, four on Hawai‘i Island, and two in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed out-of-state. Maui Now.

Oahu

O'ahu Neighborhood Boards Could Get a Reboot. Another election season has just begun on O'ahu. Candidates for this year's Neighborhood Board elections have all submitted their registrations, and elections are coming up for these grassroots positions. Hawaii Public Radio.

$70 Million Secured for Honolulu Rail Project in New COVID-19 Relief Bill. US Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), helped secure $70 million for the Honolulu Rail Transit Project. The new federal funding will help the City and County of Honolulu pay for a portion of its share of the cost of the project, making up for the loss in tax revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Report recommends no salary increases for Honolulu’s top officials. The mayor and City Council members won’t be getting salary increases, according to a report presented by a group within the Honolulu Salary Commission. Star-Advertiser.

In internal video, police chief says 263 officers abused overtime policy. Honolulu’s police chief said in an internal video message to rank and file on Friday that overtime abuse within the department involved hundreds of officers. Hawaii News Now.

City wants to move forward with project to address safety issues atop Koko Crater. The city wants to move forward with a safety improvement project atop Koko Crater, but community members worry it will change the iconic view. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

DOH advises public to avoid Kailua Bay after large discharges of wastewater. The Department of Health directed the city to post warning signs at Kailua Bay for possible large amounts of bacteria in the water near the wastewater treatment plant. Hawaii News Now.

Next Ward Village condo tower about to rise. The developer of Ward Village in Kakaako anticipates starting construction on another condominium tower by the end of the month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

No data for maps: Redistricting commission meets Monday. A commission that redraws County Council district boundary lines every 10 years plans an initial meeting Monday, but the numbers it needs to make its decisions have been delayed. West Hawaii Today.

Land Board hears three options for Pohoiki ramp restoration. Restoration of the Pohoiki boat ramp could take months — or even years. Tribune-Herald.

State fines pair of aquarium fishers record $272K. The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted unanimously Friday to fine two Big Island aquarium fishers $272,000 in civil fines stemming from an illegal aquarium fishing incident in Kona in 2020. West Hawaii Today. Hawaii News Now.

Businesses, attractions struggle as cruise ships still months away from returning.
It has been nearly one year since cruise ships stopped service to Hawaii, and there is no hint of when they might return. Tribune-Herald.

Honing their skills. Enduring cold temperatures, high winds and rain, 800 soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division from Schofield Barracks are honing their skills at Pohakuloa Training Area. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Victorino considers additional restrictions after variant, more clusters found on Maui. The Hawaii Department of Health reported 75 new cases of COVID-19 in Maui County.  This includes 31 historical cases dating back to November 9, 2020 and 19 cases from the Maui Community Correctional Center cluster, nine cases attributed to a Pacific Islander cluster and seven resulting from a bar and restaurant cluster. KITV4.

DOH: Uptick in Maui cases connected to virus variant. A COVID-19 variant that has spread widely in California has been associated with a recent uptick in cases on Maui, Hawaii’s acting state epidemiologist said Friday.  Maui News.

Maui High School welcomes back staff, 650 students. Maui High is one of many Maui schools to transition to a blended learning format that mixes both in-person and online instruction. Maui News.

Kauai

Weather hampers whale-counters. Most of the whales came early, said Carol Everett, sanctuary site leader at Kaiwa Point Saturday, when the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and the Pacific Whale Foundation conducted the second of three coordinated whale counts for 2021. Garden Island.

DHHL seeking input on General Plan. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is seeking beneficiary input as part of its 2022 General Plan update beneficiary-consultation process. Garden Island.

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Feds give green light to test incoming tourists, COVID-19 complicates hurricane response, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park opens some trails, libraries reopen book drops, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2018 file photo
Downtown Hilo during Hurricane Lane 2018 file photo
Hawaii Braces For A Dual Threat: Hurricanes And COVID-19. The pandemic will make Hawaii’s response to a natural disaster even more daunting, officials say. Civil Beat.

State grapples with preparing for hurricane season amid COVID-19 pandemic. The National Weather Service is predicting two to six tropical cyclones over the course of the 2020 hurricane season in the Central Pacific. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane season could be complicated by coronavirus response. The Central Pacific is expected to see two to six tropical cyclones for the annual hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, events that could be complicated by the new coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Masks and hand sanitizers essential in hurricane supply kit. Add on masks and hand sanitizers to your 14-day hurricane supply kit. That’s according to emergency officials, who say COVID-19 also poses unique challenges if evacuations are needed. KHON2.

As pandemic continues, Hawaii readies for hurricane season. The Big Island’s Civil Defense chief said his agency is “ramped up as much as we can be” for the upcoming start of hurricane season because of the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Virus prompts changes for hurricane evacuation shelters. New requirements will be in place at Hawaii’s hurricane evacuation shelters, should they need to be used amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. West Hawaii Today.

Hurricane season ahead: Forecast calls for 2-6 tropical cyclones in Central Pacific. Forecasters are calling for near- to below-normal tropical cyclone activity within the Central Pacific this hurricane season. West Hawaii Today.

2 to 6 tropical cyclones forecast for Central Pacific in 2020. The Central Pacific is expected to see two to six tropical cyclones for the annual hurricane season that runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, officials said today. Star-Advertiser.

2020 hurricane season prediction: 2-6 cyclones. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting between two and six tropical cyclones in the Central Pacific hurricane region in the upcoming 2020 hurricane season. Garden Island.

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Feds give green light to test tourists prior to their arrival in Hawaii. Nothing in the Federal Aviation Administration or the United States Department of Transportation regulations that prohibits the state from requiring such testing. KITV4.

A negative COVID-19 test before landing in Hawaii? Some lawmakers push the idea. Hawaii lawmakers are discussing multiple efforts to restarting tourism while keeping the coronavirus out. Passengers could avoid quarantine by testing negative for the virus before coming to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

More lawmakers call for COVID-19 tests in passenger screenings. U.S. Transportation officials have told state lawmakers the federal government cannot prevent a COVID-19 testing program for travelers, but the state cannot stop someone who does not want to be tested from boarding a plane. KHON2.

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Hawaii Prosecutors Want COVID-19 Inmate Releases Stopped. The state has released more than 800 inmates since early March. Three county prosecutors say the public safety risk outweighs COVID-19 dangers. Civil Beat.

Honolulu police already have rearrested 47 people who were released from jail in recent weeks as part of the effort to reduce the inmate population to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the state correctional system, lawmakers were told Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

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Waipahu hit hard by joblessness, stats show. A breakdown of nearly 150,000 initial unemployment claims by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations also shows that four of the 10 ZIP codes with the highest number of claims in the tally are on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel occupancy plunged 88% in April compared to 2019. Fewer than one out of every 10 hotel rooms was occupied in Hawaii in April as the coronavirus lockdown devastated one of the nation’s top hotel markets. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Summer School to Include Some In-Person Instruction. The Hawaii State Department of Education will begin offering summer school on June 1. The classes will be provided with a mixed approach of both distance learning and in-person instruction. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Hawaii’s libraries prepare to start a new chapter as branches slowly resume service. All 51 branches of the Hawaii State Public Library System have been closed for more than two months. Hawaii News Now.

Library book drops are open. The Hawai‘i State Public Library System announced that library book drops are now open to return library materials. Garden Island.

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VIRUS TRACKER — MAY 20: 2 More COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. New coronavirus cases were confirmed in Hawaii County and on Oahu Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Two new coronavirus cases in Hawaii bring statewide total to 643. Hawaii’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen by two cases to a total of 643, the state Department of Health announced today. Star-Advertiser.

DOH Reports 2 New COVID-19 Cases Statewide. Two new COVID-19 cases — one in Honolulu County and one in Hawai‘i County —  brings the state total of cases to 643, according to the Hawai‘i Department of Health. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Solar heaters, EV-ready stalls to be required in new houses. Requiring new houses come installed with solar hot water heaters and mandating that all new buildings set aside parking stalls that can be used to recharge electric vehicles are among the changes in a planned revamp of Honolulu’s energy code that won final approval from the City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Pay Keeps Flowing For Accused Honolulu Officials On Leave. Accused workers are presumed innocent, but some question whether they should continue to be paid as months turn into years. Civil Beat.

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Hanabusa Officially Running To Be Honolulu Mayor. The former congresswoman says her federal and state experience is critical in the wake of COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Colleen Hanabusa touts political experience as she enters Honolulu mayoral race. Former Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa has officially filed her papers to run for Honolulu mayor. Hawaii News Now.

Former Representative Colleen Hanabusa running for Honolulu Mayor. It is official, former Hawaii U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusa is running for Honolulu Mayor. KITV4.

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Queen’s resumes non-emergency surgeries at main Honolulu operating room. The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu resumed non-emergency surgeries today at its main operating room after gradually reopening clinics and other outpatient services over the past three weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Coal Plant Vows To Reduce Carbon Emissions. AES Hawaii’s announcement came after the Sierra Club filed suit asking the state to impose a lower standard required by law. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Developing A Major Expansion Of COVID-19 Testing. The city is working with health centers across Oahu to expand testing in targeted communities, hoping to augment the state’s programs. Civil Beat.


Oahu retailers struggling to climb out of slump from COVID-19 closures. Although many shopping malls and retailers reopened their doors Friday, the abrupt closures due to the coronavirus pandemic have taken a toll. Star-Advertiser.

Marilyn Bornhorst, former Honolulu city councilwoman, dies at age 93. Marilyn Bornhorst, a forward-thinking former Honolulu City Council woman who helped preserve open views along the Ka Iwi coastline, promoted the idea for what today is Kakaako’s largest public green space and helped community organizations navigate the political landscape, has died. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

New tax tier for luxury homes. Council also approves raises for some employees while prepping for budget work. With serious work on the coronavirus-stricken county budget set to begin today, the County Council on Wednesday set up a property tax structure that would allow it to tax $2 million-plus second homes at a higher rate than other residential property. West Hawaii Today.

Council supports grant award to reopen access to Puna farms. The Hawaii County Council voted in support of a resolution to award a $50,000 grant to a Puna nonprofit to reopen access to Puna farms isolated by lava. Tribune-Herald.

Ruderman won’t seek third Senate term. State Sen. Russell Ruderman of Puna announced today he would not seek a third term. Tribune-Herald.

Public Comment Sought On Draft Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. The comment period runs from May 19 to June 2, and the County is planning a virtual presentation over the internet set for May 27. Big Island Video News.

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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Reopens Sections For Public Use. Some areas of the park have been reopened following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and state and local authorities. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park begins phased reopening. Parts of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park have reopened to the public for limited use as the park begins its phased reopening plan. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Memorial Medical Center declares COVID-19 outbreak ‘closed’. Hawaii’s largest coronavirus outbreak at Maui Memorial Medical Center in Kahului is now considered over. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

CARES Act funding for Kaua‘i housing. The county’s Housing Agency received community development funds to soften the blow of the coronavirus crisis across public services and by providing new facilities, including the first of a series of tiny house villages. Garden Island.

Friday, May 15, 2020

Raises nixed for top state officials, Honolulu plans to allow dine-in, modified lockdown to be extended through June, Ironman postponed, Maui fair canceled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PC: Charles Freedman
Hawaii Capitol interior PC:Charles Freedman
Top State Officials Likely Won’t Get Pay Raises This Year. Gov. David Ige and his cabinet, state judges and lawmakers wouldn’t get pay raises this year under a proposal that won approval of a key panel of senators Thursday. Civil Beat.

Bill Seeks to Defer Salary Increases for Executive, Judicial, and Legislative Branches in Hawai‘i. The Senate Ways and Means Committee today approved House Bill 117 SD1, a bill to defer salary increases as recommended by the State Commission on Salaries for executive, judicial, and legislative government officials. Maui Now.

House bill deferring salary bumps for gov’t officials move to second reading. The Senate Ways and Means Committee on May 14 approved House Bill 117 SD1, a bill to defer salary increases as recommended by the State Commission on Salaries for executive, judicial, and legislative government officials. KHON2.

Many government officials may not be getting a pay raise this fiscal year. On Thursday the Senate Ways and Means Committee approved a measure to defer pay increases for members of the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches of government. KITV4.

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Gov. David Ige plans to extend Hawaii’s safer-at-home order through June 30. The governor said the state will consider reopening medium risk businesses as indoor dining restaurants, hair salons and barber shops. Star-Advertiser.

Governor says he’ll extend ’safer-at-home’ order through June, but lift more restrictions. Hawaii News Now.

Ige Wants To Extend Hawaii’s Travel Quarantine Through June. During a Facebook Live broadcast Thursday, Ige said he is looking to extend the quarantine, as well as the state’s “safer-at-home” mandate, through June. In the meantime, he and state officials will announce another round of businesses that may reopen and what kinds of activities may resume in the weeks to come. Civil Beat.

Governor To Extend “Safer-At-Home” Mandate Through June. Governor David Ige says he told the county mayors' that his intention is to extend the safer-at-home mandate through the end of June. Big Island Video News.

Governor Ige considering extending the 'safer at home' order until end of June. On Thursday afternoon Governor David Ige said he's considering extending his "Safer at Home" order until the end of June. KITV4.

Ige inclined to keep at-home order until June 30. Gov. David Ige said Thursday he’s inclined to extend his “safer-at-home” order through the end of June to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Associated Press.

Governor Ige: Hawai‘i’s “Safer-At-Home” Order Will Likely Be Extended Through End of June. Maui Now.

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Senator claims state dragging its feet on thermal screenings, mass testings at airports. Installing $20 million in thermal screening devices at Hawaii’s airports is a key part of re-opening the state’s tourism economy. But one state lawmaker said the devices won’t be available soon enough and he blames the state for the delays. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii officials pass the blame for loopholes in mandatory quarantine for incoming passengers. Hawaii’s plan for economic and community recovery and resilience hinges on collaboration, but city and state leaders are still fighting over who is to blame for loopholes in the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine for incoming passengers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials told visitors not to come here on vacation, but some are doing it anyway. Even with tourism lockdowns in place, arguably the nation’s strictest, some of the visitors that came to Hawaii by air on Wednesday said they were coming for vacation. Star-Advertiser.

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Bolstering contact tracing. Hawai‘i state officials are doubling down on COVID19 contact tracing efforts, with a new training program from University of Hawai‘i and the Hawai‘i Department of Health. Garden Island

More than a dozen inmates granted early release amid pandemic have been re-arrested. Law enforcement authorities in Hawaii have re-arrested at least a dozen people who had been granted early release from jails because of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii to tap ‘Pandemic EBT’ program for an extra $25M in food aid. State officials plan to start a new program that will allow all families with children who receive free lunches at public schools to also get help from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as food stamps. Star-Advertiser.

DOE Is Opening Up Classrooms This Summer For Some Students. The schools superintendent said in-person instruction will be reserved for students who are struggling with virtual learning. Civil Beat.

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Lt. Gov. Josh Green opening free medical clinic in Honolulu for those unemployed, uninsured due to coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii’s lieutenant governor is opening a free clinic to specifically treat the recently unemployed who have lost their health insurance due to the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. governor, community doctor sets up Aloha Free Clinic to help the uninsured. Help is on the way for those whose health insurance benefits are about expire. KHON2.

Army of volunteers assembled to staff free health clinic for Hawaii’s newly uninsured. In addition to in-person visits, the free clinic plans to offer tele-medicine so providers can connect with patients living on neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

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No New COVID-19 Cases Reported In Hawaii. For two weeks, there have been fewer than six new cases reported each day. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i Reports Zero New COVID-19 Cases Thursday. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported zero new cases of COVID-19 Thursday for the second time since the pandemic began in the state, and actually reduced the case count from 638 to 637 statewide by lowering the out-of-state diagnoses from 11 to 10. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii sees large spike in applications for food stamps. That increase reversed a trend throughout the first three months of the year, when the number of SNAP recipients was consistently lower each month than in 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell wants to allow dining in at restaurants by June 5. Oahu residents could be sitting down in restaurants again on June 5. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is asking for the governor’s approval, and the governor seems to be open to the idea. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell allows limited use of parks, religious activities. Mayor Kirk Caldwell extended his “safer-from-home” emergency order, with modifications, through June 30, and called for Gov. David Ige to allow indoor dining at Oahu restaurants starting June 5. Star-Advertiser.

Phase one of O'ahu re-opening kicks off Friday May 15. O'ahus retail shops and shopping malls have the green light to open at 12:01 am on Friday. KITV4.

Outdoor sports fields, courts in Honolulu to open with limitations. But with the threat of the virus still looming, some activities will not be enjoyed. KHON2.

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Oahu retailers make one final disinfecting sweep before opening doors to customers.  Merchants across Oahu have been sanitizing, posting social-distancing signs, and trying to figure out a new shopping normal. Hawaii News Now.

HART: Utility Work In Town Will Cost At Least $135M More Than Expected. Rail officials didn’t have a clear idea of how much the relocation work would cost when they awarded the contract to get it going. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ironman postponed. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced Kailua-Kona’s biggest sporting event — the Ironman World Championship — to be postponed until 2021, an economic hit for Hawaii Island, which depends on the race bringing in thousands of visitors every year in the month of October. West Hawaii Today.

2020 IRONMAN World Championship In Kona Postponed Due To COVID-19. The World Championship has been rescheduled for February 6, 2021, but the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship has also been postponed with no date option determined. Big Island Video News.

IRONMAN Postpones World Championship Until February. For the first time in years, Kailua-Kona won’t host the IRONMAN World Championship in October. Big Island Now.

Maui

Home delivery, takeout of liquor is approved. Despite the majority of community testimony opposing takeout and home delivery for alcoholic drinks, the county Liquor Control Commission unanimously approved the measures during its meeting Wednesday in a boost for floundering restaurant owners. Maui News.

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COVID-19 forces cancellation of Maui Fair. The 98th Maui Fair has been postponed till next year due to concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, according to fair officials and Mayor Michael Victorino. Maui News.

Organizers agree to cancel Maui Fair at county’s request, just 5th time in history. Organizers today announced the 98th Maui Fair that was set for Oct. 1 to 4 has been called off at the request of the county due to the large crowds it attracts. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Fair CANCELED at Request of County Amid COVID-19 Health Concerns. The 98th Maui Fair, which was scheduled to take place over four days in October, is cancelled for this year due to public health concerns. Maui Now.

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$5.1B CIP budget focuses on projects that are ready to go. A Senate committee agreed Wednesday on a $5.1 billion capital improvement project budget that includes funding for Kaanapali Beach restoration, the widening of Puunene Avenue and other Maui County projects. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i temprarily adds hunting days for COVID19 response. Kaua‘i hunters are invited to apply for special use permits to hunt goats, pigs, and deer on closed hunting days in State Forest Reserves, Natural Area Reserves, and Game Management Areas. Garden Island.

Suicides Of 4 Young Men In A Week Raise Alarm On Kauai. On Kauai, suicide is an old problem. But it’s gaining new urgency as the island grapples with a spate of tragic deaths during the coronavirus pandemic. Civil Beat.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Hawaii's quiet holiday, politicians line up for 2020, 2022, contests, Honolulu vacation rental operators strive for deal with city, Kauai ex-police chief sues over termination, Maui councilwoman chided by ethics board, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii State Archives
Statehood Day, photo from Hawaii State Archives
Hawaii hits 6-0 as a state without fanfare. State and local government offices are closed today, and that’s about the only way the 60th anniversary of Hawaii becoming a state will be formally celebrated. Star-Advertiser.

With Hawaii’s primary election less than a year away, some big names begin to campaign. With Hawaii’s next primary election less than a year away and the governor’s office up for grabs in 2022, well-known politicians are thinking about future campaigns. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige has more than three years left in his second term as governor, but the race to replace him seems to already be taking shape. Two high-profile candidates are already raising money for the election, which takes place in 2022. Hawaii News Now.

A familiar name appears to be eyeing a run for Honolulu mayor in 2020. Former Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa has filed an organizational report for a mayoral candidate committee with the Campaign Spending Commission and has also launched a website. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii DOE Releases Revised Data on Student Suspensions. Release of the data comes amid efforts to correct what the DOE says was erroneous counts of students suspensions in the 2015-16 school year. Civil Beat.

Limited Training Options Worsen Hawaii’s Doctor Shortage. Officials estimate the state needs 800 more physicians, but the training pipeline for future doctors would need to expand three-fold to begin filling the gap. Civil Beat.

HMSA, Kaiser earnings rose in second quarter. Hawaii Medical Service Association, with 722,634 members in the quarter that ended June 30, reported a $14.4 million profit, down from $56.8 million a year ago, while Kaiser Permanente Hawaii posted $1.4 million in net income, reversing a $40.4 million year-earlier loss. Star-Advertiser.

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NOAA: ‘The Reefs Weren’t Damaged, They Were Just Gone’. Scientists return from the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument after surveying the underwater aftermath of a major storm last year. Civil Beat.

Hurricane destroyed reefs last year, NOAA finds. Scientists returning from a 22-day expedition to Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument aboard NOAA Ship Rainier on Thursday announced their findings, including the destruction of a significant reef by Hurricane Walaka. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Walaka’s legacy: Decimated reefs and invasive algae. Scientists who just completed underwater surveys in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands found significant reef damage caused by Hurricane Walaka last October that could adversely affect Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument for decades. Hawaii News Now.

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TMT law enforcement costs slowly being made public. The Honolulu Police Department spent $162,351 to assist the state’s law enforcement efforts on Mauna Kea where demonstrators have been blocking the road leading up to the construction site of the Thirty Meter Telescope for the past month. Star-Advertiser.

The cost of Honolulu Police sending law enforcement backup to Mauna Kea? Over $160K. The cost covers overtime, airfare, and shipping for vehicles. KITV.

Big Island police incident commander described ‘volatile’ day at Mauna Kea protest. Court documents offer more insight into the tense moments before and after 38 kupuna were arrested in a Thirty Meter Telescope protest at Mauna Kea on July 17. Hawaii News Now.

Decommissioning Mauna Kea Telescopes Not As Easy As Switching Off The Lights . Three of the thirteen telescopes on Mauna Kea are set to be decommissioned before the planned Thirty Meter Telescope is built. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Mauna Kea Management Board on Tuesday approved an action item that would establish commercial tour permittee stargazing areas, equipment storage and laydown areas, and traffic delineation in the mid-level area of the mountain. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

The city and the Kokua Coalition agreed Thursday to work together on a plan to allow so-called 30-day vacation rental operators to continue. The Kokua Coalition, also known as the Hawaii Vacation Rental Owners Association, had requested a temporary restraining order to stop the city from enforcing its new vacation rental ordinance that went into effect Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

Settlement progress reported in legal challenges to vacation rental law. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Rate Commission Weighs $2.75 Rail Fare In Seeking Public Comment. The Honolulu Rate Commission is considering whether rail fares should be lower or higher than a ride on TheBus. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Estate of Hawaii celebrity Jim Nabors goes to auction. Estate Liquidators Hawaii and Oahu Auctions present the Auction for the Estate of Hollywood celebrity Jim Nabors. KHON2.

Memorabilia, collectibles from Jim Nabors’ estate to be auctioned off. Hawaii News Now.

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Owners of Makaha no-kill shelter sentenced. In 2016, the shelter was raided and more than 300 dogs were confiscated by officials with the Hawaiian Humane Society who said the animals were living in deplorable conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Operator of no-kill shelter to serve a year behind bars for animal cruelty. Hawaii News Now.

State scrambles to eradicate population of coqui frogs found on Oahu. In less than two months, 16 coqui frogs have been found in Palolo Valley ― the largest population found on Oahu so far. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Salary Commission nixes big raises. The county Salary Commission on Thursday rejected across-the-board average 6.1% raises for county officials, but settled on a 1.25% cost-of-living adjustment instead.  West Hawaii Today.

Commission grants petition for contested case over Alii Drive development. The Leeward Planning Commission on Thursday granted a petition for standing in a contested case over a 50-unit residential community proposed across from Pahoehoe Beach Park on Alii Drive. West Hawaii Today.

Southwest to begin Hilo service in January. Southwest Airlines will begin offering flights from Hilo early next year, it was announced Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Expanded Southwest Airlines Service, Including To Hilo, Goes On Sale. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Ethics Board chides Kelly King over biofuel tax comments. Panel: Member who abstains from vote should not be part of discussions. The opinion, approved by the board in a vote Wednesday afternoon, centered on an ethics complaint against King, who as vice president and co-founder of Pacific Biodiesel, spoke in detail about her biofuel production business and the impact of a proposed 12 cent a gallon tax on biodiesel during council discussions in April. Maui News.

Move-in for senior affordable rentals is February. Kahului Lani is now accepting applications for future tenants. Maui News.

Input Sought on Proposed Wailuku Zoning Updates. The Maui Redevelopment Agency is hosting three workshops in August for the public to help shape the next generation of development in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Lanai, Molokai focus of renewable energy projects. Maui Electric Co. has been focusing on Lanai and Molokai renewable energy projects amid Hawaii’s ambitious green energy goal of 100 percent renewable by 2045. Maui News.

Kauai


Former Kauai Police Department Chief Darryl Perry is suing the county. He is suing for wrongful termination, defamation and several other claims related to an investigation into his conduct that his lawsuit says was inappropriate and intentionally designed to harass. Garden Island.

Southwest expands flights. Southwest has announced inter-island flights to and from Lihue Airport. Garden Island.