Hawaii scores low in Kids Count report, ag grants go looking for farmers, Teamsters strike closing restaurants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii is 44th in nation for keiki economic well-being. Hawaii’s astronomical costs for child care and preschool are a major reason the economic well-being of keiki here has worsened comparatively, pushing the state down from 35th place to a dismal 44th among the 50 states on that measure in the latest annual Kids Count Data Book report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Farmers Could Use Some Help Landing Grants That Would Boost Farm Operations. Nonprofits have stepped in to help with grant writing but the state agriculture department has been slow to take advantage of available pots of money. Civil Beat.

Green signs bill to improve aid-in-dying law.  As of June 1, it is easier for terminally ill patients to obtain prescription medication to end their suffering.  Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Has Been ‘Sweeping’ Homeless From Public Lands For More Than 100 Years. The term "homeless sweep" doesn't appear in Hawaii newspapers until the early 2000s, but officials have been ordering large-scale homeless enforcements since at least 1901. Civil Beat.

Hawaii unemployment fund experiencing ‘painful’ growth. Hawaii’s unemployment insurance fund is more than two-thirds of the way back up to adequacy after depletion during COVID-19’s economic shock in 2020, but the recovery is causing pain at an inopportune time for businesses paying into the fund. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii insurers could face more scrutiny over executive pay.  State lawmakers say they may seek a legislative fix to ensure the state’s nonprofit health insurers, which enjoy generous tax breaks, disclose the compensation of their top executives and board members following a decision by the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs in April that effectively allows some insurers to keep the information secret. Star-Advertiser.

Talks resume in Hawaii Gas Teamsters strike, but no deal reached. Contract negotiations between Hawaii Gas and unionized employees on strike have resumed, but the two sides don’t appear any closer to reaching an agreement. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

$2 million insurance coverage added for island coral reefs. With the Central Pacific hurricane season underway, an insurance policy covering up to $2 million in damage to Hawaii’s coral reefs is now in effect. Star-Advertiser.

Cleaning Up: The Aftermath Of A Honolulu Union’s Embezzlement Scandal. Members of IBEW 1260 had to pick up the pieces after former business manager Brian Ahakuelo and his wife were convicted. Civil Beat.

Oahu

4 Honolulu councilmembers plan to vote against pay raises.  On July 1, the new Honolulu city council budget will go into effect. Including, a 64% pay raise for council members, unless eight of them vote no to the pay raises.  KHON2.

Honolulu Council treads lightly on salary, outside employment talks. The Honolulu City Council will continue discussions on whether members can hold outside employment after killing a bill this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the governor’s backyard, 8 homeless patients settle in at medical respite tiny village. Pulama Ola village opened on May 31st, and is now home to eight homeless patients who were recently discharged from local hospitals. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Chinatown Lions Club collaborates with Mayor Blangiardi to beautify downtown parks. Dozens of people, including Mayor Rick Blangiardi and city administrators, joined Honolulu-Chinatown Lions Club in cleaning up Smith-Beretania Park and Doctor Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park. Hawaii News Now.

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden considers limiting visitors and charging fees.  Nestled beneath the Koʻolau mountain range on Oʻahu, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden was a once-hidden gem. But social media has heightened awareness about the garden’s natural wonders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Community Development Authority tasked with slew of projects. The Hawaii Community Development Authority was created nearly 50 years ago with a broad-purpose name despite having a singular initial focus: improving one community, Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Former mayor documents COVID-era frustrations, alliances in book. Interviews with 25 Hawaii leaders reveal early concerns that the islands could become overrun with COVID-19 while others hoped the Pacific Ocean would provide a natural “border” to keep the virus out, according to a new book by former Mayor Kirk Caldwell and his longtime deputy managing director Georgette Takushi Deemer. Star-Advertiser.

Water disruption forces closure of popular Diamond Head State Monument on Oʻahu.  The popular Diamond Head State Monument on O‘ahu was cleared at mid-day Sunday after the park’s water system had to be shut down.  Maui Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Planning commissions talk shoreline setbacks.  A joint meeting of the Windward and Leeward Planning commissions on June 2 concluded their discussion of several proposed revisions to the county’s planning rules, which would, among other things, require that all new developments be located at least 40 feet inland from a shoreline, twice as far as is currently permitted. Tribune-Herald.

Council members debate establishment of sustainability office.  Formation of a proposed new Hawaii County agency has stalled following lengthy debates among members of the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Land board action paves way for conservation of 642 acres in N. Kohala. Hundreds of acres of land in North Kohala have been re-dedicated to conservation by a nonprofit that purchased the land last year. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

As tourists flock to eruption, agencies urge respect. Even as lava fountains from the erupting Kilauea Volcano continue reaching heights of up to 30 feet, Hawaii tourism officials urged visitors to be respectful when flocking to Hawaii island to get a glimpse of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Tax could fund projects, but some worry about cost. Maui County could have seen around $283 million in added income if it had followed other counties four years ago in adding its own surcharge to the state’s general excise tax, according to tax officials’ estimates.  Maui News.

Maui County finance director to serve on national AI committee. Maui County Finance Director Scott Teruya has been appointed to a national exploratory committee that will look into how artificial intelligence could potentially help local government.  Maui News.

Maui Residents Fight To Save Kihei’s Last Wetlands. County officials continue to approve new building permits close to shore despite rising seas. Civil Beat.

Damaged Lahaina playground closes. The Lahaina Recreation Center playground has been closed until further notice due to safety concerns over the damaged playground surface, the Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation announced Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami leads Kaua‘i delegation in visit to Philippines. A Kaua‘i delegation’s weeklong venture to the Philippines was deemed a success on both the business development and diplomatic fronts, as the group reforged its partnership with the country. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i visitors spent heavily in April. A robust tourism industry is on pace to surpass $2 billion in visitor spending this year, in large part to a stellar start to the 2023 season on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

 

State mulls reclaiming military lease land, cannabis bills advance, first segment of Honolulu rail could open soon, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Proposed task force would plan environmental restoration of former military land. A proposal to establish a Surplus Military Land Task Force is making its way through the state Legislature. Senate Bill 521 would help the state determine and plan for the future use of land currently under military lease. Hawaii Public Radio.

Cannabis bills move forward despite mixed signals from Green’s team. Gov. Josh Green says he supports legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and older, but his newly installed department heads haven’t backed two bills advanced by the Senate on Thursday that would accomplish that goal. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.

Attorneys volunteering to help TMT, Kahuku wind turbine protesters clear arrest records. About 250 people were arrested during non-violent protests involving Native Hawaiian issues over recent years, such as the movements to stop the construction of telescopes on Mauna Kea and Haleakala, as well as protests against erecting wind turbines in Kahuku and development at Hunananiho in Waimanalo. KITV4.

Reverse Vending Machines Proposed In Hawaii Legislature. A pilot program to encourage the machines, House Bill 1410, is being discussed as a way to improve the state’s current redemption rate of 60%. The goal is to raise the percentage of eligible containers being redeemed at redemption centers.  Civil Beat.

Bill at state legislature would ban disposable wipes in all of Hawaii.  The purpose of House Bill 268 is to protect the plumbing. If passed, it would prohibit the sale or distribution of disposable wipes in the state. KITV4.

Kaiser reaches tentative deal with striking mental health workers. If ratified by union members, it will end a nearly six-month strike that the union says is the longest work stoppage by mental health care workers in U.S. history. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

An Arizona Jury Fails To Agree On Death Sentence For A Hawaii Inmate. An Arizona jury has been dismissed after the jurors reported they could not reach a unanimous decision on whether a Hawaii prisoner should be executed for a 2010 murder in that state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council Members Are More Like You Than You Might Think. Earning $69,000 a year means even the Honolulu City Council feels pressed by high housing costs and taxes. Civil Beat.

Some HART leaders see Ala Moana Center and UH as end points.  Despite budget constraints, some at the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation expressed their desire this week to see the rail project extended to its original end point of Ala Moana Center — and, if future funding were to become available, see the line move closer to the campus at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs Kakaako Makai bill advances.  The state Office of Hawaiian Affairs succeeded in advancing a bill to permit residential development on 31 acres it owns in Kakaako Makai past a pair of Senate committees Thursday after a contentious public hearing last week. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

UH President Gives Maunakea Chemical Spill Update. At a Thursday Board of Regents meeting, President David Lassner talked about the recent coolant leak at the UH 88-inch observatory.  Big Island Video News.

New playground equipment for Waikōloa Village park sits in storage container for months. Since late September, new playground equipment for Pu‘u Nui Park in Waikōloa Village has been sitting in a locked 40-foot Matson storage container taking up a big chunk of the parking lot. When it will be installed, nobody knows. Big Island Now.

‘Forever in our hearts’: Kona icon Norman Sakata dies at 96. West Hawaii mourned the passing of a local icon this week at the news of the passing of Norman Sakata, founder of the Kona Coffee Festival, Lions Club member and scoutmaster.  West Hawaii Today.

Maui

500 UPW workers vote to strike in dispute over pay; Maui Health hopes for agreement. Nearly 500 frontline healthcare workers at Kaiser’s Maui Health System have voted to strike in a dispute over pay, but Maui Health is hopes an agreement can still be reached.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

The median sales price for a Maui County home is only one in state to top $1 million.  Although some counties saw a drop in home prices at the start of the new year, Maui County was the only one in the state to exceed a $1 million median for single-family homes. Maui Now.

Kauai

Anahola students call for statewide Hawaiian Honeycreeper Day. A class of fourth grade students in Anahola are campaigning for members of Hawai‘i’s Legislature to create a statewide day recognizing and celebrating Hawai‘i’s threatened and endangered honeycreepers. Garden Island.

Missing romance novelist, actress traced to Kaua’i after leaving Wyoming jail. Romance novelist and actress Faleena Hopkins — who wrote the “Cocker Brothers” and “Werewolves of New York” series and starred in the 2020 drama “Just One More Kiss” — went missing 16 days ago and now Wyoming police officers believe she is on Kaua’i after tracing pings of her new phone to the island. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii hospitals could reach capacity in 6 weeks, Kapiolani nurses vote to strike, Proud Boy in court today for role in Capitol riot, coronavirus vaccinations may not be finished until Labor Day, Big Island mayor hospitalized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green administers coronavirus vaccine Dec. 29, 2020 PC:from Facebook

Hawaii Hospitals to Reach Capacity in Six Weeks if Cases Continue to Surge. The holiday surge of COVID-19 cases the state was bracing for has started. Hospitals are expected to be heavily affected in the coming weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

State releases latest COVID vaccine plan. Hawaii health officials expect the COVID-19 vaccine to be available to all residents by the end of this summer once the top three priority groups are taken care of. Maui News.

DOH: Over 35,000 COVID-19 vaccines administered statewide. As of Friday, health officials said 91,700 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been received by the state — 54,600 of those being the Pfizer-BioNTech brand, and 37,100 of the Moderna vaccine. So far, over 35,000 vaccinations have been administered statewide. Hawaii News Now.

Blood Bank of Hawaii asks COVID-19 survivors to donate plasma to help save lives. Only about 200 of the more than 23,000 residents who've tested positive for COVID-19 have donated their plasma, which has antibodies that can help save other patients. KITV4.

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Nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children have voted to authorize a strike about six months into bargaining for a new contract in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

After unsuccessful negotiations, nurses of Kapiolani Medical Center vote to strike. The nurses of Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children have voted to authorize a strike amid their ongoing negotiations with the hospital, the Hawai’i Nurses Association said Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

What would the impacts be if nurses strike at Kapiolani Medical Center? A total of 93 percent of nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children voted to authorize a strike against the hospital forcing the big question: what happens next and how will this impact the community during a pandemic. KHON2.

Kapiolani Medical Center nurses vote to authorize strike, CEO commits to reach a fair agreement. The nurses of Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children have voted by a 93% margin to authorize a strike. KITV4.

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Hawaii lawyer anticipates release of his client seen in mob that stormed U.S. Capitol. The lawyer for Proud Boys Hawaii founder and Capitol riot participant Nick Ochs said he expects his client will be released from jail this week. Hawaii News Now.

“Proud Boys Hawaii” leader to appear in federal court for alleged involvement in US Capitol riot. “Proud Boys Hawaii” leader and former political candidate Nicolas Ochs is scheduled to virtually “appear” in federal court on Monday, Jan. 11, after being arrested by the FBI for his alleged involvement in the US Capitol riot. KHON2.

Hawaii Proud Boy Charged By DOJ After Raiding US Capitol. Nicholas Ochs, a state House candidate and outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump, was an “easy target” for the feds, his attorney says. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boys Leader Arrested In Connection With Capitol Riot. Nicholas Ochs was apprehended by federal authorities in Hawaii after a warrant for his arrest was issued by a federal judge in Washington DC. Hawaii Public Radio.

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A rise in coronavirus cases on the West Coast could mean fewer travelers visiting the islands. As Hawaii tries to claw its way out of the worst economic decline in decades, California is a key to the revival of tourism. California is the source- market for most of visitors. Star-Advertiser.
Federal labor department to investigate Hawaii’s unemployment insurance system. The Federal Department of Labor is opening two investigations into Hawaii’s unemployment insurance system. One investigation centers around a Legal Aid allegation of discrimination because of nationality or citizenship, while the other is part of a nationwide investigation of fraud and verification procedures. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii businesses fear unemployment tax increases will ruin their economic recovery. Local businesses are bracing for at least a tripling of their unemployment taxes, which without legislative intervention they say would disrupt any statewide economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bankruptcies fell in 2020 despite pandemic. The number of bankruptcy cases ended up plunging 8.6% to 1,524, according to data released last week from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Defense spending ‘incredibly important’ for Hawaii during COVID-19 pandemic. Defense spending in Hawaii — about $5 billion annually in payroll and $2 billion-plus in contracts — has been “an incredibly important stabilizing force” in the state with an economy otherwise wracked by COVID-19, Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, said Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Gaps In Hawaii Eviction Moratorium Leave Some Renters Scrambling For Housing. The state eviction moratorium doesn’t protect every renter. And being kicked out when you’re unemployed makes finding housing much harder. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Teachers Get Their Turn To Receive COVID-19 Vaccines. Teachers on Kauai can start receiving COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as Monday, while those elsewhere in Hawaii will be able to get them by the end of the month into early February, the state teachers’ union said Friday. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 10: 200 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 200 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Sunday, including 128 on Oahu, 30 in Maui County, 12 on the Big Island, nine on Kauai and 21 residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

With triple-digit case spikes, Mayor Blangiardi focuses on how to move the city forward. Despite the steady increase in cases, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the island will remain in Tier 2 for now. Oahu’s current 7-day average daily cases is 124 and a 4.4 percent. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Spent $150,000 In CARES Funds On A Robot Dog. Flush with CARES Act cash, the Honolulu Police Department has spent millions on what one officer called toys. Civil Beat.

Reluctant to go; just a few regrets, Mayor Kirk Caldwell says. Kirk Caldwell handed the keys to the third-floor corner office at Honolulu Hale to incoming Mayor Rick Blangiardi on Jan. 2 — with only a few regrets but not just a little reluctance. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm unveils 100-day plan Tuesday. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm will be unveiling his 100-day plan to reform the Department of the Prosecuting attorney on Tuesday. KHON2.

Longtime Rail Officials Ousted As New CEO Joins HART. Bill Brennan and Joyce Oliveira were two of the longest-serving employees at a tumultuous agency that’s seen heavy turnover. Civil Beat.

Another case of COVID-19 confirmed in a city bus operator. The city said a bus driver tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

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Legislators step into conflict between University of Hawaii and Aloha Stadium. Some legislators say they haven’t closed the door on the Stadium Authority finding a pathway for the University of Hawaii football team to play at crumbling Aloha Stadium and are urging the parties to find common ground. Star-Advertiser.

Replacement work avoids funding halt at Aloha Stadium. A state agency has sidestepped what could have been a costly halt in a long- running effort to have a private developer redevelop Aloha Stadium and surrounding state land in Halawa. Star-Advertiser.

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Wahiawa solar farm divides community over food vs. fuel. A developer is proposing a solar farm near Wahiawa that could reduce electricity bills for 1,100 area households, but the project site on fallow prime farmland has drawn community opposition. Star-Advertiser.

Miske Case Weaves Together Disparate Strands Of Past Crimes. As information comes out in the case of alleged crime boss Michael J. Miske Jr., it looks like the gang was operating in plain sight. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized with chest pains. Roth, 56, who was elected in November, went to North Hawaii Community Hospital, was later transported to the Hilo Medical Center, where he was treated and had a stent implanted, according to a county news release. Star-Advertiser.

Roth hospitalized with chest pains: Stent implanted, now under medical evaluation. Mayor Mitch Roth was being evaluated by doctors and Managing Director Lee Lord has taken over as acting mayor after Roth had a stent implanted after suffering chest pain Saturday evening. West Hawaii Today.

Doctors Evaluating Mayor Roth After Hospitalization. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the hospital overnight, and is being evaluated by doctors following a medical procedure. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Mayor Hospitalized After Emergency Stent Placement. Hawai‘i County Mayor Mitch Roth was hospitalized over the weekend with chest pains. Big Island Now.

Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth taken to North Hawaii Community Hospital Saturday night. Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the North Hawaii Community Hospital in the evening on Saturday, Jan. 9 for what he described as discomfort in his chest. KHON2.

Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized with chest pain. Mayor Mitch Roth was being evaluated by doctors and Managing Director Lee Lord has taken over as acting mayor after Roth had a stent implanted after suffering chest pain Saturday evening, according to a news release Sunday morning. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized for chest discomfort. Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth has been taken to the hospital, according to county officials. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Roth taken to hosptial, Lee Lord acting mayor. Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the North Hawaii Community Hospital last night with discomfort in his chest. KITV4.

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Public unhappy over lack of access: Pandemic, technology and tension during long council session. A heavy and sometimes controversial agenda, coupled with technical problems during a global pandemic, brought a new set of challenges to the County Council last week, during a meeting that saw testifiers grumble about lack of access and a mayor appear to step outside his lane to advise council members on Sunshine Law issues. West Hawaii Today.

Pandemic does little to slow down Big Island home sales. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, home sales on Hawaii Island in 2020 increased from the previous year — the only island in the state where that occurred. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

COVID-19 Surge Is Largely Blamed On Holiday Gatherings. Officials point to holiday-related gatherings including an outbreak at a condo complex that was believed to have started with a choir practice. Civil Beat.

Harbor Lights cluster reaches 92 COVID cases. The COVID-19 cluster at the Harbor Lights condominium complex is now up to 92 cases, with more testing to continue, a county official and a Harbor Lights representative said on Friday. Maui News.

King, panel to discuss COVID-19 rise on Maui. Maui County Council Member Kelly King will host a virtual town hall from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday to discuss the recent surge of COVID cases on Maui and the county’s response to the pandemic. Maui News.

Councilmember King to Host Town Hall Webinar on COVID-19, Jan. 11. In response to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Maui County community, Maui County Councilmember Kelly King of South Maui will host a virtual town hall webinar on Monday, Jan. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. Maui Now.

Sun rises on new sunscreen era. For eco-friendly sunscreen makers like Maui’s Jenna Davis, Hawaii’s new law banning sunscreens with coral-harming chemicals couldn’t have come at a better time — and the pandemic couldn’t have come at a worse moment. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai utility, AES propose dual-energy project. Kauai’s nonprofit electric utility cooperative anticipates boosting its renewable-energy production by 25% with a proposed hydro and solar electricity project. Star-Advertiser.

Solar-hydro project moves forward. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative signed agreements with The AES Corporation for the development, construction and operation of the cooperative’s solar-pumped, storage hydro project, also known as the West Kaua‘i Energy Project. Garden Island.

Meeting set for Hanalei base yard projects. The County of Kaua‘i invites the public to participate in a virtual public meeting regarding the Hanalei base yard office and garage project. Garden Island.

Police pulled off Mauna Kea as access road to be opened, Maui mayor vetoes tax valuation bill, 500 food service workers strike at Honolulu airport, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige and top state law enforcement officials hold Mauna Kea press conference ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Governor Pulls Back Law Enforcement On Mauna Kea — For Now. Protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope project are contemplating their next move in the face of a Dec. 26 deadline to either leave or risk arrest. Civil Beat.

5 months after standoff with TMT protesters began, Ige pulls law enforcement from Mauna Kea. The governor announced Thursday he’s pulling state law enforcement from Mauna Kea amid the ongoing standoff with Thirty Meter Telescope protesters at the base of the summit, but stressed his administration is not abandoning the project. Hawaii News Now.

Thirty Meter Telescope protesters told to clear road by Dec. 26. In a confusing flurry of activity Thursday, Gov. David Ige said he was removing state law enforcement personnel from Mauna Kea for the time being, while a top state law enforcement officer warned the protesters blocking the Mauna Kea Access Road that they have until Dec. 26 to clear the road, or face arrest. Star-Advertiser.

Standing down: Ige, Kim announce withdrawal of law enforcement on Maunakea. After more than five months of waiting, the impasse at Maunakea Access Road has seemingly broken, with Gov. David Ige on Thursday reopening the road and withdrawing law enforcement from the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

The governor has initiated a reduction of state law enforcement presence on Maunakea. State law enforcement will stand down on Mauna Kea, and the Mauna Kea Access Road will reopen. Big Island Video News.

TMT Won't Begin Construction At This Time, Ige To Withdraw Law Enforcement From Mauna Kea. Hawaii Gov. David Ige says he is withdrawing state law enforcement officers from Mauna Kea after being informed that the $1.6 billion Thirty Meter Telescope won't proceed with construction at this time. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor Ige pulls law enforcement from Mauna Kea, police give demonstrators one week to clear the road. Mauna Kea kia’i are given one week to clear access to the Mauna or face removal after Governor David Ige announces the TMT project will be temporarily put on hold. KHON2.

State to Withdraw Presence From Maunakea as Part of Indefinite Stand Down. Gov. David Ige has announced an indefinite withdrawal of state law enforcement from Maunakea, citing the Thirty Meter Telescope’s intention not to immediately move forward with construction on the mountain. Big Island Now.

Demonstrators against TMT construction say they were given a deadline to clear Mauna Kea access road. On Thursday, demonstrators against construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea say they were given a deadline to clear the access road. KITV.

Complaint: ‘Enhanced’ Maunakea traffic enforcement is unconstitutional. The Hawaii County Police Commission is slated to hear a complaint today by a retired police sergeant who alleges the Hawaii Police Department’s operations around the blockade of Maunakea Access Road by protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope project is “institutionalized police misconduct.” Tribune-Herald.

Baby gets a special greeting from Obama at Hawaii golf course. Former President Barack Obama is back on Oahu for the holidays, where he's already hitting the links and surprising families. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Strike spurs several restaurant closures at Honolulu airport. Over 500 HMSHost Honolulu airport workers went on strike Thursday in the midst of one of the busiest travel times of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Airport Food Service Workers On Strike. It involves over 500 Local 5 members at HMSHost concessions and restaurants. Civil Beat.

More than 500 food service workers at Honolulu airport on strike. More than 500 food service workers at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport are on strike on Thursday, calling for better pay and benefits. Hawaii News Now.

More than 500 food service workers on strike at the airport in Honolulu. Airport officials told us that there are only a handful or so places open where people can get food and drinks. KHON2.

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State cites operators of two unlicensed Honolulu care homes. The state Health Department said today it has ordered the operators of two illegal adult residential care homes in Honolulu to close down following unannounced visits. Star-Advertiser.

State orders 2 illegal adult care homes to shut down. The state says both are operated by Kolea Senior Management Services. Hawaii News Now.

State cracking down on unlicensed home care facilities. It's something that has become a bigger problem as Hawaii's population ages. KITV.

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‘Save Our Sherwoods’ says mayor agrees to scrap controversial Waimanalo project. Opponents of a controversial development project in Waimanalo say an agreement has been reached to scrap the plan. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Attorney believes group behind violent crimes on Oahu. U.S. Attorney Kenji Price said a group may be behind some of the recent armed crimes in Hawaii, particularly on Oahu, during a news conference today addressing the spike in violent crimes. Star-Advertiser.

Lay Net Found In Kaneohe Bay So Massive DLNR Needed A Forklift To Move It. The discovery sparked an investigation by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, which regulates net fishing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

The Big Island took to the small screen in 2019. 64 productions permitted, filmed on Big Island in 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Suggestions sought for lands to be permanently preserved. The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, or PONC, is seeking suggestions from the public regarding lands that should be preserved because of cultural or historic significance. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Victorino Vetoes Bill on Real Property Tax Valuations. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino announced his disapproval of Bill 59, relating to Real Property Tax Valuations, citing concerns over what he called “the potential negative consequences of the proposed tax classifications and a lack of understanding by taxpayers.” Maui Now.

Maui Mayor vetoes bill on Real Property Tax Valuations. Mayor Victorino objected to the Council’s new proposed real property tax classifications of combining “properties with dwellings” in the current Agricultural, Conservation, Apartment, and Residential classifications into a new classification entitled “non-owner occupied.” KHON2.

Funds for old, new jail; to purchase watershed all part of Ige’s budget. $17M also allotted for Maui hospitals. Maui News.

Surf competition raises concerns over illegal parking, congestion. Residents file complaints after Jaws Challenge. Maui News.

Kauai

After 100 years in business, Kauai hog farm prepares to shut down. Kauai farmers Valerie and Derwin Kaneshiro raise hogs and produce pork. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai utility hits mark of supplying island with 100% renewable energy. KIUC claims that for five hours last Tuesday, all electricity on Kauai — which provides power to a population of about 100,000, including visitors — was generated 100% by renewable resources. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants vote to strike, Big Island council bans herbicides, Gabbard attacks Democratic Party in debate, acting Honolulu prosecutor subpoenaed in FBI probe, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket PC:Association of Flight Attendants-CWA AFL-CIO

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants vote to authorize strike. The union representing Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants said today that members have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Air flight attendants vote overwhelmingly to authorize strike. After three years of negotiations and no deal, Hawaiian Airlines’ flight attendants Wednesday approved their first-ever strike authorization vote. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Air strike possible over holidays. Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants voted to strike on Wednesday, making history with 99.9 percent of votes authorizing the strike and 95.1 percent of flight attendants participating. Garden Island.

How will the Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant vote to strike impact your upcoming travel plans? Negotiations are ongoing. If that fails, they will go to mediation, then possibly arbitration. The only time a strike could happen is if the national mediation board gives the flight attendants permission to strike. KHON2.

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Tulsi Gabbard’s fiery exchanges stand out in ‘good-natured’ debate. Tulsi Gabbard sparred with Kamala Harris and Pete Buttigieg during Wednesday evening’s presidential debate, adding tension to what was a generally collegial event among the top 10 Democratic presidential candidates and highlighting a growing unease among the party with her candidacy. Star-Advertiser.

Presidential Debate Puts Gabbard At Odds With Harris, Buttigieg. In addition to candidates, she took on her own party. Civil Beat.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard joined nine other Democratic candidates for the White House on Wednesday for the fifth presidential debate in Atlanta. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Acting Prosecuting Attorney Dwight Nadamoto is expected to appear before a federal grand jury today after being subpoenaed by the FBI earlier this week. Star-Advertiser.

Top Honolulu Attorney Served With Federal Subpoena. Acting City Prosecutor Dwight Nadamoto, who received a federal subpoena on Monday, said on Thursday that he has done nothing wrong and intends to comply with it. Hawaii Public Radio.

Acting city prosecutor gets FBI subpoena to testify in ongoing criminal probe of his boss. City Prosecutor Dwight Nadamoto confirmed Wednesday that he’s received a subpoena to testify before the federal grand jury investigating his boss: Keith Kaneshiro. Hawaii News Now.

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Delivery of Kahuku wind turbine parts complete. The last of the large turbine parts for the planned Na Pua Makani wind farm project in Kahuku arrived Wednesday, developer AES Corp. announced. Star-Advertiser.

Transport of wind farm equipment wrapped up ahead of schedule. The company behind a controversial wind farm project says they’ve finished the transport of equipment to the North Shore a week early. Hawaii News Now.

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New Snags Hold Back Ala Wai Flood Control Project. Both the city and a state court judge have issues with the environmental impact reports, halting the controversial flood control project. Civil Beat.

Short-staffed and overcrowded. And for the state’s largest jail, that’s just the start. Oahu Community Correctional Center is the state’s largest jail facility, with more than 1,000 detainees. And like the state’s other jails, it’s over-capacity. Hawaii News Now.

Community Calls For Red Hill Tanks To Be Moved Now. Members of the public packed Moanalua Middle School cafeteria last night, many calling for the Navy to move its Red Hill fuel tanks away from drinking water aquifers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Finally, satellite city halls on Oahu start taking credit and debit cards. “Cash or checks only” is a thing of the past at Oahu’s satellite city halls. Hawaii News Now.

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Shawn Ching to depart as Hawaii News Now 5 p.m. co-anchor. Emmy Award-winning news anchor Shawn Ching is departing Hawaii News Now to return to his law practice and spend more time with his wife and young son, General Manager Rick Blangiardi announced Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

News anchor Shawn Ching leaving Hawaii News Now to spend more time with ohana. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council bans county herbicide use. Urged on by new mothers, beekeepers, organic farmers and a soccer coach, the County Council on Wednesday passed a bill banning the county’s use of herbicides on public property, making Hawaii County the first local government in the state to do so. West Hawaii Today.

Council Passes Ban On County Herbicide Use. A bill that prohibits the use of herbicides in Hawaii County parks, roads, and waterways was approved by the Hawaiʻi County Council on Wednesday, after it passed by a 6-3 vote. Big Island Video News.

County to Ban All Herbicide Use by 2024. The Hawai‘i County Council voted Wednesday afternoon to ban the use of herbicides on any County managed or maintained property — including parks, roadways and waterways — beginning in 2024. Big Island Now.

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Roy Takemoto appointed county managing director. Roy Takemoto has been selected managing director effective Dec. 2. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim Appoints New Managing Director. Roy Takemoto is set to replace Managing Director Wil Okabe, who announced his resignation Monday. Civil Beat.

Roy Takemoto Named Managing Director After Okabe Departure. Takemoto, appointed by Mayor Harry Kim, will be before the Hawaiʻi County Council for a confirmation hearing on December 4. Big Island Video News.

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6K+ Mauna Kea citations called ‘misconduct’ by retired officer. A retired Hawaii county police officer has launched a complaint against his ex-boss, Chief of Police Paul Ferreria, because of beefed up traffic enforcement at Mauna Kea. Police have issued 6,585 citations since August 15 according to HPD. Hawaii News Now.

Council passes resolution urging collaboration on waste reduction strategies. The Hawaii County Council passed a resolution urging county agencies to work together to reduce waste and generate more clean energy. Tribune-Herald.

Kawaihae Excluded From North Kohala Enterprise Zone. The Hawaiʻi County Council is advancing the renewed Enterprise Zone designation for North Kohala, before the previous designation expires in April 2020. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Dengue fever confirmed in Kahului resident. Person no longer infectious, but mosquito control still encouraged. Maui News.

Eighteen inmates penalized in March fire, riot at Maui jail. Repairs from the disturbance at MCCC are almost complete. Maui News.

Mahi Pono, hui reach water pact. Officials: Plan may create new chapter in ag history. Maui News.

Kauai

More dead birds found. Another seven wedge-tailed shearwaters have been found dead along the Maha‘ulepu coast, about a week after 35 birds were killed on the cliffs above Shipwreck Beach. Garden Island.

Workers end hotel strike, lawsuit filed over false missile alert heart attack, military about-face on Mauna Kea war games, no prosecution for Kauai Hawaiian activist, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Striking hotel workers in Waikiki ©2018 All Hawaii News.

Hotel workers ratify contract to end 51-day strike. Hotel owner Kyo-ya offered striking hotel workers up to $6.13 per hour in pay and benefit increases over four years in a new contract today that ended a 51-day-old strike. Star-Advertiser.

Tears of joy and celebratory singing after a grueling 51-day strike ends with a new contract for hotel workers. Hawaii News Now.

Kyo-ya hotel workers ratify new contract in near-unanimous vote. KHON2.

Local 5 union hotel workers vote to ratify new contract. KITV.

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Analysts rank Hawaii among worst in nation for unfunded liabilities. A recent report by analysts at J.P. Morgan has ranked Hawaii among a handful of the most financially stressed states, mostly because of unfunded pension and health care obligations to public workers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Aims To Quicken The Pace Of School Repairs. The Department of Education wants to demystify how it is handling a hefty repair and maintenance backlog. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Department of Education reveals new digital solutions to improve facilities. It may soon take months, not years to make repairs and upgrades to Hawaii Schools. KITV.

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Man who suffered heart attack during Hawaii’s false missile alert sues state. James Sean Shields and his girlfriend, Brenda Rei­chel, filed a lawsuit in first Circuit Court against the state and Vern Miyagi, former administrator of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, or HI-EMA, for the false alarm they claim triggered the heart attack. Star-Advertiser.

Man Who Had Heart Attack After Hawaii Missile Alert Sues. Assuming the threat was real, he said he called loved ones before suffering cardiac arrest. Associated Press.

A Hawaii Kai man who suffered a heart attack during January’s false missile scare has sued the state, saying if emergency management workers hadn’t waited so long to send out an “all clear” message he might have been OK. Hawaii News Now.

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A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the maker of potato chips sold under the brand name Hawaiian, claiming the chips made in Washington state are misleading customers. Associated Press.

Matson sells a ship to lighten debt load. Matson Inc. has sold one of its containerships but will lease it back from the new owner as a way to cut debt as it borrows more money to pay for new ships, including one scheduled to arrive for the first time in Hawaii on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will give about $3.6 million in funding next year to 130 Hawaii programs that are connected to Hawaiian culture, natural resources, and community events. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Residents Lobby for Car Race Track and Puu O Hulu Park Restrooms. Car racing proponents and leeward coast residents lobbied the Honolulu City Council today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Wastewater spill from Meadow Gold Dairy contaminates water near Ala Moana. The Department of Health's Clean Water Branch was notified of a wastewater discharge from Meadow Gold Dairy at 826 Cedar Street. An estimated 3,250 gallons of wastewater spilled. It has since been stopped. KHON2.

Honolulu rail car transported from Honolulu Harbor to Waipahu. The first of four rail cars that make up the fourth train for the city’s upcoming 20-mile rail line was transported to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s rail operations center in Waipahu from Honolulu Harbor Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

A Mom Struggles Mightily As Law Lets Son Defy Doctor’s Orders. The Kanehoe woman says her son’s condition has deteriorated, partly because Hawaii allows people as young as age 15 to refuse inpatient psychiatric treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Military’s Mauna Kea rec area plans a no-go. The military has retreated from a plan to conduct special reconnaissance training at the Mauna Kea Recreation Area, where role-playing soldiers armed with guns would try to hide from observers. West Hawaii Today.

One of lower Puna’s most popular beach parks will officially reopen next week after a six-month-plus closure because of lava. Isaac Hale Beach Park, also known as Pohoiki beach park, will reopen at 1 p.m. Dec. 6 after a blessing ceremony, the county Department of Parks and Recreation said in a statement Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Isaac Hale Beach Park, also known as Pohoiki Beach Park, will reopen to the public on Thursday, December 6th. Big Island Video News.

Isaac Hale Beach Park: A landmark for most beachgoers, home to one family. KITV.

Salary Commission Chairman Hugh Ono, who led the board through double-digit raises for county elected officials and department heads, resigned Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The Maunakea Visitor Information Station will adjust its hours and suspend its stargazing program ahead of the start of a construction project. The six-month-long project, which will begin in January, is aimed at improving safety and access for visitors at the popular, but at times overcrowded, stop along the Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald.

The number of downed deep wells in North Kona hasn’t changed as four of the region’s 14 water sources remain out of commission. A 10 percent voluntary conservation on water use in the area also remains in effect. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Attack on the coqui frog. Haiku residents band together to stem spread of loud invasive species. Maui News.

Adjustments Made to Some Central and West Maui Bus Routes. Beginning Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, select Maui Bus routes will change. Maui Now.

Kauai

New county planning director appointed. Kauai County Planning Department Deputy Director Kaaina Hull will take over as planning director starting next week. Garden Island.

Danners won’t face prosecution. The Kauai County prosecutor has declined to pursue trespassing and interfering with a government agent charges against Native Hawaiian activist Robin Danner and her son, Garrett Danner, that grew out of a confrontation in Anahola last month. Garden Island.

Commentary: County Council show goes on – a ship tossing in the sea. Unfortunately, if the meeting held by the incoming council is any indication, our newly elected Kauai County Council is starting off on the wrong foot. Garden Island.

High bacteria count discovered at Prince Kuhio Park and Koloa Landing. KITV.

Hawaii Health Department says local romaine lettuce OK, recreational fishing fee mulled, filmmaker sues state claiming religious bias, Maui Sugar Cane Train returns, Lloyd's to pay lava victims, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian fisherman ©2018 All Hawaii News

Fee to fish?: Group sets public meetings to break down report on recreational fishing regulation. Almost two years after Conservation International Hawaii and the Western Pacific Fishery Council released a feasibility study on a regulatory system for noncommercial fishing in Hawaii, contributors are touring the state to discuss it with the public. West Hawaii Today.

State lawmakers noncommittal on raising minimum wage. Nate Hix, who founded an advocacy group Living Wage Hawaii, is hoping that a significant hike in the minimum wage during the upcoming legislative session, which begins in January, will help alleviate the struggles of many Hawaii residents, and he believes the political momentum is there. Star-Advertiser.

Racing To Save Hawaii’s Songbirds From Extinction. Scientists are urgently searching for backup homes to protect the three remaining species in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Civil Beat.

New climate change report not good for Hawaii. A new U.S. Climate Assessment report is out and it highlights many factors that could change the landscape of the islands. KHON2.

US Climate Report Warns Of Worsening Weather Disasters. In Hawaii and the Pacific, surface temperatures and sea level continue rising, while extremes such as drought and flooding continue affecting the islands. Associated Press.

State says locally grown romaine lettuce OK. Farmers tell us the state Department of Health put out a notice that local lettuce from Hawaii is not linked to the E. Coli outbreak. KHON2.

Filmmaker sues state, claims religious bias. A veteran producer of faith-based films is accusing officials in the Hawaii Film Office of discriminating against his Christian-themed historical movie and conspiring to deny a substantial tax credit due his production. Star-Advertiser.

Appleseed Center urges tough vacation rental rules. A local nonprofit focused on poverty issues is urging that Hawaii follow several cities around the world in getting tough on regulating the use of homes as short-term vacation rentals.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s disability benefit denials reversed at highest rate in nation. he judges in 64 percent of cases ruled in favor of Hawaii applicants who appealed their benefit denials — by far the highest rate among the 50 states and substantially above the national average of 43 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to Hawaii businesses and residents impacted by Tropical Storm Lane, the U.S. Small Business Administration has announced. Maui News.

Marketing Hawaii as a Sports Center. Between the Vans Triple Crown of surfing, the Maui Invitational college basketball tournament and the Los Angeles Rams lined up to play a pre-season game at the Aloha Stadium next year, there are a lot of reasons why sports fans are paying attention to Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Strike negotiations between workers, hotel management to resume Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Local 5 strikers hold candlelight vigil before Monday's negotiations. The local union represents more than 2,000 employees in Hawaii currently on strike. KITV.

Oahu

Program prevents former inmates from becoming homeless. Waikiki Health continues to exceed expectations in helping prisoners who would otherwise end up homeless once they’re out. Star-Advertiser.

Free Ala Moana Clinic Opens For Young People With Psychosis. OnTrack focuses on getting those with a severe mental disorder back to school or work, and helping them restore their relationships. Civil Beat.

Couple launches new mobile shower service as community service. How many of us take for granted a hot shower? For so many homeless folks, it's a luxury.  KITV.

A UH program is getting federal money to help free innocent inmates. The program analyzes DNA and new evidence to seek justice. Hawaii News Now.

Surf competitions work to protect Hawaii’s shorelines, address coastal erosion. 'We want to see this place preserved for future generations of surfers.' Hawaii News Now.

Three of the four museums and memorials in Pearl Harbor — including the USS Arizona Memorial, one of the most visited attractions in the state — are headed toward name changes to better define their mission and to improve fundraising. Star-Advertiser.

UH Cancer Center Awarded $1.4M for E-Cigarette Research. The effects of e-cigarette marketing on young adults' knowledge, attitudes and behavior is the focus of a University of Hawaii Cancer Center researcher. Maui Now.

New deal to transport Falls of Clyde to motherland. As the holiday season commences, the four-masted, iron-hulled ship originally built in Port Glasgow, Scotland, continues to sit in limbo at Pier 7 near the Aloha Tower Marketplace as a Scottish-­based group works determinedly to secure funds for its return. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County seeks flexibility in using GET funds. Hawaii County officials plan to ask lawmakers for more flexibility in how it can use its general excise tax surcharge. Tribune-Herald.

Lloyd’s of London agrees to pay lava victims, attorney says. Lloyd’s of London has agreed to pay policyholders whose claims were denied following the Kilauea eruption, according to an attorney suing the company. Tribune-Herald.

Councilmembers got an update on a years-long legal fight involving election division employees and former legislative officials. Big Island Video News.

Mass Transit recovery ongoing. Brenda Carreira, the third Mass Transit administrator this year, assured a County Council panel earlier this week she’s taken the first steps to pull the beleaguered agency back together. West Hawaii Today.

Ota Well Project a go: EA clears path for site development in Holualoa. An environmental assessment related to the construction of two wells off a stretch of Mamalahoa Highway in Holualoa has received a finding of no significant impact. West Hawaii Today.

Proposed Biofuel Plant Faces $100M Deadline. Some residents and environmental groups continue fighting the conversion of an old coal-powered plant into a wood-burning facility. Civil Beat.

Consensus reached: Community members agree to potential Pololu Valley Lookout land donation. Nearly two dozen residents found common ground Wednesday night, reaching a consensus that may lead to a five-acre land donation at Pololu Valley Lookout from Surety Kohala Corporation sometime in the next year or so. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Nearly 3 Million Visitors Came to Maui in 2017, New Report Finds. The number of visitors staying on Maui in 2017 rose 4% from 2016 to 2,744,994 visitors, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority's 2017 Annual Visitor Research Report. Maui Now.

Hotel revenue per room drops, first time since January ’16. Official says it is too early to tell if drop the result of stormy weather. Maui News.

Maui Sugar Cane Train’s Holiday Express returned Friday; full schedule of runs expected to depart in May. The iconic Maui Sugar Cane Train may return permanently with regular runs starting in May, a co-owner said Friday. Maui News.

A gauge of new-vehicle sales showed Maui totals down 8.4 percent for the first nine months, compared to last year, the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association reported Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

A meeting is set for 3:30 p.m. today at the Historic County Building for the members elected to the Kauai County Council for the term commencing Dec. 3 to discuss their organizational structure for the 2018-2020 council term. Garden Island.

December BLNR meeting key to Kauai’s water. The December BLNR meeting will focus on how much water, if any, should be diverted out of the streams at the Blue Hole. Garden Island.

A tentative settlement has been reached in a civil lawsuit filed against the Kauai County Police Department by the family of a 19-year-old Hanapepe man killed by a speeding police cruiser. Garden Island.

Ige, lawmakers face awkward reunion, Honolulu unveils homeless hygiene center, illegal Maui vacation rentals face $20k fine, Bill Gates' toilet could eliminate cesspool problems, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige with Sen. Mazie Hirono, Mayor Harry Kim ©2018 All Hawaii News

Did Hawaii Lawmakers Poison Their Relationship With Gov. Ige? Top legislative leaders, in a rare move, opposed fellow Democrat David Ige and raised money for his opponent in the primary. Civil Beat.

Leaders dismiss warnings. Staff at the Department of Land and Natural Resources in 2012 and 2013 warned top managers within the Land Division that its month-to-month property rental program needed major fixes. Star-Advertiser.

Hirono Files Suit Against Trump Over Appointment of Acting AG. The Hawaii senator joined two Senate Democrats in the action, which argues Matthew Whitaker’s appointment is unconstitutional. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Leaders Push to Double Food Production by 2020. Leaders hope big agriculture investment from Costco and tech moguls will boost the islands’ food self-sufficiency, but farmers are wary. U.S. News.

Bill Gates wants to bring a new kind of technology to Hawaii: The reinvented toilet. Hawaii environmental leaders say billionaire Bill Gates wants to help Hawaii in its quest to eliminate cesspools. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii hotel workers slated to remain on strike through Thanksgiving. Some 2,700 Hawaii hotel workers are expected to remain on strike through the Thanksgiving holiday. Hawaii News Now.

Kyo-ya says Local 5 workers union rejects highest wage offer nationwide. Kyo-ya Hotels and Resorts said Monday that the Unite Here Local 5 Union has rejected its latest offer, “which would have been the largest increase in compensation for any of the striking markets nationwide.” Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The city Monday announced it will open a shower and toilet hygiene center on the ground floor of its latest facility to address homelessness — a building in Iwilei that will offer more services than anywhere else in the country, according to Councilman Joey Manahan. Star-Advertiser.

Construction underway in Iwilei for largest hygiene center in the nation. The center, which will serve Honolulu’s homeless population, will be on the first floor of a four-story building in Kuwili Street and will have showers, laundry services, kennels, a mail service and even a bed bug-zapping machine. Hawaii News Now.

The City and County of Honolulu unveiled what it calls the biggest homeless hygiene center in the nation today. Hawaii Public Radio.

City unveils rest stop center for homeless. KHON2.

City shows off Iwilei hygiene center. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell showcased a city facility aimed at getting homeless residents off the streets. KITV.

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The Liliha Public Library will be closed for major renovations starting Saturday, November 24, 2018. KITV

Kakaako Roads Worsen As Ownership Battle Continues. There are roads across the state that are in limbo because no one can agree who owns them. A  drawn-out legal battle over disputed roads in Kakaako has taken a turn and has some questioning why it's taken so long to resolve. Hawaii Public Radio.

New $20.4M visitor center to be built at Punchbowl. A multi-million dollar visitor center is in the works at the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Hawaii News Now.

New $20M visitor center planned for Punchbowl Memorial. The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl will receive $20.4 million for the construction of a visitor center, according to U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, the lead Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Sewer fee hikes advanced. Should the burden of keeping the oceans clean fall primarily on those connected to a sewer system? That was the question Monday, before a County Council panel unanimously advanced a bill almost doubling sewer fees over the next three years. West Hawaii Today.

A resolution to temporarily close one of only two roads into Leilani Estates failed to pass a County Council committee Monday after dozens of Leilani residents voiced support for and opposition to the bill. Tribune-Herald.

A judge denied a motion to dismiss a claim brought against Lloyd’s of London by an elderly Puna couple who allege their insurer acted in bad faith by not approving the claim they made after losing their home during the eruption of Kilauea volcano earlier this year. Tribune-Herald.

‘Punatics’ Look To Start Rebuilding After The Lava Damage. Hawaii County officials are fast-tracking the permitting of new package homes or repairs of ones damaged during Kilauea eruption. Civil Beat.

Mobile hygiene unit arrives on Big Island. Project Vision Hawaii unveiled its Hawaii Island-dedicated mobile shower unit, HiEhiE, purchased with donations raised during the Puna lava eruption. The event took place at Mooheau Bandstand in Downtown Hilo. KHON2.

Civil Beat Law Center to be Honored at luncheon. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Draft form of bill to penalize illegal short-term rentals under discussion. Operators want to make sure measure is not going to unfairly penalize permit holders. On Nov. 6, voters approved a County Charter amendment that would increase the fine for illegal operators from $1,000 to $20,000 initially and $10,000 every day of violation after that. Maui News.

The End Of An Era For Elle Cochran. Longtime Maui councilwoman plans to stay involved in local issues — and do a lot surfing. Civil Beat.

Input Sought on Maui Long Range Transportation Plan. Maui Now.

Forum to focus on climate change, energy resilience. Maui Electric Co. will host a free community forum titled “Energy Resilience on Maui” Nov. 29 at the Cameron Center Auditorium in Wailuku. Maui News.

Kauai

Detour taking toll. For seven months, residents on Kauai’s North Shore have been using a one-mile-long, pitted detour from Kuhio Highway to Kahiliholo Road to get in and out of their homes. Garden Island.