Showing posts with label unions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label unions. Show all posts

Thursday, September 24, 2020

Hawaii happiest state in the nation, Ige signs proclamation on travel, masks, eviction moratorium; COVID-19 cases back in triple digits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii hula happy
Hula in Hawaii ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii tops ranking as Happiest State in America. Hawaii may have a double-digit unemployment rate and a virtual tourism lockdown, but the state ranks as the Happiest State in America, according to a WalletHub study released Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Ige’s latest emergency proclamation OKs pre-travel COVID-19 testing and extends travel quarantine, evictions ban. Gov. David Ige today signed a new emergency proclamation that extends Hawaii’s COVID-19 emergency period through the end of October and officially authorizes a pre-arrivals testing program that would ease travel restrictions for some travelers. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Signs Proclamation On Travel, Masks, And Driver’s Licenses. Governor David Ige on Wednesday signed a 13th supplementary emergency proclamation, extending the COVID-19 emergency period through Oct. 31. Big Island Video News.

Ige Extends COVID-19 Emergency Period Through October, Authorizes Pre-Travel Testing to Start Oct. 15. Governor David Ige today signed a 13th supplementary emergency proclamation that extends the COVID-19 emergency period in Hawaiʻi through Oct. 31. Maui Now.

Hawaii Has A New COVID-19 Response Team. Will It Make A Difference? Decisions about programs and policies to combat the virus are happening faster under a newly restructured leadership team. Star-Advertiser.

Air ventilation in the classroom is a concern for returning to campus. The Hawaii Department of Education does not yet have details on which schools that plan to implement blended or in-person classes over the course of the next quarter. KHON2.

United Airlines to begin pre-travel COVID-19 testing pilot in San Francisco for Hawaii-bound travelers. United Airlines, which brought more travelers to Hawaii than any other carrier pre-pandemic, on Oct. 15 will offer rapid COVID-19 tests to Hawaii-bound customers who are originating from San Francisco. Star-Advertiser.

Ige’s Eviction Moratorium Doesn’t Do What He Says It Does
. Hawaii renters and landlords alike are frustrated by the governor’s confusing rule. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 23: 168 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii health officials reported 168 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday, marking a triple-digit increase after three consecutive days of fewer than 100 cases confirmed in the islands. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Chairman Ikaika Anderson officially leaves City Council. Honolulu City Council members gave retiring colleague and Chairman Ikaika Anderson a couple of fist bumps, a hug, maile lei and an elbow touch along with praise and well wishes Wednesday on his last workday at Honolulu Hale. Star-Advertiser.

Alan Texeira Sworn In To Replace Ikaika Anderson. Former Honolulu City Council Chair Ikaika Anderson’s deputy chief of staff was officially sworn in to take over his seat on Wednesday afternoon. Civil Beat.

More than 3,000 families have tapped a city program offering financial assistance. The city says about $4 million has been distributed as part of the Household Hardship Relief Program, which helps with payments for families financially impacted by COVID. Hawaii News Now.

More than $20M remains for Oahu residents needing aid. More than $20 million in assistance for rent, utilities, child care and even cellphone and internet service for Oahu residents is waiting to be distributed by the end of the year as people continue to struggle with the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

More than $20 million still available through Household Hardship Relief Program. For those needing financial help because of the pandemic, more than $20 million is still available through the City and County of Honolulu's Household Hardship Relief Program. KITV4.

Businesses prepare to follow new rules for reopening on Thursday. After being shut down for nearly a month, many Oahu businesses are getting ready to reopen. Businesses like restaurants, retail shops and attractions can reopen, but only at 50 percent capacity. KHON2.

Restaurant and bar owners offer differing views of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s reopening plan. Restaurant and bar owners had mixed reactions to Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s reopening plan, which bases restrictions on a four-tiered metric. Star-Advertiser.

O'ahu gyms will have to take their business outdoors in order to reopen. Gyms on O'ahu have been closed for the past four weeks and it could be at least another month until they're allowed to reopen unless they take their business outdoors. KITV4.

Underground obstacles threaten to further delay Honolulu’s rail project. There’s more trouble for the embattled rail project. Hawaii News Now.

Kaneohe cemetery, Hawaiian Memorial Park, expansion plan wins approval. The largest funeral and cemetery service company in the world will be allowed to expand Hawaiian Memorial Park in Kaneohe under a state decision Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

State, but not county, workers face furloughs.
Gov. David Ige’s proposal to help patch the state’s budget hole by instituting twice-monthly unpaid furlough days for most union employees won’t affect Hawaii County workers, at least in the short term. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo veterans home administration needs to be replaced, Mayor Harry Kim says.
Hawaii island Mayor Harry Kim renewed calls Wednesday for the immediate suspension of the administration of the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home, where he said documented shortcomings have resulted in too many COVID-19 deaths. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Pushing Management Change at Hilo Veterans Home
. A decision on the future management of Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home could be made Thursday, Hawai‘i County’s mayor said this afternoon. Big Island Now.

State Says Veterans Home Staff Receiving Death Threats. Staff at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home in Hilo have been getting death threats, according to a state emergency management official. Hawaii Public Radio.

As death toll at Hilo veteran’s home mounts, family calls for criminal investigation. Mary Benevides says prior to contracting COVID-19, her dad was always smiling, joking and doting on his grandchildren. Hawaii News Now.

DOH: No further environmental review needed for PGV permit. Puna Geothermal Venture — which hopes to produce electricity again by the end of the month following delays in rebuilding the facility after it was partially destroyed by lava two years ago — has cleared a hurdle in renewing its air pollution control permit from the state. Tribune-Herald.

DLNR plans to dredge existing Pohoiki boat ramp to reopen access to ocean. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources wants to dredge the landlocked Pohoiki boat ramp to re-establish ocean access in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Maui allocates $20 million in CARES Act money for coronavirus recovery. Maui County has allocated over $20 million in CARES Act funds to pay for economic recovery initiatives ranging from farm and ranch grants to support the county’s food system, to buying computers for students who are attending school online. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 30 medical workers on Maui at risk of losing their jobs after the planned closure of a surgery center. Kaiser Permanente announced it will shut down various services at its Wailuku Clinic on Maui because of financial troubles. Hawaii News Now.

$3 Million Project to Repave War Memorial Stadium Parking Lot Nears Completion. War Memorial Stadium parking lot will reopen to the public on Monday, Sept. 28, after completion of a $3 million project to repave the 51-year-old parking lot, install new underground drainage and plant nearly 130 new trees. Maui Now.

Liquor director candidates may be revealed next week. Licensees ask for leader who will improve relations. Maui News.

Ha‘ikū’s Town Hall to Focus on Maui Water Use and Development Plan. The Ha‘ikū Community Association hosts a virtual town hall from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020 via Zoom or Facebook Live. The town hall meeting will focus on helping Ha‘ikū residents better understand the effects of the Maui Water Use and Development Plan. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai Voters Will Decide On 6 Changes To The County Charter. Some of the proposed amendments are significant but political observers wonder if a less informed public will just leave them blank. Civil Beat.

$1.75 M to help Kaua‘i cattle ranchers. Many cattle ranchers ship off their herds to O‘ahu or other destinations to be finished and processed, but with market disruptions made prevalent due to the coronavirus pandemic, they’re unable to and are now forced to rethink what to do with their livestock. Garden Island.

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Airport facial recognition draws concerns, Maui lawmaker cited for sitting on beach, container ship loses its load, Oahu to bring back karaoke, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PC: Sen. Kai Kahele
Young Brothers cargo ship in Hilo Harbor PC:Sen. Kai Kahele
At least 21 shipping containers fall off Young Brothers barge. At least 21 containers fell off a Young Brothers barge en route to Hilo Harbor on Monday morning, but the cause has yet to be confirmed. Tribune-Herald.

Multiple containers fall overboard in waters off Hilo. Improper loading and possible overloading of an interisland freight barge and employing practices to avoid paying overtime may have played a role in at least 21 shipping containers going overboard early Monday morning off the Hilo coast, alleges state Sen. Kai Kahele (D, Hilo), who is calling for a Senate investigation into the incident. Star-Advertiser.

Shipping Containers Fall Overboard Near Hilo Harbor. 21 shipping containers were counted as having toppled into the water on Monday, according to a U.S. Coast Guard update. 12 were still missing as of the early afternoon. Big Island Video News.

21 Shipping Containers Fall Overboard Near Hilo. Nine of the 40-foot (12-meter) shipping containers were located and 12 remained missing, the Coast Guard said. Hawaii Public Radio.

Authorities now say at least 21 shipping containers fell off barge in Big Island waters. The Coast Guard says at least 21 shipping containers fell from a Young Brothers barge off the Big Island early Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Young Brothers Cargo Containers Slip Off Barge Into Hilo Bay. At least 21 cargo containers slipped off of a Young Brothers barge and into the waters surrounding Hilo Bay on Monday morning. Big Island Now.

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Plan for opening trans-Pacific travel to come this week. Gov. David Ige is expected to announce the state’s adoption of a COVID-19 testing protocol that would allow some travelers to bypass the mandatory 14-day quarantine soon. Star-Advertiser.

Lieutenant Governor Josh Green provides clarity on COVID-19 confusion. Many are looking for some clarity surrounding COVID-19, as questions arise about a potential second wave, wearing face masks, and testing for the virus. KITV4.

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ACLU raises concern over facial recognition equipment set to be used at airports. As the state tests out thermal screening and facial recognition equipment at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport this week. The American Civil Liberties Union is again raising concerns. KITV4.

Facial ID software draws concerns from ACLU. The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii has “serious concerns” about the state’s planned use of facial recognition software in airport terminals to fight the spread of COVID-19. Tribune-Herald.

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Lawmakers poised to tackle COVID-19. After a three-month, COVID-19-induced suspension of this year’s legislative session, state lawmakers rolled up their sleeves and reconvened Monday hoping to adopt a plan to use federal funds to help Hawaii residents and businesses cope with the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers Return To Spend Federal Aid, Plug Budget Hole. State lawmakers return to the Capitol today for what is expected to be the final three weeks of this year’s legislative session. Their main focus will be allocation $618 million in federal pandemic assistance. Hawaii Public Radio.

State lawmakers work to fix $413M shortfall. State lawmakers are back in session Monday with a daunting task. They’re looking to fix a budget shortfall of more than $400 million. KHON2.

Lawmakers reconvene to appropriate virus relief funds. Hawaii lawmakers on Monday reconvened their 2020 legislative session to flesh out details for how they plan to spend more than $600 million in federal coronavirus relief funds. Hawaii Public Radio.

House Lawmakers Call for Robust Nursing Home COVID-19 Testing. Representative John M. Mizuno, Chair of the House Health Committee, and Representative Rida Cabanilla, a registered nurse, are asking all nursing homes to comply with recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and have COVID-19 testing for all their residents. Maui Now.

Social service workers rally at state Capitol. As the state Legislature reconvened Monday, social service workers rallied at the Capitol asking lawmakers to allocate $362 million of the federal coronavirus relief funds to “vulnerable” families, who need food, housing assistance, health care, child care, domestic violence assistance, kupuna wellness checks and more. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii state senators pay tribute to fallen colleague Breene Harimoto. State senators reconvening for the first time in three months devoted much of their floor session today to speaking about their colleague, Breene Harimoto, who died last Thursday after a lengthy battle with cancer. Star-Advertiser.

Negotiations Begin On Hawaii Police Misconduct Bill. The Legislature couldn’t come to an agreement on House Bill 285 in 2019 but public pressure has forced lawmakers to reconsider it again this session. Civil Beat.

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Survey of public school teachers finds many saw low student participation in distance learning. The state Education Department recently surveyed Hawaii teachers in hopes of illuminating how many public school students actually participated in remote learning after campuses closed in March. Hawaii News Now.

Teachers Report Difficulties In Reaching Students, Remote Learning During School Closures. The survey went out to all Department of Education teachers and students, with a parent survey now in progress. Civil Beat.

Distance learning survey results to be used in planning next year. The Department of Education released its results of a recent distance-learning survey. KHON2.

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Interviews with Union Leaders: Randy Perreira, President, Hawai‘i American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations. Hawaii Business magazine.

Federal census of isle homeless is rescheduled for September. The once-every-decade federal census of Hawaii’s homeless population — which has been pushed to late September because of the COVID-19 pandemic — has the potential to affect Hawaii’s share of $800 billion in federal spending over the next 10 years, according to federal officials. Star-Advertiser.

Solar applications skyrocket as Hawaii residents seek savings on electricity. With electric bills going up due to people staying home and working from home, it appears more are looking toward other alternatives. According to HECO, applications for solar power in Hawaii are up 40% in 2020. KHON2.

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Hawaii records 4 new coronavirus cases; statewide total now at 816. Hawaii recorded four new coronavirus cases today, as the statewide total of infections since the start of the outbreak rose to 816, state Department of Health officials said in their daily midday count. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 22: 4 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. All the new cases were on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Oahu


Mayor Caldwell sends request to Governor Ige proposing guidelines for allowing live music to return to restaurants, bars. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has sent a request to Governor David Ige that would allow live music in restaurants and bars on O'ahu. KITV4.

Honolulu karaoke lounges to soon allow singing indoors. The Honolulu mayor is making changes to bar and restaurant COVID-19 guidelines, currently singing is not allowed inside businesses, making it a tough reopening for karaoke establishments, but a new order sent to the governor makes adjustments to the rule. KHON2.

Medical workers and their families inaugurate Waikiki Aquarium’s careful reopening. Monday was the first day of the aquarium’s “soft” reopening, which it was celebrating with a weeklong “Mahalo Medic” program, providing free and exclusive admission to Hawaii medical professionals. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii at Manoa to boost study of life sciences with new facility. The Life Sciences Building just completed at the University of Hawaii at Manoa will unite researchers, professors and students across disciplines in a thriving field where Hawaii has a natural edge, administrators say. Star-Advertiser.

Royal Hawaiian Groin to be finished in July. After helping keep sand on the Waikiki shoreline throughout 93 years of seasonal waves, currents and tides, storms and rising seas, the Royal Hawaiian Groin, a rock-and-concrete jetty that extends out into the blue-green waters of Waikiki before gently curving toward Diamond Head, is now in the midst of its own sea change. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Filling a need: Nonprofit steps up to cover sanitation at Kiholo Bay. Hui Aloha Kiholo is working to make a crappy situation better. West Hawaii Today.

Nearly $1 Million in Community Development Block Grants Coming to Big Island. Nearly $1 million in block grant funding is on its way to the Big Island, and the county is asking the public for proposals for its distribution. Big Island Now.

Extraordinary Tenure Ends For USGS HVO Leader. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Scientist-in-Charge Tina Neal is returning to the Alaska Volcano Observatory. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Lawmaker, candidate cited for emergency rule violations. State House Rep. Tina Wildberger said she and her husband were “actively stretching in the sand” and “socially distanced” when they were issued citations last month for violating Gov. David Ige’s stay-at-home order amid the COVID-19 crisis. Maui News.

Sinenci proposes county Ag Department. Maui County Council Member Shane Sinenci has proposed a charter amendment that would create a county Department of Agriculture. Maui News.

Micro Business Loan Program Receives Additional $750,000. Mayor Michael Victorino announced today the extension of the Micro Business Loan Program with an additional $750,000 of funding from the County of Maui. Maui Now.

Maui Bus Wifi Trial Project in Hāna. The Maui Bus will be launching a Wifi Bus on Wednesday for a two-week trial period in East Maui. Maui Now.

Maui’s Wailea Blue Course to Close Until Further Notice. The Wailea Golf Club will continue to maintain the Blue Course and intends to reopen it when the economy improves. Maui Now.
Mauians train to aid during pandemic. UH-DOH program equipping health workers, residents to trace, do outreach. Maui News.

Kauai

Coronavirus Has Offered Kauai’s Mayor A Political Breakout Moment. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami’s decisive handling of the COVID-19 pandemic — and the Garden Isle’s relatively low disease infection count — has won him praise locally and statewide. Civil Beat.

Kauai Mayor on pandemic: “We had to do some unique, out-of-the-box creative solutions to address our challenges”. The island of Kauai boasts more beaches than any other Hawaiian Island, something officials kept in mind when making decisions to keep the “garden isle” free of the coronavirus. KHON2.

Could New Kauai Proposal Be A Model For Bringing Back Tourism?. The plan to test travelers twice with a six-day quarantine in a designated hotel would apply to returning residents as well. Civil Beat.

A Ray of Light. Local Kapa‘a business owner Jeni Kaohelaulii considered creative ways to revive Old Kapa‘a Town, which appeared boarded up and bleak during the COVID-19 lockdown. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai Cat Sanctuary hopes to reopen soon since closing in March. Cat lovers across the country can’t wait until a home for feral cats reopens on Lanai. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Tropical Storm Olivia weakens, set to bisect island chain, Marriott hotel workers on Honolulu and Maui vote to strike, Kawananakoa loses control of $215M fortune, Waikiki beachboys lose lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

NOAA
Tropical Storm Olivia 5 a.m. Tuesday
Olivia has begun a gradual weakening trend, but it is still forecast to move over the islands as a tropical storm as early as Tuesday night, meaning it could bring potentially damaging impacts to parts of the state. Hawaii News Now.

Tropical Storm Olivia weakens slightly as it closes in on Hawaii. Located about 355 miles east-northeast of Kahului and 440 miles east of Honolulu, Olivia clocked in with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph and was headed west at 10 mph at 5 a.m. today, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gears Up — Again — For Olivia. After the islands were mostly spared from Hurricane Lane’s wrath, leaders aim to keep residents on guard against a tropical storm. Civil Beat.

What's closing or canceled as Olivia targets island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Olivia weakened to a tropical storm Monday as it advanced toward the Hawaiian islands but that didn’t stop the state’s visitor industry from unleashing a whirlwind of safety preparations. Star-Advertiser.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says that although they are stretched thin, they are ready to respond to all natural disasters. FEMA has been busy with multiple hurricanes threatening the United States, however agency officials got a head start since they were already activated in Hawaii for the past two disasters. KITV.

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Abigail Kawananakoa’s bid to regain control of her $215 million trust was blocked in court Monday by a judge who concluded the woman’s mental capacity is impaired due to the stroke she suffered last year. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Appoints New Trustee For Kawananakoa Fortune. The judge ruled Abigail Kawananakoa can make simple decisions but not complex ones such as altering her 2001 trust. Civil Beat.

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Future of Health Care in the Pacific Uncertain As End to Compact Funding Nears. U.S. economic assistance under the Compact of Free Association is set to expire in five years – dealing quite a blow to the health care systems in three Pacific Island nations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Brett Kavanaugh Scares Native Rights Advocates. Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono is just one of those who worries the Supreme Court nominee could upend hard-fought policy and funding gains. Civil Beat.

‘We Don’t Give Up’: Identifying America’s Long-Lost Soldiers. The POW/MIA forensic lab in Hawaii has more than 1,400 service members who have been missing in action, some for decades. Civil Beat.

Unite Here Local 5 hotel workers voted Monday to authorize a strike at six Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu and on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotel workers vote to authorize strike on Marriott. UNITE HERE Local 5 hotel workers from six Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu and Maui have voted to authorize a strike with a 95% yes vote. KHON2.

The votes are in and hotel workers have authorized a strike, these hotel workers work at six Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu and Maui. KITV.

Thousands Poised To Strike At Some Of Waikiki’s Biggest Hotels. The union vote could lead to a work stoppage by about 3,500 workers, including those at the Royal Hawaiian, Westin Moana Surfrider and Sheraton Waikiki. Civil Beat.

Oahu

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument to close Tuesday. Due to the tropical storm warning now in effect for Oahu, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument will close the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 11, to allow staff time to prepare for heavy winds and rain. KHON2.

East Oahu residents worried about streams after April historic flooding. County crews are clearing out streams and ditches ahead of Olivia, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Fishermen feel vacating the ports ahead of a tropical storm could be dangerous. On Monday night, ports in Hawaii and Maui counties were expected to go into what's called condition "Zulu," meaning sustained gale force winds are expected within 12 hours. Hawaii News Now.

Broken pipe causes cloudy, murky waters in Waikiki. The Department of Health is investigating a water main break at the Hale Koa Hotel. Hawaii News Now.

First Circuit Judge Dean E. Ochiai ruled this morning to dismiss the last remaining motions in Star Beachboys court proceedings against the city and Dive Oahu, the city’s current operator of the Waikiki beachboy concessions. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit alleges former Hawaii priest molested children. The lawsuit against the Diocese of Honolulu and Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers was filed today on behalf of a man who says a priest, James Jackson, abused him when he was a child in the 1980s. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

State and county officials advised residents to have 14 days worth of food and pet food, a full tank of gas and other emergency supplies ready as Tropical Storm Olivia is set to arrive either late tonight or early Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Volcano House and Kilauea Military Camp work to reopen. Two attractions in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are expected to be reopened to the public the same day the national park returns to service later this month. Tribune-Herald.

Leilani Estates returnees assess lava damage. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic emissions down, West Hawaii skies clearest in years. West Hawaii Today.

Students on Monday blessed with ti leaf and salt water the four corners of the site of a new creative arts, science and technology building at Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Alleged threat briefly puts schools in lockdown. A suspect is in police custody after allegedly threatening gun violence Monday morning at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Algae biofuel company to launch commercial work. A company that set out 11 years ago to test whether it could make fuel oil from algae in Hawaii announced Friday that it is ceasing research work after succeeding, and will try to build a commercial production plant in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

As Maui braces for the impacts associated with Tropical Storm Olivia, Maui Now is keeping track of what’s open and closed with an ongoing list of closures, cancellations and notices. Maui Now.

Still scarred from Lane, Upcountry Maui braces for Tropical Storm Olivia. Maui County is staging resources island-wide, but both residents and emergency officials are keeping a close eye on areas still recovering from hurricane-turned-tropical-storm Lane. KHON2.

Haleakala National Park to close ahead of Olivia. The National Park Service is closing Haleakala National Park ahead of Tropical Storm Olivia. KHON2.

Ag program for keiki gets growing. Goals is to nurture a new crop of farmers by sowing seeds early. Maui News.

Ledcor resort project on Maui more than half sold out. The Luana Garden Villas, Ledcor Group’s townhome project on 10 acres in the Honua Kai Resort & Spa on Maui, has sold out more than half of its 72 units since launching sales earlier this year. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The County of Kauai will hold an open house and presentation on Wednesday to provide an update on the Lihue Town Core Mobility and Revitalization project. Garden Island.

Immediate water conservation notice issued for Haena. he Department of Water issued an immediate water conservation notice at 6:25 p.m. Monday for all Haena customers until further notice, due to the recent damage to the hydrant and system in the area that has affected water tank levels. Garden Island.

A disaster response team is planning a one-day rebuild on the North Shore. Garden Island.

Monday, July 9, 2018

Hawaii revising union laws following Janus decision, ballot testing and election updates, Maui council aide gets $100k county grant, volcano still simmers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Union rally, 2009 All Hawaii News file photo
State Moves to Stop Fee Collection for Non-Union Employees. The policy, outlined in a memo from the State Comptroller, was spurred by last week’s U.S. Supreme Court decision in the case of Janus v AFSCME. Hawaii Public Radio.

How Gov Candidates Would Grow Hawaii’s Economy. The next governor will face the challenge of not just creating new jobs, but creating high-paying jobs that allow people to afford to live in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige wins over environmentalists. It wasn’t more than two months into his term as governor when David Ige ignited the ire of environmentalists by nominating a development lobbyist for Castle & Cooke to lead the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Hawaii News Now enables Tulsi Gabbard’s campaign hypocrisy. Hawaii News Now.

Ballot machines tested ahead of primary election. KHON2.

Important dates you should know for the upcoming election. Hawaii News Now.

'Broken Promises': Documentary on Department of Hawaiian Homelands to release at Capitol. A new documentary centered around problems within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will be released at the State Capitol on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Public schools could soon be open for business. SB2051 would not only help students learn about business, but allow public schools to generate their own revenue. KHON2.

Private schools across the state are raising tuition by an average of 4 percent this fall, with the bill reaching $24,780 at Punahou School, the state’s largest independent campus. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture has issued the first licenses to growers under the state’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Program. Garden Island.

Program Fighting Childhood Obesity Secures $2 million in Funding. Maui Now.

Big Island, Kauai see higher home prices in first half of 2018. Condominium prices on the Big Island rose by double digits during the first half of this year, while Kauai saw double-digit gains in sales for both single-family homes and condominiums. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The latest vision of Laie’s future will get its first public airing at today’s City Council Planning Committee meeting, and the draft’s author expects the sparks to fly again in a dispute that’s dragged on for years. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal for more housing in Laie, BYU expansion garners mixed reaction. On Monday, city council members will hold a special meeting that is expected to draw supporters and opponents of a controversial development plan for part of Oahu's North Shore. Hawaii News Now.

What Honolulu Rail Planners Can Learn From Puerto Rico. San Juan’s Tren Urbano, an elevated, heavy rail system like that planned in Honolulu, has struggled with low ridership and cost overruns. Civil Beat.

A Navy captain on active duty at Pearl Harbor has been censured for “repeatedly and improperly” accepting gifts from a Singapore-based defense contractor. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s Bright Retail Outlook May Not Linger.  Retail on Oahu has been growing over the past six months, but that could change as retailers confront two unfavorable conditions. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Marco Polo high rise almost one year after the fire. The deadly Marco Polo Condominium fire is considered one of the most destructive fires in Honolulu's history. KHON2.

Mobile phone company Sprint hitches gear to city light poles. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home prices dip but stay close to record. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Challengers in some Hawaii Island political races say the public is missing out on the back-and-forth of debates and candidate forums because the incumbents are no-shows. West Hawaii Today.

The Pahoa Community Center will open as a polling place on primary election day, Aug. 11, to allow residents hardest hit by the ongoing Kilauea eruption to register and vote on the same day. Star-Advertiser.

As a Puna geothermal plant enters its third month of a lava-triggered shutdown, its parent company affirmed its commitment to re-opening the facility and has told the 30 full-time workers they will remain on the payroll for at least a year. Star-Advertiser.

No significant change in volcanic activity. Tribune-Herald.

Community watches anxiously as lava closes in on Puna charter school. Hawaii News Now.

Several residents are determined to stay in their Leilani Estates homes. Star-Advertiser.

Kilauea eruption downsizes one of the Big Island’s largest orchid growers. Star-Advertiser.

While most of East Hawaii is seeing a wetter-than-average year so far, much of West Hawaii is parched. That’s particularly true for the Kona coffee belt — potentially bad news for this year’s coffee crop. Tribune-Herald.

Residents in the Laaloa Avenue area are one step closer to having a park of their own. A final environmental assessment with a finding of no significant impact for the long-planned project was published Sunday in the July 8 edition of the Office of Environmental Quality Control’s twice-a-month Environmental Notice. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Atay grant for queen’s events under review. $100,000 awarded to council member’s executive assistant. Maui News.

Ige signs bill to help tenants at Lahaina complex. Law begins process to condemn land under Front Street Apartments; provides $30 million for new construction. Maui News.

Pulehunui Industrial Park, Maui’s first and only subdivision to offer M3 Industrial zoning, is now complete and available to Maui businesses. Maui Now.

Maui Leads State in Timeshare Occupancy at 96%. Maui Now.

Kauai

Candidates at WKBPA meeting. The candidates for state representative for Kauai County District 16, Stephanie Iona and incumbent Dee Morikawa, will present their platforms. Garden Island.

County talks beach repair. April’s historic flooding brought in about 70,000 cubic yards of sand to Hanalei Bay, according to a study from the University of Hawaii. That damaged Weke Road, destroyed the comfort station at Black Pot Beach and left erosion up to 12 feet deep in some areas. Garden Island.

It could be months before reconstruction starts on Hanalei’s Weke Road — the sinkhole is still there and the road is still closed after April floods wiped it out. Garden Island.

Judge rules for developer in Coco Palms dispute, paves way for Kauai resort. A Hawaii developer will be able to lay groundwork for a resort in Kauai, ending court dealings in a lengthy property dispute. Associated Press.

Condominium sales jumped on Kauai last month, along with prices, while single-family homes posted a more modest price gain on flat sales, according to data from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Trump plans Hawaii stopover today, FEMA assesses homeowners' volcano damage, super PAC forms to support candidates as Elections 2018 kicks off, Waikiki beach boys fight simmers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

White House photo
President Donald Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un PC:The White House
President Donald Trump planned to make a brief stopover in Hawaii after leaving Singapore following nuclear negotiations with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Star-Advertiser.

President Donald Trump will stop in Hawaii after returning from his historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the White House announced Monday. Hawaii News Now.

President Donald Trump plans to visit Andersen Air Force Base on Guam and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii on his return trip from a historic summit with North Korea's Kim Jong Un in Singapore, the Associated Press is reporting, citing the White House. Pacific Daily News.

Carpenters council supports super PAC. The Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters — which previously backed the political action committee that mounted a multimillion-dollar campaign against former Gov. Ben Cayetano’s bid for Honolulu mayor against the rail project — is funding a new super PAC in hopes of influencing voters in the 2018 primary election. Star-Advertiser.

A Republican Governor Would Bring New Uncertainty To Rail Project. Some GOP candidates have called for radical changes in how the transit project moves forward, but they’ve also been light on specifics. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Politics Has Never Been For Sissies. Rough political attacks are nothing new. In 1874, supporters of Queen Emma physically assaulted backers of David Kalakaua in the aftermath of a royal election. Civil Beat.

Ohana Nui Concept To Address Sources of Poverty in Hawaii. The Ohana Nui program was adopted by the State Department of Human Services two years ago to address the root causes of poverty in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Tensions high as beach boys challenge decision to give concessions to Dive Oahu. It’s been two weeks since Dive Oahu has taken over the Kuhio Beach concessions and tensions continue to rise. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's Whole Foods Markets locations will start offering discounts to Amazon Prime members starting on Wednesday. KHON2.

Amazon Prime members will be able to take advantage of special savings at Whole Foods stores in Hawaii starting this week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

FEMA assesses damage; Kim estimates up to 700 homes were destroyed by lava. Tribune-Herald.

FEMA officials assessing damage from Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

The number of homes claimed by lava is now believed to be as high as 700 as vigorous eruptions on the Big Island continue. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA getting ready to offer grants up to $34,000. A federal agency is beginning on-the-ground assessments this week on Hawaii island to determine which residents may be eligible for grant money because they lost their homes to lava. Star-Advertiser.

FEMA assessing damage and lava impacts on residents. Right now efforts are underway to help residents who lost their homes get back on their feet. KITV.

Kilauea Unleashes More Small Blasts, Snaking Lava. Scientists warn against venturing too close to lava hitting water, saying it could expose people to dangers from flying debris. Associated Press.

VIDEO: USGS Kilauea volcano update, June 11, 2018. Tribune-Herald.

FEMA regional administrator Robert Fenton joined Mayor Harry Kim for a media conference in Hilo on Monday. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiian Airlines is trimming its Big Island schedule for Hilo and Kona by a total of three daily round-trip flights beginning next month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines is reducing the number of flights between Honolulu and the Big Island starting next month. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Airlines cuts daily flights to Big Island in July due to volcanic activity. KHON2.

Trial has been set in the case of the first individual accused of burglary in Leilani Estates during the current state of emergency because of Kilauea volcano lava. Tribune-Herald.

UH Hilo has been lending a hand to USGS scientists by providing real time chemistry analysis of lava samples. KHON2.

Vog From Kilauea Increases The Need For Classroom Air Conditioning. The last weeks of the school year were hard on some Big Island schools, and there’s concern about what’ll happen when they reopen Aug. 6. Civil Beat.

A GoFundMe account established in May by St. Louis Cardinals second baseman and Hilo native Kolten Wong has raised nearly $75,000 toward its $200,000 disaster relief goal in the month since eruption activity began in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Prospective governors, lieutenant governors in Kailua-Kona Friday. Candidates for the Hawaii’s highest office are headed to Kailua-Kona this week for a forum in advance of the gubernatorial primary scheduled for Aug. 11. West Hawaii Today.

Waimea Candidate Forum for Governor and Lt. Governor. Big Island Now.

Two Hawaii County Council members and two Big Island statehouse incumbents cruised to early victory this week when no candidates filed to oppose them. West Hawaii Today.

Procedural changes were made after case evidence from police storage lockers was compromised by animals, according to Hawaii island police. Associated Press.

Maui

Six doctors have joined Kaiser Permanente on Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island–this includes three new physicians on Maui. Maui Now.

The Holua backcountry camping area of Haleakala National Park will be closed to campers the night of June 13, 2018 to allow staff to control non-native Argentine ants. Maui Now.

Hawaii Governor David Ige stopped by Maui’s Kokua Puna donation drive over the weekend, sharing donations of his own and words of appreciation for volunteers. Maui Now.

Kauai

Flood recovery efforts push ahead. It’s been nearly three months since the historic flooding wreaked havoc on Kauai and there’s still much work to be done. Garden Island.

The office of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will host a workshop on U.S. Department of Agriculture and Economic Development Administration federal grants on Thursday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Friday, October 20, 2017

Turtle Bay to be sold, AG Chin could run for Congress, Kauai man gets one year for stabbing turtle, Honolulu rail price tag questioned, Hawaii unemployment close to all-time low, former HPD chief prepared for arrest, Maui moves to mail newspaper delivery, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
Turtle Bay Resort courtesy photo
Turtle Bay Resort looks likely to be sold for $350M. A giant real estate investment firm and former owner of major Hawaii hotels has made a deal to buy Turtle Bay Resort. As part of a preservation deal, the state in 2010 paid $45 million for 53 acres fronting Kawela Bay plus an easement prohibiting development on 568 acres that includes land below and around Turtle Bay’s golf courses. Star-Advertiser.

A New York-based real estate investment firm has struck a deal to buy the Turtle Bay Resort. According to a report by Real Estate Alert, investment firm Blackstone is paying $330 million for the hotel. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate is flirting with making state history. The seasonally adjusted number dipped to 2.5 percent in September and is now one-tenth of a percentage point away from its all-time low, according to U.S. Labor Department data that go back to 1976. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 2.5 percent in September, from 3 percent during the same month a year ago, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii has joined 11 other states and the District of Columbia to argue in federal appeals court that all states must be allowed to continue to impose their own customized restrictions on firearms. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Doug Chin Sure Sounds Like He Might Run For Congress. The AG’s dominance of the headlines may be scaring off potential candidates for outgoing Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s seat. Civil Beat.

The highest-ranking Republican elected official in Hawaii plans to run for governor in 2018. Rep. Andria Tupola, the minority leader in the state House of Representatives, said she will make a formal announcement next month. Civil Beat.

Can School Gardens Get Kids To Eat Their Vegetables? More than 80 percent of Hawaii schools have some kind of garden, part of a booming, nationwide farm-to-school movement. Civil Beat.

More than 40 percent of Hawaii children have experienced trauma including the death, divorce or incarceration of a parent, and violence, drug abuse or mental illness in the home, a federal study shows. Star-Advertiser.

How A UH Scientist Hopes To Improve Early Kidney Disease Detection. The research is particularly vital for Hawaii, where one in seven residents have chronic kidney disease. Civil Beat.

Island Air lost the use of two of its five planes, cut its flights by more than 40 percent and placed some employees on reserve with reduced pay prior to filing for bankruptcy protection this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines parent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: HA) posted a 27 percent decline in profit during the third quarter of 2017 compared to last year, while revenue increased 7.1 percent to $719.6 million, according to earnings released Thursday by the Honolulu-based company. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines achieved record revenue in the third quarter but saw its net income decline 27 percent after taking two charges totaling $50 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive about $1.2 million as part of a $120 million nationwide settlement with General Motors over allegations the Detroit-based carmaker hid safety issues related to faulty ignition switches in its vehicles. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A federal grand jury tasked with deciding whether criminal charges should be brought against retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, wife and Deputy City Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and other HPD officers, wound up two years of hearings Thursday, with U.S. attorneys mum about whether any indictments will be handed down. Star-Advertiser.

No Criminal Indictment Yet In Federal Police Corruption Probe. An attorney for the former Honolulu police chief and his prosecutor wife say the couple are prepared to be arrested by the FBI. Civil Beat.

After two years, the federal grand jury investigating public corruption in the Honolulu Police Department has finally wrapped up. Hawaii News Now.

Thursday is the last day for a federal grand jury that has been meeting for two years on a public corruption probe. KITV.

In its most recent report, the federal contractor overseeing Honolulu rail says it is “not confident” the project’s total construction price tag will remain at $8.2 billion.Star-Advertiser.

Ilikai Hotel workers belonging to Unite Here Local 5 walked off the job Thursday to protest high workloads, low wages and stagnant contract negotiations. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel workers at odds with management are picketing in front of the Ilikai Hotel and Luxury Suites in Waikiki. The workers walked off the job Thursday morning. KITV.

Monster homes are gobbling up communities — and it's all legal. Hawaii News Now.

Some streets in Waipahu may be getting a makeover as part of the city's effort to make them safer. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii notified students today that it has confirmed three cases of mumps on its Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's mumps outbreak hits 500 cases; 3 reported at UH. Hawaii News Now.

Students who only had 15 minutes to eat lunch are being given a little more time to eat. But parents say it’s still not enough. KHON2.

Animal advocates are moving out more than 90 dogs from an entrenched homeless camp under the airport viaduct that's set to swept next week. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu startup accelerator Elemental Excelerator has selected 12 startups to participate in next year’s cohort. Pacific Business News.

Reef Capital Ventures has received a $275,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, through its Economic Development Administration’s Regional Innovation Strategies program. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

It’s back to the drawing board in the search for a mass transit administrator, after Mayor Harry Kim decided the advertised salary isn’t high enough to attract the best candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is keeping its options open as it looks for new office space in Hilo. In addition to negotiating a lease for the former Safeway space at Prince Kuhio Plaza, the county also is seeing if it’s feasible to buy a building at 1055 Kinoole St., where the Office of Aging rents space. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation will extend four lanes on Highway 130 to Shower Drive over the next month as it restripes a 2-mile stretch of pavement. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County officials hope to heighten security with surveillance cameras at baseyards around the island in light of continued thefts. West Hawaii Today.

The Honomu Park banyan tree that fell Sunday will cost the county tens of thousands of dollars, Hawaii County’s managing director said. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council adopted a resolution Wednesday urging a peaceful solution to the conflict with North Korea. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Beginning Monday, November 13, home delivery to Maui News subscribers will be via the United States Postal Service. Maui News.

Kula woman is working to help mother on Puerto Rico. Maui group collecting goods and donations to send to people trapped on island. Maui News.

Water can be a contentious subject, especially in East Maui, where streams have long been diverted for sugar. Now, a battle to restore these streams is coming to an end. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

A 36-year-old Lihue man has been sentenced to a year in jail for attacking an endangered sea turtle on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Lance Kaaumoana, 36, was sentenced this week to serve one year in jail for attacking an endangered Pacific green sea turtle in April. Garden Island.

The initial investigation into the deaths of five pilot whales at Kalapaki Beach last Friday showed “no obvious cause of death.” Garden Island.

Wildlife officials are still unsure what caused seven pilot whales to beach themselves along a Kauai beach. Associated Press.

Preliminary necropsies for five whales that died in a mass stranding on Kauai last week showed "no obvious cause of death" for the animals. Hawaii News Now.

The Kauai Police Department’s Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team along with members of the state of Hawaii Sheriff Division conducted a special mission of the Kapaa area on Wednesday, which led to multiple arrests. Garden Island.

Kamalani Kai Playbridge will get sprucing up and a new name. Garden Island.

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Legislature begins conference committees, homeless efforts stall, few use cesspool replacement tax credit, Kauai water agreement restores stream, Maui audit shows post office demolition errors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Sen. J. Kalani English
Legislative conference committee, courtesy Sen. J. Kalani English
The Legislature’s critical conference committee period kicked off Tuesday at the Capitol with Hawaii lawmakers making earnest statements about how they have found a lot to agree on when it comes to the state’s $28 billion budget. Civil Beat.

The traditional Hawaiian value “hookipa” prompted state lawmakers to push a resolution to make Hawaii a sanctuary state, honoring Hawaii’s history as a home to a diverse group of immigrants who dramatically shaped the island state’s economy and culture. Associated Press.

Homelessness: A Lot Of Talk But No ‘Game-Changer’ At The Legislature. Some bills are still alive, with their fate to be decided in conference committees. Civil Beat.

There's nearly 90,000 cesspools across Hawaii, and many could be polluting our groundwater. That fact prompted the state to offer tax-credits to home-owners to clean up and clear out their sewage, but very few have switched to safer septic systems. KITV.

A new poll sheds light on some of the most controversial issues facing the state, and shows opinions aren't as divided as some might think. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Education closed out 19 employee misconduct investigations during the first three months of the year, resulting in six terminations and five resignations or retirements in lieu of termination, according to data shared Tuesday with the state school board. Star-Advertiser.

New school lunch program emphasizes fresh local fare made from scratch. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines said a shift in the wind blew it off course in February and resulted in the worst monthly on-time performance in more than a decade. Star-Advertiser.

Federal legislation to improve tsunami detection and climate forecasting, long championed by Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii, was signed into law by President Donald Trump on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Commentary: The United Public Workers, the union which represents some 13,000 state and county blue collar workers, including about 1,200 prison guards, believes the Department of Public Safety is violating the state constitution and state law by refusing to promote prison guards into supervisory positions if they have been suspended from their jobs within the previous two years. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Commission said late this afternoon that it had received 38 applications for police chief, roughly 25 to 30 percent of them from out-of-state candidates. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens are applying to be the next chief of the embattled Honolulu Police Department. Associated Press.

Under a new lease deal, the Missouri memorial will stay in Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

As sit-lie ban expands, businesses wonder: Where will volatile homeless camp go next? Hawaii News Now.

Waimanalo Gym Closure Leaves A Town Feeling Sidelined. Residents are frustrated by the long wait to start a $3.12 million repair job on the damaged gym, which was a “safe haven” for kids. Civil Beat.

Manoa residents want their rough roads fixed, and some would rather not wait for the city to get around to fixing them. They’re offering to do the work themselves. KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric Co.’s time-of-use program, which makes energy use cheaper during the day and more expensive at night, is proving popular among retirees. Star-Advertiser.

PacRim Marketing Group, one of the largest public relations firms in Hawaii, is rebranding following its acquisition by Vector, Inc., a Tokyo-based communications firm. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Substance abuse programs, elderly transportation, domestic violence and Native Hawaiian health care took top billing Tuesday as a Hawaii County Council panel recommended disbursing $1.5 million to 85 community nonprofits. West Hawaii Today.

Kolekole Park has been closed due to lead levels in excess of safe amounts, according to Mayor Harry Kim’s office. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Medical Center received a top grade from the nonprofit Leapfrog Group — a leading proponent of patient safety. Tribune-Herald.

Veterans troubled over newly tapped director of Hawaii VA health system. West Hawaii Today.

Moanike‘ala Akaka, longtime Hawaiian activist and advocate, former Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee and a founding mother of the renaissance of Hawaiian language and culture in the 1970s, died Saturday at Hospice of Hilo Pohai Malama Facility after a monthslong battle with cancer. She was 72. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


A 47-page audit was released today by the Maui Office of the County Auditor on the demolition of the Old Wailuku Post Office. Maui Now.

Another 6 megawatts — enough for possibly 850 residential rooftop photovoltaic systems — will become available for hookup to the grid on Maui, according to Maui Electric Co. Maui News.

VIDEO: Support Waiehu Golf Course Rally. Maui Now.

Controlling snail and slug populations is one of the most important steps in fighting the spread of rat lungworm disease, health and agricultural experts said Monday evening during a meeting at the Haiku Community Center. Maui News.

The new California owners of the Safeway and Longs Drugs-anchored Lahaina Cannery Mall on Maui plan to spend $18 million to renovate the 15-acre mall that will include nearly doubling the size of the Safeway store, the company said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

In a move all sides are calling historic, the Hawaii State Water Commission on Tuesday approved a mediated settlement that restores tens of millions of gallons of water a day to the Waimea River on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

In what’s being dubbed a “historic” agreement, groups representing cultural, environmental, agricultural and development interests have reached a settlement in a longstanding dispute over the diversion of millions of gallons of water on the west side of Kauai. Civil Beat.

After more than 100 years, water is being returned to the Waimea River. Garden Island.

Access and safety at Kee were among the top concerns at the Hanalei School Cafeteria on Tuesday, as community members gathered to hear updates about the Hanakapiai Bridge project and the Haena State Park Master Plan. Garden Island.

The state has cited a 39-year-old Lihue man after he allegedly tried to pry open the shell of a live Hawaiian green sea turtle using a knife and rock. Star-Advertiser.

Two gardeners said they were evicted from Kalihiwai Community Garden because they refused to sign a contract they claim didn’t match their original agreement. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the billionaire co-founder of Oracle Corp. and majority owner of the Hawaiian Island of Lanai, is looking for someone to run the operations of the 21 resort residential properties he purchased three years ago near the Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay. Pacific Business News.