Tourism ticks up, U.S. tests new weapon from Kauai, Hawaii Supreme Court allows Hawaiian Homelands to sue for state funds, Honolulu voters won't get to decide rail transit, Maui bus system struggling, Big Island marijuana advocates lose in court, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii will host a record 7.8 million tourists this year, leading to 2.2 percent growth in the state's economy, according to a recalibrated government forecast released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s state economists have revised their forecast upward for tourism in the state, predicting the number of visitors to the Islands will increase by 6.5 percent to top 7.7 million by the end of 2012. Pacific Business News.

The state, in violation of the Hawaii Constitution, has failed to adequately fund the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, according to a unanimous ruling by the Hawaii Supreme Court on Wednesday. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that Native Hawaiians can sue the state to provide sufficient funding for administrative and operating expenses for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, but not for the development of homestead lots. Star-Advertiser.


President Barack Obama's announcement Wednesday that he supports same-sex marriage — and Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney's response that marriage is for heterosexuals — is rippling through Hawaii politics. Civil Beat.


For the second time in four months, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has bought television ad time in Hawaii to support former Republican Gov. Linda Lingle's run for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Linda Lingle

 Former Governor Linda Lingle, candidate for Hawaii's open U.S. Senate seat, released the following statement today regarding the endorsement she has received from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Hawaii Reporter.


With Hawaii's Aug. 11 primary election three months away, several candidates in state and local races have stockpiled sizable campaign war chests, according to a Civil Beat analysis of campaign finance data. Civil Beat.


The state's chief negotiator is asking the teachers union to return to contract talks, and says the state "remains committed" to reaching a new agreement. Star-Advertiser.

After months of what's often been characterized as tedious and difficult hearings, the Hawaii Labor Relations Board finally heard from the union's most critical player in the convoluted negotiations over the famously failed teachers contract. Civil Beat.

Hawaii was among 16 states whose eighth-graders saw gains on a national science test in 2011, but students in the islands continued to score well below their peers nationally, results scheduled for release today show. Star-Advertiser.


Gov. Neil Abercrombie has released $37.5 million to address highway damage caused by stormy weather in March. Associated Press.

Donne Dawson has returned to State service as Film Industry Development Manager for the Hawai‘i Film Office. KHON2.

The U.S. Postal Service announced Wednesday it is set to cut hours at 13,000 rural facilities -- 12 of them in Hawaii -- instead of closing thousands of post offices across the country. KITV4.

The Marine Corps in Hawaii is officially transforming its Sea Stallion helicopter squadron into an Osprey aircraft squadron. KHON2.

Oahu

A proposed ballot question to ask voters whether the year-old Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation should be abolished failed Wednesday to win approval from the City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Attempt to Dismantle HART Fails. Hawaii Public Radio.

The City and County of Honolulu is thinking about setting aside 0.5 percent of its budget for charity, now that the Honolulu City Council has put a proposed charter amendment on the ballot for November despite objections from Mayor Peter Carlisle. Civil Beat.

A bill banning all commercial activity at Kailua Beach Park got the second of three needed approvals from the City Council Wednesday evening. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Peter Carlisle today announced a new City effort to address homelessness in urban Honolulu by creating specially focused transitional housing. Hawaii Independent.


Hawaii

Five Big Island post offices could see a reduction in their operating hours under new cost-saving measures proposed by the United States Postal Service. Tribune-Herald.

Patients spending time within Kona Community Hospital’s medical and surgical unit will rest a little more comfortably with the addition of 30 state-of-the-art beds this summer. West Hawaii Today.


One company has survived and is on track to serve the island with up to 5.5 million gallons of biodiesel per year, or 16,000 gallons a day. Tribune-Herald.

Keauhou mauka Kona coffee farmer Dave Bateman has announced he will run for the state House District 5 seat, representing Kona and Ka‘u. Bateman pulled papers May 9 making his official entry into the House 5 race. West Hawaii Today.

A Third Circuit judge has rejected a lawsuit filed against a host of county officials that accuses them of not fulfilling the requirements of a 2008 ballot initiative making the personal use of marijuana the “lowest law enforcement priority.” Big Island Now.


The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has closed the remote Muliwai Trail in North Kohala for public safety, effective yesterday through Friday May 11 and Monday May 14 through Thursday, May 17, while it conducts annual trail and campground maintenance and repair. Associated Press.


Maui

Maui County's public transit system is straining to meet the growing demand of bus riders. Maui News.

A forum on flooding in South Maui titled "Stormwater: Can a Problem Become a Resource?" will be held Friday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Maui News.

The funds released by Gov. Neil Abercrombie include $2 million for improvements to the Hana Highway between Uakea Road and Keawa Place.  The CIP project includes widening to provide two-way traffic flow, facilitating emergency vehicles responding from the nearby Hana Fire Station. Maui Now.

Kauai

missile courtesy NAVAIR Photo Point

The United States destroyed a target missile near Hawaii in the first successful test of a new defense tool. Hawaii News Now.

Starting today, the Kaua‘i County Council begins a four-day review of the supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2013 submitted Tuesday evening by Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. Garden Island.

The Kauai Planning Commission is approving a plan to nearly double the size of the Kauai Veterans Cemetery in Hanapepe. Associated Press.

Representatives of RSVP, Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions programs took to the street following a visit with Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. to bring their traffic safety messages to the public, traversing along Rice Street fronting the Kaua‘i Museum and First Hawaiian Bank’s Lihu‘e Branch. Garden Island.

Molokai

Construction of the new Kawela Bridge is scheduled to continue through January 2014, according to a statement from Goodfellow Bros., the Molokai company contracted to complete the work. The $8.4 million project is being paid for with $6.5 million in federal funds, $1.6 million in state money, and some additional funding, according to DOT spokesperson Michael Moscati. Molokai Dispatch.

Census shows more Pacific Islanders, especially on the Mainland, Navy schedules huge RIMPAC exercise, Obama meets Hawaii Five-0, Hawaii technology 30 years behind, state to start hiring again, Superferries get new names, Kauai smart meters create fears, Maui loads ballot with charter amendments, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian performance (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The number of people reporting they are of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Island ancestry has jumped 40 percent over the last decade across the United States and by 28 percent in the state, according to new data from the Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

Data released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau seem to show a growing movement of Pacific peoples away from Hawaii and toward the U.S. West and South. Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders living in Hawaii grew by 25.9 percent between 2000 and 2010, compared to 40 percent nationwide. West Hawaii Today.

University of Hawaii school of Hawaiian knowledge Dean Maenette Benham is hopeful and optimistic about the latest numbers released by the U.S. census bureau. KITV4.

U.S. Census figures crunched by state officials say more than one-fifth of Hawaii residents identify as at least part Native Hawaiian. Hawaii News Now.

The Navy says more than 40 ships will be gathering in the Hawaiian Islands this summer for the world's largest naval exercises. Associated Press.

Twenty-two nations, 42 ships, six submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in the biennial Rim of the Pacific exercise scheduled for June 29 to Aug. 3 in and around Hawaii, the Navy said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama greeted "Hawaii Five-0" star Grace Park and spoke about growing up in Hawaii and his connection to Asian and Pacific Americans during a speech in Washington tonight. Associated Press.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has transferred more than $875,000 since January 2011 to help keep the U.S. Senate under Democratic control. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s U.S. Senate race has local and national importance, Democratic candidate Ed Case told Rotary Club of Kona Mauka members Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii was one of four states to receive a failing grade on a new survey released by Thumbtack.com, which questioned company owners about their state’s friendliness toward small business. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii is mired in ineffective and inefficient paper-based, manual business processes with old technology," according to the strategic plan released Tuesday by the Office of Information Management and Technology. Civil Beat.

Since 1962, there has been only one override of a Democrat Governor’s veto. Hawaii Reporter.

After layoffs and hiring freezes the state is close to hiring again.  Lawmakers found money for nearly 100 state jobs this legislative session.  Many will go to depleted departments. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday announced the release of more than $37.5 million for various Capital Improvement Projects that address storm-related damage to highways and roadways, and to implement transportation safety improvements statewide. Garden Island.

Legislation before the governor could expand geothermal energy production across the state. Associated Press.

An increase in plastic debris floating in a zone between Hawaii and California is changing the environment of at least one marine critter, scientists reported. Associated Press.

The two high-speed ferries built for the shuttered Hawaii Superferry were renamed Tuesday by the vessels’ new owner — the U.S. Navy. Pacific Business News.

The former Hawaii Superferries Ala­kai and Hua­­kai have some new geography associated with their names. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced Tuesday their new monikers: the USNS Guam and the USNS Puerto Rico. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. posted another strong financial performance during the first three months of the year, bolstered by the third consecutive quarter of double-digit earnings increases at its electric company subsidiary. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. reported a first-quarter profit of $38.3 million, or 40 cents per diluted share, an increase of 34 percent compared to a profit of $28.5 million, or 30 cents per diluted share, for the same quarter in 2011. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii State Teachers Association President Wil Okabe has secured a second three-year term, fighting off a challenge from a member of his negotiations committee. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for May 9. Associated Press.

Oahu
The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has made 150,000 pages of records related to the federal approval of the rail proj­ect available on the HART website. Star-Advertiser.

Early on in his tenure, Daniel Grabauskas told the Honolulu City Council that our rail project is "amazing" because there will be no long-term debt. Civil Beat.

Drilling for support columns for Honolulu’s 5.3 billion dollar elevated rail system continues this week in Ewa. Hawaii Public Radio.

City Comfort Stations, Playgrounds, Shut Down for Years, But Mayor 'Rushes to Build Rail,' Honolulu Council Members Say. Hawaii Reporter.

The city of Honolulu is putting up $3.5 million toward the purchase of a building in urban Hono­lulu that would serve as housing for homeless people with special needs, such as disabilities or mental illness. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle has announced a new transitional housing project geared specifically toward helping people with special needs. Civil Beat.

A nearly two-year project is about to get underway that'll affect drivers in the Pearl City and Aiea areas. KHON2.

Those who feared the damage from an undersea sewer line in Kaneohe are relieved, but other neighborhoods worry about the Oneawa tunnel project. KITV4.

Hawaiian Telcom crews will be working through the night after city crews accidentally cut one of their main fiber lines. KHON2.

Franz "Shiro" Matsuo, the ukulele-strumming founder of Shiro's Saimin restaurants, died Thursday. He was 93. Star-Advertiser.
 
Hawaii

At long last, it’s official: Hilo High School will break ground on its eagerly anticipated new gym early next month. Tribune-Herald.

It’s a different kind of county council — one in which high school students run the show. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
A Maui County Council committee Monday advanced its version of the county budget that would raise property taxes, reduce overtime in many county departments and offer up less borrowing through bonds than proposed by Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

Charter Commission members voted Monday to send 10 of its 11 proposed charter amendments to voters, in all but one case rejecting Maui County Council recommendations to delete proposals. Maui News.

The chairmen of the departments of Land and Natural Resources and Agriculture and Mayor Alan Arakawa will be attending the first ever Neighbor Island meeting of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council today, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Maui News.

The US Department of Agriculture designated Maui County as a primary natural disaster area due to losses caused by an ongoing drought. Maui Now.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Tuesday submitted his supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2013. Carvalho’s revised proposal reflects an increase of $4.11 million in operational expenses and $2.56 million in capital improvement projects compared to his March 15 budget submittal. Garden Island.

When County Council Member Timothy Bynum’s case was dropped last Wednesday, it was clear that it took a special prosecutor from the State Attorney General less than a month to find that the Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney did not have a case to bring to court. Garden Island.

Workers at the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative have installed more than 300 meters on homes and businesses in Kapaa that allow the utility to monitor usage remotely and throughout the day. Within two years, the utility aims to replace all of the old meters with “smart meter" technology designed to help the utility smooth out power on the electric grid and add more renewable energy sources such as solar. Civil Beat.

The state is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to move hundreds of geese away from runways at the airport in Kauai. Associated Press.

Hawaii beaches eroding, teachers to vote on strike, exploratory drilling to be allowed without environmental assessment, Maui mulls property tax hikes while employees get bonuses, online voter registration bill passes, Cayetano-Inouye skirmish spreads, bill makes coffee certification voluntary, Okabe wins HSTA re-election, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hanauma Bay (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Federal officials say most beaches on Hawaii's most visited islands are disappearing. Associated Press.

A new study that quantifies how quickly Hawaii's beaches are being lost to erosion is arming researchers with information they hope will be used to protect the state's shorelines. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Republicans will be electing new national committee representatives at their state convention this weekend. Associated Press.

A bill passed by the Legislature, which still requires final approval from Gov. Neil Abercrombie, calls for $500,000 for the elections office to design an online voter registration system. Civil Beat.

When teachers take a second vote this month on a proposed contract they overwhelmingly rejected in January, they will also be asked whether to authorize a strike. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association launched a series of meetings on Monday about the contract offer its members previously rejected. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association held a meeting with its members tonight to discuss the benefits of a contract offer. KHON2.

Wil Okabe has edged out Paul Daugherty in the race to be president of the Hawaii State Teachers Association, unofficial election results show. Civil Beat.

The state Environmental Council is set to vote on exemptions that would allow drilling of exploratory geothermal wells up to a mile deep without an environmental assessment. West Hawaii Today.

Big Isle coffee growers are asking Gov. Neil Abercrombie to veto a bill that aims to do away with the state’s mandatory certifications of their coffee. Tribune-Herald.

Ben Cayetano's recent criticism of longtime Sen. Dan Inouye — that he's out of touch with his constituents and doesn't listen to them — is still reverberating. Civil Beat.

Hawaii will receive $1.2 million of a $100 million civil settlement with 44 other states and the District of Columbia over allegations that global health care company Abbott Laboratories, Inc. marketed a prescription drug for uses not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the state Office of Consumer Protection said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The sale of KHON-TV and 12 mainland sister-stations to publicly traded LIN Television Corp. by New Vision Television is part of a deal that includes a $330.4 million purchase price and assumption of about $12 million in debt. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for May 8. Associated Press.

Oahu

FACT CHECK — Caldwell: Carlisle Raised Property Tax Rates -- mostly true. Civil Beat.

A driving instructor who arranged for illegal immigrants to get Hawaii driver's licenses without taking the written and road tests is going to jail for three months. Star-Advertiser.

Resubmerging a plastic sewage pipe that has floated to the surface of the Ala Wai Canal could take up to three weeks, but city officials reiterated Monday that the pipe is not leaking and poses no health risks. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilman Tom Berg has introduced a bill that would allow the city’s Department of Transportation Services to regulate roadside memorials through a permitting system. KITV4.

Vandals desecrate Makaha Valley heiau. KHON2.

It wasn't much, but a 2.6 percent rise in April extended median price increases on sales of previously owned Oahu single-family homes to six straight months. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is considering a bill to raise Summer Fun registration fees next year.Hawaii Public Radio.

Camp for military kids loses funds. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu's mayor and a traditional Hawaiian blessing welcomed visitors to the newly renovated downtown satellite city hall. KITV4.

Hawaii

some Big Island physicians, who have scrambled over the last couple years to secure supplies, say they have yet to receive any relief. Tribune-Herald.

Sales of condominiums on the Big Island jumped 78 percent last month, and prices rose by 14 percent, while sales and prices of single-family homes there both showed small decreases, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

A West Hawaii contractor and a tile subcontractor must pay several hundred thousand dollars each to a South Kohala condominium association for defective construction. West Hawaii Today.

Astronomers using a Hawaii Island telescope reported the discovery of one of the most distant protocluster of galaxies yet found. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
The Maui County Council's Budget and Finance Committee is proposing property tax hikes to cover the county's unfunded pension and health fund obligations and is expected to vote today on whether to advance the council's budget to the full council. Maui News.

A majority of Maui County council members gave their staff thousands of dollars in bonuses last year while hundreds of Maui County employees endured five-percent pay reductions. Hawaii News Now.

Construction of the Maui Lani Center has been ongoing for months, with workers driving heavy earth-moving machines behind a black dust fence to ready the ground for construction of Safeway and other stores. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is concerned that its messages aren't getting through to its members. Pacific Business News.

The road to Maha‘ulepu will be closed from Wednesday through Saturday as Grove Farm Co. crews perform road maintenance with the cooperation of Jas W. Glover and Wa‘alani Enterprises. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Community College will celebrate its spring commencement exercises Friday at KCC Performing Arts Center, marking the end of another school year at the Puhi campus. Garden Island.

Molokai
The state Department of Health announced Monday that it has fined Molokai's Kane­mitsu Bakery $90,000 for selling baked goods and other food products under unsanitary conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Historic Preservation in danger of federal decertification, rail transit campaign gets nasty, Maalaea Small Boat Harbor expansion halted, Honolulu city ethics questioned, Ka'u gym advances, Molokai group fights interisland cable, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands for smartphone and web

Kawa bay historic hale (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Despite improvements in some areas, the state agency that protects Hawaii's historic and cultural sites still is plagued by major shortcomings and continues to face the possibility of decertification and loss of federal funding, according to a recent assessment by the federal government. Star-Advertiser.

Who's Giving Big Bucks to Our Senate Candidates? A snapshot of contributions to Linda Lingle, Mazie Hirono and Ed Case. Civil Beat.

Sen. Daniel Inouye took a quick trip to Alaska last week to help Alaska Sen. Mark Begich raise some money for his re-election campaign. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines is flying 13 percent more passenger miles than last year, after expanding capacity by the same amount. Hawaii News Now.

A new documentary explores the causes of obesity, and some of Hawai`i’s top experts will discuss both causes and challenges. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for May 7. Associated Press.

Oahu

A temporary black sewer pipe surfaced Saturday in the Ala Wai Canal, but the pipe is not leaking or posing a health risk, the city's Environmental Services Department said in a release. Star-Advertiser.

According to the Environmental Services Department, an air bubble lifted a section of the 5,000-foot long pipe, exposing 100 feet on the surface of the canal near the Hawaii Convention Center Saturday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

The archery range at Kapiolani Park will remain closed for at least another month until the city Parks Department can conduct a public hearing to determine whether it should be closed permanently. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal to stop nearly all commercial activity at Kailua Beach Park has Windward Oahu deeply divided. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu ethics officials say in the past three years, they've investigated more than 240 allegations of ethical misconduct by city employees. That's more than one complaint a week. Civil Beat.

The PR campaign being waged by rail supporters and opponents of Honolulu’s $5.17 billion project has gone into a kind of ‘If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all’ mode. Pacific Business News.

Idaho-based Mountain West Research group has been calling Oahu residents in recent weeks from a 213 area code, spreading nasty rumors about Honolulu mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano and Council Member Tom Berg. Both Cayetano and Berg oppose the city’s $5.3 billion elevated steel on steel rail project. Hawaii Reporter.

Deputy attorney general Kevin Takata announced his decision to run for Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney. Takata is a career prosecutor and has dedicated his life serving the public and prosecuting crimes. Hawaii Reporter.

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and the whole Disney gang pulled into port in Honolulu Sunday as part of the Disney Wonder's inaugural voyage to the Hawaiian Islands. KHON2.

The Royal Hawaiian Band will receive the 2012 Industry Award from the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

For several Big Island lawmakers, Hawaii’s $11.2 billion budget could be boiled down to one word: jobs. Tribune-Herald.

The Office of Planning’s Coastal Zone Management Program is conducting two listening sessions this month on the Big Island to accept comments on the Hawaii Ocean Resources Management Plan, currently being updated. West Hawaii Today.

The Ka‘u District Gym and Shelter recently moved a step closer to fruition with the release of a final environmental assessment finding the project will likely have no significant impact. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Federal and state agencies are ending a decadeslong project that would have expanded Maalaea Small Boat Harbor, citing costs as well as opposition from community groups that maintained that the proposals would fail to protect the harbor from surges while destroying acres of coral and affecting the "Freight Train" surf break. Maui News.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources has withdrawn plans to extend the breakwater in Ma’alaea Harbor, citing costs and community and enviromental  concerns as the reason for the termination. KITV4.

Hana High and Elementary School is one example of how Hawaii's per-pupil funding formula seems to hammer small schools. Civil Beat.

The county Liquor Control Adjudication Board disciplined four Maui businesses Thursday, two for serving alcohol to minors and two for having employees unlawfully drinking while on the job. Maui News.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has issued a final decision for a 2010 rate case involving Maui Electric Company. Maui Now.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono rallied Maui Democrats on Saturday in a sometimes impassioned speech that recalled her impoverished beginnings as a Japanese immigrant, unapologetically acclaimed liberal ideals and took some shots at former Republican Gov. Linda Lingle. Maui News.

Financial challenges facing Maui Land & Pineapple Co. are raising a "substantial doubt about the company's ability to continue as a going concern," the company reports in its latest filing with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i joined the rest of the nation in the National Day of Prayer Thursday, hosting two observances in the rotunda of the Mo‘ikeha Building. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary announced last week that it is seeking to fill eight primary and nine alternate seats on its advisory council. Garden Island.

Three Civil Air Patrol cadets were promoted to Airman First Class and eight cadets, including the three promoted cadets, earned their Certificates of First Flight Tuesday night during the Civil Air Patrol meeting at the T-Hangers where the CAP planes are hangered at the Lihu‘e Airport. Garden Island.

Molokai

Big Wind opponent I Aloha Molokai has unleashed a petition to stop the multi-billion interisland undersea cable from being built. Pacific Business News.

The senate floor discussion on SB2785 centered on opposition from Lanai and Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

No 'Hawaii Aloha' in Legislature's Sine Die, panel paves way for geothermal exploration without environmental assessments, governor rebuffs teacher contract offer, voters favor assisted suicide, undersea cable to pipe electricity to Oahu headed to governor, Health Department rejects claims of pollution in Hanalei Bay, Agri-tourism advances on Big Island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The state House and Senate gave final approval Thursday to an $11.2 billion budget and a $3.2 billion outlay for capital improvement projects, taking measured steps to restore money cut from programs during the recession while investing in construction intended to prod economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii lawmakers closed out the 2012 legislative session, some remarked that it was the first time in years they hadn’t had to contend with a budget deficit in excess of $1 billion. Associated Press.

State Budget Voted On Last Day of Legislative Session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bow tie sine die in the Hawaii House, courtesy photo

It wasn't all that long ago that the state Senate would join the state House of Representatives on the floor of the House to sing "Hawaii Aloha." Civil Beat.

If last year's theme was "righting the canoe," this year's theme is all about investing in the economy and the future. With Gov. Neil Abercrombie's symbolic canoe no longer in jeopardy of capsizing, he's eased up on his mantra that we all need to paddle. Civil Beat.

A proposal to connect Oahu and the neighbor island power grids with an undersea cable has cleared a legislative hurdle. Associated Press.

A bill to create the regulatory framework for transmitting electricity between Hawaii’s islands via an undersea cable won approval from the State Legislature on Thursday and now heads to Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who is expected to sign Senate Bill 2785 into law. Pacific Business News.

Despite a torrent of complaints from neighbor island and other environmentalists, the Hawaii Senate passed the controversial undersea cable bill. Civil Beat.

Legislation Establishes Regulatory Framework for Developing, Financing, and Constructing Underwater Electric Transmission Cable. Hawaii Reporter.

Legislators have voted to make fundamental changes to the state's judicial system. They passed a law that streamlines prison and parole requirements and could ultimately help reduce the number of Hawaii inmates in mainland corrections centers. Hawaii News Now.

On Thursday, a subcommittee of the state Environmental Council heard from potential geothermal developers about why the State Land Department should be allowed to waive certain environmental regulations. If approved by the full 15-member Environmental Council May 17, the exemptions would allow the State Land Department to drop costly environmental assessments from geothermal exploration projects. KITV4.

Bills to overhaul Hawaii's early-learning system and charter school network easily gained passage at the Legislature on Thursday, with state lawmakers saying the proposed education improvements are long overdue. Star-Advertiser.

The teachers union was moving forward Thursday with plans to hold a new vote on a proposed contract that teachers soundly rejected in January, despite the governor's contention that the proposal has "no legal standing." Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association's sudden decision Wednesday to put a rejected contract up for a re-vote by its members caught many off guard. Civil Beat.

Hawaii voters support the rights of doctors to help terminally ill patients end their lives by better than a 2-to-1 margin, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

Kealoha in 2007, courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is naming the slam poet known as Kealoha to be Hawaii's first poet laureate. Associated Press.

The Navy hospital ship Mercy, whose huge white hull is emblazoned with large red crosses, is on its way to Hawaii as it embarks on a 4 1⁄2-month humanitarian and civic assistance mission to Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Capitalizing on strong demand for service to Las Vegas, Hawaiian Airlines said it is adding two more weekly flights to its Honolulu-Las Vegas service. KITV4.

The statewide average price of gasoline dropped by about 4 cents from last week, the first significant price drop since December, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch issued Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann opened his Oahu campaign headquarters Thursday night. KHON2.

Sen. Daniel Inouye (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Oahu

The race for Honolulu mayor has drawn U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye into a verbal confrontation with former Gov. Ben Cayetano, who said the senator is "out of touch" on the issue of the city's planned $5.27 billion rail transit project. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Kuhio Park Terrace and Kuhio Homes tenants will receive rent rebate checks from a class-action settlement reached with the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. Star-Advertiser.

First Wind has filed a $15 million building permit for work on part of its 70-megawatt Kawailoa Wind Farm on Oahu’s North Shore. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu's director of environmental services estimates it will take seven years and at least $110 million to develop a new landfill on Oahu. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The island’s two planning commissions are making it easier for farms to lure and accommodate tourists. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission is giving a community center in Kalapana Seaview Estates another chance to obey the law. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Community College at Palamanui moved a step forward with the appropriation of state general obligation bonds that will help fund not one, but two phases of the long-awaited West Hawaii educational institution. West Hawaii Today.

Doctors say they come to Hawaii Island for the quality of life, but money concerns show up in the top two tiers of priorities, according to a recently published survey of island clinicians. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Sen. Malama Solomon

Big Island state Sen. Malama Solomon will hold a series of community forums this month to talk about this year’s legislative session. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County is taking ownership of one of the last undeveloped shoreline parcels of a once famous and vast network of wetlands and fishponds between the mouths of Waiehu and Iao Streams. Associated Press.

Some popular and environmentally sensitive areas of the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve could remain closed to the public for another year while the state continues work on a draft management plan for the South Maui reserve. Maui News.

So far, 32 nene from Kauai have made their home on Maui after state workers last year started to remove at least several hundred of the geese near Kauai's Lihue Airport to ensure that the birds don't become flying hazards for aircraft. Maui News.

Kauai
After a North Shore resident disclosed earlier this week that recent test results pointed to high levels of metal pollution in Hanalei River and Hanalei Bay, state officials quickly dismissed the findings, saying they are unfounded and have created unnecessary fear and concern in the community. Garden Island.

New contract vote set for Hawaii teachers union, Honolulu mayoral candidates hold first debate, space tourism bills, $11.2B state budget up for vote in Legislature, more geothermal coming to Big Island, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

Hawaii schoolchildren at play (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii teachers will vote again on the contract settlement offer they overwhelmingly rejected in January, union leaders announced Wednesday night. Civil Beat.

The teachers union announced Wednesday it will take another vote on a proposed contract overwhelmingly rejected in January, a decision a union leader said is "driven by the urgency to preserve" the state's $75 million Race to the Top grant. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii's public school teachers union will be holding a number of "informational meetings" statewide for HSTA members in May. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Legislature will vote on the $11.2 billion state budget Thursday, the final day of the legislative session. KHON2.

The state Office of Information Practices hopes a bill that would grant government agencies a new right to appeal open records decisions in court would give its orders more legal clout, yet open government advocates warn that it would delay public access to information. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are expected to pass two bills on Thursday that would bring the state closer to space tourism and even developing the moon. Hawaii News Now.

Voters across Hawaii support the construction of underwater cables between some of the islands to transmit electricity from wind, geothermal or solar, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

A strong majority of Hawaii voters want the government to preserve more land and develop less of it. Civil Beat.

Hawaii may once again look to its four-legged friends to help prevent the introduction of invasive species. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii's four county mayors reminded residents Wednesday to always be prepared for natural disasters because they can strike unexpectedly any time of the year. Star-Advertiser.

The film commissions of all four Hawai'i counties, the Hawai'i Film Office, and the Creative Industries Division of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism were recently honored with a collaborative award from the American Marketing Association. Hawaii Reporter.

Ten million dollars is headed to the islands to improve community health care. The grants are part of the federal Affordable Care Act and the money will be used to reach more patients. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii gained a little ground this year in Chief Executive magazine’s annual survey of the best and worst states in which to do business. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The three candidates vying for Honolulu mayor engaged in the first debate of the campaign season Wednesday night, touching on a variety of subjects but ultimately trying to score points against one another on the singularly contentious issue of rail transit. Star-Advertiser.

In their first time on a stage together as mayoral candidates, Kirk Caldwell, Peter Carlisle and Ben Cayetano quickly established their roles. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s three mayoral candidates met Wednesday evening in their first debate of the election season, with the city’s $5.3 billion rapid transit project most of their attention. Hawaii Reporter.

In their first Mayoral debate, Ben Cayetano, Peter Carlisle and Kirk Caldwell wasted no time getting to Oahu's most talked about issue - rail. KHON2.

FACT CHECK — Caldwell: Carlisle Raised Property Tax Rates. Civil Beat.

The governor's wife voiced her opposition, but the state Wednesday gave developers of a planned $380 million luxury condominium tower in Kakaako an exemption from a rule intended to preserve mauka-makai views. Star-Advertiser.

Leeward Coast residents hoping to rid themselves of Waimanalo Gulch Landfill will have to wait awhile. KITV4.

Sen. Daniel Akaka

The University of Hawaii will award honorary degrees to Sen. Daniel Akaka and Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami at commencement ceremonies next week. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa has confirmed a possible computer security threat that was found on campus. KITV4.

Hawaii

The state Public Utilities Commission has taken the first step toward approving a second geothermal plant on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Two groups opposed to floating fish farms are considering an appeal of a ruling by U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway that a federal agency was within its authority to grant an ocean aquaculture permit to a private research venture. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined three Big Island businesses. Tribune-Herald.

A push to make corporation counsel an elected position took another step forward Wednesday, as County Council members made several amendments to the proposal and scheduled a public hearing. West Hawaii Today.

Kona International Airport will get some much-needed TLC with $10.4 million slated by the state Legislature to re-roof the open-airport’s main terminal early next year. West Hawaii Today.

A popular performing arts center in Kalapana Seaview Estates is facing a possible shutdown today by the Windward Planning Commission. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County has purchased 64 acres of undeveloped property fronting Kaehu Bay, preserving the wetland and fishponds in a $996,000 deal brokered with the Trust for Public Land and other groups. Maui News.

The County of Maui completed the $996,000 purchase of 64 acres of undeveloped coastal wetlands at Ka‘ehu Bay in Paukukalo. Maui Now.

A community meeting to provide public input on the development of the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Maui High School. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines has added three new boarding gates to its Kahului Airport operations, with all flights using gates 11 to 21 in the center of the terminal. Maui News.

Kauai

State workers have removed 300 nene geese from the area around Kauai's airport in the last few months to reduce the risk they will get in the way of airplanes taking off and landing. Associated Press.

The North Shore Path, a project to connect North Shore communities through a path similar to Kapa‘a’s Ke Ala Hele Makalae path, is gaining momentum. Garden Island.

Molokai

An old guy from Molokai is flying to Oahu and helping to lead a charge for labeling. Molokai Dispatch.

Interisland cable bill revived, Board of Education tries to stem $16M bus shortfall, cybercrime bills pass, newspaper circulation rises, Medicaid changes in the works, open records challenges can now go to court, Hawaii County property values drop 3.6 percent, Maui gets federal money for clinic, Kauai birds flown to other islands, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Interisland cable, courtesy photo

The state Senate on Tuesday revived a bill that would create a regulatory framework for an interisland electric transmission cable, a priority for Gov. Neil Abercrombie's energy agenda. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii voters across the board oppose same-sex marriage, legalizing marijuana and rail. But those who vote regularly feel differently from those who don't, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

The State Senate passed more than one hundred bills on the chamber floor today leaving more than 60 fiscal-related bills left to vote on Thursday, the last day of the session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers have approved a trio of bills aimed at preventing cybercrimes. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers have heard the exasperation of local hospital administrators eager for a change in how they’re paid for providing health-care services to Medicaid patients. Pacific Business News.

The state House and Senate unanimously passed a bill Tuesday that would require business owners who lease land from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to propose making “substantial improvements” to their facilities before being granted a new lease. Tribune-Herald.

A complete overhaul of the state's charter school system is poised for passage Thursday at the state Legislature, along with $500,000 to help smooth the transition. Star-Advertiser.

An estimated 17 leadership and other positions at adult community schools will be eliminated when state funding for the campuses is halved next school year, but education officials pledged the range of adult education services offered by the state will remain the same. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Education and its governing board are laying out an array of bandages to dress the wounds they anticipate after making severe cuts to student transportation services. Civil Beat.

Over the next two weeks, the state Department of Education will search for ways to tackle a $16 million shortfall for student transportation without making big cuts to service. Star-Advertiser.

A Board of Education committee was briefed Tuesday about various options to address a $16 million shortfall for student bus service for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year. KITV4.

A day after news broke of one more Department of Education employee charged with stealing thousands of dollars from another public school, the DOE said it's cracking down to prevent employees from stealing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's open records agency is celebrating the fact that it has won government agencies a new right to appeal decisions compelling the release of public records. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers announced that House Bill 1875 HD2 SD2 CD1, which amends the mortgage foreclosure law to provide additional protections for Hawaii’s homeowners, passed its final floor vote Tuesday before the full House and Senate. Associated Press.

Transporting wild or feral deer between islands is a pen stroke away from being banned. Tribune-Herald.

State senators will present the Hawaii Foodbank a check for $9,400 on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The City Council is considering rules governing First Amendment activities at parks more than 10 years after protesters filed a lawsuit because there was no process to determine where and how they could demonstrate against the 2001 Asian Development Bank conference. Star-Advertiser.

A member of the Occupy Honolulu movement was arrested during a Lei Day celebration. The arrest then sparked a protest in front of the Honolulu Police Department's main station this afternoon. KHON2.

The commanding officer and senior enlisted sailor on the Pearl Harbor-based submarine USS Columbia were relieved of duties Tuesday for "shortfalls in professional performance" leading to a loss of confidence in their ability to serve in positions of command authority, the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

May Day was a major protest day for Occupy Wall Street activists throughout the country. Occupy Honolulu was not about to be left out. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s total average circulation for its weekday newspaper grew by 6 percent since last year, according to semiannual circulation data released in the Audit Bureau of Circulation on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Federal agents and police raided two homes and at least five businesses last night and today in an investigation of an alleged illegal lottery operation that caters to Honolulu’s Southeast Asian population. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu named one of the world’s best travel spots. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii County property values decreased by 3.6 percent over the past fiscal year, a figure so close to Mayor Billy Kenoi’s earlier estimate that he said Tuesday there will be little, if any, changes when he submits his final budget later this week. West Hawaii Today.

Construction could begin in the fall on an $18.5 million, 100-bed skilled-nursing facility in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A pilot program to truck garbage from Hilo and Puna transfer station sites has ended, a county Department of Environmental Management official said, and County Council members would like to keep it that way. Tribune-Herald.

A measure prohibiting trucking trash from Hilo and Puna to the West Hawaii landfill passed from council committee unanimously, with little fanfare and no public testimony. West Hawaii Today.

Opposition to re-appropriating $4 million to the Waimea Trails and Greenways project headlined a Hawaii County Council public hearing Tuesday evening that drew just five people commenting on the proposed fiscal year 2012-13 operating and capital budget. West Hawaii Today.

The state budget set to be be finalized Thursday contains $50.4 million in capital improvement projects for West Hawaii, two state representatives said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Kona coffee farmers are asking the governor to veto a bill that removes mandatory certification requirements for Hawaii-grown coffee. Associated Press.

Maui

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $10.1 million in grants to community health centers on Maui and the Big Island. Associated Press.

The Community Clinic of Maui is the recipient of a $4.5 million grant made possible through new legislation outlined in the Affordable Care Act. Maui Now.

Not very many people would be excited to be going on a garbage patch expedition. Maui News.

Drug court pioneer retires. Maui News.

Lahaina, Maui made a list of top 25 places in the nation released today by TripAdvisor. Maui Now.

Kauai

It has been a year since Governor Neil Abercrombie issued an emergency declaration to relocate a growing flock of endangered waterbirds from the Kauai airport. KITV4.

House Bill 2100 appropriates $5,000 for bee hive research each county in Hawai‘i, including Kaua‘i County, and an additional $10,000 for UH Hilo, College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management. Garden Island.

The Kapa‘a and Waimea swimming pools will be closed Thursday afternoon to allow staff to attend an island-wide meeting. Garden Island.

Federal judge lets Hawaii Family Forum intervene in gay marriage case, Legislature focuses on spending bills, near-miss over Oahu investigated, hostess bars limited on Maui, Hawaii County pay held stable, push polls concern Honolulu candidates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands for smartphone and web

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A federal judge ruled Monday that the Hawaii Family Forum can intervene against a legal attack on Hawaii's marriage laws. KITV4.

With Gov. Neil Abercrombie opposing the request and his state Health Director Loretta Fuddy supporting it, a federal judge granted a motion Monday by the Hawaii Family Forum to intervene in a court case and defend Hawaii laws banning same-sex marriages. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge says the Christian organization Hawaii Family Forum may participate in a legal case addressing the issue of gay marriage. Associated Press.

After a weekend of budget negotiations, House and Senate committee members agreed on Monday to focus spending on public health and safety, social services and education. Associated Press.

In their last act under an extended deadline, state lawmakers agreed Monday to provide $11.6 million for social service programs, restoring some of the money that had been cut during the recession. Star-Advertiser.

With the wrangling over the state budget complete, Hawaii is poised to infuse more than $3 billion worth of construction projects into the economy over the next year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers want to expand early learning opportunities statewide. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa

Civil rights activist Mitchell Kahle and his friend Kevin Hughes filed a Circuit Court lawsuit Friday against former Senate President Colleen Hanabusa over Kahle's ouster from the State Capitol after he objected to opening the Senate session with a prayer. Star-Advertiser.

An overhaul of the state’s 1-year-old foreclosure law is expected to pass the Legislature today. Star-Advertiser.

Senate lawmakers have shelved a controversial bill that would have banned health insurers from serving on the board of the state's new health insurance exchange. Star-Advertiser.

Seventeen million dollars. That's the hole the Hawaii Department of Education has to fill in its school bus budget. On Tuesday the Board of Education is expected to hear an official recommendation from the department on how to cover the shortfall. Civil Beat.

State roundup for May 1. Associated Press.

Oahu
A mistake by an air-traffic controller resulted in two jets being put on a collision course as they approached Honolulu International Airport in January. A Hawaii News Now investigation revealed the incident was never reported to higher ups at the Federal Aviation Administration, resulting in an FAA probe and the retirement of the longtime head of air traffic control in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Architecture and engineering students at the University of Hawaii at Manoa will have the chance to design and engineer homes at a state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands subdivision in Kapolei, under agreements signed Monday by UH President M.R.C. Greenwood and Hawaiian Homes Commission Chairman Alapaki Nahale-a. Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano

Both former Gov. Benjamin Cayetano, a candidate for Honolulu mayor, and Honolulu City Council Member Tom Berg who is up for re-election, are reporting push polls are targeting their campaigns. Hawaii Reporter.

A Honolulu City Council committee gave preliminary approval Monday to a bill that would make it easier for transit officials to tap up to $450 million via low-interest city loans, but not before several Council members demanded more details. Star-Advertiser.

It's actually more expensive to grow food locally than to import it from California, according to Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell. Civil Beat.

TJ Maxx is getting an early start for the opening of its new Hawaii store on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

A series of community meetings is scheduled for this week to discuss the rail project proposed for Honolulu. The meetings will be held in communities along the proposed route from Kapolei to Ala Moana Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tucked away in a secure location in Pearl City, microbiologists at the Department of Health's State Laboratory Facility monitor a wide variety of public health risks. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

There will be no raises, but no pay cuts, either, for top Hawaii County executives this year, following a unanimous vote Monday by the county Salary Commission. Salaries for County Council members will be dropping a little in December, however, under the plan. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo International Airport should be slightly less noisy in 2015, according to a state Department of Transportation report. The agency’s draft Noise Exposure Map is projecting a small drop drop in air carrier and general aviation flights that year, when compared to 2010. Tribune-Herald.

The anticipated opening date for the Ane Keohokalole Highway has been pushed back another month, from some time this month to mid-June. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa doesn't want his county to have more than a dozen hostess bars. Associated Press.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa

No additional hostess bars will be allowed in Maui County, as Mayor Alan Arakawa recently signed off on administrative rules to leave a hostess bar cap in place at 12 establishments. Maui News.

Retailers located near the intersection of Lahaina's Front and Prison streets are bracing for temporary road closures next month when Maui County begins work on sewage lines. Maui News.

The combination of smart people and serious money made the day-long conference focused on the future of plug-in electric vehicles a memorable event. Maui News.

Kauai
Federal Emergency Management Agency officials arrived on Kaua‘i Monday to help island agencies apply for as much as $1.65 million in federal aid available in the wake of the violent storms in March. Garden Island.

Justin Kollar

After running unopposed in her first election in 2008, Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho will have at least one opponent in the 2012 race. Carvalho will face Deputy County Attorney Justin Kollar. Garden Island.

A long awaited Hawaii Supreme Court ruling has affirmed Kuleana Rights, a Hawaiian law established 160 years ago that assures property owners with land located within a larger private property owned by someone else have the right to access their property. Hawaii Reporter.