Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Ige focused on Kakaako homeless woes, raises sought for UH administrators, Kenoi's role in hiring campaign manager questioned, new water treatment plant for Maui, lasers keep birds off Kauai light poles, West Hawaii to be short on water, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
University of Hawaii courtesy photo
The University of Hawaii president is seeking approval of pay raises totaling $1 million for nearly 200 of its nonunionized executives in positions the university says have not seen a salary increase in seven years. Star-Advertiser.

Editorial: The generations-old push to re-establish U.S. recognition of the sovereignty and government of the Native Hawaiian people reached a milestone last week when the Department of the Interior announced it will soon publish a draft rule that would allow Native Hawaiians to leverage that recognition. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A planned August sweep of the Kakaako homeless encampment is on hold as Gov. David Ige and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell pore over disheartening data that show the 293 people living in tents and tarps near the University of Hawaii’s medical school and Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center have few housing options. Star-Advertiser.

More than 40 percent of the people in a homeless encampment in Honolulu's Kakaako district are families, according to a new survey released by Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Monday. Associated Press.

Less than half of homeless individuals living in a camp in Kakaako are families, and the majority of them are Native Hawaiian or Polynesian, a new study has found. Pacific Business News.

The Governor’s Leadership Team on Homelessness met again today to go over the data collected by social service agencies on the homeless encampment at Kaka’ako. Hawaii Public Radio.

The city's homeless village at Sand Island is very quickly starting to take shape. KITV4.

Oregon-based Schnitzer Steel would save nearly $1.3 million each year if the Honolulu City Council approves a subsidy for scrap metal recycling that would cost the city more than $1.45 million in annual revenue. Bill 50, introduced by Chair Ernie Martin, would impose a 65 percent discount on the disposal fee that companies pay when they deliver solid waste to the landfill. The city created the subsidy in the 1990s, but it was discontinued two years ago. Civil Beat.

Citing safety concerns, state regulators want to shift where enthusiasts can ride their personal watercraft at Keehi Lagoon — but the proposal already faces resistance from many local canoe paddlers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii regulators have denied the applications for power purchase agreements between three large proposed solar energy farms, including Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc.'s 15-megawatt Ka La Nui project in Waianae in Leeward Oahu, and Hawaiian Electric Co., according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The state Public Utilities Commission said Monday it denied three utility-scale solar projects on Oahu due to concerns about cost-effectiveness and the location of the facilities. Star-Advertiser.

Residents who were invited to choose a color for the refurbished Magic Island pathway have selected reddish-brown. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Although the Hawaii County Board of Ethics last month cleared Mayor Billy Kenoi of wrongdoing in the hiring of his campaign manager to a top-paying government position, documents obtained by West Hawaii Today raise questions about his role.

If North Kona were built up to the full extent that current land uses allow, the developments would draw 28 million gallons of water a day from the Keauhou aquifer — slightly less than twice what is drawn now. West Hawaii Today.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) held a meeting at the West Hawaii Civic Center on Monday. Once again, agenda items were primarily related to the U.S National Park Service’s petition to designate the Keauhou Aquifer System Area as a Ground Water Management Area, which the County of Hawaii opposes. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County is considering ways to make the Waipio Valley Access Road safer and will discuss options at a meeting next week in Honokaa. Tribune-Herald.

After nearly eight years of talk-story groups, committee meetings, readjustments and revisions, county planners and a steering committee of residents are close to finalizing the draft of a document that will guide future planning decisions for the entire Ka‘u District. Tribune-Herald.

Exonerated of fraud charges for a second time, Hilo's welfare doctor is now seeking payments from the state and insurers that accused him of bilking Hawaii's Medicaid program.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui County has received approval from the state to begin construction of a water treatment plant that will nearly double the capacity of the existing facility. Associated Press.

Beginning next summer, Maui County hopes to begin work on a new $12 million to $15 million Iao water treatment plant that will nearly double the amount of water handled by the current plant, according to documents filed with the state. Maui News.

A bill that seeks a ban on smoking at county bus stops will be considered by the Housing, Human Services and Transportation Committee this week. Maui Now.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is moving forward with plans to build a 17-acre recreational park and community center in Kula. Maui News.

This Thursday, Aug. 20, Maui residents can talk story with U.S. Senator Brian Schatz at a Town Hall Meeting at Pomaikai Elementary School. MauiTime.

The batteries and transmitters that are a critical part of the Palikea Stream flood-warning system at Seven Sacred Pools were stolen last week, prompting Haleakala National Park to close the famous pools at Oheo. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is continuing to experiment with highly concentrated beams of light from low powered lasers attached to transmission poles and the use of bird diverters on power lines as part of its ongoing effort to protect endangered seabirds. Garden Island.

The start of a planned renaissance of the long-shuttered Coco Palms Resort will take a little bit more time than expected. Garden Island.

In observance of Statehood Day, County of Kauai offices will be closed on Friday, along with all refuse transfer stations, the Kekaha Landfill, and Kauai Resource Center. Garden Island.

Monday, August 17, 2015

Abercrombie prison plan failing, more teachers staying, Maui to put lobbyist list online, Big Island flood zone maps changing, homelessness isn't child neglect, liquor in Chinatown, Coco Palms gets extension, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Hawaii Department of Public Safety
Oahu Community Correctional, courtesy Hawaii Department of Public Safety
Measures aimed at overhauling Hawaii’s troubled criminal justice system by making it more efficient and shifting resources to efforts that promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism — under a program called the Justice Reinvestment Initiative, was projected to help reduce the state’s inmate population by more than 900 by the end of fiscal year 2015 — and eventually lead to a reduction of 1,010 inmates by fiscal year 2018. But, as of May 31, Hawaii’s inmate population stood at 5,998 — merely 62 fewer inmates than in June 2012. Civil Beat.

A growing number of beginning teachers in Hawaii public schools are staying on the job longer, past the critical five-year mark experts say most likely determines whether a teacher will stick with or part with the profession. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Board of Education will be broadcasting live audio of its Tuesday meeting, a new initiative aimed at increasing the accessibility and transparency of meetings. Civil Beat.

The Federal Communications Commission has interrupted the monthly subsidy payments it has provided to Hawaii telecommunications company Sandwich Isles Communications Inc. for more than a decade in the wake of federal criminal convictions of company founder Albert Hee, according to federal records. Star-Advertiser.

Tom Yamachika Commentary: A Classic Example of Procurement Run Amok. The Hawaii Department of Health doesn’t seem too worked up over a finding that it allowed an original bid of $76,400 to balloon into a $525,000 final bill. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Those overseeing Honolulu’s rail project worked on multiple occasions — and with various advocates — to sharpen their message for an eventual rail-tax extension well before it was publicly announced that the transit project faced a nearly $1 billion budget shortfall, documents show. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit (HART) trumpets a reduction in traffic congestion on Honolulu’s crowded streets and clogged freeways as the primary benefit to the multi-billion dollar rail project. But, while the project is still years away from completion, statistics on the contributing factors show that congestion will only get worse in the mean time. Hawaii Independent.

Noise levels would determine whether a bird owner in a residential zone should be penalized for creating a public nuisance under a new proposal being offered by City Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga. Star-Advertiser.

Some merchants in Chinatown want to increase business by serving alcohol in public places.   But a number of residents strongly opposed the measure and it appears the Honolulu City Council is on their side. Hawaii Public Radio.

Children growing up on the street is unfortunately becoming a common sight across our island.  An issue that has many wondering why these kids are allowed to live this way. Hawaii News Now.

While the homeless situation in Kakaako is getting much attention, there is a business off Nimitz Highway that’s faced the problem for years. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council is urging the Hawaii Community Development Authority to uphold its "glass rule" for projects in Kakaako with regard to San Diego-based developer OliverMcMillan's Symphony Honolulu mixed-use condominium tower, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

A ban on smoking at the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus is in effect starting Monday, according to school officials. Hawaii News Now.

Movie Theaters Inspecting Bags, Packages. The policy appears to have been prompted by recent attacks on the mainland over a two-week period in July and August. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii agency is moving ahead with its plan to go entirely off the electrical grid by developing its own microgrid system, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Big changes are coming to Hawaii County’s flood zone maps following a multi-year effort by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency to update the maps to better reflect flood risk. West Hawaii Today.

In an unusual confrontation between established island Democrats, two-term County Councilman Greggor Ilagan from Puna is running for the state Senate seat now held by Russell Ruderman, setting up a potentially fierce primary contest that would be a study in political contrasts. Star-Advertiser.

Demand for dental services at the new West Hawaii Community Health Center in Kealakehe has been so brisk in a single month that Kevin Nietzer, the facility’s dental director, said it’s time to look into hiring more staff. West Hawaii Today.

When it reopens sometime this fall as the “Market at Kalani,” customers will be able to find everything from locally grown produce to home and health products, with the retreat leveraging its buying power with vendors to make it an affordable and abundant shopping center. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
The public can soon expect to have a much easier time finding out who is a registered lobbyist in Maui County. The Board of Ethics voted unanimously last week to post the list on its website. It’s unclear when that will start. Civil Beat.

Another wide-load convoy carrying telescope equipment is expected to head to Haleakala next week, with protesters apparently planning some kind of "action" again after 20 people were arrested two weeks ago during another wide-load transport. Maui News.

The Maui County Liquor Control Commission has until Oct. 1 to define dancing at establishments that serve alcohol, providing hope for dance enthusiasts who have been fighting restrictions for nearly a decade. Maui News.

Maui County is seeking $160,000 from condo, vacation rental and timeshare owners to help fund a study into ways to keep their beachfront property from washing away. Star-Advertiser.

The leaky Old Wailuku Pool is showing its age and may require an expensive repair job, the county Department of Parks and Recreation director said Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Planning Commission has voted unanimously to approve a request from an investment group for a time extension to submit demolition permits to rebuild the shuttered Coco Palms Hotel on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental regulators will solicit public input in Hanalei this week about a new management plan for Haena State Park that calls for controlled entry, a 900-person daily visitor cap and beach access by way of an elevated boardwalk. Garden Island.

Kauai Community College’s newest satellite location stands among the taro fields below the green, waterfall-covered mountains of Hanalei. Garden Island.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard is the featured speaker at the next Kauai Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Garden Island.

Friday, August 14, 2015

Group sues over Native Hawaiian election, Tax Department revamp coming, ahi fishermen reach limit, state works on marijuana dispensary rules, charter school applicants denied, parking lot woes on Maui, Kauai transfer station investigated, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Native Hawaiian children at play © 2015 All Hawaii News
A lawsuit filed Thursday is challenging an election solely for Native Hawaiians, saying it's unconstitutional to restrict voting to those who have Native Hawaiian ancestry. Associated Press.

Four Native Hawaiians and two non-Hawaiians filed a lawsuit Thursday in U.S. District Court in Honolulu seeking to block a “race-based” and “viewpoint- based” election planned this fall as a step toward establishing a sovereign Hawaiian government. Star-Advertiser.

A hui of four Native Hawaiians and two non-Hawaiians on Thursday filed a lawsuit against the state of Hawaii to halt what plaintiffs argue is “a racially exclusive election and constitutional convention designed to establish a sovereign Hawaiian nation.” Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of the Interior has taken a major step toward federal recognition of Native Hawaiians. The agency has released the draft of a proposed rule regarding procedures to re-establish a government-to-government relationship with a native governing entity. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s newly approved medical marijuana dispensary program is expected to fuel a multi-million-dollar industry starting next year. But a lot remains to be decided about program rules and how the state Department of Health will choose companies to receive eight coveted licenses to grow and sell cannabis. Civil Beat.

The state Tax Department is getting ready to enter the 21st century. The five-phase Tax System Modernization project kicked off with an announcement Thursday promising a wide range of improvements, including faster refunds on tax returns, better customer service and fraud protection. Civil Beat.

With the current El Nino event on pace to be among the most powerful on record, Hawaii will see no letup in the busy hurricane season, followed by a drier-than-normal winter that will worsen the state’s drought. In addition, weather experts predict the islands will experience more episodes of big surf during the winter. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Charter School Commission voted Thursday to reject applications for three campuses proposed for Oahu and Kauai, citing serious concerns over incomplete academic and financial plans. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released the 2014 edition of the State of Hawaii Data Book on Thursday. Star-Advertiser

Stem Inc., a Hawaii Energy Excelerator energy storage and data analytics startup, has secured $45 million in funding, the California-based firm said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawai‘i longline fishermen have hit their annual limit for bigeye tuna in Pacific waters, in the Western and Central Pacific region on August 5 and more recently in the Eastern Pacific for larger vessels. That doesn’t mean there won’t be tuna at local stores and restaurants. But it does mean some changes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The Hawaii water commission is moving to exert greater pressure on state and federal authorities to negotiate a tougher agreement with the Navy to upgrade its aging Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility where 27,000 gallons of fuel leaked last year. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department needs new police cars, motorcycles, and video surveillance machines.  They've asked the Honolulu city council for $2.6 million from taxpayers but Hawaii News Now has found an HPD account that has six times that amount, just waiting to be used.

It's been nearly two months since a gas fire halted construction on Kapahulu Avenue. Repaving of the road has yet to restart, and that has some residents wondering what's up. KITV4.

A badly needed new parking lot at an Oahu elementary school has remained unused for nearly five months because of safety concerns, frustrating families tired of a parking crunch there. Hawaii News Now.

Administrators at Ewa Beach's Campbell High School will be using portable classrooms to alleviate overcrowding. Associated Press.

Macy’s is closing its department store in Downtown Kailua in Windward Oahu, one of the largest ground lease tenants acquired by Alexander & Baldwin Inc. nearly two years ago, both the retailer and the head of A&B's Kailua properties confirmed to Pacific Business News Thursday.

Hawaii

The state Attorney General’s Office remained mum Thursday on the status of a criminal investigation — or even if there’s an ongoing investigation at all — into Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of his county-issued purchasing card, as the County Council prepares next week to clarify rules governing the taxpayer-backed pCards. West Hawaii Today.

According to defendants seeking Ho’oponopono following their April 2 arrests on Mauna Kea, the opposing sides have yet to meet to initiate the Hawaiian cultural process of making right. Big Island Video News.

Former state Rep. David Tarnas announced Thursday he’ll seek the District 7 state House seat currently held by Rep. Cindy Evans, a fellow Democrat. West Hawaii Today.

A quarantine to prohibit the movement of ohia trees, the soil surrounding them and ohia products from the Big Island is is likely to be approved this month in an attempt to stop the spread of a fungus that has the potential to kill the native trees throughout the islands. Civil Beat.

The mysterious and graceful manta ray is a Hawaii celebrity, attracting thousands annually to experience its nightly underwater feeding dance. Honoring the manta ray, Sheraton Kona Resort &Spa at Keauhou Bay will present Malama Hahalua, Manta Ray Week, Sunday through Aug. 22. West Hawaii Today

Maui

County of Maui says fire access is a big problem with new Shops at Wailea paid parking gates. MauiTime.

Maui County is seeking $160,000 from condo, vacation rental and time-share owners to help fund a study into ways to keep their beachfront property from washing away. Associated Press.

Hospital and state administrators expect to select either Kaiser Permanente Hawaii or Hawaii Pacific Health as a partner for Maui County’s three public hospitals by the end of September. Associated Press.

Kauai

An investigation is being launched by the Department of Health to determine if the Kauai County Hanalei Transfer Station is properly managing its stormwater containment areas, officials from the DOH confirmed with The Garden Island Wednesday.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Weakened Tropical Storm Hilda misses Hawaii, movie-watching government employees hogging state bandwidth, gay father sues Department of Education, high marks in lobbyist disclosure, Maui condos face rising tides, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Tropical Storm Hilda 5 a.m. Thursday, courtesy Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Tropical Storm Hilda is weakening as it picks up speeds and moves westward on a track that takes its center just south of the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Tropical Storm Hilda was in no hurry — dawdling just southeast of the islands Wednesday, sluggishly making its way west, nearing Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The state is pulling the plug on employees who watch Netflix, Hulu and other online video services on their work computers. Officials are blocking certain video services on the state network after discovering that public workers are “monopolizing a significant portion of our state’s available Internet bandwidth” by using media streaming services during work hours, Todd Nacapuy, chief information officer at the Office of Information Management and Technology, wrote in an Aug. 11 internal memo intended to be distributed to more than 20,000 employees in the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. Star-Advertiser.

The Sunlight Foundation on Wednesday released an update to its state lobbying disclosure report card, which has evaluated each state on disclosure of lobbyist activity and compensation, expenditure transparency, expenditure reporting thresholds and document accessibility. Hawaii earns a B grade. Civil Beat.

Special Education is Backsliding in Hawaii, Teachers and Advocates Say. Despite increases in funding and numerous efforts at reform, students with disabilities are falling farther behind their mainstream peers. Some say the downturn started when federal court supervision of the state system ended. Civil Beat.

Unbearably hot classrooms prompted Corey Rosenlee, president of the Hawaii State Teachers Association, to suggest the "heat days" idea. Around the country, some districts such as Denver Public Schools canceled school during extremely hot days and adjusted their calendars to minimize heat in the classroom. Associated Press.

A Kalaheo High School science teacher has been measuring the hot temperatures in his un-airconditioned classroom since public school started last month and found it was108 degrees there Monday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

Auto sales revved up 7.7 percent in the second quarter in the isles and are projected to finish the year 4.3 percent ahead of all of 2014. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is unlikely to create a state tax credit for consumers who buy electric vehicles, the head of the state’s Energy Office confirmed to Pacific Business News this week.

Hawaii’s largest law enforcement agencies will soon be carrying all new firearms, but one got a much better bargain than the other. KITV4.

Neal Milner commentary: ‘Shady Characters’ Tell a Spicy History of Hawaii. Veteran reporter Jim Dooley’s new book recounts his coverage of the state’s darker side — political scandals, crime and corruption. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. and Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. are locked in a dispute with Hawaii Gas over what the state's only regulated gas utility says is the two companies' inability to produce documents or sufficiently answer questions related to the Florida-based energy giant's $4.3 billion acquisition of the state's largest utility. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii-based Blackhawk Security is watching you, medical marijuana dispensary hopefuls — for your own good, he hopes. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The man who admits using Australian professional golfer Robert Allenby’s identification and credit cards still isn’t saying how he got them. Circuit Judge Glenn Kim on Wednesday handed down the five-year prison sentence spelled out in Harbison’s plea agreement. Star-Advertiser.

Angus Mitchell, son of the late hair styling tycoon Paul Mitchell, is known for his support of conservation efforts in Hawaii. But the part-time Diamond Head resident finds himself in the cross hairs of his neighbors and the state Land Board over the alleged misuse of public lands. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii historically has the highest electricity and gas prices in the nation. But steep drops in both of those categories left Honolulu’s inflation barely discernible during the first half of 2015 and on track to finish at its lowest level since 2009. Star-Advertiser.

Paramedics, police and sheriff’s deputies are spending a lot more time answering emergency calls at the Kakaako homeless encampment, handling everything from psychiatric cases to assaults. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A gay father of two filed a lawsuit last week claiming East Hawaii public schools failed to protect his boys from bullies who targeted them because of their dad’s sexual orientation. Tribune-Herald.

On Friday, August 14, the Board of Land and Natural Resources will be meeting at its board room to discuss the lawsuit Ching v. Case, regarding the pollution and environmental damage at the Pohakuloa Training Area  on the Big Island. The lawsuit alleges that the Department of Land and Natural Resources breached its public trust duties by failing to ensure that the military complies with the terms of its lease with the state. Hawaii Independent.

Changes are coming to the Ulu Wini Housing Project, and many residents are worried about rising rents and cuts in services. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Beaches fronting nine condominiums in Kahana are quickly eroding and could be gone in a couple of decades with waves already crashing into first-floor units and swimming pools. Maui News.

Hospital and state administrators intend to select either Kaiser Permanente Hawaii or Hawaii Pacific Health as a partner for Maui's three public hospitals by the end of next month, officials said Tuesday. Maui News.

In a study of 300 nene birds, starvation was the leading cause of death, followed by trauma from vehicle strikes and predators, along with diseases, according to U.S. Geological Survey officials who published their findings last month. Maui News.

The 128 single-family home sales in Maui County in July was the highest monthly total since the 131 sales in March of 2007 in the days before the Great Recession, Realtors Association of Maui data show. Maui News.

Kauai

One week after the Kauai County Council voted 4 to 3 to repeal the island’s barking dog ordinance, Council Chair Mel Rapozo made good on his promise to start a discussion about possibly replacing it with a comprehensive noise ordinance. Garden Island.

Judge Kathleen Watanabe
was retained as judge for 5th Circuit Court. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Monk seal population to grow, NextEra promises $1B in benefits from Hawaiian Electric purchase, Honolulu media target homeless woes, rail contract nears, inspections lacking at home care sites, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaiian monk seal at rest © 2015 All Hawaii News
Federal fisheries authorities want to more than double the small population of endangered Hawaiian monk seals in the state’s main islands. Authorities on Tuesday released a draft management plan for the endangered species, of which approximately 200 live in the main Hawaiian Islands. Associated Press.

Federal regulators want to more than double the small population of endangered Hawaiian monk seals in the state’s main islands. Garden Island.

NextEra Energy Inc., the company looking to buy Hawaiian Electric Industries, said Tuesday the deal will result in $1 billion in customer savings and economic benefits over five years. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s consumer watchdog agency gave a thumbs-down Monday to the proposed $4.3 billion merger of Hawaii Electric Companies and Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. Tribune-Herald.

The state of Hawaii is expected to sign a major agreement with Korea’s leading energy technology institute later this month to collaboratively work on test projects in the state, including a packaged battery system for residential homes, the head of Hawaii’s energy office told Pacific Business News Tuesday.

Unlike in many other states, Hawaii does not mandate unannounced inspections as part of its annual certification process for community care foster family homes. Officials have the authority to make unannounced visits, but say limited resources often prevent them. Civil Beat.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has appointed Lisa Victor to serve as the new chief operating officer for its 170-person state agency. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Safety concerns are so bad in and around the Kakaako homeless encampment that the state Department of Public Safety, which oversees state sheriff’s deputies, has hired a private security company to guard its nearby offices. Star-Advertiser.

As of this week, there’s a new sense of order on the ground floor of the Kakaako building that houses scores of state workers from the departments of health and public safety. KITV4.

More than half of O’ahu’s single unsheltered homeless live in the urban core according to January’s point-in-time count.   There are also an unspecified number who are not counted by social service providers and are the undocumented homeless. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Honolulu Police Department has rolled out a new fleet of vehicles aimed at catching drivers who break the law. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration has emailed a questionnaire to 530 Oahu residents to ask them to help the city decide on a color for the Magic Island pathway. The choice is between bright blue favored by the mayor and the brownish-red color traditionally seen on running tracks and tennis courts. Civil Beat.

Opposition, dismay and resignation. That was largely the sentiment of North Shore residents responding to the first public presentation of a plan to carve up the historic 2,700-acre Dillingham Ranch into a subdivision for 106 homes tenuously connected with fruit orchard, horse and cattle uses. Star-Advertiser.

In an effort to fuel job creation and address traffic congestion, James Campbell Co. officials are embarking on a $50 million project to widen and reconstruct Kalaeloa Boulevard in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday marked the deadline for groups interested in building the next stretch of rail guideway and stations to put their names in the running. But project officials say they can’t yet disclose who — or  how many parties — responded. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County officials will dedicate a new playground Monday at the Mauna Kea Recreation Area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A new Maui County ordinance allows the placement of signs, posters and nontransparent materials on vehicle side windows and rear windows that don’t obstruct the driver’s view of the road, West Maui Councilmember Elle Cochran announced today. Maui Now.

Maui County Liquor Commission discusses new dancing law on Wednesday, Aug. 12. MauiTime.

The Maui Visitors Bureau hopes to attract more "never been" travelers from the East Coast and other regions of the Mainland this year. Maui News.

Construction is underway on the long-anticipated Bath & Body Works store at the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center. Maui News.

Kauai

Roy Oyama is a humble man. Oyama, who will be recognized for his achievements in agriculture and the Kauai County Farm Bureau, was inducted as a Kauai Museum Living Treasure in 2005. Garden Island.

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Hawaii Island under tropical storm watch, University of Hawaii to ban teacher-student romance, consumer advocate opposes Hawaiian Electric/NextEra deal, homeless czar named, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Hilda storm track, Central Pacific Hurricane Center
A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for the Big Island of Hawaii as Hurricane Hilda continues on a path toward the state. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Consumer Advocate Jeffrey Ono believes that the proposed $4.3 billion NextEra Energy, Inc. merger with Hawaiian Electric Industries is not in the public interest. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Division of Consumer Advocacy on Monday filed testimony recommending state regulators reject NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Electric Co., saying the Florida-based energy giant has failed to prove that the sale will result in significant benefits to consumers. Pacific Business News.

The Division of Consumer Advocacy of the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs filed Monday its Direct Testimony recommending that the Public Utilities Commission  reject the $4.3 billion NextEra Energy, Inc. – HECO Companies merger as proposed. KHON2.

A panel of University of Hawaii faculty and staff from UH campuses around the state are putting the finishing touches on a proposed policy to make it clear that romantic and sexual relations between faculty members and their students are prohibited. Current UH policy warns against faculty-student romantic relationships but it does not ban them. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The size and makeup of the Kakaako homeless encampment continues to fluctuate as state, city and federal officials work to figure how — and when — to start clearing out the first groups of people, Gov. David Ige said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige announced his selection of Scott Morishige to be his next coordinator on homelessness Monday, while a legislative leader raised the possibility of emergency state funding to address the problem. Civil Beat.

The city has widespread support among Oahu residents to ban people from lying or sleeping on city sidewalks, but not so much when it comes to sweeping the homeless and taking their possessions. Star-Advertiser.

State transportation and public safety officials planned an early Monday morning crackdown on illegal campers who settled under and around the airport viaduct. But the Governor's Office pulled the plug on the enforcement action-- initially with no explanation. KITV4.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit experienced another fiscal shortfall, recently, when General Excise Tax surcharge revenues in the latest quarter fell $8 million short of projections. That brings rail’s total tax deficit to $39 million. Hawaii Independent.

The Honolulu Museum of Art is suing a San Francisco art collector it is paying $80,000 per year for the rest of his life — $890,000 so far — for five pieces of Southeast Asian art. Star-Advertiser.

Hooters, one of the original four tenants that remained at Aloha Tower Marketplace throughout Hawaii Pacific University's nearly $50 million renovation, has filed a lawsuit against the Honolulu-based educational institution, alleging breach of contract and claiming that the construction hurt the restaurant's business significantly. Pacific Business News.

On Monday, Dillingham Ranch representatives held a meeting to tell the community about its plans to build nearly 100 homes on the ranch, then put them up for sale. KITV4.

O’ahu real estate prices continue to climb, achieving sales volume equal to peak levels experienced a decade ago. Hawaii Public Radio.

Living Hawaii: Why Are Honolulu Rents Getting More Expensive? Housing costs — the greatest expense in most people’s lives — are poised to continue their rise in the coming years. What’s true on the mainland may be even more true in the islands. Civil Beat.

Hawaii
Electric vehicle owners will have another place to plug in by the end of the year. And they can pay their taxes while they’re at it. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is mulling two possible routes for the first phase of the Nani Kailua road extension, a makai-mauka connector road between Alii Drive and Hualalai Road. West Hawaii Today.

The search for a new dean at the University of Hawaii at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy has begun, but it could take until the end of the 2015-16 academic year, which has yet to begin. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui Ocean Center plans to release six juvenile green sea turtles into the open sea later this month to continue their life in the wild. Maui Now.

The Outlets of Maui is planning to expand, proposing to construct five one-story buildings in a portion of its parking lot at the West Maui mall site along Front Street. Maui News.

Kauai

A riverbank stabilization project is underway with the goal of returning the Hanalei River  back to its original form by restoring the 100-foot section of eroded stream bank located on state land above the Hanalei Wildlife Refuge. Garden Island.

Monday, August 10, 2015

Native Hawaiian march draws thousands to Waikiki, Monsanto lobbyist hired to head Maui agency, medical marijuana dispensary businesses vie for limited licenses, feds take Health Department to task on grants, Oahu residents cite homeless growth, Maui hospitals attract suitors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo courtesy Walter Ritte
Hawaiian march in Waikiki, courtesy Walter Ritte
Thousands of demonstrators, many carrying Hawaiian flags, marched through Waikiki on Sunday in an appeal to government to protect Hawaii’s natural resources for future generations. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of Hawaiians mobilized in Waikiki on Sunday for the “Aloha Aina Unity March” — a massive show of strength that organizers hope to translate into ongoing political actions. Civil Beat.

Thousands of Aloha Aina advocates marched down Waikiki on Sunday striving to send a message to visiting astronomers and tourists. Hawaii News Now.

Medical marijuana dispensaries won’t be operating for another year, and the state Department of Health isn’t even accepting applications for licenses to grow and sell marijuana until January. But potential licensees are already acquiring land, entering partnerships and raising money to boost their chances of obtaining one of the eight licenses that will be available. Civil Beat.


Hawaii is at risk of losing federal water infrastructure improvement funds if the state doesn't start lending the money to counties more efficiently. Associated Press.

Year after year, the Hawaii Department of Health has failed to spend tens of millions of federal dollars earmarked for shoring up Hawaii’s drinking water infrastructure, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Star-Advertiser.


On the fifth floor of the Hawaii State Capitol Friday, state and federal officials inked a 2015 Hawaii Catastrophic Hurricane Plan as the islands face another potential tropical storm. Civil Beat.


Oahu

Oahu residents overwhelmingly believe the island’s homeless problem has gotten worse over the past year and is hurting both the overall economy and their own quality of life, according to a new Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.


Residents say they like the idea of homeless shelters in places such as Sand Island, and even say they’re willing to have a temporary shelter in their own neighborhood, if it helps ease the overall problem, according to a new Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.


Both Governor David Ige and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell sat down with Hawaii News Now and the Star-Advertiser to discuss the results of the poll on homelessness in Hawaii.

The National Park Service on Friday said it was naming the superintendent of national parks in the Seattle area to oversee the USS Arizona Memorial, which has been rocked by alleged ticket sales even though people aren’t ever supposed to pay to visit the solemn site honoring World War II dead. Associated Press.

Two hospitals serving some of Oahu's most vulnerable patients are in financial crisis. Leahi and Maluhia hospitals have frozen admissions and are cutting staff. They're also reducing the number of available beds by 25-percent, a decision that will have a broader impact for medical care around the island. Hawaii Public Radio.

The cautionary context for Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s imminent plan to convert Oahu’s 50,000, 2,300-kelvin, high-pressure sodium (HPS) streetlights to brighter, bluer, 4,000K LED lamps — despite public pleas that he consider a cost-neutral and less harsh, 2,700-to-3,000K alternative — certainly calls for some review. Civil Beat.


It's no secret that The University of Hawaii Athletics Department has been losing money for years. Now, the question is will its new athletic director be able to change that fact? KITV4.


Hawaii

A dispute over who should build a senior living center in Kailua-Kona has one party warning there could be a glut of such units for seniors, or the area could end up having no new units at all. West Hawaii Today.

A report of shifting crime levels and complaints about officers on Mauna Kea were talked about Friday during the Hawaii County Police Commission meeting in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

One year after Tropical Storm Iselle made landfall on Hawaii Island, its lasting impact may be one of better preparedness in the event of future storms. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Two major Hawaii health care organizations are preparing their proposals to manage the state's public hospitals on Maui. Pacific Business News.


The head of the Maui region of Hawaii Health Systems Corp. told PBN Friday it was disappointed that the United Public Workers union filed a complaint for an injunction to block its path towards privatization. Pacific Business News.


Carol Reimann, who had been community and government affairs manager for Monsanto Hawaii, has been named director of the Department of Housing and Human Concerns, Mayor Alan Arakawa announced Friday. Maui News.

In a move that’s sure to keep the county’s anti-Monsanto/GMO activists buzzing for months (but perfectly illustrates the very tight bonds that connect local government with big business), Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa has appointed Carol Reimann to be the new Housing and Human Concerns Director. MauiTime.

Despite criticism from activists against genetically modified organisms, Carol Reimann does not expect her experience working for Monsanto Hawaii will affect any decisions she makes in her new job as director of the county Department of Housing & Human Concerns. Maui News.

Preserving the historic character of bridges along Hana Highway, some of which are more than a century old, is a top concern as the state finalizes a comprehensive plan to maintain those landmarks. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. is moving into large scale - "first of their kind on Maui" solar ventures with plans to purchase a total of 5.7 megawatts of photovoltaic power from projects in Lahaina and Kihei. Maui News.

County crews continue to respond to waterline breaks in South Maui and Haʻikū. Maui Now.

Kauai

Swim at your own risk. No plans for lifeguard towers at Kalapaki Beach. Garden Island.

The Kauai Creative Technology Center, a project of the Kauai Economic Development Board, will provide a multipurpose creative technology facility for workforce training, a hub for film and music industry professionals, as well as an audio and video resource center for members of the community. Garden Island.

Friday, August 7, 2015

Union sues to block privatization of Maui hospitals, Kohala group fights marijuana farms, DLNR chair defends wildlife fences, Laniakea beach barriers staying up, no more open space for Kauai, UH tries to fix cancer center budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Feral sheep and goats on Mauna Loa © 2015 All Hawaii News
Department of Land and Natural Resources chair Suzanne Case affirmed the state’s philosophy on fencing and ungulate removal during her keynote address at the 23rd Annual Hawaii Conservation Conference in Hilo, but she also left the door open for hunters to participate in adaptive management of resources. Big Island Video News.

About three dozen people congregated in the courtyard of the state Capitol on Thursday evening to mark the 50th anniversary of the federal Voting Rights Act, legislation passed at the apex of the civil rights movement that prohibits racial discrimination in voting. Star-Advertiser.

More than $40 million was released by the state to renovate and improve public facilities, buildings, and educational institutions across the state, Gov. David Ige announced Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The barriers that have blocked vehicles from parking at Laniakea for the past year and a half won’t be coming down Friday, the deadline originally slated under a state court order. Star-Advertiser.

State officials won’t be removing the barriers along Kamehameha Highway on Friday as courts originally ordered. Judge Karen Nakasone granted an extension Thursday for the Hawaii Department of Transportation so it can continue studying alternatives that are safe and feasible. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa will pay a San Francisco-based consultant up to $250,800 to develop a business plan for the financially struggling UH Cancer Center. Star-Advertiser.

Government lawyers will be asking a federal judge Monday to approve a $9 million settlement over an alleged botched childbirth at Tripler Army Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

Less than a week before construction on Radford High School's track came to a halt last year, workers made some unusual finds: a six-inch wide mortar fuse and an 18-inch copper sphere that one Department of Education contractor suspected was a naval mine. Hawaii News Now.

The City of Honolulu hosted a Veterans Stand Down today as part of a goal to end veteran homelessness by the end of this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii
A group of property owners who want Kohala to be the island’s bread basket, not its medicine cabinet, have started a petition drive to keep medical marijuana farms out of their neighborhood. West Hawaii Today.

The federal Food and Drug Administration has ordered a recall for Big Island-grown macadamia nuts that tested positive for salmonella. All mac nuts and mac nut products from Mahina Mele Farm labeled with Lot No. 016 are included in the recall, which was announced by the FDA on Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

A year after Iselle slammed into lower Puna on Hawai'i Island, signs of the storm's impact are still prevalent in communities across the district. Hawaii News Now.

Maui
One of Hawaii’s largest labor unions has gone to court in an effort to prevent the state from privatizing its public hospitals. United Public Workers, which represents state employees working for health facilities among others, filed a complaint in federal court seeking an injunction to stop the state from implementing House Bill 1075, the union announced Thursday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s United Public Workers union filed an injunction on Thursday in U.S. District Court in Honolulu in attempt to stop the privatization of the Maui state hospitals. Pacific Business News.

The United Public Workers union representing Hawaii health care workers is suing to block the privatization of the state’s hospitals. West Hawaii Today.

The group Stop Cane Burning has asked a Maui environmental court to order an injunction to halt sugar cane burning, pending the outcome of its lawsuit - which, if granted, would shut down Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co., the state's last surviving sugar plantation, the company said. Maui News.

Overcrowded conditions at Maui Community Correctional Center have escalated to the point where four inmates live in a cell designed for two, with one inmate sleeping inches away from a toilet. Maui News.

In a multi-year effort that began in 2006, a community project created through a partnership between Maui county officials and residents will soon come to fruition. Maui Now.

Kauai

Councilman Gary Hooser came up empty Wednesday in his attempt to increase the amount of money that is set aside for the Open Space fund. Garden Island.

For more than 30 years, plans to create a community agriculture park on 75 acres of undeveloped land bordering Kahili Quarry Road have stalled. Garden Island.

$40M slated for capital projects. Kilauea school, Mailihuna Road and Kapaa Stream Bridge among improvements for Kauai’s roughly $1.4M share. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 6, 2015

Honolulu to require baby-changing stations, sit-lie ban expanded, Kauai muzzles dog-barking law, power producers fight clean air laws, road to be cleared of lava, Maui cane-burner foes raise $25k, cesspool rules advance, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Fish amid coral © 2015 All Hawaii News
Researchers with the University of Hawaii at Manoa are being honored for their work to understand and reverse coral bleaching. The team headed by Ruth Gates and Madeleine van Oppen from the Australian Institute of Marine Science attempts to grow coral that’s resistant to the effects of global warming and rising levels of acid in the water. Hawaii Public Radio.

New research suggests small-scale fisheries could have big benefits for local communities. That’s according to a new study that highlights the economic impact of community supported reef fisheries. Hawaii Public Radio.

The process to determine Hawaii’s first medical marijuana dispensary license holders will likely be based on a point scale, state officials said Wednesday. But just how transparent the application process will be has yet to be determined. Pacific Business News.

Recently released campaign finance data shows more than $1.8 million has flowed into local candidates’ campaign coffers since the 2014 elections. Civil Beat.

One of Hawaii island’s largest power suppliers and one of the state’s two oil refineries say they can’t meet legal requirements for reducing air pollution as the state moves forward on an eight-year-old law that requires Hawaii to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Star-Advertiser.

The sale of Chevron Corp.’s Hawaii retail and refinery operations is getting interest from firms from as far as the Philippines and South Korea, Pacific Business News has learned.

Oahu

Diaper-changing stations would have to be provided for men and women in new or significantly renovated commercial and business spaces under a bill approved unanimously by the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Despite vocal and sometimes harsh criticism from opponents, the City Council voted twice on Wednesday to expand the controversial sit-lie law, which bars people from sitting or lying down on restricted sidewalks and other areas. KITV4.

The Honolulu City Council passed two measures Wednesday that would further curb where the homeless and other people can sit, lie or camp. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council voted Wednesday to advance a draft development plan for the North Shore that doesn’t include any new homes in Malaekahana. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council has passed a measure to make grants and loans available to businesses hit hard by rail construction, but it’s still unclear where the city would get the funds for such a program or at what amount. Star-Advertiser.

Some of the workers on the front lines of Hawaii’s tourism industry work in fancy hotels but are employed by contractors. They’re still supposed to receive union wages under a collective bargaining agreement, but that doesn’t necessarily happen despite legal action and union grievances. Civil Beat.

Local students interacted with leading scientists around the world Wednesday at the International Astronomical Union’s exhibit hall at the Hawaii Convention Center. KHON2.

TMT Protesters Hope to Reach Visiting Astronomers Through Waikiki March The event is planned during a day of rest for the more than 2,000 astronomers in town for the International Astronomical Union’s triennial convention. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Hawaii County taxpayers are footing the bill for Environmental Management Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd to defend herself from a lawsuit claiming she’s not qualified for the job, and the case isn’t over yet. The County Council on Wednesday voted to pay $47,231 for legal fees and court costs, on top of the $13,860 that had already been paid. West Hawaii Today.

Two-term Puna Councilman Greggor Ilagan announced Wednesday he’s running as a Democrat for the District 2 state Senate seat. West Hawaii Today.

Puna councilmember Greggor Ilagan is going to run for the state senate district 2 seat in 2016. The state senate seat is currently occupied by Russell Ruderman, who has yet to finalize his future political plans. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Council members Tuesday took plenty of testimony but no action on a bill banning the use of “toxic herbicides” by county workers, during a meeting of the Committee on Environmental Management. Tribune-Herald.

Tourists and isle residents might have only a few more months to snap pictures of a lava-covered Cemetery Road. Hawaii County put restoration of the narrow country road in Pahoa out to bid, with work expected to begin in late September or early October. Tribune-Herald.

More than four decades after the first promise was made, the Alii Kai subdivision will have its park. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County is slapping a half-million dollar fine on the owner of a popular boutique hotel for several dozen alleged permit violations. Associated Press.

A group of Maui residents called Stop Cane Burning has raised more than $25,000 for legal costs in an attempt to stop Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. from burning sugar cane. Civil Beat.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council on Wednesday voted to repeal the county’s barking dog ordinance, which provides penalties for dog owners who fail to keep their animals quiet. Garden Island.

Kauai County Council Chair Mel Rapozo’s plan to require an audit of the Kauai Humane Society was unanimously approved on Wednesday. Garden Island.

State health officials are drafting rules for a ban on cesspools as well as a tax credit incentive program that would help a small percentage of property owners upgrade to a more environmentally friendly waste system. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

First subsistence fishing rules signed for Kauai, Tropical Storm Guillermo update, teacher shortage plagues Hawaii, advocates seek homes for Honolulu homeless, Maui wind farm planned, Big Island council hears from Roundup foes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaiian fisherman © 2015 All Hawaii News
Gov. David Ige has signed a law establishing a community-based subsistence fishing area in Haena, Kauai, the first of its kind. The law will give the Haena community the opportunity to protect local fish populations using traditional fishing practices. Star-Advertiser.

Amid mounting public pressure, Gov. David Ige has signed rules to create Hawaii’s first Community-Based Subsistence Fishing Area for Haena on the north shore of Kauai. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige’s office announced Tuesday that the governor signed into law a historic rules package creating the state’s first Community-Based Subsistence Fishing Area in Haena. Garden Island.

Wednesday 5 a.m. update: The center of Tropical Storm Guillermo is expected to pass about 160 miles north-northeast of the Big Island late tonight...and 90 miles North-northeast of Maui on Thursday. Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

The military’s “Hurricane Hunters” spent Monday night and Tuesday morning doing what most people back on the ground would care to avoid: flinging themselves through the eye of a tropical cyclone. Star-Advertiser.

At 28,000 feet over Tropical Storm Guillermo a bang is heard within the Hurricane Hunters WC-130J. On most flights, such a sound might spur concern for the average passenger, but on this flight of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron the sound signals the beginning of data collection that will assist Central Pacific Hurricane Center forecasters in narrowing the cone of uncertainty as Guillermo approaches the Hawaiian Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Notices are arriving in the mailboxes of more than 95,000 Native Hawaiians this week as the first step in the election of delegates to a constitutional convention that will consider options for Hawaiian self-determination. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Schools Begin the Year Short on Teachers — Again. Finding enough instructors is an annual struggle in the islands, and it’s most difficult in remote and low-income areas. Civil Beat.

The fates of three proposed public charter schools remain in limbo after a State Public Charter School Commission committee voted Tuesday to support a recommendation to deny one school’s application but could not agree on whether to advance two others. Star-Advertiser.

Having been denied participation at the International Astronomical Union conference, foes of telescope construction atop Mauna Kea on Tuesday hand-delivered an invitation to their own event. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has set formal evidentiary hearings and public listening sessions on NextEra Energy Inc.’s $4.3 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Electric Co. Pacific Business News.

Ian Lind Commentary: Ex-Legislator May Make a Good Ethics Commissioner. Rey Graulty brings specialized knowledge to his new post, and he’s ready to dig into questionable gift-giving. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Advocates for the homeless rallied in front of Honolulu Hale on Tuesday to urge government officials to do more to get people into housing, scrap homeless camp sweeps and halt expansion of the city’s “sit-lie” ban. Star-Advertiser.

Proponents for more affordable housing launched their campaign at City Hall today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

County Council members on Tuesday sharpened their debate about county purchasing cards, promising to tighten the law after hearing a presentation from the legislative auditor. West Hawaii Today.

On Tuesday, Puna State Senator Russell Ruderman testified before the Hawaii County Council Committee on Environmental Management in favor of a bill (Bill 71) that would ban certain pesticides from being sprayed on government grounds. Big Island Video News.

One more time extension will get a long-stalled Hualalai Road condo project off the ground. That’s according to Kukui Development LCC, the California-based company that bought the troubled Hale Nanea Condominiums in 2013 after previous developers failed over a dozen years to bring the 92-unit project to fruition. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation will be holding a public informational meeting for the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project to update the community on planned construction and anticipated traffic impacts. West Hawaii Today.

Tropical Storm Guillermo is expected to bring rain and perhaps some thunder today as it brushes the Big Island, though residents largely will be spared the worst as the former hurricane shifts farther to the north, forecasters say. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Hawaiian Homes Commission is expected to make a decision in November whether to issue a lease to a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc., which is buying Hawaiian Electric Co. for $4.3 billion, for the development of a 60-megawatt wind farm on the southern coast of Maui. Pacific Business News.

A portion of the Iao Stream flow will be disrupted during mid to late August due to work on the Waihee Ditch siphon where it crosses Iao Stream. Maui News.

The Airport Access Road is now open to motorists beginning today from Pakaula Street to the Hāna Highway in Kahului. Maui Now.

Unresolved legal challenges to construction of the Daniel K. Inouye Telescope atop Haleakala were cited Sunday by a protesters' group as fueling the outrage that led to 20 arrests late Thursday and early Friday at the Central Maui Baseyard. Maui News.

With a goal to stop goats and deer from destroying what's left of the unique ecosystem of the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Reserve Area, a state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife crew - field assistant T.J. Shimabukuro (from left in photo on left), acting reserve manager Casey Stewman and Kupu AmeriCorps intern Amy Markel - adds to a fence Wednesday that is being installed to enclose the makai section of the preserve.  Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Search and Rescue recently welcomed three newly certified K9 members following weeklong field testing conducted by Robert Noziska, a certified instructor and trainer with the United States Border Patrol Services. Garden Island.

Starting Friday, Eiwa Street will become a one-way street for southbound traffic with motorists being able to turn right at the Rice Street junction. Garden Island.