Sewage spills close famed Waikiki beaches, hit two other islands, Ige nixes liquefied natural gas, Public Utilities Commission sets hearings on Hawaiian Electric sale, Maui mulls parking meters, Catholic cardinal gets Kona DUI, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beach © 2015 All Hawaii News

Waikiki Beach and much of Oahu’s South Shore were placed off-limits Monday after more than 500,000 gallons of sewage, mixed with stormwater, spewed into the ocean from heavy rainfall. Star-Advertiser.

Miles of beaches are still closed Monday night after about half a million gallons of raw sewage overflowed on Atkinson Drive and then poured into the Waikiki side of Magic Island. Hawaii News Now.

Heavy rain caused numerous wastewater discharges across Oahu on Monday, from Kaneohe to Waikiki, where state officials closed Waikiki beaches on Monday due to a 500,000 gallon sewage spill near Ala Moana Center. Pacific Business News.

A massive sewage spill has shut down miles of beaches along Waikīkī and Ala Moana. Flooding from heavy rains caused more than 500,000 gallons of sewage to overflow from manholes near Ala Moana Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

Heavy rains triggered a half-million gallon sewage spill in Honolulu, prompting city officials Monday to close most of the beach fronting Waikiki. Associated Press.

An estimated half a million gallons of sewage water has spilled from a 69-foot pipe that's currently backed up. EMS warns beachgoers to stay out of the water until further notice. KITV4.

The area between Point Panic at Kakaako Waterfront Park to Kapahulu Groin in Waikiki is closed because of Monday’s sewage spill along Ala Moana Boulevard that was estimated to be 500,000 gallons. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige blew a hole in the plans of Hawaii utilities to burn liquefied natural gas to generate electricity, saying it would only delay the state’s eventual switch to renewable energy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige said Monday that the state does not need liquefied natural gas as part of its energy future and says Hawaii should focus on developing renewable energy rather than importing LNG. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is not backing down from its commitment to ship liquefied natural gas to Hawaii, following Gov. David Ige’s new stance made known on Monday that he is in opposition to LNG being imported to the state as a replacement for oil. Pacific Business News.

The Public Utilities Commission will be conducting public listening sessions next month on the proposed merger of Hawai’i’s major electricity provider. Hawaii Public Radio.

Inmate Work Furlough Program: Statistical Success or a Public Danger? Prison reform advocates and tough-on-crime proponents glean different conclusions from the same numbers concerning well-publicized prisoners who walk away — and the few who commit new crimes. Civil Beat.

Linda Lingle says she’s not giving political advice to her new boss Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner, even though he considers her a “superstar.” The former Hawaii governor, who spent eight years at the helm of the Aloha State, is now earning $198,000 as Rauner’s chief operating officer. But in a recent interview she insists she’s only helping with the day-to-day operations of the state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

State Rep. Marcus Oshiro contends the number of homeless people in Wahiawa is woefully underreported, so he’s bringing together government officials, landowners, businesses and social service providers Tuesday night to get a clearer picture of what’s really going on. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs, a major landowner around the Kakaako homeless encampment, is in talks with state and city officials about using one or two of its Kakaako properties to create short-term housing that could potentially accommodate all of the estimated 300 homeless occupants. Star-Advertiser.

While the Honolulu Police Department has not implemented a body camera program, some officers are using their own personal devices while in the field. Associated Press.

A printing problem is plaguing the state’s largest daily newspaper and the Honolulu Star-Advertiser doesn’t know when it will be fixed. KHON2.

Hawaii

Pepeekeo’s Hu Honua Bioenergy Facility once again has taken the top spot on the Hawaii State Energy Office’s list of renewable energy projects. The list ranks 45 of the state’s top clean energy leaders and is updated twice a year. Hu Honua first took the top spot in January. Tribune-Herald.

A decade after Hawaii County created a new sign ordinance and then backed off enforcing it, questions are arising in Kailua-Kona about what are and are not legal signs. West Hawaii Today.

School started for Hawaii Community College students at their new Palamanui campus on Monday morning. West Hawaii Today.

One of the high-ranking American officials of the Roman Catholic Church was arrested for drunken driving late last week in Kailua-Kona. The Most Eminent Cardinal William Joseph Levada, 79, of Menlo Park, Calif., was stopped at about midnight Thursday on Hina Lani Street and charged with DUI, according to the police arrest log. Tribune-Herald.

Approximately 70,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater was released into waters near the Kulaimano Wastewater Treatment Plant in Pepeekeo between Sunday evening and Monday morning. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

On Friday, Aug. 28. the Maui Redevelopment Agency will take up a number of issues, all of which are parking-related. The agenda shows that the big new item involves the potential “use of Capital Improvement funds for the construction of additional parking at the Wailuku Municipal Parking lot” but “old business” includes items like the “Parking Pricing RFP” and discussion on “Revisions to Parking ordinance” that will likely involve parking meters. MauiTime.

Maui County students and teachers are feeling the heat this school year with temperatures reaching 90 degrees nearly every day this month and causing principals to look for relief from state legislators and the Department of Education. Maui News.

Kauai

A sewage spill happened at the Princeville Wastewater Treatment Plant sometime between Sunday and Monday, according to Marshall Lum, a supervisor of the state Department of Health’s Wastewater Branch. Garden Island.

Apollo Kauai, a grassroots organization that promotes the use of alternative energy, is hosting a discussion on climate change called “He moku he wa’a,” which means “an island is a canoe.” Garden Island.

Hawaii schools seek more money, Office of Hawaiian Affairs spends beneficiary funds protesting Thirty Meter Telescope, Maui chancellor undecided about Haleakala telescope, bikeshare coming to Honolulu, councilwoman seeks Ethics Board change, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Google screenshot of Duke Kahanamoku tribute

In celebration of the 125th anniversary of Duke Kahanamoku’s birth, Google changed its search banner in his honor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public schools could see a boost in funding next school year under a committee's recommendation to increase the state's pot of per-pupil funding by $26.5 million.Star-Advertiser.

First-Ever Head of Hawaiian Education Foresees ‘Revolutionary’ Changes Dawn Kaui Sang’s new role brings big challenges as she looks to redefine language immersion programs and make sure every student in the state learns about Hawaiian culture — something long mandated by a constitutional amendment but with “varying degrees of implementation.” Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs spent almost $5,000 to support a massive public demonstration in Waikiki earlier this month, one focused on land use in the islands in general but opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope in particular. Many organizations contributed to the march. What’s different about OHA’s support is that it is a quasi-state agency using money designated for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. and NextEra Energy Inc. might be forced to respond to further questioning about their proposed $4.3 billion merger. In a Wednesday filing with the state Public Utilities Commission, the Hawaii Division of Consumer Advocacy requested the PUC subpoena HEI President and Chief Executive Officer Constance Lau and NextEra Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer James Robo to compel their testimony. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department plans to launch a program that would provide first responders with medical, health and other information on callers to help improve response times. Star-Advertiser.

Bike-share programs can be found in major cities all over the world, and soon one will debut in Honolulu in May 2016, but the president of Bikeshare Hawaii says, although it’s meant to ease traffic and promote fitness, riders say there are still concerns.KHON2.

The Blood Bank of Hawaii could soon find itself free of the threat of eminent domain for its main donor site in Kalihi — and in a better position to negotiate with Honolulu rail officials. Star-Advertiser.

With just nine days left before the deadline, the Ka Iwi Coast Coalition announced they had raised the $500,000 needed to buy the 182 acres mauka of the Ka Iwi Shoreline. KITV4.

After being in the works for nearly two decades, the Culinary Institute of the Pacific in Hawaii is slated to break ground within the next month after receiving the necessary building permits needed to begin construction. Pacific Business News.

State Department of Transportation officials say that due to safety and maintenance concerns, they plan to soon replace Maipalaoa Bridge, which spans Maili Stream. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille wants to see a larger, more independent Board of Ethics, and she’s working on a charter amendment to do just that. Wille said she’s sponsoring a bill for a charter amendment to change the current selection process from a five-member board appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the County Council to a nine-member board with each council member appointing a representative, subject to confirmation by the full council. West Hawaii Today.

For nearly five years, James Borden has been a fixture of Kinoole Street. His signs’ messages have ranged from anti-President Obama invectives and anti-Islam rhetoric to a more recent anti-abortion focus, the latter a result of what Borden recently deemed a “spiritual prompting.” Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s Makai Ocean Engineering has completed the world’s largest operational ocean thermal energy conversion power plant at its facility in Kona on the Big Island. The OTEC plant, which produces electricity from the ocean using the temperature difference between deep, cold and warm water surface seawater, marks the first plant of its kind to be connected to a U.S. electrical grid. Pacific Business News.

An ex-Kamehameha Schools Hawaii employee fired almost a year ago for alleged improper use of a purchasing card is suing the private school, claiming she was wrongfully terminated. Tribune-Herald.

One year after Tropical Storm Iselle toppled hundreds of albizia trees and caused millions of dollars of damage in Puna, the fast-growing tree species remains a major threat not only on Hawaii island, but across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The chancellor of University of Hawaii Maui College calls educational grant funding the college receives from construction of the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope "a good thing," even as the telescope is facing stiff public opposition, including protesters who are among the college's faculty and students. Maui News.

Speaking the same day as eight activists were arrested last week protesting the ongoing construction of the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz sought a middle ground in which the beliefs of protesters are respected while the rule of law is upheld. Maui News.

The chancellor of the University of Hawaii Maui College says he is grateful for the grant funding the school receives from construction of a controversial solar telescope, but that overall he is neutral on the issue. Associated Press.

Mayor Alan Arakawa and his administration will hold a series of community meetings in September and October to receive comments and suggestions for the proposed budget for the 2016-17 fiscal year. Maui News.

Kauai

Uluwehi Falls kicked back on Wednesday after two weeks without water. “The waterfall has miraculously begun to flow again,” Kevin Katzmann, owner of Wailua River Guides, told The Garden Island Thursday. “The waterfall is flowing stronger this morning than it has in weeks.” Garden Island.

Due to press malfunctions, there will be no delivery of Sunday's print edition of The Garden Island.

Hawaii economy perking, state, county offices closed for Statehood Day, feds troubled by Honolulu's homeless children, Kauai term limits repeal doomed, Mauna Kea Thirty Meter Telescope conflict in court, Oahu senator violated ethics code, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Shoppers in Waikiki © 2015 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s economic expansion is shaping up to be better than the state expected. Accelerated growth, more tourists, higher spending, increased construction permits and low unemployment were among the encouraging indicators in separate reports issued Thursday that showed the state is headed in the right direction. Star-Advertiser.

The construction industry in Hawaii continues to boom, with the value of private building permits issued during the first half of 2015 increasing by about 37 percent as compared with the same period a year ago, according to a new report by state economists. Pacific Business News.

Occupancy at Hawaii hotels increased on all islands last week, while the statewide average daily rate rose 2 percent, according to the weekly report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and STR Inc. Pacific Business News.

County and state offices will be closed on Friday, Aug. 21, in observance of Statehood Day, which is a state holiday. KHON2.

How serious is discrimination against Micronesians living and working Hawaii? Very serious, and it is found in our schools, our hospitals and clinics. It is also having a direct impact on Micronesians trying to find affordable housing and steady work. So said a dozen officials, social workers and community activists who shared their views at a hearing at the Hawaii State Capitol on Thursday. Civil Beat.

In an apparent effort to rein in speculation about her ambitions, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard announced Thursday that running for vice president of the United States “is certainly nothing I’ve ever thought of doing.” Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says she’s open to the idea of running for vice president next year. The two-term Hawaii congresswoman said during a visit to Kauai on Wednesday she would consider an offer from a presidential candidate to join his or her ticket, the Garden Island newspaper reported. Civil Beat.

Pay raises totaling $1 million for nearly 200 University of Hawaii executives will take effect retroactive to July 1 following a unanimous vote Thursday by the university’s Board of Regents. Star-Advertiser.

Connecting the electric grids on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island needs to be continued to be looked at, the head of the Hawaii Energy Office told Pacific Business News in a recent exclusive interview. The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission is in the midst of a review process to determine if an undersea cable would be in the public interest.

No new cesspools could be installed in Hawaii if state Department of Health rule changes are adopted by Gov. David Ige. Maui News.

Oahu

The head of the state Ethics Commission said Thursday State Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland has ignored his advice for five years that her involvement as the organizer of a popular children's event breaks the ethics code. Hawaii News Now.

The head of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness drove through the Kakaako homeless encampment this week and called it “one of the larger ones I’ve seen.” Star-Advertiser.

Peter Boylan is best known in Hawaii as a political operative, the former deputy chief of staff to the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye and campaign spokesman for former U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s failed Senate bid last year. But as of Monday, Boylan is the Honolulu City Council’s housing coordinator, a newly created position aimed at helping the Council address the city’s lack of affordable housing. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting should speed up permitting for state public housing projects, members of the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee said Thursday. The panel passed a resolution introduced by Council Chair Ernie Martin that urges the agency to work closely with the Housing Authority to minimize unnecessary delays in permitting. Civil Beat.

Alongside the lush and steep windward coast of the Hawaii island of Oahu researchers are creating images of coral reefs that are in danger of dying because of warm ocean waters. They are taking high-definition 360-degree panoramic images of the reefs and using them to monitor and study the health of corals over time. Associated Press.

The developer of a luxury condominium on the corner of Kapi’olani Boulevard and Ward Avenue is awaiting a crucial and, potentially costly, regulatory decision next month by the State. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The struggle for access to Mauna Kea continued Thursday during a hearing in Judge Ronald Ibarra’s Environmental Court. The case is a challenge to the emergency rule preventing people being on the access road or within one mile of either side from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. and prevents camping supplies being held in the area. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii must move more quickly to adopt the administrative rules that will empower it to govern the island’s highest summit. That’s according to Oahu Rep. Andria Tupola, who made the case in Kailua-Kona on Thursday that the Office of Mauna Kea Management must take decisive action. West Hawaii Today.

The Intermediate Court of Appeals has ruled that a charter school employee in Hilo violated the state ethics code by ordering and approving purchases for the school from his family businesses and is liable for $10,000 in fines levied by the state Ethics Commission. Star-Advertiser.

A dedication ceremony for a unique keiki playground took place at the Mauna Kea Recreation Area on Monday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Eight protesters were arrested early Thursday after police said they found trees, rocks and glass on the roadway ahead of a convoy of telescope parts and materials traveling to the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakala. Star-Advertiser.

A total of eight people were arrested overnight during a demonstration against the ongoing construction of the Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope atop Haleakalā. Maui Now.

Thirty Meter Telescope opponents, who continue to maintain a small camp near the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, joined protesters on Maui as they attempted to block construction of a solar telescope. Tribune-Herald.

Two Wailuku patrol officers involved in a fatal shootout on Lower Main Street in June are back at work on full duty, after being found fit to return to their jobs, police officials said Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Council Vice-Chair Ross Kagawa expects to come up one vote short in his quest to repeal term limits. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. returned a bill to repeal Kauai’s barking dog ordinance to the County Council on Thursday, unsigned. Garden Island.

State regulators said Thursday that a Hanalei River restoration project site does not appear to have discharged large amounts of sediment into Hanalei Bay as a result of heavy rainfall earlier this week. Garden Island.

A blessing was held Thursday to mark the opening of Kolopua, a workforce-housing complex in Princeville. Garden Island.

The Haena State Park of the future could include controlled entry, a 900-person daily visitor cap and beach access by way of an elevated boardwalk. More than 200 people gathered at the Hanalei School cafeteria Wednesday to hear Kimi Yuen, senior associate with contractor PBR Hawaii, explain the vision mapped out in a plan geared at renewing the park’s emphasis on Haena’s cultural and historical significance while resolving issues pertaining to large crowds, lack of parking and too much traffic. Garden Island.

Maui telescope protesters arrested, Honolulu mayor plans fence to keep out homeless, Hawaii councilwoman drinks geothermal water, $135M Coco Palms project advances, teachers plan ethics lawsuit, Lanai's Ellison rescues cats, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii coffee cherry © 2015 All Hawaii News

Prices for Hawaii-grown coffee rose to a record this past season, but growers of the crop statewide produced fewer beans that added up to less total revenue, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

State Lawmakers were briefed today on the latest tax collection modernization effort started more than 15 years ago. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii State Teachers Association may take legal action against new educational travel rule. KHON2.

A social investment firm has joined Hawaii Gas in calling on the state Public Utilities Commission to force NextEra Energy and Hawaiian Electric to turn over internal emails about using liquefied natural gas to help power the islands. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii agency wants NextEra Energy Inc., which is proposing to buy Hawaiian Electric Co. for $4.3 billion, to commit to not having any involuntary workforce reductions for four years after the closing of the deal, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Sitting on the Diamond Head bank of Kapalama Canal, Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed a bill Wednesday that adds more pressure on the persistent homeless encampment by making it illegal to put anything into the already fetid and littered drainage canal. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Wednesday morning that a one-mile fence will be constructed along the Kapalama Canal from Olomea Street to Kalani Street on both sides of the waterway. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell vetoed a bill Wednesday that would expand the city's ban on sitting and lying down in public to more pedestrian malls. Associated Press.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell vetoed a bill Wednesday that would expand the city's ban on sitting and lying down in public to more pedestrian malls.KITV4.

In a city with a growing homelessness crisis, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell visited an Oahu canal lined with tents sheltering homeless people to sign a bill banning camping on the banks of city-owned streams. Associated Press.

A business deal brokered more than 10 years ago during a clandestine meeting at an Italian restaurant in Hawaii Kai has set the stage for a bitter legal dispute that today embroils a Honolulu rail contractor in allegations of fraud, deception and profiteering. Nan Inc. recently won a $56 million contract to build three West Oahu rail stations. The company, which has taken advantage of federal minority business programs, is at the center of state and federal lawsuits alleging questionable business practices. Civil Beat.

The honu hubbub at the USS Arizona Memorial has been resolved. The famed sunken battleship, a grave for most of the ship’s 1,177 crew members killed on Dec. 7, 1941, was deemed a no-go when the Navy detachment piloting launches to the memorial’s floating dock noticed threatened green sea turtles nibbling on algae near the boat landing, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

City Council Chair Ernie Martin urged Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday to re-evaluate his current effort to find a private company to replace Honolulu’s streetlights with LED lights. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee gave tentative approval Wednesday to a subsidy for recycling companies that would cost taxpayers more than $1.2 million annually, with nearly $1 million going to an Oregon-based scrap metal company. Civil Beat.

Shirokiya Holdings Inc. will more than triple the size of its food court and beer garden when it opens a $35 million Japanese food village next year on the ground floor of the new expanded Ewa wing at Ala Moana Center. Star-Advertiser.

Fans for Ewa schools are courtesy of state Rep. Matt LoPresti’s “Cool Schools 4 Ewa” initiative, which seeks donations from businesses for fans and air conditioners for Ewa schools. Launched Wednesday, the program had already obtained a donation of 54 fans — six of them purchased by LoPresti — with money from an anonymous donation and a discount from City Mill in Ewa Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Ka‘u Councilwoman Maile David has her concerns about tapping geothermal sources for energy, but that didn’t stop her from drinking water allegedly sourced from a geothermal well or spring Wednesday during a County Council meeting in Kailua-Kona. Tribune-Herald.

North Kona Councilwoman Karen Eoff wants protection of natural and cultural resources to be a foundation of all future planning decisions. West Hawaii Today.

The parent company of Oahu's Castle Medical Center is considering an acquisition of three public hospitals on the Big Island. Associated Press.

East Hawaii’s financially strapped public health care facilities might have a potential suitor in California-based Adventist Health. Tribune-Herald.

A Hilo Circuit Court judge ruled Wednesday he doesn’t have jurisdiction in a case seeking a preliminary injunction to halt construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

A woman arrested on Mauna Kea Access Road two consecutive nights last month said her motives have been misunderstood and she intended no disrespect to those attempting to stop the building of the Thirty Meter Telescope on the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
At least eight people were arrested early Thursday morning as hundreds of protesters attempted to block construction of the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope on the summit of Haleakala, organizers say. Hawaii News Now.

Several demonstrators were arrested overnight during a blockade on Crater Road as they encountered a convoy carrying equipment and telescope parts to Haleakala for ongoing construction of the Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope. Maui Now.

Demonstrators rallied once again late Wednesday night in an effort to prevent a convoy with parts and materials from reaching the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under construction on the summit of Haleakala. Star-Advertiser.

Less than three weeks after 20 protesters were arrested for trying to block a transport of telescope equipment headed for Haleakala, members of Kako'o Haleakala have planned another demonstration tonight in hopes of stopping another wide-load convoy from reaching the summit. Maui News.

An official with the Global Virtual Studio Accelerator will be providing information today about its efforts to aid the launching of media businesses and projects. Maui News.

Kauai

The $135 million project to redevelop the famed Coco Palms Resort on Kauai came one step closer to becoming a reality after Kauai County officials on Wednesday released the first set of permits needed to begin demolition work. Pacific Business News.

The Kauai County Planning Department received verification from the State Historic Preservation Division that Coco Palms Hui, LLC has met its agency requirements related to the demolition and reconstruction of the Coco Palms Hotel, the county stated in a press release Wednesday evening. Garden Island.

Hanalei Bay’s blue hue has turned a yellowish brown, and state regulators say sediment runoff originating from the upper watershed are to blame. Garden Island.

A Kauai police officer is facing up to five years in prison for allegedly striking a teenage pedestrian with his patrol car while responding to the scene of an accident earlier this year. Civil Beat.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard was the featured speaker at the Kauai Chamber of Commerce luncheon Wednesday. Garden Island.

Lanai
Buzzfeed has a fun story about how billionaire Larry Ellison, the owner of Lanai, also owns an animal rescue center on the island. The center is needed, as there are more than 400 feral cats on Lanai. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian monk seal protections expanded, Maori visit Mauna Kea, more gay tourists sought, Big Island Roundup ban bill yanked, Laniakea barriers coming down, Maui home sold for $41.8M, state mental health hospital due $150M in upgrades, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian monk seal and pup, courtesy NOAA

The federal government expanded the critical habitat for Hawaiian monk seals by 7,000 square miles Tuesday, a move aimed at preventing the declining species from going extinct. Civil Beat.

Federal officials are expanding protections for Hawaiian monk seals around portions of the main Hawaiian Islands in an attempt to help save the species,  which is believed to number only about 1,100 and is declining at a rate of about 4 percent a year. Star-Advertiser.

The National Marine Fisheries Service today issued a final rule protecting nearly 7,000 square miles of critical habitat for Hawaiian monk seals, a species considered among the world’s most endangered marine mammals. Maui Now.

Federal regulators have issued a final rule geared at protecting 7,000 square miles of critical habitat for Hawaiian monk seals, one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals. Garden Island.

Dozens of tourism officials are meeting today in Waikīkī to discuss LGBT travel in Hawai‘i. Hotels, tour groups, and local businesses are hoping to better promote the islands as a destination for the gay market. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's the new state health director, Dr. Ginny Pressler, plans to ask the Legislature for $150 million next session to build a state-of-the-art forensic facility at the Hawaii State Hospital to add more beds, specialized care and better equipment. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Department of Education is planning to beef up the number of investigators tasked with reviewing cases of employee misconduct later this month, one of several initiatives aimed at streamlining a process that can currently drag on for up to a year. Civil Beat.

The Department of Education has placed 43 employees on leave during an investigation into alleged misconduct. Associated Press.

Hawaii had the fewest non-fatal injuries from firearms in 2010 in a comparison of 18 states, including California, New York and Florida, a new study shows. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Nearly $40 million has been invested in a $200 million plan to revitalize farming in Central Oahu by providing farmers with land, water, housing, packaging and shipping facilities, one of the plan’s major stakeholders said. Pacific Business News.

State transportation officials have until Monday to remove the barriers that have blocked parking at Laniakea Beach, according to the coalition of North Shore community members and activists that sued to bring them down. Star-Advertiser.

As they do every workday, a maintenance crew cleared scores of sidewalks structures and personal belongings Tuesday as the city continued enforcement actions that hit the homeless in areas throughout Oahu where they congregate. Star-Advertiser.

City Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga hopes to preserve and promote industrial uses along the rail transit route through a bill that seeks to offer real property tax incentives. Star-Advertiser.

The number of photovoltaic permits issued by the City and County of Hono­lulu rose 47 percent as they continued reversing a trend that had seen permits fall for two years in a row. Star-Advertiser.

A controversial bill imposing noise restrictions on pet birds in residential zones was shelved by a Honolulu City Council committee Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The city says it has finished counting the number of trash and recycling bins throughout Oahu. It’s a process that took more than eight months. KHON2.

University of Hawaii West Oahu Chancellor Rockne Freitas is retiring at the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

A combination of restaurant and shopping options could be replacing the Macy's store in Kailua in Windward Oahu after it closes down in early 2016, the head of Alexander & Baldwin Inc.'s subsidiary's Kailua operations confirmed to Pacific Business News.

On Tuesday, local companies wanting to get their products on the shelves at military commissaries showed up at the Hawaii Prince Hotel to hand out their samples. KITV4.

Hawaii

A bill aimed at finding alternatives to Monsanto Co.’s Roundup and other non-organic weed killers was facing certain death Tuesday at the County Council Environmental Management Committee when it was swiftly uprooted by sponsor Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille. West Hawaii Today.

After struggling to come up with a definition of “public purpose,” and in the absence of key players, the County Council Finance Committee on Tuesday postponed a bill to tighten rules governing county purchasing card policies. West Hawaii Today.

A new ad hoc committee will tackle road connectivity in Puna. The County Committee on Public Works and Parks and Recreation discussed the finalization of the committee during an 11 a.m. meeting Tuesday in Kona. Big Island Now.

Big Island Video News caught a glimpse of a special cultural exchange at Pu’u Huluhulu on Monday. Participants say 250 visiting Maori ʻohana from Rotorua, Aotearoa shared song and chant with a large group associated with the Ku Kia’i Mauna movement.

How Lanakila Mangauil came to Mauna Kea. The first installment of a three-part profile of Joshua Lanakila Mangauil, based on interviews conducted over several weeks. Hawaii Independent.

Maui

A 6,737-square-foot home on more than four acres in Makena sold for close to $41.8 million in what may be a record for a residential real estate sale on Maui. Pacific Business News.

To ease Maui's pet overpopulation problem, the Maui Humane Society has begun a mobile clinic program that recently spayed and neutered - for free - more than 1,050 dogs and cats in nine days. Maui News.

Kauai

Two dozen kayak tour operators pored over hydrology maps with state officials Tuesday in hopes of determining why Uluwehi Falls, the crown jewel of the Wailua River kayak tour industry, has dried up. Garden Island.

Molokai

A Hawaii energy consulting firm and its finance subsidiary plan to develop a microgrid project for the only slaughterhouse on Molokai, the firm told Pacific Business News.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.