Honolulu rail on track, Ige vetoes eight bills, Tongan, Micronesian and Native Hawaiian students most likely to be suspended, Hawaii council chairman takes lobbyist's gifts, Kauai police settle sexual harassment case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail project, courtesy HART

Rail leaders gathered Tuesday to tout progress on one of the most complicated and dramatic maneuvers needed to complete Oahu's rail transit system, but they also acknowledged that construction is taking its toll on many businesses in Leeward Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

O’ahu’s 6-billion dollar rail transit project marked a major milestone today as construction moves toward Pearl City. Hawaii Public Radio.

There’s a bit of relief when it comes to construction of the city’s $6.2 billion rail project. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Tuesday, the elevated guideway for the driverless train has crossed all of the westbound lanes of the H-1 Freeway near the H-2 merge.  KITV4.

Gov. David Ige vetoed eight bills Tuesday, including measures that would have created a new crime of sex trafficking and allowed University of Hawaii graduate students to unionize to bargain for better pay and working conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has followed through on his previously announced plans to veto eight bills. That includes measures to combat sex trafficking, allow University of Hawaii graduate students to unionize and clarify the order of succession for lieutenant governor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has vetoed a total of eight bills passed during the 2015 legislative session, including one that would have doubled the monetary value of retail goods that suspected thieves can steal before they are charged with a felony. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has vetoed a bill that would have created a victim-centered approach to combating sex trafficking in Hawaii, citing concerns that changes to the law could make it more difficult to prosecute pimps, a claim that advocates for sex trafficking victims dispute. Associated Press.

A bill to establish Hawaii’s first medical marijuana dispensary system will become law at midnight Tuesday, without Gov. David Ige’s signature. Pacific Business News.

Opinion:  What killed Hawaii’s sex trafficking bill? A step in the right direction toward combating sex trafficking in Hawaii has been torpedoed by some of the very people trying to end the exploitative practice; the evidence points to internal political squabbling as the reason.  Hawaii Independent.

In 2013-14, Tongan, Micronesian and Native Hawaiian students were suspended at four times the rate of their Japanese peers and were twice as likely to be suspended as white and Filipino students. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has been awarded an $8.7 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, according to a press release from Hawaii’s congressional delegation. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Waikiki Neighborhood Board and community members applauded state Rep. Tom Brower on Tuesday, his first appearance at their monthly meeting since an attack by homeless youth on him during a walk though the growing Kakaako encampment last month. Star-Advertiser.

Tackling the homeless issue in Kakaako requires a coordinated response by various landowners and government agencies, Gov. David Ige said Tuesday at the Hawaii Publishers Association's quarterly meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Just four months after Honolulu City Councilman Ikaika Anderson said he wouldn’t agree to allowing a new residential community at Malaekahana, City Council Chair Ernie Martin has introduced a planning document that would permit 875 homes in the area despite opposition from community groups like the Defend Oahu Coalition. Civil Beat.

Environmentalists are calling it one of the worst cases of stream pollution they've seen in years. A new report says that a 1,000-foot long drainage canal that runs from Barbers Point Beach Park to Island Recycling's Kapolei facility is heavily contaminated with lead, arsenic and petroleum products. Hawaii News Now.

It was a packed house Tuesday night as hundreds showed up at a town hall meeting to discuss the future of Maunalua Bay. KHON2.

Hawaii

County Council Chairman Dru Kanuha accepted $536 worth of airfare from unregistered lobbyists while sponsoring a bill benefiting them, according to gift disclosures filed with the county Board of Ethics. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. David Ige on Tuesday signed the new emergency rule that prohibits camping and restricts public access on Mauna Kea, the site of ongoing protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope. Ige said in a statement that the rule, which will remain in effect for 120 days, gives the state an additional tool to keep the road safe for all. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo soon will fly the U.S. and Hawaii state flags at equal heights following protests late last year from students and community members. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Department of Water Supply finds that there will be no significant impact from a proposed water production well in North Kona, even though its located in the contentious Keauhou Aquifer. Big Island Video News.

A Hilo native who has run for Congress multiple times announced Monday his plans to run for Mayor of Hawai’i County in 2016. David “Kawika” Crowley, 64, said he will be setting up an exploratory committee in the upcoming weeks to secure his decision, but is confident he’ll be running next year. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County Council members will consider Thursday whether to authorize the settlement of two multimillion-dollar tax appeal cases, both involving wind farm companies alleging that the county improperly assessed their properties by including the value of wind turbines and towers as part of the tax assessment. Maui News.

Skippy Hau, an aquatics biologist with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Aquatic Resources has dedicated much of his career to studying the life cycles and movements of fresh water fish, shrimp, and snails. Maui Now.

Although 10 million gallons of water per day has been returned to Iao Stream since October, it is hard to tell so far if more freshwater species are flourishing, said Skippy Hau, an aquatics biologist with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui News.

Kauai

An audit of Kauai County’s payroll system found a lack of proper documentation, overpayments, and process flaws that create the potential for fraud. Garden Island.

The Kauai Police Department will pay $100,000 to settle a case alleging retaliation against a police sergeant who claimed she was sexually harassed. Garden Island.

Lanai

A fishpond on the coastline of Lanai that is believed to be 800 years old is being restored this summer by children and adults. Associated Press.

A fishpond believed to be some 800 years old is being restored on the eastern coastline of Lanai by children and adults and will hopefully encourage future stewardship of the island's forgotten cultural resources. Maui News.

Transgender birth certificates easier in Hawaii, Mauna Kea access reopened, pCard audit almost complete, Laniakea Beach barriers coming down, Honolulu taxi companies fight Uber, telecom exec stole $4M, solar panel woes on Molokai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian fishponds © 2015 All Hawaii News

Governor David Ige signed three bills into law today relating to Water Resource Management that deal with hydroelectric facilities, water scalping and Native Hawaiian fishponds. Maui Now.

Gov. David Ige signed a bill Monday that will allow transgender men and women in Hawaii to more easily change the gender on their birth certificate. The new law eliminates the requirement that someone must undergo gender reassignment surgery before officially making the switch. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige signed a bill Monday that will allow transgender men and women in Hawaii to more easily change the gender on their birth certificate. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige signed a bill Monday that will allow transgender men and women in Hawaii to more easily change the gender on their birth certificate. Garden Island.

Gov. David Ige has appointed Central Pacific Bank President Lance Mizumoto as the new chair of the Board of Education. Civil Beat.

A federal jury in Hawaii has found the president of a telecommunications company guilty on charges that he illegally used $4 million in corporation money over a decade and underreported his income tax. Associated Press.

A federal jury found Honolulu businessman Albert S.N. Hee guilty Monday of concealing from the Internal Revenue Service that his company deducted as legitimate business expenses money it paid to cover his personal expenses and of filing false tax returns for not claiming the payments as personal income. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A court order issued last week gives the state until Aug. 7 to remove the concrete barriers that block access to an unimproved parking area across from Laniakea Beach. Star-Advertiser.

The investigation of the June 29 assault on state Rep. Tom Brower at a growing Kaka­ako homeless encampment has moved from the state attorney general's office to the Honolulu Police Department, but Brower still has not decided whether to pursue criminal charges. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council’s history is pockmarked with ethical lapses when it comes to how members spend their annual contingency allowances. A Civil Beat review of nearly $180,000 in expenses during the 2015 fiscal year, which ended June 30, shows significant improvements have been made.

Honolulu’s largest taxi dispatch companies are gearing up for what’s expected to be a protracted fight to convince the City Council to make Uber and other ride-booking companies adhere to the same regulations all cabs must follow. Civil Beat.

A company is slowing down its proposal for a new thrill ride on Oahu's south shore. Waikiki Beach Activities is delaying its plan to install two zip lines over the lagoon at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii state and local policymakers are holding a town hall meeting Tuesday to discuss new restrictions on Maunalua Bay proposed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Civil Beat.

A town hall meeting will be held Tuesday to discuss the future of Maunalua Bay. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is proposing that the bay become part of an expanded Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. KHON2.

Honolulu officials are calling for stricter enforcement of Oahu's new plastic bag bans as environmentalists complain the law has too many loopholes. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The Office of Mauna Kea Management on Monday afternoon reopened the Mauna Kea Access Road, which was shut down last month following protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope. Additionally, Gov. David Ige is planning to sign the new emergency rule that prohibits camping and restricts public access on the mountain, according to spokeswoman Cindy McMillan. Tribune-Herald.

The access road leading to the summit of Mauna Kea was reopened Monday afternoon after damage caused by protesters forced officials to shut down the road for more than two weeks. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii reopened the road leading up to the summit of Mauna Kea at 3 p.m. Monday after finishing remedial work and grading, according to a press release. Civil Beat.

The State is moving to restrict activities on Mauna Kea in response to Native Hawaiian protests over the Thirty Meter Telescope project. Hawaii Public Radio.

Cynthia Marlin, the 47 year old resident of Pahoa who was arrested Sunday after allegedly striking an Office of Mauna Kea Management ranger vehicle with her own car, was back on the mountain Monday evening. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County officials are working against a Wednesday deadline to respond to findings of a draft audit into their use of county credit cards, known as pCards. West Hawaii Today.

In response to numerous complaints about squatters living in vacant, bank-owned homes in Puna, Hawaii County Councilman Greggor Ilagan formed a task force and is seeking public input in an effort to find a solution. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A $2.8 million project to remove and replace a badly deteriorated pier adjacent to the Māʻalaea Small Boat Harbor new ferry terminal building began on Tuesday. Maui Now.

Public comments are being solicited for a proposal to continue allowing catamaran boarding at Maluaka Beach fronting the Makena Beach & Golf Resort. Maui News.

Jeffrey Pearson, an engineer and water official with the County of Maui, got a big boost to his resume last week when Governor David Ige announced that he’d soon take over as deputy to the chairperson of the state Commission on Water Resource Management as well as chief executive officer to the Commission. MauiTime.

Maui's drinking water quality is "very, very good" and is "much, much cleaner" than regulations require, Maui County Department of Water Supply Director David Taylor says. Maui News.

Wailuku businessman Joe Blackburn is launching his third campaign for the Maui County Council's Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat. Maui News.

Kauai
Members of the public will have an opportunity to weigh-in on whether to repeal Kauai County’s barking dog ordinance. Ordinance No. 967, which went into effect in March 2014, provides penalties for dog owners who fail to keep their animal quiet. Garden Island.

Kauai County will pay a police sergeant $100,000 in damages under a conciliation agreement that settles a case in which the sergeant said she suffered retaliation after alleging sexual harassment by an assistant chief. Star-Advertiser.

A blessing to mark the completion of Kekaha Gardens’ Kaleimanu Park was held last Friday. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Hawaiian Island of Molokai is facing serious issues when it comes to the inability of the utility’s grid to accommodate more rooftop solar photovoltaic systems. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii's endangered nene goose rebounding, woman rams car into Mauna Kea manager vehicle, state short of shrinks, Maui cardiac unit underused, Honolulu landfill to close, sex trafficking enforcement to target hotels, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Nene geese © 2015 All Hawaii News

Decades of conservation efforts to help the nene population rebound are paying off as scientists begin to understand more about the endangered bird’s ecology and life history. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige will sign a bill into law on Monday that aims to expand the development of hydroelectric energy-generating projects in the state, the governor’s office said Friday. Pacific Business News.

Female leaders from the state's visitor industry are urging businesses to play a greater role in stopping sex trafficking, which they say is victimizing children from Hawaii and elsewhere. Star-Advertiser.

Psychologists and clerical staff in the Health Department's Courts and Corrections Branch have filed an internal complaint about shortages they say are resulting in serious consequences for mentally ill defendants and the community. Star-Advertiser.

The cost of a private school education in Hawaii continues to climb as the state's larger independent schools are charging 5 percent more in tuition, on average, for the upcoming school year, according to a Honolulu Star-Advertiser analysis.

Oahu

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources issued another reprieve to the financially adrift Wakiki Landing, a controversial public-private partnership at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Despite the desperate need for low-income housing, about 175 public housing units are sitting empty, largely because state policymakers haven’t allocated enough funding and resources to renovate them. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige said Thursday his administration is working with Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell to create a new emergency shelter area in Kakaako on state land that’s away from the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center. Civil Beat.

A resolution to expedite the closure of the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill won City Council approval last week at Kapolei Hale. Star-Advertiser.

Residents of Oahu neighborhoods would be able to band together and petition for "restricted parking zones" along their streets under a bill before the City Council. They could then pay for exclusive rights to park their cars in those zones. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
The public will have a chance to weigh in on a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposal for cleanup of unexploded ordnance in the former Waikoloa Maneuver Area. West Hawaii Today.

The new warden at Hawaii Community Correctional Center credits “hard work, determination, timing and some luck” for his appointment to the Hilo jail’s top post. Peter Cabreros was the facility’s chief of security for 12 years before becoming its warden Wednesday following the retirement of former warden Pete MacDonald. Tribune-Herald.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5-2 Friday night on the 120-day rule restricting access to Mauna Kea. The rule restricts being within a mile of the mountain’s access road during certain nighttime hours, unless in a moving vehicle, and prohibits camping gear. Tribune-Herald.

A woman was arrested on Mauna Kea in the early hours of Sunday morning, after allegedly hitting an Office of Mauna Kea Management vehicle with her car. Big Island Video News.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5-2 to approve an emergency rule that would restrict access on Mauna Kea and forbid camping materials. State officials made the decision after more than 8 hours of public testimony. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

An underutilized cardiac unit and an outpatient clinic that was vacant for four years contributed to the financial plight of Maui Memorial Medical Center, which must cut $28 million in the fiscal year that began July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

A $220,000 project to repair floorboards and areas damaged by a leaky roof at the Kilauea gymnasium is expected to get under way this month, according to Kauai County officials. Garden Island.

Kauai’s four lawmakers sponsored fewer pieces of legislation compared to their colleagues in the state Legislature during the past session. Garden Island.

As part of the county’s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan, the rollout of the final phase of the automated trash collection program took place last week. Garden Island.

Elections chief gets big raise, Stryker to leave islands, Kauai mulls ending term limits, emergency Mauna Kea rules to be decided today, $16.7M for East-West Center, Maui windpower unused, Ige signs domestic violence bills, scientists seek sea mining balance, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Elections Chief Scott Nago © 2015 All Hawaii News

The state Elections Commission voted Thursday to give a $10,000 pay raise to Chief Election Officer Scott Nago, who has come under fire from the public following the last two elections. Nago will now be paid $90,000 annually, up from $80,000. Star-Advertiser.

The $1.5 billion 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, one of the biggest Army projects in Hawaii since World War II and one that required land purchases and roads and new ranges to be built, is now going away. Star-Advertiser.

The Army plans to pull Stryker combat vehicles out of Hawaii and convert the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team at Schofield into an infantry brigade combat team, U.S. Army Pacific said in a statement. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige has given final approval to a package of bills designed to help victims and the authorities cope with problems related to domestic abuse and sexual assault. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii oceanography professor Craig Smith and a team of scientists from around the world have proposed a strategy to balance the battle between deep-sea mining interests and ecosystem sustainability. Civil Beat.

A stretch of sea floor beginning 500 miles southeast of Hawaii is ground zero for an emerging deep sea mining industry — and the debate over how such extractions should be managed. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority’s board of directors on Thursday elected L. Richard Fried, a founding member of the Honolulu law firm Cronin, Fried, Sekiya, Kekina & Fairbanks, to serve the state tourism agency's new chairman. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A U.S. Senate committee has approved a $16.7 million appropriation for the East-West Center in Hawaii, which would continue the Honolulu-based center's level of support for the third year in a row. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii still has a long way to go in curbing homelessness among veterans. While places like New Orleans have practically eliminated veteran homelessness as part of a five-year national goal set by President Barack Obama in 2010, Hawaii has yet to gain a firm foothold in finding homes for hundreds of veterans. Civil Beat.

The city Emergency Services Department credits a switch to 12-hour shifts for its paramedics and emergency service technicians for a $700,000 drop in overtime costs last fiscal year, Emergency Services Director Mark Rigg said. But staff shortages continue to be a problem. Star-Advertiser.

The rail project is getting into more congested residential and business areas, but to get the train going, some property owners will have to sell. That’s getting more and more expensive and complicated. KHON2.

The Hawaii agency charged with overseeing the redevelopment of the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako has shelved a proposal that would have created an economic accelerator in the former World Gym building on Queen Street. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Emails obtained by the Hawaii Tribune-Herald reveal details about the state’s strategy — and its struggles — to deal with months-long protest atop Mauna Kea by those opposed to construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope.

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin plans to hold a press conference at 11 a.m. Friday to provide more information about the need for the administration’s proposed emergency rule for Mauna Kea. The Board of Land and Natural Resources is set to consider the rule, drafted by DLNR Chair Suzanne Case and Chin, sometime after 1 p.m. Friday. Civil Beat.

A Federal District Court judge declined to issue a Temporary Restraining Order against the State of Hawai’i Thursday after holding a hearing on a suit alleging that cultural and religious access to Mauna Kea was being restricted through rules enforced by the Department of Land and Natural Resources and the Office of Mauna Kea Management. Big Island Now.

State officials released Thursday a long list of issues and problems linked to Thirty Meter Telescope protesters ahead of Friday’s state Board of Land and Natural Resources meeting to consider restricting nonvehicular nighttime access to the Mauna Kea summit region. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii has released logs kept by Mauna Kea rangers and employees at the visitors center. The documents come ahead of today's Board of Land and Natural Resources meeting. On the agenda is an emergency rule that would prohibit camping and restrict nighttime access on the mountain. Hawaii Public Radio.

Both the rangers from the office of Mauna Kea Management and the visitor information station staff have been documenting their daily activities on the mountain. Many of those describe what's been called a "hostile" environment. KITV4.

Big Island hunters are bristling at a proposed rule being considered by the state land board Friday that they say needlessly restricts their own activities while mixing Mauna Kea protests with unrelated hunting activity. West Hawaii Today.

Another chapter closed this week on former South Kona/Ka‘u Councilwoman Brenda Ford’s challenge of Environmental Management Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd’s qualifications to hold that office. West Hawaii Today.

A pristine stretch of the North Kona coast has become home to what is likely the largest residential micro-grid project of its kind in the world. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Electric Co. dumped 7 percent of wind power produced in 2014, a significant improvement from 2013 when 17 percent of electricity generated from the three Maui wind farms went unused. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. is working to reduce the amount of wind power that goes unused each year. Associated Press.

The county Department of Water Supply's capital improvement projects manager has been nominated to become the chief executive officer of the state Commission on Water Resource Management and deputy director to the chairwoman of the panel. Maui News.

Little fire ants are living up to their reputation as a tough-to-beat invasive species, but those working to eradicate them haven't given up hope, even as crews hack their way into Nahiku's dense rain forest to cut paths to get to infested areas. Maui News.

Kauai

Voters could soon be asked to decide whether to keep or eliminate term limits for County Council members. On Wednesday, Kauai County Council Vice-Chair Ross Kagawa will introduce a resolution that, if approved, would put the option to repeal term limits on the 2016 ballot. Garden Island.

The military’s plan to shrink the size of the Army — which will reduce spending by several billion dollars — will not affect the island of Kauai, Army officials said Thursday. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is trying to bring the PGA Grand Slam of Golf back to the Islands after the PGA announced it would not hold the October event at Trump National Golf Club Los Angeles following owner Donald Trump’s controversial comments on immigration and the subsequent business fallout. Pacific Business News.

U.S. Senator Brian Schatz spoke to The Garden Island Thursday on a number of Hawaii topics around Washington, D.C. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Schatz is heavily involved in spending decisions, and he is in position to help steer some of those funds back to the state and to the island of Kauai. Garden Island.

Army cuts to be announced for Hawaii, finance director cleared in Kenoi pCard use, Ellison's Island Air $35M in the red, Honolulu mulls 500 Kakaako homeless, Native Hawaiians sue over Mauna Kea access, legal fees upped to $2.25M in Maui wastewater case, tax refunds still lagging, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Soldiers at Pohakuloa Training Area © 2015 All Hawaii News

Army personnel cuts are being announced for Hawaii, Alaska and Georgia — among other locations — according to Alaska’s congressional delegation. How many soldiers will be cut in Hawaii has not been announced. Star-Advertiser.

The possibility of the U.S. Army eliminating nearly 20,000 soldier and civilian jobs from Hawaii's Schofield Barracks and Fort Shafter is extremely unlikely to be fully realized, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. Army is transferring its western medical headquarters to Hawaii from Washington state, bringing 61 jobs and a command position for a general officer. Pacific Business News.

Island Air, downsizing in the wake of mounting losses, is now nearly $35 million in the red through its first two years under the ownership of billionaire Larry Ellison. Star-Advertiser.

State still needs to process nearly 8,000 tax refund requests. Hawaii News Now.

Friend or Foe? Kathryn Xian Has Become a Problem for Anti-Trafficking Advocates Hawaii human-trafficking activists say Kathryn Xian’s in-your-face style is hindering progress and hurting the victims they are trying to help. Now, she’s in danger of losing her seat on a statewide task force working to find solutions to the issue she’s so closely identified with. Civil Beat.

Oahu

State and city officials are promising to work together to ease a growing homeless population in Kakaako, where an estimated 500 people are living in tents and makeshift structures. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time in its history, the Hawaii Community Development Authority waded into the issue of homelessness Wednesday as it held an open discussion on the burgeoning encampment in Kakaako. Civil Beat.

The Hawai’i Community Development Authority heard from major stakeholders in Kaka’ako today on the homeless encampments there. Hawaii Public Radio

Gov. David Ige has given the nod to plans to purchase upscale 25-story downtown office building Alii Place to provide more office space for state workers, but the $90 million purchase is not a done deal quite yet. Star-Advertiser.

Two Hawaii Health Systems Corp. hospitals on Oahu will have to lay off 64 workers and temporarily freeze admissions, officials said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has overturned a former circuit judge’s order disqualifying two city deputy prosecutors from a high-profile gambling case involving sweepstakes machines.Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu businessman Albert Hee says the two-hour, twice weekly massages he has been getting for the past 20 years have a legitimate business purpose because they “allowed me to function as CEO” of Waimana Enterprises Inc. Star-Advertiser.

If you feel your neighborhood has gone to the birds, then you’re likely to support a bill introduced by Councilmember Carol Fukunaga that would create a permitting system for homeowners with 10 or more birds. KITV4.

Hawaii
Hawaii County Finance Director Deanna Sako was cleared Wednesday of any wrongdoing in Mayor Billy Kenoi’s misuse of his county-issued credit card, while the county Board of Ethics reopened a case against Kenoi that it had deferred pending an investigation by the state attorney general. The Ethics Board is now in disagreement over whether it should continue its investigation into Kenoi’s pCard use or wait for Attorney General Doug Chin to complete his criminal investigation. West Hawaii Today.

The Board of Ethics on Wednesday dismissed a complaint against Mayor Billy Kenoi and his former campaign manager Kimo Alameda, after receiving assurances from the county Human Resources Department that Kenoi wasn’t involved in Alameda’s appointment as executive of the Office of Aging, and that Alameda had the requisite two years supervisory experience. West Hawaii Today.

A lawsuit has been filed in Federal District Court alleging that the Office of Mauna Kea Management and other state agencies are restricting cultural and religious practices on the mountain. Big Island Now.

Photographers who share a passion for capturing imagery on Mauna Kea are uniting in opposition to proposed rules that will restrict access to the scenic mountain. Big Island Video News.

Kona Community Hospital began a construction project Wednesday to renovate and expand its emergency department. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council approved raising compensation to $2.25 million on Tuesday for private legal counsel to defend against a lawsuit in which the county faces millions of dollars in fines over its use of four injection wells at its Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui News.

Kauai

An audit of Kauai County’s Department of Human Resources found hiring practices lacking, potentially creating a situation in which personnel decisions regarding unskilled laborers can be made on something other than merit. Garden Island.

More than 100 Native Hawaiians gathered at the Anahola Clubhouse Tuesday to hear Colleen Hanabusa trace the history of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, putting in context the significance of a pair of newly proposed federal rules that aim to govern its enforcement. Garden Island.

A plan to allow the county to recover fuel expenses incurred during search-and-rescue operations is on the fast-track for final approval after it was unanimously passed by the Public Safety Committee on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Gov. David Ige has yet to sign rules intended to create Hawaii’s first Community-Based Subsistence Fishing Area for Haena on the north shore of Kauai. The seven-month delay has irked those who fought for the past several years to convince the state Board of Land and Natural Resources to take action to ensure the sustainability of the near-shore ocean resources there by implementing a program based on culturally rooted practices. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's restaurant inspection database fails, hotels busy, Ige signs farm-to-school, overdose bills, legislators trim spending after ethics rules, UH athletics in the red again, turmoil atop Mauna Kea, Molokai ferry seeks as-needed schedule, federal money for coffee berry borer, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii restaurant inspection placard © 2015 All Hawaii News

One year after requiring restaurants to display safety inspection placards for their patrons, and after spending nearly $170,000, the Hawaii State Department of Health is going back to the drawing board to launch a restaurant database the public can access online. Pacific Business News.

While Hawaii's hotel market started the year slowly, the pickup seen in March has continued and led to a record-setting May. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige signed a farm-to-school bill Tuesday that is intended to increase the amount of local food students eat in Hawaii’s public school system and boost their understanding of its importance. Civil Beat

Gov. David Ige on Tuesday approved a bill designed to help reduce the number of drug- and alcohol-related deaths in Hawaii by encouraging bystanders to call for help when they witness an overdose. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii ranks 40th among states for its overall “fiscal health,” according to a national study by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. The study, released Tuesday, measured fiscal solvency of the 50 states based on short- and long-term debt and other “key fiscal obligations,” such as unfunded pensions and health care benefits. Civil Beat.

How Hawaii Lawmakers Spend Up to $13,000 a Year — Each. A review of this year’s spending shows legislators are much less inclined to spend public money on questionable expenses. Civil Beat.

Donald Horner, who has led the state Board of Education since 2011, announced Tuesday he is stepping down as its chairman this month. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige will be selecting a new chair for the state Board of Education after Don Horner announced plans on Tuesday to step down from the position later this month. Civil Beat.

New Hawai’i Homelessness data reveals a growing population that is older and mentally or physically disabled. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has conditionally approved 4,176 out of roughly 5,700 customers with rooftop solar energy systems waiting to be connected to its grid who were stuck in the queue since October, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Abnormally warm ocean temperatures are creating conditions that threaten to kill coral across the equatorial Pacific, north Pacific and western Atlantic oceans, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said Monday. Associated Press.

Services for former Lt. Gov. Nelson Kiyoshi Doi, who died May 16 in his home in Wai­mea, Hawaii, will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Oceanside Luau Grounds. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The University of Hawaii athletic department’s deficit for the just-concluded fiscal year is expected to be the biggest in its history. By the time the annual audit is concluded this fall, UH said it expects to report a deficit of $4.2 million-$4.4 million for the fiscal year that concluded June 30. Star-Advertiser.

Your home is your castle, but under a proposal put forth by City Councilmember Carol Fukunaga, your street might also turn into paid parking. KITV4.

City Council chairman Ernie Martin and Gov. David Ige met Tuesday to discuss the homeless situation in Kakaako. They’re trying to come up with a plan to move the homeless out of the area. KHON2.

Hawaii

Protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope say they are being unfairly targeted by the state’s proposed “emergency” rules restricting access to Mauna Kea’s summit. Tribune-Herald.

The attorney for the Mauna Kea Hui claiming to have been “denied access to exercise their religious, cultural and traditional practices on Mauna Kea” has sent a letter challenging the legalities to the Attorney General of the State of Hawaii, Douglas Chin. Big Island Video News.

The state is taking direct aim at the Thirty Meter Telescope protesters by proposing an emergency rule that prevents them from camping near the Mau­na­kea Visitor Information Station, TMT foes said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

A proposed “emergency rule” on the BLNR’s Friday meeting agenda is aimed at breaking up the encampment of protesters on Mauna Kea—the only thing stopping the Thirty-Meter Telescope from being built right now. Hawaii Independent.

State officials are proposing emergency rules that would prohibit camping and restrict nighttime access on Mauna Kea. Hawai‘i’s Board of Land and Natural Resources plans to vote on the issue this Friday. But opponents say the new rules unfairly target TMT protesters and would violate the rights of cultural practitioners. Hawaii Public Radio.

In addition to the state Land Board, the Office of Mauna Kea Management also is proposing new access rules for Mauna Kea, though they are not in direct response to the ongoing protests. Tribune-Herald.

The first observatory placed atop Mauna Kea will now be one of the first to come down, the University of Hawaii announced Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County could soon see more money from Washington to fight the coffee berry borer that has threatened signature coffee brands in Kona and elsewhere on the island. West Hawaii Today.

Delays in widening Queen Kaahumanu Highway are hitting the pocketbook of the county Department of Water Supply, which is trying to coordinate laying water lines with the roadwork. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council approved raising compensation to $2.25 million on Tuesday for private legal counsel to defend against a lawsuit in which the county faces millions of dollars in fines over its use of four injection wells at its Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui News.

Parade Staging Criminal Trespass Case Forwarded to Prosecutor. Maui Now.

A state lawmaker from south Maui plans to draft a bill for the next legislative session to appease both residents who oppose the burning of cane fields and the company that burns them. Associated Press.

The secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs said Tuesday during a special visit to Maui that he supports the building of a one-stop facility where Maui veterans can receive medical and psychological services and assistance with benefits. Maui News.

Kauai

More than seven months after his son was killed after being struck by a car and then hit again by a responding police officer, the father is still seeking answers. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Molokai ferry is moving ahead with plans to seek Hawaii Public Utilities Commission approval to operate on an "as needed" basis for voyages between Maui and Molokai. Maui News.

Teaching telescope to be idled, Mauna Kea access restricted as Hawaii prepares for Thirty Meter Telescope, VA promises improvements, Honolulu bird limit ruffles feathers, GOP hosts first fundraiser, Hawaii worst place to make a living, geothermal exploration expands, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hoku Kea telescope, courtesy University of Hawaii

Under pressure to reduce astronomy’s footprint on Mauna Kea, the University of Hawaii at Hilo plans to remove its Hoku Kea teaching telescope after wasting nearly $800,000 in federal grants on the project. Tribune-Herald.

The state is proposing to restrict public access to a large portion of Mauna Kea’s summit — the site of recent protests against construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. The Department of Land and Natural Resources drafted new “emergency rules” that would “protect against imminent peril to public safety and natural resources,” according to documents posted Monday on the department’s website. Tribune-Herald.

A new set of administrative rules could restrict use of and access to a one mile area near the Mauna Kea Access Road. The Board of Land and Natural Resources will vote on the proposed administrative rule changes during its Friday meeting on Oahu. Big Island Video News.

The local Republican Party hosted its first fundraiser for the 2016 election last week. It was a sell-out and party leaders say this is only the beginning.  Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Secretary of Labor and the U.S. Secretary of Veteran Affairs are in Hawaii to find out what issues our local veterans are facing – this time it’s jobs. KITV4.

Acknowledging the "crisis" last year over long patient wait times, the head of the Department of Veterans Affairs said the agency is "making progress, we're making improvements, but we're not where we need to be yet." Star-Advertiser.

Doctors Angle to Make Extra Money From Elite Access. A new concierge system offers access to quality care only to Hawaii patients who pay a premium, which places strain on other primary care doctors. Civil Beat.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Monday said abnormally warm waters that threaten the spread of major heat stress to Hawaiian reefs are likely to return. Garden Island.

A pair of Oahu-based shark experts — Kim Holland and Carl Meyer — are working on an analysis of shark behavior in Hawaiian waters. The report is expected to be released by the end of the year. Holland said he and Meyer are staying tight lipped on the subject until their report is finished. Garden Island.

Struggling members of Hawaii’s middle class aren’t imagining it: Hawaii really has become a very tough place to get by. In fact, it is the nation’s worst place to earn a living, according to a recently released money-rates.com survey. Civil Beat.

47 Years Later, Hawaii Senator Meets Birth Mother. Sen. Glenn Wakai reunited with Yoko Boughton, who lives in Okinawa. Civil Beat.

Sixteen medical marijuana dispensaries will open in Hawaii for the first time on July 15, 2016, but only eight license applications will be granted in the state. Pacific Business News.

Henk Rogers, the entrepreneur who made "Tetris" famous, announced Monday the launch of a new company that offers batteries for rooftop solar systems and a way to disconnect from the electric grid, something he says more Hawaii residents will want if NextEra Energy Inc. becomes their electric company. Star-Advertiser.

More than 20 years ago, video game entrepreneur Henk Rogers popularized “Tetris,” a strategic game that requires players to make efficient use of alternating puzzle pieces as they perpetually fall from the sky. Now, the 61-year-old hopes the work he’s been doing at his energy lab on the Big Island will help provide the pieces to solve a much more complex puzzle — energy independence. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

A bill that requires Oahu residents with 10 or more birds on a residential property to get a permit has some bird enthusiasts crying foul. Star-Advertiser.

The company that runs the city's landfill will not contest charges in a federal case involving the discharge of millions of gallons of contaminated stormwater into the ocean near Ko Olina Resort. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents would buy more local eggs if they could find them — and they’re willing to pay a premium for freshness, a recent food sustainability survey shows. That finding meshes nicely with plans for a solar-powered egg farm in central Oahu that would start with 300,000 hens and possibly expand to 1 million egg-layers. Civil Beat.

The limited supply of single-family homes on Oahu pushed the median price to $700,000 in June, tying the record set a year ago and placing homeownership out of reach for many first-time buyers. Star-Advertiser.

The number of condominiums sold on Oahu in June jumped by 22 percent even as the median sales price fell 6 percent compared to the same time last year, while the median price of a single-family home remained flat as the number of sales rose 7 percent, the Honolulu Board of Realtors said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

A week into Oahu's plastic bag ban, some folks are wondering why so many plastic bags are still being given out at island grocery checkout stands. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

After obtaining permits in March to begin exploring for geothermal energy under the dormant Hualalai volcano, researchers with the University of Hawaii are looking to more than double the number of survey sites included in the project. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Opinion: News that the organization Stop Cane Burning filed a lawsuit in the state’s new Environmental Court against the state Department of Health over–you guessed it–cane burning has moved at least one legislator to offer some proposals for weaning Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar (HC&S) off of the dirty, archaic method of harvesting sugar. And I wasn’t surprised to see that the legislator is state Representative Kaniela Ing, D–South Maui. MauiTime.

Kauai

The Kauai Police Department has completed its investigation into the January death of a pedestrian who was struck by a car and then struck a second time by a police officer who was responding to the scene. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe

At least two jobs will be saved and around five volunteer trips to Kahoolawe will be secured as the state Department of Health recently extended its restoration project for the cash-strapped Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission, which is facing layoffs and program cuts in light of a budget shortfall. Maui News.

Hawaii kills non-compete clause for high-tech workers, Tetris inventor goes off grid, Hanabusa to discuss Hawaiian homelands, open records less open, Waimanalo landfill could close, $1.2M land money not spent, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Solar Impulse 2 approaches Honolulu, courtesy Solar Impulse

Solar Impulse 2 made its first U.S. landing Friday in Hawaii, an event that highlights the state’s goals to create a clean energy sector that has “tremendous economic potential,” the head of the State Energy Office said after the solar-powered aircraft touched down at Kalaeloa Airport in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

A plane attempting to fly around the world, powered only by the sun, has landed safely in Hawai‘i. The 4,000 mile flight over the Pacific Ocean was the plane’s longest and most challenging leg. Hawaii Public Radio.

A plane powered by the sun’s rays has landed in Hawaii after a record-breaking five-day journey across the Pacific Ocean from Japan. Associated Press.

A bill that supporters believe will help attract high-tech workers to Hawaii and encourage growth in the local technology sector has been signed into law by Gov. David Ige. Act 158 prohibits technology companies from requiring their workers to enter into "noncompete" agreements as a condition of employment, a change that is supposed to make it easier for technology workers to move from job to job. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige signed several health-related bills Thursday as the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs unveiled an online service for insurance agents to file general liability and workers compensation coverage information for contractors and pest control operators. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige has approved a new exemption from the state open records law that will withhold government records from the public if releasing the information "would create a substantial and demonstrable risk of physical harm" to a person. Star-Advertiser.

The state would halt acceptance of new charter school applications for a year starting next fall under a proposed hiatus before the Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission — a move advocates say would stifle growth of the local charter movement. Star-Advertiser.

Kathryn Xian is determined to get a sex trafficking law in Hawaii, despite opposition from the governor and the Hono­lulu prosecutor. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Despite a multiyear waiting list for slips at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor, state operators have a vacancy rate above 10 percent, potentially costing the state tens of thousands of dollars annually. Star-Advertiser.

City Councilwoman Kymberly Pine hopes to expedite the closure of the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill, a contentious issue prompting years of frustration and concerns. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Pacific Health is no longer considering an acquisition of Wahiawa General Hospital. Star-Advertiser.

Will the Hammer Fall on Homeless Encampment in Kakaako? After an attack on a legislator, some homeless people expect their tent city to be dismantled. But so far, officials are showing restraint and acknowledging there’s no place else for many of the campers to go. Civil Beat.

Tetris video game inventor Henk Rogers has taken his home off the grid and will announce his new company, Blue Planet Energy Systems, on Monday. The new venture, which will sell and install battery systems for homes and businesses running on solar technology, plans to begin sales on Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

Hiking survey shows some Oahu trails bursting at the seams. KITV4.

Hawaii

Almost $1.2 million has accumulated in a special account since voters in 2012 approved setting aside money for nonprofits to compete for grants to help take care of land bought with open space funds. But the county has yet to award its first stewardship grant. West Hawaii Today.

At least two incidents of vehicular violence have been committed atop Mauna Kea against its protectors, even as state agencies accuse protectors of endangering public safety through their blockade. Hawaii Independent.

Encouraged by a sound study showing their noise will have minimal impact on neighbors, backers of the Kona Motorsport Park are pushing for the project to get higher priority at the county. West Hawaii Today.

Medical marijuana dispensaries could start operating on the Big Island next year, after Gov. David Ige this week indicated he would not be vetoing the bill authorizing them. Tribune-Herald.

The Big Island — specifically, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — saw a boom in visitor numbers in May as people flocked to catch a glimpse of a Madame Pele in action. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on the control or eradication of invasive rodents and mongooses in native Hawaiian ecosystems. Maui News.

The group Stop Cane Burning and three Maui residents Wednesday filed the first lawsuit in the newly established Maui County Environmental Court that challenged as unconstitutional the state Department of Health's issuance of a cane burning permit to Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. Maui News.

Kauai

A pair of proposed federal rules that spell out the process by which the 95-year-old Hawaiian Homes Commission Act should be administered is the topic of a public meeting in Anahola Tuesday night. Colleen Hanabusa, the former U.S. representative and state Senate president, is billed as the guest speaker. Garden Island.

A makeshift junkyard overtaking a stretch of undeveloped land held in trust for Native Hawaiians has grown so problematic that community leaders are binding together in an effort to put a stop to it. Garden Island.

Mauna Kea Thirty Meter Telescope stalemate drags on, Kauai mulls mayor-less government, Hawaii council to change law to suit judge's rezoning, Health Department wants comments on Maui cane burning, needles washing up at Keehi beach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Photovoltaic panels in Honolulu

Hawaiian Electric Co. has submitted a new plan to Hawaii regulators regarding rooftop solar, which includes raising the cost of new systems being installed. Pacific Business News.

If there are new challenges to the construction of telescopes on Mauna Kea, the expansion of Turtle Bay Resort or the Honolulu rail system’s impact on historic sites, they could be heard in Hawaii’s Environmental Court, which debuted Wednesday. Supporters hope it will bring more consistency to environmental rulings. Last year, opponents said judges designated to the Environmental Court would be prone to improper influence. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City Environmental Services Director Lori Kahikina acknowledged a shopping bag ban will be an adjustment for residents of Oahu, the last county in the state to implement an ordinance aimed at stepping up use of environmentally friendly checkout bags, but said the law is a compromise between environmentalists and businesses that have to pay more for compostable or paper bags. Star-Advertiser.

Several of the homeless people living in a warren of plywood- and pallet-hardened tents around the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center worry that Monday’s attack on state Rep. Tom Brower by two homeless teenagers will bring unwanted attention and force them to set up shop in someone else’s neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

Those who frequent Keehi Lagoon Beach Park say needles have been washing up on shore more often. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The County Council will fast-track changes to its concurrency laws to accommodate a Hilo District Court judge’s application to subdivide his property. Judge Harry Freitas and his wife, Sandra, want to rezone their 50-acre Mountain View property from agriculture 20 acres to agriculture 5 acres. The Windward Planning Commission had recommended against the rezoning. West Hawaii Today.

As University of Hawaii officials offer no timeline for reopening the Mauna Kea summit road and visitor center, some tour operators who rely on the mountain for business say that each day brings them closer to layoffs. West Hawaii Today.

Tourists and island residents hoping to visit Mauna Kea’s summit anytime soon likely will be left disappointed as the road closure is expected to continue through the end of the week. Tribune-Herald.

The Mauna Kea summit will remain closed to the public well into next week while officials ensure the safety of a road damaged last week during the protest that blocked construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, officials said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Many of the protesters opposed to plans for a giant telescope atop Mauna Kea came down from the mountain for a large gathering Wednesday around the King Kamehameha statue in Honolulu. Associated Press.

A Hawaiian mediation process known as ho‘oponopono is being offered to the first group of protesters arrested on Mauna Kea as an alternative to prosecution. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources approved more than $9,000 in fines for a Big Island tour company that operated unpermitted tours of the lava flow near Pu‘u ‘O‘o. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The state Department of Health is soliciting public comments regarding cane burning on Maui after residents called in earlier this month with concerns about a May 27 burn that enveloped South Maui, an official said. Maui News.

Sign-waving protesters line Piilani Highway near the entrance to a Monsanto farming operation in north Kihei on Wednesday morning. The protest came a day after a federal judge struck down the Maui County moratorium on genetically engineered crops passed by voters last fall. The judge ruled Tuesday that the ordinance was "invalid and unenforceable." Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday to form a council subcommittee to study a county manager form of government. Garden Island.

Members of the public testified Wednesday on a measure that would charge hikers who ignore warning signs for costs to rescue them if they get in trouble. Garden Island.

Judge strikes down Maui GMO ban, illegal immigrants can get Hawaii driver's licenses, Brower bruised in homeless fight, milk price drop threatens local dairy, Honolulu plastic bag ban begins, county faces ADA lawsuit over buses, park smoking ban, environmental court begins, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Anti-GMO rally in Kauai, courtesy photo

A federal judge ruled Tuesday that a Maui County ban on the cultivation of genetically engineered crops is pre-empted by federal and state law and invalid. Associated Press.

A federal judge Tuesday invalidated a Maui County ban on the cultivation of genetically engineered crops, ruling that the prohibition is pre-empted by federal and state law. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge has invalidated Maui County’s moratorium on genetically engineered crops that voters approved last fall. Judge Susan Mollway said in a ruling filed Tuesday that the ordinance is “invalid and unenforceable” because it is preempted by state and federal law. That’s similar to the reasoning that Judge Barry Kurren relied upon to strike down both Hawaii County’s partial ban on genetically modified farming and Kauai County’s pesticide disclosure law last year. Civil Beat.

According to a federal judge, the initiative to put a hold on the use of GMO's in Maui County gets trumped by federal and state law. KITV4.

A federal judge today ruled that the Maui GMO Initiative passed by Maui voters in November 2014 is invalid because the county does not have the authority over the matter.  The order states that the County of Maui GMO ordinance is preempted and exceeds the county’s authority to impose fines. Maui Now.

Anti-GMO activists, who celebrated when the moratorium passed in November, are now vowing to keep fighting after a judge invalidated the ban on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has signed a bill into law that creates a limited purpose driver’s license for people who don’t have documents to prove they are legally allowed to live in the U.S. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has signed a bill that dedicates nearly $3 million of general funds to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs over the next two years. Civil Beat.

Among bills Gov. David Ige signed into law Tuesday are measures requiring members of certain councils, boards and commissions to undergo training in Native Hawaiian customs and rights; making it lawful to use human remains for traditional Hawaiian cultural burial practices; and creating a new exception for people without proof of U.S. residency to get driver's licenses. Star-Advertiser.

Governor David Ige signed a bill into law this morning that makes it mandatory for certain state councils, boards and commissions to attend a course on Native Hawaiian customs and rights to be administered by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Maui Now.

Hawai’i’s new Environmental Court system will be activated statewide July 1st.   It’s only the second specialized court of its kind in the nation, but has broad jurisdiction on almost everything dealing with the environment. Hawaii Public Radio.

A ban on smoking at state parks and beaches goes into effect Wednesday, expanding on another prohibition already in place in certain city and county parks in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Last week was former Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s 77th birthday and the longtime Hawaii politician was supposed to be celebrating it in part with the long-awaited unveiling of his official state portrait. Instead, Abercrombie’s space in the gallery of ex-governors that line the walls in the current governor’s office is still empty. Civil Beat.

The West Coast is the best coast when it comes to Hawaii tourism's visitor markets. Total visitor spending from the U.S. West jumped 19.9 percent in May to $447.4 million, up from $373.2 million in May 2014, according to data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A day after he was assaulted while taking photos at a large Kakaako homeless encampment, state Rep. Tom Brower insisted the attack was unprovoked. But the family of two teens involved said it came after the lawmaker laughed at the boys. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Tom Brower Suffers Facial Injuries in Altercation at Homeless Camp. Civil Beat.

After three years of warnings, it's finally here. The city's plastic bag ban becomes law Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Army divers said initial examination of the sunken fishing vessel Judy K at Pier 16 shows it is intact, but the earliest they could attempt to float the partially submerged 77-foot boat for removal would be September. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A Maui man on a mission to improve access for the disabled across the state is on the brink of settling a federal lawsuit against Hawaii County government on allegations the county’s Hele-On bus system isn’t compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Agriculture, bowing to pressure from Meadow Gold Dairies, unanimously approved a 23 percent drop in the state-set wholesale milk price paid to the last locally owned dairy. Hawaii island's Cloverleaf Dairy owner Ed Boteilho Jr. said he may be forced to close his dairy. Star-Advertiser.

Citing safety concerns, University of Hawaii kept the road to Mauna Kea’s summit closed above the 9,200-foot elevation Monday as workers searched for signs of damage following last week’s Thirty Meter Telescope protest. Tribune-Herald.

A new environmental court makes its debut today with the task of handling cases that involve the often complex and specialized rules governing human interaction with lands and waterways. Big Island judges have been selected to hear cases that are now being assigned to an environmental schedule — proceedings which in the past were mixed with other criminal and civil matters on court dockets. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ridao retiring as director of Housing and Human Concerns. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County Council Vice Chair Ross Kagawa is standing by a comment he made during a recent interview that said a potential upside of the new bed-and-breakfast ordinance is that it could give locals a chance to buy properties that can no longer be rented out by tourists. Garden Island.

Kaiser Permanente is planning to open a clinic on Kauai early next year, with the goal of providing subscribers with greater access to doctors and reducing patient wait times. Garden Island.