Grim pension fund news sends state government seeking more taxes, big payout for Kealoha despite FBI probe, state to appeal Thirty Meter Telescope ruling, PUC rejects Hawaii Electric $340M smart-grid plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Elephants at the Honolulu Zoo © 2017 All Hawaii News

Nonresidents 13 and older who visit the Honolulu Zoo will need to pay $2 more starting next year under a proposal by Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration. Star-Advertiser.

The shortfall in Hawaii’s public employees pension fund mushroomed to $12.44 billion in fiscal 2016, setting the stage for more finger-pointing in the Legislature and dealing a financial blow to taxpayers who will have to dig deep to pay for it. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers this year are eyeing the possibility of Hawaii joining 34 other states that are subject to an internet sales tax on purchases from online retailers such as Amazon.com. Pacific Business News.

State tax collections are below Council on Revenue projections this year and lawmakers are looking elsewhere to make up the difference. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state tax department needs extra security guards, armored car services and new surveillance equipment to prepare for a surge in cash payments to cover the taxes paid to the state for medical marijuana sales. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. was sent back to the drawing board on its $340 million smart-grid plan by state regulators. Star-Advertiser.

Food producers, service providers and consumers heard highlights Monday from a new report about Hawaii’s reliance on imported food. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Although he’s the target of an ongoing federal corruption investigation, Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha is expected to receive a substantial cash payout as part of a retirement agreement being negotiated with the city. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha isn't just retiring under pressure. He's getting a hefty payout to walk away. Hawaii News Now.

Mainland police department eyes local recruits as HPD grapples with leadership change. KHON2.

The Oahu Community Correctional Center needs a new home and officials are looking closely at Aiea, as one of the options. KITV.

Park Hotels & Resorts Inc., the real estate investment trust recently spun off by Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc., may develop a new hotel or time-share tower at the iconic Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, which is the largest in the Hilton chain of hotels and the biggest resort in Hawaii, Pacific Business News has learned.

The state agency overseeing Kakaako redevelopment has approved new rules for its parks, including areas that have frequently been the sites of homeless encampments. Civil Beat.

Programs that keep people from falling into homelessness and provide access to permanent housing top this year’s legislative priority list compiled by Partners in Care, a collaboration among 35 nonprofits, advocates and government agencies seeking to end homelessness on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.


Hawaii

The state will appeal a Hilo Circuit Court ruling that vacated its consent to the Thirty Meter Telescope’s sublease with the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A Native Hawaiian educator said Mauna Kea is the realm of akua, or gods, while testifying against the proposed Thirty Meter Telescope on Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Three decades since it was first envisioned and four years after a new owner took over, a mixed-use development along Hina-Lani Street mauka of Kaloko Business Park is again moving forward. West Hawaii Today.

New Hawaii Police Chief Paul Ferreira used the occasion of a public oath reaffirmation ceremony Monday to deliver a brief State of the Department address. Tribune-Herald.

A standing-room-only crowd packed onto the mezzanine area of the South Hilo police station on Monday morning, to watch a new police chief and deputy chief take over as the heads of the Hawaii County Police Department. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Matson Foundation has given the A Hui Hou Fund with a $100,000 grant to augment widespread community support for displaced sugar workers on Maui. Maui Now.

The number of rooftop solar permits issued for Maui, Molokai and Lanai dropped 47 percent in 2016 compared with the year earlier. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

There were 1,113 students on the first day census at Kauai Community College provided by the University of Hawaii Institutional Research. This represents a 2.6 percent gain over the spring 2016 semester of 1,085 students. Garden Island.

Two of three baby nene photographed grazing in lush grass alongside the Hanalei River last month were killed by cars as they attempted to cross a highway. Garden Island.

Hanapepe librarian Karen Ikemoto retires after 41 years of serving Kauai’s community. Garden Island.

Hawaii agriculture at issue, lawmakers attend mainland biotech ag conference, Ethics Commission gets complaint against OHA member, Obama honored with Hanauma Bay bench, Kenoi opens holding company, Kauai council to mull golf course alcohol veto, Maui considers committees, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Planting in Hawaii, Monsanto Facebook advertisement

The state department in charge of managing Hawaii’s agricultural resources has been operating for years with one-third of its staff positions left vacant, prompting House Finance Committee Chairwoman Sylvia Luke to threaten to eliminate the positions altogether. Star-Advertiser.

While members of Hawaii’s House Finance Committee were debating the upcoming budget for the Department of Agriculture during a hearing at the state Capitol on Friday, key lawmakers with oversight over agricultural policy were 4,000 miles away in Baton Rouge, La., at an ag conference sponsored and paid for by major corporations, including biotech giants Dow AgroSciences, Monsanto and Syngenta, which grow seed corn and conduct crop trials in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Your Guide To Tracking The 2017 Hawaii Legislature. The islands’ 25 senators and 51 representatives will back in action before you know it. Keeping up with them is everybody’s business. Civil Beat.

A state Ethics Commission investigation is looking into whether Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee and former state lawmaker Peter Apo conducted his private business out of his taxpayer-funded OHA office. Hawaii News Now.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii says its appeal to Hawaii residents to withdraw funds and close their accounts with First Hawaiian Bank in an act of solidarity with Dakota Access Pipeline protesters has resulted in nearly $1.37 million being divested from Hawaii’s largest bank, whose majority shareholder, BNP Paribas, is backing the pipeline project. Pacific Business News.

Graduates of the University of Phoenix-Hawaii have the highest average salary compared to graduates of other colleges and universities in the Islands, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard. Pacific Business News.

Online publication Education Week ranked Hawaii 25th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia in areas such as a student’s chance for success, K-12 achievement, early foundations, adult outcomes, status change and equity. Garden Island.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha on Friday agreed to retire amid a federal investigation of civil rights abuses and corruption. Associated Press.

Is HPD Chief’s Departure Just The Beginning Of An ‘Ugly’ Mess? Chief Louis Kealoha’s retirement package is being worked out and approved in secret before it’s known whether he committed serious wrongdoing. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha has agreed to retire. The announcement came on Friday after the Honolulu Police Commission emerged from an hour-long executive session, the second closed door meeting in a week. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state and Waikiki stakeholders have adopted new guidelines to manage conflict over the increase of commercial beach umbrellas occupying space on Waikiki’s public beaches. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s newest homeless shelter opened its doors Sept. 28 with the intent to transition its clients into permanent housing within 90 days. Civil Beat.

With less than three weeks to go, the organizers of this year’s annual head count of Oahu’s homeless population still need about 350 volunteers to avoid last year’s poor coordination. Star-Advertiser.

Obama honored with bench at Hanauma Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Francis Keala, a former Honolulu police chief and community volunteer who served on numerous boards, including the Kamehameha Schools/Bishop Estate board as an interim trustee when most of its members were removed, died Saturday. He was 86. Star-Advertiser.

A&B to bring property management of 30 Hawaii commercial buildings in-house. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Mayor Kirk Caldwell was brought into Honolulu Hale by former Mayor Mufi Hannemann and although they are not a team today, they remain linked by a rail project steadily growing more expensive and controversial. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Native Hawaiian astronomer Paul Coleman says the Thirty Meter Telescope would not just help unlock the mysteries of the universe, but also provide him a link to his ancestors. Tribune-Herald.

While defending the Thirty Meter Telescope in Hawaii, project manager Gary Sanders says he also is pursuing permits needed to build in the Canary Islands. Tribune-Herald.

Former Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi has started his own company, Pacific Business News has learned.

The land under the Hawaii Tribune-Herald newspaper building in Hilo and an adjacent property has been acquired for $3.7 million by Giampaolo Boschetti of San Francisco, according to state records. Star-Advertiser.

Local political powerhouse George Yokoyama has been called many things — good and bad — in his 90 years. And now he’s being called a Living Treasure of Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

With Maui County Council members questioning the responsibilities and membership of proposed standing committees, a public hearing has been called for 1:30 p.m. Jan. 16 in Council Chambers in Wailuku. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. produced 35.4 percent of its power from renewable energy in 2015, up slightly from the previous year but the second highest percentage in the state behind the Big Island’s 48.7 percent, according to the state Energy Office in its annual Hawaii report. Maui News.

There is much discussion about affordable/workforce housing in Maui County. The Department of Housing and Human Concerns is also very concerned and is working on ways to encourage the production of housing and to help families make homeownership a reality. Maui News.

A former Maui police officer who said he felt “disgusted and ashamed” was sentenced Friday to a 60-day jail term for sexually exposing himself to women and a youth in Pukalani parking lots. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho’s veto of Bill 2635 to allow alcohol sales on Wailua Golf Course via roving concessions is on the agenda for Wednesday’s Kauai County Council meeting. Garden Island.

Kauai businesses that specialize in selling and renting mopeds are gearing up for a new law that went into effect at the start of this year. Garden Island.

Residents and business owners on Kauai have spent thousands of dollars in the past year dealing with rose-ringed parakeets, an invasive bird that’s gained a foothold on the island. Garden Island.

Legislative panel beats on Ige budget, political neophyte named to House seat, Hirono to meet ‘Mad Dog’ Mattis, Ige campaign manager steps down to be considered for judgeship, coffee berry borer reaches Maui, OHA CEO Crabbe vows to keep job, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

House Finance, Senate Ways and Means on Ige budget 01/05/17 courtesy House Majority

Gov. David Ige’s proposed budget came under attack Thursday during its first public vetting of the year, with House Finance Committee Chairwoman Sylvia Luke calling it “borderline schizophrenic.” Star-Advertiser.

The chair of the House Finance Committee is so disappointed with the governor’s budget that she suggested the administration withdraw it and start over. Civil Beat.

During a Thursday briefing to the Legislature, the Council on Revenues said that despite a 3.3 percent increase in visitor arrivals, visitor spending in Hawaii is up only 1.3 percent, which could be a factor in the slower growth in tax revenue. Pacific Business News.

State lawmaker pushes for taxing online sales. KITV.

House Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke says someone in the leadership of the public employees pension fund should resign after the fund posted what she called a “pathetic” investment return of negative 1 percent during the fiscal year that ended June 30. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has still not found a chief labor negotiator even though he is involved in sensitive talks with six public-sector unions. Civil Beat.

Dean Nishina is officially serving as the state consumer advocate. Star-Advertiser.

Dean Nishina, a former auditor and financial consultant for Arthur Andersen & Co. LLP, has been tapped as the executive director for the Hawaii state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' Division of Consumer Advocacy, the state said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

One state agency is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to beef up security. These changes will be made ahead of the opening of medical marijuana dispensaries across the state. KHON2.

Attorney Keith Hiraoka has stepped down from his post as campaign manager for Gov. David Ige in an attempt to mitigate any conflicts of interest as he seeks a judgeship on the Intermediate Court of Appeals. Star-Advertiser.

The Judicial Selection Commission on Wednesday released a list of nominees for a vacancy on Hawaii’s Intermediate Court of Appeals. Civil Beat.

What Would ‘Mad Dog’ Mattis Mean For Military-Heavy Hawaii? Former Marine Gen. James Mattis is likely headed for confirmation as defense secretary. He meets Friday with Sen. Mazie Hirono. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund — which helps pay for funeral, medical and other crime victims’ costs — has received its largest single payment of $150,000 as the result of a settlement in a corporate tax case. Star-Advertiser.

As traditional commercial fishing is threatening fish populations worldwide, U.S. officials are working on a plan to expand fish farming into federal waters around the Pacific Ocean. Associated Press.

Teachers association leader questions strategic plan. HSTA says three-year outline doesn’t address ways to fix education. Garden Island.

The man who thwarted an effort to hold an election for Native Hawaiians is the newest trustee of the public agency that provided $2.6 million for the failed self-governance vote. Kelii Akina was elected in November as an at-large Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee, unseating Haunani Apoliona, who was a trustee since 1996. Associated Press.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees, aligned under new leadership, has decided to enter into negotiations to buy out the contract of CEO Kamana‘opono Crabbe. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii regulators have rejected a plan by Hawaiian Electric Co. and AES Hawaii to expand the state’s only coal-run electricity generation plant. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is looking for developers to build wind projects on Oahu before a federal tax credit for wind power expires in 2019. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Planning Commission has approved an amendment to the city’s land-use law that spells out how much affordable housing developers must provide if they want to be eligible for a special temporary permit that provides height and density advantages for building near planned rail stations. Civil Beat.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has closed on two construction loans totaling more than $372 million for the development of its Aeo and Ke Kilohana mixed-use condominium high-rise tower projects currently underway at its 60-acre Ward Village master-planned community in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako. Pacific Business News.

City officials say they believe about 137,400 gallons of untreated sewage spilled out of a broken force main pipe and onto vacant land near the Ko Olina Golf Course Monday and Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s chief of police will get the chance to address members of the Honolulu Police Commission when it meets Friday. KHON2.

The Honolulu Police Commission will hold a closed-door executive session on Friday to determine the future of police chief Louis Kealoha with the Honolulu Police Department. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Chris Todd will become the newest — and one of the youngest — members of the state Legislature after being appointed Thursday to replace Rep. Clift Tsuji, who died Nov. 15. Tribune-Herald.

Governor Ige has appointed Chris Todd to fill late Rep. Clift Tsuji’s seat at the State House. He was chosen from a list of three Democratic Party candidates. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige has tapped Chris Todd to replace the late Rep. Clift Tsuji in the state House of Representatives representing Hilo, following a party selection process that raised questions about potential improprieties. Star-Advertiser.

With the unanimous confirmation Thursday of seven department heads, the County Council gave its stamp of approval to the majority of Mayor Harry Kim’s new Cabinet. West Hawaii Today.

Work is underway on the final phases of the Komohana Street reconstruction project, which now will extend through mid-January. Tribune-Herald.

Kona coffee growers say this year’s harvest is mostly in, and it’s smaller than usual, but with more high-quality beans that fetch higher prices. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The Maui County Council may have ironed out its main leadership issues Monday, but with a public hearing on standing committees still to come, the important work of vetting new bills cannot begin yet. Maui News.

The coffee berry borer was detected in December 2016 on a coffee farm in Kīpahulu on Maui. Maui Now.

State agriculture officials reported Thursday that they had confirmed the presence of the coffee berry borer at two locations on the Hana side of Maui, in Kipahulu, directly across the channel from Hawi. Hawaii News Now.

Twenty-eight lots across 86 acres near the Maui Motorsports Park in Pulehunui in Maui’s only heavy industrial zoned subdivision hit the market Tuesday, island real estate officials said. Maui News.

Kauai

State considering plan to build a $500K crossing for Hanakapiai Stream. Garden Island.

State expects $155M less in revenues, OHA to oust CEO Crabbe, tax refund delay, Lingle celebrates Trump win, is returning to Hawaii, Honolulu Police Commission mulls chief's fate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Dolphin encounter at Waikoloa resort © 2017 All Hawaii News

Animal rights activists are celebrating the news that the first U.S. resort developed by Atlantis Resorts — at Ko Olina — won’t include captive dolphins. Star-Advertiser.

The state expects to collect about $155 million less in tax revenues than a panel of economists, accountants and others had previously projected for fiscal year 2017, which ends June 30. Civil Beat.

A panel of experts that estimates how much the state will collect in taxes each year revised its projection significantly downward Wednesday, which means state government will have about $155 million less to spend this year than Gov. David Ige’s administration had expected. Star-Advertiser.

We’re just days into the new year and the outlook is not looking too good for our economy. Predictions are showing less money coming into the state and it’s no small chunk of change. KHON2.

The state is again warning taxpayers that they may need to wait as many as 16 weeks for a refund check after filing a Hawaii state tax return. The delays are part of an increased effort to prevent fraud that was launched in 2015. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii is asking the state Legislature for additional appropriations of about $29 million for each of the next two fiscal years to add to its annual operating budget of about $1.1 billion. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers crafting the state budget are questioning why the University of Hawaii hasn’t tapped into more than $6 million sitting in a special fund earmarked for repair and maintenance at the UH Cancer Center, which has been plagued with money troubles. Star-Advertiser.

A big change could be coming to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs -- and it won't be cheap. The OHA Board of Trustees have offered to buy CEO Kamana'opono Crabbe out of his contract. KITV.

Under new leadership, trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs have voted to buy out the contract of CEO Kamana’opono Crabbe. Civil Beat.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle offered her own analysis of Donald Trump’s surprise victory to a crowd of about 400 Republicans who gathered at the Koolau Ballrooms at Koolau Golf Course in Kaneohe on Wednesday for a pre-inaugural gala in celebration of the president-elect. Star-Advertiser.

Some 300 people gathered in Kaneohe to celebrate the upcoming presidency of Donald J. Trump. The Hawaii Republican Party's Pre-Inauguration Gala also drew former Gov. Linda Lingle, who was the featured speaker at the event. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s job status in the wake of being named the target of an FBI criminal investigation remains up in the air after the Honolulu Police Commission met behind closed doors for two hours Wednesday, then recessed until Friday without making a decision on his fate. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Commission emerged from a two-hour closed-door session Wednesday without making a decision on the status of Police Chief Louis Kealoha who is embroiled in a federal corruption investigation. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Commission met behind closed doors Wednesday to discuss the status of Chief Louis Kealoha, who surrendered his gun and badge and went on paid leave after being notified he’s the target of a federal investigation. Associated Press.

The future of Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha could be determined this Friday. That’s when the Honolulu Police Commission will reconvene to make a decision on the Chief’s employment status. Hawaii Pubic Radio.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha is on paid leave while federal officials carry out a corruption investigation.  The Honolulu Police Commission decided Wednesday afternoon to extend Chief Kealoha's leave of absence indefinitely. KITV.

Honolulu’s chief of police is on leave indefinitely. Max Sword, chair of the Honolulu Police Commission, also said he expects a decision Friday on Louis Kealoha’s future with the Honolulu Police Department. KHON2.

================

The Honolulu Planning Commission has approved an amendment to the city’s land-use law that spells out how much affordable housing developers must provide if they want to be eligible for a special temporary permit that provides height and density advantages for building near planned rail stations. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council members are asking the state to allow the tax for Oahu's multibillion-dollar rail project to cover operating costs as well as affordable housing efforts. Associated Press.

Honolulu’s departments of Design and Construction and of Facility Maintenance are credited for surpassing the repaving goal for 2016 by completing 332 lane miles on Oahu. Civil Beat.

The 1st Circuit Court of Hawaii has approved the final closure of the Estate of James Campbell, once one of Hawaii’s largest private landowners and the initial developer of the City of Kapolei in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Homeless Count Volunteers Sought. Organizers are gearing up for the annual count of homeless people, but they are facing a serious shortage of volunteers. Civil Beat.

Honolulu is one of the least affordable counties to rent a home, according to a new report by Attom Data Solutions that found renters need to spend nearly three quarters of their monthly income on rent. Pacific Business News.

The state board overseeing development in Kakaako approved a permit to build a seventh condominium tower at Ward Village in a 5-4 vote Wednesday that includes a deadline to complete construction of a public plaza. Star-Advertiser.

The red garbage collection trucks of Rolloffs Hawaii will keep rolling for its roughly 2,000 Oahu customers, but under new ownership after a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge approved a sale of the struggling company Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Council members postponed a bill Wednesday that would strengthen restrictions on the purchase of alcohol after discussing whether certain ceremonial activities should be exempt. Tribune-Herald.

With Mayor Harry Kim shouldering all the blame for a perceived misstep, and dozens of people supporting his nomination, Corporation Counsel nominee Joe Kamelamela on Wednesday survived his first step toward confirmation. West Hawaii Today.

An uneasy discussion concerning the next Corporation Counsel for the County of Hawaii was held in Hilo on Wednesday morning. Big Island Video News.

Last year was a deadly one on Big Island roads, with more official traffic fatalities than 2014 and 2015 combined. Tribune-Herald.

After years of delays, the mauka boat ramp at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor will finally receive a much-needed upgrade. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Sales have begun for an 86-acre, 28-lot industrial park in Central Maui, ranging in price from $16 to $24 per square foot, the broker handling the sales of the lots told Pacific Business News.

Sales began today at the Pulehunui Industrial Park, located midway between Kahului and Kīhei near Hawaiian Cement and the National Guard Armory in Puʻunēnē. Maui Now.

A national leader of health savings accounts and health policy will discuss better options for the state health care system and the public-private partnership involving the county’s three public hospitals at a lecture Jan. 11 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Maui News.

Last Denny’s restaurant in Maui County closes. Maui Watch.

Kauai

As the newly elected chair of the Hawaii Prosecuting Attorney’s Association, Justin Kollar hopes to continue working for productive relationships among key players in law enforcement. Garden Island.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management will hold a public hearing on proposed updates to the State Water Projects Plan at the Lihue Civic Center, Meeting Rooms 2A and 2B, at 6 p.m. Tuesday. Garden Island.

Almost month after volunteer cleanup, portion of trash heap to be cleared. Garden Island.

Teachers cleared for free trips, Honolulu Police Commission to discuss police chief's fate today, counties submit legislative priorities, new Maui council leadership, $18M upgrades for Kauai airport, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ocean entry viewing from the Kalapana side. National Park Service Sept. 20, 2016

A new viewing area for the Kamokuna lava ocean entry opened Tuesday after two days of closure because of a New Year’s Eve lava delta collapse. Tribune-Herald.

Public school teachers may resume traveling free as chaperones on educational field trips without violating ethics laws, under an agreement between the teachers union and the State Ethics Commission announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Under an agreement between the state teachers union and the state Ethics Commission, teachers serving as chaperones on school-related trips can continue to have their travel costs paid for by private tour companies. Civil Beat.

A larger county share of the tax on hotel and vacation rentals, liability protection for lifeguards, ambulances for Hawaii and Kauai counties and a greater say in union negotiations are the top priorities for county governments going into the 2017 session of the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Following a New Year’s fireworks accident that killed a woman in Kapolei, state lawmakers will likely reconsider boosting inspections of the shipping containers that authorities say are used to smuggle in most of Oahu’s illegal pyrotechnics. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents concerned about pesticide use by major agriculture companies on the islands are planning a push to strengthen regulation over chemicals they fear harm their health. Associated Press.

Commentary: Hold onto your wallet, because this coming legislative session looks like it may be a rough ride! Civil Beat.

A robust Hawaii economy pushed down statewide bankruptcy filings in 2016 for the sixth straight year with few signs that the trend is going to reverse anytime soon. Star-Advertiser.

A possible contender for president in 2020 is helping U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono bring in campaign funds. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Both Mayor Kirk Caldwell and newly installed City Council Chairman Ron Menor called finding the funding to complete the city’s 20-mile rail line their top priority over the next few years. Star-Advertiser.

Although they spoke two hours apart and in separate locations, the mayor of Honolulu and the new chairman of the City Council seemed at times to be reading from similar scripts. Civil Beat.

Kirk Caldwell will serve another 4 years as mayor of Honolulu after being sworn in today at Ala Moana Beach Park. KITV.

The Honolulu Police Commission will meet Wednesday to discuss the future of Police Chief Louis Kealoha, who has been on paid leave since receiving a "target letter" from the FBI last month. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Commission’s plan to discuss the fate of Police Chief Louis Kealoha in a closed-door session is being questioned by attorneys who often represent the media and the public interest. Civil Beat.

In June 2013, two homicide detectives from the Honolulu Police Department were assigned to investigate a busted taillight at the Kahala home of their boss. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro announced this week that Katherine Kealoha, who is the subject of an ongoing public corruption investigation, will be part of a new initiative that aims to crack down on criminals who target tourists. Civil Beat.

The city might need to spend millions to replace two force main lines in Ko Olina after one broke this week near the site of a break in late November, spilling tens if not hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage, city Environmental Services Director Lori Kahikina said Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Gene Ward insists there is nothing unconstitutional about a map he published identifying locations of suspected homeless people in his East Honolulu district, but Ward nevertheless has asked the state attorney general for a legal opinion. Star-Advertiser.

Marine Corps Base Hawaii cancels 2017 air show featuring Blue Angels. KHON2.

Honolulu ranked No. 48 among cities with the most bed bugs in 2016, according to pest control company Orkin. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Thirty Meter Telescope project manager answers questions from opponents; Gary Sanders will continue his testimony today during ongoing contested case hearing. Tribune-Herald.

A long-awaited traffic project in Puna began construction Tuesday. The Hawaii Department of Transportation State Highways Division will be installing a traffic signal at the intersection of Shower Drive, Pohaku Drive and Highway 130. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii's Kona International Airport is now officially named the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, in honor of the Challenger astronaut who grew up nearby on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

When the bailiff declares Division 2 of the 3rd Circuit Court in session Tuesday, for the first time in 12 1/2 years — with the exception of vacations — the presiding judge will not be Glenn S. Hara. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Monday morning’s inauguration of the new Maui County Council was “the easy part,” but now it’s time to get down to business, council members said following the celebration. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member Mike White regained his position as chairman Monday late evening during a contentious first council meeting that included 75 testifiers and five failed nominations for other chairpersons. Maui News.

Kauai

About $18 million worth of improvements and upgrades to Lihue Airport is slated to be completed by the end of 2019, according to the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Garden Island.

An organization on Kauai is keeping a critically endangered plant from going extinct. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ige's political future uncertain, minimum wage rises, new moped laws, changing leadership on Honolulu council, complaint filed in Maui council reorganization, Tulsi again named 'rising star,' more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige addresses 2016 Hawaii Democratic Party rally © 2017 All Hawaii News

When Democratic Gov. David Ige runs for re-election in 2018, his political fate may depend on how successful he is at appeasing some key interest groups over the next two years, and how much progress he can make in addressing issues such as homelessness that have emerged as top-tier voter concerns. Star-Advertiser.

David Ige won his upset victory in 2014 to become governor largely because he was not Neil Abercrombie, the incumbent governor who had enraged much of the Hawaii Democratic Party. Star-Advertiser.

More ‘Star’ Chatter On Tulsi Gabbard. The Hawaii congresswoman is one of seven “rising Democratic stars” in the U.S. House of Representatives. Civil Beat.

Press Release: The Hawaii State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR) today announced that per Act 82, Session Laws of Hawaii (2014), the minimum wage for most employers will increase to $9.25 per hour beginning on Jan. 1, 2017.

The new year brings new rules for moped owners in Hawaii. Starting Jan. 1, owners will have to pay for annual vehicle registration and safety inspections, as well as for license plates. Hawaii News Now.

The 116-year-old Estate of James Campbell, once among Hawaii’s largest and most influential land companies, has quietly and officially dissolved — leaving behind a legacy of development that includes the city of Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has received a waiver from the federal government allowing it to stop offering Affordable Care Act health insurance policies for small businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu
Honolulu City Councilman Ron Menor is expected to take the helm of the Council today, pushing colleague Ernie Martin out of a post he’s held since June 2011. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council will undergo new organizational changes this week. Councilman Ron Menor will replace Ernie Martin, who served as chair for more than five years. Councilmember Joey Manahan is expected take over the powerful budget committee, replacing Ann Kobayashi. Hawaii News Now.

Keith Kaneshiro was sworn in Monday for his fifth term as city prosecutor, vowing to make his office more accessible to the media and to crack down on crimes against tourists. Hawaii News Now.

City Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro was sworn in for his second term Monday, giving him four more years in office with new plans to tackle crime in Hawaii. KHON2.

The Plot Thickens In The Honolulu Police Chief Conspiracy Case. An investigation into a broken taillight at Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s house raises more questions about alleged corruption. Civil Beat.

Honolulu rent prices increased this month for both one- and two-bedroom units compared to the year ago month, and was deemed the No. 11 most expensive city in America according to a new report by Zumper. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Mayor Harry Kim says he will hold a community meeting with Panaewa residents before moving forward with a planned composting facility. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island will start 2017 with two state-level leadership positions still waiting to be filled. West Hawaii Today.

After adopting revisions in mid-December, the Hamakua Community Development Plan’s steering committee sent the document to Hawaii County for review. Tribune-Herald.

It was a banner year for home sales on Hawaii Island in 2016, with growth projected to carry over into 2017. Tribune-Herald.

Kim administration seeks Honomu residents’ input on fate of banyan trees. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action filed a complaint last week with the Office of Information Practices, requesting an investigation and ruling on “egregious violations” of state “Sunshine Laws” by Maui Council Chair Mike White. Garden Island.

Opinion: I gotta hand it to Maui County Councilmember Mike White: he’ll do what he needs to do to maintain power. MauiTime.

The Maui Academy of Performing Arts has purchased a 35,622-square-foot office building on Main Street in Wailuku on Maui for about $5.6 million, the broker that was part of the deal confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Kansas visitors Mike Hutchison and his wife spent New Year’s Eve in an unexpected setting — stuck between two landslides on Hana Highway with about 75 other people. Maui News.

Kauai

General Plan addresses a growing island community. Natural growth key factor as General Plan attempts to address needs of expanding community. Garden Island.

Kauai sees rise in visitors. Garden Island.

A solar farm that is slated to generate about 5 percent of the island’s energy is set to power up early this year, according to representatives from the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has awarded a grant to support a series of farmer workshops later this month for Hawaiians interested in starting or expanding farming operations. Garden Island.

Fishing limits could raise ahi prices, Superferry redux, theft charges for Maui employee who built kitchen, coffee picker shortage, more physical exams for schoolkids, Gorak PUC conflict investigated, Royal Hawaiian Gold Club must clean up, sugar plantation equipment heads to auction, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Suisan Fish Market

While prices for ahi are relatively stable this holiday season, some say they could rise next year as fishing limits tighten. Hawaii News Now.

Superferry dreams face cost, public opinion hurdles. Lawmakers approved $50,000 in May to study a possible inter-island ferry, and the state Department of Transportation received a $500,000 grant from the federal Maritime Administration to hire consultants to explore potential routes and boats. Associated Press.

It’s been almost 10 years since protesters rallied against the Superferry in Nawiliwili, but some Kauai residents have their reservations and optimisms about an interisland ferry system that may reemerge, pending a state study. Garden Island.

A new law will take effect this upcoming school year that will double the number of physical examinations Hawaii students will need to get in order to keep attending public school. KHON2.

Two state lawmakers are raising red flags over the legal work Tom Gorak was doing on the side while serving full-time as general counsel of the state Public Utilities Commission. Civil Beat.

Newly elected U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has decided to get closer to her constituents by moving out of the federal building complex across from Honolulu Harbor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii No. 8 For Electoral Integrity. The integrity of America’s electoral system lags far behind other Western democracies, according to a new report. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige gave his support Thursday to two young men who want to make the world a better place. Andrew Tisba and Manuel Frederick of Let’s All Connect say they are on a journey to visit all 50 states. Civil Beat.

A crowd of mostly tourists cheered as President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle arrived at a Waikiki restaurant Thursday night. Associated Press.

Oahu

The owners of the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club must provide bathrooms, parking and trash receptacles for hikers of Maunawili Falls Trail or face losing their permit to operate the 18-hole course, the city said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A community association that owns the private marina in Hawaii Kai wants to more permanently inhibit sand from migrating off Portlock Beach into the boat entry channel by constructing a $2 million rock groin. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu building that houses the now-infamous restaurant that posted a sign in its window saying that voters of President-Elect Donald Trump couldn't eat there is up for sale, the broker handling the sale confirmed to Pacific Business News Thursday.

Hawaii

A bumper crop is usually good news for Big Island coffee farmers, but this year, many are facing a severe shortage of pickers. Businesses in both Kona and Kau are losing thousands of dollars. Hawaii News Now.

This past July, Governor David Ige signed a new law that creates a 10-year marine reserve across a three and a half mile stretch of coastline in North Kona. That came as a huge relief to the community leaders and residents in the area who have been fighting to protect the shoreline and its resources for decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tamar Elias, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientist, will present “Volcanic Air Pollution: The What, Where, and How of Vog in Hawaii” at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 at Hawaii Preparatory Academy’s Gates Performing Arts Center on the Upper Campus. The event is free and open to the public. West Hawaii Today.

A 17.73-pound taro corm grown by a group of farmers and cultural practitioners is being submitted to Guinness World Records. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Theft charges have been filed against a former Maui county employee accused of building a fancy kitchen on the taxpayers’ dime, without permission. KHON2.

A 59-year-old former Maui County Public Works district supervisor was charged with second-degree theft Tuesday, police records show. Maui News.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co.’s 36,000-acre plantation on Maui, which closed last week and effectively ended the era of the sugar industry in Hawaii, is auctioning off its equipment and items, Pacific Business News has learned.

The state Real Estate Commission will hold its standing committee meetings on Maui in January and will take comments from residents on current and future programs. Maui News.

Kauai

The entrance to the Princeville at Hanalei resort community will get a new Hawaiian landscaped feature as well as rebuilt roads under projects announced by Princeville Development Company’s president and CEO, Jeff Stone. Garden Island.

Tourism continues upward trend, cafe owner takes down anti-Trump sign, 'fake monks' harass Waikiki visitors, Hawaii County bill would outlaw government alcohol purchases, 50 nene killed in two years on Kauai, new campus for Maui charter school, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beachgoers © 2016 All Hawaii News

With 2016 all but in the books, Hawaii’s tourism industry is looking forward to 2017 and what could be a sixth straight year for record tourist arrivals and spending. Star-Advertiser.

Total visitor spending in Hawaii for the month of November was $1.2 billion, an increase of 5.6 percent compared to November last year, according to preliminary statistics released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii residents hoping to ring in the New Year while dining on sashimi are in luck, as the “catch has been good.” Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Information Practices, the state agency that oversees Hawaii’s laws on public access to government information and meetings is reducing its backlog of cases, according to its annual report released Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Cafe 8 1/2 co-owner Robert Warner on Wednesday took down a sign on the Italian restaurant’s front door telling people who voted for President-elect Donald Trump he does not want them there, but offered no regrets or apologies for putting it up in the first place. Star-Advertiser.

Millennials Make A Stand In Honolulu’s Chinatown. A few blocks from the bustle of open-air markets, the arts district gets an infusion of restaurants and other new businesses. Civil Beat.

Kmart is closing its Halawa store in mid-March as part of a nationwide strategy to unload unprofitable locations. Star-Advertiser.

Long lines outside of Iolani Palace Wednesday night for the first of just two-nights of special evening tours. The special tours are to commemorate Queen Kapiolani’s birthday. KHON2.

Daniel Grabauskas, who once headed the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, which oversee the more than $9 billion rail transit project, has found a new job in New York as an independent transportation consultant, he confirmed to Pacific Business News.

On the sidewalks of Kalakaua and Kuhio avenues in the past month, men in orange robes are hitting up tourists and workers for donations -- sometimes aggressively. Some call them "fake monks." Hawaii News Now.

The new owner of Outrigger Hotels and Resorts is moving ahead with a $90.7 million plan to redevelop the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, Pacific Business News has learned.

President Obama spent another day teeing off at the Kapolei Golf Course before dining at a new restaurant in the Ward Village area. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Stricter limits on taxpayer-funded alcohol could soon become law, under a bill to be considered next week by a County Council committee. West Hawaii Today.

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority is offering up a 1.3-acre lot for “eco-friendly” developers along what the county believes will be a major road in West Hawaii’s future. West Hawaii Today.

Like so many coastal areas in Hawai‘i, the once plentiful waters off North Kona have seen a decline in marine life over several decades.  As the state wrestles with how to manage these natural resources, some communities are stepping forward with a plan of their own. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kamehameha Schools will seek a new tenant for more than 10,000 acres of eucalyptus forest it owns on the Hamakua Coast following expiration of its current lease agreement. Tribune-Herald.

The superintendent for the West Hawaii Complex Area and the principal of the area’s largest school are both embracing the Department of Education’s new strategic plan, a plan they say finally puts more focus on educating “the whole child.” West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The South Maui Learning Ohana will break ground Friday on a new building and central campus for Kihei Charter School, which has been spread out across three separate locations for more than a decade. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. officials tried to clear up confusion over the utility’s optional rate program, which varies charges based on time of use, because of differences in the rates published in its October rollout and those on letters recently received from the utility by those who have signed up. Maui News.

Maui Memorial Medical Center has reopened its oncology unit after 16 months of construction, the hospital said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Eight nene were recently killed by vehicles along a two-mile stretch of Kaumualii Highway in Kekaha, and the state is urging drivers to slow down in that area. Garden Island.

Though the tradition of busting firecrackers is long here in the Aloha State, one must purchase a permit to ignite them on New Year’s Eve. Garden Island.

Historic Pearl Harbor visit by Obama and Abe, Hawaii reaches 25% renewable energy, Green bill to raise minimum wage, Senate President Kouchi to speak at Maui inauguration, restaurateur bans Trump supporters, Waikiki hotel closed, rare crows die in the wild, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama and Abe offer flowers at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. (Pool photo)

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe didn’t apologize Tuesday for Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago, but his landmark visit to the USS Arizona Memorial with President Barack Obama spoke volumes about reconciliation. Star-Advertiser.

In a joint appearance deep with cultural and historic significance, the leaders of Japan and the United States placed flowers at the USS Arizona Memorial on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

In a historic pilgrimage, the leaders of Japan and the United States took to the hallowed waters of Pearl Harbor on Tuesday to prove that even the bitterest enemies can become allies. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe did not apologize, but conceded Japan “must never repeat the horrors of war again.” Associated Press.

The leaders of the United States and Japan visited the USS Arizona Memorial together for the first time since the December 7th surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Hawaii Public Radio.

In a powerful gesture of reconciliation 75 years after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe joined President Obama Tuesday to lay a wreath at the USS Arizona Memorial and tell a gathered crowd that Japan "must never repeat the horrors of war again." Hawaii News Now.

The ceremonial visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Pearl Harbor, where he met with President Barack Obama and offered his “condolences,” comes amid rising tensions with Japan’s historic rival, China. Civil Beat.

President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met at Camp Smith Tuesday morning to cement alliances as the political uncertainties in the Pacific continue to grow. KITV.

It was a historic moment Tuesday when, for the first time ever, a U.S. president and the Japanese prime minister together visited the USS Arizona Memorial. KHON2.

Abe's Pearl Harbor visit in photos. Nikkei Asian Review.

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Hawaii has made progress toward its goal of lowering its dependence on oil, cutting the number of barrels imported by 41 percent since 2006. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii currently gets 25 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources, according to a new state report. Pacific Business News.

The Aloha State got a little greener in 2015, according to the 2016 Energy Resources Coordinator’s Annual Report released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s Hawaii State Energy Office on Tuesday. Garden Island.

Under a bill drafted by state Sen. Josh Green, the minimum wage would rise to $15 an hour by 2019, from $8.50 now. Hawaii News Now.

As Hawaii residents eye the fresh ahi sashimi platters traditionally found on holiday dinner tables, major negotiations loom next year over how much tuna commercial fishermen should be allowed to catch. Civil Beat.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii is urging local residents to withdraw funds and close their accounts with First Hawaiian Bank in an act of solidarity with Dakota Access Pipeline protesters, citing the bank’s connection to its majority shareholder BNP Paribas, which is backing the pipeline project. Pacific Business News.

A longtime Honolulu journalist is moving into the public-relations business. AARP Hawaii on Tuesday announced that Craig Gima is its new communications director. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Republican state Rep. Bob McDermott has gone to court to try to force the state to provide funding to improve what he describes as “intolerable” overcrowded conditions at Campbell High School or else immediately select a site and begin construction on a new East Kapolei high school.Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu is ordering guests of the Polynesian Plaza hotel in Waikiki to be relocated out of the boutique hotel immediately because of unsafe conditions, Pacific Business News has learned.

Structural safety concerns prompted the city Department of Parks and Recreation to close the pavilion at Waimanalo Beach Park last week until further notice. Star-Advertiser.

Between the high rise buildings and industrial warehouses, a farm is the last thing you’d expect to find in urban Kaka‘ako. But one business is creating a space for growing food in an unexpected way. Hawaii Public Radio.

A longtime downtown Honolulu restaurant known for its pasta dishes and daily baked bread is now drawing attention for his poster banning Trump supporters. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has completed a bike lane from Queen Street to Ward Avenue within its 60-acre Ward Village master planned community. Pacific Business News.

A 19-year-old college student accused of killing seabirds at a Hawaii nature reserve pleaded not guilty Tuesday to animal cruelty. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The Ka‘u gym and shelter has been open for more than three months, but Hawaii County officials are now seeking reassurance that the $18 million project meets state and county building codes for emergency shelters. West Hawaii Today.

Legacy Hilo Rehabilitation &Nursing Center will lose its Medicare certification in March if it does not fix problems found during recent inspections. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Electric’s latest energy plan calls for an additional 20 megawatts of wind power on Hawaii Island in just a few years as it shifts away from fossil fuels. Tribune-Herald.

Kamehameha Schools is seeking a new tenant for 10,000 acres of former sugar lands that are planted in eucalyptus along the Hamakua Coast of Hawaii island after a company that had been logging those lands opted to surrender the lease. Star-Advertiser.

The plan to re-establish the Hawaiian crow in the wild suffered a blow as three of the five birds released into the East Hawaii wilderness were found dead last week of unknown causes. Star-Advertiser.

Less than two weeks after a small cohort of captive-bred ‘alala, endangered Hawaiian crows, was released into the wild, two of the five birds were returned to an outdoor aviary. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Senate President Ronald Kouchi will deliver the keynote address at the Maui County Council inauguration on Monday, Jan. 2, 2017 at 10 a.m. in the Council Chamber. Maui Now.

Stephanie Dunbar-Co of Molokai, Ian Robin Kaye of Lanai and Robert Parsons of Maui have been appointed by Gov. David Ige to the 15-member state Environmental Council. Maui News.

Kauai

Two Kauai residents were named to the 15-member Hawaii State Environmental Council, which provides a bridge between the public and the state Office of Environmental Quality Control. Garden Island.