Kilauea activity resumes, sulfur dioxide levels a concern, Ige meets with FEMA, Trump signs emergency flood declaration for Oahu and Kauai, government among the least transparent, homeless get Waikiki apartments, state Supreme Court overturns county defamation lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

News photographers emerge from steaming Kilauea volcanic gas. PC: Tom Callis

Ige meets with FEMA, expects eruption will qualify as major federal disaster. Star-Advertiser.

Price tag for back-to-back natural disasters unlikely to hurt state's economy. Hawaii News Now.

A possible new fissure opened in Leilani Estates, potentially bringing the number of fissures in the subdivision up to 15. Tribune-Herald.

The Kilauea eruption burst open two more vents at the northeastern edge of the Leilani Estates subdivision and consumed another home Tuesday afternoon, prompting an urgent evacuation order for residents in the adjoining Lanipuna Gardens subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

Two More Fissures Appear; Remaining Lanipuna Gardens Residents Being Told To "Evacuate Now". Hawaii Public Radio.

Lava from Kilauea Volcano covers 104 acres, destroys 36 structures in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

Police went door-to-door in Hawaii to roust residents near two new vents emitting dangerous gases in areas where lava has been pouring into streets and backyards for the past week. Associated Press.

Residents of a second subdivision on Hawaii’s Big Island were ordered to evacuate immediately Tuesday afternoon after county civil defense officials said two new fissures with lava from Kilauea volcano had opened. Pacific Business News.

VIDEO: 9 pm Eruption Update – Flyover New Lava Fissures. Big Island Video News.

Nearly a week since Kilauea volcano began releasing torrents of lava onto the roads and homes of Leilani Estates, large areas of the Puna neighborhood have started to resemble another world. Tribune-Herald.

Insurance companies have stopped issuing any new polices for those residents until the lava threat is over. KHON2.

Some Hawaii island residents were showing early signs of respiratory illness over the weekend as the lava from Kilauea Volcano expanded its footprint in the Leilani Estates subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

Alvin C. Bronstein, M.D., the Hawaii Health Department's Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention Systems Branch Chief, talks about the effects of sulfur dioxide. Big Island Video News.

Sulfur dioxide from eruption creating vog, possible acid rain. KHON2.

Rescue operations are underway to retrieve what could be hundreds of animals left in Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens after their owners were forced to evacuate. Tribune-Herald.

Efforts to retrieve or rescue animals in Leilani Estates have become chaotic as residents and the Hawaii Island Humane Society work under evacuation orders and lava inundates the rural subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

Residents in evacuation shelters struggle with uncertainty as lava claims more homes. KHON2.

He lost his home and livelihood to lava, but his focus now is on helping others. Hawaii News Now.

Here's how to help those affected by the Big Island eruptions. Hawaii News Now.

PHOTOS: More homes destroyed in ongoing Kilauea eruption. Hawaii News Now.

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President Donald Trump has approved a Hawaii’s request for a major disaster declaration for the April floods, landslides and mudslides on Kauai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. President Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration that will provide public assistance for damages caused by severe flooding and landslides on Kauai and Oahu last month. Pacific Business News.

Federal relief is on the way for Kauai and Oahu after President Donald Trump declared recent flooding and landslides on Hawaii as a national disaster on Tuesday. Garden Island.

The recent flood on Kauai and lava eruption on Hawaii island have exposed a weakness in Hawaii’s disaster preparations: who will assist visitors staying in the growing number of vacation rentals. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Just Found A New Way To Fight Climate Change. Offsetting carbon emissions by doing things like planting trees is the vision, but it’s far from ready to be implemented. Civil Beat.

Business and environmental leaders joined state lawmakers at a Magic Island news conference Tuesday to urge Gov. David Ige to sign two bills aimed at committing Hawaii to achieve “carbon neutrality” by 2045. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers, business innovators, and community advocates celebrated the passage of H.B. 2182 Tuesday, which sets the goal of “sequestering more atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gases than the State produces as quickly as practicable, but no later than 2045.” KITV.

Hawaii is among the worst in the nation when it comes to being transparent about the way state government spends its money, according to a new study of state transparency sites. Civil Beat.

Full report: Following the Money 2018. How the 50 States Rate in Providing Online Access to Government Spending Data found here.

How Hawaii Schools Are Building Bridges To Micronesian Students. As enrollment expands, schools and community groups are trying new ways to close cultural and academic gaps. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Should The Mayor Choose Honolulu’s Police Chief? One Honolulu council member is pushing to amend the city charter to revamp how the chief and police commissioners are chosen. Civil Beat.

The city has acquired its first building in Waikiki with affordable units designated for Housing First tenants — a move greeted by many who have long complained about growing homelessness in their neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

City & County of Honolulu Buys $7.5M Building in Waikiki. Hawaii Public Radio.

A thirty-three unit Waikiki building will soon represent a new start for some of Hawaii's homeless. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Being a good neighbor is one of the new requirements for vacation rentals in a rewrite of Bill 108 discussed Tuesday by the County Council Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has overturned the dismissal of a defamation lawsuit filed by county Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto and a former elections clerk against Hawaii County, former Councilman Dominic Yagong and a private investigator. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island lands $256M in projects after lawmaking session. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Police Department is awaiting delivery of 10 new marked police SUVs, the first addition to the department’s fleet in nearly a decade. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County’s top civil attorney, Patrick Wong, got lucky again in Vegas last year, winning at least $26,000, although that’s not his highest winnings to date. Maui News.

The volunteer-based Hui O Ka Wai Ola ocean water quality testing program has expanded again, with the addition of 12 more testing sites in South Maui. Maui Now.

Haleakala National Park reported a 12 percent decline in visitors in 2017 compared to 2016, though park officials note that the numbers tend to fluctuate. Maui News.

Maui’s homeless population has decreased 2.6% since last year with a total of 873 homeless individuals tallied on Maui. Maui Now.

Overall, Maui is seeing a slight decline in homeless individuals, down 2.6 percent to 873 people this year compared with 896 last year. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai received more than $85.3 million Capital Improvement Project funding for fiscal year 2019 from bills in the 2018 legislative session. Garden Island.

Koloa Big Save Supermarket is sitting on a large-capacity cesspool that has drawn a civil penalty of $110,000 for violating the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Garden Island.

Farmers that have been impacted by the recent record-breaking rains are invited to attend the Kauai Farmer Disaster One Stop Shop, May 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Kauai Community College Office of Continuing Education and Training Room 106. Garden Island.

Federal aid iffy in Kilauea volcano response, alternate road planned as cracks emerge in main thoroughfare, cancellations concern tourism officials -- lots more volcano news. Plus, homelessness drops, rail costs rise, more top news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A local pokes fun at federal volcano responders in this Facebook photo illustration PC: Gayln Williams

Federal disaster declaration iffy, governor says. The ongoing volcanic eruption does not yet appear to reach the financial threshold for a federal disaster declaration, but Gov. David Ige is exploring whether a disaster can be declared for presenting “an imminent danger to the community.” Star-Advertiser.

'Open for business': Tourism leaders say misinformation is driving spike in cancellations. Hawaii News Now.


Volcanic activity has paused at all 12 fissures although they continue to emit hazardous fumes, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Star-Advertiser.

As eruptions subside on Big Island, residents warned: 'This is not over'. Hawaii News Now.

Volcanic activity calms for now, but officials 'don't believe this is the end of it'. KHON2.

Hawaii County Civil Defense officials said Monday that a total of 35 structures, most of those homes, have been destroyed by lava flowing from the eruptions from 10 fissures on Kilauea’s east rift zone, while officials with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the dropoff in activity from the eruption is “likely only a pause in activity.” Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County's Department of Public Works reports steam and lava emissions from a crack in Leilani Subdivision in the area of Mohala Street late Thursday afternoon. Since then, earthquakes have shook the island, and more fissures have appeared. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor David Ige visited community members and volunteers in Pahoa Monday at Puuhonua O Puna, an information center established by Big Island Civil Defense at Sacred Hearts Church. KITV.

Hawaii Island leaders addressed the crowd Monday night at the public meeting on the ongoing Puna eruption, held at the Pahoa cafeteria. Big Island Video News.

The state and Hawaii County are preparing an alternate route to Puna in case Kilauea eruptions cut off Highway 130. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is working with the County of Hawaii to prepare an alternative route in Puna should Highway 130 be cut off by the Kilauea Volcano East Rift Zone Eruption. Big Island Now.

Officials work on contingency plan should current eruption cut off highway. KHON2.

Science explains Kilauea, a volcano oozing hot lava for decades. Kilauea is not your typical blow-the-top-off kind of volcano. Associated Press.

Despite Risks, Volcano Offers Affordable Piece Of Paradise. The people here are largely self-sufficient and understand the hazards of their location. Associated Press.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports volcanic activity has subsided at all 12 fissures, but hazardous fumes remain. Star-Advertiser.

Some Leilani Estates residents stay put despite evacuation order. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic activity in Leilani impacts water supply of surrounding neighborhoods. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii island residents whose homes were destroyed by lava should be able to recover money for fire damage from their homeowners insurance policies. Star-Advertiser.

‘Business as usual’ in Lanipuna. With daily updates of more volcanic fissures opening and lava destroying homes in Leilani Estates, it’s easy to forget that Lanipuna Gardens, a smaller neighboring subdivision, also remains under evacuation order by Hawaii County Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

Two lava-related arrests made in Leilani Estates. Tribune-Herald.

In just the past week, people on the Big Island have felt over 1,200 earthquakes. Hawaii News Now.

The Latest: Lava update from Hawaii Island. KITV.

=====

Count shows big decline in homelessness, but some doubt its accuracy. Hawaii News Now.

The statewide Point-in-Time Count, a census of Hawaii’s homeless population, decreased across all islands, indicating that the state is making progress in reducing the country’s highest per capita rate of homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii saw a 9.6 percent decrease in its homeless population as compared to a year ago, according to a survey released Monday. Civil Beat.

Homelessness in Hawaii has taken a nosedive for the second consecutive year, according to the 2018 statewide Point In Time Count Report conducted in January and released Monday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Homeless Point-In-Time Count Down For 2nd Consecutive Year. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Neighbor island housing markets were mainly positive last month with mostly higher sale volume and prices on Hawaii island, Maui County and Kauai, according to data from local real estate agent trade associations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines tops $100M in baggage, change fees. Hawaiian Airlines has given no indication of changing its baggage and change-fee policies even with Southwest Airlines lurking in the distance. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A one-day census of Oahu’s homeless population decreased for the first time in nine years and resulted in the statewide Point in Time Count decreasing for the second year in a row. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s rail agency has awarded the project’s next major contract: a work package valued at as much as $400 million to relocate utilities along the route’s last four miles into town. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has awarded Nan Inc. a contract worth a maximum $400 million to relocate utilities along the proposed rail transit route through Honolulu’s city center. Pacific Business News.

Councilmember Kobayashi plans to prevent another Manoa stream flood. KITV.

Trump signs bill to add Pacific War memorial to Honolulu WWII sites. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The county Board of Ethics made quick work Monday agreeing that Kohala Councilman Tim Richards doesn’t have a conflict of interest voting on a vacation rental bill, even though he and his wife operate a vacation rental themselves. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim inched his annual spending plan up another $2.3 million in his proposed budget delivered Monday to the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Naalehu residents raise concern after wastewater treatment facility preliminary design puts it next to school. West Hawaii Today.

Heavy vog expected in West Hawaii through this week. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Statewide survey finds a slight decrease in Maui homeless people. Valley Isle’s decline lowest in state, which had overall 9.6% drop in homeless population. Maui News.

With the median sales price hitting $725,000 for a single-family home and $508,513 for a condominium, the Realtors Association of Maui statistics for April provide the latest evidence of how tough it is for working-class residents to buy homes here. Maui News.

Maui Community Correctional Center Gets 3 New Adult Correctional Officers. Maui Now.

An 11.3-acre photovoltaic solar project located in Haleakala Ranch pastures came online over the weekend. Maui Now.

Maui's first large-scale solar project goes online. On Saturday, Kenyon Energy, in partnership with Maui Electric Co., flipped the switch on its new 2.87-megawatt solar farm on the Valley Isle south side. Pacific Business News.

With help from the Small Business Development Center, Maui resident Jenna Davis created Raw Love Sunscreen, an FDA approved, water proof and coral-safe sunscreen with no harmful chemicals, preservatives or fillers. Maui Now.

Kauai

Flood relief efforts ongoing. It’s been nearly a month since historic rainfall caused catastrophic flooding on Kauai, destroying homes and cars, killing livestock and initially leaving three North Shore communities isolated. Garden Island.

Felicia Cowden has filed to run for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

The Department of Public Works is announcing that one lane of alternating traffic will be open for portions of Koloa Road to allow for the performance of pavement survey work today. Garden Island.

Volcano update: more homes destroyed, lava outbreaks, sulfur dioxide threat continue as anxious residents flee; Hawaii Republicans plan election strategy; Schatz announces $2.6B military money; vacation rental regulations falters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava flow aerial PC: Mick Kalber/Tropical Visions Video

Growing eruptions in the Big Island's Leilani Estates on Sunday night prompted officials to issue an emergency alert urging any residents remaining in the lava-ravaged subdivision to "go now" and stoking fears that the toll of homes claimed by lava — at 26 so far — would undoubtedly grow. Hawaii News Now.

More fissures open, 31 structures destroyed from lava in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

A total of 26 homes have been destroyed by lava from Kilauea volcano in Leilani Estates subdivision, Hawaii County Civil Defense said at a 3 p.m. Sunday briefing. Tribune-Herald.

The number of destroyed homes mounts as molten lava continues to inundate Leilani Estates from a Kilauea Volcano vent that opened up in the Puna subdivision Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The number of homes destroyed by Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano jumped to 26 Sunday night as scientists reported lava spewing more than 200 feet into the air. Associated Press.

Civil Defense: 26 Homes Destroyed, 10 Confirmed Active Fissures. Hawaii Public Radio.

After what appeared like a brief reprieve from a volcanic eruption on Saturday, Kilauea volcano came roaring back with a vengeance overnight Saturday and through Sunday, spewing lava from multiple fissures in Leilani Estates. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: 10 pm Eruption Update – Big Fissure Produces Half Mile Lava Flow. Big Island Video News.

Residents brave toxic fumes and thundering eruption in brief dash to their homes. Star-Advertiser.

Conditions permitting, Leilani Estates residents will be allowed to continue evacuation to check on their property from 7 AM to 6 PM each day until further notice, civil defense says. Big Island Video News.

As lava moves through the Leilani Estates Subdivision, concerned residents are growing anxious over the status of the Puna Geothermal Venture. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County spokeswoman Janet Snyder said Sunday that officials are not sure exactly how many of the estimated 1,800 residents in the Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens subdivisions have actually evacuated. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopened Sunday at 3 p.m. officials say. The park was closed for two days following the sequence of large, violent earthquakes that shook the Big Island on Friday. Big Island Video News.

All public schools on the Big Island will be open for classes on Monday, according to the Hawaii Department of Education. Hawaii News Now.

The lava flow from Kilauea that has destroyed at least nine homes at the Leilani Estates subdivision is exposing a major gap in the homeowners' insurance system. Few Big Island property owners are insured for seismic or volcanic activity. Hawaii News Now.

Hourly updates on the Big Island lava threat. KITV.

LIST: Lava threat forces evacuations, closures. Hawaii News Now.

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U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced the Army’s Hawaii Infrastructure Readiness Initiative, a $2.6 billion, 32-year plan to build and upgrade facilities across the state. Maui Now.

How Tulsi Gabbard Is Turning Her National Profile Into Campaign Cash. The Hawaii congresswoman raises a vastly larger portion of her donations from outside the state than her delegation colleagues. Civil Beat.

Banking On Trump, Hawaii GOP Says Its Future Looks Bright. At their state convention Saturday, the islands’ Republicans hear optimistic predictions about the midterm elections. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Do We Really Want To Let The Tax Genie Out Of The Bottle? The teachers union got smart this year and pushed for an education tax measure that didn’t include specific numbers. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s vacation rental proposal to allow for more legal bed-and- breakfast establishments and transient vacation units across Oahu — under stricter guidelines — got a warmer reception from Honolulu City Council members last week than when it was announced last month. Star-Advertiser.

The average price of a single-­family home resold on Oahu last month dipped below March’s record $1 million as the number of new listings increased from a year earlier, according to a report released Sunday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Full video of the 2018 Hawaii County Democratic Party Convention, Saturday, April 28, 2018. Occupy Hawaii.

The state plans to take over maintenance of the statue of King Kamehameha the Great, which has been cared for by a North Kohala community group since 1883. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The state Department of Health’s Environmental Council will hold nine public hearings statewide — four in Maui County — next month on proposed changes to environmental impact statement rules. Maui News.

Former Gov. John Waihee came to Maui recently to speak of leadership and to honor the legacy of nisei veterans of World War II, but he also brought a call for unity in a time of increasing divisiveness. Maui News.

Kauai

Experts: Think Twice Before Rebuilding In Kauai’s Flood Zone. Kauai has historically allowed development along rivers and in coastal areas vulnerable to flooding. Civil Beat.

Snorkel mask safety gets a closer look. A single full face snorkel mask sat in the half-off bin at Kauai Beach Shop on Friday because the dive shop owners just wanted to get rid of it. Garden Island.

The three vehicles that were buried in sand following the mid-April flood have been removed from the Black Pot Beach Park area. Garden Island.

Less than two weeks after it was established, the Kauai Relief and Recovery Fund at the Hawaii Community Foundation has received over $1 million in donations from more than 300 generous donors in Hawaii and abroad. Garden Island.

Breaking -- Lava leaps 230 feet, houses burn, earthquakes continue -- video, photos, stories on Hawaii volcano update, a special report

After a short period of quiet in Leilani Estates, a new, vigorous fissure began erupting from Luana Street on Saturday evening. Big Island Video News.

The lava outbreaks in Leilani Estates remained active overnight with a new fissure emerging and lava fountains as high as 230 feet, according to Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Star-Advertiser.

1 am Eruption Update – New Ground Cracks On Highway 130. Big Island Video News.

Fissures 9 and 10 open in Leilani Estates; eruptions reported. Hawaii News Now.

Hourly updates on the Big Island lava threat. KITV.

Sputtering lava, strong earthquakes and toxic gas jolted the southern part of the Big Island of Hawaii as magma shifted underneath a restless Kilauea volcano. Associated Press.

Volcanic gas a ‘risk for everyone’ in the area near lava outbreak. Star-Advertiser.

Talmadge Magno, the Hawaii County Civil Defense administrator, says that the first responders are feeling the effects of sulphur dioxide working in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

Watch and wait: Some may be allowed to return to homes briefly. Tribune-Herald.

Temporary flight restrictions have been issued for the area above lower Puna and is in effect from today until 11:59 p.m. Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Residents of neighboring Hawaii island communities fear they will be next to feel Pele’s wrath. Star-Advertiser.

Homes consumed by lava in Leilani Estates eruption, but most residents remain optimistic. KHON2.

Most of the Big Island is open for business, officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Here's how you can donate to those impacted by the Kilauea eruption. Hawaii News Now.

National Guard activated as lava fountains continue on Big Island, sine die for state Legislature, Caldwell signs fire sprinkler bill, judge dismissed Coco Palms title lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Ige activates National Guard, Red Cross opens 2 shelters as lava flows in lower Puna. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has signed an emergency proclamation after an eruption of lava forced the evacuation of Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens. Tribune-Herald.

The mayor of Hawaii County, as well as the governor of the State of Hawaii, have signed emergency proclamations due to the new volcanic eruption that began in Leilani Estates subdivision. Big Island Video News.

New eruptions in Kilauea's east rift zone early Friday sent lava soaring more than 100 feet into the air, and Big Island fire officials say two structures have already been damaged from lava creeping through the Puna's Leilani Estates subdivision. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly 1,500 residents were ordered to evacuate from their volcano-side homes after the Big Island’s Kilauea volcano erupted, sending molten lava to chew its way through forest land and bubble up on paved streets. Associated Press.

Just hours after residents in Puna's Leilani Estates subdivision fled with little more than the clothes on their backs Thursday night after an eruption in Kilauea's east rift zone, yet another eruption sent lava soaring into the air early Friday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory confirms the volcanic eruption continues in Leilani Subdivision in the Puna District. KITV.

Active fountaining of the eruption in Leilani Estates has been confirmed, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense. Star-Advertiser.

If they got any sleep at all, the people chased from their homes Thursday by a surprise burst of Kilauea lava expected to wake this morning to a future they could not control. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents began evacuating from subdivisions in the east rift zone of Kilauea volcano Thursday afternoon as an eruption began spewing lava along a break in a residential area, hours after an earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.0 south of the Puu Oo crater caused a possible additional collapse into the crater, sending a red plume of ash into the air. Pacific Business News.

An emergency proclamation is now in effect at both the county and state levels as Hawaii County Civil Defense responds to a volcanic eruption in the lower Puna area. KHON2.

A volcanic eruption forced the evacuation of Leilani Estates and Lanipuna Gardens in Puna on Thursday after fountains of lava burst through cracks in the middle of a residential street. Tribune-Herald.

Thursday's sudden volcanic eruption in Leilani Estates led to an emergency shutdown of independent power producer Puna Geothermal Venture. Big Island Video News.

LIST: Lava threat forces evacuations, school closures. Hawaii News Now.

After eruption, residents fled with little — and didn't know what they'd return home to. Hawaii News Now.

When You Live In A Volcano’s Shadow, You Go With The Flow. Just hours before a new eruption threatened a subdivision, residents and visitors were buzzing with excitement. Civil Beat.

PHOTOS: Lava spews to the surface on Hawaii Island. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County Civil Defense updates on the lava emergency can be found here.

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The state Legislature wrapped up for the year Thursday as lawmakers called the 60-day session one of the most collaborative and productive in recent memory. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers proud of their work, chilly toward Ige. With Hawaii’s top legislative leaders lined up against him in this year’s Democratic primary, Gov. David Ige must have figured he would be the target of a few snarky comments this week. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige today withdrew his nomination to reappoint prominent Honolulu attorney Rick Fried as Hawaii Tourism Authority board chairman. Star-Advertiser.

The chairman of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, prominent personal injury attorney Rick Fried, suddenly withdrew his bid for a second term on the board Thursday ahead of a potentially contentious debate over his confirmation in the state Senate. Hawaii News Now.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is set to release a report tomorrow on the health of Native Hawaiian women. Hawaii Public Radio.

The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization forecasts in a report being released today that real personal income will grow by 2 percent in the state this year. Star-Advertiser.

Shares for Hawaiian Airlines were down 6.5 percent at close on Thursday following Southwest Airlines’ announcement that it would offer interisland service. Pacific Business News.

Oahu
 

At the site of a July 14 condo tower blaze that killed four, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed Bill 69 into law Thursday, giving incentives to condo associations if they install fire sprinklers. Star-Advertiser.

It's been almost a year since the Marco Polo fire killed four people and caused more than 100 million dollars in damage. On Thursday, the city took a big step forward in preventing another tragedy. KHON2.

Mayor Caldwell signs bill to encourage fire sprinklers in high rise buildings. KITV.

A federal judge ruled this afternoon that former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Kealoha will have one trial by themselves and a second one with four former members of the Honolulu Police Department’s elite Criminal Intelligence Unit. Star-Advertiser.

Are Waikiki’s Public Pavilions Hopelessly Crime-Ridden? “Demolish them,” says Councilman Trevor Ozawa, but the Kalakaua Avenue shelters also offer tourists a respite from the sun or the rain. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Company will invest close to $150 million in two new energy storage projects on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

According to real estate firm Locations, Oahu single-family median home prices reached a new high at $795,000 up 10 percent. KHON2.

The median price of a single-family home on Oahu jumped 10 percent in April to $795,000, the largest percentage increase for any month in four years, according to a new report by Honolulu real estate firm Locations. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Cash handling at the county Mass Transit Agency was so lax, the legislative auditor can’t tell if any money is missing, much less how much. West Hawaii Today.

Despite objections from a handful of testifiers, the Windward Planning Commission went forward on Thursday with the adoption of a proposed “Second Supplemental Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Decision and Order of the Commission” in the matter of Hu Honua. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui researchers share pollution solutions at international marine debris gathering. Maui News.

It’s hard to miss the vibrant sunflower fields that have been growing in Waikapu since last year. So where do all the flowers go, after their time in the sun? Maui Now. 

Kauai

A motion to dismiss a quiet title case filed against Coco Palms Hui LLC, was granted during civil proceedings Thursday in Fifth Circuit Court, but that’s not the end of the Coco Palms legal battle according to those involved. Garden Island.

A single lane route on Kuhio Highway from Waikoko to Wainiha, is opening to local traffic only, beginning today. Garden Island.

A single-lane route on a two-mile stretch of Kuhio Highway, from Waikoko to Wainiha, will open to local traffic starting Friday, state and Kauai county officials said today. Star-Advertiser.

Public Utility Gets Creative With Plan To Recirculate Reservoir Water. The Garden Island already uses renewable energy sources for 43 percent of its electricity, with more solar and hydropower on the way. Civil Beat.

County dedicates 11th lifeguard tower. A small crowd of dignitaries, including Kauai Ocean Safety Bureau chief Kalani Vierra, Kauai Fire Chief Robert Westerman, former mayor Maryanne Kusaka, several Kauai County Council members, and curious beach goers watched the county blessed and dedicated the newest lifeguard tower at Nukumoi Point at the Poipu Beach Park. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige seeks federal disaster declaration for flooding on Kauai and Oahu as Big Island put on volcano watch, sexual harassment in the Legislature, Roddenberry son building Maui home, new standards for Kakaako roads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige signs disaster declaration request, Governor's Office photo

Gov. David Ige on Wednesday asked President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for Hawaii following last month’s flooding and landslides that destroyed — or caused major damage — to more than 115 homes on Kauai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Seeks Federal Disaster Assistance For Flood-Ravaged Kauai. The state’s detailed assessment of damage includes destroyed homes and roads, lost tourism dollars and PTSD among residents. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has asked President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for the state of Hawaii following severe flooding and landslides on Kauai and Oahu last month. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige has asked President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for the State of Hawaii as a result of severe flooding and landslides on Kauai and Oahu between April 13 and April 16, 2018. Big Island Now.

Gov. David Ige is asking President Trump to declare a major disaster for Hawaii following last month’s destructive flooding Kauai and Oahu. KHON2.

Some 532 homes were damaged or destroyed in the historic rains that swamped Oahu and Kauai last month, state officials said Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Damage to public property alone from last month’s flooding and landslides adds up to more than $19.7 million, and 532 homes on Oahu and Kauai were affected — 115 of them left with major damage or destroyed. Star-Advertiser.

Ige's full 25-page disaster declaration request can be found here.

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Why No One Wants To Blow The Whistle On Sexual Misconduct. People who experience sexual harassment at the Hawaii State Capitol fear the consequences if they complain. Civil Beat.

Roll Call: Here’s The Best And Worst Attendance Of Legislators This Session. A handful of lawmakers missed at least 10 days, but many had perfect attendance. Civil Beat.

Oxybenzone may soon become a thing of the past. Yesterday, Hawaii lawmakers approved a state-wide ban on the sale of sunscreen containing the chemical. Hawaii Public Radio.

Army installations across Hawaii will receive $2.6 billion in funding over a 32-year period to build and upgrade facilities, as part of he Army’s Hawaii Infrastructure Readiness Initiative. Pacific Business News.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Rowena Akana said she plans to fight an ethics charge alleging violations linked to cash she accepted to help pay for legal fees and for using her trustee allowance to buy things such as home cable television services and a home security system. Star-Advertiser.

OHA trustee says she'll fight ethics charges 'to the death'. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Public Schools to launch new online lunch payment system on May 7. KHON2.

Hokulea is back on dry land after getting damaged. The voyaging canoe ran aground as it made its way towards Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island. The canoe's hull was damaged. KHON2.

Oahu

Eight private Kakaako roads subject to new standards law. A bill signed into law by Gov. David Ige on Tuesday aims to make the owners of the roads responsible for upgrading the thoroughfares to meet city standards — something that could prove to be very costly — or quit charging for parking. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation will be looking for its third director of planning, permitting and right of way since November 2016 following the resignation of Abbey Mayer. Star-Advertiser.

While dozens of homeless people swept out of Kakaako parks set up new campsites in mauka parts of Kakaako, social service outreach workers also moved two homeless Kakaako families into public housing. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s largest utility is proposing to plug two batteries — really big batteries — into Oahu’s electricity grid to increase development, efficiency and cost savings of renewable energy production plants. Star-Advertiser.

Efforts to improve the beach parks mean lifeguards are spending precious time — moving their gear. At some Oahu beaches, lifesaving beach equipment is being transported to and from lifeguard towers every day. Hawaii News Now.

Coral out-plantings thriving at Sand Island. In the filtered light streaming through the ocean at Sand Island, Hawaii’s newest garden is thriving on five pyramids attached to the substrate. Garden Island.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County officials are advising lower Puna residents to be prepared to evacuate should a new eruption occur on Kilauea’s East Rift Zone. Tribune-Herald.

Underground Magma On The Move As Quakes Rattle Volcano. It may have already gone under the highway to the viewing area, and Hawaii County is making preparations for a possible eruption. Associated Press.

At least a couple of cracks formed in the roadways near Leilani Estates in Puna Wednesday, offering up the latest sign that Kilauea Volcano may be drawing closer to a new eruption. Star-Advertiser.

The Puna district on Hawaii's Big Island was placed under a volcano watch after a crater floor collapsed at Kilauea Volcano causing dozens of small earthquakes in the volcano’s east rift zone over the past several days, prompting federal, state and local authorities to prepare for a possible eruption. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park closed nearly 16,000 acres on Kilauea Volcano today as the possibility for a new eruption looms over the area and surrounding communities. Star-Advertiser.

VIDEO: New Flyover Reveals Deep Hole At Puu Oo As Lava Moves Downrift. Big Island Video News.

Swarms of earthquakes — as many as eight to 10 temblors per hour — continue to rattle Puna, and residents along Kilauea's east rift zone are being told to prepare for a possible eruption that could come with "very little warning" to evacuate. Hawaii News Now.

Residents in Lower Puna are being advised to stay informed with County and U.S. Geological Survey updates because of recent volcanic activity in the area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hundreds of small earthquakes continue to rattle the Big Island, raising concerns of a possible eruption from Kilauea Volcano. Emergency officials are already preparing for possible evacuations. KHON2.

Hawaii Island hit with earthquakes again Wednesday.  Some residents are on alert after increased activity at Kilauea Volcano. KITV.

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Kohala Councilman Tim Richards said he will recuse himself from voting on a bill regulating vacation rentals until the Board of Ethics clears him of a potential conflict of interest. West Hawaii Today.

Another $6.8 million has been added to the tab for phase 2 of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project. West Hawaii Today.

Friends of Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden is one step closer to securing the landmark garden and re-opening it to the public. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry plans to build a nearly 8,000-square-foot home with an infinity swimming pool and spa over the next couple years in Kaanapali. Maui News.

Kauai

A joint preliminary damage assessment released Wednesday found the April flooding caused nearly $11 million in damages on Kauai. Garden Island.

Disaster recovery on Kauai is making progress with the help of good Samaritans. Samaritan’s Purse, a North Carolina-based Christian relief organization, on Wednesday landed at Lihue Airport with supplies and disaster specialists on the organization’s DC-8 cargo plane that departed from Greensboro. Garden Island.

BREAKING: Gov. David Ige seeks presidential disaster declaration

Ige's full 25-page request can be found here.

Sunscreen, pesticide, fake service animal bans move to governor as Legislature nears final days, Big Island braces for Kilauea volcano eruption, Honolulu homeless sweep nets tons of trash, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii House of Representatives PC: House Majority

Lawmakers say they made good on their pledge to address the state’s homeless and affordable-housing crises with strategies they described as groundbreaking and bold during the 2018 legislative session, which ends Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The Most Progressive Legislative Session In A Long Time. From approving medical aid in dying to banning certain sunscreens and pesticide chemicals, legislators passed bills they only thought about in years past. Civil Beat.

After months of back and forth, lawmakers have settled on dozens of measures that could soon become law. The following list contains some of the measures now heading to the governor's office for approval. KHON2.

Bills awaiting the governor's action can be found here.

Hawaii lawmakers on Tuesday passed a measure that would ban sunscreen containing oxybenzone in an effort to protect coral reefs. Senators and representatives also voted to prohibit licensed professional counselors from attempting to change the sexual orientation of minors. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers passed a bill today banning the sale of sunscreens containing chemicals believed to be harmful to coral reefs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers approved a ban Tuesday on the sale of sunscreens with chemicals that could be harmful to the environment. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s Legislature has approved the first chlorpyrifos ban in the nation as a component of a pesticide disclosure bill approved by both the Senate and the House Tuesday. Garden Island.

A bill that would fine people fraudulently representing their pets as service dogs was approved unanimously on both floors of the state Legislature today, and now awaits the governor’s signature to become law. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would penalize people who falsely present their pets as service animals passed its final reading Tuesday and now goes to Gov. David Ige for final consideration. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii moved a step closer to expanding protections for students discriminated against on the basis of sex, gender identity or sexual orientation when the Legislature passed a bill Tuesday establishing a law to prohibit such treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii tourism officials are offering a sweet deal to six New York City workaholics: Come to Hawaii for an all-expenses-paid, week-long vacation to "work from home" — island style. Hawaii News Now.

A state judge has scheduled a hearing on state Rep. Andria Tupola’s petition for a temporary restraining order against fellow Hawaii Republican Party member Eric Ryan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii regulators have finally approved an on-bill financing program to boost the adoption of clean energy technology across the state, almost seven years after lawmakers passed a corresponding piece of legislation to investigate such a program. Pacific Business News.

Matson Inc. doubled its profit in the first quarter despite delivering about the same number of shipping containers to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu-based shipping company Matson Inc. reported net income of $14.2 million, or 33 cents per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2018, an increase of 102 percent compared to net income of $7 million, or 16 cents per diluted share, during last year’s comparable period. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City clears out 5 tons of trash during sweep of Kakaako parks. The estimated 80 homeless people living in Kakaako Waterfront Park and its sister parks had dwindled to about 30 to 50 Monday afternoon following days of warnings about the impending sweep. Star-Advertiser.

Price tag grows to move homeless off state land — and keep them off. Hawaii News Now.

A recreation center at the University of Hawaii needs hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs, only four years after opening. KHON2.

Sidewalk Extensions Please Some But Infuriate Others. A City Council committee passes a bill that would prohibit any more extensions, even though they’re intended to increase safety. Civil Beat.

City Councilmember Ikaika Anderson is spearheading a measure to crack down on illegal monster homes. Hawaii News Now.

A majority of condo owners at the 35-story Marco Polo have voted in favor of retrofitting the building with automated sprinklers several months after a deadly fire raged through the building, killing four people. Associated Press.

Another high rise is being planned for Ward Village. It will be 41 stories and will have 570 condo units. KHON2.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will conduct anti-terrorism force protection training exercises Wednesday, May 2 and Thursday, May 3 from about 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. KITV.

State crews completed a four-day clean-up of the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Tuesday. KITV.

The city intends to enter into a public-private partnership with Topgolf Hawai‘i, which would invest $50 million replacing the Ala Wai Golf Course’s traditional driving range with a high-tech version and other golf-related activities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

An intrusion of magma into Kilauea’s East Rift Zone shook the ground under lower Puna residents’ feet Tuesday and stirred worries about a new volcanic vent opening near populated areas. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Civil Defense was activated at 3 a.m. Tuesday in response to a significant increase in seismic activity and deformation — changes in the surface of a volcano — following the collapse of the Puu Oo crater floor on Kilauea’s East Rift Zone. Star-Advertiser.

Earthquakes, Crater Collapse On Kilauea May Indicate New Eruption. An “intrusion” of lava could affect a popular access point where people can hike or bike into a viewing area. Associated Press.

A half mile long, steaming crack was discovered just west of Puu Oo crater during an overflight by scientists on Tuesday, following the collapse of the crater floor the day before. Big Island Video News.

New USGS Map Shows Location of New Crack in Kilauea. Big Island Now.

Residents in Puna are being urged to be on alert after a series of small earthquakes in Kilauea volcano's east rift zone, which may indicate an eruption is imminent. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Senate passed a Senate Bill on Tuesday that would create a Hilo Community Economic District. Big Island Video News.

Effort seeks to preserve native trees south of Palamanui campus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Starting May 1, the County of Maui’s free Electronic Recycling Program will no longer accept a list of items including: DVDs and VCRs; phones; audio-visual equipment including AV screens, cameras and projectors; transmission devices; audio equipment including receivers; CD and record players, amplifiers or speakers. Maui Now.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard hosted a “Congress On Your Corner” event at the Queen Kaahumanu Center in Kahului on Monday, where she visited with local residents and updated them on her work in Washington, DC.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Three meetings scheduled this week are aimed to respond to questions about disaster recovery, health concerns, relief loans and assistance. Garden Island.

Rum Distilleries Keep Hawaii’s Sugar Industry Alive. The islands’ cane crop will never return to the production levels of plantation days, but it’s essential for these local businesses. Civil Beat.

Legislators to vote on sunscreen ban today, airport authority bill dies, OHA trustee investigated for accepting money from royal heiress, Honolulu officials get 4% pay raise, heart attack doesn't keep 78-year-old mayor from the job, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rinsing the beach baby in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News

Hawaii is poised to become the first state in the nation to pass a law banning the sales of over-the-counter sunscreens containing chemicals believed to harm coral reefs if Hawaii legislators vote to pass it on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Senate bill would stop sale of reef stressing sunscreens. Statewide ban would take effect in 2021. Maui News.

Legislation to regulate unlicensed care homes faces its final hurdle today as both House and Senate lawmakers vote on the controversial bill. Star-Advertiser.

A major change to a financial assistance program designed to help those caring for Hawaii's senior citizens is upsetting some caregivers. Hawaii News Now.

A bill that would have created a dedicated governing body to take control of the state’s airports was unexpectedly killed Friday despite being on the verge of passage. Tribune-Herald.

Voters will see on the November ballot a measure seeking to generate public education funding through a surcharge tax on high-value residential investment properties. Several other education-related bills are awaiting a final reading today and likely are headed to Ige’s desk. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii State Legislature passed House Bill 2342, which eliminates the fee for freezing and thawing credit reports. Maui Now.

OHA Trustee Under Investigation For Accepting $72,000 From Heiress. Rowena Akana says charges against her by the state ethics commission are inaccurate and politically motivated. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Inequality Study Overlooked Thousands of Micronesians. Service providers say more data is needed to help Hawaii’s most recent immigrants. Civil Beat.

The second of two Hawaii regulatory agencies has blessed the pending sale of local phone, TV and internet service provider Hawaiian Telcom to Ohio-based Cincinnati Bell. Members of the state Public Utilities Commission voted 3-0 Monday to approve the $650 million deal with several conditions. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection is launching an investigation into a data breach that impacted all 25 Zippy’s Restaurants in the state as well as its Napoleon’s Bakery, Kahala Sushi and Pearl City Sushi locations. Pacific Business News.

Boosted by the Trump administration's federal tax reform, Honolulu-based American Savings Bank reported first quarter earnings of $18.9 million for the year ending March 31, the highest quarterly net income in the company’s history. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A bump in pay could be coming for city officials, but it's not the mayor who will be making the most. The four percent pay raise approved by the Salary Commission covers the mayor, Honolulu City Council, and city department heads and deputies. KHON2.

Thirty to 50 people who have been living along the streets and parks in Kakaako Makai were anticipating being rousted from their campsites by city crews late Monday night, and while they’re not happy about it, frequent parkgoers applauded the change in policy that will allow the sweep. Star-Advertiser.

The city now has enforcement jurisdiction at Kakaako Makai parks, which include Kewalo Basin Park, Kakaako Waterfront Park and Kakaako Makai and Mauka Gateway Parks. For the first time, city crews utilized its new enforcement authority Monday night. Hawaii News Now.

Council to city: Replace parking stalls lost to urban bike lanes (or else). Hawaii News Now.

Competition May Be Coming To Honolulu’s Bike-Share Market. The nonprofit Biki launched in June. Now the for-profit LimeBike is advertising to fill job openings for its dockless service. Civil Beat.

Several months after a deadly fire raged through the 35-story Marco Polo, a majority of condo owners voted in favor of retrofitting the 35-story building with automated sprinklers. Star-Advertiser.

Public hearings are set to begin June 6 on a new 570-unit Kakaako tower proposed by Ward Village developer Howard Hughes Corp. Star-Advertiser.

Sidewalk renovations will begin Tuesday along Kalakaua Avenue, which could mean more traffic headaches in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Gifts given by King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani are being returned to Iolani Palace. KITV.

The Honolulu home of 92-year-old Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa was burglarized over the weekend. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

78-year-old mayor back at his desk days after heart attack. Mayor Harry Kim was at his desk Monday morning, looking fresh and rested, after undergoing evaluation and a heart procedure late last week. West Hawaii Today.

The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel &Bungalows will shut its doors in October, sending roughly 400 employees back out into the job market. West Hawaii Today.

Economists, farmers say overtreatment of coffee berry borer breaking banks. West Hawaii Today.

Mele, the young donkey that lived on the Kona Coffee Living History Farm, was killed Saturday afternoon after she was struck by what appears to have been a stray bullet fired from an adjacent agricultural property. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

County Council members halved money planned for the Wailuku civic complex, bringing it down from $81.2 million to $40 million, and the Maui Lani roundabout, originally cut by Budget and Finance Committee Chairman Riki Hokama, was back in the spending plan, but with conditions, including a review by a council committee. Maui News.

A one-mile portion of the Pipiwai Trail in east Maui will close for helicopter operations on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, in support of a trail boardwalk replacement project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hawaii's U.S. senators surveyed damage on Kauai on Monday, and pledged to work quickly to ensure that aid continues to flow to the flood-ravaged island. Hawaii News Now.

Sen. Mazie K. Hirono joined Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr., soldiers from the Hawaii National Guard, and emergency management officials to assess storm damage on Kauai’s North Shore and discuss ways the federal government can assist community residents as they work to recover from the storm. Garden Island.

Rules may change for Kauai homeowners anxious to rebuild. KHON2.

Kauai to begin shuttle service for isolated residents, car registration deadline extended. Hawaii News Now.

Now that food and fuel are arriving, the emotions of the last two weeks are catching up to people in the isolated Kauai communities of Wainiha and Haena, where an unknown number of homes were destroyed in unprecedented flooding last month. Star-Advertiser.

For over 40 years, Shirley-Simbre-Medeiros has called Kekaha home, but in that time, she said she has seen little change in some of the problems on the Westside, which is why she’s running for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.