Friday, January 11, 2019

State audit blasts Honolulu rail authority, Board of Education to re-vote on superintendent's contract, homeless coordinator defends progress, Hawaii's space defense plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Blistering audit blames political rush to construction for ballooning rail costs. The auditor documented $354 million in change orders related to Honolulu’s rail project. Hawaii News Now.

Audit: Honolulu Rail Agency Hid True Costs From Public View. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation did not even level with its own board of directors about ballooning expenses, a new report says. Civil Beat.

Premature contracts increased rail cost by $354M. Star-Advertiser.

State Auditor: HART Increased Rail Project Costs by 79.5 Percent. State Auditor, Les Kondo, says a review of records and staff interviews revealed that the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation or HART awarded contracts too early knowing the work could not be completed on time. Hawaii Public Radio.

A scathing audit of Honolulu's rail project says city officials are neglecting their responsibility on a project it says has a "fragile" financial plan and an "artificial" timeline. KHON2.

Audit of Honolulu rail says HART's lack of transparency 'undermines' ability to secure money. The audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) found that the costs went from $5.122 billion in 2012 to $9.188 billion in 2018. KITV.

Hawaii auditor says premature contracts inflated rail costs. Officials prematurely awarded contracts for Honolulu’s commuter rail line a decade ago to minimize public criticism and show the project was moving along. But this practice dramatically swelled costs as plans changed, a new audit of the vastly over-budget project said Thursday. Associated Press.

Unrealistic deadlines and the release of contradictory information due to a desire to minimize public criticism have resulted in cost overruns and delays to Honolulu’s 20-mile rail project, according to an audit released by the Hawaii Office of the Auditor on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Full text: Audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation: Report 1 is available here.

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School Board To Revote On Superintendent’s Contract — This Time Publicly. Concerns were raised after the board voted in executive session to reward the state superintendent with an additional contract year. Civil Beat.

Homelessness Coordinator Touts Progress As Lawmakers Criticize Pace Of Work. Hawaii homelessness has decreased two years in a row, said Scott Morishige, but legislators contend the administration isn’t spending money fast enough. Civil Beat.

Hawaii completes modernization of state payroll system. Hawaii's state payroll system has finally moved into the 21st century, with Gov. David Ige announcing on Thursday that all state employees have successfully transitioned to a new system as part of a $17 million modernization project. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s tax revenue projection adjusted for slower growth. The reduction means the state might have $55 million less to spend than expected. Associated Press.

State legislators will have to work with a smaller budget than had been anticipated just two days ago. The Council on Revenues lowered its state general fund forecast by .8 percent Wednesday, retreating from a 5 percent growth projection in September to 4.2 percent. Garden Island.

State lawmaker to reintroduce bill to ban plastic straws, Styrofoam containers. Hawaii tried to ban plastic straws and Styrofoam containers, but failed, last year. Senator Mike Gabbard, who introduced the 2018 bill, plans to reintroduce the idea when the Legislature convenes this session. KITV.

Hawaii military plans for space defense race. The United States and other nations are now acting with haste to protect their space-based assets. That priority was highlighted at a Chamber of Commerce Hawaii Military Affairs Council annual meeting Thursday at the state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines carried an all-time high of 11,840,178 passengers in 2018 amid a fleet expansion that helped generate a seventh straight year of record visitor arrivals to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu Elections Division is standing by its policy of accepting mail-in ballots from the U.S. Postal Service after 6 p.m. on Election Day, despite a challenge by defeated City Council candidate Tommy Waters that argues those votes should not be counted. Star-Advertiser.

Scandal that’s ensnarled police, prosecutor’s office takes another turn: Investigating a drug trafficking ring. An officer’s anticipated guilty plea Friday in connection with a widening public corruption case against former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife will also take the case in an entirely new direction — one that ties Katherine Kealoha to a prescription drug trafficking ring. Hawaii News Now.

Trump’s Border Wall Could Imperil $345M Ala Wai Canal Flood Control Project. The president is considering declaring a national emergency and taking funds from Army Corps of Engineers projects. Associated Press.

State tours possible relocation site for the encampment at Waianae boat harbor. Oahu’s biggest homeless village could be moving to a piece of state land in Waianae. Hawaii News Now.

The H3 Freeway Kaneohe-bound will be closed between the Halawa Interchange and the Kaneohe Interchange for filming of Magnum P.I. KHON2.

Despite the news of its upper grades closing at the end of the school year, Saint Francis School alumni remain hopeful they might be able to save the 94-year-old institution. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A circuit court judge ordered the county jail’s warden to court for a second time after a pretrial murder detainee who was previously erroneously released from custody wasn’t brought to court for a recent hearing. West Hawaii Today.

The probe into the mistaken release five months ago of an accused murderer is ongoing, but the Department of Public Safety says it has worked to modify and strengthen procedures to prevent a repeat of the flub. West Hawaii Today.

Officials share memories of old Hilo jailhouse. The impending demolition of the old Hilo County Jail brought together public safety officials and local dignitaries Thursday to share memories of the historic building. Tribune-Herald.

State and local officials attended an event at the Old Hilo Jail building off Waianuenue Avenue on Thursday, to share stories on the vacant structure before demolition begins in the coming weeks. Big Island Video News.

The state Department of Health has confirmed a new case of rat lungworm disease in an infant from Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

$600K Contract for Haiku Roadwork Begins. Road resurfacing and other work has started on Peahi and Pauwela roads in Haiku, according to the Maui County Department of Public Works. Maui Now.

The gates at the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge remain locked Wednesday morning. Signs posted say the refuge is closed due to “the lapse in federal appropriations.” Maui News.

The Napili Park Playground in West Maui is closed while crews complete repairs due to vandalism reported at the facility. Maui Now.

Kauai

Though the government shutdown is still ongoing, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided to return staff to wildlife refuges across the country to ensure access. Among them is Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Garden Island.

Thursday, January 10, 2019

Hawaii feeling the shutdown strain, sole GOP state senator affirmed by Supreme Court, Gabbard criticizing Democratic colleagues, bacteria closes Oahu beaches, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Honolulu International Airport ©2019 All Hawaii News
Shutdown strain could lead to longer airport lines. Working without pay for weeks. While the battle over the partial government shutdown takes place in Washington D-C, it's putting a strain on people here in Hawaii. KITV.

Impact in Hawaii likely to worsen as shutdown continue. The number of federal civilian employees in Hawaii that are either furloughed or working without pay 20 days after the government partially shut down has been tallied at some 2,741, according to website governing.com, which focuses on state and local government. Star-Advertiser.

Day 19: Federal workers in Hawaii take on side jobs, loans as shutdown drags on. Hawaii News Now.

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The State’s General Fund forecast for the current fiscal year was lowered less than one percentage point today, meaning there’s less money to spend in the upcoming legislative session. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected a challenge filed by defeated state Senate candidate Matt LoPresti, clearing the way for Kurt Fevella to be the state’s only Republican senator. Star-Advertiser.

Minimum Wage And Marijuana: What To Expect In The 2019 Hawaii Legislature. Lawmakers will tackle familiar issues like public school funding. They’re also likely to raise the minimum wage and might even legalize recreational marijuana. Civil Beat.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard took aim at Democratic colleagues, including U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, accusing them of religious bigotry in their questioning of Brian Buescher, a nominee to the U.S. District Court of Nebraska, in an opinion piece published by The Hill yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Childhood sexual abuse, drug use, violence and fractured families are among the common threads in the victim stories told to researchers examining the scope of sex trafficking in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

High bacteria levels at various beaches lead to closure of a popular spot. Due to the elevated levels, a city spokesperson said Hanauma Bay would be closed on Thursday. The upper viewing area, parking lot, and visitor center will remain open. Hawaii News Now.

Hanauma Bay will be closed Thursday after testing showed elevated levels of bacteria in the water. It's one of six separate areas of Oahu where high bacteria levels were found. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Chief increases patrol staff for the next few years. KHON2.

An erased crosswalk renews calls for safer roads after elderly man’s death. It was Oahu’s first traffic fatality of the year. Hawaii News Now.

"Put the crosswalk back on Hawaii Kai Drive," residents urge the city after a man dies in the area. KHON2.

The tail section of a crashed Hawker Hunter fighter jet -- with its engine and "black box" -- was recovered in about 265 feet of water Monday off Kewalo Basin, the Coast Guard said. Star-Advertiser.

Non-Profits Contribute Funds, Staff to Keep Pearl Harbor Open During Shutdown. Hawaii Public Radio.

The International Market Place — more than two years after opening a glitzy $500 million shopping complex in the heart of Waikiki — is redesigning its Kalakaua Avenue entrance to improve the flow of customers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


Despite perennial complaints about the cumbersome process of getting building permits, the head of that county division was elevated Wednesday to director of the Department of Public Works. West Hawaii Today.

David Yamamoto, a long-time County engineer, was confirmed as the new Director of Public Works by the Hawaii County Council during a meeting in Hilo on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

A pair of bills that appropriate millions of federal dollars to recover from 2018’s disasters passed their first readings by the County Council on Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

A priority list of Kilauea Volcano eruption recovery projects was provided to the Hawaii County Council today, as a bill to appropriate an early round of Federal Emergency Management Agency funds passed first reading. Big Island Video News.

Big Island officials are asking state lawmakers for $155 million to fund repairs and losses due to the Kilauea eruption. That’s on top of more than half a billion dollars in federal funding sought by the county and Big Island residents. Hawaii News Now.

When the new legislative session opens next week Hawaii County will ask the state for $155 million dollars to help with the Kilauea eruption recovery. KITV.

County Council members Wednesday held their noses and advanced a sewer rate hike few seemed to like, sending it to the council for two more votes. West Hawaii Today.

Federal class-action suit claims Lloyd’s, underwriters, defrauded Puna homeowners. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Department of Water Supply employees at a public meeting in Holualoa Wednesday evening fielded inquiries on a new 16-inch transmission line set to span 5,240 feet of Mamalahoa Highway between Water Pipe Road and Kamila Place. West Hawaii Today.

Other Spaceport Plans Crashed — Will This One Fly? The site of a proposed launch pad in Puna has not been revealed, but a preliminary possibility is described as “east or northeast of the macadamia nut farm.” Civil Beat.

Maui

The Maui Planning Commission has approved a settlement agreement between Maui County and the Kapalua Resort Association, which dismantled a rock wall on its property without permits in June 2017. Maui News.

The state Health Department said this morning it has ordered Maui Land & Pineapple Co. to pay a penalty of $230,000 for 15 wastewater effluent violations from the Haliimaile waste stabilization ponds on the Valley Isle. The company must also build a new wastewater treatment plant. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Health issued a Notice of Violation and Order against the Maui Land & Pineapple Company, Inc. for 15 alleged wastewater effluent violations from the Haliimaile waste stabilization ponds on Maui. The company has been ordered to pay a penalty of $230,000 and construct a new wastewater treatment plant. Maui Now.

Maui Land & Pineapple fined for wastewater violations. KHON2.

Department of Taxation special agents and state Deputy Sheriffs arrested today a former tax preparer in Lahaina for tax violations. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

On Kauai, election officials are preparing for a big experiment: All mail-in voting. Last year, Governor David Ige signed a law that allows Kauai County to distribute mail-in ballots to all registered voters for the 2020 primary and general elections. Hawaii News Now.

Knee-deep in keawe and spiders, about 15 sailors at the Pacific Missile Range Facility were on the hunt for albatross nests Wednesday morning, under the guidance of the base’s natural resource team and members of federal and state wildlife and land management agencies. Garden Island.

The opening of Kuhio Highway on the North Shore remains uncertain. In an update on emergency repairs to the road damaged in the April flooding, the Hawaii Department of Transportation said Wednesday there have been “unavoidable extensions in the project schedule.” Garden Island.

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Supreme Court mulls Honolulu election results, Kauai reaches 50% renewable power, Hawaii lawmaker joins drilling fight as tarballs surface on Big Island beach, whale count scheduled despite federal shutdown, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale breach  in Hawaii PC: Kohala Sail & Sea Michael Faughn
An annual effort to monitor humpback whale migration numbers in Hawaii will proceed as scheduled despite the shutdown of the federal government, a spokesperson for the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation said Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary's annual Ocean Count will take place January 26 despite the federal government shutdown. KHON2.

Mike Gabbard joins other lawmakers from coastal states to oppose offshore drilling. Associated Press.

New State Lawmakers and Their Priorities. There are 12 new state lawmakers for the upcoming session – 9 in the House and 3 in the Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. David Ige has chosen Jay Griffin to chair the Public Utilities Commission. Griffin has served on the three-member commission since May 2017. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige reappoints leaders for DOD, announces new appointees for 3 state departments. Two leaders at the helm of Hawaii’s Department of Defense are likely to continue their work after Gov. David Ige announced their reappointments to their positions Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Shutdown leaves Hawaii immigrant cases in limbo. The impasse in Washington has raised fears in Hawaii funding will end for federal benefits used by low income residents, for food, housing and much needed assistance. KITV.

Tensions rise between 2 of Hawaii’s Congressional leaders over ‘religious bigotry’ comments. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard appears to have “called out” Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono over her questioning of a judicial nominee, accusing her and others of religious bigotry. Hawaii News Now.

The Navy test-fired a series of new hypervelocity projectiles this past summer from the destroyer USS Dewey during Rim of the Pacific exercises off Hawaii that the Congressional Research Service said could be a “game changer” for defending warships against an increasingly sophisticated array of Chinese missiles. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Hawaii Supreme Court pressed election officials Tuesday for information on late-arriving absentee ballots in a dispute over Trevor Ozawa’s 22-vote victory in November for a seat on the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council candidate Tommy Waters says he is pleased that the Hawaii Supreme Court is asking more questions about how ballots were counted in his close race against incumbent Trevor Ozawa. Hawaii News Now.

A place for Iwilei homeless to shower, do laundry, pick up mail and receive other services opened Tuesday on Kuwili Street. Star-Advertiser.

After years of waiting, a hygiene center (and safe haven) opens in Iwilei. The rest stop is the first phase of a multi-million dollar project designed to help Iwilei’s homeless population. Hawaii News Now.

The homeless in Iwilei now have a place to shower, wash their clothes, and check their email. KITV.

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‘Go home’: Councilman has choice words for a Chinese developer that threatened to boycott Hawaii. It comes as the developer appears to have broken a key promise. A Chinese developer’s promise to hire hundreds of local, unionized construction workers at his Sheridan Street condo project appears to be in jeopardy. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines revises international check-in site for some passengers. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas’ foreclosed Hawaii Kai home goes on market for $1.3M. The Hawaii Kai home of retired Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his former city prosecutor wife, Katherine, is for sale while their lender forecloses on the property and the couple faces corruption-related charges. Associated Press.

Jim Nabors’ oceanfront Honolulu estate sells for $12M. Los Angeles Times.

Hawaii Island

Tarballs found in sands at Spencer Beach Park in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Squatters, homeless, vacation rentals, taxes and an emergency relief package in the wake of last year’s volcanic eruption top the priority list Mayor Harry Kim is presenting to the state Legislature this year. West Hawaii Today.

Joining The Parade Of Counties That Are Raising Taxes. Hawaii County tacks a 0.25 percent surcharge onto the general excise tax and considers going higher. Civil Beat.

Courts and corrections officials modified their operations after an accused murderer was mistakenly released from the Hilo jail last summer, and the Hawaii island courts now send bail documents to the jail via email as well as having them hand-carried to the facility, state lawmakers were told Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

County officials shot down a bill that would require the county to establish a plan to control feral animals and waste at county facilities. Tribune-Herald.

Suit against Big Island Dairy settled. The suit was filed in 2017 in U.S. District Court in Honolulu by citizen group Kupale Ookala and the Center for Food Safety and was scheduled to go to trial this month. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Dairy Settlement Sets Dates For Closure, Cleanup. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The deadline for applications for Maui County boards, councils, commissions and committees has been extended to Jan. 15. Maui News.

1.2 acres in Kapalua set to be preserved as open space. A conservation easement for a 1.2-acre property in Kapalua that includes a trail in the area has been donated to the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust by the Sue D. Cooley Trust. Maui News.

Maui housing prices rose last year to a record for single-­family homes but still lagged a more than decade-­old high for condominiums despite a double-digit rise. Star-Advertiser.

Developer's plan for second Maui hotel triggers need for EIS. R.D. Olson Development’s plan to build a second limited-service hotel on Maui outlined in an environmental assessment last summer has triggered a requirement to prepare a more detailed environmental impact statement. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Kauai Fire Department Chief Robert Westerman is retiring before the end of the week, but the fire commission has not decided who his successor will be. Garden Island.

The Kauai Fire Commission is searching for a new fire chief, following the retirement of Chief Robert Westerman after 20 years of service. KHON2.

Kauai reaches goal of 50% renewable power. AES Corp. has completed a solar power plant on Kauai that can do something most renewable projects can’t: deliver power when it’s most needed. Star-Advertiser.

A 150-acre solar farm on the south side of the island was unveiled Tuesday. Garden Island.

New solar-plus-storage facility gets KIUC past 50% renewable generation. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has reached the next milestone in its pursuit of 100 percent renewable energy generation with the completion of the largest solar-plus-storage facility in the state. Pacific Business News.

Kauai home sales increase in 2018, prices rise 6%. Single-family home sales rose 8.17 percent in 2018 to 596 houses sold, from 551 houses sold in 2017. The median price of those homes was $699,500, which was a 5.98 percent increase from $660,000 in 2017. Pacific Business News.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Hawaii House updates sexual harassment policy, expired tax credit costs millions, audit says DLNR mismanaged land fund, security cameras for Waikiki, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo courtesy Hawaii House majority
Press conference on House sexual  harassment policy PC:House Majority
Hawaii’s House of Representatives has revamped its sexual harassment policy following pressure brought on by the #MeToo movement and resignation of former Rep. Joe Souki last year amid complaints by several women that he had made unwanted advances toward them, including sexual comments, touching and kissing. Star-Advertiser.

Why Critics Say New House Sexual Harassment Policy Doesn’t Go Far Enough. They say the policy is a  “good first step” that meets many national best practices, but it lacks an appeals process and requires secrecy even after cases are resolved. Civil Beat.

State House Unveils Workplace Harassment Policy. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii House of Representatives updates workplace harassment policy. KHON2.

House lawmakers proposing changes to harassment policy. State House lawmakers are vying to significantly revamp harassment policies at the Capitol. KITV.

House harassment policy can be found here.

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This Long-Expired High-Tech Tax Credit Is Still Costing Hawaii Millions. The state awarded $289.1 million in tax credits in 2016, including $16.3 million for a program that no longer exists. Civil Beat.

A multimillion-dollar state fund to acquire private land for conservation purposes has been poorly managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, hampering its effectiveness, accountability and transparency, according to a state audit. Star-Advertiser.

The state Board of Education last month voted behind closed doors to extend Superintendent Christina Kishimoto’s contract by one year, but a question has arisen about whether the action was proper. Star-Advertiser.

The State Department of Agriculture briefed members of the Senate today on some of its budget priorities. Hawaii Public Radio.

Filmmaker Settles Lawsuit After Hawaii Grants Him Tax Credits. Tim Chey had charged the state film office discriminated against him because it didn’t like his Christian-themed historical drama. Civil Beat.

By Land And Sea, The Shutdown Takes Its Toll On Hawaii. A recent study finds the latest federal budget impasse is hitting the islands especially hard. Civil Beat.

With the partial government shutdown now in its third week, federal employees in Hawaii are feeling the impacts. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Fifty new security cameras will be installed in Waikiki, to the delight of the Waikiki Neighborhood Board. KHON2.

A vintage military fighter jet that was ditched at sea off Kewalo Basin on Dec. 12 with the pilot ejecting seconds before has been located in pieces in about 300 feet of water, the Coast Guard said. Star-Advertiser.

Pearl Harbor Tour company owner says, "we're struggling" as government shutdown continues. KHON2.

After 94 years of educating Hawaii’s youth, Saint Francis School will close its middle and high schools at the end of the academic year in May, its board announced Monday, citing loss of financial assistance. Star-Advertiser.

Saint Francis to lay off dozens of teachers, do away with upper grades. Hawaii News Now.

St. Francis School closing grades 7 through 12. The 87th, and final graduation ceremony will be held on May 25th. KITV.

Home sales on Oahu dropped by 28 percent last month, compared to December 2017, even as the median price of single-family homes rose 5 percent to $788,000. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Big Island prosecutors dealt with what they consider an alarming number of domestic strangulation cases last year — more than 50. Tribune-Herald.

Community volunteers maintain, monitor deserted national park. It was 18 days ago a partial government shutdown took effect, closing and de-staffing places like Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park in South Kona and leaving them unguarded from public whim. West Hawaii Today.

As the partial government shutdown enters its third week – reportedly with no end in sight – the signs of a federal funding lapse are becoming apparent at Puuhonua o Honaunau. Big Island Video News.

The Department of Public Safety reports that the old Hilo County Jail (built in the 1890s) is set for demolition soon. Big Island Now.

Home sales slowed on Big Island last year, but Kilauea fails to stop prices from rising. Home sales on Hawaii’s Big Island declined by 7 percent in 2018, compared to the year before, but the eruption of Kilauea volcano failed to stop prices, buoyed by double-digit gains in December, from rising. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Some 1.2 acres of land in Kapalua, Maui will be preserved as open space along the Kapalua Coastal Trail due to a donation from the Sue D. Cooley Trust, the Hawaiian Island Land Trust announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Hemp growers see hope on horizon after change in federal law. Cannabis growers looking for the next big thing after CBD craze. Maui News.

Kauai

As Hawaii looks at ways to become more self-sufficient in food production, people on Kauai are planting seeds that will feed the community decades down the road. Garden Island.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden and Kauai Community College present their first collaborative event of 2019 in the ongoing Earth Matters public lecture series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday with a panel discussion, “Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change.” Garden Island.

Monday, January 7, 2019

Obama encourages next generation at East-West Center, former Lt. Gov. Tsutsui to head Maui farm venture, Ige works to fill Cabinet, Jim Nabors' home sold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Obama Foundation
Former President Barack Obama, courtesy Obama Foundation.
Former President Barack Obama stressed the importance of cultivating the next generation of leaders during a speech Sunday night at the East-West Center that harked back to his roots as a community organizer in Chicago. Star-Advertiser.

Obama: ‘We Have A Deficit of Leadership And We Need New Blood’. The former U.S. president launched a program in Hawaii this weekend aimed at nurturing future leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. Civil Beat.

Former President Obama speaks at UH Manoa for launch of foundation’s Asia-Pacific leadership program. Former President Barack Obama spoke at a private gathering Sunday at the East-West Center, his foundation's first major event in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Facebook video of Obama's address. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Is A Rising Progressive Star Despite Her Support For Hindu Nationalists. A possible run for president has prompted the Hawaii congresswoman to publicly distance herself while continuing to court them in private. Civil Beat.

Gov. Ige’s New Cabinet Is Still Almost Half Empty. He has made 11 appointments so far, and nine of the department heads are carryovers from his first term. Civil Beat.

The private money that’s keeping Hawaii’s national parks open is running out. Hawaii News Now.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii appear to have displaced timeshares as the third most sought-after lodging choice behind hotels and condominiums in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Public Safety violated federal law when it ignored a Halawa Correctional Facility inmate’s requests to engage in certain Native Hawaiian religious practices, according to a court ruling. Star-Advertiser.

Task Force Criticizes ‘Punitive Mentality’ Of Hawaii Criminal Justice System. The group opposes the construction of a bigger Oahu Community Correctional Center and calls for a new focus on rehabilitation. Civil Beat.

The Law Enforcement Standards Board is asking the state Legislature for additional time and money to create and implement statewide standards for training and certification of county and state law enforcement officers. Tribune-Herald.

State senators on Friday questioned why Gov. David Ige’s administration chose to file lawsuits over President Donald Trump’s immigration policies but declined to join in class- action litigation against drug manufacturers and distributors that are being blamed for the opioid epidemic across the country. Star-Advertiser.

Humane Society backs bill allowing dogs at restaurants. The Humane Society, along with its fellow animal rescue organizations on neighbor isles, is pushing for a bill this legislative session that would give restaurant owners the discretion to adopt dog-friendly policies. Star-Advertiser.

A new rule bans feeding and abandoning feral animals at small boat harbors statewide. Governor David Ige approved the rule in December 2018 in an effort to help protect native and endangered species being threatened by feral animals. KHON2.

The state Department of Accounting and General Services' annual small claims report shows the state paid $179,148.77 to resolve 174 claims during the last fiscal year. KHON2.

Oahu

Oahu home prices hit 2018 records amid slowing sales. The annual median price paid for a single-family home rose nearly 5 percent to a high of $790,000, and the annual median price paid for a condominium increased nearly 4 percent to a record $420,000. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline to Appeal Property Tax Assessments Approaching. Properties in several districts saw value increases around or above 10% last year, resulting in a higher tax bill for homeowners. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state senate candidate who's challenging his election loss calls Hawaii's recount law "unconstitutional." Matt LoPresti still holds out hope for a recount and he submitted a response to the Hawaii Supreme Court Friday. KITV.

State and city officials plan to temporarily postpone homeless sweeps a week before — and during — the upcoming annual Point in Time Count to try and ensure an accurate census of Oahu’s homeless population. Star-Advertiser.

Veggies Really Are Cheaper In Chinatown — If You Know How To Shop. The secret to bargain prices: An alternative network of local suppliers, low overhead, selling out daily and less fussiness about the perfect-shaped fruit or vegetable. Civil Beat.

New medical cannabis dispensary opening in Kaneohe. A new medical marijiana dispensary will be opening on the Windward side. KITV.

The sale of an oceanfront estate near Hawaii’s Diamond Head that belonged to the late Jim Nabors closed on Friday for $12 million to an undisclosed buyer. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Some $6.8 million in new fuel tax money barely survived a close County Council vote last month, but its future seems more assured now that the Department of Public Works has released a working list of resurfacing projects to be completed with the money. West Hawaii Today.

Keaau isn’t the only place the state has explored the idea of establishing a spaceport in recent years. Tribune-Herald.

A development expected to bring 450 units to Kailua-Kona is moving forward. Developers expect to file an application related to the project with the county’s Planning Department this week. West Hawaii Today.

The Thirty Meter Telescope keeps coming up in conversations at the Hawaii State Capitol. Big Island Video News.

National park closure creates sprawling consequences in, around Honaunau Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Developers seek to build 30-megawatt solar farms. The agreements require approval of the state Public Utilities Commission, and the documents were submitted for review Dec. 31. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Twenty-one businesses have asked the county to delay enforcement of the ban on foam containers until after they sell the last of their affected noodles, such as the popular Cup Noodles and Maruchan Instant Lunch. Maui News.

Mahi Pono could generate 1,000-plus jobs. Former lieutenant governor joins company, set to begin farming on 41,000 Maui acres, as new vice president. Maui News.

Former Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui will join Mahi Pono, LLC, as its Senior Vice President of Operations and will lead the farming venture on Maui. Maui Now.

Former Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui has been named senior vice president of operations of Mahi Pono LLC, the company that recently purchased 41,000 acres of former sugar cane land from Alexander & Baldwin Inc. Pacific Business News.

The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center on Maui is naming former state Sen. Jill Tokuda as its new executive director. Associated Press.

New Kahikinui renewable energy proposals sought. Process restarts after NextEra, Sempra efforts failThe Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is again seeking applicants for renewable energy projects in Kahikinui in southeast Maui after previous proposals, including one from a NextEra subsidiary, fell through. Maui News.

Kauai

Tourists Keep Coming To Queen’s Bath Despite The Deadly Danger. The county and a community association try to discourage visitors, especially during the wettest months, but tour books point the way. Civil Beat.

Anaina Hou Community Park’s new playground is open for business and already popular with local families, according to organizers. Garden Island.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden and Kauai Community College present their first collaborative event of 2019 in the ongoing Earth Matters public lecture series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday with a panel discussion, “Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change.” Garden Island.

Friday, January 4, 2019

Ige appoints Connors as attorney general, Honolulu officer cooperating with feds in police corruption case, Maui's new mayor takes office, Big Island water bottling plant unpopular, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Governor's Office
Attorney General appointee Clare Connors with Gov. David Ige PC:Governor's Office
Gov. David Ige has appointed Clare Connors, a prominent local attorney and experienced litigator, to serve as Hawaii’s next attorney general, replacing Russell Suzuki. Star-Advertiser.

Governor’s pick for attorney general is longtime litigator — who sometimes targeted state. Hawaii News Now.

Former assistant U.S. attorney picked to be Hawaii's new attorney general. KHON2.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige Thursday appointed Clare Connors as the state’s new attorney general. Pacific Business News.

Governor David Ige today announced the appointment of Clare Connors to be the attorney general of the State of Hawaii, subject to Senate confirmation. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige press release on appointment of Clare Connors as attorney general can be found here.

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‘I Feel The Energy’: Ed Case Returns To Congress. The Hawaii congressman is back in office after more than a decade. But things are very different. Civil Beat.

A key lawmaker Thursday accused the state Department of Education of lying about the size of the statewide backlog of repair and maintenance projects at Hawaii public schools. The DOE told lawmakers in January 2018 that the school repair and maintenance backlog was $293 million as of 2017, which was a significant drop from $392 million in 2010. However, later in the year DOE notified some lawmakers that the true backlog was $868 million. Star-Advertiser.

If You Thought Legislature Would Bury The Hatchet With Ige, Think Again. The House Finance Committee chair questions the trustworthiness and organizational structure of the governor’s administration. Civil Beat.

43 pedestrians died on Hawaii roadways in 2018. That’s more than the number killed in vehicles. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii cannabis advocates hope to work with state to set rules for hemp. While the federal government did pass the Farm Bill on December 20 making hemp and its products legal, there's still some confusion over how the state should set rules for this crop. KITV.

There’s a high probability an El Nino will form and persist through the winter and spring, bringing with it threats to corals and farming concerns as well as an increased risk of wildfires. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu-based electric utility Hawaiian Electric Cos. Thursday said it submitted the contracts for seven new solar-plus-storage projects across its service territory to the state Public Utilities Commission for review. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A Honolulu officer charged in the corruption case targeting Honolulu’s former police chief and his wife plans to change his plea to guilty. It’s a major development that could prove pivotal to prosecutors. Hawaii News Now.

One of the police officers indicted in a public corruption case involving former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine, has indicated he wants to change his plea. KHON2.

A Honolulu police sergeant charged in a corruption-related investigation targeting the department’s former chief and his former prosecutor wife is pleading guilty. Star-Advertiser.

The attorney for the Big Island firefighter wrapped up in the Kealoha conspiracy case said recent news stories about his client and the explicit messages he reportedly sent Katherine Kealoha are "salacious" and "irrelevant." KITV.

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A Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board committee Thursday recommended approval of a $7.5 million change order to settle a delay claim made by the company hired to build the rail project’s three Waipahu stations. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Is Short On Cops — And Seattle Is Poaching. Mainland police departments are making it easy for rookie and veteran officers to relocate. With 246 vacancies, the HPD may start doing the same. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council concerned after multiple recruits fired from Honolulu Fire Department. KHON2.

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The City and County of Honolulu is expanding its park security initiative to Windward Oahu and the North Shore. Starting Friday, crews will add locks to parking lots and comfort stations at 18 parks in an effort to prevent vandalism. Hawaii News Now.

Starting tonight, 59 city parks will be locked at night to curtail vandalism and illegal homeless activity. Star-Advertiser.

In the continuing effort to secure park facilities island-wide, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is expanding its securing parks initiative to District IV, including Windward Oahu and the North Shore (from Makapuu to Mokuleia). KHON2.

City expands securing parks initiative to 18 more parks. The initiative began in April 2018 with 25 parks in the urban Honolulu area. KITV.

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The president and CEO of Damien Memorial School is out after the institution’s owners cited conflicts in leadership style. Hawaii News Now.

Damien Memorial School announced today the appointment of Brother Brian M. Walsh to serve as president, replacing Wes Porter, who was the school’s leader the past 2-1/2 years. Star-Advertiser.

Sixth Howard Hughes condo goes on sale. The Koula condo tower will have 565 units and sit adjacent to the new Victoria Ward Park, where a pop-up LED flower garden now resides, on Auahi Street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Windward Planning Commission postponed action on a proposed bottling plant near Wailoa River State Recreation Area to a future meeting, but that didn’t stop dozens of Big Island residents from testifying against it during the panel’s Thursday meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Water protectors, environmentalists, and supporters of the new organization, Extinction Rebellion, spoke out against an application for a Special Management Area Use Permit to develop a potable water well and bottling facility in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is being partially staffed during the federal government shutdown thanks to a little help from its friends. Tribune-Herald.

Retired Hawaii physician Charman J. Akina has donated 135 acres of land in South Kona to The Nature Conservancy that will provide habitat for rare native wildlife and plants. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

In his first day on the job, new Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino went to work announcing that landfills will once again open on Sundays and that his office will convene groups addressing Native Hawaiian culture and economic diversity and bringing together environmentalists and the hospitality industry. Maui News.

Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino took the oath of office on Wednesday morning from 2nd Circuit Chief Judge Joseph Cardoza, with First Lady Joycelyn Victorino, other family members, Maui County Council members and dignitaries looking on. Maui Now.

The new Maui County Council elected Kelly King as chairwoman, Keani Rawlins-Fernandez as vice chairwoman and Tasha Kama as presiding officer pro tempore during the council’s first meeting of the term on Wednesday. Maui News.

Featuring several new faces and a majority of women for the first time, the Maui County Council officially took office on Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed a sixth supplementary emergency proclamation on Thursday for the County of Kauai, extending the emergency relief period for damages sustained during the April flooding. Garden Island.

Hawaii officials are planning to issue additional permits and extend the six-month trial period of pig hunting in a mountain area on Kauai. Associated Press.

Chipper Wichman, who has served as a backbone for the National Tropical Botanical Garden for 15 years, is turning over the position of chief executive officer and director to someone else. Garden Island.


Thursday, January 3, 2019

Nude photos link Big Island firefighter to Honolulu deputy prosecutor's phone, lobbyist first to get medical aid in dying prescription, Honolulu Council in disarray, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Jesse Ebersole, Katherine Kealoha
Feds recover nude photos on Kealoha’s phone. When Hawaii County firefighter Jesse Ebersole pleaded guilty last July to lying about his relationship with former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, the federal prosecutor said investigators found Ebersole’s name on some of Kealoha’s credit card charges and had records of phone conversations between the two. Star-Advertiser.

Evidence of affair between Katherine Kealoha and firefighter included sexually explicit photos. The affair between ex-police chief Louis Kealoha’s wife and a Big Island firefighter was already one of the more salacious aspects of the ongoing case against the Kealohas. Hawaii News Now.

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He Fought For Hawaii’s Aid In Dying Law. Now He Wants To Use it. Prominent Honolulu lobbyist John Radcliffe, whose colon cancer has spread, became the first state resident Wednesday to start the application process. Civil Beat.

John Radcliffe became the first Hawaii patient with terminal cancer to request a lethal prescription to end his life under the state’s new medical- aid-in-dying law. Star-Advertiser.

Cancer patient John Radcliffe poised to be come first to use medical aid-in-dying law. KHON2.

Terminal cancer patient and medical aid-in-dying advocate John Radcliffe, today went on record as Hawaii’s first individual to request a prescription for aid-in-dying medication under a new law that took effect on Jan. 1. Maui Now.

It’s now law, but ‘Death With Dignity' still faces opposition while supporters push for acceptance. The day after Hawaii’s ‘Our Care, Our Choice Act' went into effect, supporters of the controversial medical aid in dying law said they’re making progress in getting hospitals to honor patients’ end of life decisions. Hawaii News Now.

Medical-aid-in-dying law gets a web page. State DOH sets up site to answer questions, provide required forms. Maui News.

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Masagatani, Aila Retained To Lead Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Governor David Ige on Wednesday announced that he is reappointing the director and deputy at Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Video News.

A Hawaii delegation recently returned from the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poland. Despite President Trump’s announcement to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement, Hawaii and 16 other states committed to abide it. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Attorney General is opposing a change that a 92-year-old Native Hawaiian princess has made to her trust to ensure her wife receives $40 million and all her personal property. Associated Press.

The state is looking for information on how to operate housing programs over the next 20 years. To gather data, the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation will be calling homeowners and conducting phone surveys for the Hawaii Housing Planning Study. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines has moved one step closer to starting its long-promised service from the Mainland to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Council delays picking leaders, assignments and schedule. The turmoil is caused by legal challenges against the election of Trevor Ozawa, who won re-election to the Council District 4 seat by beating former state Rep. Tommy Waters by 22 votes. Star-Advertiser.

Most of Honolulu’s city council has been sworn in, but one seat is still open (technically). That's because the Hawaii Supreme Court is still reviewing Trevor Ozawa's 22-vote victory over opponent Tommy Waters. Hawaii News Now.

City Council meeting in recess, Supreme Court issues another order. District 4, from Hawaii Kai to Ala Moana Beach Park, will have to wait longer for a City Council representative. The Supreme Court issued another order Wednesday that gives election challengers more time. KHON2.

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Honolulu Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga wants to crack down on people who abandon their cars on Oahu, but city officials say her proposed solution wouldn’t work. Civil Beat.

Honolulu police and prosecutors declined to press charges against Bobby Curran following the local sports broadcaster’s Dec. 27 arrest for allegedly assaulting his 15-year-old son. Star-Advertiser.

The Ritz-Carlton’s ocean-facing skyscrapers are glaring bright all night, every night. For more than two years, the residents of the Four Paddle condominiums on Kuhio Avenue have been blinded by the light. Civil Beat.

One project that will get more attention in the new year in Honolulu is a plan to build a bridge over the Ala Wai canal. The proposal would include room for pedestrians and for cyclists, but not for cars. Hawaii Public Radio.

It was business as usual for most federally funded tourist attractions in Hawaii Wednesday despite the partial government shutdown continuing for the 12th day. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Leilani Estates Community Association plans to drop its lawsuit against Hawaii County over control of Leilani Avenue. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island residents have the opportunity to participate in a series of training courses later this month to assist the county in responding to emergencies, in case 2019 proves as turbulent as 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Public access lacking – Kaupulehu project coming to County Council. It’s taken 20 years to get this far, but full build-out of the 1,079-acre Kaupulehu project in North Kona may need 20 more. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

During the first half of fiscal year 2019, the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development issued more than $9 million in grant funds to various local organizations. Maui Now.

Kapalua Golf's Plantation Course on Maui, which regularly ranks as one of the best golf courses in the world, will temporarily close on Feb. 11 to undergo a multimillion-dollar enhancement project aimed at revitalizing the 27-year-old sports facility. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Recent rains didn’t damage or delay the rebuilding project on Kahiliholo Road and the project is on schedule, according to county officials. Garden Island.

State officials are gearing up to extend trial pig hunting on Nounou Mountain (Sleeping Giant) after a six-month trial hunt yielded 13 harvests, and more archers are signing up. Garden Island.

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Hawaii tourism depends on vacation rentals, Honolulu council leadership questioned in election dispute, new laws in effect, Molokai mule trail closed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii beach scene ©2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Addicted To Airbnb: Hawaii’s Tourism Economy Depends On Illegal Vacation Rentals. While calls for a crackdown on short-term rentals grow louder, their rapid expansion accounts for a big chunk of the recent growth in the state’s largest industry. Civil Beat.

When the final numbers roll in for 2018, it's likely to be another record year for visitor arrivals to Hawaii. But as people consider what that sector may look like in 2019 and beyond, there may be a developing niche: medical tourism. Hawaii Public Radio.

Medical aid in dying law takes effect. For the first time, certain terminally ill patients in Hawaii will have the right to end their lives, but it won’t be easy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Medical Aid In Dying Law Now In Effect, Guidance Issued. Big Island Video News.

Fake service dogs, foam food containers and equal pay: These laws took effect Jan. 1. Hawaii News Now.

New laws address pay gap, sexual assault. Beginning today, employers are prohibited from asking prospective hires about their salary and wage history under a new law that seeks to help bridge the gap between how much men and women earn. Star-Advertiser.

Employers in Hawaii no longer will be allowed to inquire about prospective employees’ salary histories thanks to a law passed in July. Tribune-Herald.

Some road shoulders to open for motorcycles. In the new year, motorcyclists in Hawaii might have their travel time reduced by a law that will designate the shoulders of some roads as traversable by motorcycle. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmakers: After a noisy start to the new year, it’s time to crack down on illegal aerials. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: No, Killing A Special Fund Doesn’t Kill People. Some state agencies need to understand that the money in these funds isn’t “their” money. It comes from taxpayers. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Three topics sure to grab headlines in 2019 are the city’s rail project as construction moves through the congested downtown corridor; the housing crisis as policy makers wrestle with vacation rental laws and monster home rules; and the federal investigations involving Honolulu’s former police chief, his ex-prosecutor wife and the city prosecutor.  Star-Advertiser.

Council leadership remains in question. City Council members and their aides on Monday were trying to figure out ways to deal with the possibility that Councilman Trevor Ozawa may not be sworn in for a new term on Wednesday, the same day he had been expected to be voted Council chairman by his colleagues. Star-Advertiser.

On the eve of inauguration day for the Honolulu City Council, there's a big question mark hanging over the District 4 seat. The Supreme Court is weighing in after an opponent filed a challenge. With that Supreme Court decision pending, and the race not certified, Councilman Trevor Ozawa may not be sworn into office. KHON2.

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa may miss being sworn in to another term on Wednesday along with his colleagues if the Hawaii Supreme Court is still undecided on a legal challenge to his election win. Civil Beat.

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The state attorney general is opposing a change made to Abigail Kawananakoa’s trust that ensures her wife will receive $40 million and all of her personal property. Star-Advertiser.

Community leaders in Leeward Oahu are voicing opposition to the Palehua Wind project proposed for the Waianae range above their homes. Star-Advertiser.

Watch your water bills. That's the warning from some Pearl City residents who caught the Board of Water Supply billing them for more water than they used. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

The owner of the Hilo Farmers Market submitted plans last month for permanent canopies over the open-air market in an attempt to comply with the county’s fire, building and zoning codes. Tribune-Herald.

The long-discussed East Hawaii Organics Facility will be constructed on the north side of the W.H. Shipman Business Park in Keaau, and will have no significant impact according to the final environmental assessment document published for the project. Big Island Video News.

A discharge of about 66,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater was discharged into the ocean this weekend at the county’s Kulaimano wastewater treatment plant in Pepeekeo. Tribune-Herald.

The Vog Is Gone — For The First Time In Decades. Kilauea didn’t just stop spewing lava. It ceased emissions that have been constant since 1983. Civil Beat.

Maui

Since securing support from her colleagues, Council Member Kelly King has been the de facto chair of the incoming Maui County Council, making decisions on the inauguration ceremony, proposing committees and even moving into the chair’s office on Monday. Maui News.

A year of climate and political change 2018. Storms of all persuasions, even an actual firestorm, descended upon the county. Maui News.

Unlike past government shutdowns, Haleakala National Park is still open. Access to most areas continues, services limited. Maui News.

Maui County’s purchase of 262 acres of A&B agriculture land in the lower Pulehu/Omaopio area of Kula has closed escrow, according to information released today by the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. Maui Now.

Maui County purchases 262 acres from Alexander & Baldwin. Maui County closed on a $6 million purchase of 262 acres of Alexander & Baldwin’s agriculture land in the lower Pulehu/Omapio area on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Reopening the Road to Haena. This past April, Kuhio Highway on Kauai’s North Shore was devastated by heavy flooding. Road repairs are now nearing completion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Though the U.S. Navy recently announced it was moving forward with testing and training in the Hawaii-Southern California training area, the public still has a chance to weigh in on some other pending training. Garden Island.

Molokai

A steep trail to the remote Kalaupapa settlement in Hawaii has been closed indefinitely after a landslide took out a bridge along one of the switchbacks. Associated Press.