Hawaii could become sanctuary state, corruption charges rampant in Honolulu, state cuts Canada and Europe tourism budgets, Maui corporation counsel on leave following arrest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Moana Park ©2019 All Hawaii News

Organizers of Ala Moana park forum call for more transparency. Officials with Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration have agreed to attend a meeting tonight hosted by groups that have raised concerns about planned improvements at popular Ala Moana Regional Park. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s your chance to sound off on the future of Ala Moana Beach Park. Several community groups are teaming up to discuss the future of Ala Moana Beach Park. On Monday, a public meeting will be held to go over the city’s master plan for the popular destination. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii would become the second “sanctuary state” for tax-paying undocumented immigrants with no criminal convictions under a bill that would give local law enforcement agencies the option to not cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Tourism Authority shifts focus to managing tourism. The message at the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s first statewide event under new leadership was more about how the agency is going to partner with the industry to manage tourism rather than its marketing plans. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is cutting marketing budgets for Canada and Europe and reinvesting funds into other priorities, including diversifying and managing tourism and programs that benefit the community. Star-Advertiser.

Phillipine court rules against Hawaii's Omidyar's media ownership. A Philippine appeals court has upheld a decision that an online news site critical of President Rodrigo Duterte violated a constitutional ban on foreign ownership of news media. Associated Press.

David Ige Unwinds And Chats About Hawaii’s Future. He said he’s learned a lot since 2014 about running the state government, and cites progress on housing, homelessness and education. Civil Beat.

House Passes Bill To Expand County Use Of GE Tax. The House passed a bill on third reading that would give the neighbor islands greater flexibility in how they spend general excise tax surcharge revenue. Big Island Video News.

HMSA’s payment rates under scrutiny. Nearly three years after the Hawaii Medical Serv­ice Association changed the way it pays primary- care doctors and pediatricians, lawmakers are considering funding a study to see whether the program is actually saving money and improving quality. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

How An Accused Drug Dealer Became Key To The Biggest Corruption Case In Honolulu History. A 2015 drug raid highlights the many angles federal investigators are pursuing as part of a years-long corruption investigation. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council on Friday unanimously approved a $550,000 settlement in a decade-old lawsuit that alleges Police Chief Susan Ballard played a role in altering test scores of some police academy recruits. Civil Beat.

The Kealohas Could Lose Their Taxpayer-Funded Lawyers. With the sale of their Hawaii Kai home pending final approval, federal prosecutors have asked a judge to review whether the couple can afford their own defense counsel. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Council OKs Legal Fees For Embattled Prosecutor. The Honolulu City Council Friday approved hiring a law firm to represent the city's prosecutor against an impeachment effort launched when he became a target in a federal corruption investigation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Yet Another Audit Planned For Honolulu Rail Project. The City Council wants to investigate potential criminal activity surrounding the fiscally troubled transit project. Civil Beat.

New city council bill would limit events on busy Kalakaua Ave. If the bill becomes law, events this year won't be affected but activities in 2020 might. KITV.

House bill seeks to protect pedestrians from bicyclists behind state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

Pearlridge moves toward mixed-use development. The owner of Pearlridge Center is considering residential and hotel development at the Aiea mall. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit Claims HPD Officer Sexually Assaulted Woman. When two police officers responded to a drunken disturbance in her home, the plaintiff claims that one of them assaulted her in her bedroom. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

A proposed charter amendment advanced Friday requires the county to sock away $20 million for disasters such as have hammered the Big Island in recent years. West Hawaii Today.

Kuahiwi Ranch among public water users that face uphill battle to earn long-term leases. The ranch is one of about a dozen water users, including Alexander & Baldwin, the electric utilities and farming operations throughout the state, that are facing an end-of-the-year deadline to convert state water permits into long-term leases — or risk losing access to water. Star-Advertiser.

Purgatory in Puna: Eruption survivors eager to return home — with or without roads. Tribune-Herald.

Changes to Wailani project approved. A long-delayed mixed-use development in Hilo inched closer to fruition last Thursday after the Windward Planning Commission approved several changes to the project plan. Tribune-Herald.

Boaters want better: Public hearing brings out testifiers wanting improvements if fees are going up. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Avocado Association is up in arms about what members have described as chronic mislabeling of Sharwil avocados at the West Hawaii Safeway located off Henry Street. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Corporation Counsel Wong is placed on leave following arrest for physical abuse. Spokesman: Wong has been charged with abuse of a household member, a misdemeanor. Garden Island.

Maui County Corporation Counsel Patrick K. Wong was placed on administrative leave after being charged Saturday with abuse of a household member, the county said. Star-Advertiser.

Top civil attorney for Maui County arrested for domestic abuse. Hawaii News Now.

Corporation Counsel Patrick Wong on Administrative Leave. Maui Now.

Maui County's Corporation Counsel charged with abuse. KHON2.

Maui County corporation counsel Patrick Wong on administrative leave. KITV.

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Repairing Hana’s bridges will require plenty of ingenuity. Six of 43 historic structures in plan are on challenging terrain. Maui News.

Maui-style airport car rental facility is about ready to roll. Plantation meets modern at CONRAC: Two trains, or trams, will take travelers on a 4-minute ride from baggage area to facility. Maui News.

Maui home, condo prices rise more than 10% in February. Single-family home prices on Maui rose by more than 15 percent last month, compared to February 2018, while the number of homes sold dropped by nearly 20 percent, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

“A slow resurrection.” Those are the best words to describe how groups of volunteers and benefactors have transformed a crumbling camping facility located in the crisp air of Kokee State Park into a clean, attractive and safe resource for groups of every age and size. Garden Island.

Hawaii infrastructure gets low marks, Kaneshiro takes paid leave amid federal probe, House passes pot decriminalization, entangled whale freed off Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Walking along Diamond Head Road ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s infrastructure gets D+ in yearly report from engineers society. Most of the Aloha State’s infrastructure systems are in poor to fair condition. The report card recommends the state Legislature increase the state gas tax and support “innovative funding mechanisms” to pay for a backlog of repairs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's infrastructure received its first report card today and more than half of grades were below passing. The 2019 Report Card covers 11 infrastructure categories.  And of those categories, 5 are in mediocre condition and six are in poor condition or already at risk. Hawaii Public Radio.

Report: Majority of Hawaii’s infrastructure operating ‘beyond its useful life’. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's infrastructure given D+ grade from civil engineers. Poor to fair, that's what the American Society of Civil Engineers Hawaii section ranked most of Hawaii's infrastructure on Thursday, giving an overall grade of “D+.” KHON2.

Most of Hawaii’s infrastructure systems, including those for roads, schools, drinking water and stormwater, are in such poor condition that the local chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers has given the state an overall grade of “D-plus” on an inaugural report card. Pacific Business News.

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House Votes To Decriminalize Possessing Small Amounts Of Pot. The measure that now goes to the Senate would apply to having 3 grams of marijuana or less, which still could result in a $200 fine. Civil Beat.

The state House of Representatives passed a bill today that would decriminalize the adult use of marijuana, which is currently illegal under federal law. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis passed the state House of Representatives and will now go before the state Senate. Tribune-Herald.

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Unanimous vote in State Senate clarifies rules on how to use crosswalk signals. There was a unanimous vote in the State Senate Thursday clarifying rules on how to use crosswalk signals with countdown timers. KITV.

Hawaiian Airlines said Thursday it would award $31 million in profit- sharing and performance bonuses to employees following what was an “exceptional” 2018. Star-Advertiser.

Local Dairies Could Solve Future Milk Shortages, But It's An Expensive Venture. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro said Thursday he would take a voluntary paid leave effective immediately. He was notified last year that he was a target of a federal investigation into government corruption, and has faced pressure from Attorney General Clare Connors and Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard to step down. Star-Advertiser.

Embattled Honolulu Prosecutor Takes Immediate Leave Of Absence. Keith Kaneshiro is a target in a wide-ranging corruption investigation. His removal was sought by the state attorney general. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro announced Thursday he is taking a leave of absence from his office. His action follows reports that he is a target in an ongoing federal corruption investigation and subsequent calls for him to step down. Hawaii Public Radio.

After refusing to step aside for months, embattled city prosecutor takes leave amid federal probe. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu's prosecutor is taking a leave of absence from his office, a month after confirming he received a target letter in connection with a federal investigation. KHON2.

Kaneshiro takes a leave of absence amid federal investigation. Dwight Nadamoto will serve as Acting Prosecuting Attorney. KITV.

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City Poised To Pay $550,000 To Cop Who Claimed HPD Doctored Test Scores. A lawsuit alleges Police Chief Susan Ballard, while commander of the police academy in 2008, took part in making it easier for recruits to pass. Civil Beat.

Pali Highway fix expected to be done in August. It’s going to be a long road ahead — another five months at least — before Pali Highway is fixed and reopened following last month’s rockslide. Star-Advertiser.

$15 milion price tag to repair the Pali Highway. Heavy rains last month triggered multiple landslides along the Pali Highway. KITV.

Kakaako intersection may turn into roundabout to accommodate Rail. "HART" is planning to put a rail column in the middle of the road on Queen and Waimanu streets, along with a roundabout. This is the area next to South Shore Market and TJ Maxx. KHON2.

A year in, mobile hygiene center demonstrates the incredible power of a shower. The mobile hygiene center travels to different communities across Oahu up to five days a week. Hawaii News Now.

Homeless man accused of West Oahu wildfires had been arrested 30 times before. Hawaii News Now.

Council Member Wants Audit of Hawaiian Humane Society. Ann Kobayashi said she was stunned by how many key employees had left the Humane Society under its current CEO. Civil Beat.

The abrupt shutdown scheduled today for Argosy University- Hawaii will leave about 800 graduate and under­graduate students in the lurch, midway through the semester. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Salary Commission approves new rules to slow down raise-setting process. Slow and steady is the name of the game for the county Salary Commission, which on Thursday revised its rules and received updates on collective bargaining agreements, private sector pay scales and county finances, but took no action on salaries for top management. West Hawaii Today.

Proposal for water-bottling plant killed. A proposal for a new water-bottling plant near Wailoa State Recreation Area was resurrected briefly before being definitively killed again at Thursday’s meeting of the Windward Planning Commission. Tribune-Herald.

A permit to allow the construction of a water bottling facility in Hilo was denied by the Windward Planning Commission on Thursday. Big Island Video News.

Kona pool down 6 to 7 months. After almost being shut down for a full week, Hawaii County officials expect Kona Community Aquatics Center to remain closed for six to seven months until a new filter system can be installed. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Two tourism reports for January indicate a softening of the Maui market with visitor spending down nearly 14 percent from last January and hotel revenue and average daily rates off across the board. Maui News.

A new study from financial technology company, SmartAsset, ranks the Waihee-Waiehu area of Maui as the most affordable place to live in Hawaii. Maui Now.

70 Waikapu affordable housing units offered. Waiale Elua applications due by March 29. Maui News.

Team cuts 500 feet of fishing gear from emaciated juvenile whale off Maui.  NOAA says five entangled whales have been spotted in Hawaii in the past week. Four of them were off Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Entangled Humpback Whale Freed of Gear Off Maui. An estimated 500 feet of heavy gauge line was removed from an entangled humpback whale off Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Nearly a year after April floods triggered a sinkhole and washed out a portion of Kahiliholo Road, residents are celebrating its reopening. But they’re also wondering what took so long. Garden Island.

Esaki’s Produce doesn’t usually fly their shipments to Kauai, normally relying on Matson to transport them via boat in deliveries that are made twice a week — Tuesdays and Fridays. But, for the past two weeks, Esaki’s has been shipping its wares in through Hawaiian Airlines to combat about a month of delayed shipping at sea. Garden Island.

Election reform, involuntary psychiatric commitment, fireworks bills advance in Legislature, state auditor cancels rail contract, battle over taxpayer-funded ex-police chief defense, heavy metals found near East Hawaii schools, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Keiki day at the Capitol PC:House Majority Office

Keiki rallied at the Capitol Wednesday for children's issues. Advocates rallied at the Capitol Wednesday to support active bills regarding children's health, safety and education in the state Legislature. KHON2.

Hawaii parents, pushing to make it more affordable took their message to the State Capitol Wednesday morning calling on lawmakers to invest in our keiki and make early child care and pre-school available for all families. KITV.

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Hawaii’s economic growth expected to rebound. The ongoing slow growth of Hawaii’s economy is expected to pick up slightly this year after easing last year, according to a new state forecast. Star-Advertiser.

Economy Projected To Grow At Slower Pace Than U.S. Average. The latest economic growh report, released today by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, shows the state economy expanded by 0.7 percent from January to September, lower than the 2.8 percent for the U.S. average over the same time period. Hawaii Public Radio.

Read DBEDT's quarterly economic report.

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Hawaii lawmakers pass automatic recount, voter registration. Hawaii lawmakers have passed several bills to make it easier to vote and boost confidence in elections. Associated Press.

The State House of Representatives unveiled its election reform bills that crossed over to the Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers in both houses of the Hawaii state Legislature appear ready to approve a proposal which would institute automatic recounts in closely contested elections. The legislation, which will require a constitutional amendment approved by voters, was pushed forward at the Capitol as a reaction to the state Supreme Court being thrust into action following the 2018 general election. Hawaii News Now.

Many Climate Change Bills Are Still Alive, Including A Carbon Tax. At the session’s halfway point, several new measures have support. But some current initiatives will expire if action isn’t taken. Civil Beat.

Fireworks bill targets property owners and allows video evidence. The use of illegal aerial fireworks has sky-rocketed in Hawaii. KHON2.

Bill Focuses On Revolving Door Of Involuntary Psychiatric Treatments. The measure would form a task force to find ways to make emergency mental health admissions more efficient, and better protect the public. Civil Beat.

Changes could make it easier to commit mentally ill to treatment. State lawmakers want to change the law, so that more mentally ill people can be forced into treatment. KITV.

Southwest Airlines has new fuel-efficient planes coming that would allow the carrier to add more destinations to its lineup of flights between Hawaii and the mainland, a spokesman said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kealoha lawyer seeks city funding for fees. An attorney for former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha on Wednesday urged the Police Commission to use taxpayer money to pay for the lawyers representing him in two federal criminal cases. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline approaches for City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro to respond to petition calling for his suspension. 19 days ago, state Attorney General Clare Connors filed a petition for extraordinary with the Hawaii Supreme Court, writing that Kaneshiro should not be allowed to serve as city prosecutor -- at least for the time being -- given his serious conflicts of interest as the target of a federal probe. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Auditor has canceled a contract with a company that was supposed to review change orders for the $9.2 billion Honolulu rail project, and it is unclear whether that report will ever be completed. Star-Advertiser.

Federal Probe Has State Looking To Pull Back On Rail Audits. Proposed legislation would repeal the requirement for more audits. But added scrutiny has already led state finance officials to withhold $40 million from HART. Civil Beat.

A rail station was changed to save money. Now, a do-over could cost millions. Hawaii News Now.

The reason for Oahu’s 20% drop in sheltered homeless? Far fewer shelter beds exist. The sharp decrease -- which led to a 4 percent drop in Oahu’s overall homeless population -- is being blamed on the closure of a transitional shelter shelter in West Oahu and on new government regulations that forced the state’s largest homeless service provider to reduce capacity. Hawaii News Now.

State senator films Maili brush fire, police standoff while riding bus. State Sen. Maile Shimbukuro happened to be riding TheBus home from the state Capitol and took photos of the large brush fire as the bus slowly moved through congested traffic. Star-Advertiser.

Business incubator unveiled in Kakaako. The developer of the “Entrepreneur’s Sandbox” held a blessing for the $7.3 million state-owned business incubation center, which was paid for by federal, state and private funding. Star-Advertiser.

Argosy University Students Advised To Prepare For Possible Friday Closing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Argosy University could close as soon as Friday. KHON2.

Oahu home prices make modest February gains. The Honolulu Board of Realtors on Wednesday released sales data that showed roughly 2 percent increases for median sale prices of single-family homes and condominiums last month. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home sales drop in February as median price posts gains. Home prices on Oahu posted modest gains in February, compared with a year ago, as sales of single-family homes declined by 4 percent and condominium sales dropped by 17 percent, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The state Department of Education and Department of Health are implementing environmental hazard management plans at 18 East Hawaii schools after a study found elevated levels of contaminants such as lead, arsenic and chlordane in the soil at those facilities. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Education has found elevated levels of lead, arsenic or chlordane in the soil at 18 of the 23 public schools it tested in eastern Hawaii island, mostly around the perimeters of old buildings. Star-Advertiser.

The Big Island’s only jail is going to get larger, but that’s just to better house its current population of inmates, not increase the inmate population. West Hawaii Today.

Opponents Will Try To Stop Geothermal Plant From Reopening. Even though the power facility damaged by last year’s lava flows is expected to be “operational” by year’s end, it’s facing challenges. Civil Beat.

More than a year after plans surfaced and fizzled for a pilot program to manage surf schools at Kahaluu Bay, businesses are still in the dark about how to get permits to teach wave riding at the popular spot. West Hawaii Today.

Home prices on Hawaii's Big Island jump in February. The median price of a single-family home on the Big Island in February was $382,000, an increase of 18.45 percent from $322,500 in February last year. Sales declined to 152 homes sold, 5 percent fewer than the 160 homes sold in February 2018. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County’s state lawmakers were divided over their support of House Bill 1326 as the controversial measure on revocable water permits crossed over to the Senate on Tuesday. Maui News.

More than 15 soon-to-be released or furloughed inmates incarcerated at the Maui Community Correctional Center recently completed approximately 56 hours of workforce industry training from the Office of Extended Learning and Workforce Development at the University of Hawaii Maui College. Maui Now.

Grand Wailea plans appear before design board. Suggestions offered for saving chapel, masking parking structure. Maui News.

Kauai

Taxis in the terminal. A tentative agreement was recently reached between Lihue Airport administrators and taxi drivers who were threatening to strike if their demands for a curbside presence at the terminal continued to be ignored. Garden Island.

Kauai waits for Southwest flights. Flights to and from Kauai haven’t yet been announced. Tuesday, Southwest Airlines spokesman Brad Hawkins said that’s in the works. Garden Island.

Home sales on Kauai drop in February. There were only 26 single-family homes sold on Kauai last month, a 50.94 percent drop from 53 homes sold in February 2018. The median price of those homes was $689,000, a 4.97 percent decline from $725,000 in February 2018. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

Maui County wants to hold Molokai event to obtain, renew TWIC credentials. People who pick up shipments at state harbors, such as Kaunakakai Harbor, need to present a TWIC card, and the County of Maui Office of Economic Development is stepping up to offer an event to help people obtain or renew this credential. TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential. KHON2.

Fraud in HI-5 recycling program, visitors can now get medical marijuana, Chinese hackers breach UH, lawmakers want to stop rail audits, excise tax hike advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Worker sweeps up cans at Hawaii recycling plant ©2019 All Hawaii News

State audit alleges cheating in redemption payments in Hawaii recycling program. The state still has not made changes in its HI-5 redemption and recycling program to protect against fraud, and spot checks of recycling companies turned up two cases where records were allegedly altered so the state would reimburse substantially more to a recycler than was paid out to the public, according to a new report by the Hawaii State Auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Audit finds instances of potential fraud at recycling redemption center. The findings of the audit prompted the state Health Department Tuesday to pledge greater oversight and to refer the findings of potential fraud to the state Attorney General’s Office. Hawaii News Now.

Audit Of HI-5 Recycling Program Finds Evidence Of Potential Fraud. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fraudulent receipts found in Hawaii’s Hi-5 recycling program, according to the latest state auditor’s report. KITV.

Read the audit summary.

Read the full audit.

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Senate Approves Proposed Tax Increase To Help Public Schools. The measure increasing the statewide general excise tax by 0.5 percent was one of many bills clearing their first chamber as the session’s midpoint nears. Civil Beat.

Senate passes GET hike. The state Senate passed a bill Tuesday increasing the general excise tax to help fund education. Tribune-Herald.

Senate passes bill to increase GE tax half percent. KHON2.

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State unveils process for visitors to obtain medical marijuana. The state Department of Health unveiled Tuesday the process by which out-of-state medical marijuana patients will be able to register for medical cannabis while visiting Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Out-of-state patients now able to get legal medical marijuana in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii opens medical marijuana registration to visitors. The state Department of Health announced Tuesday that it is also rolling out an online registration system for medical marijuana, allowing qualified patients to quickly obtain an electronic registration card. KITV.

Online Registration Accelerates Access to Medical Cannabis. Maui Now.

Medical cannabis program is expanding. Hawaii's medical cannabis program is expanding to give those visiting from out-of-state the chance to obtain marijuana for medical purposes. KHON2.

Decriminalizing marijuana among measures ‘crossing over’ at the Capitol. The crossover deadline for bills is this Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii dispensaries sold $12.6M worth of pakalolo for medical use last year. Monthly medical cannabis sales doubled last year, and the number is projected to grow with out-of-state patients now able to purchase it locally. Star-Advertiser.

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Who Should Run Hawaii’s Pre-K Program? School Superintendent Christina Kishimoto is arguing DOE needs to be more heavily involved in the expansion of Hawaii’s pre-K program. Civil Beat.

Legislature Approves Nearly 1,000 Bills (No Surprise, Some Propose to Raise Taxes). The State Legislature is at the one-third mark of its 60-day session.  Today, lawmakers met to pass nearly one thousand bills to be sent to the opposite chamber for further consideration. Hawaii Public Radio.

As the 2019 Legislative Session nears its crossover deadline this week, the House of Representatives has passed nearly 500 bills during a productive session focused on good government, homelessness, and education. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Homes Funding Debated In The House. Representative Gene Ward and Finance Chair Sylvia Luke went back and forth on the House floor Tuesday over the budget for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Video News.

A new bill would require labels on coffee blends to disclose the geographic origins and percent by weight of the blended component coffees. Big Island Video News.

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University of Hawaii among dozens of schools targeted by Chinese hackers seeking military research. The University of Hawaii is among more than 27 universities that have been targeted by Chinese hackers seeking to steal maritime technology research being conducted for the military, the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii and at least two dozen other universities have been targeted by Chinese hackers as part of an effort to steal military maritime technology research, The Wall Street Journal reported today. Hawaii Public Radio.

The University of Hawaii has been identified among more than two dozen universities around the globe that have been the target of Chinese hackers. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii among the universities hacked by Chinese. KHON2.

Chinese Hackers Target Universities in Pursuit of Maritime Military Secrets. University of Hawaii, University of Washington and MIT are among schools hit by cyberattacks. Wall Street Journal.

Editorial: OIP hinders public access to records. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Lawmakers aim to scale back state scrutiny of rail. House lawmakers gave preliminary approval Tuesday to bills that scale back the role of the Hawaii State Auditor in overseeing the Honolulu rail project, which is now the subject of a federal investigation. Star-Advertiser.

Federal Probe Has State Looking To Pull Back On Rail Audits. Proposed legislation would repeal the requirement for more audits. But added scrutiny has already led state finance officials to withhold $40 million from HART. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Board of Education offers open forum for public comments. The state Board of Education will offer an open forum at the end of its general business meeting Thursday at Mililani High School for members of the community to offer their thoughts. Star-Advertiser.

New proposal aims to strengthen crossing laws. Pedestrian fatalities are on the rise this year. With so many deaths, the city council is looking into ways to further protect pedestrians crossing the streets. KHON2.

Navy continues work on broken water main. U.S. Rep. Ed Case, who on Monday inspected the site of a break in a 42-inch pipeline that provides the main source of water for Pearl Harbor and other Navy properties, said he is urging senior Navy officials at the Pentagon to immediately implement an already appropriated replacement project. Star-Advertiser.

'Afraid for our lives’: The ocean is eating away at a major road in Hauula. Hawaii News Now.

Builder sues Kakaako developer for unpaid work. The developer of Ward Village is embroiled in another legal dispute over construction of a condominium tower in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation in Kailua-Kona Monday evening held the first of several public hearings planned across the state to discuss fee increases at Hawaii small boat harbors and some other facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Leilani sees progress in effort to stymie squatters. The president of Leilani Community Association and the chairman of a committee formed to deal with squatters and resultant crime say progress has been made since they and police united late last year to clear illegal occupants from vacant homes in the lower Puna subdivision ravaged by Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Mohouli Heights development enters third phase. Construction started on a project that will double the size of a Hilo housing development for low-income seniors. Tribune-Herald.

Mohouli Heights Senior Neighborhood Phase 3 Begins. 92 additional low income senior rental housing units are now under construction, officials say. Big Island Video News.

No future likely for popular Kainaliu turnaround. A petition signed by about 200 people is asking Mayor Harry Kim’s administration to reopen a popular Kainaliu turnaround that helped drivers negotiate left turns on busy Mamalahoa Highway. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Department of Public Works expects to complete resurfacing a portion of South Kihei Road by March 6, 2019, and help relieve recent traffic impacts. Maui Now.

The Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation is accepting applications for park security officer jobs until Sunday, March 10. Maui Now.

Kauai

Retired Las Vegas police captain selected as new Kauai police chief. Todd Raybuck, a former Las Vegas Metropolitan Police captain, has been hired as the new Kauai police chief, the Kauai Police Department announced today. Star-Advertiser.

New police chief selected. The Kauai County Police Commission selected Todd Raybuck, a former Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Captain, as the new KPD police chief. Garden Island.

Kauai Police Commission selects a Las Vegas captain as new police chief. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai's new police chief comes to garden island from ninth island. KHON2.

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Kuleana lots on Zuckerberg estate draw crowd. People from all over the state — attorneys, politicians, activists, journalists and curious residents — arrived at an entrance to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s 700-acre estate on the North Shore for an opportunity to look at the four kuleana lots scattered across the property to be sold at public auction later this month. Garden Island.

Low fares, fast ticket sellouts mark Southwest's entry into Hawaii, Legislature nears halfway point, trash pickup fees mulled in Honolulu, medical marijuana mainly used for pain, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Southwest Airlines in Honolulu Feb 5, 2019 courtesy photo

Southwest’s low fares ramp up interisland competition. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest Selling Tickets For Hawaii Routes. Hawaii Public Radio.

“Hawaii, here we come!” declared Monday’s news release, announcing that tickets for Southwest Airlines service for the Hawaiian Islands are now on sale. Big Island Video News.

Southwest Airlines began ticket sales for Hawaii destinations on March 4, 2019. The newly-released flight schedule includes California to Hawai‘i, as well as interisland routes. One-way flights from Oahu to Maui were posted as low as $28. Big Island Now.

Southwest selling tickets to/from Hawaii, selling out fast. Southwest Airlines ticket sales and flight schedules are out and selling out. The airline says more services and special offers will be available in the coming weeks. KHON2.

Some travelers excited about $29 one-way Southwest Airlines ticket to neighbor islands. The long awaited airline's arrival is here, and now, you can officially book Southwest flights to and from Hawaii. KITV.

Price Comparison: Southwest Airlines Hawaii Ticket Prices vs. Competitors. Maui Now.

Southwest tickets to Hawaii are now on sale. Pacific Business News.

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Hawaii Expected To Join Other States To Block Trump Abortion Rule. Hawaii Public Radio.

This week marks the half-way point of the 2019 legislative session. This session has already seen every single marijuana bill introduced in the Senate die. KITV.

A controversial ban on single-use plastics is up for a vote at the state capitol. As the zero waste movement catches on, a key vote is set for Tuesday on a proposal to ban single-use plastics that are common in the food and beverage industry. Hawaii News Now.

Medical Marijuana is being used to treat a common problem in Hawaii. The state Health Department, which administers the medical cannabis registry program, said there were 24,070 valid registered medical cannabis users in Hawaii as of Jan. 31. The vast majority -- 20,426 -- said they were using the drug for “severe pain.” Hawaii News Now.

Legislature Considers Sex Abuse Investigation Of Catholic Church. The Hawaii House and Senate are also voting on separate proposals to eliminate the statute of limitations for child sex abuse claims. Civil Beat.

Ban fizzles; bill now addresses proliferation of illegal fireworks. A bill that would have banned nearly all consumer use of fireworks has gone up in smoke. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Prisons: ‘You Can’t Have A System Policing Itself’. A bill to establish an independent commission to oversee the state’s jails and prisons clears the House and heads to the Senate. Civil Beat.

Hawaii State Hospital administrator departing in May. The state Health Department announced today that William May, Hawaii State Hospital administrator, is leaving his post in early May. A national search is underway to find May’s successor. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New proposal seeks to charge Oahu residents for trash pick up. Honolulu is the only county where residents don't have to pay for trash pick up. That may change with a new proposal in the city council. KHON2.

Killing of escaped OCCC inmate draws scrutiny. The Department of Public Safety director failed to explain why DPS personnel placed a wounded inmate, shot Friday on a Kalihi street by a corrections officer, into a van and returned him to jail rather than render aid and wait for an ambulance. Star-Advertiser.

Annual homeless census’ leader resigns. Just a week after releasing early data on Oahu’s annual homeless census, the head of the organization that oversees the island’s annual Point in Time Count abruptly resigned, cryptically citing “undermining behaviors.” Star-Advertiser.

HPD chief says ‘temporary refuge areas’ could help Oahu’s homeless problem. With new data showing the number of people living on the streets of Oahu at a 10-year high, Honolulu police chief Susan Ballard is speaking out, offering new solutions aimed at helping the island’s homeless. Hawaii News Now.

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Trial postponed for Kealoha’s treatment. Former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha has gotten another trial delayed for medical reasons. This time it is to undergo treatment for an undisclosed cancer. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas’ Trial Delayed Until May For Medical Reasons. The successful effort by Katherine Kealoha attorney to move the trial back to May was the latest in a series of attempts to delay the legal proceedings. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha's request to delay trial granted. KHON2.


The Honolulu City Council is poised to take a vote on whether to approve footing the legal bill for the impeachment petition for City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro. Hawaii Public Radio.

HART board and City Council hold off on forensic rail audit. The board tasked with building Oahu’s $9.2 billion rail project voted Thursday to tell the Honolulu City Council to ask off on initiating a forensic audit of the agency until after a federal investigation into the project is settled. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Southwest Airlines’ first flight to the Big Island is set to touch down in May at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole. West Hawaii Today.

The Kona Community Aquatic Center has closed indefinitely. The facility shut down Friday after one of the sand filters stopped operating. West Hawaii Today.

Costco corrects DOH food temperature violation. West Hawaii Today.

The landlord of a property in Hakalau was found to have discriminated against a caretaker based on her gender identity, the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission decided. West Hawaii Today.

Three Kona coffee farmers have sued the world’s biggest retailers and several coffee suppliers for allegedly flooding the market with fake Kona coffee. Tribune News Service.

Maui

Barnes &Noble makes its Kahului home permanent. One-year event, cafe coming soon. Maui News.

Kauai

County to talk bus shelters, potholes. The County Council will host a public hearing on March 13 at 1:30 p.m. in the council chambers to amend the capital budget for the fiscal year July 1 through June 30. Garden Island.

Breathing room for TVRs. Dozens of transient vacation rentals that operate legally in the Wainiha-Haena area closed to the public since last April’s disastrous storms got a one-year reprieve on Monday that will permit them to go back into business when Kuhio Highway reopens — projected for later this year. Garden Island.

Super Golden Week, Southwest ticket sales are encouraging signs for Hawaii tourism, Honolulu, Hawaii county mayors up budgets, aquarium industry scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki tourism fun ©2019 All Hawaii News

Major tour companies and legacy air carriers for Hawaii’s Japan tourism market are reporting double-digit gains for this year’s “Super Golden Week,” a 10-day period of consecutive national holidays. Star-Advertiser.

After much anticipation, Southwest begins selling tickets for Hawaii flights. The low-cost carrier on Monday began selling tickets for Hawaii flights, with first flights — between Oakland and Honolulu — on March 17. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s What’s Not Passing The Hawaii Legislature This Year. On Tuesday the Hawaii Legislature is set to act on hundreds of bills as lawmakers near the halfway mark of the 2019 session. Civil Beat.

Gut And Replace Resurfaces At Hawaii Legislature. The Senate Ways and Means Committee altered the contents of several bills with little public notice, including one that would raise taxes and another that affects Big Island disaster relief. Civil Beat.

The state Senate Ways and Means Committee gutted and replaced at least two bills on Friday, including one affecting disaster relief for Hawaii County and another relating to a helicopter tax credit. Tribune-Herald.

A bill that would shine a brighter light on county police misconduct across the state is making its way through the state Legislature. House Bill 285, if enacted into law, would require Hawaii’s four county police chiefs to disclose in annual reports to the state Legislature the identity of an officer upon an officer’s suspension or discharge from a county police department. Tribune-Herald.

A bill passing through the state Legislature may spell the end for plastic bottles, styrofoam food containers and more across the state. Senate Bill 522 sets a lofty goal to ban the sale, use or distribution of plastic beverage bottles, utensils, stirring sticks, straws and polystyrene foam containers anywhere in the state by 2023. Tribune-Herald.

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Timeline of the battle over Hawaii reef fish. Environmental and industry advocates have been battling for years over whether the state should end the commercial collection of aquarium fish from Hawaii reefs. The fight led to a court decision that banned the use of fine-mesh nets — the main tool of fish collectors — until an environmental review is completed. Star-Advertiser.

Yellow tang project holds promise for Hawaii’s popular, iconic fish. Star-Advertiser.

The way fish are handled stirs debate in aquarium trade. The belief by some that fish do experience pain contributes to the debate over whether the state should end Hawaii’s aquarium trade. Star-Advertiser.

Fishing village wants more DLNR enforcement on aquarium trade. Star-Advertiser.

Aquarium trade still triggers fierce debate, even dividing a fishing village. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Higher tax rates are in store for owners of Oahu resort/hotel and higher-end resident “investment” properties, but the tax rate would stay the same for those who live in their own home, according to the budget plan for the coming fiscal year unveiled Friday by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell rolled out his $2.83-billion operating budget proposal today for Fiscal Year 2020, which begins July 1st.  He said real property and motor vehicle taxes are expected to bring in 120-million more but other taxes must go up to fund his spending plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

If you own a hotel, an investment home or a trash can, the mayor wants to charge you more. Hawaii News Now.

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Losing A Beachfront Home Isn’t Just A Rich Person’s Problem. As the sea level rise exacerbates coastal erosion, many longtime middle-class residents are struggling to protect their properties. Civil Beat.

A Palolo hillside neighborhood is shifting, leading to structural problems. Some residents say the only thing they can do is evacuate once their homes fall apart, even after continuous complaints to the city. KITV.

‘Deplorable’ hotel puts leasehold in jeopardy. Run-down. Terrible. Total dump. Those are guest descriptions of the Hawaiian Ebbtide Hotel.  Star-Advertiser.

A state lawmaker says he's had questions about the Public Safety Department's policies even before the recent fatal shootings by state sheriffs, that includes the OCCC inmate shot and killed after escaping Friday. KHON2.

Judge seeks more information on Kealoha’s cancer claim, trial delay request. Federal Judge John Michael Seabright will decide if the trial should be pushed back. On Friday, he said he’d need more information on Kealoha’s health and has set a hearing for Monday so Kealoha’s doctor can elaborate. Hawaii News Now.

Katherine Kealoha Says She Needs Cancer Treatment, Wants Trial Delayed. The defense lawyer for the former city prosecutor says in new court filings that Kealoha must seek immediate treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Kim proposes 10.7% budget hike, 35 new police positions. Thirty-five new police personnel, including 10 officers each for Ka‘u and Puna, nine new sergeants and six dispatchers, along with body cameras and computer upgrades, play center stage in a $573.5 million budget proposed Friday by Mayor Harry Kim. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim has submitted the first draft of his proposed operating budget for Fiscal Year 2019-20, proposing a 10.7 percent increase compared to last year. Big Island Video News.

Council pushes open Sunshine Law with secret budget meeting, discussions off agenda. A behind-the-scenes workshop and attempts to get commitments from colleagues on an item not on the agenda are two ways the County Council pushed the limits of the state Sunshine Law in recent weeks, as an especially tight county budget hangs in the balance. West Hawaii Today.

Proposed rules for vacation rentals received a frosty reception Friday evening during a public hearing in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Testifiers Speak Out On Short Term Vacation Rental Rules. Big Island Video News.

Bill would give BI second water specialist. Water quality monitoring on Hawaii Island will get a boost under a bill that passed the state House of Representatives on Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The County Council member who upset former Mayor Alan Arakawa in the bid for the Kahului residency seat is proving just as unpredictable in her new job. Freshman Council Member Tasha Kam has emerged as the swing vote in the first major test the new council has faced this term — the vetting of Mayor Michael Victorino’s 11 director nominees. Maui News.

Six Historic Bridges on Hana Highway Identified as High Priority. The Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, holds the first in a series of public meetings to discuss a project to improve six of the historic bridges along the Hana Highway (Route 360) located between Huelo and Hana town in east Maui. Maui Now.

MECO says customers will not pay for unused power from solar farms. Credits from construction delays will offset costs in 2018. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. produced 38 percent of power used in 2018 through renewable sources, up from 34 percent in 2017, the utility’s parent company, Hawaiian Electric Cos., said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Hope for endangered seabirds. During the four-day annual meeting of the Pacific Seabird Group last week at the Aqua Kauai Beach Hotel near Lihue, 10 researchers detailed the results of programs aimed at reducing the deaths of endangered and threatened native Hawaiian seabirds. Garden Island.

Ha Coffee Bar is hosting a climate-change conversation 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, featuring Victoria Keener speaking on how Kauai is adapting to predicted impacts of climate change. Garden Island.

Visitors up, spending down in the nation's happiest state, education tax advances, FBI says Kealoha used drugs with suspects, whistle-blower alleges rail authority misused change orders, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hula dancers in Hawaii ©2019 All Hawaii News

January sees more visitors and less spending. Hawaii’s tourism industry started 2019 with its deepest monthly drop in visitor spending in more than three years. Star-Advertiser.

As Tourism Begins To Stall, So Does Hawaii’s Economy. Hawaii’s economic growth is beginning to stall, reflecting softening visitor arrivals and spending as the U.S. economy loses steam. Civil Beat.

Visitor spending in Hawaii down for January compared to 2018. KITV.

Hawaii crowned ‘happiest state’ for seventh consecutive year. Hawaii’s “well-being score” for 2018 was 64.6, Gallup announced Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

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A proposal currently with the state senate would drastically increase funding for Hawaii’s public schools. SB 1474 would raise the state’s general excise tax, or GET, by 0.5%. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green estimates that two months into his new job, he spends 70 percent of his time focused on finding big and small ways to get more homeless people off the street. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers Propose Fixes For A Broken Psychiatric Care Law. Several proposals would make it easier for families and caregivers to get court orders authorizing long-term intensive treatment and medication for the severely mentally ill. Civil Beat.

Senate Bill Could Extend Leases On Public Land. Senate Bill 1251 would authorize the land board to extend leases "upon approval of a proposed development agreement to make substantial improvements to the existing improvements." Big Island Video News.

The House of Representatives passed 127 bills on third reading Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019, moving them to the Senate for their consideration. Big Island Now.

Tulsi Gabbard’s Financial Disclosures Leave Out Ties To Koch-Funded Think Tank. The Hawaii congresswoman, who’s running as a Democrat for president, sits on a foreign policy advisory council for the Catholic University of America. Civil Beat.

Staunchly liberal Hawaii in no rush to legalize marijuana. Associated Press.

A majority of Hawaii residents did not panic during the false missile alert, but instead wanted more information. That's according to a study from the University of Georgia, analyzing how residents reacted to the false alarm. Hawaii Public Radio.

A staggering increase in pedestrian fatalities is happening -- and Hawaii is leading the nation -- not the kind of top ranking the Aloha State wants to have. Hawaii's pedestrian deaths increased by 18-hundred percent from the first six months of 2017 to the first six months of last year. KHON2.

The rate of shark attacks in Hawaii has been trending upward in recent years, but the risk of getting bitten by one of the feared ocean predators in isle waters remains extremely low: roughly 5-in-1 million, according to new research that examined 55 years of shark attack data from around the globe. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy snow on Maui. Historic floods on Kauai. Hawaii weather is getting weird. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The FBI says former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha “participated in recreational cocaine use” with her brother and others involved with them in a drug distribution conspiracy. Star-Advertiser.

Federal authorities: Katherine Kealoha used cocaine while she was deputy city prosecutor. Katherine Kealoha used cocaine while serving in the city Prosecutor’s Office, where she oversaw the career criminal unit, newly-filed court documents allege. Hawaii News Now.

FBI: Katherine Kealoha used drugs with those she investigated. KHON2.

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Whistleblower Lawsuit: HART Mishandled More Than 100 Change Orders. The lawsuit’s allegations echo problems flagged by the city auditor. Meanwhile, federal investigators have demanded HART provide its change order records. Civil Beat.

Whistleblower lawsuit alleges $20M in rail project change order abuses. Hawaii News Now.
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2019/03/01/whistleblower-lawsuit-alleges-m-change-order-abuses-honolulu-rail-project/

The HART Board said no Thursday to a request by a Honolulu City Councilmember for an independent audit of rail. KITV.

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As Oahu’s unsheltered homeless population grows, mayor vows to stick to sweeps. Despite a years-long effort to push Oahu’s homeless population into shelters, the number of people living on the streets of Honolulu is the highest it’s been in at least a decade. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor “pleasantly surprised” by latest preliminary Point in Time numbers. Caldwell agrees more resources are needed but getting help for those in need is just as important. KITV.

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Falls of Clyde receives no qualified bids. There were no qualified bids for the historic ship Falls of Clyde. Star-Advertiser.

The saga of the four-masted Falls of Clyde at Honolulu Harbor is nearing a new chapter. On Thursday, the state announced that an auction of the 140-year-old ship didn’t drum up any qualified bidders. Hawaii News Now.

No takers for Falls of Clyde. KHON2.

More DUI cases are relying on body cams because the videos provide what police reports cannot: The bigger picture of the scene during the arrest. But the videos aren’t just helping the prosecution. Hawaii News Now.

City reports it's getting better at taking abandoned vehicles off Oahu roads. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Ormat Technologies, the owner of Puna Geothermal Venture, plans to bring the 38-megawatt power plant online by the end of the year. The state’s only geothermal power plant, and a major renewable power producer for Hawaii Island, shut down last year during the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Public weighs in on short-term rentals. A standing room only crowd fills council chambers for public testimony regarding draft rules for bill 108, the vacation rental bill, Thursday evening at the West Hawaii Civic Center. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island residents will have the opportunity next week to weigh in on double-digit increases in fees at small boat harbors and other facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Unlikely Wranglers Oversee An Unusual Roundup. When a dairy farm cuts back operations the cows have to find new homes. Civil Beat.

Maui

Keep water flowing, East Mauians tell Senate panel. Senators hold meeting on bills that affect Mahi Pono. Maui News.

Grand Wailea planning 224 room expansion. The Grand Wailea Resort hopes to add 224 guest room units, expand its parking structure from three to five levels and renovate and expand its swimming pool and restaurant facilities, according to a Maui County Urban Design Review Board agenda and renderings submitted to the board by the resort. Maui News.

Alexander & Baldwin realized a profit of $162 million from its sale of 41,000 acres of Maui agricultural land and expects to see a boost in income as it reinvests the money in commercial properties, A&B said Wednesday in its 2018 earnings report. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor: Time for action on Coco Palms. Saying he is “frustrated” by a lack of progress in the reconstruction of the former Coco Palms resort in Wailua, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami said Thursday that “we have to remind the developers that there comes a time when they have to fish or cut bait.” Garden Island.

A new boardwalk and freshly paved parking lot are waiting for visitors to Haena State Park, but it technically won’t be open until repair work on Kuhio Highway is done. Garden Island.