Friday, September 28, 2018

Public-private partnership for Honolulu rail, South Korean war remains returned, Hirono campaign apologizes for Kavanaugh campaign ad, disaster recovery funds unspent, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation
Rail map, courtesy Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation
The Honolulu rail authority on Thursday approved plans to use a “public-private partnership” approach to develop the last portion of the 20-mile rail project and the planned Pearl Highlands Transit Center and garage, which together are expected to cost about $1.4 billion to build. Star-Advertiser.

HART dragging its feet on rail audit, Les Kondo says. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation is offering “less than full cooperation” with an audit that was ordered up by state lawmakers of the $9 billion Honolulu rail project, according to Hawaii State Auditor Les Kondo. Star-Advertiser.

The United States on Thursday returned the remains of 64 fallen South Korean soldiers to its ally in the largest such repatriation ever from the Hawaii-based lab that identifies missing service members from past wars. Star-Advertiser.

In repatriation ceremony, US returns remains of soldiers killed in Korean War to SKorea. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono’s re-election campaign is apologizing for sending a fundraising email referencing the sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Hawaii News Now.

Hirono: Kavanaugh’s attack on Democrats ‘off the wall’. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono called Judge Brett Kavanaugh’s fiery denouncement of Democrats during his statement before the Senate Judiciary Committee “pretty off the wall” for a nominee being vetted to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court and said it showed that women and victims of sexual assault still aren’t being treated the way they should be. Star-Advertiser.

$125 million in April storm recovery funds remain largely unspent. It was supposed to be a recovery windfall: $125 million in state emergency money, mostly for Kauai, to help the Garden Island and parts of Honolulu recover from a major flood events this spring. KHON2.

Presidential disaster declaration approved for Hurricane Lane damages in Hawaii. The cyclone didn’t make landfall in Hawaii, but did leave behind a lot of damage. Hawaii News Now.

President Donald Trump approved the state’s request for a major disaster declaration for areas affected by Hurricane Lane. The declaration provides federal funding to local governments and some private organizations to help recover from storm damage on the Big Island, Maui and Kauai. Tribune-Herald.

Top 20 jobs in Hawaii are...More people in Hawaii work in retail than in any other industry. KHON2.

REPORT: Top 20 Jobs Employing the Most Workers in Hawaii. Big Island Now.

Oahu


The Hawaii Convention Center is aiming to complete nearly 20 capital improvement, repair and maintenance projects totaling about $26 million through 2024. Pacific Business News.

Owner of Cromwell’s offers to give cove to state for free. If the privately owned man-made swimming cove between Diamond Head and Black Point is something the state wants preserved, then the state should own it. Star-Advertiser.

Cops and Social Workers Join Forces To Get Homeless Help — And Off The Street. But low-level offenders, who were supposed to get services instead of jail time, still aren’t eligible for the new program. Civil Beat.

A Native Hawaiian woman and her husband filed a lawsuit Thursday against Kamehameha Schools over access to their home behind a North Shore retail complex developed by the trust. Star-Advertiser.

An elderly couple in Haleiwa is suing Kamehameha Schools for failing to keep its roads accessible. KITV.

Power restored after two large outages on Oahu. HECO restored power to some 8,630 customers across Oahu this afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell hopes to bring well-known individuals with ties to Hawaii such as as former President Barack Obama, Bruno Mars and Oprah Winfrey to next year’s U.S. Conference of Mayors, which will take place in Hawaii for the first time in more than 50 years. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County

Workers and employers negatively affected by the Kilauea eruption in lower Puna are eligible for employment relief through a federal grant program. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Kea’s summit could be closed to private vehicles, large religious ceremonies and playing in the snow under rules the University of Hawaii wants to implement on public land it leases atop Hawaii’s tallest mountain. Civil Beat.

Cultural practitioners, astronomy supporters, and recreational users were in agreement on Wednesday night. During a hearing in Waikoloa, everyone who spoke (8) testified in opposition to the new administrative rules proposed for Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

County Council Proposes Amendments to County Charter. Big Island Now.

Maui

Shoreline setback rules draw ‘line in the sand’. Proposal takes sea-level rise into consideration. Maui News.

Lahaina property on auction block. Previously listed for nearly $8.5 million, a 3,726-square-foot, three-bedroom home at 1421 Front St. in Lahaina will be sold to the highest bidder online next month. Maui News.

Kauai

Sea level rise has already triggered flooding and coastal erosion on Kauai, with king tides reaching record levels and experts mobilizing communities to plan for the future. Garden Island.

Safer streets coming soon. Five years ago, after a series of workshops, the public sought improvements to the Kawaihau, Hauaala and Mailihuna roads intersections. Garden Island.

Tropical Storm Lane delayed plans to fix a sinkhole under Kahiliholo Road, where April floods washed a large portion of the road away. Work should now start in the second week of October. Garden Island.

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Hawaii Legislature less popular than Trump, Waikiki's King's Village coming down, federal funds coming for disaster relief, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Pa'u riders on parade ©2018 All Hawaii News
In Hawaii, People Like Trump Better Than They Like The Legislature. A new survey shows how island residents feel about their elected officials, major institutions and a broad range of issues, from housing to the environment. Civil Beat.

Democratic Gov. David Ige has accepted an invitation from KHON-TV to debate his opponent, Republican nominee and state Rep. Andria Tupola, in the race for governor but Tupola is still mulling whether to participate. Star-Advertiser.

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Counties Ask Supreme Court To Invalidate Ballot Measure For School Funds. They seek a ruling before the Nov. 6 vote on a constitutional amendment that would authorize the state to collect property taxes. Civil Beat.

Hawaii counties ask Supreme Court to invalidate prop tax ballot question. Hawaii’s four counties on Wednesday filed a petition for extraordinary writ with the state Supreme Court, asking justices to invalidate a question on the November ballot for a proposed constitutional amendment allowing the Legislature to place a “surcharge” on investment real estate to support public schools. Pacific Business News.

Counties take property tax ballot question to state Supreme Court. It's an issue on the November ballot that's drawing heated argument from all sides. KHON2.

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Here’s How Mazie Hirono Shaped Her ‘Badass’ Image In Washington. Hawaii’s junior senator is gaining national prominence for her outspoken criticism of Trump and Brett Kavanaugh. Civil Beat.

Federal funds expected soon to help with disaster relief. State and county officials seeking recovery funding for recent disasters got some welcome news Wednesday when the U.S. House of Representatives green-lighted $1.7 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. House approved new legislation Wednesday that would send $1.7 billion to communities plagued by natural disasters nationwide. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii island cumulatively have received more than $120 million in federal aid for disasters since April and more money is on the way, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Lane might not have materialized into the menacing monster storm that was forecast, but all the bluster surrounding it did keep some tourists away. In August, Hawaii hotels reported that occupancy fell nearly 3 percentage points to just over 78 percent, according to a Hawaii Hotel Performance Report recently released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive about $700,000 as part of a $148 million nationwide settlement with California ride-sharing service Uber Technologies Inc. due to the ride-hailing company’s delay in reporting hackers had accessed the private information of some 600,000 drivers. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has launched a $500,000 pilot grants program that will provide smaller, one-year grant awards for projects that benefit the Native Hawaiian community and align with the agency’s broad strategic priority areas. Maui Now.

The colorful pa'u riders are one of the most unique features of any parade here in the Hawaiian Islands. Draped in yards of brightly colored fabric and decked in lei, pa'u riders continue an old equestrian tradition. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s trade export program got a $450,000 boost from the U.S. Small Business Administration on Tuesday to continue its support of companies looking to start or grow their exports. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Incoming Waikiki highrise forces closure of landmark, driving out small businesses. Hilton Grand Vacations, a global timeshare company, announced its development plans Wednesday for a 1.05-acre site that currently envelops King’s Village, Hale Waikiki Apartments and Prince Edwards Apartments. Hawaii News Now.

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. announced today that it has purchased a 1.05-acre site that currently includes King’s Village in Waikiki from BSC KVSC, LLC (“BSC”), with plans to develop a 32-story tower. Star-Advertiser.

The purchase of the King’s Village site in Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations is expected to reinvigorate plans for a new 32-story tower that have been in limbo since at least 2014. Star-Advertiser.

Hilton plans to open a new tower in Waikiki. KHON2.

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Getting residents on board with the new airport rail stop design. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's aiming to get more people on board to support the design for their rail stations. KITV.

‘Chaos At Kamalani’: Why It’s So Hard To Run A Charter School. An innovative new charter school continues to struggle with parent communication and teacher turnover in its second year. Civil Beat.

Kahauiki Village gets a large donation to benefit homeless relief efforts. The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation donated $3 million to the organization responsible for Kahauiki Village, a successful collection of transitional homes for families located near Sand Island. Hawaii News Now.

The United States Office of Naval Research awarded the University of Hawaii West Oahu a $638,100 grant to create a program to support veterans interested in careers and education involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Proposed rules for managing Maunakea lands draw fierce criticism. More than 30 people submitted verbal testimony about the proposed rules, which would prohibit certain activities and items on Maunakea land, require permits for certain other activities on the land and would allow an agent of UH — referred to as “the president’s designee” — to control access to the mountain at his or her discretion. Tribune-Herald.

Council Member Ruggles Puts Queen’s Hospital on Notice. Council member Jen Ruggles released a letter she sent notifying Queen’s Health Systems that it appears they may be violating the rights of protected persons. Big Island Now.

Residents Say Dairy Is Still Polluting Their Small Town. Court filings say discharges of wastewater are continuing even though the company is under an order to stop it. Civil Beat.

Maui

Panel rejects special use permit for Paia Inn. Appeal likely to 2nd Circuit Court. The Maui Planning Commission voted 5-1 Tuesday to reject a hearings officer’s recommendation to grant Paia business owner Michael Baskin a special use permit. Maui News.

The Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday voted 5-1 to reject recommendations from a hearings officer in a report regarding the Paia Inn’s remanded application for a special use permit. Maui Now.

Financing has been obtained for the 118-unit Kaiwahine Village affordable housing project in north Kihei, according to an announcement. Maui News.

Inoperable doors, dormitory stairways in disrepair and a fire alarm system that has not been operational for years at Maui Community Correctional Center have led to $37,490 in fines — the second time this summer that the Maui jail has been cited. Maui News.

Janus lawyer: Too early to tell how unions will be affected by ruling. Attorney appears at Grassroot Institute event at Maui Country Club. Maui News.

Kauai

The state of Hawaii’s pension plan is underfunded, and if the problem isn’t resolved the crisis could get worse. That’s what Joseph Kent, vice president of research at the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, told the Kauai County Council Wednesday as he presented a report he authored about the issue. Garden Island.

Sides split on tree removal. Red paint on ironwood trees along Kauai’s Eastside Waipouli coastline is marking the way for a new beach area and eventual coastal path for the up-and-coming Coconut Beach Resort. Garden Island.

$13.5M Kilauea estate for sale. A favorite getaway for celebrities and their families for the last decade, the Kilauea home of the late architect Elliott Rosenblum and his partner, pediatrician Dr. Mark Nesselson, is on the market for $13.5 million with Heather Ford of Elite Pacific Properties. Garden Island.

Wednesday, September 26, 2018

Hawaii bans wild animal shows, Caldwell urges swift action on rail, Coco Palms hearing deferred, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Elephant act at a 2009 circus in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico. In December 2014, as a response to reports of animal mistreatment, the Mexican Congress passed a law banning the use of animals in any circus in the country. PC: Alejandro Linares Garcia
The state today banned carnivals and fairs from bringing the animals into Hawaii. The president of EK Fernandez said Tuesday's decision could mean the end of the 115-year-old company. KHON2.

Wild animals banned from being shipped to Hawaii for entertainment or performance. Under new rules passed by Hawaii's Board of Agriculture on Tuesday wild, dangerous animals will be banned from being shipped to Hawaii for entertainment or performance. KITV.

Trump official accused of ethics violation over Hawaii GOP event. Don Benton, President Trump’s Selective Service director, has been accused of violating the Hatch Act during a speech he gave at the Hawaii Republican Party’s Constitution Day Dinner on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, has made national headlines in the last week with her blunt comments about the treatment of women and the sexual assault allegations against Judge Brett Kavanaugh. New York Times.

Experts troubled state’s economy too dependent on visitor industry. Strong Mainland economy causing residents to leave. Maui News.

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced Tuesday that it will award $450,000 to continue the Hawaii State Trade Export Program, which helps local companies export their products. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gets $8 M Federal Grant to Fight Against Opioid Misuse. The Hawaii Department of Health has received a two-year, $8 million federal grant that will be used for continued efforts to combat opioid misuse in the state. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority’s upcoming Global Tourism Summit will highlight artificial intelligence through sessions and speakers; perhaps the most notable being Sophia the Robot, which will converse with Oahu Visitor Bureau’s Kainoa Daines during a lunch keynote. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

In response to stern warning from feds on rail, Caldwell tells council this isn’t the ‘time to play’. At stake is $750 million in federal funds that are being withheld. Honolulu’s mayor and members of the City Council said they’re troubled by a warning letter from federal officials over rail funding and will work quickly to address the situation. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor calls for swift action after FTA rail letter: 'This is not a time to play chicken'. KHON2.

Caldwell urges HART, Council to act quickly to satisfy FTA. Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday urged the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation and the Honolulu City Council to work quickly to respond to demands made by the Federal Transit Authority or risk dire consequences. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Rail Project Faces Critical Decisions In Next 60 Days. City leaders are once again sparring over rail as they look to comply with a federal agency’s challenging demands. Civil Beat.

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Concerns over rising sea levels prompt city to scale back a Waianae residential project. The number of homes planned was slashed from 21 to eight. Hawaii News Now.

UH Manoa enrolls record freshman class. The University of Hawaii at Manoa attracted its biggest freshman class ever this fall, helping reverse a five-year trend of declining total enrollment on the flagship campus. Star-Advertiser.

Windward groups organize monthly aid for Kailua homeless. Several dozen homeless people in Kailua Monday got a chance to eat, shower, and connect with agencies that could help them get off the streets.  KITV.

The Kuahea Street interim improvements project will resume on Wednesday, Sept. 26, and is scheduled to be completed by Monday, Oct. 1. KHON2.

Waikiki hotel housekeeper alleges a member of a Saudi Arabian royal entourage grabbed, threatened her. Honolulu police are investigating the allegations. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Pacific University consolidation downtown set. Hawaii Pacific University has arranged the final step in consolidating its downtown Honolulu “campus” under a 2014 master plan to leave its longtime Windward Oahu base. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Pacific University is the new leaseholder of 120,000 square feet of space in downtown Honolulu making it the largest private occupant of real estate in the urban core. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Jen Ruggles Holds Community Meeting On War Crimes. A community meeting organized by Puna councilwoman Jen Ruggles to explain her ongoing absence from council drew a standing room-only crowd to the Keaau Community Center on Monday night. Big Island Video News.

Newly expanded highway will still shut all the way down for Ironman. When it comes to road closures on the Ironman World Championship race day, it will be business as usual this year — which is to say Queen Kaahumanu Highway will be closed for the majority of the day despite additional lanes having been extended this year. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiian Homes Commission kicked off meetings in Hilo on Monday by hearing statements from beneficiaries. Big Island Video News.

In waters off Kona, a strange fish came out of the deep blue. Divers capture the ‘unusual’ moment in stunning photographs. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Napili resort facing violations for unpermitted rock wall work. Maui County has ordered the Napili Sunset Beachfront Resort to stop work on an existing rock structure near the shoreline after West Maui residents complained that the work may be unpermitted and unsafe and could impact the nearby bay and beach. Maui News.

Maui County hotel occupancy fell 4.1 percentage points in August, compared to 2017, according to a Hawai’i Tourism Authority report released Thursday that offered a statistical indication that Hurricane Lane dinged tourism. Maui News.

A new DC fast-charging station is now available at the Maui Electric office in Kahului for drivers of electric vehicles. Maui Now.

The Aloha Villas, a four-unit beachfront residential building on Maui that operates as a vacation rental for an average of $3,800 a night, is set to be sold in a three-day online auction later this fall with an opening bid of $3.5 million. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Coco Palms hearing deferred. A hearing to determine probable cause of violations regarding permitting conditions of the Coco Palms development was deferred Tuesday at the Planning Commission meeting. Garden Island.

Mock council, real issues. Residents got a taste of what the new county council might look like after the Nov. 6 general election at a mock county council Monday night at Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Mauna Loa mac nut products recalled, violent crime up, worst state in nation for teachers, trans health report released, rail costs rise, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Mauna Loa mac nuts ©2018 All Hawaii News
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut recalls products following detection of E. coli. Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut has voluntarily recalled products produced at the company’s Keaau facility between Sept. 6 and 21 due to potential contamination of Eschericia coli (E. coli). Pacific Business News.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp. is voluntarily recalling all items produced from its facility in Keaau between Sept. 6 and 21 due to potential E. coli contamination, state health officials announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Full list of recalled Mauna Loa products can be found here.

Mauna Loa releases full list of mac nut products recalled over potential E. coli concerns. A variety of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company products produced on the Big Island earlier this month have been voluntarily recalled due to potential E. coli contamination, according to the state Department of Health. Hawaii News Now.

Voluntary recall issued for Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products. A variety of Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products produced Sept. 6-21 at the company’s Keaau facility were voluntarily recalled because of potential E. coli contamination, the state Department of Health announced Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products have been recalled over possible E. coli contamination. KHON2.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut products produced at their Kea'au facility have been recalled, due to possible E. coli contamination. Detection of E. coli was found in the well water and distribution system supplying the facility in Keaau. KITV.

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Hawaii’s Crack Seed Shops May Be The Losers In Trump Trade Dispute. The iconic fruit snacks that have been enjoyed for generations were already getting hard to find. Star-Advertiser.

Violent crime ticked up in Hawaii last year, while number of property crimes declined. The number of violent crimes statewide last year ticked up, but the violent crime rate in Hawaii still remains well below the nation, according to newly-released figures from the FBI. Hawaii News Now.

Public sector workers stick to unions. Despite fears of an exodus in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that government workers cannot be required to contribute to labor unions, Hawaii’s government workers have largely maintained their memberships in public sector unions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Unions Say Little Has Changed Since Landmark Janus Decision. Union supporters had feared the opinion by U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority would erode union membership. Civil Beat.

This Ballot Measure Is Sparking Intense Debate Over Hawaii’s Schools. The proposed constitutional amendment is already one of the most contentious issues to go before voters in the 2018 election. Civil Beat.

Some school officials are getting a raise thanks to a Hawaii Board of Education decision to increase of wages for the deputy superintendent, assistant superintendents and complex area superintendents. Garden Island.

Study: Hawaii is Worst State in Nation for Teachers. Hawaii is ranked last in the nation, claiming the undesirable distinction as the worst state for teachers, according to a new study released today by the personal-finance website WalletHub. Maui Now.

Hawaii named worst state for teachers in U.S. Hawaii has been named the worst state for teachers in the country, according to a new study. Pacific Business News.

Trans youth at higher risk for health problems. Transgender youth in Hawaii are significantly more likely to use tobacco, alcohol and other drugs than their non-transgender peers, resulting in greater health issues, a new state report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health publishes first report focused on Hawaii transgender youth. KHON2.

The Hawaii Department of Health today released the Hawaii Sexual and Gender Minority Health Report 2018. This is the first state report with a special focus on health issues faced by Hawaii transgender youth. Three percent, or 1,260 public high school students statewide, self-identify as transgender. Maui Now.

The colorful pa'u riders are one of the most unique features of any parade here in the Hawaiian Islands. Draped in yards of brightly colored fabric and decked in lei, pa'u riders continue an old equestrian tradition. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

FTA tells HART to find extra $134M for rail. Honolulu must increase the official price tag for construction of the 20-mile rail project by another $134 million for the Federal Transit Administration to be satisfied that the city has enough money to complete the project, according to Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Andrew Robbins. Star-Advertiser.

HART CEO optimistic after meeting FTA officials. KHON2.

These Two City Council Candidates Are Political Worlds Apart. In the shadow of Honolulu rail, one envisions a future built around train stations. The other wants to rein in runaway rail spending. Civil Beat.

Upon closer inspection, corrosion may be eating away at Red Hill storage tanks. A new study suggests that the Navy's massive Red Hill fuel tanks are in worse shape than initially thought. Hawaii News Now.

A Pedestrian-Bicycle Bridge Crossing Proposed for Ala Wai Canal. The Ala Pono project is exploring the possibility of building a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge across the Ala Wai Canal. Hawaii Public Radio.

A large crowd gathered Monday night at Ala Wai Elementary School as residents heard from Mayor Kirk Caldwell about plans to build a bridge between the Waikiki, Ala Moana and McCully neighborhoods. KITV.

Sidewalk bill would also apply to mobile kiosk vendors. The debate over a bill that bars people from obstructing public sidewalks has focused largely on what it means for the homeless who camp there. Star-Advertiser.

HPD, city investigating claim DMV worker made unwanted advances during road test. Both the Honolulu Police Department and the city are investigating a sex assault claim made against a city DMV worker. KHON2.

More than 14K pounds of debris cleared from Makua in massive cleanup. An army of volunteers helped pull off the biggest beach cleanup in Makua history. Hawaii News Now.

Waipio raw sewage spill did not reach ocean, city officials say. City officials say a break to a wastewater force main late Saturday caused about 614,400 gallons of raw sewage to spill onto undeveloped Navy land near the Waipio Soccer Complex in Waipahu. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV's HQ for sale with no asking price. The commercial condominium unit at One Archer Lane, home to Honolulu ABC affiliate KITV, is on the market for sale with no asking price. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Public invited to provide input on Maunakea administrative rules. Monday, kicked off the first of four public hearings to discuss proposed rules for public and commercial activities atop Mauna Kea. KHON2.

Dozens attended a public hearing, on Monday evening, to weigh in on a set of proposed rules meant to regulate public and commercial activities on UH-managed lands atop Maunakea. KITV.

New UH-Hilo dorm struggling to fill. Preliminary numbers show a dip in the occupancy rate for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s newest dormitory, Hale Alahonua, which has struggled to reach capacity since it opened in fall 2013. Tribune-Herald.

Robert Lindsey Gifts Sonny Kaniho Book To OHA. Staff handed out copies of Lindsey’s book, Sonny Kaniho: A Profile in Hawaiian Courage, which chronicles Kaniho’s efforts to bring about change and reform within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Video News.

Forum set for developmentally disabled advocacy in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Bond sale garners $113.9M for county. $12.1 million will be used to prepay and refund existing higher interest rate loans and bonds. Maui News.

Maui Family Support Services will receive a $1 million federal grant to support its Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki Project, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced Tuesday. Maui News.

Genetic testing offers hope to catch some cancers early. Napili retreat allows survivors to share their stories, learn healthy living alternatives. Maui News.

Kauai

Officials are throwing the spotlight on marine law enforcement with a new report called StoryMap, detailing and mapping nine completed marine protection investigations in Hawaii. Three of the nine cases are on Kauai, and they all involve monk seals. Garden Island.

It’s been months since historic flooding wreaked havoc on Kauai, but the impact of the flood-waters is still being felt by those living in the hardest hit communities on the island. Garden Island.

Monday, September 24, 2018

Ige and Tupola agree to debate, Gabbard presidential run rumors persist, circus animal ban mulled, Kauai voters to consider term limits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
David Ige, Andria Tupola ©2018 All Hawaii News
Democratic Gov. David Ige and Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola have agreed to a televised debate shortly before the general election, but Tupola wants Ige to commit to a “six-island debate.” Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard encouraged to run for president in 2020. In the words of one longtime Hawaii political observer, Gabbard has been leaving a “trail of breadcrumbs” that suggests she is laying the groundwork to seek higher office, and at least some of her supporters hope that will be the presidency in 2020. Star-Advertiser

This Ballot Measure Is Sparking Intense Debate Over Hawaii’s Schools. The proposed constitutional amendment is already one of the most contentious issues to go before voters in the 2018 election. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Much to discuss in Constitutional Convention — if voters can muster hope and engagement. Star-Advertiser.

State board to re-consider circus animal ban. A ban on bringing circus animals into the state heads to the Hawaii Board of Agriculture again. KITV.

Effort to curb opioids alarms pain patients. The limits on prescription drugs are resulting in situations where many say their pain is not being controlled. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New Report Reveals Hawaii’s Not-So-Booming Economy. A declining population and weak increases in personal income have helped keep a lid on inflation in Honolulu, economists say. Civil Beat.

North Shore homes are in danger from erosion and homeowners say the state isn’t doing enough to help. Star-Advertiser.

Armed Drug Suspect Is Fourth Person Fatally Shot By HPD Since June. Officers were serving a search warrant inside a residential high-rise apartment when the shooting occurred. Civil Beat.

Manoa Falls Trail to remain closed after dangerous rock slide. Friday afternoon, a 100-foot rock slide happened in the upper pool area sending debris and boulders crashing down to the Aikuilama Trail as well as the lower pool area of the main Manoa Falls Trail. Hawaii News Now.

4 foreign tourists cited for ignoring Manoa Falls Trail closure. The Department of Land and Natural Resources said four men were cited Sunday for allegedly attempting to enter the Manoa Falls Trail, which is currently closed due to hazardous conditions from a large landslide late last week. Hawaii News Now.

Approximately 614,400 gallons of raw sewage overflowed in Waipio after a 48-inch force main broke Saturday night. Star-Advertiser.

More than $65,000 raised in weekend fundraisers for Kapiolani Medical Center. The Ko Olina Children's Festival took place Saturday to benefit the Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

After 134 days of closure, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopened its gates to the public Saturday, with a flood of visitors and residents alike eager to see a park reborn. Tribune-Herald.

On Saturday morning, the day of the highly anticipated reopening of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the National Park Service gave a media briefing, Public Affairs Specialist Jessica Ferracane spoke to media outside the Kilauea Visitor Center. Big Island Video News.

You Need To Be Tough To Explore These New Volcanic Beaches. Kilauea volcano created a dramatic new landscape including black-sand beaches. But “it’s a rough walk” to get there. Civil Beat.

Judge dismisses suit against Hu Honua, county. A judge granted Hu Honua Bioenergy’s request for a summary judgment in a civil suit that sought to halt construction of the 30-megawatt biomass power plant in Pepeekeo until an environmental review is completed. Tribune-Herald.

Double-decker buses to hit the road. Hawaii County will soon have not one, but two, double-decker buses running between Hilo and South Kohala, County Council members learned last week. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health has notified the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation of possible water violations in their water system, a company spokesperson said Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Lanric Hyland dies at 79: Ethics advocate pushed for housing rights, government accountability. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Finding farming matches for old cane fields not so simple. A&B official says scale, location, water among obstacles. Maui News.

Na Puuwai sets new course for Lanai senior care. New partner Johns Hopkins School of Nursing takes over after Arcadia ends its collaboration. Maui News.

Kauai

Residents mull term limits for councilmembers. When Kauai voters head to the polls in November, they’ll be deciding on a charter amendment that could end term limits for members of the County Council. Garden Island.

The public is invited to join Community Coalition Kauai on Monday for a mock County Council meeting as a way to get to know what the County Council candidates think about growth management and future land use for Kauai. Garden Island.

Kapaa portable toilets haven’t been cleaned for 3 weeks. Garden Island.

Friday, September 21, 2018

Honolulu airport near bottom in satisfaction, Hirono in national spotlight, big jump in foreign homebuyers, first two war remains identified, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Honolulu International Airport ©2018 All Hawaii News
Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport near bottom in satisfaction study. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which is getting a face-lift as part of a statewide airports modernization program, ranks near the bottom among large airports in a satisfaction study of North America airports. Star-Advertiser.

Natural disasters nip at state’s economic growth, report says. Economic growth in Hawaii this year took a couple knocks from natural disasters but hasn’t been stopped, according to an academic report being released today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii jobless rate in August holds at 2.1 percent. Hawaii’s labor market continues to be a source of strength for the state’s economy. Star-Advertiser.

Spending by foreign homebuyers in Hawaii rises 75% in first half of 2018. The bulk of the sales to Japanese buyers were on Oahu, while the majority of sales to buyers from Canada were on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Mazie Hirono Basks In Her Newfound Celebrity. The Hawaii senator is getting a lot of attention over her lead role in opposing Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. Associated Press.

Ethics commission holds hearing on OHA Trustee Rowena Akana. The state ethics commission will hold a hearing on Friday regarding allegations OHA Trustee Rowena Akana violated rules by misspending money while receiving money she shouldn't have. KHON2.

Public school students make gains in English, stay steady in math. Hawaii public school students improved their English performance by four percentage points while math skills stayed flat on the 2018 Smarter Balanced Assessment, according to results presented Thursday to the Board of Education. Star-Advertiser.

Pentagon identifies first 2 Korean War remains recovered from North Korea. A 25th Infantry Division soldier and an Army medic whose dog tag was recovered are the first two Korean War identifications to be made from 55 sets of remains turned over to the United States by the North in July, officials said today. Star-Advertiser.

Salary Database Now Includes Hundreds Of Hawaii County Employees. With the inclusion of Big Island data first requested in July 2017, only Honolulu police officers are still missing. A judge’s ruling is pending on that. Civil Beat.

To save Hawaii’s disappearing cauliflower coral, biologists seek federal protections. The National Marine Fisheries Service announced Thursday that Hawaii’s cauliflower coral may be listed under the Endangered Species Act. Hawaii News Now.

Loss Of Mainland Market For Marlin Is One More Sign Dan Inouye Is Gone. For six years, Hawaii and other Pacific islands enjoyed an exemption that allowed them to sell billfish on the mainland. Congress and President Trump just revoked it. Civil Beat.

Gearing up for a resilient grid. Federal and state government officials along with Hawaii’s local utilities are confident that the Islands’ power grids are better equipped to deal with a large-scale natural disaster than the one in Puerto Rico was. However, vulnerabilities remain. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

GOP surrogates rally at UH event for Trump and right-wing ideas. The event, organized by the Hawaii Republican Party and Young Republicans on the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus, included a 45-minute talk and question-and-answer session at Kuykendall Hall that was attended by about 200 people. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council Gearing Up to Clamp Down on Monster Homes and Illegal Vacation Rentals. Hawaii Public Radio.

More transparency ahead for reservoir evacuations. People on Oahu will soon have a much easier way to know if they live, work, or visit an area at risk from dams and breaches. KHON2.

The John A. Burns School of Medicine's mobile clinic has brought medical care to hundreds of homeless people across Oahu in the past twelve years. KITV.

Honolulu police bring aloha to #LipSyncChallenge. The Honolulu Police Department has finally joined the summer’s hottest public safety social media campaign, producing a slick video with officers dancing and performing from Waikiki to Chinatown. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Department joins the nationwide lip sync battle. KITV.

A 43-year-old Halawa prison guard who was being investigated for first-degree sexual assault of a 28-year-old male inmate committed suicide six days after the alleged rape occurred. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

After a full morning of public testimony and discussion that went into Thursday afternoon, the Leeward Planning Commission voted to forward to the County Council a favorable recommendation on a vacation rental bill along with some suggestions for changes from the Planning Department and the commission itself. West Hawaii Today.

Destructive Kapoho Lava Flows Remembered At OHA Meeting. During the Office of Hawaiian Affairs meeting in Hilo on Thursday, the Board of Trustees heard directly from a beneficiary who lost her Kapoho home in June due to the eruption of Kilauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents approved Thursday the appointments of six members of the community-based Maunakea Management Board. Tribune-Herald.

County, visitors bureau launch campaign to try to make tourists more respectful. During a press conference Thursday morning, Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau Executive Director Ross Birch and county Managing Director Will Okabe presented the “Pono Pledge,” a public information campaign intended to build awareness for treating the island with respect. Tribune-Herald.

Lava evacuees offended by video of woman frolicking in 'mermaid pools' off Kapoho. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The Kihei Community Association pinned down mayoral candidates Elle Cochran and Mike Victorino on Tuesday night on issues affecting South Maui, including upkeeping and updating the area’s infrastructure and obtaining more funding for the region from the county budget. Maui News.

The two candidates vying for the Maui County Council’s East Maui residency seat addressed questions Tuesday night on tourism, affordable housing, community plans and allowing the community to have more of a say to the Maui Planning Commission. Maui News.

State slapped with big fines over safety violations at Maui Community Correctional Center. The state has agreed to pay more than $22,000 for safety violations at the Maui Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

Draft plan aims at West Maui disaster preparedness. After flooding from tropical storms Lane and Olivia and the Aug. 24 wildfires that burned more than 2,000 acres from Maalaea to Kaanapali, the release of a draft West Maui all hazard plan comes as public attention is focused on how to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Maui News.

Flood recovery ongoing ‘off the grid’ in Honokohau Valley. Residents still without water a week after Olivia passed through. Maui News.

The Department of Water Supply is requesting customers in the West Maui area of Kahana, Napili and Honokowai to conserve water. As a result of Tropical Storm Olivia, the Honolua Ditch that provides surface water to the Mahinahina Water Treatment Facility is under maintenance and repair. Maui Now.

The unemployment rate on Maui Island was at 1.9% in August, down from the 2.1% rate in July and down from the 2.1% rate reported at the same time last year. Maui Now.

Heat index reached 106°F at noon at Kahului Airport on Maui today, according to the National Weather Service.  The actual temperature was 90°F, but it felt 16 degrees hotter because of the humidity, which is around 56%. Maui Now.

Kauai

Debate, North Shore-style. It was a political debate like no other. Garden Island.

Coming together for peace. Everyone was invited to create peaceful relationships Sunday when the Interfaith Roundtable of Kauai presented its International Day of Peace celebration at the Lydgate Beach Park main pavilion. Garden Island.

Commentary: Kauai feels the burden of overtourism. The new Kauai Tourism Strategic Plan has at its heart a stunning premise — that tourism has reached capacity on the island. Star-Advertiser.

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Hawaii timeshares popular, Honolulu panel rejects Caldwell's vacation rental bills, Coco Palms back on track, Kakaako business fights rail condemnation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hyatt Regency Maui timeshares, courtesy photo
Hawaii timeshare occupancy increased 1.6 percentage points to 91.5 percent during the second quarter of 2018, about 11 percentage points higher than hotel occupancy during the same three-month period. Pacific Business News.

An April flood on Kauai and an erupting volcano during May and June on the Big Island didn’t seem to deter timeshare visitors to Hawaii, according to a state report released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Timeshare properties in the Hawaiian Islands reported an average occupancy rate of 91.5 percent (plus 1.6 percentage points) in the second quarter of 2018, according to the Hawaii Timeshare Quarterly Report: April-June 2018, issued Wednesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

Why Aren’t There More Women Judges In Hawaii? Despite calls for more women to seek judgeships, their numbers lag in applications and appointments. Civil Beat.

#BeingMicronesian in Hawaii Means Lots Of Online Hate. Even though the islands are made up of diverse languages and cultures, “Micronesians” has become a catch-all term in Hawaii for immigrants from Palau, the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia who came here through treaties known as the Compacts of Free Association. Civil Beat.

Oahu

After more than eight hours of divided testimony spread across two days, the Honolulu Planning Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to reject Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposed short-term vacation rental bill. Star-Advertiser.

City Council advances a bill to let neighborhoods restrict parking. A bill that won tentative approval from the City Council Budget Committee on Wednesday would allow a group of neighbors to petition for a restricted parking zone. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu rail authority files condemnation suit against Kakaako business. But the company is fighting back, saying the rail authority is trying to force them to accept a low-ball offer for their land. Hawaii News Now.

Permanent home within reach for tenants of Waianae encampment. Leaders of one of the state's largest homeless encampments say they are getting ready to move. Hawaii News Now.

Candidates Vying to Represent Waikiki, Kakaako and Ala Moana at the State Legislature. Only one in three races for the Hawaii State Senate and House of Representatives are being contested by Republicans. Hawaii Public Radio.

The cost of a $3.2 million landslide mitigation project in Mililani is being placed on the backs of residents — many of whom don’t live near the two eroding hillsides in question. Civil Beat.

Shidler alumnus establishes $100,000 endowment for student leader. University of Hawaii at Manoa Shidler College of Business alumnus Christopher Helm and wife, Debra, have established a $100,000 endowment through the Helm Family Trust for the David Bess Leadership Award. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu airport considered one of the worst in the country. That's according to J.D. Power's annual North America Airport Satisfaction Study, released Wednesday. KHON2.

Canine team goes to work at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. A dedicated team is working daily to make sure all passengers are screened for explosives and explosive materials at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

TSA highlights working canines at airport security operations. KITV.

Honolulu police plan to increase enforcement on roadways in the wake of two separate pedestrian fatalities that occurred within minutes of one another Tuesday night. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

$35M Hurricane Lane hits council budget plans. Two Kona road projects and an express Kona-Hilo bus route face delays because of new expenses created by Hurricane Lane. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council bill that would have required local government to be “accurate and factual” was taken off the table on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

State looks for alternative boat ramp sites. The fate of the Pohoiki boat ramp is uncertain after the Kilauea volcano eruption in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

$96M Keahuolu Courthouse taking shape. The Keahuolu Courthouse is taking shape, but Kona’s first centralized judiciary complex remains about a year away from the gavel striking the block. West Hawaii Today.

Flood Insurance Meetings to Be Held in Hilo, Kona. Big Island Now.

A supervisor for BEI Hawaii in Hilo who suffered lung injuries as a result of a chlorine gas leak at the facility two years ago is suing the county and state for negligence, claiming response to the leak was inadequate. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members are asking for $3 million to help repair a road destroyed during Tropical Storm Lane's heavy rains. Hawaii News Now.

Residents are still unhappy with Piilani Promenade plans. Developer offers ‘snapshot’ of project at community meeting. Maui News.

A former Maui County Public Works Department supervisor was ordered to pay a $1,500 fine after he pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor theft charge involving a subordinate employee’s unrecorded vacation time. Maui News.

Maui seems to be getting a handle on its homeless population, but finding affordable rentals is still the main problem, whether you’re on the street yet or not.  A recent study concluded Maui will need 14,000 more housing units by 2025. Hawaii Public Radio.

A week after Olivia, West Maui is still cleaning up — and assessing the damage. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Developers: Coco Palms project back on track. Developer Tyler Greene said Wednesday that with legal disputes behind them, the project to rebuild the Coco Palms Resort is moving forward with an estimated completion date of late next year. Garden Island.

County calls for DOE audit. The proposed constitutional amendment that would add a surcharge on investment real property to fund public education in Hawaii if approved by voters Nov. 6 would have dire consequences, say Maui County leaders. Garden Island.

Kauai dentist sentenced for insurance fraud. State Circuit Judge Kathleen Watanabe sentenced Dr. Terry Allen to a four-year term of deferral and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $20,878.86 to Hawaii Medical Services Association. KHON2.

Sharing resources for health. Students descended on Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall for the county’s annual Health and Wellness Fair. More than 40 vendors provided information and premium giveaways to guests. Garden Island.

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Long lines, limited parking expected as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopens Saturday, 15% of Hawaii young men not registered with Selective Service, Hawaii County scales down special session emergency fund request, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Map of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopening plan
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on track to open Saturday at 10 a.m., with free admission on that day, the National Park Service said today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park preps for reopening. While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopens Saturday, visitors might find it hard to park. Tribune-Herald.

The reopening of areas in the park, which go into effect by 10:00 a.m. on September 22, are listed in a new map published by the National Park Service. Big Island Video News.

This Saturday will mark a new beginning for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. More than 130 days since explosions, ash plumes and earthquakes forced it to close, the park is set to reopen. KITV.

HVNP Reopening, Expect Limited Parking & Long Lines. Big Island Now.

=====

State Department of Education Proposes Increases For Executive-Level Salaries. The proposed raises would be at slightly lower percentages than DOE employees represented by unions. Overall, the executive-level increases would shift the salary range for complex area superintendents to $135,000-$170,000 from $125,000-$163,589. Pay for the seven assistant superintendents would increase to $145,000-$175,000 from $143,023-$167,353. The annual salary for the deputy superintendent — who is second in command to the school superintendent — would increase to a range of $155,000-$180,000 from $143,023-$167,353. Civil Beat.

Hawaii income stats climb, but so does the cost of living. Hawaii household and family incomes rose again last year to remain among the highest in the nation, according to the latest information from the U.S. Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

Fifteen percent of Hawaii’s young men aren't registered with the U.S. Selective Service System, which means they might not be eligible for major federal benefits. Hawaii News Now.

Innovative New Program Plugs Some Holes In Mental Health Care System. A new network of providers and social workers is teaming up to get mental health patients the treatment they need. Civil Beat.

Chairman’s Death Comes At Crucial Time For Pacific Fishery Council. Edwin Ebisui was among the leaders pushing the Trump administration to reopen restricted waters to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

Several Hawaii banks are enacting financial assistance programs for customers impacted by the heavy rains and flooding brought on by Tropical Storm Olivia last week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Tax-Free Trust named Cathy Luke and Randy Perreira to its board in anticipation of the retirement of current trustees Richard Humphreys and Russell Okata. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Rail transit: Town-bound tension piles up. Some business operators and residents who attended a Monday night briefing on the arrival of rail construction in the Kalihi-­to-Ala Moana region left feeling anxious about the future. Star-Advertiser.

Water utility offers breaks for affordable housing builders. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply has agreed to offer those who build affordable housing units on Oahu a break on BWS charges in an effort to spur construction. Star-Advertiser.

New proposal could pave the way for more restricted parking zones in Honolulu. It would require residents living in the area to have a placard proving they live there. The bill specifically mentions areas near universities and hospitals. KHON2.

Two new projects geared at pedestrians are heading to the Waikiki and Ala Moana areas. Recently revived plans to build a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Ala Wai Canal, linking Waikiki to McCully, are moving forward. KHON2.

Waimanalo residents concerned about pollution of Kaupo Beach. A homeless encampment tucked away downhill on the makai side of Kalanianaole Highway is causing some in the Waimanalo community to push for action. KITV.

Waikiki Shell officially named after concert promoter Tom Moffatt. A special renaming ceremony was held Sunday at the venue, where the beloved local personality and concert promoter known simply as "Uncle Tom" put on a host of big shows. Hawaii News Now.

Koko Nuts Koalition: We Will Help Repair Koko Head Trail. The City and County of Honolulu is considering ways to develop partnerships to refurbish and maintain the iconic Koko Head Trail. Hawaii Public Radio.

A rental housing tower in downtown Kapolei for seniors with low incomes is set to start construction after several years of planning. Star-Advertiser.

Two Oahu neighborhoods with single-family home median prices below the record islandwide median of $810,000 saw increases in sales of more than 25 percent in August, according to a report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Based on feedback from lawmakers, county scales down lava recovery wish list. A decision on a whether there will be a special session of the state Legislature to consider disaster relief funding appropriation, especially for Puna communities impacted by lava from Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone eruption, needs to be made soon. Tribune-Herald.

The group of Hawaii Island residents standing post at the entrance to Mauna Kea Access Road are on the verge of being kicked out. KITV.

Beneficiaries spoke out about the problems plaguing the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands during a community meeting held Monday night in Keaukaha. Big Island Video News.

Pohoiki Boat Ramp Could Be Used Again. The Hawaii Department of Land and Resources reports that a damage assessment of the formerly popular Pohoiki Boat Ramp area, along the lower Puna coast, shows no damage to the ramp itself. However, an estimated 14,000 cubic yards of black sand, deposited during the recent East Rift Zone eruption, completely rings and blocks the entrance to the small boat ramp. Big Island Now.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has produced a video update on two, transformed Puna beach parks following the eruption of Kilauea. Big Island Video News.

A village of tiny homes — built by the community — welcomes first lava evacuees. Several Puna families who have spent months living in an eruption evacuee shelter moved into places of their own on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Pahoa shelter closes leaving legacy of help, complaints. Pahoa’s emergency evacuation center opened in a hurry at 4:15 p.m. May 3 and over the next 136 days offered a lifeline to people forced from their homes by the Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Council to discuss call for audit of DOE. Resolution part of opposition to proposed school property tax ballot amendment. Maui News.

Last ex-officer in bribery scheme sentenced. Unlike other defendants, Ahuna does not receive jail time. Maui News.

The US Department of Health and Human Services will award $1,000,000 in federal funding to Maui Family Support Services to support the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki Project. Maui Now.

Why your television isn't getting a signal on Maui. We're told a special fiber cable that provides OTA transmission to Maui is no longer functioning. The line feeds all of the broadcasters transmitters on Maui.  KHON2.

Masons add another course of cinderblocks to the South Maui Community Park Recreation Center earlier this month. The 34,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to be finished by the end of next March. Maui News.

Maui County currently has a shortage of 141 doctors, up slightly from the 139 in 2017, according to a recent Hawaii physician workforce survey by the University of Hawaii. Maui News.

A Brown Water Advisory has been issued for waters from Waihee to Kahului in Central Maui and Honokohau to the Honua Kai property in West Maui. Maui Now.

Old Makena Hotel coming down piece by piece. Maui News.

Kauai

Teachers’ union stands behind amendment. In November’s general election, voters will consider a constitutional amendment that would give the Legislature the authority to establish a surcharge on investment real property to support public education. Garden Island.

A meeting of County of Kauai committees is set for 8:30 a.m. today. Garden Island.

Kauai is gearing up to build the next double-hulled voyaging canoe on Hawaii and now the organization heading up the project has five acres in Kalihiwai to do it. Garden Island.