Hawaii population slips in latest estimate, auditor suspends OHA audit, most mental patients used meth, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Food court at Ala Moana Center ©2019 All Hawaii News

State's Continuing Population Decline Raising More Concerns About Economic Impacts. A new report from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism highlights the migration of residents during a five-year period using data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. Hawaii Public Radio.

Amid ongoing cost of living woes, Hawaii’s population shrinks for third year. New Census estimates show that Hawaii’s population dropped by more than 4,700 people ― to 1,415,872 ― from July 2018 to July 2019 when births, deaths and migration were accounted for. Hawaii News Now.

Full Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism press release and report can be found here.

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State suspends Office of Hawaiian Affairs audit over refusal to release records. State Auditor Les Kondo announced Monday that the Office of the Auditor has suspended its audit of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ limited liability companies because the OHA Board of Trustees is denying access to complete and unredacted minutes of its meetings. Star-Advertiser.

State Auditor Suspends Review Of OHA LLCs. State Auditor Les Kondo said Monday that his office has suspended its audit of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ limited liability companies after the OHA Board of Trustees decided “to deny his office access to complete and un-redacted minutes of its meetings.” Civil Beat.

Auditor: Secrecy forced him to suspend lawmaker-requested review of OHA. Hawaii’s state auditor announced Monday that he is suspending his audit of non-profit Limited Liability Companies established by OHA. Hawaii News Now.

OHA audit suspended. State Auditor Les Kondo announced Monday that he has suspended an audit of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ limited liability companies, after the OHA Board of Trustees refused to turn over complete and unredacted minutes of its meetings. Garden Island.

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Hawaii joins a growing number of states enacting ‘Red flag’ gun law. A new gun law will go into effect in Hawaii on New Year’s Day. Hawaii News Now.

Case On Congress: ‘I Lived In Two Parallel Universes’ In 2019. The Hawaii congressman needed to balance the growing partisan divide with his desire to get work done for the state he calls home. Civil Beat.

63% Of Hawaii State Hospital Patients Have Used Meth. Methamphetamine also was a factor in repeat hospitalizations. Civil Beat.

Tax changes coming up. On Jan. 2, 2020, taxpayers can begin filing all returns due in 2020, including Individual Income Tax, on Hawaii Tax Online. Garden Island.

State Grant-in-Aid Process Opens to Nonprofits. Senate Ways and Means Committee Chair Donovan M. Dela Cruz and House Finance Committee Chair Sylvia Luke announced that qualified nonprofit and other organizations can now apply for GIA for the 2020 Legislative Session. Big Island Now.

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A look back at the top 5 Hawaii news stories of 2019. From one of the largest public corruption cases in state history to a new airline entering the Hawaii market, these are the top five Hawaii news stories of 2019. Star-Advertiser.

The Year In Photographs. The fall of Honolulu’s law enforcement power couple. A resurgence of Hawaiian activism. The fading star power of Tulsi Gabbard. And the islands’ unstable future in the face of a changing climate. Civil Beat.

From record heat to TMT protests, these were some of the biggest stories of 2019. Hawaii News Now.

These are the 10 most clicked HNN stories of 2019. Here’s a look at the 10 most clicked stories on Hawaii News Now’s digital platforms in 2019. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Full Plastic Bag Ban Starts in 2020 With More Restrictions On The Way. All plastic bags, including compostable ones, will be banned in Oahu stores beginning in 2020, and that's just the start of the city's coming restrictions on plastics. Hawaii Public Radio.

Stricter plastic bag ban starts Jan. 1 on Oahu. Another change is coming to Oahu’s plastic bag ban in the new year. KHON2.

Waimea Native Forest Acquired For Conservation. The 3,716 acres of mountain watershed on Oahu will be used for management and recreation. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

A retired Hawaii County police detective is under investigation for allegedly assaulting another county official while still a member of the department in the vicinity of a building that houses government offices. Ian Lee Loy, who’s married to Hilo Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy, is being investigated in the incident, according to official sources. West Hawaii Today.

Task force sets sights on Pahoa albizia. The island’s war against albizia will continue into the new year as the Big Island Invasive Species Committee prepares to clear the trees from a street in Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State looks to expand space at Kahului Harbor. Demand at harbor’s cargo storage yard expected to increase. Maui News.

“Ground Truthing” Set to Begin Today at Maui Lani Phase 6 Development. Members of the group Malama Kakanilua and other individuals that identify themselves as iwi protectors gathered in front of the Towne Realty Parkways Subdivision in Maui Lani this morning to voice their concerns regarding “ground truthing” at the site. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Telcom paints over unsolicited Wyland mural on Maui. Hawaiian Telcom on Monday painted over an unauthorized mural that well-known marine artist Robert Wyland had painted on its Dickenson Street building in Lahaina over the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

New wasp could help to protect crucial native trees. State hopes to deploy second insect to fight destructive galls. Maui News.

Hawaii Water Service to acquire Maui water, waste treatment company. Hawaii Water Service has entered into an agreement with Maui Land and Pineapple Company to acquire its Kapalua Water Company and Kapalua Water Treatment Company assets, the water utility company announced last week. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

FAA records show Kauai pilot wasn’t certified for instrument flight. National Transportation Safety Board investigators on Monday flew over the site of a fatal sightseeing tour helicopter crash on Kauai, and will try, among other things, to get “boots on the ground” today, the lead investigator said. Star-Advertiser.

Feds: Crash investigation ‘challenging’. Four investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board have landed on Kauai, taking over the investigation into Thursday’s helicopter crash that killed seven people. Garden Island.

New $50 registration fee for electric vehicles, NTSB investigating fatal Kauai tour helicopter crash, Honolulu officials enjoy contractor-paid lunches, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Electric vehicle at Hawaii charging station ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii joins states charging more for electric cars as new laws kick in. The new year will bring new charges for some owners of electric vehicles, as an increasing number of states seek to plug in to fresh revenue sources to offset forgone gas taxes. Associated Press.

Sun shines for solar PV, despite tax credit step-down. Solar companies are rushing to finish up installations as part of the usual end-of-year crunch, but are particularly busy this year due to a step-down in federal tax credits for residential solar PV systems set to begin in 2020. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Congressman Ed Case Renews His Crusade Against The Jones Act. Case’s attempt to exempt Hawaii from the 1920 maritime law isn’t supported by others in the state’s federal delegation. Civil Beat.

$30 million in ‘ohana zone’ funding has led to multiple state projects. In the 2018 legislative session, lawmakers approved a whopping $30 million to fund a homeless concept that started out as tent cities, then morphed into undefined “safe zones” and finally became law under the banner of “ohana zones.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Free Lunch From A Contractor Is Annual Tradition at Honolulu Hale. The Ethics Commission is considering a zero-tolerance policy on “tokens of aloha.” Civil Beat.

ACLU says Honolulu's "midnight homeless sweeps" unconstitutional, cruel during holidays. Civic groups call for end to enforcements they say are ineffective, inhumane and illegal, citing a federal ruling that applies to Hawaii. KITV.

Barbers Point air museum files suit to stay in business. The nonprofit Naval Air Museum Barbers Point, which maintains that it is being wrongfully evicted by state airport officials over a convoluted contract history, has filed a lawsuit claiming it has an “implied agreement” with the state to occupy certain space at what is now known as Kalaeloa Airport. Star-Advertiser.

Kaneohe Cemetery Expansion Threatens Rare Damselfly. State officials will decide at a hearing that starts next month if the developer’s mitigation plan adequately protects this endangered species. Civil Beat.

Wahiawa residents say planned homeless shelter is unsafe. Alea Bridge’s Resource and Navigation Center will provide showers, hygiene and laundry facilities. Hawaii News Now.

Kaimuki residents: City isn’t doing enough to rein in monster home builder. Kaimuki residents are up in arms about another monster home proposed in their neighborhood. The city is still investigating but neighbors said it isn’t doing enough. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

GET increase to take effect Jan. 1. For the second time in two years, the new year will bring another increase to the county’s general excise tax. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Kea road cleared as protesters shift focus. The Mauna Kea Access Road was finally cleared of tents and protesters Saturday for the first time since mid-July, but the opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope vowed to shift the focus of their protest campaign to the mainland during a two-month pause in the standoff on the mountain. Star-Advertiser.

$90M penciled in for Saddle extension. State transportation officials are targeting a new source of funding to help cover some of the cost of extending Daniel K. Inouye Highway to Queen Kaahumanu Highway. West Hawaii Today.

$4 million for Kukuiola, Village 9 road project. The county is poised to receive $4 million from the Hawaii Housing Finance &Development Corp. to build a road accessing the Kukuiola emergency shelter project and Village 9 affordable rental community project on Kealakehe Parkway. West Hawaii Today.

Plotting the road to recovery: Disaster task force to review strategies at meeting. Hawaii County’s Disaster Recovery Task Force will begin reviewing proposed strategies related to recovery efforts from the 2018 eruption of Kilauea volcano at its meeting next month. Tribune-Herald.

Inaba to run for County Council. A contender for the County Council District 8 seat being vacated by Karen Eoff is poised to announce his candidacy. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Alice Lee new council chairwoman. Committees reorganized in wake of King's resignation as chair. Maui News.

King’s Term as Chair Cut Short: Lee Pledges “Unifying” Style. The Maui County Council voted 7-2 on Friday in favor of changing council leadership from the current chair, Kelly King, to the selection of Alice Lee, who will take over chairmanship on Jan. 2, 2020. Maui Now.

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County Council overrides Victorino’s property tax veto. New classifications to take effect July 1. Maui News.

Extra care goes into Iao Valley grounds. Maui Native Hawaiian Club members and volunteers worked on the grounds surrounding the foundation of the Hawaiian Hale at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens in Iao Valley on Saturday morning. Maui News.

Kauai

NTSB arrives on Kauai to investigate fatal tour chopper crash. An NTSB team arrived on Sunday to launch their investigation of what caused the tour helicopter crash on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast that left no survivors. Hawaii News Now.

No survivors in Kauai helicopter crash; tours scrutinized. Tour helicopter operations in Hawaii have come under increased scrutiny after the deadly crash this week, one of several recent accidents in the state, with a congressman calling the trips unsafe and lacking proper oversight. Associated Press.

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Park limitations having impact. One of the sure signs of the new management paradigm for this state park and the adjoining Ha‘ena State Park on Kauai is a truer wilderness experience for people hardy enough to hike 11 miles one-way from Ke‘e Beach to Kalalau Beach. Garden Island.

Rise of EVs. Two sleek cars — one red and the other blue — sit in adjoining parking spaces at Kukui Grove Center in Lihue. They are testimony to the speed with which Kauai is embracing electric vehicles. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanaʻi Veterans Cemetery Improvements Complete. State dignitaries gathered on Saturday to mark the completion of a nine-year, $600,000 project at the Lanaʻi Veterans Cemetery. Maui Now.

Two-month truce on Mauna Kea, tour helicopter missing off Kauai, new Oahu vacation rental form spurs more complaints, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea scene showing road-blocking tent in July, 2019. ©2019 All Hawaii News

Officials reach a truce with Mauna Kea protesters. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim has struck a deal with the protesters on Mauna Kea, with Kim pledging there will be no construction activity by the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea and no police action to clear out the protesters during January and February provided the protesters move off Mauna Kea Access Road. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County, TMT Protesters Agree To Clear The Road To Mauna Kea. Activists will move their encampment off the mountain’s access road in exchange for a county promise not to start more work on the telescope until February. Civil Beat.

Protesters, Kim reach agreement to reopen Maunakea Access Road. For the first time since July, demonstrators opposing the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope will vacate the Maunakea Access Road, thanks to an agreement with Mayor Harry Kim. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Kea Summit Road Closed Ahead Of Clearing It To Open Access. Hawaii County is temporarily closing the Mauna Kea Access Road on Hawaii Island until Saturday as the road is cleared and made completely accessible to the public, Mayor Harry Kim announced Thursday. Hawaii Public Radio.

TMT opponents are declaring Thursday's agreement a victory. Thirty Meter Telescope opponents have agreed to move the kupuna tent to the side and allow full public access on the Mauna Kea Access Road, at least for the next two months, as the planned observatory project has no immediate plans to start construction on the mountain. Big Island Video News.

In major deal, TMT protesters agree to temporarily clear Mauna Kea Access Road. Thirty Meter Telescope protesters say they’ve agreed to move their “kupuna tent” from Mauna Kea Access Road until February under a deal with Hawaii County. But they stressed they’re not leaving their encampment ― or the mountain. Hawaii News Now.

Under agreement with protectors, Mayor Kim announces temporary closure of Maunakea Access Road. Mayor Harry Kim announced on Thursday that the Maunakea Access Road is temporarily closed to the public as the road is being cleared to make it completely accessible to the public. KHON2.

Kia‘i to Move off Road, Remain on Maunakea. Kia‘i, or the self-dubbed protectors of Maunakea, on Thursday responded to an offer from Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim proposing both sides of the Thirty Meter Telescope dispute stand down through the end of February. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii Doctor Shortage Persists But More Training Programs Could Help. Hawaii is gaining doctors, but not enough to keep up with the patient demand, according to a University of Hawaii report on the state’s continuing physician shortage. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Bill Aims to Require Invasive Species Screenings For All Hawaiʻi-Bound Cargo, Baggage. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01) recently introduced a bill to require that all baggage and cargo transporting into Hawai’i by air or sea be inspected for invasive species and high-risk agricultural materials. Maui Now.

Hawaii is almost certain to pass the 10M visitors mark by the end of 2019. The number of visitors to Hawaii grew 4% in November compared to the year before. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City Gets 40 Complaints On Possible Illegal Rentals As Online Tip Form Launches. Honolulu officials have received 40 complaints of suspected illegal short-term rentals this week, most of them in Kailua. Hawaii Public Radio.

City Launches Online Short-Term Rental Complaint Form. It was mandated by a new law that Honolulu officials expect will increase violation notices. Civil Beat.

With over 17K firecracker permits sold on Oahu, HFD reminds public of laws and safety on New Year’s Eve. Sales of firecrackers on Oahu began Thursday and so far 17,804 firecracker permits have been issued, according to the Honolulu Fire Department. Star-Advertiser.

The Future Of Koko Crater Stables Remains In Limbo. It’s still not clear who will run the island’s last remaining public equestrian center long-term — or whether they’ll even stay in existence. Civil Beat.

Some Kipapa Gulch residents blame development next door for heavy flooding. Some people KITV4 spoke with say they've lived there for more than 30 years and it was the worst flooding they've ever seen. KITV.

Hawaii Island

County considering Naalehu Theater gift. It’s a gift Hawaii County isn’t sure quite what to do with. The Naalehu Theater, a colorful Art Deco landmark built in 1940 along Mamalahoa Highway in Naalehu, needs a lot of TLC. West Hawaii Today.

State deploys new tactic in bid to get suit over Peter Boy Kema’s death tossed. The state appears to be relying on a technicality in a bid to avoid a civil lawsuit over the death of Peter Kema, Jr., known as Peter Boy. Hawaii News Now.

Fissure 8 names to be mulled next month. The question of what to call the most prominent remaining feature from the 2018 Kilauea volcano eruption will not be answered for several more months. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Partnership Aims to Increase Understanding of Marine Ecosystems. Maui Nui Marine Resource Council has launched a new partnership with the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, located in Kihei. Maui Now.

Two visitor reports show strong November for Maui County. County led the state in revenue per room, average daily rate. Maui News.

Kauai

Coast Guard searching off Kauai for overdue tour helicopter with 7 people aboard. Coast Guard crews are searching by air and in the water for an overdue helicopter with seven people aboard that failed to return from a tour off Kauai’s Na Pali coast. Hawaii News Now.

Coast Guard searching for overdue helicopter off Kauai. The Coast Guard is searching tonight for a tour helicopter overdue on Kauai with seven people aboard. Star-Advertiser.

Coast Guard searching for overdue tour helicopter on Kauai, 7 on board. The Coast Guard is searching for seven people overdue aboard a tour helicopter on Kauai, Thursday. KITV.

Coast Guard searching for tour helicopter off Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. The Coast Guard is searching for seven people overdue aboard a tour helicopter on Kauai, Thursday. Maui Now.

Kauai visitors spend $1.7B. The tourism industry held steady statewide and on Kauai in November, according to the latest report from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

Hotel occupancy grows, vacation rentals drop in November, Maui man admits buying 9-year-old girl, Mauna Kea summit road opens, Christmas Day storms wreak havoc on Oahu, Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Condos along the Ala Wai ©2019 All Hawaii News

Vacation rentals throughout the state see a dip in occupancy. Supply and demand for vacation rental units throughout the state were up year-over-year in November, but occupancy was down, according to the latest data from Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Hawai‘i hotels statewide reported growth last month compared to November 2018. According to the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Hawai‘i hotel room revenues statewide grew by 7.6% to $330.3 million, which is $23.2 million higher than last year. Big Island Now.

Recent deaths spur review of military base security. The Navy and Marine Corps are conducting a broad review of security measures in the face of insider threats, following three violent incidents at Navy bases since Thanksgiving, including the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard fatal shootings on Dec. 4. Star-Advertiser.

How A Nuclear Waste Site 2,800 Miles Away Became A Hawaii Priority. The Runit Dome in the Marshall Islands is cracked and in danger of spilling its radioactive contents into the Pacific Ocean. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City report claims housing shortage will end in 2028, but experts are skeptical. The report by the Department of Planning and Permitting said that population growth over the next several years will slow down while the inventory of known housing projects will grow significantly. Hawaii News Now.

Restored Wo Fat Building expected to breathe new life into Chinatown. Owners of the iconic Wo Fat Building are hoping that restoration of the 86-year-old landmark will serve as a catalyst for a badly needed makeover for the rest of Chinatown. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecutors Keep Up Quest For Third Trial Against Christopher Deedy. The federal agent’s attorneys have argued another trial for manslaughter would violate the double jeopardy clause of the U.S. Constitution. Associated Press.

Rain and wind wreak havoc across Oahu, knocking out power to thousands and causing a mudslide. Oahu received slate-gray skies, steady rain and wind gusts for Christmas that knocked out power to more than 18,000 people, downed trees, power lines and closed the Pali Highway — again — as the result of a mudslide. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s NYE fireworks displays, rules and safety tips from HFD. The Honolulu Fire Department is reminding the public that the City and County of Honolulu’s fireworks ordinance allows the public to purchase and use firecrackers only. All other fireworks are illegal for consumer use on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Increased police presence on Daniel K. Inouye Highway put department $3M over budget. The county is a little less than halfway through fiscal year 2019-2020, but five months of increased police presence on Daniel K. Inouye Highway near Maunakea Access Road has put the Hawaii Police Department over budget, a high-ranking police official told the Hawaii County Police Commission on Friday during the panel’s monthly meeting in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Both sides downplay likelihood of confrontation on Maunakea Access Road. County officials and protesters alike seem skeptical that a confrontation will occur at Maunakea Access Road on Thursday, but both sides remain cautious. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Kea Summit Road Open Ahead Of Potential Sweep. The Mauna Kea Access Road on Hawaii Island is once again open to the public, but the situation on the mountain remains uncertain. Hawaii Public Radio.

PGV reconstruction efforts on schedule to be finished by end of 2019. Puna Geothermal Venture is expecting to return to operation by the end of this year and hopes to sell electricity in early 2020. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A Maui man accused of “buying” a 9-year-old Thai girl and then sexually assaulting her when she was 14 will likely serve five years behind bars under a plea deal. In court papers, 76-year-old George Theros admitted that he had sex with the girl earlier this year while he was trying to smuggle her on a boat from Panama to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Storm rattles island. The storm that hit Kauai the night before Christmas knocked out power, closed bridges and roads, led to requests for water conservation and a brown water advisory, and people were urged to stay out of the ocean. Garden Island.

Historic theater and bridge damaged by flooding on Kauai. A flash flood warning for Kauai has expired following a morning of extremely heavy rain. Hawaii News Now.

Abercrombie calls for Tulsi Gabbard's resignation, more doctors leave the state, Case wants changes to Jones Act, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Matson container ship off Oahu ©2019 All Hawaii News

Case Calls For Changes To Jones Act But There's Already Opposition. Hawaii Congressman Ed Case wants amendments to the Jones Act, the maritime shipping law that requires only American-owned and built ships transport cargo between the U.S mainland and Hawaii as well as other American territories and states. Hawaii Public Radio.

Rep. Case Wants To Reform The Jones Act. The purpose, he says, is to bring down the costs of shipped goods in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

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Neil Abercrombie calls on Tulsi Gabbard to resign from Congress. Former Gov. Neil Abercrombie is calling on Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to resign from her seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, telling reporters Monday that her missed votes and absence from her district amid her bid for the presidency were unacceptable. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Governor Calls On Tulsi Gabbard To Resign. Neil Abercrombie says the congresswoman’s presidential campaign is distracting her from representing the islands. Civil Beat.

Former Hawaii governor calls on Tulsi Gabbard to resign now, says actions "unacceptable" for constituents. Abercrombie is co-chair of Kai Kahele's campaign for Gabbard's seat, but he claims his announcement was not made for his candidate, but in a personal capacity. KITV.

Former Gov. Abercrombie Calls for Tulsi Gabbard's Resignation. He said he believes her presidential campaign has kept her from properly representing Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. Hawaii Public Radio.

Abercrombie: Gabbard should step down now rather than finish term. Former Gov. Neil Abercrombie is calling on Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to resign from her seat in Congress. Hawaii News Now.

Ex-Hawaii governor calls for Gabbard to resign from Congress. A former Hawaii governor on Monday called for long-shot presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard to resign from Congress after she voted “present” on two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. Associated Press.

Trump has ‘respect’ for Gabbard after her ‘present’ vote on articles of impeachment. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is getting some attention from President Donald Trump after she voted “present” on the two articles of impeachment approved last week in the House. Hawaii News Now.

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More than 150 doctors left Hawaii this year. The exodus of doctors from practice in Hawaii this year was much worse than was indicated in preliminary figures released just a few months ago. Garden Island.

A new bill in the Senate will provide $20 million per year to some of the most endangered species in the United States, including Hawaiian plants, butterflies, freshwater mussels and desert fish in the Southwest. Maui Now.

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Hawaiian Electric companies to operate under single name. The electrical utilities on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island will operate under a single name, Hawaiian Electric, starting in January. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light to be renamed Hawaiian Electric. Customers won’t see any big differences besides the name change. KHON2.

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Parent Company of Hawaiian Telcom Purchased for $2.6 Billion. Brookfield Infrastructure has acquired Cincinnati Bell Inc., the parent company of Hawaiian Telcom. Big Island Now.

USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma to sail again. Navy ships named USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma will return to active duty with the announcement Monday by Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly that two new Virginia-class attack submarines will be named after “heroes of the greatest generation” who died on the famed Pearl Harbor battleships. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Nadamoto forms campaign committee. Acting Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Dwight Nadamoto informed the state Campaign Spending Commission on Friday that he organized a campaign committee, a strong indication that he might dive into the 2020 election for the four-year job. Star-Advertiser.

Nadamoto Files Paperwork To Join City Prosecutor’s Race. He’s currently running the department in an acting capacity while Keith Kaneshiro is on leave. Civil Beat.

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Turning Around An Oahu Rural Hospital. Wahiawa General Hospital has relied for years on state funds and cutting services to keep afloat. New management is trying to forge a different path to survive. Civil Beat.

In bid to cut food waste, schools tracking how much food is thrown away. Kapaa Middle School is in the midst of a comprehensive two-week audit that measures and weighs food waste. Hawaii News Now.

UH invasive species expert finds Coqui frog on his Manoa property. The noisy Coqui frog was found on the property of an invasive species expert, University of Hawaii at Manoa professor Daniel Rubinoff. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Maunakea VIS to reopen. Although the Maunakea Access Road has reopened, some tour companies have decided to wait and see what happens this week before resuming summit tours. Tribune-Herald.

Poindexter mulls mainland move. Hamakua Councilwoman Valerie Poindexter said Monday she plans to move to Roanoke, Virginia, with her family, but she will finish her council term first. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Hotels Leads State in RevPAR and ADR. Maui County hotels led the state in revenue per available room and average daily rate in November 2019. Maui Now.

Kelly King’s resignation as chair came as a shock. But political observers don’t expect council’s dynamic to change. Maui News.

Maui Land & Pineapple to sell Kapalua water assets. Maui Land & Pineapple Co. has reached an agreement with Hawaii Water Service to sell MLP’s Kapalua Water Co. and Kapalua Waste Treatment Co. regulated utility assets in the Kapalua Resort. Star-Advertiser.

Baba Ram Dass, Spiritual Guru And LSD Pioneer, Dies On Maui. Baba Ram Dass, the 1960s counterculture spiritual leader who experimented with LSD and traveled to India to find enlightenment, returning to share it with Americans, died at his home on Maui. He was 88. Associated Press.

Kauai

The Golden Rule crew prepares for voyage. Zoe Byrd has been protesting the U.S. government’s nuclear testing programs since the 1970s, but next month, the movement will take her to the middle of the Pacific Ocean, where she will spend weeks at sea on a 33-foot, 60-year-old wooden boat in cramped quarters alongside three other people she knows virtually nothing about. Garden Island.

Hawaii challenged by high cost of living, stagnant population, 325 jobs cut at Pearl Harbor as new drydock planned, Maui council shakeup, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Economists: High Living Costs Continue Driving Hawaii Residents Away. A new UH study predicts tourism to drive moderate growth in 2020, despite recent population declines. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Do Hawaii Folks Really Work 91 Hours A Week? A new study’s methodology is skewered, but our cost of living in general and housing in particular are certainly out of reach for many. Civil Beat.

Federal Policies Threaten Hawaii’s Flora, Fauna. Lack of scrutiny over invasive species threatens the Aloha State’s native wildlife. U.S. News and World Report.

New pot law goes into effect Jan. 11. Legislation passed by lawmakers earlier this year that decriminalizes the possession of three grams or less of marijuana and allows such past possessions to be expunged from criminal records will take effect early next year. Tribune-Herald.

Case throws liability for Hawaii charter schools in doubt. A $75,000 payment to settle a lawsuit filed by a woman who tripped and fell at Waimea Middle School is raising questions about who is liable for accidents at charter schools. Star-Advertiser.

Six Hawaii Companies Cited For Air Pollution Violations. Six Hawaii companies — half of which are electric companies — were fined for violating emission standards. Civil Beat.

Comedian Mel Cabang, who entertained Hawaii for decades, dies at age 77. Mel Cabang, one of Hawaii’s comedic legends, died Saturday in Las Vegas at age 77. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Pearl Harbor could get first new dry dock since 1943. A surge in demand for attack submarines and the lengthening of Virginia-class subs to carry more missiles has the Navy examining building its first new dry dock at Pearl Harbor since World War II or creating a 650-foot floating dry dock to better maintain its Pacific- based undersea fleet. Star-Advertiser.

Change in Navy contracting eliminates jobs at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Defense giant BAE Systems is exiting the surface ship repair business at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard after a more than 10-year run, eliminating about 325 jobs and leaving some uncertainty whether the work sometimes topping $50 million per ship can be fully retained in Hawaii under new Navy contracting terms. Star-Advertiser.

Sweep at Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor uncovers hundreds of violations. Illegal homeless encampments, derelict and sinking boats, and piles of smelly trash were back at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor only weeks after the state finished a November enforcement sweep that netted 550 violations. Star-Advertiser.

Irritated neighbors want to lower the boom on illegal fireworks. Oahu has long had a problem with illegal fireworks, especially the aerials that temporarily transform many neighborhoods into dazzling landscapes on New Year’s Eve but terrorize pets, frighten small children and stress residents — especially those with health problems — who aren’t into the booming celebrations. Star-Advertiser.

City auditor slams Honolulu Zoo. Despite the city’s efforts to regain accreditation for the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki attraction continues to be plagued by an ineffective and ill-defined relationship with the Honolulu Zoological Society, as well as operational deficiencies and staff shortages that have led to unnecessary overtime costs, according to a report released by the city auditor this month. Star-Advertiser.

Low Pay, Reputation Of Corruption Hinders Hiring at Honolulu Liquor Commission. The city agency charged with regulating Oahu’s liquor industry is struggling to fill positions. Civil Beat.

HPD to propose ban on so-called ‘ghost guns’ amid increase in gun violence. Ghost guns have no serial numbers so they’re impossible to track and you don’t need a background check to get one. And right now, they’re completely legal in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

In Waimanalo, residents battle illegal dumping blocks from free city trash center. Waimanalo residents say their neighborhood is being plagued by a series of illegal dump sites. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island continues to lead the state in population growth, but some of the 42 small towns that dot the island have seen population drop, according to detailed estimates released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau. West Hawaii Today.

Mauna Kea Status Report Given To BLNR After Follow-Up Audit. The annual report on the status of the implementation of the Mauna Kea Comprehensive Management Plan, or CMP, was on Friday’s agenda of the Hawaiʻi Board of Land and Natural Resources. Big Island Video News.

Police commission rejects complaint by retired sergeant. The Hawaii County Police Commission on Friday found insufficient evidence to support the allegations in a complaint made by a retired Hawaii Police Department sergeant concerning enhanced traffic enforcement that occurred on Daniel K. Inouye Highway between Aug. 15 and Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Group shows interest in opening new Ookala dairy. Although Big Island Dairy has “satisfactorily completed” all closure requirements set forth in an agreement with the state Department of Health, others have shown interest in the Ookala property for future dairy operations. Tribune-Herald.

Mass Transit moves forward with Pahoa bus hub. The Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency is taking the next steps for a new bus hub in Pahoa and will seek additional funding for the project from the County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Council Chair Kelly King to step down; Alice Lee tabbed to takeover. Her resignation comes on the heels of reports of dissatisfaction with her leadership. Maui News.

Maui Under the Influence Tow Bill Signed Into Law. With five days until Christmas and already 22 fatalities on Maui County roads, lawmakers passed an ordinance Friday aimed at keeping the roads safe from drunk and impaired drivers. Maui Now.

Lahaina gets a new $10M chocolate factory and cacao farm, with all the profits going to charity. It would be too indulgent to say that Hawaii is about to be drenched in locally made chocolate, but the fledgling industry is on the verge of a sweet surge with a $10 million factory slated for a public opening next month on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

‘Where am I gonna go’. Laws prohibiting unpermitted camping are enforced by county park rangers during frequent early morning raids at public spaces and ignored by prosecuting attorneys, who refuse to pursue cases against people whose only crime is not living in a house. Garden Island.

There's a free way to get around Kauai until Christmas. It's an offer that's part of recovery efforts after historic flooding on the island last year. KITV.

Hemp Growers Battle Both State Restrictions And Medical Skeptics. They hope the Legislature will move decisively to liberalize regulations that limit the marketing of hemp products. Civil Beat.

Saving Kanaele. Water was running in peaceful streams out of Kanaele after days of rains drenched Hawaii’s last, intact, lowland bog, protected on all sides by steep mountains and the Kauai Watershed Alliance’s first predator-proof fence. Garden Island.

Avain botulism taking a toll on endangered waterbirds. Since July, the team has found 140 sick or dead birds in the refuge, the majority being koloa ducks. Garden Island.

Police pulled off Mauna Kea as access road to be opened, Maui mayor vetoes tax valuation bill, 500 food service workers strike at Honolulu airport, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige and top state law enforcement officials hold Mauna Kea press conference ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Governor Pulls Back Law Enforcement On Mauna Kea — For Now. Protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope project are contemplating their next move in the face of a Dec. 26 deadline to either leave or risk arrest. Civil Beat.

5 months after standoff with TMT protesters began, Ige pulls law enforcement from Mauna Kea. The governor announced Thursday he’s pulling state law enforcement from Mauna Kea amid the ongoing standoff with Thirty Meter Telescope protesters at the base of the summit, but stressed his administration is not abandoning the project. Hawaii News Now.

Thirty Meter Telescope protesters told to clear road by Dec. 26. In a confusing flurry of activity Thursday, Gov. David Ige said he was removing state law enforcement personnel from Mauna Kea for the time being, while a top state law enforcement officer warned the protesters blocking the Mauna Kea Access Road that they have until Dec. 26 to clear the road, or face arrest. Star-Advertiser.

Standing down: Ige, Kim announce withdrawal of law enforcement on Maunakea. After more than five months of waiting, the impasse at Maunakea Access Road has seemingly broken, with Gov. David Ige on Thursday reopening the road and withdrawing law enforcement from the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

The governor has initiated a reduction of state law enforcement presence on Maunakea. State law enforcement will stand down on Mauna Kea, and the Mauna Kea Access Road will reopen. Big Island Video News.

TMT Won't Begin Construction At This Time, Ige To Withdraw Law Enforcement From Mauna Kea. Hawaii Gov. David Ige says he is withdrawing state law enforcement officers from Mauna Kea after being informed that the $1.6 billion Thirty Meter Telescope won't proceed with construction at this time. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor Ige pulls law enforcement from Mauna Kea, police give demonstrators one week to clear the road. Mauna Kea kia’i are given one week to clear access to the Mauna or face removal after Governor David Ige announces the TMT project will be temporarily put on hold. KHON2.

State to Withdraw Presence From Maunakea as Part of Indefinite Stand Down. Gov. David Ige has announced an indefinite withdrawal of state law enforcement from Maunakea, citing the Thirty Meter Telescope’s intention not to immediately move forward with construction on the mountain. Big Island Now.

Demonstrators against TMT construction say they were given a deadline to clear Mauna Kea access road. On Thursday, demonstrators against construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea say they were given a deadline to clear the access road. KITV.

Complaint: ‘Enhanced’ Maunakea traffic enforcement is unconstitutional. The Hawaii County Police Commission is slated to hear a complaint today by a retired police sergeant who alleges the Hawaii Police Department’s operations around the blockade of Maunakea Access Road by protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope project is “institutionalized police misconduct.” Tribune-Herald.

Baby gets a special greeting from Obama at Hawaii golf course. Former President Barack Obama is back on Oahu for the holidays, where he's already hitting the links and surprising families. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Strike spurs several restaurant closures at Honolulu airport. Over 500 HMSHost Honolulu airport workers went on strike Thursday in the midst of one of the busiest travel times of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Airport Food Service Workers On Strike. It involves over 500 Local 5 members at HMSHost concessions and restaurants. Civil Beat.

More than 500 food service workers at Honolulu airport on strike. More than 500 food service workers at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport are on strike on Thursday, calling for better pay and benefits. Hawaii News Now.

More than 500 food service workers on strike at the airport in Honolulu. Airport officials told us that there are only a handful or so places open where people can get food and drinks. KHON2.

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State cites operators of two unlicensed Honolulu care homes. The state Health Department said today it has ordered the operators of two illegal adult residential care homes in Honolulu to close down following unannounced visits. Star-Advertiser.

State orders 2 illegal adult care homes to shut down. The state says both are operated by Kolea Senior Management Services. Hawaii News Now.

State cracking down on unlicensed home care facilities. It's something that has become a bigger problem as Hawaii's population ages. KITV.

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‘Save Our Sherwoods’ says mayor agrees to scrap controversial Waimanalo project. Opponents of a controversial development project in Waimanalo say an agreement has been reached to scrap the plan. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Attorney believes group behind violent crimes on Oahu. U.S. Attorney Kenji Price said a group may be behind some of the recent armed crimes in Hawaii, particularly on Oahu, during a news conference today addressing the spike in violent crimes. Star-Advertiser.

Lay Net Found In Kaneohe Bay So Massive DLNR Needed A Forklift To Move It. The discovery sparked an investigation by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, which regulates net fishing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

The Big Island took to the small screen in 2019. 64 productions permitted, filmed on Big Island in 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Suggestions sought for lands to be permanently preserved. The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, or PONC, is seeking suggestions from the public regarding lands that should be preserved because of cultural or historic significance. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Victorino Vetoes Bill on Real Property Tax Valuations. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino announced his disapproval of Bill 59, relating to Real Property Tax Valuations, citing concerns over what he called “the potential negative consequences of the proposed tax classifications and a lack of understanding by taxpayers.” Maui Now.

Maui Mayor vetoes bill on Real Property Tax Valuations. Mayor Victorino objected to the Council’s new proposed real property tax classifications of combining “properties with dwellings” in the current Agricultural, Conservation, Apartment, and Residential classifications into a new classification entitled “non-owner occupied.” KHON2.

Funds for old, new jail; to purchase watershed all part of Ige’s budget. $17M also allotted for Maui hospitals. Maui News.

Surf competition raises concerns over illegal parking, congestion. Residents file complaints after Jaws Challenge. Maui News.

Kauai

After 100 years in business, Kauai hog farm prepares to shut down. Kauai farmers Valerie and Derwin Kaneshiro raise hogs and produce pork. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai utility hits mark of supplying island with 100% renewable energy. KIUC claims that for five hours last Tuesday, all electricity on Kauai — which provides power to a population of about 100,000, including visitors — was generated 100% by renewable resources. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii delegates split on impeachment vote, Hawaii County Council rejects $10M from state for Mauna Kea Thirty Meter Telescope enforcement, Pearl Harbor WWII 75th anniversary event planned, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trump impeachment rally Dec. 17, 2019 in Hilo ©2019 All Hawaii News

Gabbard, Case part ways on impeachment vote. Hawaii’s two members of the U.S. House of Representatives diverged in Wednesday’s historic vote to impeach President Donald Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Star-Advertiser.

House Votes To Impeach Trump Without Gabbard’s Support. Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard was one of only four Democratic holdouts as Trump was impeached for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Civil Beat.

Defying party, Gabbard votes ‘present’ on Trump impeachment. Already comfortable as an outlier in her party, Democratic presidential candidate U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, a Hawaii Democrat, did not support the impeachment of President Donald Trump, voting “present” Wednesday on two articles that cleared the House. Associated Press.

Gabbard casts lone ‘present’ vote on President Trump’s impeachment. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard voted “present” Wednesday in the impeachment vote of the president, the only member of the U.S. House to do so. Hawaii News Now.

Presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard votes 'present' on impeachment. Democratic presidential candidate Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii voted "present" on both articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump on Wednesday, later slamming the process as politically motivated. CNN.

Gabbard Is Lone Representative Voting 'Present' In Impeachment Vote. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard voted "present" in the historical vote to impeach President Donald Trump Wednesday, according to C-SPAN. Associated Press.

US House Votes to Impeach President Donald Trump, Hawai‘i Delegation Weighs In. Maui Now.

Schatz on impeachment vote: 'A somber time for our country'. Wednesday, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz released the following statement. KITV.

Kai Kahele issues statement regarding vote to impeach President Trump. Democratic candidate for Hawai'i’s 2nd Congressional District, Senator Kai Kahele issued the following statement regarding Wednesday night's vote by the U.S. House of Representatives to impeach President Donald Trump. KITV.

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Ige signs on for 75th anniversary plans celebrating end of WWII. At the same spot on the battleship USS Missouri where Gen. Douglas MacArthur signed his signature to Japan’s surrender on Sept. 2, 1945, Gov. David Ige on Wednesday sat at a similar table to kick off planning for events celebrating those who won the hard-fought peace and paved the way for an enduring reconciliation. Star-Advertiser.

Committee to plan Hawaii ceremonies to mark 75th anniversary of end of WWII. On Wednesday, in a ceremony aboard that same battleship, Gov. David Ige, military dignitaries and members of the community gathered to announce the creation of a committee to oversee next year’s commemoration in Hawaii of the 75th anniversary of the end of the deadliest military conflict in history. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

New Housing Project For The Elderly Would Displace Residents. The Moiliili development recently secured taxpayer money, but many current tenants didn’t know they may soon have to move out. Civil Beat.

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Honolulu Mayor Signs Bill To Muzzle Loud Mopeds. It amends existing law that addresses noise pollution from motor vehicles. Civil Beat.

City ordinance bans excessively noisy, modified mopeds and motorcycles. Caldwell signed into law Bill 53 Wednesday. It prohibits riders from having modified mufflers that cause “excessive or unusual” noise. Hawaii News Now.

Say goodbye to loud mopeds and motorcycles, Honolulu Mayor signs new ordinance. The bill aims to amend the city’s Traffic Code to address the noise caused by the operation of mopeds and motorcycles. KHON2.

New city law requires all mopeds to have mufflers. Bill 53 changes the city's traffic code to require mopeds have mufflers to control excessive noise, fumes, or smoke. KITV.

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State land a haven for criminal activity for years. State land in Wahiawa has been a haven for illegal activity, and it’s been going on for years. KHON2.

Options for the future of Aloha Stadium are laid out at a community meeting. Despite packing in crowds for Bruno Mars and the Dallas Cowboys, Aloha Stadium is rusting away. Hawaii News Now.

Welcoming dogs among ideas for Ala Moana Park, which concerns some. On Wednesday, the city gathered input on future planning for Ala Moana Park and a special management area permit application that still includes a playground at Ala Moana. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser staffers chosen for investigative projects. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser and two of its reporters have been selected to participate in the ProPublica Local Reporting Network, collaborating over the next year on investigative journalism projects in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County Council rejects agreement with state on cost of policing TMT protests. Frustration with the standoff on Mauna Kea and the high cost of policing the protests boiled over today as the Hawaii County Council voted 9-0 to reject an agreement that would have required the state to pick up the tab for county police overtime and other protest-related costs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County Council Rejects Money For Mauna Kea. It’s not clear how Mayor Harry Kim will cover the reimbursements without council support. Civil Beat.

Council rejects state deal for reimbursement of police costs on Maunakea. The Hawaii County Council on Wednesday unanimously rejected a $10 million reimbursement deal with the state that would cover the costs of police enforcement at Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald.

Council Votes Down $10 Million State Grant For Maunakea Costs. The Hawaiʻi County Council changed its mind on a resolution accepting the money from the state after hearing testimony from Thirty Meter Telescope opponents. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County Council says ‘no thanks’ to money for Mauna Kea enforcement. The Hawaii County Council voted unanimously Wednesday not to accept a deal that would allow the state to reimburse the county for costs associated with the TMT protest, citing a variety of grievances with the Big Island’s mayor and police department. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County Council votes against deal with state over policing costs on Mauna Kea. A unanimous vote Wednesday by the Hawaii County Council against a deal with the state over policing costs on Mauna Kea. KITV.

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Big boost for West Hawaii paramedicine program. A program aimed at keeping frequent 911 callers in their homes and out of the emergency room received a shot in the arm Wednesday, with a $125,000 grant from the West Hawaii Community Health Center to the Hawaii Fire Department. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council brings back county manager debate. Proposal would change charter, establish new roles in governance. Maui News.

Maui Council Committee Takes Action on Climate Change Litigation. The Maui County Council Governance, Ethics and Transparency Committee on Tuesday recommended that the full Council approve a resolution to hire special counsel to represent Maui County in litigation against fossil fuel companies. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tobacco resolution killed. The Kauai County Council on Wednesday voted against a proposed resolution urging state lawmakers to give counties the authority to regulate tobacco products. Garden Island.

Mana Plain monitoring on the way. It’s a result from a settlement in a Clean Water Act lawsuit reached between community groups and the state Agribusiness Development Corporation. Garden Island.

Millions for Hawaii in federal spending bill, feds step in to battle Oahu violent crime wave, Ige mum on Mauna Kea enforcement costs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea Volcano crater PC: K. Mulliken USGS Dec. 12, 2019

Federal Spending Deal Pumps Millions Of Dollars Into Hawaii. Congress passed a budget that includes money for programs the Trump administration tried to cut. Civil Beat.

$21 Million For New Volcano Observatory Field Station In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Funding to keep the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory inside the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park was included in the year end spending package making its way through Congress. Big Island Video News.

Bill aims to prevent repeat of Hawaii false missile alert. A defense bill passed by the U.S. Senate on Tuesday seeks to prevent local government agencies from mistakenly warning residents of a ballistic missile attack the way Hawaii did nearly two years ago. Associated Press.

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U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is expected to call for President Donald Trump to be censured over the Ukraine scandal as the full House of Representatives readies today to vote on two articles of impeachment. The lesser punishment is a longshot. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard makes fans of Trump supporters in New Hampshire. The Hawaii congresswoman has proven resilient in the Democratic field, weathering low poll numbers and attacks from top Democratic figures like former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. KITV.

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Worried About Your Tap Water? Civil Beat is sending water testing kits to households across Hawaii. Civil Beat’s environmental podcast “Are We Doomed? And Other Burning Environmental Questions” is working on a project about water quality and is sending drinking water test kits to households across Hawaii. Civil Beat.

In astounding confession, Hawaii child porn suspect claims 100 victims. Federal agents have arrested a Japanese national attending university in Hawaii after a 19-month investigation that led to a huge trove of child pornography ― and an admission from the suspect that he was in contact with more than 100 young girls. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Amid rash of violent crime on Oahu, federal investigators to target most dangerous offenders. U.S. Attorney for Hawaii Kenji Price says his office is prioritizing investigations and prosecutions of criminals with prior felony convictions. KITV.

Federal authorities partner with Honolulu police to address spate of violent crimes. U.S. Attorney Kenji Price said his office is coordinating with the Honolulu Police Department to see federal charges can be brought against some offenders. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Attorney vows to ramp up efforts amid wave of violent crime. United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii Kenji Price said Tuesday that his office will redouble efforts in the face of what appears to be a violent crime wave on Oahu in recent weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Six out of the nine officer-involved shootings this year resulted in a casualty. In six of the nine officer-involved shootings this year, the suspect was killed. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Fatally Shoot 2 Men In Less Than 24 Hours. The shootings come as there appears to be uptick in Honolulu crime. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard says she is concerned that there has been about a 20% increase in the number of violent crimes involving firearms. Associated Press.

Honolulu Police Officer Kills Knife-Wielding Suspect. This was the second fatal officer-involved shooting in less than 24 hours on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Police fatally shoot attempted murder suspect in Campbell Industrial Park. A lone patrol officer shot and killed a 27-year-old man early Tuesday morning in a grassy area of Campbell Industrial Park — the second fatal officer-involved shooting on Oahu in as many days. Star-Advertiser.

Officer-involved shooting in Campbell Industrial Area leaves one man dead. KHON2.

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3 Months After New Law, Oahu Vacation Rental Numbers Drop on Oahu. The number of vacation rentals on Oahu declined more than 5 percent from the same time last year. Honolulu’s recent restrictions on short-term renting appear to be the cause. Hawaii Public Radio.

New B&B tax class draws criticism. A bill signed into law by Mayor Kirk Caldwell over the weekend creates a new property tax classification for Oahu residential properties where bed-and-breakfast establishments operate. Star-Advertiser.

Path cleared for vacation rental permits after new taxes implemented. Vacation rentals will soon be paying more taxes. Honolulu’s mayor signed Bill 55 into law Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

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Air Force Vet Announces Bid For District 1 Council Seat. A military veteran and community leader wants to represent the West Oahu district she has called home for over 20 years. Civil Beat.

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Zippy's and Dave's Ice Cream form new partnership. Meadow Gold Dairies ended its wholesale contract with Dave's after filing for bankruptcy. KITV.

Zippy’s Restaurants scoops up Dave’s Ice Cream to supply its 24 locations. Zippy’s Restaurants has agreed to continue scooping a lot of locally made ice cream in a deal that helps sustain Pearl City-based Dave’s Ice Cream Inc. Star-Advertiser.

Zippy’s strikes a deal with local ice cream supplier. Zippy’s is cutting out the middle man when it comes to their supply of ice cream in a recently announced deal that will likely save local jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Zippy’s announces deal with Dave’s Ice Cream. Prior to the deal, they said they had to cut back production because of loss of business. KHON2.

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Atherton foundation sells land under Kakaako high-rise. The Atherton Family Foundation has sold the land under a Kakaako affordable-housing rental tower to a state agency as part of a deal to improve the property through a private-public partnership. Star-Advertiser.

City communications director Andrew Pereira leaving for position in public relations.
Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Tuesday that Andrew Pereira will be leaving his position as communications director at the City and County of Honolulu to take a new position in the private sector.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Gov. David Ige mum on how much money budgeted to deal with protests against Thirty Meter Telescope. More money to deal with the ongoing protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope has been tucked away in the proposed new budgets of various state departments, but Gov. David Ige and his staff aren’t saying exactly how much. Star-Advertiser.

Energy code changes pass committee. A bill that would make 46 changes to the county’s energy conservation code passed a County Council committee meeting Tuesday and will go before the full council. Tribune-Herald.

Department of Environmental Management to Address Widespread Transfer Station Closures by Funding More Staff. For the last several weeks, Big Island transfer station closures have seemed almost a daily occurrence. Big Island Now.

Cheaper greens ahead: West Hawaii golf subsidy program tees off Jan. 2. Hawaii County’s subsidized golf program returns Jan. 2, some 6.5 years after funding was slashed in 2012 amid tough economic times that resulted in reduced spending across the board and even monthly employee furloughs. West Hawaii Today.

‘A legacy of visual truth’: Retired Tribune-Herald photog William Ing dies at 75. William “Will” Ing, the retired Hawaii Tribune-Herald photographer who took the newspaper’s images from the darkroom to the digital age, died Monday of lung cancer at his home in Hot Springs, S.D. He was 75. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor appoints Tyson Miyake to chief of staff position. Josiah Nishita set to take on Miyake’s past role as deputy managing director. Maui News.

Legal fireworks permit sales start today. Caution urged in light of recent brush fires; aerials are still illegal. Maui News.

Kauai

HoKua Place EIS approved. The state Land Use Commission on Tuesday approved the final environmental impact statement for a petition to rezone 97 acres in Kapaa for urban use, making way for a proposed residential development. Garden Island.

Kauai officers on patrol now required to keep blue lights on, day or night. Patrol officers and sergeants are already required to keep the blue lights on at night. Under the new provision, they may only turn it off under special authorized circumstances. Hawaii News Now.

KIUC announces successes in energy generation. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is now powering Kauai more routinely off of 100% renewable energy, and though that goal isn’t reached on a daily basis, the co-op is getting close. Garden Island.