Tourist fee for climate impact likely to be revisited, Honolulu city auditor resigns, short-term rental phase-out remains in Maui Community Plan update, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Is this the year a climate impact fee will pass in the state Legislature?  There could be a stronger push to pass Gov. Josh Green’s climate impact fee during the 2025 legislative session. Green has advocated for a fee to be imposed on every Hawaiʻi tourist since he was campaigning for governor. He said that money would fund projects related to climate change and the environment. Hawaii Public Radio.

Summer tourism bump going flat as fall nears. Softness has been present in Hawaii’s visitor industry since the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires, and even in July, Maui’s more than 20% drop in visitor arrivals and nearly 18% decrease in spending were dragging down the statewide tourism performance, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

UH gets $2M to join push for domestic semiconductor design and manufacturing. The semiconductor shortage during the pandemic opened the public’s eyes to the fact that those tiny chips are critical to worldwide infrastructure from cars to computers to cell phones. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu City Auditor Resigns Nearly Halfway Through Her 6-Year Term. Arushi Kumar, who was appointed to a six-year term in October 2021, said she is moving back to Seattle, citing “changing personal circumstances and family commitments.” Civil Beat.

Audit Calls Honolulu Police Commission’s Oversight ‘Inconsistent And Ineffective’.  The Honolulu Police Commission doesn’t fully address public concerns about accountability and transparency in HPD and did not follow up consistently with the department about recurring issues surrounding officers’ activation of body cameras, according to the city auditor. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HART’s $1.66 billion contract might delay related rail work, CEO says. Although it’s not been disclosed which projects might be postponed, HART plans that the City Center Guideway and Stations, or CCGS, contract will include design and construction of six rail stations and miles of elevated rail guideway beginning east of the Middle Street Transit Center station. Star-Advertiser.

Gun Violence On Oahu’s West Side Has Parents And Teachers Worried About School Safety. Some community members want to see retired police officers stationed on high school campuses, while others say after-school activities and mental health support would be more effective. Civil Beat.

Iwilei is getting more kauhale for the homeless. But residents say it’s unsafe and unfair. The state and City of Honolulu are working to get about 300 people off the streets by having three kauhale in Iwilei. But residents say it’s unsafe and unfair. Hawaii News Now.

Developer outlines plan for new residential units at Oahu's Turtle Bay. Arete Collective purchased 65 acres of land from the Turtle Bay Resort in April. It said it has already begun work on the first phase of its project, four low-rise buildings with 20 residential units. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Registration pending for plane that crashed, records show. The Federal Aviation Administration’s records show that ownership registration was pending for the Cessna that crash-landed Wednesday close to the Upolu Airport near Hawi on Hawaii island’s North Kohala coast. Star-Advertiser.

Gilma Dissipates Less Than 200 Miles East Northeast Of Hilo. The remnants of Gilma – once a major hurricane – are moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph, and forecasters say this motion is expected to continue over the next couple of days.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Short-term rental phase-out remains in South Maui Community Plan update. Maui Planning Commission members breezed by a proposed policy statement in the draft South Maui Community Plan update Tuesday evening, agreeing by consensus that the plan would aim to increase long-term residential housing by phasing-out short-term rentals from Māʻalaea to Kanaio. Maui Now.

Former Maui homeless shelter resident says it’s safer and cleaner to live out on the streets. Drugs, overdoses, and deaths are just a few of the complaints emerging from a homeless shelter on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Visitation to Maui at highest level last month since August of 2023. Maui has seen an increase in visitors for the month of July, compared to July 2023, and an increase in visitor spending.  Maui News.

9 month road closure of Kekaulike Ave. near Mile 8.2 begins Sept. 3. Goodfellow Bros. will begin performing road work on Kekaulike Ave. at Mile 8.2 on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024. A Full road closure will be in effect for this construction area for the next nine months.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. Kauaʻi could soon start giving police money to enforce illegal parking or stopping on state highways. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most surf sites test clean in August. A monthly analysis of streams, rivers and surf spots around the island found high concentrations of enterococcus bacterium — a federally recognized indicator of fecal presence in water — at a number of locations. Garden Island.

‘The canoe will never leave you:’ Hōkūleʻa sets sail after two-week stay on Kaua‘i. Hōkūleʻa is now headed to Haleʻiwa on the North Shore of O‘ahu. Kauai Now.

State Supreme Court clears the way for aquarium trade to ply West Hawaii coast, Green blasts insurance company for failing to settle Maui claims, FEMA awards another $7.9M in disaster relief, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court clears path for aquarium fish collection permits.  The Hawaii Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled 4-1 that the pet industry’s environmental review of commercial aquarium fish collection in West Hawaii is legally adequate, permitting the state Board of Land and Natural Resources to consider reopening nearly the entire West Hawaii coastline to this practice — which has historically removed hundreds of thousands of native fish from the state’s reefs each year. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Green blasts State Farm for refusing to settle Maui claims. Green called out the insurance industry’s “terrible, terrible greed” for holding up a proposed $4.037 billion “global settlement” that would resolve over 650 claims and lawsuits in the aftermath of the wildfire that killed 102 people and destroyed nearly 4,000 structures, most of them homes. Instead of addressing sea-level rise and climate change, Green now wants income from a proposed visitor impact fee to help the state provide its own insurance to victims of future disasters following the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates push for Hawaii constitutional amendment to secure marriage equality. Hawaii voters are going to be faced with some decision making come Nov. 5. It will be Ballot Question No. 1, which asks voters to approve a constitutional amendment to protect the freedom for anyone to marry in Hawaii – including same-sex marriage, which is already legal here in the state. KITV4.

United flight attendants OK strike, but feds get the final say. Union members picketed Wednesday at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport as part of systemwide Day of Action picket called “Unleashing our Power” that took place at 19 airports. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Tropical Storms Gilma, Hector weakening. Gilma crossed into the Central Pacific and, as of 5 p.m. Tuesday, was about 775 miles east of Hilo, packing maximum sustained winds of 50 mph with locally higher gusts, and moving west at 13 mph. Tribune-Herald. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Drinking water expert, residents concerned about lead detections in Navy tap.  Nearly a decade ago, Elin Betanzo helped uncover the lead contamination in Flint, Michigan. She was hired by a community group called the Red Hill Community Representation Initiative, to look at the Navy’s drinking water data following its 2021 fuel spills. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Chief Just Got A Good Job Review But Many Employees Think Otherwise. The "disconnect" between the police commission and police employees has raised concerns from the police union to the mayor. Civil Beat.

Suspended sheriff’s deputy allegedly pressured before death. A 32-year-old sheriff’s deputy found dead in his apartment Monday was allegedly being pressured about his role in an incident that led to him and four other deputies having their police powers restricted in June, according to an email sent Tuesday to the entire Department of Law Enforcement written by another of the suspended deputies. Star-Advertiser.

Blessing held for long-awaited lifeguard tower in Kailua. The new tower will be staffed with five full-time lifeguards seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., offering more coverage for the north side of the popular 2.5-mile shoreline along Kailua Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Sharks Cove parking lot reopens after emergency wall repairs. The Sharks Cove parking lot at Pupukea Beach Park reopened after an emergency project to mitigate the distressed retaining wall in the area. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Helicopter Companies Push To Reopen New Plan Restricting Air Tours Over Volcanoes Park. The air tour management plan for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is meant to address noise and environmental concerns. The industry says the new rules compromise safety. Civil Beat.

‘Hobbit House’ and others hit hard by Hone. A well-known house in Ka‘u that was once a bed-and-breakfast sustained major flood damage as Tropical Storm Hone passed to the south of the Big Island over the weekend. Tribune-Herald. KHON2.

Plane Makes Emergency Landing Near Upolu Airport. A small Cessna airplane made an emergency landing south of Upolu Airport in North Kohala on Wednesday. The pilot was treated at the scene for a minor injury and released, officials say. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Economic Director’s Business Associate Got Contracts From Her County Office. Luana Mahi may have recused herself from decisions involving the contracts but she still signed off or recommended approval of contracts. Civil Beat.

FEMA awards additional $7.9M in Disaster Case Management funding to expand recovery support for Maui wildfire survivors. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded an additional $7.9 million in funding to the Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services to expand the state’s Disaster Case Management Program.  Maui Now.

Owner fights back after maintenance fees demanded for destroyed condo in Lahaina. A former Maui lawmaker says she is getting demand letters to pay maintenance fees for her condominium that was destroyed in the Lahaina disaster. Hawaii News Now.

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows reopens, debuts new oceanfront restaurant and pool bar. The Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows in Kāʻanapali is open once again, following 10 months of providing refuge to Lahaina residents in need. Maui Now.

The Maui News announces leadership change. Chris Minford will step down as publisher of The Maui News Sept. 3. Minford has worked at the newspaper for 36 years, including the last four as publisher. Jenni DeFouw, a newspaper industry veteran who most recently served as the advertising sales manager for the Steamboat Pilot & Today in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, has been named as general manger and advertising director of The News. Maui News.

Kauai

Hundreds of people attend 26th annual Governor’s Luncheon on Kauai. Gov. Josh Green spoke before an audience of more than 300 people at the 26th annual Governor’s Luncheon at the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024. The event was hosted by the Kauai Chamber of Commerce. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Online survey for East Kaua‘i Community and Circulation plan extended. The East Kaua‘i Community and Circulation Plan will guide the growth and development of the region over the long term and is designed to build on the County’s General Plan, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of the East Kaua‘i district. Kauai Now.

Counties grapple with building code changes as affordable housing grants flow in, storms Gilma and Hector expected to weaken, bring weekend rain, newspaper puts the AI in Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

As stakeholders navigate building code updates, counties bear the burden. Gov. Josh Green's emergency housing proclamation, issued last July, suspended the State Building Code Council. As a result, the 2021 international codes were adopted by the state last month without changes. Hawaii Public Radio.

HECO and KIUC submit plans to strengthen infrastructure against natural disasters. Hawaiʻi's two big electricity providers have filed plans with the Public Utilities Commission about what they are doing to prepare for natural disasters. Hawaii Public Radio.

Storms Gilma and Hector to weaken, bring rain to start the holiday weekend. The latest hurricane center forecasts show that tropical cyclones Gilma and Hector are weakening as they move closer. KHON2. Hawaii News Now.  Star-Advertiser.

DOE contracts with Roberts Hawaii for school bus drivers to expire in October. The State made three contracts to find a solution to the school bus driver shortage. This provides school bus service to students on the Big Island, Maui and Oahu. KITV4.

Young UH-Manoa voters have little enthusiasm for the presidential race. Young voters could play a critical role in deciding who will be America’s next president, but as a new school year begins at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, there’s little enthusiasm in any big way ahead of Nov. 5. Star-Advertiser.

Trump to put Tulsi Gabbard, RFK Jr. on his transition team. Former President Donald Trump plans to name his former rival, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Hawaii’s Tulsi Gabbard, a one-time Democrat, as honorary co-chairs of a presidential transition team that will help him select the policies and personnel of any second Trump administration, according to a campaign senior adviser. New York Times.

Water commission leader is named following wildfire-related controversy. An attorney with complex litigation experience is positioned to be the next administrator of state water resources more than a year after controversy related to the Lahaina wildfire led to the reassignment, reinstatement and resignation of a predecessor. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawyer: Hawaii Prisoner Who Was Stabbed Repeatedly In Arizona Must Be Moved. Myles Breiner says his client fears for his life after being stabbed dozens of times in an alleged gang attack at the Saguaro Correctional Center. Civil Beat.

Oahu

$10M in incentives available for affordable housing developers under new law. In an effort to get more affordable housing built, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 3 into law to offer more incentives for owners and developers. KHON2.

State grants contract for Oʻahuʻs 1st teacher workforce housing development. The 109-unit project will be built on the Mililani High School campus for teachers making up to 120% of the state’s annual median income. Hawaii Public Radio.

BWS Consultants: Thousands Of Navy Water Tests After The Red Fuel Leak Are Invalid. Residents who use the water system affected by that spill say the experts' findings support their concerns that there's still something in the water. Civil Beat.

UH researchers granted $4.2M to take on Hawaiʻi’s clean energy needs. A $4.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation will allow a team led by University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa researchers to tackle clean energy needs on multiple fronts, from sustainable solutions and integrating Native Hawaiian knowledge to engaging with high school students. Kauai Now.

Bikinis, surfboards and battle-axes? Hawaii loosens long-strict weapons laws after court ruling. Hawaii’s tourist hotspot of Waikiki is known for bikinis, shopping and surfboards. But resident Andrew Roberts has recently introduced a different item on evening walks through his neighborhood: a long-poled battle-axe. Associated Press.

Former homeless outreach center becomes encampment hotspot in Wahiawa. A facility in Wahiawa that was initially opened to get homeless individuals off the streets is now a hotspot for illegal encampments. Residents said ever since the nonprofit Achieve Zero closed its doors in December, it’s become a place for squatters and suspicious activity. Hawaii News Now.

3 face federal charges in game room robbery. Three men are facing federal charges after they allegedly robbed an illegal gambling operation on Kawaiahao Street at gunpoint early Thursday morning. Star-Advertiser.

Man indicted for allegedly shooting boy, 16, riding TheBus. An Oahu grand jury indicted a 19-year-old man for attempted murder after he allegedly shot a 16-year-old Farrington High School student on Aug. 9 who was riding TheBus after school, according to the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Schofield soldier faces 3 charges in pregnant wife’s disappearance. A 28-year-old Schofield Barracks soldier, who is the husband of a missing 19-year-old pregnant woman, is facing three charges, the U.S. Army in Hawaii announced Tuesday in a news release. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Safe Space, mobile kitchen to be unveiled Friday at Salvation Army.  Funded through $1.8 million in state and county money, the Hilo Overnight Safe Space will house up to 25 homeless individuals each night at the Salvation Army’s Ponahawai Street location. Tribune-Herald.

Death of Ocean View man by dog mauling led to stronger state penalties for owners of uncontrolled vicious animals. A year after four dogs viciously attacked 71-year-old Bob Northrop while he was out for a walk, the animalsʻ owners Kalani Burgher and Keli Toyama were charged with negligent failure to control a dangerous dog and will face a judge in the case on Sept. 5 in Kona District Court. Big Island Now.

Maui

Queen Kaʻahumanu Center change of zoning gets final Council approval for redevelopment. Maui County Council members approved on second-and-final reading Tuesday land use measures to pave the way for redevelopment of Queen Kaʻahumanu Center as it struggles amid a nationwide decline in brick-and-mortar shopping malls. Bills 67 and 68 advance to Mayor Richard Bissen for final action. Maui Now.

Government Bureaucracy Complicates Maui’s Response To Sea Level Rise. Conflicting guidance from permitting agencies makes it harder for the county to save or move roads threatened by the ocean. Civil Beat.

Corps of Engineers clearing debris from final three properties in Lahaina. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in partnership with federal, state, and local partners, announced that debris removal on the last single- and multi-unit residential properties in Lahaina is currently underway. Maui News.

Maui Woman sentenced to 10 years on prison for involvement in suspicious Central Maui fire. Krystale Kaneakua of Pukalani was sentenced to 10 years in jail on Tuesday by 2nd Circuit Court Judge Peter Cahill for second degree arson in connection with a five acre brush fire along the Maui Veterans Highway two years ago. Maui Now.

Kauai

AI-generated ‘TGI Today’ to launch on Thursday, Aug. 29. Caledo’s AI platform generates captivating studio shows featuring dialogues and interviews between avatars. Caledo will help The Garden Island revolutionize how it produces and distributes news to the communities it serves on the island of Kauai. Garden Island.

Fatal Kauai Helicopter Crash Intensifies Spotlight On Air Tour Industry. A week before the crash, one federal agency criticized another for allowing risky practices and inadequate communication in the Hawaii air tour industry. Civil Beat.

Green names new water resources chief, two more cyclones heading toward the state, more than 5k hotel workers vote to strike, Lahaina property prices spike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Taps New Hawaii Water Resources Board Head After Kaleo Manuel’s Departure. Ciara Kahahane is poised to leave the state Attorney General's office to serve as the board's new first deputy. Civil Beat.

Tropical cyclones coming to Hawaii at peak of season. As Tropical Storm Hone moves away from the Hawaiian Islands, two more tropical cyclones — Hurricane Gilma and Tropical Storm Hector — are approaching, though their impacts might not be as severe. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s visitor industry faces threat of hotel, airline strikes. More than 5,000 workers have authorized a strike at the Sheraton Kauai Resort and seven Waikiki hotels: the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort; Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort &Spa; Moana Surfrider — a Westin Resort Spa; The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort; Sheraton Princess Kaiulani; Sheraton Waikiki; and the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort &Spa. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Tulsi Gabbard, who ran for 2020 Democratic nomination, endorses Trump against former foe Harris. Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential bid, furthering her shift away from the party she sought to represent four years ago and linking herself to the GOP nominee’s critiques of Vice President Kamala Harris and the chaotic Afghanistan War withdrawal. Associated Press.

From surfing buddies to eco innovators: how expired life vests became ‘The Surf Bag’. What began as a quest to enjoy longer surf sessions has evolved into a groundbreaking product: The Surf Bag, crafted from expired Hawaiian Airlines life vests. KHON2.

Oahu

Low morale, poor communication among complaints by HPD officers in internal survey. HPD survey praises leadership, questions communication. The Honolulu Police Department posted 111-page-long “2024 Commander Performance Survey Results” that detail optimism and frustration about morale, equipment and operations under the leadership of Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu EMS Sued For Wrongful Death Over Kailua Ambulance Fire. Family of the 91-year-old patient who died in 2022 after the ambulance in which he was riding burst into flames accused Honolulu EMS of wrongful death and negligence. Civil Beat.

$2.5 million electric vehicle charging station breaks ground at Aloha Tower. On Monday, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced the construction of the second electric vehicle charging station under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. KHON2.

'A mechanism for moving forward': Neglected Pearl City cemetery sees glimmer of hope. Sinking graves. Crumbling crypts. Stolen urns. These are a short list of ongoing problems facing Sunset Memorial Park in Pearl City. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

$10.5 million available for homeless programs. Since 2022, Hawaii County has set aside 75% of certain residential property tax revenues to fund programs addressing homelessness on the Big Island through the Office of Housing and Community Development’s Homelessness and Housing Fund. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i County still dealing with aftermath of Hone with prolonged power outages. With approximately 1,900 Hawaiian Electric customers experiencing prolonged power outages following Hurricane Hone, Hawai‘i County has opened two shelters. Big Island Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Hone: Heavy rains, strong winds, but more hassle than harm. Tropical Storm Hone didn’t hit Hawaii Island directly, but did leave its calling card over the weekend in the form of heavy rainfall and gusty winds. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Contested case delays long-awaited vote on Hawaiʻi Island aquarium fishing permits. On Friday, the Board of Land and Natural Resources was scheduled to vote on the proposed structure for a controversial West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area permit, which covers the entire western coast of the island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui’s New Coastal Rules Are Full Of Loopholes, Environmental Group Says. In a lawsuit, Maui Tomorrow rejects the regulations as essentially toothless, but the county says they will expedite permitting and avoid unnecessary hurdles. Civil Beat.

'Problematic': Lahaina lots listed for thousands more than pre-fire value. Members of the Lahaina Community Land Trust worry the much-resisted concern could soon become a reality as several leveled lots were recently listed for thousands of dollars higher than what they were appraised for before the tragedy. KITV4.

Milestone reached with debris removal underway on last single- and multi-unit residential properties in Lahaina. The US Army Corps of Engineers in partnership with federal, state, and local partners, announced that debris removal on the last single- and multi-unit residential properties in Lahaina is underway. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the Personal Property Debris Removal Program, as all residential properties will be cleared months ahead of the original January 2025 deadline. Maui Now.

Public invited to comment on cleanup of 700-gallon fuel spill at Haleakalā. The public can now weigh in on cleanup of a fuel spill atop Haleakalā. The 2023 fuel spill was caused by a lightning strike to an emergency generator.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kauai Community College enrollment up 11.9 percent for fall semester. Kauai Community College opened its doors to the fall semester on Monday with an opening day census of 1,277 students. Garden Island.

Maui hotel booking decline could cost state $40M in taxes, insurance industry wants Hawaii Supreme Court to step in over wildfire payment dispute, Hone sweeps past state after dumping needed rain, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Decline in Maui room bookings could cost the state more than $40 million in taxes. The dampening in travel sentiment for Maui is bringing down tourism statewide and is a key reason Hawaii visitor industry executives appealed to the Hawaii Tourism Authority Board to add $1.6 million to the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau marketing budget to conduct a marketing saturation campaign Sept. 15-22 in Los Angeles, Hawaii’s top source market for visitors. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Insurance Industry Insists It Has Right To Recoup Billions In Paid Wildfire Claims. Victims’ lawyers want the Hawaii Supreme Court to step in. They have asked Maui Judge Peter Cahill to let the high court determine the question central to his ruling, and want the insurance industry to join in on their request as a way to resolve the issue. Civil Beat.

Hawaii automobile sales plunge as owners hang on to vehicles. The dismal outlook comes after new-vehicle registrations plunged 11.8% in the second quarter to bring the midyear decline to 7%. By contrast, national auto sales were up 3.4% through the first six months. Star-Advertiser.

UHERO report spotlights rural health care needs. Rural area residents reported having more health challenges and limitations than their urban counterparts, according to the study produced by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Overall, they rated their health as poorer. Star-Advertiser.

Hone weakens to tropical storm and sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears. Hone passed south of Hawaii and weakened from a hurricane to a tropical storm on Sunday, dumping so much rain that the National Weather Service called off its red flag warnings that strong winds could lead to wildfires on the drier sides of the islands. Associated Press. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines adding Hilo flights Monday after cancellations due to Hone. Hawaiian Airlines has announced it will resume flights to and from Hilo and operate two additional flights between Honolulu and Hilo after several flights were canceled due to Hone. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Impending Legislature leadership change could do same for Kakaako landscape. Kakaako will have a new state House representative in January and new potential for residential high-rise development on poorly utilized land makai of Ala Moana Boulevard owned by the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

New Year’s Day shooting drives rise in attempts to harm police. There have been 21 cases of first-degree attempted murder of a law enforcement officer on Oahu so far this year compared to only three last year, according to the Honolulu Police Department’s data dashboard. Star-Advertiser.

Over 500 firearms collected at Oahu gun buyback event. Officials say they collected more than 500 firearms and numerous rounds of ammunition at the buyback at Aloha Stadium’s lower parking lot on Saturday. The guns and ammo were swapped for $100 and $200 dollar gift cards to Foodland. Hawaii News Now.

Many East Honolulu communities are at high fire risk. Due to its high density, topography and frequent human-­caused ignitions, East Honolulu is considered at moderate to high risk of wildfire, according to the recently published East Honolulu Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hurricane Hone brings heavy rain but no major damage. Hurricane Hone passed within 60 miles of Hawaii Island early Sunday, bringing heavy rain, knocking out power to thousands of customers and snapping native ohia trees like twigs. New York Times.

2 Big Island schools closed Monday due to hazardous road conditions. Ka‘u High & Paaala Elementary School and Na‘alehu Elementary School will be closed to students and staff Monday due to hazardous road conditions. Highway 11 has been shut down by emergency crews, making both campuses inaccessible to families and staff. Star-Advertiser.

Aquarium fishing proposal stalls: DAR seeks to start permit process for commercial fishers. At Friday’s meeting of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, the state Division of Aquatic Resources submitted a request to establish a process to grant permits to commercial aquarium fishers to operate in West Hawaii, something that hasn’t been allowed since 2017. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Faces $1.2 Billion In Unmet Needs For Wildfire Recovery Efforts. No specifics have been released, but the amount would help pay for costs that FEMA isn't authorized to cover. Civil Beat.

This Buddhist Temple Is Collapsing Into The Sea Off Maui. With nearby graves already swallowed by the ocean, sea level rise and coastal erosion are now threatening to destroy an iconic Zen mission and cemetery. Civil Beat.

Hotels on Maui woo back leisure travelers. While many Maui hotels, especially in West Maui, are transitioning back to a leisure travel and group business focus, the transition is more involved for the Royal Lahaina resort, which was all in until its contractual obligations ended at the end of June. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Lane closure scheduled on Kaua‘i highway to replace 3 culverts. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation will be closing a single lane on Kaumualiʻi Highway (Route 50) in the vicinity of Kīkīaola Boat Harbor next week to allow crews to permanently replace three 54-inch culverts. Kauai Now.

The Kaua‘i County Housing Agency’s Section 8 office will be closed from 7:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Sept. 4, to accommodate a staff training. Normal operation and hours will resume from 12:45 p.m. to 4 p.m., that day. Kauai Now.

Tropical storm watch issued as Hone strengthens, Harris loses support of 6 Hawaii delegates over Gaza stance, Honolulu gets more time to find landfill site, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tropical storm watch issued for Hawaii Island as Hone strengthens slightly. A tropical storm watch has been issued for Hawaii Island as Tropical Storm Hone is expected to bring severe weather this weekend. A flood watch has also been posted for Hawaii Island ahead of the storm, which could become a hurricane late Sunday. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.  Star-Advertiser.  Associated Press.

Superintendent Says He’s Managing School Facilities Better. In his self-evaluation, Keith Hayashi says he wants to change contracting methods and use DOE lands more efficiently. Civil Beat.

Backing of Israel costs Harris support from Hawaii delegates. Objections to U.S. policy over the war in Gaza led six of Hawaii’s 31 delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to withhold their support for Vice President Kamala Harris following internal debate. Star-Advertiser.

The DNC Is A Highly Controlled Pep Rally. Hawaii Delegates Say It’s Still Important. The Democratic convention is no longer a place for hammering out party values and selecting candidates, but attendees say it still holds value — even for states with little political sway. Civil Beat.

Behind on electric bills? A spike in disconnections has the state seeking solutions. The Public Utilities Commission estimates that 6,000 households had their power cut in 2023 due to missed payments, which is about double the number of disconnections that occurred in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

ACLU Wants Federal Authorities To Probe Recent Murder, Violence At Arizona Prison. Hawaii is holding 1,000 prisoners at the Saguaro Correctional Center that had a murder, stabbing and fatal drug overdoses in recent months. Civil Beat.

Oahu

State grants Honolulu more time to find new landfill. The state Land Use Commission on Thursday officially granted Honolulu’s request to find Oahu’s next municipal landfill by the end of this year. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Struggles To Find A Remedy For Abandoned Homes Taken Over By Squatters. Neighborhood boards across Oahu are asking the city to seize such properties, which are prone to fire. But the city says that the foreclosure process is unwieldy and expensive. Civil Beat.

Navy talks Red Hill remediation plan amid detection of new chemicals. The Navy intends to keep its remediation schedule outlined in a Red Hill work plan approved by state and federal regulators. It comes amid calls by the Honolulu Board of Water Supply for more frequent testing of its monitoring wells.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu police sergeant’s son gets minimum 15 years for murder. Circuit Judge Shanlyn Park prefaced her sentencing of a Honolulu police sergeant’s son, convicted of murdering 18-year-old Haaheo Kolona on Round Top Drive, with empathy for Kolona’s mother, saying that as a mother she can understand. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Family confirms death of missing military spouse Mischa Johnson. The military has still not officially confirmed Johnson's death, but her family took to social media, pleading for help to get justice for Mischa. KITV4.

Ewa Beach resort developer offers hotel site for sale. The master developer of Ocean Pointe and Hoakalei Resort has listed for sale a lagoon-front piece of land for development of an initial hotel or timeshare complex at the 1,100-acre project in Ewa Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Concerns over Hawaiʻi Island agriculture tax program prompt roll-out delays. A new agricultural tax program is being rolled out on Hawaiʻi Island, but some officials are trying to delay it to appease the worries of local producers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Port Condition Whiskey Set For Hawaiʻi County Seaports Due To Tropical Storm. The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port has set port condition Whiskey for the seaports of Hilo and Kailua-Kona in expectation of sustained gale force winds arriving within 72 hours. Big Island Video News.

8 East Hawai‘i school bus routes to be reinstated next week. School bus service for nearly 200 students, most of them on the Big Island, will be restored starting next week as 8 previously suspended East Hawai‘i routes are reinstated. Big Island Now.

Storm preparations underway on Hawaii Island as Hone expected to bring rain, wind and waves. With potential severe weather ahead, local, state and federal agencies are closely monitoring the forecast. Hawaii County has partially activated its Emergency Operations Center and said they’re keeping a close watch on the Hilo area. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Lahaina financial awards available for about 400 eligible DOE workers. Gov. Josh Green this week announced a new initiative — Lahaina Honoring Employees’ Resilience and Optimism, or HERO, Awards — to recognize state Department of Education employees who have played critical roles in keeping Lahaina schools open following the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires. Star-Advertiser.

Conservationists hope millions of mosquitoes will help save Hawaiʻi's native birds. In an effort to save endangered native forest birds, the multi-agency partnership Birds, Not Mosquitoes has been releasing sterile male mosquitoes on Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

County places embattled Economic Development Director on paid leave. Mayor Bissen enacts several measures in response to internal audit, ethics findings. The County of Maui Office of Economic Development Director Luana Mahi is now on paid leave, pending an investigation regarding her involvement in the alleged misuse of grants and public funds.  Maui News. KHON2.

Public comments sought for draft Honolua to Honokōhau Management Plan. Public comments are due Sept. 9 on a draft environmental assessment for the Honolua to Honokōhau Management Plan, a project by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources State Parks Division to help with planning for the 244-acre coastline on the north shore of West Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

KFD battling brush fire in East Kauai. As of 8:30 p.m. Thursday night, the blaze had burned up to 15 acres of land and was only 20% contained. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Kaua‘i educator among finalists for Hawai‘i State Teacher of the Year. The Kaua‘i teacher among the finalists is Leah ʻAiwohi, who teaches Computer Science, STEM and Career Technical Education at Kaua‘i High School. Kauai Now.

Kapa‘a Bypass rehabilitation work begins. The weekday closure of the Kapa‘a Bypass Road for rehabilitation started this week. Garden Island.

Hawaii Dems hope Harris ties benefit the state, storms intensify as they near Hawaii, Maui economic development director on leave pending investigation into government grants to family members, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Here’s What Hawaii Democrats Say A Harris Presidency Would Mean For The Aloha State. There are expectations that personal relationships and shared concerns will translate into continued federal support for the islands. Call it Biden-Harris 2.0. Civil Beat.

Tropical trouble near Hawaii, including Category 3 Hurricane Gilma. A flair of tropical activity over the eastern Pacific Ocean has Hawaii on alert with at least two systems heading in the direction of the islands. The depression was located about 1,000 miles to the southeast of Hilo, Hawaii.  Accuweather.

Gilma now a major hurricane, while a new tropical cyclone still expected Thursday. As of the 11 p.m. report, the National Hurricane Center said Gilma is a major Category 3 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 115 miles per hour. It was 2,060 miles east-southeast of Hilo and was moving toward the west-northwest at 6 miles per hour. Hawaii News Now.

Tropical rainstorm approaches Hawaii as wildfire risk looms. Hawaii residents are urged to prepare for gusty wind that potentially could spark wildfires as a tropical rainstorm is expected to approach the islands this weekend. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Has Done Little To Shore Up Neighborhoods Against Fire. Some Are Doing It Themselves. Residents aware of the dangers can take some steps to protect their communities, but they’re still looking to government to enforce stricter codes for all.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu police chief scores high in evaluation. Two years into his tenure as Honolulu’s 12th police chief, Arthur “Joe” Logan is exceeding expectations as a leader, innovator and a cost saver while needing to improve internal and external communications, according to his second annual review by the Honolulu Police Commission. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  KHON2.

Honolulu City Council considers additional property tax exemptions for homeowners. The Honolulu City Council is considering a measure that would increase the property tax exemptions for those who own and live in their home. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Do Efforts To Impose Higher Taxes On Empty Homes In Honolulu Keep Stalling? Supporters say the measure would help combat the affordable housing crisis. But questions remain about who should be exempt and how it would be implemented. Civil Beat.

Makakilo rock quarry gets 15-year extension. The state Land Use Commission voted unanimously to extend a special operating permit by 15 years, to 2047 from 2032, for the roughly 200-acre hillside quarry in Makakilo owned by Grace Pacific LLC. Star-Advertiser.

Skyline sees low rail ridership, high monthly costs during first year. It's been just over a year since Honolulu Skyline started up, and it has been slow going for rail when it comes to ridership. KITV4.

Trash truck shortage causes collection delay on Oʻahu. An ongoing shortage of available refuse collection trucks resulted in several routes on Oʻahu being missed this week. Hawaii Public Radio.

20 additional school bus routes restored on O‘ahu, starting Monday, Aug. 26. Service is being restored for approximately 604 student riders enrolled at seven schools. Maui Now.

HPD looks to build citizen ‘army’ to help reduce crime in Waikiki. The Honolulu Police Department  is relaunching its Waikiki Citizen Patrols this Saturday in hopes of getting more residents and businesses engaged in public safety. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi Island lawmakers aim to simplify new short-term rental laws. As the council overhauls Hawaiʻi Island's STR regulations through Bill 121, it has made a series of amendments in response to concerns from homeowners, local officials, and other stakeholders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill permitting street vendors debated, but unresolved. A Hawaii County Council proposal to issue permits to vendors allowing them to sell on county roads generated debate, but wasn’t resolved on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

4.7-magnitude earthquake rattles Hawaii Island amid busy week of seismic activity. A 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck Hawaii Island early Thursday morning, the U.S. Geological Survey said. Authorities confirmed there was no tsunami threat. Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea Visitor Center to close for next 2 years. The expansion of the visitor center is considered phase two of the greater park improvement project, with phase one of the already underway.  Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Economic Development Director Placed On Paid Leave Pending Ethics Investigation. There's an ongoing review of grants administered by the Office of Economic Development under director Luana Mahi. Civil Beat.

Maui officials move forward with securing night chopper for first responders. This week, the county closed off the bidding process for offers from firms to provide the helicopter, and now must decide who will be awarded the contract.  KITV4.

Blessing commemorates acquisition of Pōhākea Watershed in Māʻalaea for conservation. A blessing held Wednesday morning commemorated the acquisition of the 257-acre Pōhākea Watershed parcel that was recently purchased for conservation and preservation in Māʻalaea. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative activates emergency preparedness plan due to Hurricane Gilma.  The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative is monitoring the progress of Hurricane Gilma along with other storm activity in the Pacific and has activated its emergency preparedness plan. Kauai Now.

Hotel performance report: In July, Kaua‘i led counties in revenue per available room. Kaua‘i hotels led the counties in July 2024 revenue per available room at $358 (+7.4% vs. 2023, +55.0% vs. 2019), with average daily rate at $453 (-0.1% vs. 2023, +50.5% vs. 2019) and occupancy of 79.0% (+5.5 percentage points vs. 2023, +2.3 percentage points vs. 2019). Kauai Now.

Hurricane Gilma expected to bring Hawaii weekend storms, Kauai councilman on unpaid leave from teaching job after 'inappropriately' messaging student, Green asks wildfire lawyers to reduce fees, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gilma strengthens to Category 1 hurricane, expected to bring stormy weather over the weekend.  Forecasters are keeping an eye on a pair of weather disturbances over the western portion of the East Pacific basin, about 1,350 miles east-southeast of Hilo. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. National Hurricane Center. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Green leads Hawaii delegation in nominating Kamala Harris. Hawaii delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago donned light-blue, long-sleeved aloha shirts and dresses and wore green “Hawaii for Harris” buttons Tuesday as Gov. Josh Green pledged Hawaii’s support for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the next president of the United States. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Facing Potential $1 Billion Payday, Wildfire Lawyers Advertise For More Clients. Gov. Josh Green calls on lawyers to reduce fees to help the victims, but the settlement still is not final. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Failed To Change The Way It Builds After Earlier Disasters. Will Lahaina Spur Reform? Lahaina will likely be more resilient when it’s rebuilt. But will the rest of Hawaii’s vulnerable communities agree to tougher building codes to defend themselves? Civil Beat.

HIDOE announces finals for 2025 Hawaii State Teacher of the Year. The finalists consist of 15 complex area teachers of the year and one charter school teacher which were announced on Tuesday, Aug. 20.  KITV4.

Oahu

Why officials are grappling with the decision of where to put Oʻahu's next landfill. It’s been almost five years since the state Land Use Commission ordered the city to close Waimānalo Gulch Landfill, located in West Oʻahu, by 2028. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘Frat House’ Culture | HPD faces lawsuit alleging sexual harassment, discrimination. Allegations have been leveled against the Honolulu Police Department and high-ranking officers, claiming sexual harassment, discrimination, and whistle-blower discrimination. KITV4.

HPD arrest State Deputy Sheriff on suspicion of terroristic threatening. Dibiano Bontog, 35, Bontog is accused of pointing what looked like a firearm at some people he believed were illegally fishing, after videotaping them and getting into a confrontation. KITV4. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Wilcox Medical Center awarded $10.6M grant. The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has awarded Hawaii a $10.6 million grant to provide Wilcox Medical Center with state-of-the-art diagnostic and radiology equipment. Spectrum News.

How A Human Bone Collection in Honolulu Aids Forensic Anthropology in Asia. Taking advantage of Hawaii's diverse population, scientists have built the state's first known-identity human osteological lab. Civil Beat.

Second opossum in over one month captured in Honolulu. A live opossum was captured in Honolulu on Monday afternoon, according to Department of Agriculture officials. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Nighttime runway work at Hilo International Airport rescheduled. Nighttime runway work at the Hilo International Airport originally scheduled to start Monday has been rescheduled to Aug. 27 to 30. Big Island Now.

3 Big Island educators named among finalists for Hawai‘i State Teacher of the Year. A total of 15 complex area teachers were named finalists by the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education. Big Island Now.

Maui

County sewage service to be available for first time to Fleming Road lots in Lahaina. For the first time, 29 lots on Fleming Road in Lahaina will have the opportunity to access Maui County sewer service, but there are some requirements for property owners, according to an announcement. Maui Now.

HIDOE names two Maui educators finalists for the 2025 Hawai‘i State Teacher of the Year. The Hawai’i State Department of Education on Tuesday named two Maui educators as finalists among the 15 total state complex area teachers of the year candidates.  Maui News. Maui Now.

Removal of trees at popular Maui park spurs disagreement between county, community members. For decades, South Maui resident Keoki Mokiao and several others have took it upon themselves to tend to the popular Cove Beach Park in Kihei. KITV4.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Councilman ‘inappropriately’ messaged student on social media, school investigation reveals. Kaua’i County Councilman Billy DeCosta was put on unpaid leave from his teaching job at Kapaʻa High School earlier this year due to inappropriately messaging a student on social media, according to a June 20 letter sent to DeCosta from the state Department of Education. Kauai Now.

DHHL apartment purchase plan draws demonstrators on Kauai. A contentious plan by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to buy a Kauai apartment complex for homesteading attracted demonstrators Monday and Tuesday outside a Hawaiian Homes Commission meeting in Wailua. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua‘i Community College gets $1.19 million grant. Kaua‘i Community College announced on Tuesday that it was awarded $1,194,119 by the U.S. Department of Education/Native Hawaiian Education Program. Garden Island.

Hawaiian-Alaska Airlines merger moves forward, insurance board to meet following $60M emergency funding, Honolulu Police whistleblower files discrimination lawsuit, more news from all he Hawaiian Islands

Airlines’ merger clears major hurdle. A proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines cleared its most significant regulatory hurdle Monday after federal antitrust enforcers ended their review period without blocking the deal. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.  Associated Press.

Hawaii Democrats shower Biden with appreciation. Former Hawaii Govs. Neil Abercrombie, Ben Cayetano and John Waihee were among early Democrats who called on Biden to step aside following Biden’s disastrous debate performance against Trump on June 27, which dried up campaign donations and led to panic throughout the party. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

AANHPI Officials Say Their Voters Are The Key To Democrats Winning In 2024. Political leaders locally and on the mainland argue that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are already a core constituency. Civil Beat.

Elite forces focus on protecting the region. The Indo-Pacific Irregular Warfare Symposium, organized by the Global SOF Foundation, brought participants from 26 countries to the Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Tapa Tower from Tuesday through Thursday.  Star-Advertiser.

Board overseeing Hawaiʻi hurricane insurance fund to meet. The Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund board will meet next week to discuss strategies for stabilizing the hurricane insurance market, following an emergency proclamation freeing up to $60 million for relief. Hawaii Public Radio.

An Overlooked Factor In Hawaii Wildfires: They’re Fed By The Houses In Their Paths. Disasters like the one in Lahaina last year are often thought of as wildfires. In fact, experts say, they are urban fires whose spread depends on the way houses and neighborhoods are built. Civil Beat.

$3.9M grant to support Native Hawaiian student health, wellbeing, more. A $3.9 million grant aimed to improve the academic success alongside the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of Native Hawaiian keiki has been awarded to a pair of University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education professors. Big Island Now.

Oahu

BWS talks new chemicals in ʻAiea well ahead of Red Hill-related meetings. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply says it is worried about contaminants detected in an ʻAiea well that the agency shut down as a precaution immediately following the 2021 Red Hill fuel spill. Hawaii Public Radio.

Which Oahu communities lack fire hydrants and the practices in place for their protection. According to the Honolulu Board of Water Supply, several communities across Oahu either lack or are without fire hydrants.  Hawaii News Now.

HPD whistleblower alleges sexual discrimination. A Honolulu police officer filed a lawsuit against the department Friday alleging whistleblower retaliation after she reported male training academy staff who allegedly discriminated against female recruits and engaged in sexual relations with others. Star-Advertiser.

Husband in custody as search continues for missing Army wife. The Army announced Monday that it has detained the husband of a missing pregnant Army spouse in connection with her disappearance. Star-Advertiser.

‘I felt like this was my last moment’: ‘Ewa woman after being attacked by over 15 dogs. An ‘Ewa woman is speaking out after she said more than a dozen dogs attacked her while she was running on a trail near her home on Sunday. KHON2.

Overdoses Kill More People Than Ever. Advocates Want To Be There For Those Who Survive. Hawaii Health & Harm Reduction Center is pursuing a formal partnership with Honolulu EMS that would allow its outreach workers to reach more patients. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Proposed measure would increase cell tower construction regulations. In response to community concerns about telecommunications antennas and towers being constructed near or within their communities, Kohala Councilwoman Cindy Evans will introduce a measure today that will require more material from telecom companies in order to get their building permits approved. Tribune-Herald.

County bill would establish permit system for roadside vendors. Roadside vendors will need a permit to hawk their wares on county roads under a measure being considered by a Hawaii County Council committee today.  Tribune-Herald.

EPA Orders Closure Of Cesspool In Puna. Retreat Village at Kalani Kai, LLC, was identified as having an illegal Large Capacity Cesspool, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui farmers say fires caused financial hardship — and future remains uncertain. It's been over a year since a destructive wildfire swept through Maui and farmers are still struggling to recuperate their losses. Hawaii Public Radio.

Artificial intelligence fire sensors deployed on Maui. The County says its N5 shield program will monitor air conditions and send real-time alerts to the Maui Fire Department when it detects any changes that may indicate flames are spreading. Hawaii News Now.

Hui O Ka Wai Ola says measures taken after fire helped protect Lahaina ocean water quality.  A report summarizes changes–both improvements and declines–in water quality over eight years of data collection and confirms that measurements at sites in the Lahaina area remain within normal ranges.  Maui News.

Mokulele gets Lanai subsidies, grounds planes. Southern Airways Express LLC, doing business as Mokulele Airlines, began grounding a portion of its fleet to inspect and address findings of a routine maintenance check on Saturday — a day after the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded it roughly $4 million per year for two years in federal subsidies to provide essential air service to Lanai. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kaua‘i homeowners may receive up to $20K for cesspool conversion; grant program opens Aug. 28. The Residential Cesspool Conversion Grant Program will provide selected qualified homeowners with up to $20,000 to reimburse the cost of upgrading existing cesspools to individual wastewater systems approved by the Hawai‘i State Department of Health-Wastewater Branch. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i Fire, county officials bless new engine for Kalāheo station. The Kaua‘i Fire Department held a blessing at the Kalāheo Fire Station for a new fire truck, replacing its 16-year-old front-line emergency response engine. Kauai Now.