Final gubernatorial debate before Election Day, long-shot challengers seek to unseat Hirono, Gabbard, coral researcher Gates dies, vacation rentals, rape kits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Screenshot: gubernatorial debate highlights. KITV.

Gubernatorial debate highlights. KITV.

Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola pledged to do more to cope with Hawaii’s crime problem if she is elected governor, while Gov. David Ige used a televised hourlong debate Monday night to stress his record of accomplishment in areas such as building housing and coping with homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Ige, Tupola Spar In Final Debate Before Election Day. The candidates field questions about housing, sea level rise, President Trump and their own running mates for lieutenant governor. Civil Beat.

Here’s how the gubernatorial candidates stand on some of the biggest issues facing Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige has spent nearly $359,000 on his general election campaign against Republican Andria Tupola so far, and has spent more than $2.88 million on his overall re-election effort, according to his latest report with the state Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

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U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono explains fiery dialogue while Congressional challenger seeks change. Republican challenger and political newcomer Ron Curtis wants a less divisive Washington and even avoids directly criticizing Hirono. Hawaii News Now.

Coffee with a Candidate: Republican candidate for U.S. Senate Ron Curtis. Curtis describes himself as a common sense, moderate, reform Republican. Hawaii News Now.

A Vegas Crooner Faces Long Odds In Quest To Unseat Tulsi Gabbard. Maui Republican Brian Evans switched parties to run against the congresswoman. He says she’s more interested in running for president than serving her district. Civil Beat.

The price of paradise: Hawaii ranks highest in the nation for utility costs. Hawaii News Now.

This week Germany technology takes the spotlight at the University of Hawaii. Denis Salle of the honorary General Counsel is a spark plug behind a conference taking place tomorrow. He has brought together green energy experts from Germany to share their experience and to see how they can help Hawaii reach its energy goals by 2045. Hawaii Public Radio.

RIP Ruth Gates: The World Loses A Top Coral Scientist And ‘Indomitable Spirit’. The University of Hawaii researcher was working on creative ways to preserve the ocean’s dwindling reefs in the face of climate change. She never lost hope. Civil Beat.

Researcher was leading advocate for protecting corals. Ruth Gates, the University of Hawaii-Manoa marine biologist who was a prominent voice in the fight to save the world’s coral reefs, died Thursday following a bout with brain cancer. Star-Advertiser.

Critical shortage of doctors prompting range of solutions. The neighbor islands and parts of rural Oahu are suffering a critical doctor shortage. Whether it's older doctors retiring sooner, or young doctors driven out of Hawaii by high costs or lured by mainland incentives, it's been an uphill battle finding a cure for a physician workforce that's way too small. KHON2.

Hawaii Biotech is going to receive 38 million dollars in federal funding in order to develop a drug to treat anthrax. The money is coming from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to begin pre-clinical studies of a drug for the treatment. KITV.

Hawaii Biotech received a five-year $38.5 million contract from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to develop an anti-toxin drug for anthrax in humans on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday will try for a third time to obtain from the Honolulu Planning Commission a favorable recommendation for a draft omnibus bill addressing all things related to short-term vacation rentals, this time with a version that places more stringent limits on the number of bed-and-breakfast establishments and transient vacation units that would be allowed. Star-Advertiser.

Borrowing costs for rail have increased by $42 million, a report states. The cost of borrowing money to finance the Honolulu rail project is climbing despite the injection of nearly $1.2 billion in additional cash from last year’s controversial statewide hotel room tax increase, according to new financial data for the project. Star-Advertiser.

USS Arizona Memorial to be closed on Dec. 7. Survivors of the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor will not be allowed to visit the USS Arizona Memorial this Dec. 7 due to its dock repair project. Star-Advertiser.

USS Arizona Memorial dock expected to be completed by March 2019. The National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on December 7th, will have long passed. KITV.

State House District 40 includes Ewa, Ewa Beach, Ewa Gentry and Iroquois Point in West O’ahu.  Incumbent, Bob McDermott, is one of 4 Republicans in the 51-member House of Representatives. Hawaii Public Radio.

Exclusive behind the scenes look inside HPD's 911 call center. The Honolulu Police Department's Communications Division is the largest Public Safety Answering Point in the state. KHON2.

Lawmakers, state agencies host reverse job fair for persons with developmental disabilities. State Legislators and government agencies will host the "Empowering All Abilities" Job Fair on Oct. 30 at the State Capitol, a reverse job fair for persons with developmental disabilities. KHON2.


Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim announced Monday that the Leilani Estates checkpoint will remain active for at least another month. The checkpoint, which prevents anyone but authorized residents access to Leilani Estates, was scheduled to be removed by the end of October, but will instead continue to operate until the end of November. Tribune-Herald.

Under pressure, Hawaii County officials look to grant lava access. A checkpoint blocking public access to Leilani Estates will remain in place for at least another month while officials search for ways to give visitors a safe and legal way to see the lava field and 300-foot cinder cone left behind from Kilauea Volcano’s most active hot spot, Mayor Harry Kim told the Honolulu Star- Advertiser on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County, the birthplace of an actress’ initiative devoted to DNA testing of rape kits, is getting a federal grant to bring in experts to clear out its rape kit backlog. West Hawaii Today.

The state is giving the green light to the last of eight dispensaries to begin growing pakalolo. Lau Ola, run by Big Island farmer Richard Ha, received approval from the Health Department, more than a year after medical marijuana sales started on Maui and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Kealakehe Intermediate School’s Mathieu Williams named Hawaii Teacher of the Year. The seven-year educator was named the Hawaii State Teacher of the Year Saturday night in Honolulu for his innovative teaching style that demands passion, curiosity and community building from his students. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Farming convention Upcountry digs into improved soil health. Speakers emphasize strengthening the soil through natural means. Maui News.

Safeway will celebrate the re-grand opening of its newly remodeled store in Lahaina Cannery Mall on Wednesday, Oct. 31. Maui Now.

Maui Health System has appointed Kerry Pitcher the new Administrator of Kula Hospital and Lanai Community Hospital. Maui Now.

Kauai

County Council candidate: Shaylene Iseri. Making Kauai a better place to live and work is why Anahola resident Shaylene Iseri is once again running for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Treatment Healing Center moving along. Life’s Choices coordinator Theresa Koki, Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and several county dignitaries visited the site recently to watch the Adolescent Treatment and Healing Center receive its concrete pour for the facility’s foundation. Garden Island.

Kealoha trial delayed, City Council to move out of Honolulu Hale, Kamehameha Schools pays $65M to settle sex abuse lawsuit, Maui ballot initiative to raise unlicensed vacation rental fine to $20k, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Hale ©2018 All Hawaii News

Mayor Caldwell questions city council’s decision to relocate from Honolulu Hale to new million-dollar digs. The city council approved funding for one year’s rent at Alii Tower in downtown. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is trying to stop city council members from spending more than a million dollars to move from Honolulu Hale to a high-end downtown office building. Hawaii News Now.

Health concerns prompt city council's proposal to move out of Honolulu Hale. Council members tell us their portion of the building has been making employees sick. KHON2.

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Kealoha trial delayed after review of Katherine’s medical records. A federal judge Tuesday afternoon delayed the start of next month’s bank fraud trial of retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas’ Bank Fraud Trial Delayed Until 2019. The federal magistrate scolded the prosecutor for claiming Katherine Kealoha had a history of “feigning serious illness.” Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s trial delayed due to undisclosed medical condition. It’s the latest in a long list of medical claims Kealoha has used over the years. Hawaii News Now.

Judge grants Katherine Kealoha's request to delay trial over medical condition. KHON2.

A federal judge moved the start date of the bank fraud trial against former Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, and her husband, former Chief of Police in Honolulu Louis Kealoha to 2019 because of an undisclosed medical condition. KITV.

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Elected officials from Hawaii, California, and Alaska gathered at the White House for a 'State Leadership Day' event. KITV.

Kamehameha pays $65 million as part of settlement of sex abuse lawsuit. Kamehameha Schools has taken a major step to close one of the most tumultuous chapters in its long and storied history, paying $65 million to 32 plaintiffs who sued the institution for the sexual abuse they suffered decades ago at the hands of a psychiatric consultant. Star-Advertiser.

As early voting begins, Tupola, Ige point out distinct differences in opinions. The two are preparing for the General Election on Nov. 6. Hawaii News Now.

Gabbard Spending A Lot Of Campaign Cash, But Not All Of It In Hawaii. The congresswoman is hiring well-known national consultants despite having an easy path to re-election. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines' net up 31% after 'eventful' quarter. Two hurricanes in Hawaii, a typhoon in Japan, lingering impacts from the Kilauea eruption and rising fuel costs didn’t prevent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. from carrying the most passengers of any third quarter ever or achieving a solid financial performance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Holdings Inc., the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, reported a 30.6 percent increase in earnings to $93.5 million in the third quarter of 2018, bolstered by a 6 percent increase in revenue to $759 million. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City is on track repaving roads islandwide, Caldwell says. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday announced that more than 2,000 lane miles of roads in Honolulu have been repaved over the last five years and that fixing the city’s roads and potholes remains a high priority. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell: City is exceeding road repaving goals, despite recent ranking. About 2,000 lane miles have been repaved at lower costs, the mayor says. Hawaii News Now.

The city says it's ahead of schedule when it comes to fixing the island's roads. So far, the city has repaved 2,000 lane miles and filled over 16,000 potholes. KHON2.

Mayor Caldwell claims the City has repaved more than 2,000 lane miles on Oahu. KITV.

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Honolulu Councilman blames mayor for stalling beach access plan. Efforts to secure a small lane for public access to a beach off Portlock Road have been stalled by Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration, and City Councilman Trevor Ozawa, who represents the area, is questioning whether election-year politics is to blame. Star-Advertiser.

Early Walk-In Voting started today across the state. Twenty people were waiting in line at Honolulu Hale when the polling station opened at 8am. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapolei Public Library closed until further notice after pipe bursts, floods first floor. Officials say an air conditioning cooling pipe burst, causing water to spill from the ceiling onto the building's first floor. KHON2.

Queen’s to expand services in West Oahu. The Queen’s Health Systems is planning an expansion that will double the amount of facilities at its West Oahu campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s largest wind farm has come up with a new proposal to offset, and hopefully reduce, killings of endangered Hawaiian hoary bats. Star-Advertiser.

Helicopter removed from Kaneohe Bay, NTSB investigating crash. The tour helicopter that went down in Kaneohe Bay Monday afternoon has been pulled from the water, though what exactly happened remains under investigation. KHON2.

The FAA and NTSB are continuing an investigation into what caused a tour helicopter to crash near the Kaneohe Bay sandbar on Monday afternoon, seriously injuring three people on board. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Visitor numbers down for the fourth month in a row. The impact of the Kilauea eruption on the Big Island’s tourism industry continues to be felt as official tourism data from September indicates a fourth consecutive month of declining hotel visits. Tribune-Herald.

East, West Hawaii Come Together On Water Quality. Big Island Video News.

Residents invited to get to know Innergex. A Canadian-based renewable energy company will host a community meeting next week in Waimea about its proposed solar project on Parker Ranch land. Tribune-Herald.

David De Luz Sr. remembered by friends, family. Prominent Big Island businessman David De Luz Sr. is being remembered by those who knew him as a role model and self-made entrepreneur who worked hard to achieve success. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Should Unlicensed Airbnbs On Maui Face A $20,000 Fine? Voters will decide whether to amend the county charter to crack down on the proliferation of vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

West Maui Taxpayers Association to Host 2018 Candidates Night. The WMTA Candidates Night, the only forum of its kind in West Maui, and will feature the candidates for State Senator District 06, State Representative District 10, Maui mayor and Maui County Councilmembers—all districts. Maui Now.

Paltin, Nava face off in general election. In what is arguably one of the most closely watched County Council races this election cycle, Tamara Paltin and Rick Nava hope to fill the West Maui residency seat soon to be vacated by Elle Cochran, who is running for mayor. Maui News.

Kihei Charter School Opens in Permanent Location. After 18-years, Kihei Charter School has finally found a permanent home at the top of Līpoa Parkway in Kihei within the Maui Research and Technology Park. Maui Now.

Kauai

County Council Candidate: Juno Apalla. When it comes to vision, Juno Apalla strives for efficiency. Garden Island.

DHHL boots CrossFit from building. Organizers of the free community gym in Anahola are getting their ducks in a row after being kicked out of their space in an old church because they didn’t have proper permits. Garden Island.

Voting starts Tuesday, Case and Cavasso debate, rail audit pending, Maui and Kauai mayoral candidates profiled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii ballot testing ©2018 All Hawaii News

Walk-in absentee voting for the general election begins Tuesday and runs through Nov. 3. Registered voters are allowed to visit any early walk-in voting location in their county to cast their ballot. Star-Advertiser.

Does Hawaii Need a Constitutional Convention? Every 10 years Hawaii voters are required to decide whether or not to call for a convention to amend the state constitution. A Constitutional Convention, or ConCon, hasn’t happened in Hawaii since 1978. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Friday threw off the November ballot a proposed constitutional amendment that would have established a surcharge on investment property to help fund public education. Associated Press.

Ed Case and Cam Cavasso bring familiar names to congressional race. Star-Advertiser.

Why GOP Congressional Candidate Cam Cavasso Won’t Quit Running. The former legislator hasn’t won an election since 1988, yet he keeps taking on Hawaii’s Democrats in federal races. Civil Beat.

Democrat Ed Case and Republican Cam Cavasso squared off with the general election just around the corner. It was a lively showdown between two candidates hoping to earn a seat on Capitol Hill. Hawaii News Now.

Who’s Who On The Ballot For The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs. Up for grabs are three OHA at-large seats, as well as seats representing Maui and Oahu. Civil Beat.

The contested case hearing alleging ethics violations against Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Rowena Akana will start Monday morning despite attempts in court last week to block or delay the proceeding. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Couple Faces Deportation Of Adopted Sons With Down Syndrome. A federal agency says their parents, Ryan and Francheska Grogan, failed to prove the adoptions met legal requirements. Civil Beat.

Marriott, Kyo-ya to meet with hotel workers union over contract negotiations. About 2,700 Hawaii union hotel workers have been on strike since Oct. 8 after negotiating for higher wages, better benefits and job security. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Time is running out to resolve a series of disputes between the Hawaii State Auditor and staff at the Honolulu rail project, and that time crunch may limit how much the public will learn about what has gone wrong with rail. Star-Advertiser.

Former city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha is faking an illness to delay her trial next month on multiple counts of bank fraud, according to federal prosecutors. Star-Advertiser.

Community and federal government in conflict over opposing plans for Aiea site. The state is trying to fast-track plans to develop a $70 million veterans home mostly funded by the federal government, but a last-minute decision on where to build the facility has created a backlash. Star-Advertiser.

Younger patients prefer urgent care clinics, and health care providers are delivering. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ag survey reports nearly $28M in damages caused by eruption. Fewer than 50 Big Island farmers reported nearly $28 million in total agricultural damages in a survey of farmers affected by the Kilauea eruption published last week. Tribune-Herald.

Bulldozing begins on Highway 137; temporary road over lava rock to be used by landowners, area residents first. Tribune-Herald.

Salary Commission finds setting salaries a tricky business. Among their ranks are a physician, a retired stockbroker, two engineers and a tax manager. Four of the eight are former government employees and one works for a consulting firm doing business with the county. West Hawaii Today.

Innergex Renewable Energy wins two Hawaiian Electric solar-plus-storage project bids: Public presentations set for Oct. 29 and Nov. 1 to discuss Waimea project. West Hawaii Today.

A series of free presentations planned around the Big Island intend to educate residents and health care professionals about medically assisted death in the “Our Care, Our Choice” Act, which goes into effect Jan. 1. Tribune-Herald.

Trashing tires tiresome for county. Hawaii County doesn’t consider tires rubbish, but that hasn’t stopped residents from abandoning them on roadsides or dropping them off at transfer stations in defiance of official policy. West Hawaii Today.

Small farm homesteads are planned for a former sugar plantation site. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wants to reduce a backlog of beneficiaries waiting for homesteads by offering a new kind of land lease: small farm sites. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Mayoral candidates give preview of administrations. In the lead-up to the Nov. 6 Election Day showdown, mayoral candidates Elle Cochran and Mike Victorino have dished on issues ranging from housing to agriculture to tourism and the economy. Maui News.

Hawaii’s only farmer serving as a lawmaker at the state Capitol is questioning Gov. David Ige’s pledge to double local food production by 2020, and Rep. Lynn DeCoite believes legislators should be shifting more taxpayer dollars from tourism into agriculture, which makes up less than 1 percent of the state’s total budget. Maui News.

An activity center with ziplines, a giant swing, tightropes and other challenges is being proposed for a portion of the former Experience at Koele Golf Course on Lanai. Maui News.

Kauai

In Kauai Mayor’s Race, Rapozo Faces Uphill Battle Against Kawakami. The County Council chairman looks for a turnaround after being significantly outpolled by the former state representative in the primary. Civil Beat.

The Elections Division of the Office of the County Clerk will begin offering late voter registration and early voting services in the basement of the Historic County Annex this week. Garden Island.

An abandoned Kauai church that transformed into a gym this June helped youth stay off of drugs and out of trouble; but without the proper permits, the facility had to shut down. Hawaii News Now.

And then there were 6. It was feeding time at the predator-proof nesting area on Kauai’s North Shore, but one of the Newell’s shearwater (‘a‘o) chicks didn’t show up for breakfast. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige ahead 21 percentage points in poll, Honolulu moves closer to property taxes for rail, Danner arrested at Kauai Native Hawaiian encampment, Maui rescinds $100k grant for council aide, no tax break for lava-impacted businesses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige, Tupola ©2018 All Hawaii News

Civil Beat Poll: Voters Want Ige To Stick Around As Hawaii’s Governor. Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola trails by 21 percentage points among likely Hawaii voters in the latest survey. Civil Beat.

Commission Doubles Fines For First-Time Campaign Spending Violators. New penalties were levied against 25 candidates and committees.Candidates who violate campaign finance laws will face stiffer penalties after a state commission voted to double some fines for first-time offenders Wednesday. Civil Beat.

State aquaculture sales in ’17 held steady at $76.4 million. Hawaii’s aquaculture industry needed fewer workers last year but maintained sales close to a 2014 peak, according to a recent federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City council takes one step closer to dipping into property taxes for rail. A proposal that allows the city to use property taxes to pay for the rail project moved forward today at city council and is one step closer to becoming reality. KHON2.

Council advances bill to raise $44M for rail from city bonds. A bill allowing $44 million in city money to be used to help pay for the $8 billion-plus rail project won preliminary approval from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Strange Intersection Of A Rail Deadline And City Council Politics. The incumbent has stalled council bills considered crucial for the project, while the challenger is a close ally of the mayor who leads the charge for rail. Civil Beat.

Class-action lawsuit alleges city negligence worsened East Honolulu flooding. A group of East Honolulu residents are taking the city to court, saying its negligence contributed to historic flooding in April that did millions of dollars in damages to Oahu homes. Hawaii News Now.

City of Honolulu sued over April floods. The City and County of Honolulu now faces a lawsuit stemming from April floods, that damaged hundreds of East Oahu homes. KITV.

State department head sues city over flood damage. The head of the state Public Housing Authority is suing the city. KHON2.

Commission gets tough on ‘monster homes’. Honolulu Planning Commission members unanimously endorsed a draft bill Wednesday that is tougher than what the city Department of Planning and Permitting proposed. Star-Advertiser.

Contractors complain city’s permitting delays are forcing workforce lay-offs. Permitting department pledges to find ways to improve. Hawaii News Now.

Why Are City Lawmakers Involved In This Lobbyist’s Backyard Tiff? Alicia Maluafiti’s dog kennels are upsetting her Ewa Beach neighbors. Now City Council Chair Ernie Martin has introduced a bill that would legalize them. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council candidate Tommy Waters claims smear campaign against him and supporters. Those who support former representative Waters say they are being targeted by people who oppose their candidate. KITV.

Greenpeace’s historic ship in Honolulu after studying Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Officials will also host tours to highlight the threat of plastic pollution. Hawaii News Now.

Wife, daughter of HPD lieutenant perish in Kaimuki fire. Honolulu Police Lt. Nathan Wharton, the husband and father of the victims, was not home at the time of the fire. Star-Advertiser.

Man challenges conviction for killing friend, claims Hawaiian sovereignty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council rejects tax relief for Pahoa, Volcano. Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara was unable to muster support Wednesday for a resolution seeking to provide tax relief for commercial properties in Pahoa and Volcano. Tribune-Herald.

DWS hopeful Honokohau deep well to return to service by end of October. North Kona has been without four of its 14 water sources for months, but the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply believes it will revise that ratio in the coming days. West Hawaii Today.

A pedestrian trail that meanders from Kohala Lighthouse to recently acquired county land at Kapanaia Road now belongs to the public, with the County Council on Wednesday unanimously accepting an easement as part of a 2002 settlement agreement with a developer. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo doctor, four of his employees arrested for alleged drug trafficking. Dr. Ernest Bade was apprehended at his clinic at 260 Osorio Lane in Hilo by U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency officers and Hawaii County deputies Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council Planning Committee on Tuesday advanced a bill to regulate the Big Island’s short-term vacation rentals. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County officials terminated a $100,000 grant awarded to an executive assistant of Council Member Alika Atay for events celebrating Queen Kaahumanu’s 250th birthday and now will take over reviews and payments of $46,000 in outstanding receipts owed to vendors. Maui News.

The Maui County Planning Department will hold two more meetings—Oct. 18 and Oct. 23, 2018—on its proposed revisions to the Maui Planning Commission’s rules on Special Management Area (SMA) permits and the shoreline area. Maui Now.

The Maui County Department of Public Works will hold a community meeting Oct. 30, 2018, to discuss shoreline erosion along Lower Honoapiilani Road at Kaopala Bay in Kahana. Maui Now.

The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua in Maui has sold for almost $1 million a room — one of the state’s highest hotel sales on a per-room basis ever. Star-Advertiser.

Sale of Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui to Blackstone closes. Pacific Business News.

Rock icon Steven Tyler to perform for one night only on Maui. The lead singer of Aerosmith will play on Dec. 27. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Prominent Native Hawaiian activist Robin Danner and her son were arrested Wednesday during a confrontation with state Department of Hawaiian Home Land enforcement officers and officers of the Kauai Police Department over a disputed campsite near Anahola Beach Park. Garden Island.

The state Department of Health canceled a brown water advisory Monday, the first of several that had been in effect since Aug. 31, just days after remnants of Hurricane Lane drenched the islands. Garden Island.

More than half oppose education property tax in poll, Ige and Tupola debate, ballots in the mail, hotel strikers cited for trespassing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii 2018 general election ballot © 2018 All Hawaii News

Civil Beat Poll: Hawaii Voters Oppose ConAm On Property Taxes. While there is sentiment to help schools and teachers, voters appear worried about how the ballot question is constructed. Asked how they would vote on the so-called “ConAm” question, 53 percent said they would oppose it compared to just 35 percent who would vote in favor. Civil Beat.

Parents will join teachers at dozens of public schools across the state on Tuesday morning to rally in support of a proposed constitutional amendment regarding education. The proposed constitutional amendment, set to go before voters on Nov. 6, reads: “Shall the legislature be authorized to establish, as provided by law, a surcharge on investment real property to be used to support public education?” Hawaii News Now.

Governor David Ige and state Representative Andria Tupola square off in first televised debate. KHON2.

Ige, Tupola spar in debate that includes running mates. Andria Tupola criticized Democratic Gov. David Ige for not doing enough to increase affordable housing, cool classrooms, make the state’s roads safer, reduce the waiting list for Hawaiian homelands and reduce homelessness, during a one-hour gubernatorial debate Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Debate: Lieutenant governor candidates closing statements. KHON2.

Voting in the 2018 general election has begun now that the county clerks on three islands sent out tens of thousands of absentee mail-in ballots during the past week. Star-Advertiser.

Hirono Rakes In The Campaign Cash Following Kavanaugh Hearing. While the Hawaii senator doesn’t face much of a challenge in November, her campaign is raising and spending money like she does. Civil Beat.

CD-1: Democrat Ed Case on the Campaign Trail. Two veteran politicians are vying for the Congressional District One seat to represent urban Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Strike leaves some guests grumbling. So far, there’s no end in sight for the strike, which began Oct. 8 when negotiations between Unite Here Local 5 and Kyo-ya Hotels &Resorts, which owns the Marriott-managed Sheraton Waikiki, The Royal Hawaiian, Westin Moana Surfrider, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani and Sheraton Maui, reached an impasse. Star-Advertiser.

No Talks Scheduled Yet in Hotel Strike. Here in Hawaii, 2,700 workers are on the picket lines outside five hotels managed by Marriott and owned by Kyo-Ya. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sears has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection Monday and announced 142 stores across the country are closing, however none of the six stores in Hawaii are on that list. KITV.

While Sears’ bankruptcy filing won’t have an immediate effect on its four Hawaii stores, the potential closing of the four mall anchors would open up nearly 500,000 square feet of vacancy and have a dramatic effect on retail vacancy rates in parts of Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen died Oct. 15 in Seattle from complications of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He was 65 years old. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City Mistakenly OK’d Permit For Site With Native Hawaiian Remains. A residential development is on hold while a developer devises a plan for the iwi — 12 years after the state warned the city of their possible presence. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit accuses Head Start operator of inflating enrollment with ‘ghost children’. The whistleblower alleges Head Start pre-K program defrauded the federal government of over $100M. Hawaii News Now.

Construction is set to start on a condominium tower in Kakaako that will begin to fill in the middle of the Ward Village community planned largely on old retail and warehouse property. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaiian blessing ceremony held today in Kakaako for the groundbreaking of Ward Village's newest high-rise tower, Aalii. KITV.

Giant pothole blamed for sidelining 9 vehicles in Zipper lane. The state Transportation Department said Freeway Service Patrol crews helped nine drivers with tire damage after running over the pothole. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Charter Commission eyes PONC fund: Committee recommends cutting back property taxes going to land preservation. West Hawaii Today.

After widespread testimony against proposed administrative rules for Mauna Kea, changes are being considered by the University of Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

After nearly a decade in the making, new adult day center in Hilo is dedicated. The long-awaited Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Adult Day Center was dedicated Monday, nearly a decade after plans for such a facility were first discussed. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Strikers at Sheraton Maui Issued Trespass Citations. The three employees were passing out leaflets to guests in the hotel’s porte corchere, informing them of the strike which impacts their hotel and four other hotels in Hawaii. Maui Now.

Hotel employee on strike detained for trespassing. Last week, three people on strike over contract negotiations wanted to hand out fliers to guests staying at the Sheraton Maui hotel in Lahaina. They were detained for trespassing. KITV.

Maalaea condo groups working on wastewater alternatives. Health Department citations issued for three condominium complexes. Maui News.

Maui Police: 5 Unclaimed Remains at Forensic Facility. Department officials said they hope to get in touch with family members of the deceased. Maui Now.

Maui woman killed while sunbathing at popular beach park. A woman was killed while sunbathing early Sunday evening at Hookipa Beach Park on Maui's north shore. KHON2.

Hookipa Sunbather Dies After Being Run Over by Truck. Maui Now.

Kauai

Gov. David Ige signed a fourth supplementary proclamation extending the emergency relief period for the Kauai floods that occurred in April 2018. Garden Island.

A Kauai hula dancer has filed a lawsuit against a restaurant and hotel, stating she was retaliated against on the basis of her sex and for reporting sexual harassment and the failure to protect her from sexual harassment. Garden Island

No special session for volcano recovery, monster houses on Oahu, vacation rentals in Hawaii County, ending term limits for Kauai, cesspools on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea Fissure 8, Sept. 6, 2018, USGS photo

House: No Special Session For Kilauea Recovery. The State Legislature will take up the issue of funding recovery efforts during the regular legislative session beginning in January 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Prospects for special legislative session for disaster recovery funds for Puna dwindling. Mayor Harry Kim continued to hold out hope Friday for a last-minute special session of the state Legislature to approve disaster recovery funding for Puna, even as lawmakers say that window has closed. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmaker: ‘A more solid plan’ needed before convening special session on disaster funding. Some were hoping a special session would be held to address immediate needs. Hawaii News Now.

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Here’s How The Top Contenders For Governor Shake Out On Key Issues. Gov. David Ige and state Rep. Andria Tupola both oppose using LNG to produce electricity. But their differences shine through on other topics. Civil Beat.

4 former governors weigh in on controversial constitutional amendment. In the commercial spot paid for by the Affordable Hawaii Coalition, former governors George Ariyoshi, John Waihe’e, Ben Cayetano and Neil Abercrombie appear in a conference call-like setting, all stating their opposition to the proposal. Hawaii News Now.

With the election less than a month away, Hawaii voters will be deciding on a constitutional amendment that would add a surcharge on investment property to help fund public education. Garden Island.

Voters to decide on Hawaii Constitutional Convention. The last ConCon was in 1978, and there wer 102 delegates. Each delegate was chosen by voters. KHON2.

Strike-related dampening of visitor numbers could cross into 2019. Some 2,700 Marriott hotel workers in Hawaii spent a sixth day on strike Saturday, seeking higher wages and better benefits while exacerbating challenges to the state’s visitor industry, which already has had to deal with floods, a volcanic eruption and hurricanes. Star-Advertiser.

Cooperation to Fight Competition in the Air. Seven months into a comprehensive partnership, Hawaiian Airlines and Japan Airlines have already deepened their connection in key ways. Hawaii Public Radio.

How technology is transforming Hawaii agriculture. Hawaii’s farmers, large and small, will have to embrace technology if they want to compete with one another, as well as the global market. That was the general consensus of a recent panel on precision agriculture, hosted by the Hawaii Business Roundtable and the University of Hawaii on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

‘Monster houses’ bill is criticized as not addressing the cause of the problem. The draft of a bill designed to crack down on Oahu’s illegal large-scale houses, or so-called monster homes, is already drawing fire — and it hasn’t even gotten its first public hearing. Star-Advertiser.

We May Finally Get To See Honolulu Police Salary Information. A judge’s rejection of a police union challenge clears the way for the release of names and pay levels for hundreds of officers. Civil Beat.

Experts: Lack Of Mental Health Treatment Among The Culprits In Police Shootings. Six armed suspects have been shot and killed by Honolulu police in recent weeks. Four appear to have suffered from mental health problems. Civil Beat.

Rivals compete for Ewa Beach Senate seat. Matt LoPresti and Kurt Fevella are old Ewa Beach political adversaries whose rivalry is so intense that they have, at different times, called the police on one another. Star-Advertiser.

Race for Mililani House seat pits veteran against rookie. In state House District 36 that covers Mililani Mauka and part of Mililani, a Republican is squaring off against a Democrat to replace a Democrat who won the seat as a Republican. Star-Advertiser.

The commander of American Veterans Hawaii said he will somehow remove 28 enormous concrete pilings — many nearly 60 feet long — that he had trucked in without permission to the former Marine Corps Air Station Ewa, a Dec. 7, 1941, battlefield that’s on the National Register of Historic Places. Star-Advertiser.

Nonprofit aids startups finding green solutions in energy, transportation. Start-up companies offering battery-operated airplanes, a video-based monitoring system to verify how fish are caught and new ways to install, track and store solar technology are among Elemental Excelerator’s newest cohort for 2019. Star-Advertiser.

Noise from Local 5 strike impacting businesses, guests. For a week now, the peace in Waikiki has been disrupted. The chants, drums, and bells can get loud, affecting neighboring businesses. KHON2.

Second tower adds 245 units to Ritz-Carlton hotel property. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Revised vacation rental bill comes back to Council. The fifth version of a bill regulating short-term vacation rentals will be considered by the County Council Planning Committee on Tuesday, taking into account recommendations from the Leeward and Windward planning commissions and the Planning Department. West Hawaii Today.

A number of recommendations are being made to alter the charter sections dealing with Hawaii County's Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund. Big Island Video News.

Water Supply Dismantling Proposal Opposed. Speakers testified during a Charter Commission meeting against creating a new Department of Water Sustainability. Big Island Video News.

Only one firm shows interest in former Uncle Billy’s site; Study needed before state can proceed with redevelopment. Tribune-Herald.

Kamehameha Schools is seeking a new operator to harvest a portion of 10,000 acres of forest on the Hamakua Coast and will issue a request for proposal today. Tribune-Herald.

Jury finds former Hawaii Island officer guilty of third-degree negligent homicide. Jody Buddemeyer was on trial accused of hitting and killing cyclist Jeffrey Surnow while driving a police car on Waikoloa Road in Kohala more than three years ago. Hawaii News Now.

HPA didn’t stop adult-student affair, report says. A female supervisor at the Hawaii Preparatory Academy boy’s dormitory on the Big Island was having sex with a male student and officials didn’t do anything to stop her even though they knew or should have known it was happening, according to an independent investigation commissioned by the school. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maalaea condo groups working on wastewater alternatives. Health Department citations issued for three condominium complexes. Maui News.

Solar project proposed for Ulupalakua Ranch land. Innergex plans Oct. 30 meeting for public comment. Maui News.

UH study: Maui more susceptible to erosion from rising sea levels. Erosion, wave run-up models show greater risk. Maui News.

The Maui County Department of Planning will close all of its offices on Friday, Oct. 19, 2018, to conduct staff training. Maui Now.

Kauai

Council Members Want To End Term Limits — On Themselves. The chief proponent of the ballot measure is Councilman Ross Kagawa. If it fails, he could be term-limited out in 2020. Civil Beat.

Two County Councilmen vying for the mayor’s seat for Kauai County are promising to tackle scarce affordable housing and traffic congestion, which are among the main concerns of isle residents. Star-Advertiser.

As communities across the mainland report disarray in recycling programs after China stopped accepting items in January, people on Kauai said they haven’t seen much of a change. Garden Island.

$200M for Ala Wai improvements, Abercrombie yes, Hanabusa no on constitutional convention, new landfill for Kauai, renewable energy takes a hit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai ©2018 All Hawaii News

Senate OKs over $200M for canal improvements. The U.S. Senate voted 99- 1 to pass legislation Wednesday that includes more than $212 million in federal funding to improve the Ala Wai Canal. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii could receive $200 million to improve Ala Wai Canal. The Ala Wai canal might get a major facelift -- $212 million worth. KITV.

Abercrombie, Hanabusa disagree on constitutional convention. Hawaii voters will decide in November’s general election whether to hold a convention to overhaul Hawaii’s current state constitution. Hawaii News Now.

Andria Tupola: ‘I’m Going To Take Over This Government’. The energetic Republican candidate for Hawaii governor won’t be abandoning the party or coming home crying anytime soon. Civil Beat.

1st Congressional Dist. nominees grilled, one relates to Kavanaugh claims. KITV.

Gun control advocates to lead key committees. State Sen. Karl Rhoads is expected to take over as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and state Rep. Chris Lee is expected to become head of the House Judiciary Committee in a leadership shuffle at the Legislature that could shape the debate on gun control in Hawaii in the years ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Pal Of Ige Or Not, Keith Hiraoka Is A Good Choice For Appeals Court. Some feel the governor was playing politics when he nominated his former campaign manager to a judgeship for the second time. Civil Beat.

No talks scheduled in hotel strike. Marriott hotel workers in Hawaii continued pounding drums and hollering chants as they entered day three of 24/7 picketing without an offer of new bargaining dates from Kyo-ya Hotels &Resorts. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Department’s Professional Standards detectives arrested an HPD lieutenant today for alleged tax violations.  Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu police lieutenant was arrested charged with multiple tax violations. Eric Yiu was charged on Oct. 8, 2018 with violating six counts of filing false and fraudulent tax returns for tax years 2011-2016. KHON2.

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin announced this week that an investigative team has been formed to look into an allegation that Councilman Trevor Ozawa verbally harassed another Councilman’s aide for supporting his political rival. Star-Advertiser.

City may have to repay $8M, HUD warns. A local U.S. housing official warned Mayor Kirk Caldwell Wednesday that the city could be forced to repay nearly $8 million for failing to find commercial tenants for the Chinatown Gateway Plaza building on Nuuanu and Hotel streets. Star-Advertiser.

Do the right thing’: Discovery of more remains at construction site spurs emotional testimony. Bone fragments have been temporarily reburied in plastic boxes. An archaeologist hired by Kawaiahao Church says 36 additional human remains have been found at the construction site for its multi-purpose center. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Public High Schools Redesigned for Innovation Future. The 4th annual Future Focus Conference on technologies and innovation is underway in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

New and improved ZipMobile set to launch on Zipper Lane duties next month. Gov. David Ige got behind the wheel of a brand new bright- yellow $1.95 million ZipMobile on Wednesday and immediately said he wanted to drive it. Star-Advertiser.

Community Cure: Waimanalo's Hawaiian Medicine Garden. Community medicine gardens may be just what the doctor ordered. Hawaii Public Radio.

How the Marriott strike has affected businesses in Waikiki properties. Disgruntled hotel guests and room cancellations may take a toll on the five Marriott properties that have workers on strike, as well as on the businesses that lease out spaces in these hotels. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A powerful trio: Energy officials update plans at chamber function. Hawaii Island’s renewable energy portfolio took a hit from a series of natural disasters this year, losing both geothermal and hydroelectric power sources. West Hawaii Today.

Helicopter noise panel to meet. A new committee that aims to address noise created by tour helicopters will meet for the first time today. Tribune-Herald.

Neil Gyotoku, Hawaii County’s administrator of the Office of Housing and Community Development, has rescinded his resignation in a letter to Mayor Harry Kim.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County is seeking applicants to fill vacancies on various boards and commissions. Members of most of these panels serve for staggered terms of five years on a voluntary basis. Tribune-Herald.

Puna health clinic teams up with Ka'u Hospital. Puna Community Medical Center in Pahoa became a division of Ka'u Hospital earlier this month in an effort to improve medical services in the area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

FEMA Public Assistance Applicants Invited to Maui Briefing. The Maui briefing will take place on Monday, Oct. 15, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Maui County Emergency Operations Center in the basement level of the County Building. Maui Now.

2 more large-scale solar projects for Maui in contract talks. Maui News.

Median sales prices for single-family homes and condominiums jumped in double-digit increases in September — up 16 percent to $754,248 for homes and up 18.2 percent to $501,000 for condos — both compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released last week by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Maui condo market is hot in 2018, as YTD sales, prices rise by double digits. Maui is having a banner year for condominium sales so far in 2018, with year-to-date sales rising by more than 20 percent and the median price increasing by more than 10 percent through the first three quarters, compared to the same time period last year. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Mayor accepts Final EIS for new landfill. Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Wednesday accepted the County of Kauai Department of Public Works Final Environmental Impact Statement for the new municipal solid waste landfill to be located on Maalo Road in Lihue. Garden Island.

A Rising Tide Of Abandoned Cars On The Garden Isle. Rusting hulks have become a common sight at otherwise scenic beach parks. The county is on pace to remove 1,300 vehicles this year. Star-Advertiser.

Muslim woman finally gets driver's license wearing hijab, big solar farms coming to state, cooling the Capitol with seawater, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Laycie Tobosa wearing hijab, ACLU courtesy photo

ACLU warns Hawaii officials after Muslim woman told to remove hijab for driver’s license photo. Laycie Tobosa spent months convincing drivers’ license officials in Hilo that she was not required to remove her traditional Muslim head scarf — or hijab — to pose for a photo for her new driver’s license, which she eventually received. Star-Advertiser.

ACLU: Woman denied full driver’s license after refusing to expose ears for photo. Big Island officials said it’s already changed its policy on the issue. Hawaii News Now.

Muslim Woman Claims License Renewal Discrimination. ACLU asks Hawaii County officials to respond with a plan for correcting “constitutional violations” after dispute over headscarf. Associated Press.

The ACLU of Hawaii sent letters to all four counties after a Muslim woman in Hilo struggled to get her driver's license, because she was wearing a hijab, or head scarf, to take her photo. KHON2.

ACLU objects to county’s treatment of Muslim woman. The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii wants Hawaii County to show it no longer follows policies regarding driver’s license pictures it says violates the First Amendment. Tribune-Herald.

A Muslim woman who says she endured an “18-week bureaucratic mess” to acquire a full driver’s license at the Hawaii County Department of Motor Vehicles has gotten the backing of the ACLU of Hawaii, prompting a response from County officials. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County granted driver’s license to Muslim woman. No financial damages or compensation are sought. KITV4.

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Hawaiian Electric plans record boost in renewable energy. The Hawaiian Electric Companies are in contract negotiations with developers for seven solar-plus-­storage projects that would result in the largest infusion of renewable energy in state history and would accelerate the clean energy transition for Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric selects 7 solar-plus-storage projects for a combined 260 MW of renewable energy. Honolulu-based utility Hawaiian Electric said on Tuesday it has selected seven solar-plus-storage projects for the largest infusion of renewable energy in state history. Pacific Business News.

Can social media significantly influence the upcoming General Election? Some digital media experts say what you see online most likely won't translate at the polls. KITV.

UH Faculty Weigh in on Property Tax Amendment. A heated debate is taking place around the state over whether or not we should amend the state constitution. One proposal would give the state legislature the power to tax investment property to fund public education. Hawaii Public Radio.

Unions representing sheet metal workers, flight attendants and public service employees took steps Tuesday to support the 2,700 Marriott hotel workers in Hawaii who were on their second day of a strike for higher wages and better benefits. Star-Advertiser.

Local 5 strike could impact many more hotels. Day two of picketing at major hotels in Waikiki and Maui, but striking Local 5 workers aren't the only ones without contracts. KITV.

Dangers of drugged driving focus of MADD conference. Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hawaii is turning its attention to the problem of drugged driving among youth from 16 to their 20s. Star-Advertiser.

What Hawaii Can Learn From Puerto Rico’s Devastation. The U.S. territory still hasn’t recovered from Maria. Hawaii officials hope better coordination and a more resilient electric grid will help avoid a similar fate. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian Convention to wrap up in Waikiki Wednesday. The Native Hawaiian Convention in Waikiki held a forum for candidates for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs' board of trustees Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.


Oahu

Has Kakaako Gotten Too Fancy Even For IBM? The company will soon depart its landmark namesake building to make way for developer offices and model condos. Civil Beat.

Solar permits issued on Oahu fell 31%. Solar permits issued on Oahu plunged 31 percent in September to leave the nine-month total even with the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

$53 Million needed for repairs at Hawaii Convention Center. Hawaii Convention Center is facing up to $53 million in repairs, and state legislators may help out. KITV4.

Hawaii finalizes deal to use chilled seawater to cool state office buildings in Honolulu. The state of Hawaii has finalized an agreement with Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning to cool seven state office buildings and the state Capital through the use of chilled ocean water starting in 2021. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Salary Commission considers, but holds off voting, on latest round of increases. Much smaller raises are being considered for top county officials next year, following last year’s eye-popping double-digit hikes. West Hawaii Today.

No charges in stolen police drug case; deputy chief calls investigation ‘thorough’. West Hawaii Today.

Utility-scale solar farms could be coming to Hawaii Island. Hawaiian Electric announced Tuesday that it selected companies to build two solar projects on the island that would have a combined capacity of 60 megawatts. Tribune-Herald.

His farm is buried under lava, but he can’t find relief from payments on his state agricultural loan. ‘The promises from the politicians don’t seem to be materializing.’ Hawaii News Now.

Pahoa merchants struggle to make ends meet following lava disaster. Nearly two months after the apparent pause in volcanic activity in lower Puna, Pahoa businesses are struggling to stay afloat. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs will host orientation sessions on Maui, Molokai and Lanai over the next two weeks for its new $500,000 pilot grants program, which will offer smaller, one-year funding awards for projects that benefit the Native Hawaiian community. Maui Now.

Second Circuit Chief Judge Joseph Cardoza was recognized as the 2018 Jurist of the Year at a recent state Judiciary awards ceremony. Maui News.

The Kaanapali Beach Hotel on Maui was named the No. 1 Top Hotel in Hawaii by readers of Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 31st annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Department of Public Works and Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. will hold an open house and presentation on the Lihue Town Core Revitalization project on Thursday, Oct. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Wilcox Elementary School Cafeteria. Garden Island.

There was a luau Monday night and the delegation from Candon City spent time with Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., Tuesday following the signing of the Friendship City Relationship agreement. Garden Island.