Grim forecast for coral reefs, congressional ethics office calls for Kahele investigation, attorney general seeks to stop auction of Queen Liliuokalani articles, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii coral reef ©2022 All Hawaii News

Half of all coral reefs could face permanent effects of climate change. Half of the world’s coral reefs could no longer be suitable for marine life by 2035. That’s according to the latest University of Hawaiʻi research looking into the worst-case scenarios of climate change on reef ecosystems. Hawaii Public Radio.Kauai Now.

Congressional Ethics Watchdog Calls For Ethics Investigation Into Kahele. No details were released about the allegations the Hawaii congressman might be facing, but his proxy voting record and ties to Hawaiian Airlines have drawn scrutiny. The Office of Congressional Ethics, the independent watchdog charged with investigating allegations of misconduct against House members and their staff, has called for an official inquiry into U.S. Rep. Kai Kahele. Civil Beat.

Governor Candidates On The Environment: Sharp Contrasts And A Little Overlap. Republican Duke Aiona emphasizes lower energy costs, while Democrat Josh Green stresses renewable and sustainable sources. Civil Beat.

Jill Tokuda Looks Like A Shoo-In For Congress. What Would She Do? The question is whether the former state senator, a Democrat, can be effective, especially as a first-term lawmaker in a House that’s expected to be in GOP control. Civil Beat.

State moves to block auction of items related to overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani. The state Department of the Attorney General has put the British auction house Bonhams on notice. At issue are items dating back to the Hawaiian monarchy overthrow that the state maintains belong to Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Hawaii’s Language Access Office Is Having Trouble ‘Fulfilling Its Mission’ The state auditor says OLA “remains a partially formed organization” some 16 years after its establishment. Advocates say that’s keeping non-English speakers from getting much-needed services. Civil Beat.

Menstrual product distribution still uneven in Hawaii schools. Full statewide implementation of the “menstrual equity” state legislation is turning out to be a more complex and delicate undertaking than even some lawmakers and education officials expected. Star-Advertiser.

GET medical exemption sought: Group says move would make state ‘a more attractive place for doctors’. In an effort to make health care more affordable and alleviate the state’s physician shortage, Grassroot Institute of Hawaii launched a petition urging the Hawaii Legislature to exempt medical services from the state’s general excise tax, or GET. Tribune-Herald.

As RSV cases rise, more people are hospitalized compared to COVID surges. Cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus — also known as RSV — are increasing in Hawaiʻi and 32 other states. There are other respiratory illnesses spreading as well, including rhinovirus and coronavirus. Hawaii Public Radio.

A deficit of mental health: Pandemic isn’t solely to blame, experts say; politics also a factor. Some  health care providers in Hawaii think the reason for the increase isn’t just the pandemic, citing a variety of symptoms such as stress, political conflict, work staffing shortages, insurance issues and because there’s less of a stigma for those who seek mental health services. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Robberies, weapon crimes rise on Oahu as other major categories fall. Weapon violations, robberies and assaults are on the rise in Honolulu while other major crime categories have fallen off, compared with 2021, according to Hono­lulu police statistics obtained by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Star-Advertiser.

Power struggle festers over Aloha Stadium redevelopment. Mike McCartney, director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, claims that his agency is now in charge of redeveloping Aloha Stadium following more than a decade of work by the Stadium Authority, private consultants, state lawmakers and the state Department of Accounting and General Services. Star-Advertiser.

State wants to drop permit rules for employees of Waikiki ocean activity companies. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is looking to repeal rules that require surf instructors, outrigger canoe captains and other individuals who operate in Waikiki waters to obtain a state permit certifying they have the necessary skills and training, citing liability concerns and lack of “resources or expertise to continue conducting the testing and approval process.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu voters to decide how to use city land conservation fund. Proposed City Charter amendment No. 3 on the general election ballot asks if 5% of the fund should be expended to operate and maintain those acquired lands. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Ballot Proposal Would Make City Council Services Office A Permanent Agency. The office that performs many legislative duties for the council, including researching and drafting bills and resolutions, may finally get equal status with other agencies. Civil Beat.

Lawyer For Mitsunaga Firm Pleads Not Guilty To Bribing Kaneshiro. A lawyer for an engineering firm whose CEO is accused of bribing Honolulu’s prosecuting attorney pleaded not guilty on Friday to participating in the alleged scheme. Civil Beat.

Navy officials said repairs to a broken 36-inch water main at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam are still at least a week out. Iroquois Point Elementary to remain closed as repairs continue to military water system. Main breaks to the Navy’s water system Friday has left about 90,000 customers under a boil water advisory. Some customers have low water pressure while others have no water at all. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Plan to house the homeless living outside Waianae Boat Harbor. The Pu'uhonua O Wai'anae Farm Village is continuing their fight to end homelessness on Oahu. Village leaders held a groundbreaking ceremony on a project for the dozens of houseless people who called the Waianae Boat Harbor home for years. They will rehome approximately 250 people living in tents – many who are kupuna, and working families with children. KITV4.

Homelessness on public recreation land on Oʻahu an ongoing problem with few solutions. Officials with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources say there’s a long list of challenges and few solutions when it comes to homeless individuals who have taken up residence at O‘ahu’s Sand Island State Recreation Area. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Garden Island.

LGBTQ+ tourism is thriving in Hawaii. The National Gay Flag Football League’s Gay Bowl XXII Hawaii 2022 Flag Football Tournament, the largest LGBTQ+ event ever held in Honolulu, helped this year’s Honolulu Pride parade surpass the 2019 event, which was the state’s largest parade that year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi Civil Defense Issues Message On Mauna Loa Activity. The Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense said it is closely monitoring the situation, in coordination with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Big Island Video News. KITV4.

Estate, family seek answers in killing of Boy Scout. Court documents filed on behalf of the estate of the 11-year-old Boy Scout who was killed Aug. 28 when a firearm accidentally was discharged said the gun was an “AK-47 semi-automatic assault rifle.” Tribune-Herald.

Ready, set, vote! Ballots are expected to be mailed Wednesday and arrive in Big Island mailboxes shortly after that as the nation counts down to the Nov. 8 general election. West Hawaii Today.
https://www.westhawaiitoday.com/2022/10/15/hawaii-news/ready-set-vote/

‘The Most Important Decision’: Hawaii Police Commission Ponders Criteria For New Chief. With the hiring process set to begin Oct. 24, the police union is urging the commission to use the opportunity to pursue more ambitious goals. Civil Beat.

Bill would increase solar water heater tax credit. A bill increasing the tax credit for eligible homeowners who install a solar water heater will be heard Tuesday by the County Council Finance Committee. Bill 227 would increase the tax credit from $300 to $400 for owners of single-family dwellings, ohanas, farm dwellings and duplexes. West Hawaii Today.

Hāpuna Beach Park And Cabins Closed. A major water break has been reported at Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, and the park & cabin area are closed. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Sparks fly in contentious debate as Maui mayoral candidates vie for votes. In a debate Saturday night organized by Akaku Maui Community Media, incumbent Mayor Mike Victorino defended his record while retired Judge Richard Bissen accused Victorino of being a passive mayor. Hawaii News Now.

Bissen gets Carpenter’s Union endorsement; Victorino endorsed by HSTA; Kama Talk Story. Campaign updates from Maui County. Maui Now.

County to launch energy cost-savings program. Project to install more efficient lighting, sinks and other equipment. Maui County is embarking on a multimillion-dollar project with an international company in hopes of realizing $73 million in energy and water conservation cost during the first phase. Maui News. Hawaii News Now.

Dockless vehicles and parking ambassador program to be discussed in committee. The Maui Council’s Infrastructure and Transportation Committee on Monday will discuss a bill prohibiting a commercial system of short-term rentals of dockless vehicles, and a separate bill authorizing the implementation of a parking ambassador program.  Maui Now.

Pulelehua developer to prioritize affordable units in first phase of West Maui project. Mayor Michael Victorino announced today that the Maui County Council is in receipt of Bill 152, that will help to subsidize shovel-ready development of 100 affordable units in Pulelehua, planned for West Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i mayoral candidates answer questions on drug treatment center, housing, evictions. The Garden Island spoke to mayoral candidates Derek Kawakami and Michael Roven Poai last week on some of the major issues facing the county. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i council candidates make their closing statements. The Garden Island asked the 14 County Council candidates to submit closing statements ahead of the mailing of ballots on Oct. 19. Twelve responded. Garden Island.

What are the Kaua‘i county ballot proposals? Along with picking their elected representatives, voters will have the chance to decide on the fate of four ballot proposals this election season. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Hawaiian sea cucumbers being cultivated for export and fishpond restoration on Kauaʻi. Kaua‘i Sea Farm, a commercial aquaculture business at the ancient Nomilo fishpond in Kalāheo. has partnered with the O‘ahu nonprofit Pacific American Foundation to cultivate loli as a high-value export product. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Hawaii to train more nurses, judge halts Oahu's 90-day vacation rental limit, ballots coming to mailboxes soon, more news from all the Hawaian Islands

Graduating nurses PC:University of Hawaii - Manoa

University of Hawaii nursing programs receive $1.75 million boost. Gov. David Ige said Thursday he is allocating $1.75 million to hire instructors for the University of Hawaii’s nursing schools in an attempt to fill 1,000 nursing vacancies in the state. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Rule changes for Hawaii oceanfront property owners questioned. Proposed state rules governing emergency permits for sandbags and so-called burrito systems installed by property owners to protect their homes and hotels are getting a mixed reception, with some environmental law attorneys saying the changes would do little to safeguard shorelines threatened by mounds of heavy sandbags and tarps. Star-Advertiser.

Gubernatorial candidates Duke Aiona and Josh Green want to tame overtourism, but they don’t agree on how to do it. While both candidates support user fees for access to popular sites, Green goes further with a $50 fee on every visitor, exempting only toddlers and residents. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii sees spike in child respiratory illnesses. Hawaii health officials are contending with a spike in the count of children in the islands contracting respiratory illness not related to COVID-19, following a nationwide trend. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Judge halts Honolulu’s 90-day short-term rental law. A U.S. District Court judge has granted a preliminary injunction ordering the city not to enforce the provisions in a new Oahu law that pertains to increasing the minimum allowable stay for Oahu rentals outside of resort districts to 90 days from 30 days. Star-Advertiser.

City gears up to mail out ballots for general election. The city said mailout on Oahu begins next Monday and ballot drop boxes will open the following day. Hawaii News Now.

The Race To Represent Mililani In The House Pits A Republican Incumbent Against A Democrat. State Rep. Lauren Cheape Matsumoto and former Rep. Marilyn Lee are vying to represent the central Oahu district of Mililani in the House, setting up a race between one of the Legislature’s few current Republican members and the Democrat who served for years before her. Civil Beat.

State board OKs Moiliili tower. A state board has endorsed a developer’s plan to build a 1,005-unit residential tower in Moiliili mainly for households with moderate and high-moderate incomes. Star-Advertiser.

Kuhio Avenue likely to see bus-only lanes installed. The City is looking at Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki as the next location to introduce bus-only lanes, officials said it will mean a quicker commute for bus riders, but some who live and work in the area question the proposal. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Updated fire code proposed. A revamp of the county fire code is in the works, with Puna Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz proposing updates in both the requirements and permit fees to prepare the county for compliance with the latest state requirements. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiʻi County to begin updating zoning codes. Hawaiʻi County is modernizing its zoning and subdivision codes and beginning a round of community engagement event. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hu Honua Says It Can’t Afford To Ride ‘Merry-Go-Round’ Any Longer. The embattled bioenergy plant on Hawaii island’s windward side is back before the state Supreme Court asking for relief. Attorneys for the proposed Hu Honua tree-burning plant on the Big Island have filed their opening brief in their appeal of state utility regulator’s denial of a power purchase agreement that would have allowed the plant to fire up. Civil Beat.

More firebreaks sought to protect palila habitat on Maunakea. A proposed project by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources would expand firebreaks on Maunakea in order to protect an endangered bird. Tribune-Herald.

Prices to go up for Merrie Monarch tickets. Tickets for the 60th Annual Merrie Monarch Festival will go on sale Dec. 1. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

This Is How The Candidates For Maui Mayor Want To Tackle The Housing Crisis. The Maui mayoral race has been defined by candidates’ sweeping promises to boost the availability of housing that local residents can afford and stop the exodus of longtime families who’ve been priced out. Civil Beat.

Less commercial, more housing in project plans. Downtown Kihei project to have 223 affordable rentals in response to community requests. Maui News.

Pay to park: Maui officials will discuss bill to rollout program. Maui’s paid parking system is shaping up to being next year. The Maui County Council is taking steps to finalize the rollout. KHON2.

Maui welcomes 6 hybrid electric buses. The County of Maui Department of Transportation's buses are powered by diesel fuel and a rooftop battery system. The battery charges from the energy produced when braking and coasting. Hawaii Public Radio.

Survey teams conduct mosquito field studies on Maui in an effort to control avian malaria. Several times each week, staff from the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project check mosquito traps in the rural residential areas along Maui’s north shore. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai County to hand out thousands of free COVID home test kits. The county, in partnership with the state Health Department, is offering about 6,000 COVID tests kits on a first-come, first-served basis, starting Wednesday. There will be a limit of five tests per individual or household. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

State scrambles to contain little fire ant infestation on Kauai covering at least 13 acres. Invasive species experts on Kauai are working to get a handle on an emerging threat as an infestation of little fire ants has been found at the Wailua River State Park. Hawaii News Now.

Students' test scores rising, union boss heads to trial, 65 earthquakes on Mauna Loa in 24 hours, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Academic proficiency in Hawaii’s public schools improves but lags pre-pandemic levels. Hawaii’s public school students are starting to climb out of the academic slump caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with last year’s return to full in-person learning helping to push up test scores and other measures, according to the annual Strive HI report released Wednesday by the state Department of Education.  Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Conservative Super PAC Jumps In To Hawaii Governors Race. You may have seen some unsolicited text messages recently that start something like this: “Are you done with corrupt politicians like Josh Green?” The text messages and the website they link to are part of a campaign by a new super PAC called Hawaii Conservatives, created by first-time GOP candidate Tim Dalhouse and longtime conservative strategist Joel Borgquist, who has worked on campaigns in Virginia and Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Candidates for governor go head-to-head on controversial issues of abortion, gun control. The candidates for governor are accusing each other of inciting fear and being misinformed on heated issues. As the front-runner, Democrat Josh Green has gotten aggressive on the abortion issue by attacking Republican Duke Aiona, who calls himself pro-life from conception to death, but says he respects the law giving a woman a right to choose. Hawaii News Now.

After years of delays, former union leader accused of misusing funds to head to trial. Three years after his arrest, a former union leader accused of corruption will finally get his day in court this week. The feds have charged former IBEW Local 1260 leader Brian Ahakuelo and his relatives with 70 counts of fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy, money laundering and embezzlement for misusing on union funds to pay for lavish salaries and perks. He’s also accused of rigging union votes to increase dues to pay for those salaries and benefits. Hawaii News Now.

Head of Hawaii’s biggest public workers union blames bureaucracy for hiring shortages. The Executive Director of the Hawaii Government Employees Association, Randy Perreira, said city and state human resources systems need to be overhauled and modernized. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii to host start of global economic conference. The East-West Center in Manoa will host the informal senior officials meeting in December to kick off the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference hosted by the U.S., according to an official with the U.S. Department of State. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents 5 and over urged to get updated COVID-19 booster. The Hawaii Department of Health recommends the COVID-19 bivalent boosters for everyone age 5 and older in the state. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Hawaii health officials report 1,047 new COVID-19 infections, 5 coronavirus-related deaths. The state’s average positivity rate declined to 5.6% compared with 6.3% reported the previous week, and back to about where it was on Sept 28. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City wants to redirect funds from traffic fines. The Honolulu City Council wants to change where money from traffic fines ends up. The hope is to give more of it to county law enforcement. Currently, money from traffic fines goes to the state. KHON2.

Prep work for rail accelerates along Nimitz Highway. While businesses along Dillingham Boulevard brace for the start of utility relocation work, the process has already begun on the last leg of the project from Iwilei to Cooke Street. Hawaii News Now.

Rail ‘hammerhead’ crack reports overdue, incomplete. Two highly anticipated reports on the extent of hairline cracks in the city rail system’s overhead “hammerhead” supports — and what should be done about them — were due Sept. 30 but still are not complete after a series of extensions. Star-Advertiser.

Health department prepares as Navy set to drain Red Hill fuel lines. The Navy is preparing to “unpack” or drain the fuel lines at its Red Hill bulk fuel storage facility. It’s the first step in permanently draining the massive underground installation. Hawaii Public Radio.

A group of nonprofit agencies at the Kawailoa Youth and Family Wellness Center will be getting a hefty infusion of cash over the next eight years. The program, managed by Partners in Development, is designed to end youth incarceration, was one of five big winners of grant money from the Kellogg Foundation’s global challenge for racial equality. Hawaii News Now.

DOH cites developer for storm water runoff at unpermitted construction site in Kailua. The state Department of Health has cited an Arizona-based developer for storm water runoff and lack of erosion control measures at an unpermitted construction site in Kailua. DOH said Wednesday it issued a notice of violation and order with a $14,000 penalty to Arcus Secured Loan Fund III LLC for failing to obtain a water pollution permit and discharging storm water runoff from the site on Old Kalanianaole Road. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Board: Nonresponsiveness is not an ethics violation. A non-response from government officials to emails and telephone calls isn’t necessarily a violation of the ethics code, the county Board of Ethics said Wednesday in denying a resident’s call to penalize 14 top officials for ignoring his warnings about what he saw as the danger of face masks and vaccines during the coronavirus pandemic. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiʻi County received 44 applications for police chief. The Hawaiʻi County Police Commission has directed the county’s Human Resources Department to not release the identities of the applicants during this phase in the search process. Big Island Now.

‘Dredge everything’: Preferred plan is to remove almost the entire beach blocking Pohoiki Boat Ramp. The black sand beach at Pohoiki will be almost entirely removed in order to reopen the Pohoiki Boat Ramp, engineers confirmed Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

65 earthquakes at Mauna Loa in the past 24 hours. Earthquake activity continues to increase at Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano. Mauna Loa is not erupting, and experts said an eruption is not imminent. KHON2.

Staffing crisis forces hospital’s cancer center to turn away new patients. Kona Community Hospital has temporarily stopped accepting new patients in its medical oncology and chemotherapy infusion clinics, forcing those needing care to travel to Waimea, Hilo or Honolulu for treatment. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Voters To Decide On Removal Of $1,000 Cap For Civil Fines. The proposed charter amendment would give the County Council more flexibility to set violation penalties by ordinance. Civil Beat.

Update on West Maui Hospital to be presented in Council committee on Monday. The Maui County Council’s Human Concerns & Parks Committee will host a discussion Monday, Oct. 17, 2022 on the current status of the West Maui Hospital and Medical Center. Maui Now.

Kauai

Search ends for missing swimmer. Jaren Asalele, 19, of American Samoa, was last seen on Saturday afternoon, Oct. 8, swimming at Kalihiwai Beach on the North Shore when he became distressed. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Little fire ants detected at Wailua River State Park. A new population of little fire ants in Wailua River State Park has been confirmed, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources said in a statement on Wednesday. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Abortion travelers protected in Ige executive order, Russian hackers target Hawaii airport websites, state to add recycled plastic to asphalt, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige’s executive order adds abortion protections. Out-of-state residents who obtain abortions in Hawaii, as well as anyone who assists them, are provided with greater protections from civil and criminal penalties that their home states may try to impose under an executive order issued by Gov. David Ige on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Associated Press. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Whoever Wins, Hawaii’s Gubernatorial Candidates Offer A New Style Of Communication. Outgoing Gov. David Ige sometimes stumbled with his messaging, leading to criticism over his handling of the pandemic and the Legislature. His reputation as a a quiet problem solver who does not crave the spotlight came to the fore amid the coronavirus pandemic, leading to complaints about conflicting messages and miscommunications as his administration struggled to control the situation. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard officially no longer a Democrat. Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard — who seemingly long ago was considered a rising, progressive political star — burned her final bridge with Democrats in Hawaii and around the country by announcing she was leaving the party and asking other Democrats to join her. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Video News. KHON2. KITV4.

Pro-Russia hackers target Hawaii airport websites, state officials say. The Hawaii Office of Homeland Security and the Office of Enterprise Technology Services are responding to a hacking incident on the websites of Hawaii airports that is “possibly linked to similar incidents across the country” carried out by the Russia-based hacker group Killnet, officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Maui Now. KHON2.

State receives over $305M to improve transportation infrastructure. Officials said the money will give transportation leaders the flexibility to determine how to allocate funds to improve transportation infrastructure. The funds will go towards rebuilding roads, bridges and tunnels, tackling carbon emission reduction, as well as other safety improvements. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Department of Transportation testing asphalt mixes designed to improve pavement, environment. The Hawaii Department of Transportation began paving a road in Ewa Beach with a mix of plastic and asphalt Tuesday in a test that, if successful, could lead to more sustainable roadways and less trash in the islands. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Researchers call for deeper look into the harmful effects of sunscreen. UH Manoa researchers said coral reefs around the world are threatened by five stressors including sea surface temperature, ocean acidification, tropical storms, land use and human population. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Voting explainer: Honolulu charter amendment ballot questions. Voters on Oʻahu will consider four charter amendment proposals about how city money and revenues are spent, as well as how to position the city for better decision-making in the future. Hawaii Public Radio.

Aiona and Green differ on 2 major unfinished projects: Aloha Stadium and Honolulu rail. Gov. David Ige has thrown the stadium redevelopment a curve by turning against the idea of having a partnership with private developers of an adjoining entertainment district. But the men out to replace him have other ideas. Hawaii News Now.

Public opening nears for Ewa Beach lagoon, surfing wave pool. A 52-acre recreational lagoon and shoreside commercial development featuring a surfing wave pool and restaurants in Ewa Beach is slated to open for initial public use early next year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

3 Hawaiian Electric workers suffer burns while working on underground power line. Three Hawaiian Electric Co. employees suffered first- and second-degree burns while working on an underground power line near Pensacola Street Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

The Miske Files: Accused Murderer, Crime Boss And … Used Car Dealer? Alleged kingpin Michael Miske owned a business that bought used cars at auction, providing income, a way to launder drug money and rewards for criminal associates, prosecutors say. Civil Beat.

Honolulu to expand free COVID testing to all Hawaii residents at airport lab. Starting this Saturday, all Hawaii residents — not just Oahu residents with a valid ID — will be able to receive a free PCR or rapid antigen test at the City’s Mobile Lab. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

EIS for aquarium fish collecting approved. The agency charged with protecting the state’s natural resources has approved an environmental impact statement allowing the harvesting of tropical fish for the aquarium industry despite ongoing litigation over the issue. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Beach parks to close for archeological preservation, ADA work. Laaloa Beach Park and Magic Sands Beach Park will close starting Oct. 31 for up to eight months for an array of improvements. West Hawaii Today.

Work On Waikōloa Intersection Safety Improvements Begins October 17. Motorists can expect delays, one lane traffic, and flaggers will be directing traffic, officials say. Work is set to take place from October to December 2022. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

KCCF seeks cupping competition entries. Submissions for the 2022 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival Cupping Competition Coffee are due by 4 p.m. Oct. 31. All coffee entered into the competition must be 100% Kona coffee grown in the district of Kona. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii lacked rain in September. The last month of the dry season was emphatically so for the windward Big Island, and the National Weather Service’s only official rain gauge to measure rainfall in double-digits in September was in Kona’s coffee belt, which experiences its rainy season in the summer. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Voters To Decide On A Measure To Boost Access To Government Records. Fees and charges have in the past priced citizens out of accessing their government’s records. One of the measures that will be on the ballot for the Nov. 8 election asks if the County Charter — the document that serves as Maui County’s constitution — should be changed to make it so county employees must try to help citizens find the best way to ask for government records and keep any fees for producing those documents as low as possible. Civil Beat.

Long-debated bill to protect birds from lighting passes. Measure restricts certain outdoor lighting to keep wildlife from getting disoriented. Surviving a late request to be sent back to a Maui County Council committee for a second time, an outdoor lighting bill that was hotly debated for months passed second and final reading on Monday. Maui News.

Input sought for management of Kamehamenui Forest Reserve on Maui. The Trust for Public Land purchased 3,433 acres of property in upland Kula from the Shizuka Asakawa Revocable Trust in July 2020 and conveyed the property to the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife in 2020. Now the department is developing a management plan and is inviting the public to attend a public scoping meeting to gather input and ideas, and address any questions or concerns. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Maui council approves resolution to acquire 45 acres of A&B lands. Mayor Michael Victorino expressed appreciation to the Maui County Council for approving resolutions accepting the dedication of 45 acres of land from A&B Properties for parks and open space.  The acquisition was finalized at the councilʻs meeting that adjourned on Monday. Maui Now.

Water system planned for future Waikapu homestead community. Pu‘unani Homestead Subdivision would eventually have 161 residential lots. Maui News.

Kauai

Coco Palms ownership open to sale. The current owners of Coco Palms said Tuesday that they are willing to entertain offers to purchase the site of the dilapidated hotel. Garden Island.

Hawaii experts not worried about North Korea missiles, Ellison subsidizes Lanai gas, Gabbard leaving Democratic Party, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Experts say they're not worried about Nuclear Attack coming from North Korea right now. With five missile tests in 10 days, North Korea's actions have people concerned and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency keeping an eye on that part of the world. Two experts tell KITV4 they're not worried about a nuclear hit on Hawaii, because they don't believe North Korea has the technology to make an accurate hit on the island.  KITV4.

Hawaii’s hot tourism summer gives way to cooler fall. End-of-summer vacationers, mostly from the U.S., nearly filled Hawaii hotel rooms to pre-pandemic levels in August and drove the average daily room rate to almost $383 per night. Star-Advertiser.

Pace of traffic deaths eclipsing 2021. There were 90 traffic fatalities reported statewide in roughly the first nine months of this year, surpassing 66 from the same time frame in 2021, according to the state Department of Transportation’s preliminary statistics. Star-Advertiser.

Fighting For Workers Or Fleecing Them? An Ousted Honolulu Union Boss Faces His Reckoning. The trial of Brian Ahakuelo, accused of leading a conspiracy to line his pockets while head of IBEW Local 1260, begins Thursday. Civil Beat.

In race for governor, candidates play up differences on climate change, housing plans. In the race for governor, Josh Green is criticizing Duke Aiona for lacking substantial policies on climate change, but Aiona says Green’s clean energy plans sound just like the Lingle-Aiona administration. Hawaii News Now.

Former presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard says she’s leaving Democratic Party. Tulsi Gabbard, a former Hawaii U.S. representative and one-time presidential candidate, announced that she’s no longer a Democrat on social media on Monday. In her video statement, she called the leaders of the party an “elitist cabal of warmongers driven by cowardly wokeness.” Hawaii News Now.

Ballot tracking service available for Hawaiʻi voters. As the 2022 General Election ballots are prepared for mailing, election officials want to remind voters that they can sign up to receive ballot tracking alerts at elections.hawaii.gov. Voters can sign up to receive text, email, or voice alerts letting them know where their ballot is in the voting process. Maui Now. Garden Island.

Hawaii sees dramatic increase in fentanyl-related overdoses reported in September. Department of Health data shows fentanyl-related overdoses are happening on every major island in the state. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kalihi rail construction to start ahead of schedule. The relocation of utilities along Dillingham Boulevard for the rail project should be underway ahead of schedule at the end of this year, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige meets with Stadium Authority ahead of announcing his new direction for project. Gov. David Ige has yet to reveal his “different direction” to rebuild Aloha Stadium more than three weeks after scrapping the previous plan, but his point person on the project says “it’s a stretch” to expect that private development will help defray maintenance costs of a new facility. Star-Advertiser.

Lack Of Shelter Space Poses A Challenge For Oahu’s Newest Homeless Program. As a city program that helps homeless people approaches its one-year mark, it has faced obstacles including a lack of shelter space and psychiatrists. But the Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement program has taken 30 people off the streets and that’s a successful start, its director says. Civil Beat.

Kuilei Place high-rise in Moiliili would rival Oahu’s tallest buildings. A local developer is seeking to build a $619 million residential tower complex in Moiliili where major exemptions to building height and density limits will be needed to deliver the project with 1,005 predominantly moderate-price condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

City joins state in enforcement of illegal concrete pour at North Shore beachfront property. On a coastline already marred by illegal erosion barriers — the concrete and rebar reinforcement of this house owned by Josh Van Emmerik created a new level of outrage for Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. Hawaii News Now.

Erosion at popular east Oahu beach marks emotional turning point for some residents. After decades of erosion, the city is trimming and removing trees at one of the nation’s top ranked beaches. Last week, two trees fell into the waters of Kailua Beach. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kimball named chairwoman, Inaba vice chairman of incoming County Council. Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball has been selected chairwoman and North Kona Councilman Holeka Inaba vice chairman of the new County Council that will take office in December. West Hawaii Today.

Saddle Road EIS terminated. The long-sought Daniel K. Inouye Highway extension in West Hawaii has hit another roadblock. Environmental studies, which are required for the project that would bring the cross-island route to Queen Kaahumanu Highway, have officially been terminated — the latest blow to the project in the works since 1999. West Hawaii Today.

State seeks to improve access to Hilo Harbor. The state Department of Transportation Harbors Division is seeking to acquire almost 10 acres of privately owned land on Kalanianaole Street near the entrance to the Port of Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Former resident physician accuses Hilo Medical Center of breastfeeding discrimination. A former resident physician at a Hawaiʻi Island hospital is suing the institution for pregnancy-related workplace discrimination. Hawaii Public Radio.

Wanted: Ant samples from residents’ yards. Residents are urged to be on the lookout for little fire ants during what the state Department of Land and Natural Resources has called “Stop the Ant Month.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Contentious bill to limit outdoor lighting on Maui clears final council reading. The ordinance was passed due to concerns that bright, onshore lighting confuses seabirds and endangered sea turtles. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Land Use Commission approves public-private partnership in Waikapū, Maui. The approval allows Maui County to assume the developer’s required contribution toward a new Central Maui wastewater treatment plant, Waiʻale Road extension and improvements in exchange for 213 additional workforce units in the planned Waikapū Country Town community. Maui Now.

Maui food voucher program extended through December. The food vouchers from Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) were supposed to end in September. But the program will continue while funds remain. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui News.

Why Lanai Gas Prices Plunged Overnight From Hawaii’s Most Expensive To The Cheapest. Tech magnate Larry Ellison, who owns 98% of the island, bought Lanai’s only gas station and started subsidizing fuel prices on April 1. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Mayor Signs Bill To Increase Benefits to Farmers. Kauaʻi County Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed a bill last month that updates the county’s Agricultural Dedication program to provide increased benefits to farmers and lessen the burdensome red tape.  Kauai Now.

Celebrating Kaua‘i National Wildlife Refuges. Friends of Kaua‘i Wildlife Refuges Executive Director Thomas Daubert announced Saturday that National Wildlife Refuge Week starts Tuesday and continues through Sunday at various North Shore locations. Garden Island.

Outdoor dining coming to Honolulu, ethics reform slips off candidates' radar, teaching telescope could open to the public, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki sidewalk scene ©2022 All Hawaii News

Honolulu Hale poised to issue outdoor dining permits. Under the two-year pilot program, six-month permits are available for establishments that are on the ground floor connecting to city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Why Ethics Reform Hasn’t Been A Bigger Issue In The Hawaii Governor’s Race. You might think the stunning parade of criminal wrongdoing in state, city and county government in recent years would inspire a robust slate of reform proposals. But that hasn’t happened in the campaign for governor so far. Civil Beat.

Staffing shortage cited as latest delay in fully opening Hawaii’s new psychiatric hospital. State health officials say that a staffing shortage at the Hawaii State Hospital is preventing the opening of the last of six units at its new 144-bed psychiatric facility, which was completed last year, leaving 16% of beds empty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s East-West Center ‘Is Undergoing A Renaissance’ With More Eyes On Pacific Affairs.The growing threats from climate change and geopolitical tensions with China are underscoring EWC's role in strengthening U.S.-Pacific relationships.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

Is Honolulu Council Chair Tommy Waters ‘Unbeatable’? Waters promises to continue his focus on providing more affordable housing on Oahu. But homelessness has worsened in his district. Civil Beat.

City urges more park activities to curb vandalism. Over the past six years, the cost of vandalism to city parks has surged, dipped slightly and is on the rise again. Star-Advertiser.

Shortened rail route means more buses needed for Kakaako station. Kakaako’s relatively sleepy Halekauwila Street between South and Keawe streets will transform into a bustling bus and rail transit hub when the Civic Center rail station opens there in less than two years. Star-Advertiser.

Makaha bridges’ makeover criticized by some residents. The state Department of Transportation in 2021 began replacing two bridges near Makaha Beach that the state considers most urgently in need of repair, but residents now are worried that a contractor’s recent installation of small rock dams in the stream beds below both bridges could cause flooding to neighborhoods or damage to the reef. Star-Advertiser.

New affordable housing project to serve large families. The Honolulu City Council has granted approval for Kealahou West Oahu to run a new affordable housing project for those earning 60% of the annual median income on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

UH-Hilo observatory could be available to the general public. At an open house Wednesday about the proposed development of an educational observatory at the midlevel facility on Maunakea, Rene Pierre Martin, director of the University of Hawaii at Hilo Educational Observatory, said he hopes the telescope will be usable by people ranging from public school teachers to amateur astronomers, in addition to astronomy students at UH. Tribune-Herald.

Roth touts joint Waipi‘o effort: Says long-term solution should come from both community, county. Hundreds braved a rainy Wednesday night to attend a meeting at Honokaa Gym about Waipi‘o Valley Road with Mayor Mitch Roth, Public Works Director Steve Pause and Heather Kimball, District 1 councilwoman. Tribune-Herald.

Closures Planned For Laʻaloa, Magic Sands Beach Parks.Beginning on Monday, October 31, the two popular Kona beach parks will be temporarily closed for construction that could take up to 8 months. Big Island Video News.

Housing buyout program enables victims of 2018 Kilauea eruption to get on with their lives. The buyout program allows owners of impacted primary or secondary homes to receive a payout based on assessed land values before the eruption, up to $230,000. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor says 2-day running of Ironman World Championship in 2023 not set in stone, though race officials are moving forward. Though Roth said a two-day running hasn’t been finalized, Ironman officials said Sunday that the Florida-based company is already planning — and awarding slots — for races on Thursday, Oct. 12, and Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

In wake of primary, Victorino emerges as top fundraiser. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino is leading in campaign fundraising following the primary election in August with more than $100,000 raised, though he spent much less than his challenger, Richard Bissen. Maui News.

Maui journalists to question mayoral candidates in live debate. Maui County mayoral candidates Richard Bissen and Michael Victorino will answer questions from a panel of Maui reporters on Oct. 15 during a live debate broadcast on Akaku Community Media from Seabury Hall. Maui News.

Maui Voters Weigh A Ballot Proposal To Create A Separate Housing Department. The move to split up the county’s Department of Housing and Human Concern comes as residents increasingly struggle to find affordable homes on the Valley Isle. Civil Beat.

Maui boaters blast state cutting spigots at harbors, urge water enforcement instead. Local recreational boaters said water spigot reductions at state harbors are fueling frustrations over water distribution — especially when thirsty hotel users continue to irrigate their properties.  Maui Now.

Maui County unveils new electric buses. The County of Maui Department of Transportation unveiled six new GILLIG BAE hybrid electric buses. The 35-foot ADA low-floor, energy-efficient buses will initially be deployed within Central Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Deadline Monday for comments on KIUC’s West Kauai Energy Project. Public comments on the draft environmental assessment for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s West Kaua‘i Energy Project are due by close of business today, Monday, Oct. 10. Garden Island.

Council candidate forums are Oct. 13, 14. The YWCA of Kaua‘i announced County Council candidate public forums Thursday and Friday, Oct. 13 and 14 from 5 p.m. at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Ige mulls pardons for cannabis convictions, raises coming for public school teachers, Oahu, Maui bumped up to medium COVID risk, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige reviewing request to pardon cannabis convictions. Gov. David Ige is reviewing a request by President Joe Biden to issue pardons in Hawaii for cannabis possession. After Biden called on governors to pardon state-level possession offenses, Ige’s communications director, Cindy McMillan, said Ige “supports measures that align state and federal laws on this issue and is reviewing the president’s request to determine whether it is consistent with state law and in the best interests of the people of Hawaii.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Public School Teachers To See Long-Awaited Pay Raises In November. Nearly 9,200 public school teachers should see a significant bump in their paychecks starting in November, several months after the Legislature approved the move to retain teachers by fixing longstanding pay inequity issues. Civil Beat. KHON2.

To address court ruling’s fallout, senators review changes to how felonies are charged. In the wake of a high court ruling that’s thrown scores of cases into question, state senators are reviewing a draft bill that would change the way prosecutors charge serious felony crimes. If the draft bill becomes law, prosecutors would no longer be allowed to double dip when seeking to charge suspects accused of certain crimes. They will have to pick between using a grand jury or a preliminary hearing. Hawaii News Now.

State leaders, tourism officials call tourism marketing deal a solid compromise. After months of heated debate over whether the state needs more tourism or if there’s too much, the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement have reached a tentative deal to share the duties of promoting and guiding Hawaii’s number one industry. In the proposed deal, CNHA will handle the destination management duties for the Hawaii market ― a role that will be greatly expanded from the past. Hawaii News Now.

UH study: Hawaiian corals select algae partnerships to help survive climate change. A new study by researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa found that the diversity of algae that lives symbiotically with corals in Kāne‘ohe Bay on the windward side of Oʻahu varies significantly in different parts of the bay. Big Island Now.

Innovations In Ancient Aquaculture Could Bring Striped Mullet Back To The Dinner Table. Recent developments in growing striped mullet could help conserve Hawaii’s oceans, establish food security and perpetuate Hawaiian culture — but can they overcome new challenges? Civil Beat.

Honolulu, Maui counties bumped back up into 'medium' COVID-19 threat level, CDC reports. Honolulu and Maui counties both bumped up to the medium COVID-19 community threat level. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just released its weekly update on Thursday. Both counties were in the green or low level last week. KITV4.

Oahu

Maintenance backlog and utility costs to be reduced at 49 Oahu parks. City officials announced Wednesday that a contractor has begun work on the first of 49 parks slated for upgrades that include installation of energy- efficient lighting, high- efficiency electrical transformers, plumbing fixtures that save water, irrigation line replacements and weather-influenced irrigation control systems. Star-Advertiser.

Kahikina: HART Won’t Replace Honolulu Rail’s Unusual Track Crossings. Despite the ongoing concerns of multiple track experts working on Honolulu rail, the debate over whether to replace the transit line’s unusual crossing points is closed, according to Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Lori Kahikina. Civil Beat.

Windward Oahu residents: Military’s ‘anti-terrorism’ fence is too big and too close to their homes. The military has its marching orders to build a roughly 3-mile, 8-foot-high barbed wire fence around Marine Corps Training Area Bellows in Waimanalo. Federal regulations require an “anti-terrorism force protection” fence around the training area. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Oahu home sales drop-off continued in September. Sales of existing single-family homes on Oahu in September suffered their biggest drop so far this year as rising mortgage rates and near-record prices amid high inflation and recession concerns deterred buyers. The Honolulu Board of Realtors reported Thursday that resales of single-­family houses dropped 34% in September to 278 from 424 in the same month in 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Fallen tree and sliding homes, signs of beach erosion. Signs of beach erosion are becoming more visible and some experts said this is just the start, as the state and county officials rush to find ways to manage the crisis that threatens public and private properties. A large Ironwood tree toppled into Kailua Beach on Tuesday, an effect of sea level rise and beach erosion. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Mauna Loa showing potential to erupt once again. Is Mauna Loa about to blow after 38 years of silence? A couple of weeks of elevated seismic activity and ground swelling on the mountain suggest that might be the case. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Government cost commission mulls powerful county manager. An ambitious proposal creating a powerful county executive has gained some traction in the Cost of Government Commission, but commissioners decided Thursday to refine the measure before taking a formal vote next week. West Hawaii Today.

Commission supports bill requiring rezoning extensions be approved by council. The Windward Planning Commission has recommended passage of a bill that would require the County Council to approve any time extensions for rezoning applications. Tribune-Herald.

Voting explainer: Hawaiʻi County charter amendment ballot questions. Voters on Hawaiʻi Island have three ballot amendment questions to consider in this year's general election. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Fund would cover costs of managed retreat. Money would help move buildings inland, respond to worsening erosion and sea level rise. In light of rapid climate change impacts, such as coastal erosion, a Maui County Council committee moved forward with a plan to create a separate fund specifically for addressing managed retreat along the shore. Maui News.

Voters To Decide If Maui Mayor Can Ask Appointees To Sign Undated Resignation Letters. Proposed county charter amendments focus on financial disclosures, conflicts of interest and other ways to boost the public’s faith in government. Civil Beat.

Mayor Victorino extends real property tax relief to severely disabled veterans. On Aug. 18, Mayor Victorino signed Bill 110, which extends real property tax relief to veterans who are designated as  “severely disabled” as a result of a service-connected injury while on duty with the Armed Forces of the United States. Maui Now. KHON2.

324 units planned as part of workforce affordable Kaulana Mahina Apartments in Central Maui. The 14.4 acre development site is bound by Waiʻale Road in the east, Kuikahi Drive in the north, and Honoapi‘ilani Highway in the west, near Long’s and Walgreen’s at the border of the Kehalani and Maui Lani neighborhoods. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i lays out plan for $10 million in American Rescue Plan funding. The majority of the funding in the proposed budget — about $7 million — will go toward the renovation of the former Big Save space at the Pi‘ikoi Building in Lihu‘e into a child care and youth center. Garden Island.

Details emerge in Koloa School bomb threat; Santos-Dasalia held at KCCC. The Koloa man who allegedly called in a bomb threat to Koloa School on Sept. 26 had been dating a woman whose children are students at the school, court documents show. Garden Island.

Gubernatorial candidates clash over abortion, legislative standards commission proposes term limits, Mauna Loa backcountry closes amid seismic activity, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gubernatorial candidates Green, Aiona clash over abortion in debate. Lt. Gov. Josh Green and former Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona sparred Wednesday night over the issues of abortion and whether to legalize recreational marijuana in their first televised debate to help decide who will become Hawaii’s next governor. Aiona is making his third run for the governor’s office as the Republican Party’s nominee, but faces formidable hurdles against Green, a Democrat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Reluctant Standards Commission Proposes Term Limits For Hawaii Lawmakers. The panel also forwarded a bill on legislative meetings but will take more time to examine proposals on public records, meetings and a state voters guide. Civil Beat.

VA secretary says staff shortages are being addressed to better serve Hawaii’s veterans, some of whom face obstacles to treatment. The head of the Department of Veterans Affairs testified on Oahu Wednesday about the state of health services in Hawaii and issues including staff shortages, women’s care and complaints from community clinic providers about payments. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HTA contract extended 6 months as dispute nears resolution. The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism said in a news release today that there is a “pathway towards a resolution” between the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, two parties involved in the conflict. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

First-ever conference prepares Department of Education staff for safety crisis. Wednesday was the final day of the three-day conference featuring national experts that aimed to guide department leaders and staff members in preventing, identifying and responding to various threats to school safety. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers urge Kaiser to resolve strike, improve mental health care. More than a dozen state lawmakers are urging Kaiser Permanente to come to an agreement with its mental health clinicians who have been striking for more than a month. The workers, represented by the National Union of Healthcare Workers, say that severe understaffing has put their patients’ health at risk and Kaiser needs to boost salaries and benefits to attract more employees. Star-Advertiser.

New booster shots urged as case counts plateau. The average number of daily COVID-19 cases remains steady as health officials continue to urge people to get a bivalent booster shot ahead of the winter season. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii health officials report 1,273 new COVID-19 infections, 8 deaths. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, increased to 6.3% compared with 5.7% reported the previous week. Star-Advertiser. KHON2

Oahu

Honolulu Ballot Proposal Would Steer Money To Affordable Housing. Proponents of a measure to dedicate money to Honolulu’s housing fund see it as an opportunity to help solve Oahu’s affordable housing shortage. Critics, meanwhile, say there are better ways to achieve that goal: chiefly by following the standard budgeting process in which the City Council decides how to spend money each year. Civil Beat.

City council appoints building lobbyist to planning commission. The Honolulu City Council confirmed a construction industry lobbyist to the Honolulu Planning Commission on Wednesday, despite concerns over his reappointment. Star-Advertiser.

Taxpayers will fund legal defense for officers accused of chasing car that crashed, failing to render aid. The Honolulu Police Commission has decided taxpayers will fund the defense of two Honolulu police officers accused of chasing a car that crashed and then failing to render aid. Officers Jake Bartolome and Erik Smith remain on restricted duty as the city Prosecutor’s Office investigates the allegations that the two did not stop to help the victims ― teens and adults who were seriously injured. Hawaii News Now.

Liquor control executives deny culture of retaliation, calling allegations ‘baseless’. The Honolulu Liquor Commission was accused of ignoring a culture of retaliation Wednesday as the City Council called on the commission to find ways to restore the public trust. The commission has been accused of discrimination against LGBTQ businesses and retaliation against others who complained about liquor inspectors. Hawaii News Now.

One month in, improvements seen under Waikiki ‘Safe and Sound’ initiative. Early Wednesday morning, police swept the area. Even during the day, they kept people from loitering. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mauna Loa summit backcountry closed after increased seismic activity. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park officials have closed the Mauna Loa summit backcountry because of increased seismic activity but say an eruption is not imminent. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers OK resolution calling for relocation of HCCC. The Hawaii County Council and a state oversight commission agree that the Hawaii Community Correctional Center should be moved to a different location. Tribune-Herald.

Council passes bill aimed at AVs. The Hawaii County Council Wednesday signed off on a bill that’ll help private property owners rid their land of abandoned or derelict vehicles. West Hawaii Today.

Council endorses Keauhou Bay land purchase. The last open piece of property on Keauhou Bay could soon belong to the public, following approval Wednesday by the County Council to purchase the parcel using property tax proceeds. West Hawaii Today.

UH-Hilo enrollment dips again. Enrollment for the University of Hawaii at Hilo declined again this year by 8.2%. Total enrollment for Fall 2022 is listed at 2,977 students, or 266 fewer than those enrolled in Fall 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Community meetings planned for Koa Waena affordable housing project in Kihei. The Public is invited to community meetings this weekend to learn more about the new Koa Waena affordable housing project by developer Peter Savio in Kīhei. Savio plans to break ground on the project later this year. Maui Now.

Maui sees decline in visitors at end of busy summer season. In the last month of a bustling summer that prompted airport officials to try and cut down on wait times, a total of 265,410 visitors arrived on Maui Island and spent $472.9 million, according to recent reports by the state and Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui News.

Maui median home price in September rises to $1,025,000, up 3% from same time. Overall inventory of single homes for sale ended the month at 249, up 7.8% from September 2021, boosting the month’s inventory by 45% compared to the same time last year. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i council approves first-of-its-kind sea level rise bill. With a unanimous county council vote, Kaua‘i is set to become one of the first counties in the nation to regulate construction based on future sea level rise projections. Garden Island.

Queen’s Bath access closed for winter. Effective now, the access gate to Queen’s Bath in Princeville is closed through winter, in the interest of public safety, according to a county press release. Garden Island. Kauai Now.