Governor signs climate change, ag bills; COVID-19 cases remain steady, community opposition stymies homeless housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor signs climate change bills into law. Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday signed a handful of measures that aim to fight climate change and move the state closer to achieving its ambitious climate goals. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

Hawai’i Gov. Green signs into law 10 bills supporting local agriculture. The measures enhance local food production through the acquisition of the Wahiawā Irrigation System; provide funding to deal with little fire ants and coffee pest control; expand coffee labeling regulations; and increase penalties for pesticide violations. Big Island Now.

Environmental Groups To Governor: Don’t Veto Water Protection Bills. The governor has expressed his intention to veto HB153, which would allow the Hawaii Commission on Water Resource Management to issue fines of up to $60,000 per day to those who violate the state water code. The current limit is $5,000 per day. Civil Beat.

Governor to attend high-level political forum, National Governors Association meeting. Governor Josh Green, M.D., will travel to New York City from July 9-14 to attend the United Nations High-Level Political Forum and the National Governors Association 2023 Annual Meeting. Maui Now.

Torched toilets, cracked sinks: Statewide spate of vandalism at parks prompts alarm. Parks officials statewide are begging vandals to stop destroying public parks facilities and asking park users to be on the lookout. Hawaii News Now.

State's new task force wants to spark change against booming illegal firework industry.  Both consumer and large aerial display fireworks are illegal in the state, and an inter-governmental group has its eyes on tackling the issue. Hawaii Public Radio.

State's first medical kauhale village reportedly full after 1 month. The 10 tiny homes were built for patients discharged from hospitals who would otherwise be released onto the street. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases ‘pretty steady’. On Wednesday, the state Department of Health reported a daily average of 71 cases, an average positivity rate of 8.4%, and average of 48 COVID-19 patients hospitalized over the week. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Struggles To Use Funding It Sets Aside For Community Facilities. In recent years, Honolulu has set aside millions of dollars to try to address the city’s growing homeless population but community opposition and difficulty finding suitable projects and sites is thwarting its efforts.  Civil Beat.

New 13-Hour Shifts For HPD Patrol Officers Are Raising Concerns.  The Honolulu Police Department plans to move patrol division personnel to 13-hour shifts starting in August. Civil Beat.

Authorities end search for Honolulu police officer who allegedly fled arrest. The search has ended Wednesday for a Honolulu police officer who allegedly fled his arrest for a restraining order violations. Hawaii News Now. KITV4

Affordable housing near Halawa rail station begins construction. Construction has begun on a low-income rental housing tower near one current end of the city’s operating rail line after a three-year delay. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Over 71,000 passengers ride Skyline in first 5, free days.  More than 71,000 passengers boarded the city’s new Skyline rail system over the initial five days of free rides — with the first full day of paid rides expected to provide the first real indication of how much interest people have in riding rail’s initial 11 miles. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii Judicial Commission Releases List Of Circuit Court Contenders. On Wednesday, the State Judicial Selection Commission released a list of six nominees for a recently vacated seat on the Circuit Court of the 1st Circuit, giving Gov. Josh Green 30 days to choose a name from the list. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Wastewater surveillance data may indicate potential increase in Big Isle COVID cases. Two more deaths from COVID-19 were recorded in Hawaii County this week, bringing the county death toll since the pandemic began to 247 people. Tribune-Herald.

Kailua-Kona man, 20, dies after Fourth of July fireworks accident.  A 20-year-old Kailua-Kona man who died after a fireworks accident during Fourth of July celebrations is the second reported death from fireworks in the state this year. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Waikoloa affordable housing ready for occupancy.  The project’s 110 rental units will begin filling with families this month following completion of construction of the estimated $46 million project developed by nonprofit Coalition for Specialized Housing and partner GSF LLC. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Resolution urges governor to issue emergency proclamation for Uncle Billy’s.  A Hawaii County Council resolution urging the governor to take action to remove the derelict former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel received wide support Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Public presentation questions sentencing of men convicted in West Maui hate crime.  A public presentation held on Wednesday night at the University of Hawaii Maui College raised concerns about the recent sentencing of two men involved in a high-profile hate crime that took place in West Maui in 2014. Hawaii News Now.

MPD investigating possible human remains discovered in Upcountry Maui.  Maui police are investigating after the discovery of what’s believed to be human remains in a remote area of Upcountry Maui. Hawaii News Now. Maui Now.  KITV4.

Maui firefighters respond to 20 emergency calls on Fourth of July holiday. The majority of these fires were small brush fires and rubbish bin fires which could be quickly extinguished, according to department reports; however, there were two brush fires that required response from multiple units. Maui Now.

Maui Humane Society to reduce pet adoption fees for “Empty the Shelters” event, July 6-31.  From July 6 to July 31, BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Summer National “Empty the Shelters” will occur at more than 335 shelters in 44 states with pets available for adoption for just $50 or less, including Maui Humane Society. Maui Now.

Kauai

Domestic passenger count tops 80,000 in June at Lihu‘e Airport.  The number of people offboarding domestic flights at Lihu‘e Airport climbed to its highest reading of the year last month, as the summer tourism season took flight on the island of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Average daily room rate rises in May. Stout visitor spending totals through the first five months of the year have been fueled, in large part by an accommodation sector that is experiencing a big upswing in room rates on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii recycling program beyond redemption? Plus, you can’t say 'FCK' on your license plate, state Capitol to install metal detectors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

DOH recycling program receives 2-year audit. Although the refund and recycling program’s issues involving fraud have reportedly waned, the audit did find that what it called a “significant deficiency” in internal controls to curb the problem of fraud as well as the ongoing reliance on third-party certifications remained — meaning an increased risk of fraud is still of concern. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Court: You Can’t Say “FCK” On Your License Plate. The ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is a loss for Honolulu resident Edward Odquina, who in 2021 applied for and received a personalized plate with the message “FCKBLM.” Civil Beat.  Star-Advertiser.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii losing economic strength, economist says.  Inflation has stabilized in Hawaii, but what is of concern to one of Hawaii’s leading economists is the state’s gross domestic product, which over the past five years has fallen way behind the national economy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Chamber of Commerce Seeks To Rein In Red Tape To Help Businesses. A new web portal is part of a long-term approach to improving the business environment in the state. Civil Beat.

State Capitol to get metal detectors after lawmakers and aides say they don't feel safe.  The Hawaiʻi State Capitol will have metal detectors installed at three entrances starting July 10, state agencies said Monday. Associated Press.

State Legislature plans to not override any items on governor's veto list. After consultation, the state Legislature will not override any bills or line-items that Gov. Josh Green intends to veto. Hawaii Public Radio.

Competitive Hawaii proposals sought to fight homelessness with federal funds. U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia L. Fudge, who wrapped up a two-day visit to Hawaii on Monday, encouraged local government leaders, developers, nonprofits and others to compete for a share of about $3.1 billion to be made available soon under the agency’s Continuum of Care program. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Housing Authority seeks 10,880 more affordable units. The Hawaii Public Housing Authority has taken on the monumental task of taking its inventory from 1,187 units to an additional 10,880, announcing Monday that it has chosen a developer for its Ka Lei Momi Redevelopment Project at nine existing housing properties over the next decade and beyond.  Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Now.  KHON2.

Gov. Green signs bills to improve school facilities, curricula.  Measures giving the state’s new School Facilities Authority access to millions more dollars and dramatically broader flexibility to build teacher housing and preschool classrooms were among a group of education-related bills signed into law by Gov. Josh Green in a ceremony Monday. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.  Maui Now.

Hawaii’s Parole Board Is The Most Powerful In The Country. That May Change. The paroling authority sets the minimum terms that inmates must serve before they can be released from prison, a task that other states assign to judges. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City Officials’ Pay Raises Weren’t Included In The Budget. Now What? The city charter mandates that these raises be delivered, meaning officials have to scrape together the money from other sources. Civil Beat.

Report: Despite cooling housing market, Oahu rents continue to soar.  During the past five years, average studio rents in Honolulu are up 25% to more than $1,600 a month while four-bedroom apartments are up 22% to nearly $3,700.  Hawaii News Now.

Oahu’s traffic-related fatalities remain high. At roughly the halfway mark, the number of traffic­-related fatalities in Hawaii is lower than at the same time in 2022. Star-Advertiser.

State, city strain to keep traffic signs clear of overgrown foliage.  Since the COVID-19 pandemic, labor shortages in state and city maintenance departments and a switch to sustainable yet less efficient weedkiller have hampered the frequency and quality of roadside maintenance. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Gangsters, Grandmas And The Good Word Take On West Oahu’s Game Rooms. An unlikely alliance is working to disrupt illegal gambling on the west side. Civil Beat.

State finds new operator for low-income complex. A private development partnership has taken over the Kulia i ka Nu‘u low-­income rental housing complex in Waianae under a state land lease arrangement that includes a planned renovation of the property. Star-Advertiser.

There’s a new viewing platform atop Koko Crater Stairs. The new viewing platform at the summit of the popular Koko Crater Stairs in Hawaii Kai has been completed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Public meeting planned for proposed traffic improvements near Hilo Harbor. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is hosting a public meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. today (July 5) to provide information about its proposed land acquisition for traffic improvements on Kalanianaʻole Street adjacent to Hilo Harbor. Big Island Now.

Following HSTA concerns, crews complete mold abatement effort at Hawaii school. Holualoa Elementary School students and staff will start the school year with an updated look following a $1.27 million renovation project that addresses campus-wide environmental concerns. Hawaii News Now.

Waipi‘o Valley Road phase one work completed.  One phase of work on the Waipi‘o Valley Road is over, but the rest is still a long way off. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Service outage cancels 2 committee meetings. Full council to meet Friday to discuss bills on tax surcharge, air guns, water rules. Two Maui County Council committee meetings that had been scheduled for Wednesday had to be canceled due to a service outage of the digital platform that hosts the council’s meeting documents, Presiding Officer Pro Tempore Tasha Kama announced Monday.  Maui News.

Conservation land designation resurfaces for discussion in committee on Thursday. The Maui Council committee on Agriculture, Diversification, Environment and Public Transportation will reconvene July 6 at 1:30 p.m. to discuss Resolution 23-146, requesting that the Conservation Planning Committee review and provide recommendations on the possible acquisition or management of certain lands for conservation purposes. Maui Now.

Committee agrees to revise proposed renaming of Puamana burial site to include Waianuʻukole. The Water and Infrastructure Committee agreed on a proposal Monday to rename Puamana Beach Park in Lahaina to Puamana Cultural Preserve at Waianuʻukole.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Visitor spending climbs past $1B in 2023 on Kaua‘i.  That was up 31.1 percent from $823.9 million in the same five-month period of 2022, and 40.7 percent from $767.6 million in the same five-month period of pre-pandemic 2019. Garden Island.

Nagramada takes Island School helm. Island School announced that Nancy Nagramada will be head of school. She assumed the role on July 1. Garden Island.

First Honolulu rail segment opens, HUD Secretary visits Hawaii, Kona child psychologist charged with sexually assaulting minor, Kauai ex-councilman drug ring supplier sentenced, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Governor Signs Tax Relief And Budget Bills. Not everything he originally proposed made it into the tax relief bill. He said those omissions will be revisited in the future. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.  Kauai Now.  KITV4.

HUD Secretary in Hawaii July 2-3 to discuss affordable housing.  The head of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will visit Oahu to meet with local officials and residents who use its Housing Choice voucher program known as Section 8. Hawaii News Now.

How a lapsing birth attendant exemption affects access to care in Hawaiʻi. When the state Legislature failed to pass a bill to extend birth attendant exemptions under the state midwifery laws and add additional licensing pathways this session, it affirmed the end of a three-year exemption period. Hawaii Public Radio.

Affirmative action ruling could test admission policies at Hawaii schools.  The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision last week striking down affirmative action in college admissions and favoring a “colorblind Constitution” has some educators and legal experts debating whether there may be ripple effects for Kamehameha Schools, the University of Hawaii and other entities and programs that are focused on Hawaiian people and culture. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ed Case Honored For Work On World’s Oceans. The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation lauds the Hawaii congressman's stewardship. Civil Beat.

Hawaii faces higher temperatures, drought as El Nino takes hold.  The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting higher-­than-average temperatures and below-average rainfall for the rest of the calendar year and into January.  Star-Advertiser.

Defense contractor Hawaiian Native Corp. is under investigation. The federal Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Internal Revenue Service are investigating potential financial and tax crimes by defense contractor Hawaiian Native Corp. and its 11 Dawson subsidiaries. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Rail ridership projections, revenue uncertain after Skyline opens.  Even with the first phase of the $9.8 billion rail line officially open, it’s still unclear how many passengers are needed to ride the system, how much revenue they would generate and what the real costs of maintenance will be.  Star-Advertiser. KITV4.  Hawaii News Now

Tommy Aiu Is Out As Honolulu Rail’s Private Security Chief.  As the first 10 miles of Honolulu’s rail transit line open for service, the city job to oversee private security along the system’s stations, platforms and driverless trains remains vacant. Civil Beat.

City compliance expert calls for urgent changes to embattled liquor commission. On Thursday, the city’s compliance expert Hui Chen shared her report to Honolulu Liquor Commission’s board members and gave suggestions on how they can improve the organization. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

New animal control agency takes helm.  The Hawaii Police Department on Saturday relinquished responsibility over animal control services to the newly formed Animal Control and Protection Agency under the Office of the Mayor. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Expanded West Hawaiʻi Golf Subsidy Begins.  This year’s program - subsidizing golf opportunities at The Village Course at Waikoloa and Makalei Golf Club - will run from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. Big Island Video News.

Kona psychologist who treats children accused of sexually assaulting minor. A 71-year-old clinical psychologist who specializes in treating children and teens who are dying or are chronically ill pleaded not guilty today in Kona Circuit Court to charges he sexually assaulted a minor. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Emails Reveal A Maui Developer’s Influence Over New Water Board Member.  While the Maui County Council was publicly vetting applicants to steer the new East Maui Community Water Authority, a local developer was working behind the scenes to convince the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to change its nominee.  Civil Beat.

Lawsuit challenges a new gun ban on Hawaii beaches.  Three Maui residents are suing to block the measure, arguing that Hawaii — which has long had some of the strictest gun laws in the nation and some of the lowest rates of gun violence — is going too far with its wide-ranging ban.  Associated Press.

Maui County has highest share of ‘severely rent burdened’ households. Maui County leads the state with the highest median asking rent, the highest median condominium price and is the most “severely rent burdened” in the state with renters paying more than 50 percent of their income toward rent, according to a recent report.  Maui News.

Kauai

Supplier in ex-Kauai council member’s drug ring is sentenced. A 41-year-old Kauai woman who was a backup supplier of methamphetamine to former Kauai County Council member Arthur Brun’s drug-trafficking organization was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua‘i refuse stations’ chronic closures due to “antiquated” equipment; upgrades coming. The construction projects for these upgrades are scheduled to go out to bid this summer. Actual construction of the refuse transfer station improvements will take place in a phased rollout.  Kauai Now.

Low rainfall keeps Kaua‘i surf spots clean despite chronically polluted streams. The dry season has been kind to Kaua‘i’s waters, as low rainfall protected much of the island’s surf spots from runoff pollution this month, according to Surfrider Kaua‘i’s Blue Water Task Force. Garden Island.

EV drivers face new road usage fee, Maui newspaper up for sale, more than 50% of Native Hawaiians now live outside the state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

EV drivers could see a new road usage charge. Senate Bill 1534, passed out of the 2023 legislative session will create a mileage-based road usage charge that will impact all electric vehicles first. Drivers will pay based on how much they use the roadways. KITV4.

COVID ‘whistleblower’s’ firing headed to arbitration. A former COVID-19-era epidemiological specialist who was fired from the state Health Department after saying “contact tracers” were woefully understaffed and overworked under dangerous conditions faces an arbitration hearing in July, followed by a possible trial over her lawsuit alleging wrongful dismissal. Star-Advertiser.

Special Interests Spent More To Lobby The Hawaii Legislature This Year. More than 300 organizations spent almost $5.6 million total on lobbying this legislative session, according to records filed with the Hawaii State Ethics Commission.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii to receive $150M for rural broadband access. Nearly $150 million in new federal funding for high-speed internet access is coming to Hawaii — a major boost to ongoing efforts to ensure broadband and internet service to households across the state, particularly in rural areas. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers look to increase Coast Guard’s Pacific footprint.  A $91.5 billion bill making its way through Congress funding programs under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security includes provisions to continue supporting an increased U.S. Coast Guard presence in the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Foster Kids Are Sleeping In Hotels And State Offices. They Have Nowhere Else To Go. There aren't enough foster homes, especially for kids with the biggest challenges. Civil Beat.

Leaving for Las Vegas: Reaching out to Native Hawaiians.  Trying to make it in Hawaii is becoming increasingly difficult — so impossible for some that more than 50% of Native Hawaiians are now living outside of the state. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiians share experience of mainland living. Native Hawaiians and former Hawaii residents who live on the mainland talked with the Honolulu Star-Advertiser about their lives, joys and challenges far away from Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Rail Spent $100 Million To Relocate Utilities. Much Of It May Have Been A Waste. Some cash spent on Honolulu utility relocation work under a rail contract with Nan Inc. went to mobilization costs, or to work in areas beyond the end of the rail line. Civil Beat.

Rail eminent domain dispute heads to Hawaii high court.  The Hawaii State Supreme Court is scheduled to hear oral arguments involving the Texas- based developer Howard Hughes Corp., doing business here as Victoria Ward Ltd., and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s 2018 condemnation of about 2 acres containing roughly 25 parcels owned by the developer — from Cooke to Kamakee streets. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Board of Water Supply will invest more than $43M for a new reservoir in Waiawa.  The Honolulu Board of Water Supply will invest $43.5 million for a new reservoir in Waiawa. Environmentalists say the project could help ease the strain caused by the Red Hill water crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu couple arrested in connection with fatal mass overdose; fentanyl distribution ring exposed.  A Honolulu couple has been arrested in connection with a suspected mass overdose incident in Waikiki that left two people dead and three others hospitalized in early June, according to a federal criminal complaint filed Monda. Hawaii News Now.

Thousands cited for running the red, the few who contest it are unsuccessful. According to numbers by the Department of Transportation, since the red light safety camera pilot program started in November 2022, a total of 6,311 citations have been issued at all 10 of the locations. KHON2.

Bishop Museum announces settlement with former CEO, president. The Bishop Museum has reached a settlement in the dispute with former President and CEO Melanie Ide. In January, after a months-long investigation, the museum’s board of directors voted unanimously to terminate Ide, General Counsel Barron Oda, and Vice President of Operations, Planning and Program Management Wesley “Kaiwi” Yoon. Hawaii Public Radio.

This North Shore Community Wants Stronger Protection Against Disasters, Climate Change. Hauula's efforts to build a resiliency hub may get a boost from a FEMA grant supporting more rural areas. Civil Beat.

More Funding Means More Lifeguard Coverage On Oahu. The new budget includes money for 18 new lifeguard positions and extended hours, with an emphasis on the Leeward Coast. Civil Beat.

Kamaaina to get reservations-free entry to Hanauma Bay.  The Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation said all Hawaii residents with valid photo identification, such as a Hawaii driver’s license or school ID, in July will be able to enter the nature preserve for free during hours of operation from 6:45 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, without either, thanks to additional staffing. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Debate over manta ray tours continues. A decade-long discussion over potential rules and regulations for manta ray tours will continue after Gov. Josh Green stated his intent to veto a bill that would have altered the permitting process. Tribune-Herald.

New Mass Transit administrator named. Hawaii County has announced the appointment of Victor Kandle as the new Mass Transit Agency administrator. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

PTA change of command set for Wednesday.  U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kevin Cronin to leave after two years as commanding officer of Pohakuloa Training Area. Tribune-Herald.

Naniloa given OK for new loan aimed at avoiding foreclosure. After repeated rejections, the owners of the Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo secured approval Friday from the Board of Land and Natural Resources for a new mortgage to pay off the business’ current one. Tribune-Herald.

Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Lūʻau Hale In Hilo To Reopen.  The facility was being utilized by the State Department of Health and the Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency for the past two years. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Ogden Newspapers exploring options for new ownership of The Maui News.  The Ogden Newspapers announced Monday that it is exploring options for the possible sale of their Maui Publishing group and is planning to accept offers from interested parties over the next few weeks.  Maui News.

Hawaiian Electric invites Maui community to offer input on renewable generation plans. Hawaiian Electric will hold a community meeting on July 11 to receive comments on its proposal to build new generating units that can run on a variety of renewable fuels, including biofuels. Maui Now.

In partnership with Job Corps, MPD launches new program to help at-risk youth. The Maui Police Department is partnering with Hawaii Job Corps Center to help at-risk teens and young adults. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Tenants facing eviction hope state will convert Kauaʻi’s Waipouli apartments to affordable housing. Affordable housing advocates continue efforts for Waipouli apartments.   Affordable housing advocates held a second press conference in the Kintaro restaurant parking lot last week, urging the state government to purchase the Courtyards at Waipouli apartments and secure all 82 units as affordable housing for 60 years. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Green signs 18 government anti-corruption bills, journalist shield law, announces potential veto list; Honolulu Mayor Blangiardi signs $3.4B budget and $350 property tax rebate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green signs batch of government reform bills. These bills, passed by the Legislature earlier this year, include one requiring Hawaii legislators to disclose relationships with lobbyists, one prohibiting campaign donations by lobbyists to elected officials during or close to legislative sessions and one enhancing criminal penalties for public corruption offenses. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Green signs bill protecting the work of journalists. Gov. Josh Green on Friday signed into law a measure that brings back and makes permanent protections to prevent reporters from being forced by state courts to disclose confidential  information or sources. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Announces Intent To Veto 11 Bills. Certain bills related to water code penalties, ocean recreation commercial permits, and education are all under threat of veto. Gov. Josh Green plans to veto 11 bills passed by lawmakers this year, including one related to the controversial Hawaii Technology Development Corp. and another that he says could discourage the building of new housing.  Civil Beat. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  Maui News.

Tourism plans extend beyond stewardship contract, CNHA says. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement got a seat at the tourism table when it secured a multiyear, $27 million contract for stewardship services from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hussey leaving post as CEO of Office of Hawaiian Affairs.  Office of Hawaiian Affairs Ka Pouhana/CEO Sylvia Hussey announced she will be leaving the organization June 30, at the end of the fiscal year, “to focus on her personal and ‘ohana health.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Video News. Maui News.

Oahu

Mayor Rick Blangiardi approves Honolulu’s $3.41B budget. The mayor also formally adopted the city’s one-time $350 tax rebate that will be granted to nearly 152,000 qualifying homeowners with an active home exemption on their 2023 assessment, regardless of property value. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Inside Honolulu’s Six-Decade Fight Over Rail: It’s Always Been ‘Boondoggle Or Boon’. Proposals for an elevated rail system on Oahu date back to the 1960s. Now, at least part of a modern-day rail line is finally about to open to the public. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Judge nixes bid to depose Pacific Fleet chief in Red Hill lawsuit. A federal judge decided Friday to quash an attempt to make the commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet sit for a deposition in a civil lawsuit brought by military and civilian families whose drinking water was contaminated with jet fuel from the Navy’s Red Hill fuel facility in November 2021. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Board OK’s removal of Doris Duke breakwater.  The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has given the green light to demolish the Diamond Head Breakwater, a wall of large boulders that juts out into the ocean, creating a protected cove fronting Doris Duke’s Shangri La estate. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Kaimuki residents protest ‘monster home’ construction.  An appeal by a builder of so-called monster homes in Kaimuki drew the anger of about 15 Kaimuki residents outside the city’s Mission Memorial Auditorium who beat on a drum and waved signs that read, “Kaimuki against monster homes” and “Be a good neighbor” at a hearing of the city’s Building Board of Appeals on Friday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Popular Koko Crater hike to close temporarily.  The city plans to close the Koko Crater stairs for four days this month to replace the viewing platform at the top. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Waste proposal draws doubts: Board presented with information on trash conversion technology. A company’s proposal to convert Big Island waste into energy, concrete and more raised eyebrows Friday at a Hawaii County Environmental Management Commission meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Green, BISAC tout medical kauhale for Hilo.  The concept for a medical kauhale for homeless people in Hilo originally came from the Big Island Substance Abuse Council, or BISAC. Tribune-Herald.

State gun permits drop: Hawaii County sees registration decrease of 7.9% in 2022. In Hawaii County, there were 4,510 applications processed last year, a decrease of 7.9% from the 4,899 applications processed in 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Budget cuts leave boat ramp in limbo.  The state project to reopen the Pohoiki Boat Ramp regained, then promptly lost, $35 million in funding this month after gubernatorial budget cuts. Tribune-Herald.

Land Acquisition To Expand Hilo Harbor Open For Comment.  The draft environmental assessment for the Hilo Harbor Private Lands Acquisition and Development has been published for public review. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Former Mayor Arakawa, Kalo Farmers Among 6 Chosen For New East Maui Water Board. The County Council's selections marked the culmination of a weekslong power struggle over control of the board that will help shape the region's future. Civil Beat. Maui News.

Phase II response work begins at fuel spill site atop Haleakalā. Phase two of the spill response efforts at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex began on June 20, 2023. This comes after 700 gallons of diesel fuel spilled at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex Jan. 29 into Jan. 30, 2023.  Maui Now.

Environmental groups raise alarms as illegal dumping in West Maui continues to grow.  Despite recent crackdowns by the county, they said that illegal junkyards at Ukumehame and Cut Mountain have gotten larger in recent months. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Plan To Save Kauai Forest Birds With ‘Mosquito Birth Control’ Published. State officials are seeking public comment on a plan to bring the world's first attempt at landscape-scale mosquito control to Kauai. Civil Beat. Garden Island.  Kauai Now.

Jobless rate falls to 2.5 percent on Kaua‘i.  The unemployment rate in the County of Kaua‘i moved within spitting distance of pre-pandemic lows last month, largely because of robust hiring in the accommodation sector ahead of the summer tourism season. Garden Island.

Residents in Kauai pushing for the state to lower their rent as they can no longer afford the price increase.  Since 2019, residents have been working to convince the state to lower their rent so it can be affordable again. This came after rent increased after the 10-year affordable housing plan ended.  KITV4.

Green lops $1B off budget amid less rosy economic forecast, Teamsters end gas strike, Oahu first responder campus axed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green plans to cut over $1B from Hawaii budget. Gov. Josh Green told state legislators today that he plans to eliminate or reduce over $1 billion in spending on 22 projects from the state budget because of projected reductions in state revenue. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Detailed list of budget cut line items. Governor's Office.

Gov. Green signs bills relating to domestic violence and child welfare. Gov. Josh Green signed eight bills at the state Capitol on Wednesday relating to domestic violence and sexual assault, and seven bills relating to wellness and child welfare. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi tackles health care shortage with loan forgiveness, nurse programs. The state continues to face a severe health care shortage, which Gov. Josh Green reports as about 4,000 vacancies in the field statewide. In response, the upcoming state budget has $30 million for a loan forgiveness program for health care workers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green signs fireworks task force bill, several others into law. A bill that establishes a state task force to stop the importation of illegal fireworks and explosives into Hawai‘i is now law after Gov. Josh Green signed it last week. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Gas strike ends after workers approve new contract. Hawaii Gas union workers have voted to approve a three-year contract, ending a two-week strike across the state. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

HTA awards $3.78M for its events, enrichment programs. The Hawaii Tourism Authority awarded $3.78 million in funding for its Signature Events and Community Enrichment programs, supporting 76 community projects, festivals and events across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii Governor Axes $71M For First Responders Campus. In an unusual move, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday used his line-item veto power to reject a $50 million appropriation for proposed emergency and cybersecurity facilities in Mililani. Civil Beat.

This Stretch Of North Shore Highway Could Be Moving Inland — With A Parking Lot On The Beach Side. Managed parking is set to come to this popular beach teeming with tourists and residents who come to watch the sea turtles. Civil Beat.

Plan to replace Ward Center with two new high-rises revealed. The largest landowner in Kakaako has filed permits with the state to build two new high-rises along Ala Moana Boulevard. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

State gives Hawaii library system a shot in the arm. The state Board of Education today will discuss $36 million in capital improvement projects for the Hawaii State Public Library System, including new libraries in Keaau and Waikoloa. Tribune-Herald.

Longtime Geothermal Critics Refuse to Back Down As Puna Plant Eyes Expansion. In a move that has ignited a fresh wave of criticism, a geothermal plant on Hawaii island that has long operated on the flanks of one of the world’s most active volcanoes is seeking state approval to expand production. Civil Beat.

Mayor Roth addresses Kona concerns at Town Hall. Mayor Mitch Roth and his cabinet presented an update on issues impacting the Kona community at Tuesday’s Town Hall Meeting at Makaeo Pavilion at Old Kona Airport Park. This was the second in a series of meetings he has planned for the island. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Legendary UH Hilo basketball coach Jimmy Yagi dies at 88. Jimmy Yagi, the architect of “Vulcan Fever” who put Hawaii’s small college basketball on the map with energy, tenacity and, most of all, humility, died today of natural causes at Hilo Hospital. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Green signs bills to help West Maui Hospital, expand nursing program. Gov. Josh Green signed a pair of bills on Tuesday that could help finance a portion of the West Maui Hospital as well as expand a program to help nurses advance their careers. Maui News. Maui Now.

Judge Michelle Drewyer sworn in as Maui Circuit Court Judge.  She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Richard Bissen, Jr. who is now Maui Mayor. Maui Now.

Kauai

Passengers departing Līhuʻe Airport should arrive 2-3 hours early due to screening problem.  Additional time may be needed in the check-in process because the checked bag screening equipment is not at full capacity.  Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

County of Kauaʻi launches revamped website. The County’s website was remodeled to enhance its user-friendliness, improve search capabilities and provide access to well-organized information.  Kauai Now.

Hawaii bans unlicensed vaping imports, reward offered for identification of monk seal killer, Oahu median home price again tops $1M, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii law bans import of e-cigarettes, e-liquids. It is now illegal to import electronic smoking devices and e-liquids into the islands after Gov. Josh Green signed a bill into law Tuesday as part of a years-long and continuing effort to prevent children from becoming addicted to nicotine.  Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now

Hawaii lawmakers take steps to prevent fentanyl deaths. The deaths of two men from Hawaii following a suspected fentanyl overdose involving five people in a Waikiki hotel room over the weekend has spurred Hawaii lawmakers, including Gov. Josh Green, to move forward on measures designed to prevent deaths from the potent synthetic opioid. Civil Beat.  KITV4. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Attorney General prevails in federal challenge to hemp regulations. The U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaiʻi entered judgment in favor of the Hawaiʻi Department of Health and the Director of Health in a lawsuit challenging the Department’s regulations prohibiting the sale of Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC products processed from hemp. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Gov. Green signs 22 bills into state law. The bills cover a myriad of issues, including raising salaries and pay for benefits of Hawaiʻi’s public employees. Big Island Now.

NOAA offers reward to help find Hawaiian monk seal killer. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to a successful prosecution of those responsible. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Report: High levels of bacteria detected at multiple Hawaii beaches. The Surfrider Foundation’s Blue Water Task Force released its latest clean water report that identified three Hawaii waterways as priority beaches with high bacteria rates. Hawaii News Now.

State’s Embattled Ag Corporation Has Chance For A Reset As It Seeks New Leadership. The Agribusiness Development Corp. is taking steps to fill the leadership vacuum left by the sudden death of executive director James Nakatani in April. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Council to review mayor’s proposed $3.41B budget.  The Honolulu City Council is expected today to review and consider approval of Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s proposed $3.41 billion executive operating budget and a nearly $1.1 billion capital improvement plan for the 2024 fiscal year, which begins July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Amid outrage over proposed 64% raise, council to consider measure that would ban outside income. The controversial 64% raise for City Council members is still slated to take effect without a vote in about three weeks. But a related plan ― to ban outside income ― is on the agenda at Wednesday’s council meeting. Hawaii News Now.

Computer Glitches Are Causing Concerns Over The Integrity Of Oahu’s Neighborhood Board Elections. Questions are flying about the results of the recent Honolulu Neighborhood Board elections, with some people complaining they were unable to vote online because of computer glitches amid surprisingly low voter participation in areas known for high levels of civic engagement. Civil Beat.

Environmental risks will persist after Red Hill tanks are drained. Ever since thousands of gallons of jet fuel spewed from a pipeline at Red Hill in November 2021 and made its way into the Navy’s drinking water system, sickening military families, environmentalists and water officials have had their sights set on ensuring that the fuel in the facility’s massive underground tanks that sit just 100 feet above an aquifer is permanently removed. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu median home price tops $1M again amid high rates. Single-family resales fetched $1,109,000 in May, up 10.9% from $999,995 in April and down just 3.9% from the record $1,153,500 in the year-earlier period, according to data released Tuesday from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island EV charging plan withdrawn after criticism. A proposal to require some Big Island gas stations to install electric vehicle charging stations was roundly rejected Tuesday after criticism from gas station owners. Tribune-Herald.

Managing director defends sweep of homeless at Kona park. Hawaii County on Tuesday responded to the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii regarding concerns raised in a letter that demanded the county stop evicting people from homeless encampments without first providing adequate shelter. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Group to sue over Kailua-Kona sewage discharges.  A group of citizens intends to file a civil suit against Hawaii County over the discharge of sewage into a popular local harbor in Kailua-Kona. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Sheriff recruitment open on Maui. Deputy sheriff recruitment is now open through June 12 on Maui and Oahu, the state Department of Law Enforcement announced Monday.  Maui News.

Woman sent to prison for embezzling $59K to feed addiction. A Wailuku woman who embezzled at least $59,000 from her former employer to support her opioid addiction was sentenced in federal court on Oahu last week to one year and one day in prison. Maui News.

 
/Kauai

Solid Waste Division leaders to provide Kekaha Landfill update. Local environmental groups will tackle Kaua‘i’s ongoing landfill crisis with guest speakers from the Kaua‘i County Solid Waste Division on June 14, at this month’s Kaua‘i Climate Action Forum. Kauai Now.

Domestic arrivals dropping. The number of people getting off domestic flights at Lihu‘e Airport dropped 7.5 percent in May, as passenger counts fell further behind the record-setting pace of 2022. Garden Island.

Abercrombie appointed to UH Board of Regents, more state Senate shenanigans, federal judge skeptical of defense arguments in Honolulu conspiracy case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Gov. Abercrombie among interim UH regent appointees. The inclusion of outspoken former Gov. Neil Abercrombie among three people appointed to the University of Hawaii Board of Regents is seen by observers as bearing potential to cause at least some shift in the measured culture of the board, and in the university’s fractured relationship with some state senators. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Big Island Now.

How A Few Hawaii Senators Conspired To Get Rid Of An Agency Board Member Who Was In The Way. Vassilis Syrmos’ position as a director of the quasi-independent Hawaii Technology Development Corp. was supposed to be free from politics. But that didn’t stop a clique of lawmakers led by Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz from mounting a secretive, 11th-hour campaign to get rid of Syrmos, a University of Hawaii vice president who has openly questioned a project in Dela Cruz’s district. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Is Clamping Down On Unlicensed Care Homes. State officials have grown increasingly concerned about the facilities, with 89 investigations already underway. Civil Beat.

Lawmaker calls for audit of Hawaii film office amid local hiring feud. A state senator is calling for an audit of the Hawaii State Film Office in a feud over whether the office is doing enough to promote the hiring of local workers in film and television productions. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Free summer meals for keiki offered at 86 public schools. Eighty-six public schools across the state will offer free meals during part of the summer to children ages 18 years and younger, regardless of their public school enrollment status, the state Department of Education has announced. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  KHON2.

Current cesspool conversion program still not enough to wipe out waste problem. The current pilot program only had $5 million available to homeowners. If the state were to expand it so that 3,000 cesspools could be upgraded each year, it would cost Hawaii $61 million every year for the next 27 years - or a total of more than $1.6 Billion for cesspool conversions. KITV4.

Teamsters to strike Hawaii Gas over contract impasse. Hawaii Teamsters and Allied Workers, Local 996, which represents 217 members across the state, said in a letter that a strike would begin at 12:01 a.m. Thursday and continue until an agreement between both parties is reached. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu

Arguments To Dismiss Honolulu Conspiracy Case Met With Skepticism.  On Wednesday, lawyers for three former Honolulu officials tried to convince the judge the federal conspiracy charges against their clients should be dismissed.  Former Honolulu attorney Donna Leong, former Honolulu Police Commission chair Max Sword and former managing director Roy Amemiya are accused of setting up ex-police chief Louis Kealoha’s $250,000 severance agreement without Honolulu City Council approval and trying to keep the deal quiet.  Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu rail system is ‘ready to go’ June 30.  Rail trains are running, cracked “hammerhead” station supports are fixed and reinforced and passenger service is scheduled to begin June 30, including a four-hour window on that Friday when anyone can ride and experience the country’s first fully automated rail system for free. Star-Advertiser.

Navy wants to remove 3 pipelines at Red Hill fuel facility.  The Navy announced Wednesday it wants to dismantle the pipelines connecting the massive fuel tanks at its underground Red Hill facility to Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Bed bugs at Honolulu’s airport trigger deep cleaning, gate closures. Deep cleaning is underway at several Honolulu airport gates after bed bugs were reported. State Transportation Director Ed Sniffen said his agency got reports of the bugs in one of the E Gates in Terminal 2 on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Public outcry over crime heard in Maili meeting. A public meeting to address illegal game rooms and cockfighting on Oahu’s west side on Wednesday was marked by emotional public input, allegations of public corruption and pleas to end the proliferation of guns in the community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

DLNR: 50 to 60 coral colonies damaged by cinder blocks used for canoe regatta. Sixty-pound cinder blocks placed in the ocean for a Hawaii Island canoe regatta last weekend caused damage to approximately 50 to 60 coral colonies in Kailua Bay, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  KHON2.

Setbacks for ramp, seawall: Funding pulled for Laupahoehoe project. Shifting funding priorities and the harrows of nature have pushed repairs for the Laupahoehoe Boat Ramp and seawall further into the future. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Roth’s town hall series begins in West Hawai’i; issues include vacation rentals, homelessness, feral cats, pickleball. On Tuesday evening in South Kona, Hawai’i County Mayor Mitch Roth heard an earful during his first town hall in a new series of community meetings across the island aimed at providing updates and fostering engagement with residents. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County Council to inventory unused funds from construction projects. Budget committee members are looking at an inventory of projects with lapse dates of 2018 or older. That amounts to about $28 million in past funding. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Lauded Summer Food Program Has Restarted But Rural Kids Could Miss Out Due To USDA Rules. Demographic shifts mean that all of Maui County is excluded from a federal program meant to benefit kids in rural communities. Civil Beat.

Another potential roadblock for decade-long effort to safely open a new Kihei high school. Kulanihakoi High School in Kihei hopes to welcome its first students this fall – if it can get through all the red tape. Hawaii News Now.

Resident input sought on county parks and recreation facilities. Starting Thursday, Maui County households will be randomly offered an invitation to complete a survey, which will help guide the Department of Parks and Recreation in managing and developing parks, facilities and recreation programs, the county said.  Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai residents seek state’s help to preserve affordable housing. Residents at a Kauai housing project are asking for the state’s help to keep their apartments affordable. They say the owner of the Courtyards at Waipouli Apartments plans to sell the 82-unit Kapaa complex to a private developer, and they’re asking the state for funding to keep rents at affordable levels. Hawaii News Now.

Kaua‘i County Council passes resolution supporting public access of Coco Palms lands. The Kaua‘i County Council approved in a 4-2 vote on Wednesday a resolution urging the state Board of Land and Natural Resources to prioritize public access for disputed land surrounding the derelict Coco Palms Resort after nearly failing to come to a decision for the second time in two weeks. Garden Island.

Youth football equipment shed burns down in Kauai, causes $200K in damage. Kauai police are investigating after a storage shed containing youth football equipment went up in flames early Wednesday morning in Kapa’a. Hawaii News Now.