Erosion risks increase on Oahu's famed North Shore, Navy plans to double bombing of bird sanctuary island, ICE detention worries Lahaina immigrants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State, city officials warning Sunset Beach residents of increasing erosion risks. State and city officials are warning homeowners and community members of increasing risks along a stretch of Sunset Beach where erosion caused part of a house to collapse last week. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Navy Plans To Double Bombing Of This Tiny Hawaiian Island. U.S. Navy plans bombing exercises at state bird sanctuary amid community backlash. Ka'ula is vital to maintain military readiness for the Pacific, the Navy says. But its plan to boost training there alarms the community, environmentalists. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Saving corals requires cutting carbon emissions, University of Hawai‘i study finds. Hawai‘i researchers have discovered that eight of the most common species of coral around the islands can adapt to ocean warming and acidification, but only if efforts to cut carbon emissions are made. Big Island Now.

A tribute to longtime Maui resident Kris Kristofferson. One of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century, Kristofferson often donated his time for worthy causes, particularly in his hometown of Hana. He died at his Maui home on Saturday at age 88. Maui News. Reuters.

Oahu

Voters To Decide Pay Raises For The Honolulu City Council. Honolulu voters will get a say on how City Council members’ salaries are determined, a response to widespread criticism over the 64% raises given to them last year by the city salary commission. Civil Beat.

Election will decide whether Kailua turning left or right.  Voters in Kailua and a portion of Kaneohe will pick someone new to represent them in the state House of Representatives on Nov. 5, choosing between a Democrat and a Republican who disagree whether Kailua has become more progressive or more conservative after decades of reelecting moderate Republican Rep. Cynthia Thielen. Star-Advertiser.

Age, philosophy divide rivals for Kaneohe-to-Mokuleia seat. Republican state Sen. Brenton Awa, 38, faces his first reelection contest on Nov. 5 against a fellow Native Hawaiian who’s a generation older, 65-year-old Democrat Ben Shafer, to represent a vast and diverse district that runs from the northern end of Kaneohe, up the Windward side and across the North Shore to Mokuleia. Star-Advertiser.

Locked out Kapiolani nurses to keep benefits; contract talks to resume Monday.  The hospital’s administration said that it would continue medical, dental and vision benefits after Monday after the union agreed to continue using a federal mediators for negotiations and not to disrupt access to the hospital. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki center closer to redevelopment. The Hawaii Housing Finance Development Corp. is entering into a memorandum of agreement with the Waikiki Community Center that clears the way for redevelopment of the existing center and remaining property, which could include a 135- to 200-unit affordable housing tower. Star-Advertiser.

Waipahu park reopens after nearly $4.2 million in renovations. After about 21 months of renovations and nearly $4.2 million later, Waipahu’s Hans L’Orange Neighborhood Park has reopened to the public. KHON2.

Waiʻanae farm gets $100k grant to bolster workforce housing and retain employees. A $100,000 grant will help provide housing for farmers working in Waiʻanae for MAʻO Organic Farms. The grant is part of a Nareit initiative to support affordable housing projects provided by nonprofit organizations. Hawaii Public Radio.

State receives 6 bids to remove Falls of Clyde. The latest development could well signal an end to the long saga of the 145-year-old ship currently berthed at Pier 7, where it once served as a floating museum for the Hawaii Maritime Center. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Army man faked marriage for ill-gotten benefits. An ex-Army soldier was sentenced to three months in federal prison Thursday and must pay $202,309 in restitution after conspiring with a woman to evade U.S. immigration laws, enter into a fake marriage and steal federal benefits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Puna Traffic Alert: Changes To Highway 130 Contraflow Start Monday. The Hawaiʻi DOT says changes will include right turns only into and out of Kaloli Drive and a 0.3-mile extension in both directions. Big Island Video News.

3 Hawaiian monk seal pups admitted to marine mammal hospital in Kona. Three underweight Hawaiian monk seal pups observed in the Northern Hawaiian Islands were brought to the marine mammal center in Kona as researchers were concerned for their survival heading into winter. Big Island Now.

County receives large donation of animal control equipment. The Hawaii County Council approved a resolution earlier this month accepting a donation of equipment worth $144,595 for the county’s Animal Control and Protection Agency. Tribune-Herald.

More funding in the works to battle ROD.  Additional federal funding to combat Rapid ‘Ohi‘a Death has strong support in Congress after a bill by Hawaii lawmakers unanimously passed the House of Representatives this week. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

An ICE Detention In Lahaina Rocks The Immigrant Community. An undocumented immigrant was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week in Lahaina, sending fear through the community and raising concerns that undocumented people will stop asking for government assistance while they’re still trying to recover from last year’s wildfires.  Civil Beat.

Rebuild of homes destroyed in Kula fire runs into costly wastewater upgrades. Kula, as is the rest of the state, is running up against a law passed by the state Legislature in 2017 that mandates all cesspools be eliminated in Hawai’i by 2050. Maui Now.

Maui mayor voices need for county water distribution after wildfires. Maui water rights advocates are celebrating a move by Mayor Richard Bissen to take control over water distribution in his county. The mayor says the county can do more to restore natural streams while still providing water for housing and agriculture. Hawaii News Now.

Maui lawmaker says millions of gallons of recycled waste water are going unused daily. A Maui Lawmaker says a water shortage is delaying the construction of hundreds of needed residential units in West and South Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Officials sort priorities to devise Lahaina recovery plan. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its federal, state and local partners have cleared only 64% of commercial lots, with completion not expected until early 2025. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii DOE Continues Its Search For An Elementary School Campus In Lahaina. School leaders said it's not possible to return the school to its original location in Lahaina town because of limited space. Civil Beat. Maui News.

Baldwin Beach Park reopens after pavilion is removed. Baldwin Beach Park was reopened on Friday, after work to remove the park pavilion was completed, according to a Friday announcement by the County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation.  Maui News.

Kauai

County asks East Kauaʻi residents to attend upcoming ‘community design workshops’. The Planning Department of the County of Kauaʻi will hold several workshops in Kapaʻa and surrounding areas from Oct. 1-3 as part of its East Kaua‘i Community and Circulation Plan. Kauai Now.

DHHL shifts strategy to acquire Kauai rental complex. Courtyards at Waipouli, the 82-unit complex that DHHL wants to buy despite pushback from existing tenants and some agency beneficiaries, would no longer be reserved for beneficiaries with low and very low incomes as previously planned. Star-Advertiser.

Blessing held for Lima Ola housing project. A small group of dignitaries participated in the blessing of the Lima Ola Supportive Housing Project in Eleele on Friday. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Offshore wind farm plan gets blowback, UH president candidates begin statewide forums, Big Island mayor contest heats up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Offshore wind farm plan gets blowback. Aukahi Energy LLC, a joint venture involving a subsidiary of French utility giant EDF Group, in recent months has publicly shared its vision to put 22 to 30 floating wind turbines — each taller than a football field — between Oahu and Molokai to supply about 25% of the electricity used on Oahu at an estimated cost of over $1.8 billion. Star-Advertiser.

David Lassner advises next UH president to work on building relationships.  Lassner, who just turned 70, has led a 10-campus system that touches Hawaii and its residents in ways unlike any other state department or agency, and he has exceeded the average career life span of typical university presidents across the country. Star-Advertiser.

Next UH president to face ‘autonomy’ with strings attached. University of Hawaii officials have to defend their annual budget requests to the state Legislature every year because tuition, donations, endowments and other revenue sources aren’t enough to keep the 10-campus system running on a budget of over $1 billion. The institution employs nearly 8,000 people while educating 46,000 students. Star-Advertiser.

Meet the two candidates for UH President at a public forum near you. The public will have the opportunity to meet the two finalists for UH President on Maui, Kauai, Big Island and Oahu starting Monday, Sept. 23. KHON2.

Convention Highlights New Prominence Of Hawaiian Leadership. This year's Native Hawaiian Convention focused on how Hawaiians have played a much bigger role in shaping policy. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian council seeks to develop economic opportunities.  The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement already has gotten a firm foothold in tourism products, especially in Waikiki, since securing a multiyear, $27 million contract for stewardship services in 2023 from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Data consultant on how Native Hawaiians are getting priced out of paradise. The Conversation talked to data and technology consultant Matt Jachowski about his conference presentation titled “Aloha Means Goodbye": why Native Hawaiians have left the islands in droves. Hawaii Public Radio.

Investors push for better deal in Territorial merger. On Tuesday, Blue Hill and other bank investors reaffirmed their commitment to a $12-per-share cash offer for Territorial, initially announced April 29, that would allow up to 30% of current shareholders to remain invested in the state’s fifth-largest bank as it aims for a turnaround under new leadership. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

UH wave energy project with military takes shape off Kāneʻohe. The military has been looking at this wave conversion technology for some 20 years. It's far from perfect, but the possibilities are limitless. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapi‘olani nurses plan protest before talks resume. Unionized nurses, who have been barred from work for over a week, plan to hold a demonstration today outside Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women &Children after contract negotiations ended Sunday with no resolution. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Turtle Bay Developer’s Execs Were Part Of A Global Company With A Questionable Environmental Record.  Top executives at the company behind a major residential development near Turtle Bay Resort previously were high-ranking officers with an international developer that has frequently come under fire for environmental practices and community complaints. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Roth, Alameda face off: Mayoral candidates spar while fielding questions during forum. Hawaii County’s two remaining mayoral candidates took potshots at each other in between setting out their own policy plans at a forum on Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Top Candidates In Tight Big Island Mayor’s Race Offer A Study In Contrasts. While they agree on some issues and diverge on others, Mitch Roth and Kimo Alameda differ sharply in style and presentation. Civil Beat.

Council approves ohana regulation changes. Bill 123’s most significant change allows up to three ohana units — now called “accessory dwelling units” or ADUs — to be built on a single lot, as long as that lot is within a zoning districts that permits ohana units.  Tribune-Herald.

Bid for overhaul of Hilo wastewater plant could be approved next month. Hawaii County next month could approve a bid for contractors to begin the long-awaited overhaul of the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Delays Hamper State Effort To Better Manage West Maui’s Limited Water. The Lahaina wildfire and staffing shortages stymied the state's review of new and existing water users. Civil Beat.

Maui Voters To Decide Whether To Extend Terms For Board And Commission Members. If approved, a charter amendment on the November ballot would allow citizens to serve two consecutive terms or 10 years, whichever is greater. Civil Beat.

Lahaina evacuees urged to vote in burn zone addresses. Lahaina residents whose homes were destroyed in the fire are still able to vote using their old address in the burn zone. (video only). Hawaii News Now.

Maui delegation connects with other fire-stricken counties at wildfire summit. Mayor Richard Bissen joined Maui’s state, county and community leaders at After the Fire USA’s 2024 Wildfire Leadership Summit last week in Sonoma, Calif. Together, they shared updates on Maui’s wildfire recovery efforts and gathered valuable insights from other jurisdictions affected by similar disasters. Maui Now.

Kauai

‘A huge moment’ for Kaua‘i reefs: Coral nursery coming to island with federal funding. A much-needed facility to protect coral reefs, one of the Hawaiian Islands’ most precious natural resources, will be built on Kaua‘i due to a recently awarded grant of nearly $200,000. Kauai Now.

Want to farm on the Garden Isle? AgXposure course still accepting applications on Kaua‘i.  Potential farmers on the Garden Isle have until Sept. 30 to submit applications to AgXposure, a month-long course introducing participants to the ins and outs of small-scale commercial farming. Kauai Now.

State audits DOE following teacher paycheck delays, Navy seeks increased training and bombing at Barking Sands, Hawaiian Electric stock drops 9.7% on $250M stock sale plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Paycheck delays prompt audit of DOE procedures. Following a grievance by the Hawaii State Teachers Association, the state Department of Education will conduct an audit and compensate over 500 teachers for financial losses due to delayed paychecks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric shares drop after $250M stock offering plan. Shares of Hawaiian Electric fell 9.7% Thursday after the parent company of the state’s largest utility said it plans to sell up to $250 million worth of shares to partly fund its portion of the Maui wildfire settlement. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines will soon notify staff about employment status following merger. Nonunion Hawaiian Airlines employees will learn, as soon as Friday, whether their positions will be retained through the company’s merger with Alaska Airlines. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tight labor force to weigh on Hawaii economy, especially Maui’s. University of Hawaii economists are warning that the statewide labor force likely will continue to lag pre-pandemic levels for several years, extending challenges for many employers. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Lawmaker To Pay $12,500 To Settle Ethics Commission Complaint. Rep. David Alcos was accused of failing to disclose millions of dollars in debts to various creditors including the IRS and the state Tax Department. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City details ‘restricted’ properties for Oahu’s next landfill. The Department of Environmental Services offered a list of potential future dump sites — located in West Oahu or on the North Shore — that are deemed restricted and unusable as all are in close proximity to potable well water, prime agricultural lands, residential areas, schools or hospitals, or a variety of each. Star-Advertiser.

Police chief pressured by mounting concerns over West Oahu violence. As communities in West Oahu continue to struggle with a surge in violent crimes, the Honolulu Police Commission is urging the chief of police to get more help from other law enforcement agencies. Hawaii News Now.

Input needed for new pool and recreation center in Kahuku. A public meeting is scheduled September 26 to gather input on designs for the project at Kahuku District Park. The meeting will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kahuku Elementary cafeteria. Hawaii News Now.

Downtown Honolulu office building transformed into residential units. A downtown Honolulu office building has been converted into residential housing, with the newly named 1060 Bishop offering studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units for rent.  KHON2.

Waianae Illegal Parties: Beyond The Silva Dome. Community members say events in venues without permits are common on the Westside, while the city says it cannot do much more than issue violations. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Big Island Voters Asked To Impose New Deadlines For Filling Top County Jobs. Mayor Mitch Roth opposes the charter change, saying it wouldn't allow enough time to search for the best department heads. Civil Beat.

Roth, Alameda debate issues at Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement convention. Hawaii island Mayor Mitch Roth and challenger Kimo Alameda shared their policy platforms Thursday at a Hawaii Island Mayoral Debate in advance of the marquee contest in the state’s coming general election. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Kilauea eruption intensifies along with hazards to park visitors. The eruption is taking place in and around Napau Crater in a remote wilderness area more than six miles from the closest road. Lava viewing is not possible, but the Park Service said lava glow outside of daylight hours may be viewable from open parking and pullouts along Chain of Craters Road. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Finally, a park for HPP? Meeting set to discuss county project; draft EA expected soon.  A long-discussed project to build a Hawaii County-operated park in Hawaiian Paradise Park will be reintroduced next month. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Maui

This Maui Board Was Created To Improve Transparency. Now It’s Accused Of Doing The Opposite. County Council members cite the Independent Nomination Board's failure to identify applicants and release meeting minutes. Civil Beat.

New ‘robust’ Hawaiian-Alaska airlines flies aircraft too big for Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi. While the combined airlines’ air routes give Hawaiʻi residents three times more travel options and ongoing inter-island service at current levels, this new “robust” air service will not, at least for the foreseeable future, include renewing direct air service to Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Kapalua or establishing air service to Hāna, said Joe Sprague, Hawaiian Airlines chief executive officer, who spoke online Wednesday with Neighbor Island journalists. Maui Now.

UHERO forecasts a lagging Maui recovery and slower overall Hawaiʻi growth. Maui’s economy will only gradually recover from its post-wildfire downturn while visitor industries in other counties across the state will continue to operate at high levels, according to the University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization’s third quarter forecast for 2024. Maui Now.

Kauai

U.S. Navy seeks public input on proposed increase in military training on Kauaʻi, uninhabited island. Officials with the U.S. Navy on Tuesday unveiled the draft environmental assessment of proposed plans at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauaʻi to significantly increase the amount of military training, bombing exercises and other activities, saying impacts would be minimal. Kauai Now.

Stretch of Kalalau Trail to reopen. A popular trail on the north side of the island is scheduled to partially reopen about two weeks after a virus sickened dozens of people and forced its closure. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Firefighters battle blaze at Powerhouse Road in Wainiha. A brush fire in the North Shore kept firefighters working overnight and into the day on Thursday. Garden Island.

Oahu business owner arrested in attempted Trump assassination, union files grievance over 500 unpaid teachers, state encourages students as construction projects top $10B, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Suspect in Trump assassination attempt lived in Hawaii. Oahu business owner Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, who was arrested Sunday in connection with an alleged attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in Florida was seen as a “rogue” player by some people he worked with in Hawaii to build tiny homes for homeless military veterans. Star-Advertiser. New York Times. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4. 

House Speaker Scott Saiki leaves a legacy of addressing hard issues. It will be left to history to reflect the role of outgoing House Speaker Scott Saiki in legalizing same-sex marriage, helping to steer the islands through the unprecedented COVID-19 epidemic and his response to political corruption in the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

HSTA files step 2 grievance with DOE more than 500 teachers remain unpaid. The Hawaii State Teachers Association said 533 public and charter school teachers have yet to receive their payments, which is up from the 377 teachers that were initially reported. KHON2.

More Hawaii Schools Are Offering Computer Science — But Are All Students Benefiting? The Hawaii Department of Education is now facing a state mandate from 2021 requiring all Hawaii schools to offer at least one computer science course by the end of the 2024-25 academic year.  Civil Beat.

Students encouraged to join construction industry debt-free. Construction in Hawaii is forecast to generate more than $10 billion over the next three to four years. There are currently 1,523 apprentices working in Hawaii, and 576 are between the ages of 18 to 24. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Prisons Are Getting New Scanners That Can Detect Drugs Without Opening Mail. The state agreed to purchase nine of the MailSecur machines for nearly $970,000. It plans to deploy them at eight in-state correctional facilities this fall, according to a statement from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

Pearl Harbor shipyard works on 3 top-class submarines. Four dry docks for ship and submarine maintenance exist at the facility. But one, dating to 1942, is too small and shallow to service Virginia-class subs that the Navy continues to procure as replacements for older Los Angeles-class subs in an effort to modernize more of the U.S. fleet, which includes about a dozen submarines home-ported at Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Kapiolani nurses vow to keep fighting after being ‘locked out’ post one-day strike amid contract disputes.   Kapiolani Medical Center has locked out its nurses after their one-day strike concluded Saturday morning. About 600 nurses, represented by the Hawaii Nurses Association, attempted to return after the strike ended at 6:59 a.m. Hawaii News Now.

Rental housing tower for DHHL beneficiaries ready to rise. The $154 million project, dubbed Hale Moiliili, will provide 278 units for state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries. Star-Advertiser.

HFD contain 50% of Waialua brush fire. Honolulu firefighters are responding to a brush fire in Kalaeloa Sunday afternoon. The initial alarm came in just before 12:30 p.m. near Coral Sea and Ranger roads.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

‘Day of Aloha’ observed in memory of Twinkle Borge.  State and city officials joined the Waianae community Sunday, which would have been Twinkle Borge’s birthday, at Pu‘uhonua o Wai‘anae Farm Village for a memorial service honoring her and dedicating the day as a “Day of Aloha.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kilauea Volcano Alert Level Raised To WATCH. Despite an infrasound signal typical of gas or steam venting, and seismometers recording low frequency tremor, visual evidence of eruptive activity has yet to be seen. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i’s only commercial dairy farm faces potential lawsuit for alleged milk, manure discharge into Big Island’s waterways. The law offices of Charles Tebbutt, representing the Center for Food Safety, sent a letter saying it intends to initiate a citizen’s suit in Hawaiʻi Federal District Court against Cloverleaf Dairy in Hawi, which is owned by Boteilho Hawai‘i Enterprises.  Big Island Now.

Native Hawaiian convention slated this week. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, or CNHA, is bringing its 2024 Native Hawaiian Convention to the Hilton Waikoloa Village from Tuesday through Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Hurricane Hone ended most of the island’s drought. One effect of Hurricane Hone’s passage to the south of the Big Island late last month was to take almost all of the island out of drought conditions. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hawaii wildfire victims made it just blocks before becoming trapped by flames, report says. Of the 102 people who lost their lives during the August 2023 wildfires in Lahaina, 80% died in the central part of the town, according to a report released Friday by the Hawaii Attorney General’s office. Associated Press.

Deadly Devastation From The Lahaina Fire Was ‘Years In The Making’. State, county and community inaction including years of ignoring the dangers posed by wildfire made the Aug. 8 fire that destroyed Lahaina worse than it should have been. That is the overwhelming message of the Hawaii Attorney General’s “Lahaina Fire Incident Analysis Report,” the second of a three-part investigation into the Lahaina fires that killed 102 people and destroyed more than 2,200 buildings last year.  Civil Beat. Associated Press.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Fire intensifies Lahaina community’s push for bypass extension. Fire survivor Shayne Kahahane said many in the community want a finished Lahaina Bypass, and believe that its completion would have saved some of the 102 people who died during the Aug. 8, 2023, fire. Star-Advertiser.

Lahaina fire leads to disappearing tourism jobs, desperately needed construction workers. Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawai‘i Economic Research Organization and professor of economics, said as of July, there are about 5,100 construction jobs on Maui, an increase of 400 or 8.9% from a year ago. Maui Now.

Maui’s housing crisis persists with building barriers worsened by the wildfires. Maui residents have been experiencing a massive housing shortage. Some might say, “Just build more houses.” However, it’s not that simple. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Navy hosts environmental assessment open house. The U.S. Navy will be hosting a meeting/open house on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Kauai Veterans Center located on Veterans Memorial Highway adjacent to the Vidinha Stadium. Garden Island.

Some hikers blame ‘rancid’ toilet facilities for norovirus outbreak on Kalalau Trail on Kauaʻi.  As the Hawaiʻi State Department of Land and Natural Resources continues with its survey to determine the cause of the norovirus outbreak that has affected at least 50 visitors on the Kalalau Trail along the Nāpali Coast on Kauaʻi, some are blaming the virus on the state’s facilities that they say are unsanitary.  Kauai Now.

Selection process for judges on November ballot, Honolulu Emergency Management director resigns, new plan tackles misinformation during volcanic eruptions, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Proposed Ballot Question Would Streamline Selection Of Judges And Justices. Hawaii voters will be asked to consider a proposed constitutional amendment on the Nov. 5 ballot aimed at clearing up the process of nominating state judges and justices so that it is more efficient and uniform. Civil Beat.

Hawaii condo owners starting to feel insurance rates increase. Many condo and townhouse owners are starting to pay up for the increased maintenance fees due to skyrocketing insurance costs. KHON2.

‘Stranded’: Hawaii parents frustrated over school bus shortage. More than a month into the school year and the school bus shortage still has not been resolved. Hawaii News Now.

Tokuda reads names of Maui victims into Congressional record. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda used her 5-minute opportunity to address the House today by honoring the 102 victims and the two people missing from the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires by reading all of their names into the Congressional record. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. KHON2.

Oahu

City's top Emergency Management Official resigns for role in California. Hiro Toiya, who serves as Director of the city's Emergency Management Department, is stepping down and leaving for a new job in Northern California. KITV4.

Council OKs $3M flood study of Wailupe Stream. The Wailupe Stream is the last major valley stream in East Honolulu that’s not fully lined with concrete — one of 10 such streams that drains its watershed into the roughly 7-mile-long Maunalua Bay. Star-Advertiser.

This Mililani Company Packages Salt From The Mainland And Sells It As Hawaiian. Is That Cheating? Hawaii's commercial salt producers say bulk salt shipped in from elsewhere and sold as 'Made in Hawaii' is hurting their business. Civil Beat.

Deadline nears to apply for Oʻahu property tax exemption. The City and County of Honolulu is offering significant property tax relief this year, but homeowners have to apply by the end of the month.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Despite 2021 threat, police chose not to arrest suspect accused in deadly Waianae shooting. The man who shot five neighbors and killed three of them threatened the family three years before — but was not arrested. Hawaii News Now.

Kapiolani hospital and nurses union set to meet in last ditch effort to avoid strike. There’s a last ditch effort to avoid a potential strike Friday and a rare lockout of hundreds of nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center. Both sides are set to meet Thursday and part of the issue is claims of retaliation over complaints about unsafe staffing. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Nearly three-month closure lifted after landslide on Tantalus Drive. After rocks, mud and trees came tumbling down nearly 3 months ago, Tantalus Drive is now back open.The City closed the section of the road just before it turns into Round Top Drive on June 25. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County Charter Proposal Would Fill Some Council Vacancies Quicker. The ballot measure would allow a candidate who wins a seat in the primary to take office early when there is a vacancy. Civil Beat.

New interagency plan tackles misinformation during volcanic eruptions. When an eruption occurs on Hawaiʻi Island, a coordinated team from the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency, and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park quickly assembles to respond. Hawaii Public Radio.

Work to reconstruct section of Highway 137 in lower Puna will begin later this month. Hawaii County announced Tuesday it’s ready to reconstruct a 3.64-mile section of Highway 137 in lower Puna, between the makai end of Pohoiki Road and the intersection of Highway 132 — also known as “Four Corners.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Whistleblower Lawsuit Could Cost Taxpayers Up To $450,000. Former mayoral aide Chris Salem, who was fired, alleges a range of wrongful behavior by county officials in a lawsuit filed three years ago. A Maui County Council committee has voted in favor of paying as much as $450,000 to a Honolulu law firm to defend the county against allegations of wrongful termination and government corruption by a former mayoral aide. Civil Beat.

Baldwin Beach Park finally collapses. What now? Community members await dune restoration efforts at Baldwin Beach Park after collapsed pavilion. Maui News.

Maui community invited to review nearshore management proposal. Maui residents are encouraged to attend one of three upcoming information exchange sessions to provide feedback on managing Maui’s nearshore waters.  Maui News.

Kauai

Renovations to refuse transfer stations to begin starting with Līhu‘e location. The work is part of the Island-wide Refuse Transfer Station Improvements project, which also targets stations in Hanalei, Kapa‘a and Hanapēpē. Lihue Refuse Transfer Station shuttered for renovations. During the renovation work, the Lihue RTS will be closed from Sept. 11 to Nov. 2. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Entire Kalalau Trail section closed. The closure could last until at least Sept. 19. In the meantime, the Kalalau Trailhead will be manned by law enforcement personnel 24 hours a day, seven days a week to prevent entrance onto the popular trail. Garden Island.

Same-sex marriage protection on November ballot, $35M project could reopen Waikiki Natatorium, Bissen heads to California wildfire conference, we're still the happiest state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Voters Asked To Ensure Protection Of Same-Sex Marriage. A proposed constitutional amendment calls for repealing lawmakers' authority over gender and matrimony. Civil Beat.

$18M headed to Hawai‘i to make buildings more energy efficient, lower bills, combat climate change. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced Hawai‘i will receive $18.1 million in federal funding to adopt a building performance standard for energy efficiency in commercial buildings.  Maui Now.

Some Hawaii Nonprofits May Get Good Financial News From OHA After Delay. Trustees for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs are being asked to approve nearly $3 million in funding for nonprofits that was delayed in May amid concerns the money was not being equitably distributed. Civil Beat.

Pacific Islanders Are Often Left Out Of Medical Studies. This Team Wants To Change That. The University of Hawaii is participating in a national study of gaps in health research for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. Civil Beat.

High School Surfing Is A Thing In Hawaii, But Not As Much As You Might Think. Schools have struggled to start official teams with limited funding and no recognition from local athletic leagues. Civil Beat.

Hawaii trafficking charges part of case against arrested Philippine mega-church pastor. Philippine televangelist Apollo Quiboloy, accused of human trafficking and sex assault — including in Hawaii, was arrested this weekend in the Philippines after a two week stand-off between law enforcement and his followers. Hawaii News Now.

Study: Hawaii ranks #1 as happiest state in America. Lucky we live in Hawaii! A new 2024 study revealed that the Aloha state has been ranked the “Happiest State in the Nation.” KHON2.

Oahu

State eyes takeover of struggling affordable condo project in Kakaako. A state agency that helped finance the project called The Block 803 Waimanu is considering foreclosure against the developer after financial difficulties stemming from 61 unsold units in the 153-unit complex despite prices as low as $276,102 for a studio.  Star-Advertiser.

City, nonprofit aims to reopen shuttered Waikiki natatorium after 40 years. More than 40 years after a Waikiki natatorium was deemed unsafe and closed, a $35 million project aims to reopen the gates for public swimming. Hawaii News Now.

West Oahu refinery seeks to develop plant-based biofuels. PAR Hawaii Refining LLC proposes that part of its 151.4-acre facility in Kapolei produce low-carbon-­emission, plant-based biofuels, including renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel and renewable liquefied petroleum gas, among others. Star-Advertiser.

Iwilei autopsy facility re-opens after $5.9M transformation. After completing nearly $6 million in renovations, the Department of the Medical Examiner received a modern look for its Iwilei headquarters. KHON2.

City launches rock slide mitigation project to enhance safety on Pacific Heights Road. The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Design and Construction will begin rock slide mitigation work on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024 for the lower portion of Pacific Heights Road. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Cesspool Closures In Naʻalehu Examined In Draft EA. The County of Hawaiʻi must close three large capacity cesspools that serve approximately 164 private residences in Naʻalehu. Big Island Video News. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Island Forest Reserve Fencing Projects Planned. Three draft environmental assessments have been published for fenceline and access projects in the Kaʻū and Upper Waiakea Forest Reserves, as well as the Manukā Natural Area Reserve. Big Island Video News.

NOAA ship ‘has a special mission’: Reporters get closer look at Okeanos Explorer. A vessel dedicated to exploring the unknown parts of the ocean is docked this week at the Port of Hilo for the first time as the crew and scientists prepare for the next part of their expedition. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Richard Bissen to travel out of state for wildfire summit. Mayor Bissen, along with County of Maui Managing Director Josiah Nishita and other County staff, will travel to California to attend the After the Fire USA 2024 Wildfire Leadership Summit. Maui News.

Feds Partner With Maui Groups To Develop An Energy Plan For Lahaina. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is working with three local organizations. When efforts to clean up debris from the fire that leveled much of Lahaina in August 2023 were still in the early stages, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory sent a team to Maui to better understand what happened and to eventually help create a sustainable energy plan for the rebuilding of the historic town. Civil Beat.

EPA’s Maui Wildfire Emergency Response Team awarded government service equivalent of an ‘Oscar’. Pete Guria, Steve Calanog, Tara Fitzgerald of the Environmental Protection Agency (San Francisco) directed more than 300 EPA personnel to remove tons of hazardous materials from the Maui wildfires while respecting local cultural norms and setting standards for federal response teams that followed.   Maui Now.

County declares Stage 1 water shortage for Central and South Maui. A water shortage is underway on Maui, and county officials are calling for conservation measures. The Department of Water Supply has declared a Stage 1 water shortage for the Central Maui System. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Officials highlight cesspool conversion funding for Kaua‘i homeowners already feeling the pinch.  The Kaua‘i County Residential Cesspool Conversion Grant Program will divide $2 million among 100 qualifying homeowners ($20,000 per household). Kauai Now.

New faces coming to state Legislature, Honolulu city council already set, HART CEO gets 22% raise, cell tower battles in two counties, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature to see 11 new faces even before November election. The state House and Senate will welcome at least 11 new faces for the next legislative session, even before the Nov. 5 general election, which could result in more incumbent upsets. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: The FBI Continues To Stall On Releasing Hawaii Lawmakers’ Bribery Investigations. Former state lawmakers Ty Cullen and J. Kalani English pleaded guilty more than two years ago to taking cash bribes in exchange for swaying legislation to favor Honolulu businessman Milton Choy, who owned a wastewater disposal company. Civil Beat has been trying to get the investigative files on public officials convicted of bribery for more than a year. Civil Beat.

California, Hawaii can ban guns in bars and parks, appeals court rules. Court ruling supports Hawaii gun restrictions. State Attorney General Anne Lopez hailed a ruling of a panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that Lopez said reinstates restrictions on where people can carry firearms in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.

Waianae Shootings May Spur A Push To Strengthen Hawaii’s Self-Defense Laws. Some lawmakers want to amend the state law on use of deadly force for self-protection, but a key senator says that's unnecessary. Civil Beat.

Oahu

No contested Honolulu city races on general election ballot. All of the contested city races — namely, elections for mayor and City Council — were decided during the Aug. 10 primary election. Star-Advertiser.

HART OKs 22% raise for CEO Kahikina to a $336,000 annual contract. The board of directors for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on Friday approved a new contract with a 22% raise for Executive Director and CEO Lori Kahikina to oversee completion of the nearly $10 billion Skyline. Star-Advertiser.

‘It Smells Like Earth’: Honolulu Shows Off Its Alternatives To Landfills. An end-of-year deadline looms for Honolulu officials to name a location for a new municipal landfill. Meanwhile, the city is working to divert waste from needing to go to the disposal site in the first place. Civil Beat.

Kapi‘olani nurses seek injunction to block lockout. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association/Office and Professional Employees International Union Local 50 is seeking an injunction to stop Kapi‘olani Medical Center from locking unionized nurses out of the hospital following a planned one-day strike, the union’s second this year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Oahu housing market steady ahead of possible demand increase. According to data released Friday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors, sales and prices ticked up for single-­family homes and down for condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

Ewa Beach to get first hotel. Alaka‘i Development has secured $135 million in financing and is on its way to delivering Ewa Beach’s first hotel: a dual-branded Hyatt Place and extended-stay Hyatt House for the Ho‘opili master-­planned community. Star-Advertiser.

Turtle Bay resort expansion proceeding under new owners. Arete Collective recently hosted an “open house” in Kahuku to share its plan with community members and gather feedback on what its chief executive described as an eight- to 10-year project slated to begin later this year with 20 homes in four buildings between the beach and the 18th hole of the resort’s Arnold Palmer Golf Course. Star-Advertiser.

St. Francis Healthcare pensions face chopping block. Almost all private retirement plans are required to comply with federal pension and tax laws, according to the Pension Rights Center, a nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., with the exception of church pension plans. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County buys refrigerated containers to store bodies; Morgue at Hilo hospital is overcapacity. Hawaii County has purchased two 40-foot refrigerated containers and is exploring the possibility of an emergency proclamation to start using them as a temporary storage facility for the bodies of decedents whose deaths occurred somewhere other than Hilo Benioff Medical Center. Tribune-Herald.

Changes eyed for cell towers: Proposals would alter the approval process. Cell towers on the Big Island could be installed without a Hawaii County permit under a proposed new policy. Tribune-Herald.

2 Keaukaha projects rejected: Planning commission sides with area residents. The Windward Planning Commission on Thursday considered a pair of applications for special management area use permits to build housing in Keaukaha near Onekahakaha Road. Tribune-Herald.

Public advised to avoid affected waters following sewage spill at Kailua-Kona Pier. On Sunday, September 8, 2024, it was reported that a sewage spill had occurred at the Kailua Kona Pier. Officials state that an unknown amount of sewage had spilled from a restroom and onto the pier, which entered the ocean.  KITV4. Big Island Video News.

NOAA research ship docks in Hilo: Okeanos Explorer to host events throughout week. The team on board — Shannon Hoy, Anna Coulson, Mark Durbin and Caitlin Ruby — just finished conducting 24-hour-a-day exploratory seafloor mapping operations of the atoll’s deep waters for 20 days before traveling to Hilo this past Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui’s toxic debris could fill 5 football fields 5 stories deep. Where will it end up? The temporary landfill in Olowalu is a former quarry on state-owned land and close to Lahaina, which made it a convenient choice for quickly storing the debris being cleared away so the town can rebuild. Associated Press.

End of an era? Lahaina fire delivers big blow to already declining commercial fishing industry. On Aug. 27, following a request for an update on the harbor work, officials from the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation said the harbor has been cleared of debris and pilings and was expected to be operational in two-plus years, but did not provide more details. Maui Now.

County of Maui acquires Kula community center land for $950,000 for ‘public use in perpetuity’. The County of Maui has acquired approximately seven acres of land beneath the Kula community center and adjacent facilities for “public use in perpetuity,” according to a press release announcing the acquisition. The county has leased the land for over six decades.  Maui News.

Feds Partner With Maui Groups To Develop An Energy Plan For Lahaina. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is working with three local organizations. Civil Beat.

AES launches state’s largest solar power facility on Maui. The Central Maui project is a key part of Hawaii’s aggressive 2045 Clean Energy Initiative goals as well as AES’ own 2040 goal of net zero carbon emissions from electricity sales. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Kauai

Haʻena residents file lawsuit against proposed 5G cell tower. In a continuing effort to stop the construction of a 95-foot tall 5G cell tower in their neighborhood, two Haʻena couples have filed a lawsuit against the California-based property owner who is leasing the vacant lot to AT&T. Kauai Now.

A Stomach Bug Outbreak Brings Uncomfortable Scrutiny To One Of Hawaii’s Most Beautiful Places. Some of the campers who endured the recent norovirus outbreak at the end of Kauai’s famed Kalalau Trail hope the unusual incident, which sickened dozens of people, will lead to better state upkeep of one of the most scenic destinations in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Lahaina hosts congressional hearing on federal wildfire response, Honolulu council seeks more water testing, Hawaii Gas asked to release emissions reports, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Congressional hearing in Lahaina examines federal response. Select members of the U.S. House Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce held the hearing Wednesday to assess what has been done well and perhaps not as well to help Maui recover from the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfires that killed 102 people and destroyed most of Lahaina town. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4. Civil Beat.

DARPA sheds light on peculiar drone spotted off Hawaii. Officials with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) have confirmed that the unmanned drone spotted off Waikiki on Friday, Aug. 30 is designed for energy-harvesting. KHON2.

Local environmental group calls on Hawaiʻi Gas to release emissions data. Life of the Land has intervened in Hawaiʻi Gas' rate case before the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission.  Hawaii Public Radio.

New report: ‘Power Pivot — Transitioning Hawaiʻi Gasoline Superusers to Electric Vehicles’. Released by Ulupono Initiative and Coltura, the paper focuses on these superusers, which account for approximately 65,000, or 6.8%, of the state’s drivers. The superusers have extensive and costly driving habits, often exceeding 40,000 miles annually, compared to the non-superusers average of 8,500 miles annually. Collectively, these superusers consume nearly 26% of Hawaiʻi’s gasoline. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi chief economist shares insights from decades of data collection. Hawaiʻi Chief Economist Eugene Tian gave us the context of the 1,187-page Data Book, which the state has been compiling every year for about 60 years.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Council OKs resolution for more water testing. The Honolulu City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday urging the Navy and Department of Defense to immediately implement weekly testing of monitoring wells related to past fuel spills at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility.  Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

HART Scrambles To Free Up Cash For Rail’s Push Into The City Center. Other work may be delayed because a $1.66 billion bid was $300 million more than the rail authority had budgeted. Civil Beat.

Kapi‘olani threatens lockout of union nurses. Management at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children on Wednesday said after receiving a second strike notice from the nurses union, it is prepared to impose a lockout. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

Waianae attacker threatened to shoot his victims’ family twice before, an attorney says. The 59-year-old man fatally shot Saturday night after he rammed his neighbor’s home with a front loader and shot and killed three women had threatened gun violence against his victims’ family twice before, an attorney representing a family member says. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Authorities seize 42 gambling machines in suspected game room raid in Makiki. Officers seized 42 gambling machines and thousands of dollars in cash in a game room raid in Makiki Wednesday evening, according to Honolulu police officials. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ohana housing bill advances: Council bill would create more options for ‘accessory dwelling units’.  Bill 123 is one of several measures discussed by the council this year aimed at updating rules regarding short-term vacation rentals. Tribune-Herald.

4 Big Island men charged with illegally taking lobsters. The men, all divers, were cited for misdemeanor violations with the taking of female lobsters and eggs — which are known as roe — after DLNR officers conducted an inspection on the vessel Law and Disorder III upon its return to its slip at Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

UH Maui Wildfire Study gets $2.3M to build comprehensive survivor registry. The University of Hawaiʻi’s Maui Wildfire Exposure Study has received a boost of funding from the state. The additional $2.3 million will allow the study to increase its participant base to 2,000 individuals, focusing on children and first responders. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui News.

Kula Community Association to host Candidate Forum, Sept. 11. This event will feature candidates running for Senate, House, and Maui County Council offices covering nine races. The event offers a platform for candidates to present their views and respond to questions. Maui Now.

60 refurbished computers distributed by MEO at no cost to recipients.  For some, the refurbished laptop given to them at no cost was their first computer. For others, the laptops replaced ones burned in the wildfires. Maui Now.

Kauai

Dozens of campers fall ill to suspected norovirus, Kalalau Valley closed. Kalalau Valley is a popular camping destination off the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kaua‘i. At full capacity, the campsite accommodates up to 80 people. With the nearest restrooms being closed to the public, campers said available restrooms were about a quarter mile down the beach. KHON2.

‘A guiding light for our keiki:’ Youth development program Kaua‘i Sea Scouts celebrates 15 years. The Kaua‘i Sea Scouts is a youth development program founded in 2009 by father-and-son team Larry and Max Richardson.  Kauai Now.

4.5k units get building exemptions under emergency proclamation, Mallory named Deputy Adjutant General, state has no 'stand your ground' law to protect man who shot Waianae attacker, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brig. Gen. Phillip Mallory Named Next Deputy Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. Mallory, currently the commander of the 154th Wing, Hawaiʻi Air National Guard, will succeed Brig. Gen. Stephen Logan on October 1st. Big Island Video News. Maui Now.

4,500 affordable residential units secure building exemptions under emergency proclamation. Nine affordable housing projects, decided by the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance & Development Corporation director, have received building exemptions through the governor’s proclamation.So far, over 4,500 units on Oʻahu, Kauaʻi and Maui have received building exemptions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Thousands of local hotel workers begin strike after talks stall with top chains. Strike lines are up at eight Hawaiʻi hotels — seven on Oʻahu and one on Kauaʻi.  Hawaii Public Radio. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu businesswoman Kim Coco Iwamoto is shaking up Hawaii politics. Video Only. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

State law required arrest of Waianae attacker’s killer, HPD Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan says. Responding to questions about why the man who stopped his neighbor’s deadly rampage was arrested, Logan spoke generally about self-defense, saying Hawaii is not a “stand-your-ground state.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

‘Silva dome’ linked to attacker in Waianae was unpermitted. The city Department of Planning and Permitting has investigated at least 20 community complaints over the past two decades related to the house involved in Saturday’s Waianae Valley Road shooting. Star-Advertiser.

Some Small Businesses In Kailua Town Are Closing As Costs Continue To Climb. Restaurateurs say the challenges they face are more complex than simply high rents. Civil Beat.

City rolls out CORE bus to curb Honolulu homelessness. CORE workers will drive the bus to encampments, parks, beaches and surrounding areas to identify, evaluate and transport the unsheltered to the city’s Leahi or Aala respite center and shelter, when homeless people agree to accept such help, city officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Kapi‘olani nurses give notice of planned 1-day strike. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association on Tuesday filed 10 days’ notice that its 600 nurses at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women &Children will strike again Sept. 13. It would be a one-day strike on a Friday.  Star-Advertiser.

DLNR reports 14 hikers arrested at Haiku Stairs. The 14 hikers were arrested by Honolulu police over the past six days, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. All face criminal trespassing charges. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

New call center fails inspection. The long-delayed opening of the Hawaii County Emergency Call Center has been pushed back once again because the facility on July 29 failed a building inspection. Tribune-Herald.

Roadside vendors bill stalls. A County Council committee on Tuesday once again postponed a decision about Bill 184, which would establish a process for people to apply for a permit to sell wares on county roads, after council members raised several more questions about how the process would work. Tribune-Herald.

New NAS Swimming Pool facility opens to the public. After more than four years, the Hilo pool reopened Tuesday morning after a quick ceremony and blessing followed by recreational swimming time. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

HCF, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez donate $2.128M to purchase fire trucks for the Maui County Fire Department. The Hawai‘i Community Foundation announced the award of $2.128 million to the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation, to be used for the purchase of four new fire trucks for the Maui Fire Department.  Maui Now.

Climate Advocates Want Tourists To Rent Electric Vehicles. Maui Shows Why That’s Hard. Transitioning rental car fleets to EVs could help the state meet its ambitious energy goals, but "range anxiety" leaves customers concerned about making it around the island. Civil Beat.

Mandatory water restriction in place for Central Maui residents. According to BWS officials, under a stage one shortage declared Tuesday, residents and businesses in 11 areas are only allowed to irrigate their properties two days a week. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Organizers push for public shoreline access in West Maui, removal of beachfront condos. A legal battle is brewing over an effort to save beachfront condos in West Maui that were built in the '70s and are now threatened by erosion. KITV4.

Kauai

Suspected norovirus among 24 campers results in closure of popular Kaua‘i trail. The Kalalau Section of the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kaua‘i is closed after an illness, suspected to be the norovirus, has made numerous campers ill. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Immediate water conservation request issued for Princeville area customers. The order was issued by Princeville Utilities Co. Inc. Additionally, the Kaua‘i County Department of Water is asking its customers located on Anini Road, Kalihiwai Valley Estates and a portion of Kuhio Highway, near Hanalei Plantation Road, to abide by the conservation request. Kauai Now.