Advocates seek more transparency with change of House leadership, child welfare, prison system need help, snake found in Christmas tree shipment, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Advocacy groups seek to change how bills move through the House. The state House of Representatives has a new leadership team with Rep. Nadine Nakamura becoming the new speaker of the House. Because of the changes, advocacy groups are expanding efforts to change the rules in the House that they say will increase transparency. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s Child Welfare System Needs Major Reform, Report Says. A panel created to propose reforms to Hawaii’s child welfare system has described an array of troubling defects in the system, and its draft report calls for a surge in government support for disadvantaged families so fewer children will be removed from their homes. Civil Beat.

‘Inmates are running the facility’ prison sources warn public safety is at risk. The climate inside Hawaii’s correctional facilities is at a tipping point with inmates running the show and guards overworked and underpaid.  KHON2.

Top booster cuts university funding over athletics director Craig Angelos' ouster. Longtime UH supporter and businessman Mike Kawazoe founded the Rainbow Collective in April of last year as a way to raise funds for the department and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) money for student-athletes.  Hawaii News Now.

New Feral Cat Colony Map Could Save Hawaii’s Native Birds — But It’s Secret. The crowd-sourced map, which hasn't been made public yet, is bound to rankle many locals who regularly feed and care for free-roaming cats. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Appoints New Housing Director. Kevin Auger became the Honolulu Office of Housing’s executive director this week, stepping up from his prior role as deputy director to lead the city’s efforts to acquire, build and preserve more housing as many residents struggle with high prices. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Home Lands pursues Royal Kunia housing plan. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wants to buy 211 acres approved for housing in Kunia for about $60 million from developer Haseko (Hawaii) Inc. with a preliminary development agreement to produce 1,200 residential lots for beneficiaries, including 500 lots in an initial increment where infrastructure already exists. Star-Advertiser.

City considers task force to explore merger of fire, emergency services. Staff shortages at Honolulu Emergency Medical Services are once again bringing up the idea of a merger with the Honolulu Fire Department. A resolution to study and create a plan passed the Honolulu City Council’s Public Safety Committee on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

West Side crackdown is reducing crime. Crime is down on the West Side during the three months since a spate of deadly shootings prompted county, state and federal officials to inundate the Waianae coast with law enforcement. Star-Advertiser.

911 outage caused by Hawaiian Telcom equipment issue. Hawaiian Telcom confirmed Wednesday that equipment failure caused Sunday’s 911 outage on Oahu. Most cell phones were blocked from reaching police dispatchers for about four hours. Hawaii News Now.

City plan to remove changing areas in Waimanalo Beach Park draws criticism. At Waimanalo Beach Park, the city plans to demolish two rundown comfort stations as part of a multimillion-dollar renovation project and install new prefabricated structures with individual, unisex bathroom stalls. The change would eliminate separate changing areas for men and women. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

New Mayor, Council To Be Sworn-In On December 2nd In Kona.  Mayor-elect Kimo Alameda, Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen, and the newly elected County Council will take part in the inauguration event. Big Island Video News.

Thumbs down for Kona Vistas. A 10-year extension for a controversial West Hawaii housing development to complete construction has once again been rejected, this time by the Hawaii County Council on Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

More than $1.2M in PONC funds awarded to nonprofits. The county’s Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission identifies lands around the county worthy of preservation and recommends grant funding to nonprofits to continue to steward those parcels. Tribune-Herald.

Live snake found in container of Christmas trees in Hilo.  State officials say a live snake was found in a container of Christmas trees as it was being unloaded for a store in Hilo over the weekend. HDOA has identified the 2-foot-long reptile as a non-venomous gopher snake. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Maui

Federal Officials Pressed On Maui Recovery Efforts. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz took part in the Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on national disaster needs. Big Island Video News.

Lawsuit filed to change Maui’s street lighting citing its effect on endangered birds. Environmental groups have filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Honolulu against Maui County and Hawaiian Electric to change the kind of street lighting on the Valley Isle that allegedly impairs the navigation of three bird species. Maui News. KITV4.

Survey asks children’s preference for rebuilding King Kamehameha III Elementary while focusing on 2 sites. Civic engagement in Lahaina remained strong Tuesday evening, with about 100 community members and staff gathering to discuss potential sites for King Kamehameha III Elementary School’s permanent location. Maui News. Maui Now.

Maui Invitational Returns To Lahaina As Post-Fire Emotions Are Still Raw. Many residents are excited about the economic boost the tournament will bring. But concerns also are high that visitors might show disrespect. Associated Press.

Kauai

Kapa‘a Swimming Pool to be temporarily closed in December. The Kaua‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation announced that Kapa‘a Swimming Pool will be shuttered from Dec. 1-16 so contractor Pacific Concrete, Cutting & Coring can repair the pool’s concrete deck. Kauai Now.

Locals-only discounts coming to Hawaiian Airlines, state DOT seeks young people for climate board, Honolulu mulls plastic bottle ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines to offer locals-only discounts. Starting next year, kamaaina can save money on neighbor island airfares through Huaka‘i by Hawaiian, a new permanent travel benefits program for locals launched following Hawaiian Airlines’ combination with Alaska Airlines.  Star-Advertiser.

Transportation Department seeking young people to serve on climate council. The creation of council is one of the terms that the state agreed to in a historic climate settlement this summer after a group of young plaintiffs sued the department to push for more climate action.  The youth council will advise the DOT as it works to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Looks At New Lots To Reduce Waitlist. More than 200,000 acres on all the major islands have set aside for Indigenous use, but most of those lots can’t be developed because they’re too far from roads, sewers, electric lines and broadband or are impossible to traverse, such as cliffsides and other mountainous areas. Civil Beat.

Gov. Josh Green calls Kennedy’s choice as HHS leader ‘insane’.  Green — the only sitting governor who is also a medical doctor — described the decision as “gross malpractice” and warned that Kennedy’s appointment “will do incredible harm if he’s the director of Health and Human Services.” Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard’s sympathetic views toward Russia cause alarm as Trump’s pick to lead intelligence services. Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to lead the U.S. intelligence services, in 2022 endorsed one of Russia’s main justifications for invading Ukraine: the existence of dozens of U.S.-funded biolabs working on some of the world’s nastiest pathogens. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu lawmakers mull ban on sale of plastic bottles on city properties. Bill 59, as drafted, states no single-use plastic bottles one liter in size or less may be “purchased, sold, or offered for sale for use at any city facility, city-authorized concession, city-sponsored or city-permitted event, or city program.” Star-Advertiser.

Plans For Hawaii’s First Public Teacher Housing Complex Face Backlash. A first-of-its-kind project would create over 100 units of affordable housing on Mililani High School's campus, but some teachers and families say the planning process needs more community input. Civil Beat.

City hosts workshops over Ala Wai bridge. The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services will host two public workshop meetings this week regarding the planned design and construction of the $63.3 million Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge. Star-Advertiser.

DOH warns of possible avian flu exposure at Mililani Pet Fair. The Hawaii Department of Health issued a warning Sunday that members of the public who attended the Mililani Pet Fair held on Nov. 2 may have been exposed to H5N1 avian influenza, which recently was confirmed in a backyard flock of various birds in Central Oahu. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

HART wants 26% budget increase for fiscal year ’26. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's combined budgets, which total over $968.3 million and would take effect July 1, show marked increases to debt service on the project’s loans as well as increased labor costs for the nearly $10 billion Skyline construction. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu 911 system restored for mobile carriers. The system went down for some mobile carriers, including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, and anyone needing emergency service would have to use a landline. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Overnight ambassadors help reduce Waikiki homelessness. The expanded beach closure hours augment Safe & Sound Waikiki, a crime reduction and human services program that began in September 2022, coinciding with the start of the Waikiki Business Improvement District’s overnight ambassador program that assigns two safety “ambassadors” and a human services outreach coordinator to an overnight patrol to uphold park rules, guiding individuals toward safer behaviors and resources. Star-Advertiser.

Historic Chinatown building is turned into affordable housing. The $30 million conversion of the historic Hocking Building on a corner of North King Street and Nuuanu Avenue includes 40 apartments with monthly rent as low as $731, meeting space for the Downtown-Chinatown Neighborhood Board and office space for the nonprofit Institute for Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Kupuna at Kahala luxury retirement complex express grievances. About two-thirds of the community’s independent residents recently expressed alarm in a letter to the chief executive and board of the nonprofit that owns and operates Kahala Nui over how to pay for buying the land under the complex while also pursuing development of a second retirement complex. Star-Advertiser.

Students connect to heritage as Filipino studies begin. In spring 2025 the one-­semester course will be taught at McKinley High School, DreamHouse ‘Ewa Beach and Maryknoll School. The fall 2025 semester will include Leilehua High and James Campbell High, according to the DOE. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

New County Council Leadership Announced: Inaba As Chair, Onishi Vice Chair. The council leadership says it will prioritize a strong partnership with Mayor-elect Kimo Alameda and his administration. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

County provides update on Highway 137. At the first of a planned series of monthly community briefings about the ongoing project to reopen a 3.64-mile stretch of Highway 137 in lower Puna, Department of Public Works spokeswoman Sherise Kanae-Kane said the work is still on track to be completed by March 2026. Tribune-Herald.

The humpback whales are coming: Tour company spots one off Kona Coast. Hawaiian Adventures Kona on Saturday encountered their first humpback whale sighting of the season. Big Island Now.

Maui

State gets $10M grant to save West Maui reefs. A nearly $10 million federal grant to the state will restore habitat from “summit-to-sea,” with the goal of saving West Maui reefs. Star-Advertiser.

There's more FEMA housing for Lahaina fire survivors, but they'll have to pay rent soon. A Federal Emergency Management Agency modular home site in Lahaina called Kilohana will be ready to house residents Friday.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Why a $4 billion settlement of Maui fire claims is tangled up in court. Getting a deal done quickly meant adopting an unorthodox approach to the insurance industry’s role in the settlement — one that the industry is challenging. Now, hopes for a timely payout are at the mercy of the courts. New York Times.

Settlement negotiations underway in wrongful death lawsuit from 2023 police shooting. More than a year and a half after a Molokai man died in a police shooting on April 30, 2023, a civil lawsuit filed by his family might be headed for a settlement. Maui News.

Lahaina neighborhood watch, checkpoints prevent looting, disaster tourism. The program’s primary purpose is to prevent looting, mostly of building materials and tools left overnight. But it also has been to prevent a phenomenon known as disaster tourism, where visitors gawk and take pictures of destruction for social media. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami eyes state Capitol office after term ends. Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami seems to have his sights set on running for a position at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol after he terms out in 2026.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Meeting about Wailua Bay shoreline mitigation set for Thursday. For the past four months the Surfrider Foundation Kauaʻi Chapter has been opposing the implementation of “sand savers,” the last of three parts of the Kūhiō Highway Emergency Shoreline Mitigation Project for Wailua Bay. Kauai Now.

Concern for albatross as military proposes increased training on Kaʻula off Niʻihau. The Navy said it received some 1,800 pieces of testimony during the public comment period. It expects to finalize an environmental assessment early next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauaʻi gardens race to protect loulu palms from coconut rhinoceros beetles. The Kauaʻi-based National Tropical Botanical Garden's  prized loulu palms are being closely monitored as the beetles were discovered on Kauaʻi last year.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Green projects billion dollar budget surplus plus tax cuts, Hawaii officials fear Trump presidency to bring economic hit, climate losses, Honolulu council mulls 124% sewer fee hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Projects Billion Dollar Budget Surpluses Despite Historic Tax Cut.  Despite the extraordinary cost of the Maui wildfire disaster last year and the impact of the largest tax cut in state history this year, Gov. Josh Green’s administration anticipates billion-dollar budget surpluses for at least the next four years. Civil Beat.

Trump’s Support In Hawaii Has Grown Since He First Appeared On Ballots In 2016. It’s the best showing by a Republican nominee in the Aloha State since George W. Bush in 2004. Civil Beat.

How will Trump’s economic policies impact Hawaii? An economist weighs in. Many people who voted for the former president say it was because their families were harmed by rising prices and high interest rates, but Professor Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, says the things Trump is promising will make both of those problems worse. Hawaii News Now.

GOP Lawmaker Was Well Behind Until In-Person Votes Pushed Him To Victory. Republican state Rep. Elijah Pierick’s reelection victory in House District 39 was powered by in-person voters, an automatic recount shows. Civil Beat.

State senator calls for Hawaiʻi to be a climate leader during second Trump term. Donald Trump's reelection puts the U.S.'s role in international climate action in question. A state senator says Hawaiʻi needs to step up as a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Bill exempts veterans from vehicle fees. A bill to exempt annual motor vehicle registration fees for U.S. military veterans who are 65 years and older and reside within the City and County of Honolulu has been introduced. Star-Advertiser.

Council weighs in on city’s proposed sewer fee hike.  A city-initiated measure calling for a more than 124% increase to sewer fees for Oahu’s average single-family residential customer over a 10-year period was recently top of mind for the Honolulu City Council. Bill 60, if adopted by the Council, would see all of the city’s rate-paying customers, including commercial users, have a total fee hike of 115% over the decade-long time frame, according to the city. Star-Advertiser.

Commander urges former military to assist community. Dignitaries and community members gathered Monday at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl to celebrate Veterans Day. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Plaque near McKinley statue addresses misrepresentation. The Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs unveiled a new plaque Monday at the President William McKinley High School campus. The plaque, placed near the statue of the school’s namesake, seeks to address Hawaii’s contested annexation history and the statue’s representation of it. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaii Island

Cell tower bill showdown: Competing measures to be heard at Dec. 5 meeting. While both bills diverge significantly, they both ultimately would exempt telecommunications companies from needing permit approval by the county Planning Commissions. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Summit Webcams Brought Back Online. The Mauna Loa summit webcams have been down for several months due to wind damage at the radio telemetry site. Big Island Video News.

‘A day of reflection, gratitude and celebration’. Sunshine broke through a previously overcast Monday morning as the emcee of Hilo’s Veterans Day ceremony proclaimed it an “amazing, amazing Veterans Day.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui surfer determined to get back into water after shark bites off his leg. Kenji Nonaka, 61, is looking at life a little differently these days. Hawaii News Now.

First Lahaina residents expected to return home for Christmas. In six weeks, one Lahaina family said they’ll be ready to move back into their newly rebuilt home. They will be one of the first families moving back into the area, just in time for Christmas. KHON2.

Free presentation to cover wet season outlook, protecting Maui’s coral reefs. Residents of Maui looking to learn more about the wet season outlook can plug into an upcoming event with an expert from the National Weather Service.  Maui News. Maui Now.

Native Hawaiian scholarship event set for Dec. 10 at UH-Maui College. Students are invited to learn about Native Hawaiian support programs at UH-Hilo, UH Mānoa and UH Maui College. Maui Now.

Kauai

Officials tackle stubborn cesspool problem while trying to respect iwi. The discovery of iwi on Kauai’s North Shore during construction of a septic system is highlighting the stubborn problem of converting cesspools statewide. Lawmakers and government officials are trying to figure out how to balance mandatory conversions while protecting iwi kupuna (ancestral remains). Hawaii News Now.

A day of recognition for veterans. Under the leadership of the Waimea High School senior instructors, retired U.S. Army Colonel, Jerome Freeman and retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major Keith Castaneda, the Waimea High School JROTC battalion joined several hundred guests and dignitaries to pay tribute to all veterans during the Kauai Veterans Council Veterans Day Observance at Kauai Veterans Cemetery on Monday. Garden Island.

Tackling hunger in Hanapepe. As part of a positive action campaign, the Hawaii Foodbank Kauai partnered with the Hawaii Army National Guard, and numerous military-connected groups, including the Waimea High School JROTC program, Team Rubicon and U.S. Navy at the Pacific Missile Range Facility to offer free food for up to 200 families at Hanapepe Armory on Saturday. Garden Island.

Blessing at Kaua‘i heiau begins Makahiki, season marking start of Hawaiian lunar year. The 4-month season of Makahiki is observed throughout the Hawaiian Islands and is dedicated to the god Lono. Kauai Now.

Veterans Day: Hawaii's growing military significance. Plus, Republican influence grows in the state, panic buttons for schools, officials, Hawaii woman banned from South Korea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Retiring U.S. Army Pacific commander Gen. Charles Flynn says Hawaii is highly significant amid Pacific tensions.  Flynn, 61, reflected on his service in Hawaii, how the military presence in the islands has changed, and warned that the geopolitical situation in the Pacific has gotten more dangerous. He also said Hawaii’s geopolitical significance is greater than it’s ever been. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii activist is banned from South Korea. Christine Ahn, who was born in South Korea and immigrated to the United States, made international headlines in 2015 when her Honolulu-based organization Women Cross DMZ rallied 30 women to cross the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. Star-Advertiser.

Trump support grows in blue state Hawaii. Since his first run for president in 2016, support for President-elect Donald Trump has steadily increased among Hawaii voters, just like it did this year in other politically deep-blue states from California to New York. Star-Advertiser.

Republicans gain seats in state Legislature. The state Senate now has three Republicans, while the House has nine members -- the most in the Republican Caucus in the past 20 years. Hawaii News Now.

Data Shows A Dramatic Difference In Test Scores Between Hawaii Schools. Statewide numbers suggest student test scores have flatlined in Hawaii in recent years, but results for individual schools show significant changes. Civil Beat.

Panic Buttons For Schools? Hawaii Has A New System To Deal With Violence. The $7 million mobile security system also can be used by top state officials and lawmakers. Civil Beat.

Chamber of Commerce Hawaii releases 2030 Blueprint to boost Hawaii’s economic competitiveness. Chamber President and CEO Sherry Menor-­McNamara said the chamber paid a third-party contractor $100,000 to develop the Blueprint, a forward-thinking analysis to support new and better business opportunities for small-business owners, entrepreneurs and innovators. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric claims gains in cutting fire risk. Hawaii’s largest electrical utility plans to spend $300 million over the next three years on top of $120 million this year to reduce wildfire risk. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Tribune-Herald.

State seeks contractors to respond to 3 invasive pests. The state Department of Agriculture is seeking proposals from contractors to help combat three invasive pests across Hawaii with $2.8 million in taxpayer funds. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Public input sought on proposed city transit fare changes. Public transit fares on Oahu soon may go up for some riders. The Honolulu Rate Commission said it will accept public testimony on proposed transit fare changes affecting Skyline, TheBus and TheHandi-Van at its Tuesday meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki Beach projects expected to top $50 million. Millions in state funding for Waikiki Beach improvements lapsed under the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, and while the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is moving four projects forward again in a final environmental impact statement, the estimated cost has ballooned to more than $50 million. Star-Advertiser.

Council recommends city seize dilapidated Queen Theater. The Queen Theater, once an iconic landmark in Kaimuki, has turned into a rundown, blighted building that’s attracted decades of public complaints, vagrants and a litany of illicit and illegal activities. Star-Advertiser.

Officers allegedly assaulted in separate incidents on Oahu. Honolulu police officers were allegedly assaulted during two separate cases on Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor-Elect Alameda Announces First Appointments. Bill Brilhante has been chosen to serve as Managing Director, and Merrick Nishimoto will fill the role of Deputy Managing Director. Big Island Video News.

Vacation rentals bill shelved: Council decides contentious measure too complicated in current state. A proposal by the Hawaii County Council to revamp how the county regulates short-term vacation rentals could start again from scratch. Tribune-Herald.

Bill aims to increase number of affordable rentals. Hawaii County could change how it defines “affordable rental,” which could raise the cost of rent for some low-income residents. The 2024 affordable rental housing rates for most of the county ranged from $1,202 for a studio apartment to $3,061 for a six-bedroom home. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County to award over $13 million to boost affordable housing. The County of Hawaiʻi is awarding over $13.2 million in Affordable Housing Production Program funds to four projects across Hawaiʻi Island that will support, increase, and sustain the availability and accessibility of affordable housing. Big Island Now.

Public input sought on Kahuku Unit plan. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is inviting the community to provide input about a plan to manage the Kahuku Unit, which is a separate area of the park that encompasses 132,000-plus acres in Ka‘u. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui court strikes down new shoreline management rules. Maui Environmental Court Judge Kirstin Hamman ruled against the Maui Planning Commission’s recently updated special management area rules, siding with the Maui Tomorrow Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental preservation. Star-Advertiser.

Maui residents, officials speak out against proposed contested case hearing for long-term water permit. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5 to 2 on Friday to deny a recommendation to hold a contested case hearing regarding a controversial 30-year permit for water coming from Maui’s Ko’olau Forest Reserve.  Maui News.

Deficient envelopes add drama to South Maui race.  There were still 1,069 deficient envelopes holding ballots, according to the Maui County Clerk’s Office, which is still contacting voters and awaiting their cured ballots. The deadline to receive the cured ballots is 4:30 p.m. Nov. 13.  Maui News.

Yearlong renovation of War Memorial Stadium could pave way for Hula Bowl, concerts, rodeos. To be able to attract University of Hawaiʻi football games and other big events in the future, Maui County plans to shut down War Memorial Stadium in June of 2025 for a one-year renovation project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Police Department celebrates appointment of Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki. The Kaua‘i Police Department announced the official appointment of Assistant Chief Mark Ozaki as the department’s new Deputy Chief last week.  Kauai Now.

Lawmakers to discuss wildfire mitigation today, Green gives state workers extra time off, Honolulu council rejects fireworks veto override and $1.5M police wrongful death settlement, Maui seeks delay of water permit plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Legislative committees to hold joint informational briefing on HECO Wildfire Mitigation Plan. A joint informational briefing hosted by the Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection, the Committee on Public Safety and Intergovernmental and Military Affairs, and the Committee on Energy, Economic Development, and Tourism takes place at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. Maui Now.

Money For New State Fire Marshal Isn’t Nearly Enough, Fire Council Says. Hawaii’s State Fire Council says lawmakers need to invest from $1 million to $4 million to revive the Office of the State Fire Marshal — up to 23 times more than the $172,000 legislators have allocated for the office so far. Civil Beat.

Final ballots confirm GOP hopes and trigger a House recount. The latest tally of the last 18,000 votes cast Tuesday on Election Day flipped the results of a contentious West Oahu seat and now has incumbent Republican Rep. Elijah Pierick winning instead of losing, but that could change again depending on a recount of the nearly 10,000 votes. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

2 Kauai lawmakers to lead Hawaii Legislature. Rep. Nadine Nakamura (D, Hanalei-Princeville- Kapaa) won the job to lead the 51-member House with a majority of votes from colleagues, and assumed the role Wednesday from outgoing Rep. Scott Saiki, who lost his reelection bid in the Aug. 7 primary election. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Gov. Green gives state workers bonus paid time off. For the third time in three years, Gov. Josh Green is giving state employees extra paid time off work during the holiday season.  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council opts not to override mayor’s veto of fireworks bill.  A Honolulu City Council measure to allow the legal sale, purchase and use of fireworks that have been banned in the city for over a decade fizzled in a 4-4 vote Thursday. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Council cancels vote on $1.5M settlement in fatal HPD shooting. City attorneys will fight a wrongful death lawsuit brought by the widow of an unarmed Black man shot and killed by police following a violent confrontation in 2021 after the City Council scuttled a $1.5 million settlement Opens in a new tab Wednesday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Community weighs in on controversial development on O'ahu's north shore. Tensions escalated at a neighborhood board subcommittee meeting in Hauula on Thursday night over proposed development near Turtle Bay Resort. KITV4.

Years Of Shortchanging Elections Led To Honolulu’s Long Voter Lines. After experiencing long Election Day lines in 2020, city officials thought they knew how to fix them. Their efforts fell short. Civil Beat.

Ameresco moves ahead with renewable energy projects at Pearl Harbor. Clearway Energy recently pulled the plug on plans for three major solar farms, but Hawaiian Electric still has several other projects in the works.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Support urged for housing project. More than 200 new units could be added to an affordable housing development in Hilo under a proposal by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. Tribune-Herald.

United States Treasurer Chief Visits Hawaiʻi Island. U.S. Treasurer Chief Lynn Malerba was recently on the Island of Hawai‘i to “gain insights on the impacts of Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program.”  Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County in process of contracting with firm to conduct Puna Alternate Routes Study. Hawai‘i County is in the process of contracting with a consulting firm to perform a study about alternate road access in Puna that would alleviate the district’s longstanding traffic congestion and provide an evacuation route when natural disasters strike. Big Island Now.

Honor military veterans on Saturday: Annual parade in downtown Hilo begins at 10 a.m. The Big Island community will unite on Saturday to celebrate and honor service in all its forms at the 17th Annual Hawaii Island Veterans Day Parade. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen asks state land board to hold off on water permit conversation, again. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen is asking the state land board once again to hold off on discussing a contested case hearing involving a 30-year permit for water from Maui’s Ko’olau Forest Reserve.  Maui News. Maui Now.

Morgue contractor suing Maui police for alleged unpaid bills after Lahaina fire. The owner of Grey Tech LLC is now suing MPD over claims the company’s owed more than a quarter million dollars for services provided following the Lahaina disaster. This comes after MPD said it opened an investigation into the contractor. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Health nurses, workers return to work after 3-day strike. Hundreds of nurses and health care workers from Maui Health returned to work Thursday morning after holding a three-day strike protesting unfair labor practices. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Community condemns ‘desecration and defecation’ of Kauai iwi kupuna found at cesspool conversion site. On Monday, multiple government officials visited the site of a mandatory cesspool conversion project at the Hale Makai Cottages in Wainiha, Kauai. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says there are at least eight burials found in June and and September.  Hawaii News Now.

Raising awareness about poverty and homelessness. Kaua‘i County officials along with others from around the Garden Isle and a representative from Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green’s office gathered at the end of last week to raise awareness and educate the public about the issues of poverty and homelessness. Kauai Now.

Nakamura set to become first female state House speaker, Republicans gain some legislative seats, state scrambles to finish counting ballots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Legislators To Name 1st Female House Speaker In Hawaii History. Nadine Nakamura is expected to be selected as part of a leadership reorganization Thursday. Lawmakers must vote to make it official when the next session begins. Civil Beat.

Senate leadership announced for upcoming 33rd Hawai‘i Legislative Biennium. Hawai‘i Senate President Ronald Kouchi on Wednesday, following Tuesday’s general election, announced the leadership and committee chairpersons for the upcoming 2025-26 Legislative Biennium. Big Island Now.

Reelected state Sen. Brenton Awa slated to become minority leader. For the last two years, the Republicans in the Senate – Awa and Leeward Oʻahu Sen. Kurt Fevella – have not been able to determine a leader.. However, westside Republican Samantha DeCorte secured her district in the general election on Tuesday, defeating Democratic House Rep. Cedric Gates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Republicans may be gaining seats in Legislature. As of Wednesday evening, House Republican Candidates Garner Shimizu, Chris Muraoka and Julie Reyes Oda are leading their Democratic opponents. Republican Senate candidate Samantha DeCorte is winning against Cedric Gates. KHON2. KITV4.

West Oahu House Race Looks Headed For A Recount. Republican Rep. Elijah Pierick has taken a 20-vote lead over Democratic challenger Corey Rosenlee, according to late election returns released Wednesday night. If the margin between the two stays under 24 votes, it’s likely headed to a recount under a new law passed by the Legislature this year. Civil Beat.

Big Island incumbents all retain seats in Legislature. the Big Island’s delegates in the state Legislature kept their seats Tuesday after cruising to easy victories. Tribune-Herald.

Kaua‘i Democrats defeat opponents in elections for state House seats. Incumbent candidates on Kaua‘i, all of whom are Democrats, defeated all Republican challengers in state-level races this election. Kauai Now.

Lines of mostly Republicans delay vote tally. Long lines of people — overwhelmingly Republicans — who exercised their right to vote in person and even register to vote all day and night Tuesday delayed the release of election votes past midnight Wednesday, the longest delay in Hawaii voting history, said Hawaii Elections Chief Scott Nago. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s What Local Republicans Say A Trump Presidency Will Mean For Hawaii. Trump supporters say a second term should bring peace and prosperity, a lower cost of living and help for Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council mulls veto override for fireworks bill. Adopted by a majority of the Council in early October to allow ground-level fountains and sparklers to be lit in public on Oahu by lifting the city’s partial fireworks ban, Bill 22 was formally vetoed by the mayor on Oct. 25. Star-Advertiser.

Elections officials apologize for voting delays, but will changes be made? Honolulu election officials are apologizing for long waits that left many voters standing in rain and darkness for hours on election night. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Will the Ala Wai pedestrian bridge be a debacle like HART? In response to continued interest from the Waikīkī, Mōʻiliʻili and McCully communities, the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is increasing opportunities for public input on the design of the Ala Pono Pedestrian Bridge (formerly known as the Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge).  KHON2.

Thousands oppose $1.5M proposed settlement of HPD deadly shooting lawsuit. Nearly 2,300 Hawaii residents do not want the city to pay $1.5 million to settle a deadly HPD shooting lawsuit. They’ve signed an online petition supporting officers who shot and killed Rugby star Lindani Myeni in 2021. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Changing of the guard: Alameda, Roth discuss outcome of the mayoral race. Kimo Alameda — a political newcomer who took a decisive victory over incumbent Mayor Mitch Roth in the election Tuesday and will become Hawaii County’s chief executive on Dec. 2 — said Wednesday that finding and assembling a team will be a priority. Tribune-Herald.

Hustace, Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder look ahead. Councilwoman Cindy Evans was ousted Tuesday by opponent James Hustace. Puna Councilman Matt Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder defeated incumbent Ikaika Rodenhurst with 57% of the vote. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County incumbents survive election despite voter frustration about Lahaina fire recovery, economy.  The only Maui race in which a challenger garnered at least 40% of the vote was the District 14 West Maui contest that incumbent Democratic Rep. Elle Cochran won with 51.3% of the vote to Republican Kelly Armstrong’s 40.4%, according to the third printout of results around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.  Maui Now.

Slight lead in Maui County Council race could spell big change. As of Wednesday morning, Maui County Council member Tom Cook held a narrow lead of less than 1% over biodiesel executive Kelly King in a race that could tip the scales on major issues involving hundreds of millions of dollars in future development. Maui News.

Maui Judge Peter Cahill: All Maui Wildfire Insurance Claims Must Be Made Public. Insurance companies have a month to make public lists of every insurance claim related to the wildfire that killed 102 people on Maui and destroyed much of Lahaina, including the amount of each claim, the amount actually paid out and the rationale for the payment.  Civil Beat.

Kauai

Holland, Kaneshiro join Kauai County Council. A tight battle for the final seat on the Kauai County Council ended with a newcomer knocking off an incumbent to join the seven-member governing body on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Hawaii prefers Harris as Trump retakes presidency, Republicans lose seat in state House, same-sex marriage amendment passes, Alameda ousts incumbent Hawaii County Mayor Roth, more election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Detailed statewide election summary at second printing. Hawaii Office of Elections.

Republicans lose a House seat, new faces joining Legislature.  Hawaii Republicans lost one state representative in the 76-member state Legislature early Wednesday morning when the first Election Day tallies were finally released, while also seeing several Democratic freshmen representatives win election who will vote on laws affecting the entire state when the next session convenes in January. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Voters Supporting Same-Sex Marriage Ballot Measure. The amendment would remove discriminatory language from the state’s constitution. Another question on judicial selection is poised for passage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Trump retakes the presidency but Hawaii prefers Harris. Vice President Kamala Harris won Hawaii and the state's four electoral votes on Wednesday. It's the 10th straight presidential election in which Hawaii has selected the Democratic Party candidate. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s congressional incumbents cruise to reelection. Three-fourths of Hawaii’s congressional delegation cruised to re-election as U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono and Reps. Jill Tokuda and Ed Case held insurmountable leads over their opponents in the first vote tally released by state elections officials early this morning. Hawaii’s congressional delegation will have to work for federal resources for Hawaii with the White House and U.S. Senate, and possibly the House, controlled by Republicans. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now.

OHA Election Results: Incumbents Returning To Office. Island trustees for Molokai, Lanai and Kauai are returning to their seats. Civil Beat.

Long Lines On Oahu And Maui Delayed Hawaii Election Results For Hours. State officials and election advocates renewed calls for more in-person polling sites on Election Day. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Election: All 4 Charter Amendments Are On Track To Be Approved. The proposed measures would affect climate change funding, city council member salaries, an ocean safety oversight commission and emergency management leaders. Civil Beat.

Oahu voters brave long lines and rain to cast their ballots. Hundreds of residents stood in the rain since early Tuesday morning — some waiting for up to three hours — to get into Oahu’s voter service centers in Honolulu and Kapolei. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Alameda Leads Roth In Mayor’s Race Upset. Early election returns showed Hilo psychologist Kimo Alameda on track to defeat Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth in a surprise upset in a contest that featured some sharp exchanges over Roth’s record and accomplishments. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. KHON2.

James Hustace leading incumbent Cindy Evans in race for Hawai‘i County Council seat. Evans, who is running for a second term to represent North and South Kohala in District 9, received 3,192 votes. Hustace garnered 4,191. Big Island Now.

Hawai‘i Island continues to support Democratic leadership in State Legislature. Hawai‘i County voters continue to support Democratic leadership as Big Island incumbents for the Senate and House retain their seats. Big Island Now.

Maui

Cook Leads King To Keep Council Seat. Voters were on track to pass two of three charter amendments, preliminary results show. Civil Beat.

2024 Hawai‘i and Maui County Election Results. Preliminary results as of 12:30 a.m. Wednesday. Maui News. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi on way to elect 6 current or former members and a newcomer to County Council. In the race for the seven seats on the Kauaʻi County Council in the 2024 General Election, current or former council members appear to have won the first six seats, after the second printout at 12:24 a.m. on Wednesday. Kauai Now.

Kauai Election Results: Two Incumbents Losing Council Seats. A slate of charter amendments meant to improve county operations and give youth a bigger voice in governance are moving forward. Civil Beat.

Maui fire recovery, pandemic hazard pay strain state budget, Green leads delegation to Japan, Blangiardi signs bill increasing grants to developers of affordable housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor: Hawaii Can Pay The Bills For Maui Fire Recovery, Hazard Pay And More. The administration has not yet released a budget plan for covering those costs, but the governor says it can be done without tapping into the rainy day fund. Civil Beat.

Maui judge agrees to ask state Supreme Court about barriers to $4B wildfire settlement. Judge Peter Cahill on Maui agreed Friday to ask the state high court questions about how insurance companies can go about recouping money paid to policyholders. Associated Press.

Disaster insurance drove billions in revenue for companies. Hawaii homeowners and businesses have purchased nearly $38 billion in disaster insurance over the last 20 years, generating more than $23 billion in net income for insurance companies and further driving Gov. Josh Green to insist that insurers be barred from suing the entities responsible for last year’s Maui wildfires, including the state. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Transportation Department holds fate of Alaska-Hawaiian merger. Two weeks have passed since the proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines cleared what is traditionally considered its most significant regulatory hurdle. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Gov. Green travels to Japan to strengthen ties with sister cities. Green will also lead a delegation of local businesses for the Tokyo International Gift Show, meet with the US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, and will meet with leaders from Fukuoka, Ehime and Hiroshima prefectures. Maui Now.

In first interview since losing election, Hawaii's house speaker Scott Saiki discusses long career in politics. Video Only. Hawaii News Now.

UH developed, living coastal-protection system prepares for deployment. The University of Hawaiʻi has reached a milestone in the US Department of Defense funded project that aims to create a living breakwater system to protect coastlines from erosion and create ecosystems where resilient corals and other ocean life can grow and thrive. Maui Now.

Oahu

New Honolulu law aims to spur affordable rental construction. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 3 to increase post-construction grant amounts for privately financed rental housing projects, deemed a key incentive for developers trying to make projects financially feasible, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Board to review CEO’s contract on Friday, HART says. The next employment agreement for Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s executive director and CEO, Lori Kahikina, is set for possible approval later this week. Star-Advertiser.

City unveils plans to alter Oahu’s livable landscape to match population growth. Pearl City residents got to see the city’s ambitious plan to reshape their neighborhood. It includes replacing rundown buildings with new high-rises over the next 16 years. Hawaii News Now.

A Wave Of Westside Shootings Has People Saying ‘Enough Is Enough.’ But What More Can Be Done? Honolulu police promised to step up officer patrols in the area, where residents have long felt neglected by city services.  Neighbors’ complaint about speeding cars set off Waianae man’s deadly rampage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Kapi‘olani Medical Center nurses vote to go on strike again. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association, which represents 600 Kapi‘olani nurses, said Sunday night that its members voted by an overwhelming majority to give the union the green light to call for a walkout if a contract cannot be reached with Hawaii Pacific Health, which operates Kapi‘olani. Star-Advertiser.

Assets School is granted $1.25 million for tuition aid. Assets School, the only K-12 school in Hawaii specializing in educating children who are gifted, dyslexic or have other language-­based learning differences, has received an anonymous $1.25 million donation to support tuition assistance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Gov. Green Fills Hawaii House of Representatives Vacancy. Matthias Kusch will represent Hamakua, Kaumana and parts of Hilo on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

Overnight Safe Space opens in Hilo. The Hilo Overnight Safe Space is a 25-bed outdoor tent at the Salvation Army’s facility downtown on Ponahawai Street.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Conservation groups say Hawaiʻi Supreme Court aquarium fishing ruling will hurt ecosystem.  The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on Wednesday approved the legality of an environmental review to allow limited aquarium fishing around Hawaiʻi Island, leading to concerns about opening up the industry throughout the West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area. Hawaii Public Radio.

State’s high court to hear arguments over release of new evidence in Dana Ireland murder case. The Hawaii Supreme Court has set Sept. 12 as the date to hear oral arguments in the legal battle over evidence in the high profile 1991 murder of Dana Ireland. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Council refers accessory dwelling bill to Housing and Land Use Committee. Maui County Council members referred to the Housing and Land Use Committee on Tuesday a bill stemming from a new state law that requires counties to change the way accessory dwellings are permitted on residential property. Maui Now.

Maui Is Fully Reopening 2 Lahaina Neighborhoods For First Time Since The Fires. The county says Wahikuli and Mala no longer present a safety or health risk to justify restricted access. Civil Beat.

Initiative works to keep Lahaina lands in local hands. The Lahaina Community Land Trust helps local residential property owners avoid selling their Lahaina land and buys  property from owners who are committed to sell and then buys the property to perpetually house local families. Star-Advertiser.

Storm rainfall brings little relief to Maui’s southside; drought conditions persist. Leslie Peterson, nursery manager of the South Maui Garden in Kihei, said the recent rainfall that hit Maui last week from storm system Gilma was nothing short of a blessing. Maui News.
 
Kauai

Kauai fishpond’s restoration is recognized. Scores of volunteers have been sweating and toiling in the mud the past five years to restore the Alakoko fishpond on Kauai, one of the last remaining ponds built by Native Hawaiians some 600 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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