Triple-digit COVID increase won't bring back restrictions, children now 20% of infected, Kauai sewer problems contaminate beach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Grocery COVID precautions ©2021 All Hawaii News

Return of restrictions not planned as coronavirus infections surge in Hawaii. The number of new COVID-19 cases in Hawaii is surging, and remained in the triple-digit range for the fifth day in a row Monday. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Restaurant association head calls for end to state restrictions. The chairman of the Hawaii Restaurant Association said it’s time for Gov. David Ige and the counties’ mayors to lift restrictions on the state’s eateries and retail outlets. Tribune-Herald.

Vaccinated state employees who traveled to the mainland are learning about a new policy that’s keeping some out of the office ― and forced to use personal time. The mandate for all 55,000 state workers ― even those are fully vaccinated ― requires approval from their department directors prior to return to the workplace. Hawaii News Now.

As new school year approaches, plans to bring students back remains unclear. The Hawaii Department of Health is currently revising school guidance, but with two weeks until school starts, there’s still a lot of uncertainty. KHON2.

How Hawaii Schools Are Helping Kids Who Struggled During The Pandemic. Schools are implementing programs to foster “social and emotional well-being” in students as well as academic progress. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports uptick in number of kids testing positive for COVID. Officials said Monday that those under 18 now make up about 20% of all Hawaii cases. Hawaii News Now.

July 19, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 132 Cases. The confirmed cases included: 81 on O‘ahu (+7 probable); 22 on Hawai‘i Island (-1 probable); eight on Maui (+1 probable); four on Kaua‘i; and nine in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed while out of state (+1 probable). Maui Now.

Oahu

Oahu restaurants and bars have the option to do away with social distancing if customers provide proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 test. But many restaurant operators aren’t doing so because diners don’t want to show their vaccination cards or present test results. KITV4. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu electricity customers to pay for rooftop solar battery program. Hawaiian Electric customers on Oahu can help ensure sufficiency of the island’s power supply — and get paid for it — by adding battery storage to existing or new rooftop solar systems. Star-Advertiser.

As council determines whether to replace him, HART board member say he’s being ‘punished’ for his views. The Honolulu City Council will vote Tuesday on whether to replace a controversial voice on the rail authority’s board: Member Joseph Uno. Hawaii News Now.

Study tries to revive Ala Wai flood project, which has lost more than $200 million in federal support. Hawaii has lost hundreds of millions in federal funding for the Ala Wai Flood Risk Management Project, but the city has signed an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a study aimed at getting the 2-decade-old project moving again. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Navy Says Pearl Harbor Friday Fuel Leak Contained, Sheds Light on March 2020 Leak. A weekend fuel line leak of an estimated 100 gallons at Pearl Harbor has been contained, the Navy said. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Would Join A National Trend With A Commission On Social Justice And Equity. But details would have to be worked out, such as whether such a commission would have real power. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County reinstates free COVID-19 testing amid uptick in cases. The County of Hawaii will reinstate its free community COVID-19 testing program to address the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases and help better prepare for the transition to the upcoming school year. KITV4.

Zoo debut: Panaewa reopens after 16-month closure. On Monday morning, Hawaii County Parks and Recreation hosted a blessing ceremony to signify the reopening of the zoo after nearly 16 months of closure. Tribune-Herald.

Pololū Valley Trail Steward Program Hopes to Manage Visitor Impact. A new program funded by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority hopes to ease some popular trails — and some tension between residents and visitors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kona subdivision seeks council permission. Owners of a 4-acre North Kona parcel are seeking a rezoning from agriculture to urban and permission to subdivide it into six residential lots. West Hawaii Today.

$3.4M in capitol improvements for Honokaa, Honomu. The state has released nearly $3.4 million for capital improvement projects in Honokaa and Honomu. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Council Chair Lee Seeks Unity as Injection Well Case Proceeds Through Courts. Hawai‘i Federal Court Judge Susan Oki Mollway last week issued an order requiring Maui County to get discharge permits for Lahaina injection wells under the Clean Water Act. Maui Now.

Public Comment Period Underway on DHHL’s Honokōwai Master Plan. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands engaged its beneficiaries in a master planning process to determine appropriate land uses for DHHL’s approximately 850 acres of lands at Honokōwai including new agricultural homesteads, multi-family homes, and individual or community farming. Maui Now.

Despite The Pandemic, A Molokaʻi Charter School Improves Curriculum. Like all schools, Kualapuʻu Charter went to remote learning in the spring of 2020, with its challenges ranging from internet and technology issues to support at home. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Wailua beach-goers warned of wastewater issues. The county Department of Public Works Wastewater Division is currently out of compliance with state Department of Health standards at its Wailua Wastewater Treatment Plant. Garden Island.

Vegas, churches cause of Kaua‘i COVID uptick. Kaua‘i officials are pointing to Las Vegas travel and places of worship for a recent spike in COVID-19 infections. Garden Island.

County receives $40K toward reducing systemic racial disparities. The county’s seeking to reduce systemic racial disparities by at least 20%, and now has some of the means to do so. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige's State of the State address today, Hawaii GOP official resigns after defending QAnon, House speaker targets auditor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kayakers on the Ala Wai ©2021 All Hawaii News

Officials balk at near-doubling of price of Ala Wai Flood Risk Management Project. The cost of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Ala Wai Flood Risk Management Project has nearly doubled to $651 million, potentially stalling the two-decades-old project once again. Star-Advertiser.

Estimated price tag for Ala Wai flood prevention project doubles to $650M. The cost estimate for the Ala Wai flood prevention project has nearly doubled in another major blow to the effort. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii GOP official resigns after using party Twitter account to support QAnon conspiracy theorists. On Sunday night, Hawaii GOP vice Chair of communications Edwin Boyette resigned through a Facebook post. In his statement, he wrote the discussion of the Q-Conspiracy was an error of judgement. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii GOP deletes Twitter thread defending QAnon supporters. The Hawaii Republican Party is under fire for a series of tweets that appear to defend supporters of the QAnon conspiracy. KITV4.

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With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to damage Hawaii’s struggling economy, state House and Senate leaders have a long list of ideas that they either hope or expect to hear from Gov. David Ige during his State of the State address today. Star-Advertiser.

Ige expected to outline his economic recovery plan in State of the State. As the pandemic drags on, Gov. David Ige will deliver his State of the State to cameras Monday rather than an assembled audience of lawmakers and dignitaries. Hawaii News Now.

Host of safety protocols in place to prevent COVID outbreak during legislative session. The legislative session kicked off this week, but state business will be conducted much differently during the pandemic in an effort to keep the building safe. Hawaii News Now.

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Proposed Budget Cuts Would ‘Basically Gut’ Hawaii State Auditor’s Office. Days after he ordered an investigation into the office, the House Speaker wants to cut the watchdog agency’s budget in half — far more than any other state agency. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Tourism Authority readies for defunding. The Hawaii Tourism Authority, the state agency responsible for leading tourism recovery across the isles, is in dire financial straits and has already started running “doomsday scenarios” in the event that it faces defunding. Star-Advertiser.

Isle labor market not likely to see major gains in short term. Hawaii’s travel demand hasn’t returned as strongly as some had hoped when the state introduced Safe Travels Hawaii, a travel entry program aimed at creating a safe way for travelers to return to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Celebration plans for the Queen Lili‘uokalani home and many Hawaii governors could cost $53,000. Gov. David Ige proposes spending $53,000 to commemorate the anniversary of the longtime residence of Queen Lili‘uokalani and a dozen Hawaii governors, which became a museum and state reception venue nearly two decades ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Rep. Ed Case Tries Again To Rein In Helicopter Tour And Skydiving Operations. Noise and safety are at issue in federal legislation the congressman is still pursuing. Civil Beat. West Hawaii Today.

No vaccines for seniors’ companions. Hawaii Pacific Health officials said Sunday they will continue to honor COVID-19 vaccination appointments to companions of seniors (age 75 and older) made prior to the Department of Health’s decision to end the practice. Star-Advertiser.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 24: 153 New COVID-19 Cases. The cases announced Sunday included 105 on Oahu, 34 on Maui, six on the Big Island, and eight residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

She Was About To Lose Her Job. Then Her Dad’s Department Hired Her. Two weeks before Honolulu’s former budget director Manny Valbuena left office, his department hired his daughter for a six-month gig that was not advertised and for which no other candidates were considered. Civil Beat.

New HART Board Member Wants A Fraud Hotline. An outside auditor for HART describes Natalie Iwasa’s idea for a hotline as a best practice. Civil Beat.

Permit for Red Hill fuel tanks stirs controversy. A contested case hearing is scheduled for Feb. 1-5 to debate the Navy obtaining a state operating permit for the Red Hill fuel farm, with the Sierra Club of Hawaii hoping it leads to stricter controls in the short term and relocation of the controversial underground tanks longer-term. Star-Advertiser.

In Kaimuki, residents worry monster homes are taking over the community. Kaimuki resident say the pandemic has not slowed down the construction of monster homes in their neighborhood. And they’re fighting back. Hawaii News Now.

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Oahu’s 2nd mass COVID-19 vaccination clinic to open at Blaisdell. So far, more than 12,000 people have made an appointment to receive the Moderna vaccine at the clinic run by The Queen’s Health Systems. Hawaii News Now.

More than 12,000 appointments already booked for second large vaccination site on Oahu. The state says as of last week, about 70,000 people got vaccinated statewide. KHON2.

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Tab to fix Waiea luxury condo tower in Kakaako tops $100M. The developer of the most luxurious condominium tower in Kakaako has decided to pony up over $100 million to fix defects that have vexed homeowners in the 4-year-old building. Star-Advertiser.

Maili low-income homes receiving first tenants. The developer of the $22.7 million project called Hale Makana O Maili held a low-key blessing Jan. 15 because of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

After 180 years, St. Ann’s Catholic School to close its doors. Leaders of St. Ann’s said declining enrollment and rising financial challenges led them to close the school at the end of the academic year on June 4. They announced the closure in a letter to families Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

County: COVID-19 app won’t be mandatory for travelers. Hawaii County has no plans to make the state’s official COVID-19 exposure notification application mandatory on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Teaching telescope project to proceed at Halepohaku. Despite receiving predominantly negative feedback from community members, the Office of Maunakea Management will seek to proceed with constructing a telescope facility at Halepohaku. Tribune-Herald.

Council committee again pans Travalino for Leeward Planning Commission. It was deja vu Tuesday for Mark Travalino, who once again faced a County Council Planning Committee opposed to his appointment to the Leeward Planning Commission. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Health director: Intended second doses went to 1st doses instead. Maui’s COVID-19 vaccination sites may have been giving intended second doses of the vaccine to people seeking their first shot, though Hawaii’s health director said this was completely appropriate. Maui News.

Maui still behind on vaccine rollout. As the vaccination rollout continues statewide, the only island not accepting first dose registrations is Maui. KHON2.

Nominee for Maui Prosecuting Attorney to be Vetted Tuesday. The Maui County Council’s Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee will meet Tuesday at 9 a.m. to vet the nomination of Andrew H. Martin for prosecuting attorney. Maui Now.

University of Hawai‘i Maui College Achieves Net-Zero Goal. Through a combination of solar photovoltaic energy, distributed energy storage and energy efficiency measures, UH Maui College has reduced the campus’ use of fossil fuel for energy by an estimated 100%. Maui Now.

Maui Humane Society to temporarily close following COVID-19 exposure. Maui Humane Society announced it will temporarily close its facility from Jan. 25 through Jan. 31 after management discovered possible COVID-19 exposure among staff. KHON2.

Kauai

This Innovative Kauai Medical Clinic Is Struggling To Survive. The collapse of tourism on the island is causing economic hardship in many business sectors, including health care. Civil Beat.

KIUC, AES agreement pending. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative Communications Manager Beth Tokioka said there is still no time frame for the state Public Utilities Commission to approve the purchase-power agreement between AES Corporation and KIUC. Garden Island.

Significant changes to Kaua‘i Bus schedule coming. In an effort to improve service to the public, The Kaua‘i Bus has announced multiple significant changes to its islandwide mainline and shuttle routes starting Sunday, Feb. 7. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai’s Fabled Axis Deer Are Starving To Death In Droves. The crisis, triggered in part by drought, exposes rifts in the community and raises questions about how to manage the herd in the future. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's 14-day trans-Pacific quarantine extended to at least October, Honolulu trims crowd size to 5 people, Lt. Gov. Green to talk with Fauci, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige on Aug. 18 from Facebook Live

State extends 14-day quarantine for arriving passengers until Oct. 1. Gov. David Ige announced Tuesday that the state will push back plans to reopen transpacific travel until “at least” Oct. 1 amid a recent increase in coronavirus cases. Pacific Business News.

Recovery is on pause again for Hawaii’s battered visitor industry. Gov. David Ige said Tuesday that the state will wait until at least Oct. 1 to begin a program to allow passengers with approved negative COVID-19 tests taken within 72 hours of their trip to Hawaii to bypass the state’s mandatory 14-day self- quarantine for out-of-state passengers. Star-Advertiser.

Tourism Return Delayed Again. Hawai‘i Gov. David Ige has delayed the return of free-flowing trans-Pacific travel to the state for the second time. Big Island Now.

Ige pushes pretravel testing to Oct. 1 at ‘earliest’. A few days after signaling the pretravel testing program would be delayed for the second time, Gov. David Ige announced Tuesday that it will be pushed to Oct. 1 at the soonest. Maui News.

Trans-Pacific quarantine likely extended. The 14-day quarantine for trans-Pacific travel to Hawai‘i will likely continue through at least the beginning of October, according to a Tuesday announcement from Governor David Ige. Garden Island.


DOH 'aggressively' bringing on additional contact tracing staff after public scrutiny. The Department of Health (DOH) has been under fire for not hiring enough contact tracers, but Director Bruce Anderson says he's trying to fix that. KITV4.

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Lt. Gov. Josh Green will talk story with Dr. Anthony Fauci on Aug. 25. The state’s COVID-19 healthcare liaison is getting ready to talk story with the nation’s top infectious disease expert. KHON2.

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Is COVID-19 Spreading Because People Have Gotten Tired Of Restrictions? Economists who track how people move about in their daily lives say government restrictions appear to be necessary to control the spread of the virus. Civil Beat.

Ige to extend eviction moratorium. Gov. David Ige announced Tuesday afternoon that the state will extend its moratorium preventing evictions of residents unable to pay rent another month through the end of September. West Hawaii Today.

HSTA Follows Governor’s News Conference With Call For More Action. The Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association held another online news conference on Tuesday, calling for additional action to keep schools and communities safe. Big Island Video News.

HSTA fights to delay start of in-person classes. Tuesday afternoon HSTA called on the Department of Education to push back the start in-person classes to at least Oct. 2. KHON2.

DOH releases latest details on cases and clusters statewide. The Department of Health has released their most detailed report to date about known cases and clusters in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 18: 134 New COVID-19 Cases And Another Death. Forty-one fatalities have been related to COVID-19 in Hawaii since March. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For August 18th: 134 New Cases, 1 New Death. There were 134 newly reported cases of COVID-19 in the State of Hawaiʻi as of noon on Tuesday. 124 of those new cases were identified on Oʻahu, seven (7) on Maui, and three (3) on Hawaiʻi island. One new death was also reported. Big Island Video News.

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DHHL Submits Wireless Spectrum Applications to FCC. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has submitted five applications to the Federal Communications Commission for unassigned Spectrum in response to a Rural Tribal Priority Window that opened Monday, Feb. 3, 2020 and closes on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2020. Only federally recognized Tribes or Alaska Native Villages could apply for Spectrum in the Window. Maui Now.

Oahu

Oahu Crackdown: 5 People Max At Any Social Gathering. In response to the increase in spread of COVID-19 on Oahu, city officials announced Tuesday new limits on social gatherings but said they are allowing businesses such as gyms, retailers and restaurants to remain open. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige and Mayor Kirk Caldwell use another targeted approach to combat COVID-19 surge on Oahu. Officials used what they called a more targeted approach Tuesday in prohibiting Oahu residents from gathering in groups of more than five. Star-Advertiser.

Instead of a broad shutdown, governor opts to institute further restrictions on gatherings. To address a dramatic, weeks-long surge in new COVID-19 infections on Oahu, the governor and mayor announced new restrictions on gatherings Tuesday but opted not to put in place a broad shutdown, allowing gyms, restaurants, retailers and offices to remain open. Hawaii News Now.

Officials Declare No Social Gatherings On Oʻahu. State and Honolulu County officials today announced the latest restrictions intending to slow the spread of COVID-19 on Oʻahu. Big Island Video News.

Ige, Caldwell announce new restrictions as COVID-19 surge continues on Oahu. Gov. David Ige and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said in a joint media conference Tuesday that new gathering-size restrictions imposed in response to a recent spike in COVID-19 cases apply only to Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

HPD still giving out hundreds of citations for COVID-19 violations as new rules take effect. The City and County of Honolulu said strict enforcement of the rules will continue as hundreds of citations continue to be given out to rule breakers. KHON2.

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About 40% of Oahu Community Correctional Center inmates tested for coronavirus are positive. Four out of every 10 Oahu Community Correctional Center inmates tested for COVID-19 have received positive results since mass testing began at the Kalihi facility a week ago, according to numbers extrapolated from the daily totals issued by the state Department of Public Safety. Star-Advertiser.

24 inmates will be released into the community amidst COVID-19 outbreak at OCCC. Inmates will be released into the community on Wednesday as the state works to control the spread of COVID-19 at OCCC. Hawaii News Now.

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Mayor Caldwell asks Honolulu City Council to confirm acting corporation counsel to permanent appointment. Mayor Kirk Caldwell has asked the Honolulu City Council to make Paul Aoki the city’s permanent corporation counsel. Star-Advertiser.

Parents stunned after Nanakuli charter school disenrolls more than 270 students. A Nanakuli Charter School was enjoying a boom in online enrollment this fall due to the pandemic. But the Ka Waihona o ka Na’auao Public Charter School is now turning away hundreds of those students. Hawaii News Now.

Feds Revamp Ala Wai Flood Control Plan After Community Opposition. Critics question how the previous designs for the $345 million project advanced so far based on faulty modeling. Civil Beat.

Ala Wai flood control plan gets major overhaul. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Tuesday a revised plan for the Ala Wai Flood Control Pro­ject with significantly fewer impacts on the natural streams and residential properties within the watershed, but the plan retains a large controversial pump and wall on the canal. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kim withdraws Fire Commission nominee: Selection of HGEA rep draws controversy. An irked Mayor Harry Kim appeared Tuesday before a County Council panel and withdrew his nomination of a union representative for a seat on the Fire Commission after denouncing a process he said became politicized. West Hawaii Today.

County Supports Water Quality, Circulation Study in Hilo Bay. Hawai‘i County is hoping to un-muddy the waters of Hilo Bay. Big Island Now.

County eyes projects to stimulate economy, encourage low-income housing. In an effort to support local businesses, the Hawaii County might introduce a paid parking scheme in downtown Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County urges eligible residents to apply for rent, mortgage assistance. Hawaii County is partnering with six non-profits to launch the Hawaii County Rent and Mortgage Assistance Program. Hawaii News Now.

Some local businesses say 46% hike in shipping prices could be devastating. Because the cost of shipping drastically increased, KTA Superstores on the Big Island is forced to bump its prices and they're not the only ones. KITV4.

Maui

Maui Hospital COVID-19 Count Rises to 36. The number of COVID-19 cases at the Maui Memorial Medical Center has risen to 36 as of noon today.  Maui Health confirmed that there are 19 health care workers and 17 patients at Maui Memorial Medical Center who have tested positive for COVID-19. Maui Now.

Maui Memorial faces uptick in COVID-19 cases, concern within its ranks. The number of COVID-19 patients at Maui Memorial Medical Center has risen to 17, with 1 in the intensive care unit, the Healthcare Association of Hawaii said. Hawaii News Now.

Hospital: Current 28-case surge different than previous outbreak. MMMC, Hale Makua each discuss their responses to uptick. Maui News.

Several clusters on Maui are being tracked by the state Department of Health, including small clusters arising from activity at a construction site. In another cluster, DOH officials say five Maui residents held a party on Oʻahu. Maui Now.

Kauai

Disputing path to beach access. Police were called on a group clearing a path commonly used for beach access that crosses private property yesterday. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i business owners who receive their goods weekly through Young Brothers shipping company are bracing themselves as Hawaii Public Utilities Commission announced on Monday their approval of Young Brothers’ emergency request to increase rates by 46% over the next 12 months. Garden Island.

Hawaii challenged by high cost of living, stagnant population, 325 jobs cut at Pearl Harbor as new drydock planned, Maui council shakeup, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Economists: High Living Costs Continue Driving Hawaii Residents Away. A new UH study predicts tourism to drive moderate growth in 2020, despite recent population declines. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Do Hawaii Folks Really Work 91 Hours A Week? A new study’s methodology is skewered, but our cost of living in general and housing in particular are certainly out of reach for many. Civil Beat.

Federal Policies Threaten Hawaii’s Flora, Fauna. Lack of scrutiny over invasive species threatens the Aloha State’s native wildlife. U.S. News and World Report.

New pot law goes into effect Jan. 11. Legislation passed by lawmakers earlier this year that decriminalizes the possession of three grams or less of marijuana and allows such past possessions to be expunged from criminal records will take effect early next year. Tribune-Herald.

Case throws liability for Hawaii charter schools in doubt. A $75,000 payment to settle a lawsuit filed by a woman who tripped and fell at Waimea Middle School is raising questions about who is liable for accidents at charter schools. Star-Advertiser.

Six Hawaii Companies Cited For Air Pollution Violations. Six Hawaii companies — half of which are electric companies — were fined for violating emission standards. Civil Beat.

Comedian Mel Cabang, who entertained Hawaii for decades, dies at age 77. Mel Cabang, one of Hawaii’s comedic legends, died Saturday in Las Vegas at age 77. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Pearl Harbor could get first new dry dock since 1943. A surge in demand for attack submarines and the lengthening of Virginia-class subs to carry more missiles has the Navy examining building its first new dry dock at Pearl Harbor since World War II or creating a 650-foot floating dry dock to better maintain its Pacific- based undersea fleet. Star-Advertiser.

Change in Navy contracting eliminates jobs at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Defense giant BAE Systems is exiting the surface ship repair business at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard after a more than 10-year run, eliminating about 325 jobs and leaving some uncertainty whether the work sometimes topping $50 million per ship can be fully retained in Hawaii under new Navy contracting terms. Star-Advertiser.

Sweep at Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor uncovers hundreds of violations. Illegal homeless encampments, derelict and sinking boats, and piles of smelly trash were back at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor only weeks after the state finished a November enforcement sweep that netted 550 violations. Star-Advertiser.

Irritated neighbors want to lower the boom on illegal fireworks. Oahu has long had a problem with illegal fireworks, especially the aerials that temporarily transform many neighborhoods into dazzling landscapes on New Year’s Eve but terrorize pets, frighten small children and stress residents — especially those with health problems — who aren’t into the booming celebrations. Star-Advertiser.

City auditor slams Honolulu Zoo. Despite the city’s efforts to regain accreditation for the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki attraction continues to be plagued by an ineffective and ill-defined relationship with the Honolulu Zoological Society, as well as operational deficiencies and staff shortages that have led to unnecessary overtime costs, according to a report released by the city auditor this month. Star-Advertiser.

Low Pay, Reputation Of Corruption Hinders Hiring at Honolulu Liquor Commission. The city agency charged with regulating Oahu’s liquor industry is struggling to fill positions. Civil Beat.

HPD to propose ban on so-called ‘ghost guns’ amid increase in gun violence. Ghost guns have no serial numbers so they’re impossible to track and you don’t need a background check to get one. And right now, they’re completely legal in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

In Waimanalo, residents battle illegal dumping blocks from free city trash center. Waimanalo residents say their neighborhood is being plagued by a series of illegal dump sites. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island continues to lead the state in population growth, but some of the 42 small towns that dot the island have seen population drop, according to detailed estimates released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau. West Hawaii Today.

Mauna Kea Status Report Given To BLNR After Follow-Up Audit. The annual report on the status of the implementation of the Mauna Kea Comprehensive Management Plan, or CMP, was on Friday’s agenda of the Hawaiʻi Board of Land and Natural Resources. Big Island Video News.

Police commission rejects complaint by retired sergeant. The Hawaii County Police Commission on Friday found insufficient evidence to support the allegations in a complaint made by a retired Hawaii Police Department sergeant concerning enhanced traffic enforcement that occurred on Daniel K. Inouye Highway between Aug. 15 and Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Group shows interest in opening new Ookala dairy. Although Big Island Dairy has “satisfactorily completed” all closure requirements set forth in an agreement with the state Department of Health, others have shown interest in the Ookala property for future dairy operations. Tribune-Herald.

Mass Transit moves forward with Pahoa bus hub. The Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency is taking the next steps for a new bus hub in Pahoa and will seek additional funding for the project from the County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Council Chair Kelly King to step down; Alice Lee tabbed to takeover. Her resignation comes on the heels of reports of dissatisfaction with her leadership. Maui News.

Maui Under the Influence Tow Bill Signed Into Law. With five days until Christmas and already 22 fatalities on Maui County roads, lawmakers passed an ordinance Friday aimed at keeping the roads safe from drunk and impaired drivers. Maui Now.

Lahaina gets a new $10M chocolate factory and cacao farm, with all the profits going to charity. It would be too indulgent to say that Hawaii is about to be drenched in locally made chocolate, but the fledgling industry is on the verge of a sweet surge with a $10 million factory slated for a public opening next month on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

‘Where am I gonna go’. Laws prohibiting unpermitted camping are enforced by county park rangers during frequent early morning raids at public spaces and ignored by prosecuting attorneys, who refuse to pursue cases against people whose only crime is not living in a house. Garden Island.

There's a free way to get around Kauai until Christmas. It's an offer that's part of recovery efforts after historic flooding on the island last year. KITV.

Hemp Growers Battle Both State Restrictions And Medical Skeptics. They hope the Legislature will move decisively to liberalize regulations that limit the marketing of hemp products. Civil Beat.

Saving Kanaele. Water was running in peaceful streams out of Kanaele after days of rains drenched Hawaii’s last, intact, lowland bog, protected on all sides by steep mountains and the Kauai Watershed Alliance’s first predator-proof fence. Garden Island.

Avain botulism taking a toll on endangered waterbirds. Since July, the team has found 140 sick or dead birds in the refuge, the majority being koloa ducks. Garden Island.

Court kicks Ala Wai project back for an EIS, Kauai councilman arrested, accused of assaulting traffic cop, state pays Honolulu to take over Kakaako parks, Maui mayor to sue fossil fuel companies over climate change, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Kayakers on the Ala Wai ©2019 All Hawaii News

Injunction stops funding for Ala Wai flood control project. A judge Tuesday issued an injunction stopping the city and state from funding a controversial flood control project that would build walls and berms around the Ala Wai Canal and put huge flood-control structures in the upper reaches of the watershed. Star-Advertiser.

Opponents of $350M Ala Wai flood control project secure a win in court. On Tuesday, state Circuit Court Judge Jeffrey Crabtree ruled that no money can be committed to the project until an Environmental Impact Statement is completed, which could take quite a bit more time. Hawaii News Now.

Judge's decision puts funding for controversial Ala Wai flood control project on hold. Opponents of the project said they're not against flood mitigation of the Ala Wai Canal, but they think there are alternative ways to go about it. KITV.

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‘Nation’s Report Card’ shows improvement for Hawaii students. Fourth graders in Hawaii’s public schools have caught up to the national average in reading and math on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, but eighth graders still lag their peers nationally. Star-Advertiser.

Why Hawaii Teens Have Some Of The Highest Vaping Rates In The Nation. Researchers say it’s a mixture of marketing and economics, plus Hawaii getting a head start on a trend that started in Asia. Civil Beat.

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Gov. Ige appoints former prisons director Ted Sakai to corrections oversight commission.  Gov. David Ige appointed former prisons director Ted Sakai to the new Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission. KHON2.

Ige Makes Appointment To Prison Oversight Panel. Ted Sakai has some 30 years of experience at the Department of Public Safety. Civil Beat.

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Federal Regulators Announce Rules for Commercial Hemp. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced new rules that help clear the way for commercial cultivation of hemp in the country, Hawaii  included. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

State pays city $2.25M to take over Kakaako parks with troubled reputation. After three years of back and forth, the Hawaii Community Development Authority has agreed to pay the city $2.25 million to take ownership of three troubled parks in Kakaako. Hawaii News Now.

HCDA To Transfer Kakaako Parcels To City. The makai land includes the Gateway and Waterfront parks. Civil Beat.

City takes over Kakaako parks; mayor says big fixes and funding preclude playground. The City and County of Honolulu officially takes over Kakaako makai parks this week, in one of Hawaii’s largest such land transfers. KHON2.

Kaka‘ako land transfer to be realized November 1. The historic transfer of public lands and facilities in one of the fastest growing areas of the state will be finalized and take effect on Friday. KITV.

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Mayor says no other target or subject letters from feds; city cooperating with subpoenas and warrants. Federal investigations have intersected with Honolulu Hale quite a bit recently, from the Kealoha case to the rail project.  KHON2.

Police outnumber demonstrators at Kahuku, Kalaeloa wind-farm protest sites. Demonstrators against the planned Na Pua Makani wind farm project remain resolute as the nightly transport of turbine parts to Kahuku continue. Star-Advertiser.

‘We trusted her’: Man explains how Katherine Kealoha abused his trust. Ransen Taito was just a child when he met Katherine Kealoha, a long time family friend who promised to help him and his younger sister after their father died in 2004. Hawaii News Now.

Navy's Proposed Fuel Tank Upgrades Get Cold Reception, Health Officials Seek Tougher Standards. A public meeting is scheduled next month on the U.S. Navy's proposed upgrades to its Red Hill fuel facility while a separate gathering is planned later this year on rule changes that would toughen standards for underground storage tanks. Hawaii Public Radio.

New proposal would require microchipping pets and raise fees for a lost pet. Under a new City Council proposal, pet owners would be required to microchip their dogs and cats. KHON2.

Zippy’s says stricter ban on plastics could cause closures. A stricter plastic ban is headed to a final reading at the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.

Community divided over Kaneohe cemetery’s plan to expand by 30 acres. After selling most of its burial plots, Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery in Kaneohe wants to expand its 156-acre cemetery by about 30 acres. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Puna Senator Puts Governor On The Spot Over Geothermal Reopening. State Senator Russell Ruderman sent a letter to Governor David Ige concerning the reopening of the Puna Geothermal Venture facility in his district. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Police Department looking for 47 new police officers. Think you got what it takes to wear the badge and blue? West Hawaii Today.

Building instability and moisture are resulting in extensive fog, ice and high humidity at the summit, forecasters say. Ice and snow can already be seen on observatory webcams. Ice was starting to cover the summit of Mauna Kea on Tuesday afternoon. Big Island Video News.

TMT official says Hawaii still preferred site, despite Spanish news report. The Thirty Meter Telescope remains committed to building on Maunakea, contrary to reports published in a Canary Islands newspaper. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County announces year-round vehicle disposal assistance program. Hawaii County is resuming an amnesty program to help subsidize disposal costs for residents wanted to dispose of unwanted vehicles. West Hawaii Today.

Geologists sample growing pond in Halema‘uma‘u. U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory on Saturday collected samples from the growing water pond in Kilauea volcano’s Halema‘uma‘u crater. Tribune-Herald.

County Recycling Cutbacks A Sign Of Global Market Changes. When China and other Asian nations curtailed dirty recycling streams, the county’s recycling contractor saw markets dry up, forcing residents to seek alternatives. Civil Beat.

Maui

Maui Mayor Plans To Sue Fossil Fuel Companies For Climate Change Damage. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino announced plans Tuesday to sue fossil fuel companies that he says are responsible for climate change-related damage to roads and other infrastructure, but there are challenges. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui County Plans Lawsuit Against Fossil Fuel Companies. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino today announced his intent for Maui County to file a lawsuit against fossil fuel companies for what he called “mounting impacts of climate change and rising sea levels.” Maui Now.

Maui County to sue fossil fuel companies over costs of climate change. Maui County plans to sue fossil fuel companies to seek compensation for the mounting costs of climate change, which officials say are already being felt. Hawaii News Now.

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New Lawsuit Filed In Maui County’s Supreme Court Showdown. The latest legal action asks a state court judge to allow the Maui County Council to settle the case before it has the potential to carve a giant loophole into the Clean Water Act. Civil Beat.

Conservation positions open at park, sanctuary. Kupu is looking for individuals passionate about preserving the natural environment at Haleakala National Park and Kanaha Pond Wildlife Sanctuary. Maui News.


Kauai

Kauai County councilman arrested, accused of assaulting a police officer. County officials say Arthur Brun was booked Tuesday afternoon. Sources say Brun was wanted for drug-related charges. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai councilmember arrested following traffic stop. Kauai police arrested a Kauai County councilman Tuesday afternoon after he attempted to flee from police during a traffic stop. Garden Island.

Kauai County councilman allegedly hits police officer with car. Kauai police arrested Tuesday afternoon a 47-year-old Waimea man who allegedly struck a police officer with a car while trying to flee during a traffic stop. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai councilman accused of hitting officer with vehicle. Kauai police arrested a county councilman Tuesday afternoon after authorities say he attempted to flee from police during a traffic stop. KHON2.

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Spectrum says services fully restored. Kauai got its regular internet, phone and cable TV back Monday night, but exactly what went wrong with the undersea fiber optic cable connecting the island to Oahu and the rest of the world remains unclear, and there is no firm timeline for repairs. Garden Island.

Molokai

Discounted prescription drug program on Molokai in limbo. Contract ends between Molokai health center, only independent pharmacy on island, Molokai Drugs. Maui News.

Lanai

Revamped Lanai hotel ready to welcome guests — starting at $2,700 a day. Lanai is about to be an island anchored by two luxury resorts — again. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii on list of possible G7 summit sites, Ige attending Naruhito’s enthronement, Kealohas to enter guilty pleas, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Convention Center ©2019 All Hawaii News

Next year's G7 summit could be coming to the islands. White House officials confirmed Hawaii was on the short list of locations being considered, prior to the President dropping plans to hold the international conference at his Miami resort. Hawaii News Now.

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Gov. David Ige to attend Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement ceremony in Japan. Hawaii Gov. David Ige is one of the honored guests attending Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement ceremony, heralding his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne, on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Heads To Japan For Enthronement Ceremony. Lt. Gov. Josh Green is Hawaii’s acting governor until Friday. Civil Beat.

Ige travels to Japan for ceremony. The governor is one of seven Japanese-Americans who have been invited to the enthronement ceremony at the Imperial Palace today. Garden Island.

Governor Ige Travels to Japan for Enthronement Ceremony. Maui Now.

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Emergency Relief Period Extended For Homelessness. In his capacity as acting governor, Lt. Gov. Joshua Green issued a sixth supplementary proclamation that extends the disaster emergency relief period for homelessness across the state. Big Island Now.

Hotel performance tops nation but occupancy remains flat. Healthy September hotel performance helped push Hawaii’s hotel industry to the top of the nation for the first nine months of the year. Star-Advertiser.

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Marine Sanctuary Seeks Advisory Council Candidates. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is seeking to fill ten primary and 9 alternate seats on its advisory council. Maui Now.

New Council Members Appointed for Humpback Whale Sanctuary. The NOAA Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary has appointed four new primary members and one alternate member to serve on its advisory council. Big Island Now.

Oahu

More Candidates Enter Race For Honolulu Prosecutor. Deputy public defender Jacquelyn Esser makes it official while attorney Tae Kim files campaign paperwork. Civil Beat.

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Kealohas are expected to plead guilty as part of plea deals. Louis and Katherine Kealoha are scheduled to appear in court today to plead guilty to federal felony charges as part of separate plea agreements, ending a years-long prosecution that toppled one of Oahu’s most prominent power couples. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Police Chief Agrees To Plead Guilty To Bank Fraud. Louis Kealoha’s plea deal will keep him from a trial that had been set for January. It comes a day after his wife, Katherine, signed her own agreement. Civil Beat.

Kealohas each sign separate plea deals. First, it was Katherine Kealoha agreeing to a plea deal, now her former police chief husband Louis, who has filed for divorce, finalized his own plea deal Monday afternoon. KHON2.

Attorney with ties to Kealoha scandal suspended indefinitely. The court says attorney Christopher Woo failed to respond to four unrelated complaints for abandoning clients and financial irregularities. Woo previously represented Big Island firefighter Jesse Ebersole, who admitted to having an affair with Katherine Kealoha after lying about it to a grand jury. Hawaii News Now.

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3 wind farm protesters arrested in Kalaeloa as turbine parts leave for Kahuku. Wind turbine parts loaded onto four semi trucks began leaving the AES Corp.’s Kalaeloa yard at 11:17 p.m. Monday and were out in less than 15 minutes. Star-Advertiser.

Handful of arrests made as crews move swiftly to transport wind farm equipment to Kahuku. Crews moved swiftly once again early Tuesday to transport heavy equipment into a construction site for a wind farm project in Kahuku after more arrests were made. Hawaii News Now.

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Arguments continue in Ala Wai project lawsuit. The nonprofit Protect Our Ala Wai Watersheds went to court Monday to stop the city and and state from “prematurely obligating public funds” for a controversial flood control project that would build walls and berms around the Ala Wai Canal and put huge flood-control structures in the upper reaches of the watershed. Star-Advertiser.

Community group heads to court to fight Ala Wai flood project. A judge on Monday listened to opening statements and witness testimony for a motion seeking a preliminary injunction to stop the Ala Wai flood project. Hawaii News Now.

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Plan To Award Rail’s Final Contract Reaches Point Of No Return. HART is no longer considering a Plan B in case its pursuit of a public private partnership fails to get rail done. Civil Beat.

Rail project discussed at City Council Tuesday. Two rail-related measures seeking more accountability in the multibillion-dollar project will be up for discussion at a Honolulu City Council committee meeting Tuesday. KHON2.

Councilwoman wants more transparency in 2 Honolulu rail programs. Councilwoman Heidi Tsuneyoshi on Monday linked concerns over the city’s rail project to frustrations that have led to mass arrests at Mauna Kea, Waimanalo’s Sherwood Forest and the Kahuku wind farm. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Councilmember Calls For More Transparency From Rail Project. Honolulu Councilmember Heidi Tsuneyoshi has submitted two resolutions to urge the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, and the administration, to be more open with the Council and the public. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

DHHL committee to consider hiring private attorney. The Hawaiian Homes Commission took the first step Monday to hire an outside attorney to put a dollar figure on what the state owes Native Hawaiian beneficiaries for land, including the Maunakea Access Road, that was the subject of a 1995 state law. West Hawaii Today.

Halealoha Ayau Testifies, Resigns DHHL Position. Outspoken on the issue of the Mauna Kea Access Road jurisdiction, Ayau said he is resigning from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands due to "shame" over the department's actions. Big Island Video News.

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Changes to county hiring code eyed. The county Human Resources Department scheduled a public hearing for 1 p.m. Friday on changes to its hiring code giving the HR Department more centralized control over creating ranked lists of eligible candidates to be referred to the hiring departments. West Hawaii Today.

Public positive about solar project proposed for Keaau. A lot between Keaau High School and Hawaiian Paradise Park could become the home of a 350-acre solar array by 2022. Tribune-Herald.

Mokulele to provide Waimea Essential Air Service through June 2021. The U.S. Department of Transportation re-selected the air carrier earlier this summer to provide essential air service for two years between Waimea-Kohala Airport and Kahului Airport. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

High temperature sets record in Kahului. Central Maui experienced another hot weekend as temperatures in Kahului reached 95 degrees Sunday, breaking the old record of 93 set on the same date in 1996, according to the National Weather Service. Maui News.

Fates of freshwater, saltwater intertwined. Wai.Kai Week targets relationship between streams and the ocean. Maui News.

Kauai

Council to consider money requests. Items on the agenda include a bill for an amendment for funding, $625,000, for emergency work in opening the river mouth in Waimea and to establish funding for such work through the end of the fiscal year, including design and maintenance of levy gates to relieve and avoid flooding. Garden Island.

Kapaa traffic solutions update. Larry Dill, Kauai District engineer, Hawaii Department of Transportation, will be the featured speaker at the Wailua-Kapaa Neighborhood Association’s meeting 2 p.m. Saturday at the Kapaa Public Library. Garden Island.

Trump administration sued over coral decline, Tulsi Gabbard threatens debate boycott, calls DNC primary 'rigged,' Oahu landfill approved, Maui bus hub running late, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cauliflower coral in Hawaii ©2019 All Hawaii News

Trump Sued For Failing To Protect Hawaii’s Cauliflower Coral. A “marine heat wave” is blamed for a 36% decline of the species. Civil Beat.

Trump administration sued over Hawaii’s cauliflower coral. The Center for Biological Diversity sued the Trump administration Thursday for failing to protect cauliflower coral around the Hawaiian Islands, the nonprofit group said in a news release. West Hawaii Today.

The Trump administration caught another lawsuit as a strong marine heat wave is starting to impact Hawaii’s coral reefs, including reports of coral bleaching on Kauai. Garden Island.

Lawsuit Alleges Failure to Protect Hawai‘i Cauliflower Coral. Maui Now.

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Tulsi Gabbard says process is ‘rigged,’ threatens to boycott presidential debate. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard says she may boycott next week’s Democratic presidential debate telling supporters in a videotaped message Thursday that the Democratic National Committee and corporate media “are rigging the election.” Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Threatens To Boycott Presidential Debate. The Hawaii congresswoman, who says the current political system is “rigged,” will make her decision in the coming days. Civil Beat.

Gabbard threatens to boycott the debate she worked hard to get into. Claiming a “rigged” primary process, presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard says she’s seriously considering boycotting the next Democratic presidential debate. Hawaii News Now.

Long-Shot 2020 Candidate Gabbard May Skip Democratic Debate. The Hawaii congresswoman complained in a Twitter message on Thursday about the Democratic National Committee's use of polling to determine debate participants and said the debates are "meant to entertain, not inform or enlighten." Associated Press.

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State lawmakers set vaping-awareness meeting. The state House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce and the state Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection and Health Committee will hold an informational briefing on the youth vaping epidemic at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, in room 309 at the State Capitol. Garden Island.

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Ige Appoints Hara To Be Hawaii Adjutant General. He is to replace Maj. Gen. Arthur “Joe” Logan, who is retiring. Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Thursday announced the appointment of Brig. Gen. Kenneth S. Hara to be the adjutant general for the state of Hawaii Department of Defense. Civil Beat.

Brig. Gen. Hara Appointed Adjutant General For Hawaiʻi. The man who served as the Dual Status Commander of Joint Task Force 5-0 during the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea volcano will now be the Adjutant General for the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Defense. Big Island Video News.

Newly appointed state adjutant general to step into role in December. Brig. Gen. Kenneth S. Hara is slated to serve as the state’s adjutant general, overseeing the Hawaii Department of Defense, effective Dec. 6. Hawaii News Now.

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Union alleges private security firm owes airport workers nearly $1M. Hundreds of private security and traffic control officers at Honolulu’s five major airports are seeking nearly $1 million in back raises from private firm Securitas. Hawaii News Now.

Labor union seeks $1M in back pay. A labor union representing over 1,000 airport security officers in Hawaii is asking a federal judge to force a company to pay $1 million in back pay to hundreds of employees. Garden Island.

Hawai‘i Gas Prices Inch Down. Gas prices in many areas inched downward in the last week, according to the AAA Hawaiʻi Weekend Gas Watch. Today’s statewide average price is $3.67 a gallon, which is one cent lower than last Thursday, one cent higher than a month ago and 19 cents lower than on this date a year ago, according to GasPrices.AAA.com. Maui Now.

Oahu

Land Use Commission grants OK for landfill to continue. The city will need to close the contentious Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill at Kahe Point by March 2, 2028, under a permit granted by the state Land Use Commission Thursday by a 6-2 vote. Star-Advertiser.

Waimanalo Gulch Landfill Would Close By 2028 Under New Land Use Permit. The state Land Use Commission gave the city until then to find a new site for a landfill, which has been an issue on Oahu’s Leeward Coast for decades. Civil Beat.

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Long-awaited Ala Wai canal dredging gets underway this month. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is starting a $21 million-plus Ala Wai dredging project this month — good news for those who have been waiting nearly two decades to get relief from the buildup of sludge, sediment and debris in the man-made canal. Star-Advertiser.

$21 Million Dredging, Improvement Work Set For Ala Wai. The project, the first dredging of the canal since 2002, will last a year. Civil Beat.

Ala Wai Canal dredging and improvement project expected to begin in late October. KITV.

A project designed to protect parts of urban Honolulu from climate-related flooding has sparked community disagreement. The Ala Wai Flood Control Project has been heralded by elected officials at all levels of government as a way to protect some of Hawaii’s most valuable real estate from a devastating flood. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Honolulu Airport Parking Reaching Capacity And Electric Vehicles Are A Big Reason. The Hawaii Department of Transportation on Thursday urged travelers going to the Daniel K. Inouye Honolulu Airport to leave their cars at home and have someone drop them off as the parking structures are reaching capacity. Hawaii Public Radio.

Skyrocketing electric bills have Ewa residents demanding audit. Several Kapilina Beach Homes residents voiced their concerns of surging electric bills to the Ewa Neighborhood Board meeting Thursday night. Hawaii News Now.

How Honolulu’s Japanese, Spurned At The Library, Made Their Own Bookstore Culture. When Honolulu’s library first opened, it ignored the needs of Japanese readers. In response, Japanese shop owners stepped up to provide books. Civil Beat.

City council suggests residents get Real ID sooner rather than later. Honolulu city councilmember Ron Menor introduced a new resolution on Wednesday, urging the public to get the star marking on their ID’s sooner rather than later. KHON2.

18-year-old named youngest Honolulu City Council neighborhood board member. City Councilmember Tommy Waters says she represents a new generation of young adults hoping to shape the future. KITV.

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Ron’s Performance Center closing after 52 years. Ron’s Performance Center, a retailer that has sold and installed custom auto parts and accessories for 52 years, is closing Oct. 31. Star-Advertiser.

After 50 years, Hawaii’s largest performance parts warehouse calls it quits. The owners of the Sand Island auto parts store say business has been declining ever since the closure of the race track in 2006. Hawaii News Now.

Ron’s Performance Center to close after 52 years. The long-time family business has been a staple in the car community for decades. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Three Ka‘u locations recommended for conservation funding. Three properties in the Ka‘u District of Hawaii Island are among five the Legacy Land Conservation Commission identified as its top priorities for acquisition with the purpose of preservation for Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Lands Recommended For Legacy Land Conservation Grants. Three properties in Kaʻu have been identified by the Legacy Land Conservation Commission as priories for protection. Big Island Video News.

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Hawaii County police issue 4,632 tickets in areas around the TMT protests. Hawaii County police officers deployed in the area around the Mauna Kea protest camp have issued 4,632 citations during a stepped-up enforcement program on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway during the past eight weeks, police announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Police: 4,632 citations issued, 46 arrested amid stepped-up traffic enforcement near Maunakea Access Road. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New bus hub won’t be done by lease end. County officials in talks with shopping center about 1-year extension. Maui News.

September Maui home sales mixed. Maui single-family home sales soared 47.5% in September but the overall housing market was mixed, according to data released Thursday by the Realtors Association of Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Westside farmers market accepts EBT. You can now use Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamps) cards for local produce at the Westside Hale Puna farmers market. Garden Island.