Showing posts with label Alexander & Baldwin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alexander & Baldwin. Show all posts

Friday, November 5, 2021

Hawaii Supreme Court strikes down 'gut and replace' practice, U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee approves Connor as U.S. Attorney, $800M could come to Thirty Meter Telescope following new report, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Hawaii Supreme Court ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Supreme Court strikes down ‘gut and replace’ legislative lawmaking practice. The state Supreme Court on Thursday dealt a blow to the legislative lawmaking practice known as “gut and replace,” ruling that the Legislature is required to hold three separate hearings in both the House and the Senate after a bill no longer resembles its original intent. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press.

Senate Judiciary approves Clare Connors as U.S. attorney for Hawaii. The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee today approved President Joe Biden’s nomination of Clare Connors to be the next U.S. attorney for Hawaii. The nomination now goes to the full Senate. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.

The DOE Hopes A New Campaign Will Help Recruit Teachers To Hawaii. The goal isn’t only getting teachers to the islands but also persuading them to stay by providing mentors and facts about the high cost of living. Civil Beat.

Wespac’s Fight Against Marine Monuments Is All About Protecting The Fishing Industry. The council’s leaders have done everything they can to stop presidents from creating monuments in the Pacific. Members of Congress have put forward a way to curb the lobbying. Civil Beat.

Advocates: Court Deal A Win For Endangered ‘I‘iwi Bird. The deal announced in U.S. District Court on Thursday comes after the Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit to compel the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to designate that critical ‘i‘iwi habitat. Civil Beat.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. doubles profit amid improving economy. Honolulu-based Alexander & Baldwin Inc. on Thursday reported earning $6.5 million in the July-September period, up from $3.2 million in the same quarter of 2020. Star-Advertiser.

Will proof of COVID vaccination be required for young children in Hawaii? 
Now that COVID vaccines for kids aged five to 11 are available, the governor’s office said the focus is on getting them vaccinated. Then, proof of vaccination for this age bracket will follow, but there is no timeline or plan on when that will happen. KHON2.

Impact of new federal COVID-19 vaccine rule not as severe in Hawaii.
The emergency rule announced Thursday by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration applies to private employers with at least 100 workers, and will require these businesses to ensure all employees on the job either are fully vaccinated or get tested at least weekly and wear a face covering at work. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii records 13 new coronavirus-related deaths, 112 additional infections.
The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 57 new cases on Oahu, 28 on Hawaii Island, 18 on Maui, 7 on Kauai and two Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Issues New Proposal To Crack Down On Short-Term Rentals. Under the new bill, some people will be allowed to stay in short-term vacation units for less than 180 days, including full-time students and temporary medical workers. Civil Beat.

Honolulu to open driver licensing centers on Saturdays to help ease backlog. The city is opening two busy driver licensing centers on Saturdays through the end of the year to accommodate the backlog of customers needing services. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Trace levels of contaminants detected in two Oahu drinking water sources. State health officials said trace levels of contaminants have been detected in water samples collected at two Oahu drinking water sources, but remain safe to drink. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. KITV4.

West Oʻahu residents and visitors have more care options during a medical emergency.
Starting this week, West O‘ahu residents and visitors will have more options when they have a medical emergency. An ambulance can take a patient to the Straub Kapolei Clinic and Urgent Care Center at Ka Makana Ali‘i if suitable. Hawaii Public Radio.

COVID vaccine for pets coming soon; Honolulu zoo waiting on permits for experimental shot. The death of the 13-year-old African male lion Ekundu at the Honolulu Zoo in mid-October has some people asking when the COVID vaccine will be available for their animals. KHON2.

Large cruise ship from Los Angeles to dock at Honolulu Harbor.
The state Department of Transportation said the Royal Princess will dock on Saturday and depart on Sunday to refuel and for provisions. The ship is coming from Los Angeles and has 177 crew members on board — all of whom are vaccinated. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Thirty Meter Telescope gets juice from federal report recommending additional funds. The Thirty Meter Telescope scored a significant victory Thursday when a federal report ranked the proposed cutting-edge observatory and its U.S.-led cousin, the Giant Magellan Telescope, planned for Chile, among its top priorities for U.S. government funding. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.

Could take ‘four or five years’ for TMT to receive funding. Despite a strong recommendation that the federal government provide funding to the Thirty Meter Telescope, it likely will take at least “four or five years” before that project receives the money. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Housing list to prioritize locals draws concerns. An affordable housing list aimed at getting more local people into homes and giving priority to longer-term Maui residents is drawing concern from the development community and the county department that would potentially oversee it. Maui News.

The Anatomy of a Land Development: How a Housing Proposal in Waiehu Came About. The Waiehu project, a partnership between the California-based Highridge Costa and Maui Economic Opportunity, will consist of 120 multi-family residential units, housed in 13 two-story buildings, including 28 one-bedroom units, 60 two-bedroom units, and 32 three-bedroom units, as well as a 3,477 square foot non-profit building, a 3,231 square foot clubhouse, landscaping, and related improvements. Maui Now.

Maui Public Health Rules to be Revised in Accordance with Ige’s Executive Order. Governor David Ige’s office has asked Mayor Michael Victorino to amend his recent request to revise Maui County’s emergency public health rules to conform with the Governor’s Executive Order #21-08 announced yesterday, that will go into effect on Nov. 12. Maui Now.

Traffic debate grows over multi-lane roundabout to be built on busy Maui highway. Plans are underway for the state’s first multiple-lane roundabout. It will be located at the entrance of the new Kihei High School on Piilani Highway in South Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Council moves cesspool bill forward. A county program to utilize over $1 million in forgivable loans to covert or close existing cesspools is one step closer to becoming law. Garden Island.

DLNR calls on riders to stop illegally driving, biking through state land on Kauai. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources issued a warning to dirt bike and ATV riders who have been racing through state land on Kauai. Officials said riders have been illegally driving and biking in the the area between Kokee State Park and Kekaha on both sides of Highway 552. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Symposium will dive into mysteries of humpback whales. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary will hold its first-ever research symposium today and Friday, one month after Kaua‘i boaters spied the first whales of the season off the Na Pali Coast. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 8, 2019

Sanders out-raising Gabbard in her home state, HART employees questioned in federal probe, Mauna Kea roadblock protest costs taxpayers, Kauai advances guest house bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photos
Bernie Sanders, Tulsi Gabbard campaign photos
It’s Gabbard’s Home Turf, But Sanders Is Raising More Money From Hawaii Donors. The Hawaii congresswoman is second and President Donald Trump comes in third, but many of his contributions are too small to be tallied. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers’ Financial Disclosures Don’t Always Paint A Complete Picture. Sen. Russell Ruderman, who owns health foods stores, was the only lawmaker to report more than $1 million in outside income last year. Several of his colleagues reported no income beyond their legislative salaries. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's CBD Industry Grows As State Opts To Educate Before It Imposes Fines. It's illegal in Hawaii to manufacture, distribute or sell products containing cannibidiol or CBD but that hasn't stopped businesses from setting up shop in the islands. Civil Beat.

Want To Serve On Hawaii’s Land Board? The governor is recruiting for the state Board of Land and Natural Resources. Civil Beat.

Oahu

HART employees to be questioned in federal probe. The agency overseeing construction of the city’s $9.2 billion rail system already was slammed with three federal subpoenas for records, and now several employees have been served subpoenas and asked to meet with federal investigators about possible wrongdoing and irregularities. Star-Advertiser.

Council Chair’s Proposal To Kill HART Dies Its Own Early Death. The proposed resolution would have allowed voters to decide whether to end HART, but it didn’t clear its first reading. Civil Beat.

HART budgeting to fix cracks found in West Oahu rail stations. Honolulu’s embattled rail project is already in need of repairs, and it isn’t even fully operable yet. The rail authority says it’s setting aside $10 million to fix cracks discovered at canopy arms at its West Oahu rail stations. Hawaii News Now.

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City Council once again looking at banning styrofoam containers and plastic utensils. The City Council is looking at banning single-use plastic utensils and bags. The bill passed its first reading Wednesday. If adopted, the ban could take affect as early as January. KHON2.

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Efforts re-launched to impeach Kaneshiro after e-signatures denied. If the impeachment is accomplished by December 31, the vacancy is filled by special election. KITV.

Katherine Kealoha will not get a new trial for now. U.S. District Chief Judge J. Michael Seabright on Wednesday decided not to hear a motion for a new trial before Kealoha is sentenced in October for conspiracy and obstruction of justice. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha Suit Against City, Ethics Commission Cost Over $355K. The invoice represents only some of the city’s Kealoha-related legal costs. Civil Beat.

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Financial impacts of short term rental law. While inventory goes up, prices could be going down. KITV.

Kailua woman on a fixed income fears new vacation rental rules will have a domino effect. For the past several years, Fabienne Melchior has rented the top floor of her Kailua home to tourists, charging $160 a day. Hawaii News Now.

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Police hunting for arsonist. An arsonist, who is believed to have set three Waikiki hotel fires in three days, is still on the loose and police are asking the public’s assistance to help find a “person of interest,” whose image was captured on surveillance video taken at the scene of the crimes. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Authorities Seek 'Person of Interest' In Arsons At 3 Waikiki Hotels. Associated Press.

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Another Hawaiian monk seal accidentally hooked by a fisherman has been rescued, treated and released, according to federal wildlife officials. Star-Advertiser.

Local fisherman reports accidental monk seal hooking, saves the endangered animal. Once he cut the line, he called the Hawaiian monk seal response team. KITV.

Hawaii Island

More complete numbers coming for TMT-related costs. The Hawaii County Council Finance Committee on Tuesday discussed a possible financial report of the county’s expenses relating to the ongoing standoff on Maunakea, but meaningful numbers will not be available until later this month. Tribune-Herald.

Law enforcement costs associated with TMT conflict are mounting. The costs of assigning law enforcement to a protest at the base of Mauna Kea are mounting, leaving some concerned about how taxpayers will cover the tab. Hawaii News Now.

Mauna Kea Observatory’s New Instrument Stuck In Hilo. The East Asian Observatory had hoped to install its new Namakanui instrument on Mauna Kea by now, but the conflict over the Thirty Meter Telescope has altered that plan. Big Island Video News.

Frustration mounts for Mauna Kea telescopes. The existing 13 telescopes atop Mauna Kea remain shuttered and unable to function as the Thirty Meter Telescope protest continues into its fourth week at the base of the mountain. Star-Advertiser.

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Eruption recovery manager faces questions and criticism from council members. An interim strategy to help the county recover after the 2018 Kilauea volcano eruption is still being developed, but the recovery process has frustrated and concerned some county leaders and community members. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Council Losing Patience With Lava Recovery Process. Puna councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz said she is tired of the process, tired of the system, and tired of the apologies. Big Island Video News.

Council advances changes to Kona CDP. The County Council on Wednesday tightened government oversight before unanimously moving to a final reading a package of changes that some community members say will weaken the Kona Community Development Plan. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

All proceeds from former sugar land sale invested. Alexander & Baldwin’s second quarter report last week contained information on a couple of Maui projects, including the sale of the final 22 units in the 170-unit Kamalani workforce development in Kihei and the near completion of the first phase of the Hookele Shopping Center in the Maui Business Park. Maui News.

Panel: More money, more problems with wage hikes. Economic experts discuss living wage at chamber installation. Maui News.

Arson Investigation Launched, $20K Damage at Wailuku Parole Facility. Maui Now.

Kauai

Bill revising ‘guest house’ definition advances. Homeowners and landlords are one step closer to being allowed to contain kitchens in their guest houses. Garden Island.

PMRF Change of Command set for Friday. Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, will hold a change-of-command ceremony Friday at the hangar bay on base. Garden Island.

Capt. Vincent Johnson leaves as commander of PMRF. Sitting on the shady Shenanigan’s patio days before the change of command at Pacific Missile Range Facility, Capt. Vincent Johnson said he’s not ready to say goodbye to the island he’s grown to love. Garden Island.

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Water rights at issue in Legislature, taxing REITs, lava-locked residents finally go home, more seniors seek medical marijuana, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Freshwater stream enters the ocean at Kawa Bay ©2019 All Hawaii News
Battle over water rights once again comes to a head at state Legislature. On Tuesday, lawmakers will hear a bill that would extend temporary permits for seven years to big water users like Alexander and Baldwin, giving them more time to get water leases. Hawaii News Now.

Water bill appears to give A&B a financial break. A state measure that would give an assortment of large landowners, agricultural concerns and electrical utilities seven more years to meet stricter requirements for access to public water appears to give one particular company a huge break. Star-Advertiser.

Opponents Want Accountability As Hawaii Lawmakers Consider Extension of Water Diversions. State lawmakers are weighing a bill that would allow a dozen private users statewide, including Alexander and Baldwin, to continue to divert fresh stream water temporarily. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Hawaii Legislature to consider bills on asset forfeiture and water leases. State lawmakers have scheduled hearings on bills that would reform Hawaii’s civil asset forfeiture program, allow developers to build solar farms on prime agricultural land and extend the period of time that companies and farming interests have to comply with a deadline for obtaining water leases as a Friday deadline approaches for moving bills out of their final committee. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s fastest-growing set of medical cannabis users are over 66. The average age of Hawaii’s pot patients is 51, and those between the ages of 56 and 65 are the largest population of medical marijuana users statewide, Health Department statistics show. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers Revive Bail Reform Efforts To Reduce Overcrowding. Several criminal justice measures are still alive and will likely be hashed out in Senate-House conference committees. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers to consider PSD Director's future. A Senate committee will discuss the future of Director Nolan Espinda later this week. Senator Clarence Nishihara has been collecting evidence and reports for Espinda's confirmation hearing, scheduled for this Thursday. KHON2.

Rifles bought for deputy sheriffs never distributed because they violate state’s own policy. Taxpayers have built an arsenal of long guns for the Public Safety Department in recent years, but dozens of those firearms are just collecting dust in the armory because the state’s own policy doesn’t allow them to be used. Hawaii News Now.

Gun owners in federal suit: Hawaii’s open carry law amounts to a ban. Gun owners are taking aim at Hawaii’s open carry law, saying it’s unconstitutional. Hawaii News Now.

Programs that depend on state money to serve Hawaii's homeless rallied Monday. Nonprofits say it can be difficult to work with homeless long term if they're constantly worried about not being able to sustain themselves the next year. KITV.

Bill to tax Hawaii REITs clears final committee. A bill that would eliminate the corporate income tax deduction on dividends paid by real estate investment trusts in Hawaii cleared its final committee and is headed for passage by the state House of Representatives. Pacific Business News.

Charter School Clampdown Has Educators Worried About Their Independence. Versions of a measure giving the state some financial oversight of the schools have cleared both chambers. Opponents say it takes away their autonomy. Civil Beat.

Lofty hopes and dreams in Legislature coming down to reality as session progresses. Star-Advertiser.

Governor encourages residents to ‘invest the time’ to participate in 2020 census. The Census won’t happen for another year, but Hawaii leaders are already putting in the work to ensure every Hawaii resident is counted. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige Announces 2020 Census Count Committee. The committee is charged with increasing awareness about the importance of being counted; organizing state resources effectively and cost-efficiently to promote the count; and improving the response rate for the 2020 Census questionnaire. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Honolulu police chief is pressed on handgun carry permits. The Honolulu Police Commission was mostly effusive in its praise of Police Chief Susan Ballard in the first-year review that was released recently, but key members are clearly troubled by the answers she’s given them on the Police Department’s policy regarding handgun carry permits. Star-Advertiser.

Duo curbs helping Kakaako’s homeless. Under the threat of state Health Department fines of up to $1,000 per violation, a Kaimuki couple who used to provide meals and hot showers to homeless people around Kakaako Waterfront Park is backing down and looking for a different spot. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kipuka residents rejoice as PGV opens graded route over lava channel. More than 30 residents of a lava-locked kipuka in lower Puna drove across the lava channel from last year’s Kilauea eruption Monday to return to their homes. Tribune-Herald.

Joyous Moment As Lava-Locked Residents Regain Access. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County officials say they were unaware that federal officials are considering moving the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory off the island where there are erupting volcanos. The possibility of the relocation came to light last week during a U.S. Senate confirmation hearing for David Bernhardt, the nominee for secretary of the Department of  Interior. Hawaii Public Radio.

Volcano Observatory Future Discussed With Scientist-In-Charge. Big Island Video News.

Time is ticking down for a handful of bills that would impact the Big Island to secure their final committee hearings in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Sold. Big Island Now.

Maui


Public Works, Environmental Management Director Appointees Announced. Mayor Michael Victorino announced Monday afternoon that Rowena Dagdag-Andaya and Eric Nakagawa are his nominees as directors of the departments of Public Works and Environmental Management, respectively. Maui Now.

Four promoted to fire captain. Four Maui Fire Department firefighters have been promoted to captain and six have been promoted to firefighter III. Maui News.

Volunteers count on whales showing up. Volunteers look for whales off Maui on Saturday during Pacific Whale Foundation’s Great Whale Count. A total of 219 whales were seen off Maui from 12 sites. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines Launches Kahului to Sacramento Non-Stop Flights. Hawaiian Airlines today launched daily, nonstop service between Kahului, Maui and Sacramento, giving West Coast travelers enhanced access to the Valley Isle. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Hawaii Lodging &Tourism Association, in partnership with the Hawaii Tourism Authority, distributed $38,000 in grants to seven nonprofits on Kauai during a ceremony Monday at the Kauai Marriott Resort &Beach Club. Garden Island.

Developer faces more litigation. A real estate developer, whose long-delayed timeshare proposal on Kauai faces mounting financial trouble, is struggling to cover debts on projects on the mainland as well. Garden Island.

After more than a decade of dreaming, Kauai Community College is composting. It’s a grassroots effort started by a few professors and Emily Broderick’s biology class, combining movement toward a more sustainable campus with lessons on the scientific method. Garden Island.

Friday, December 21, 2018

Surfrider grades beaches, Oahu getting major military projects, Alexander & Baldwin sells 41k acres of Maui sugar land, Big Island residents oppose vaccinations, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Girl playing on Waikiki beach ©2018 All Hawaii News
Hawaii received a C-plus in the Surfrider Foundation’s annual State of the Beach Report Card, which grades 30 U.S. states and the territory of Puerto Rico on policies that address climate change, shoreline erosion and extreme weather. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has joined forces with various marine and animal protection organizations to make it easier for people to report illegal aquarium collecting activity across the state. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii-based marine and animal protection organizations have joined forces with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources to make it easier for people to report illegal aquarium collecting activity across the state. Garden Island.

NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary reminds the public that humpback whale season in Hawaii is underway. Maui Now.

U.S. Commission on Civil Rights now supports federal recognition of Native Hawaiians. In a major reversal, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is supporting federal recognition of Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Pentagon awards contract for powerful missile radar defense system on Oahu.  The Missile Defense Agency has awarded Lockheed Martin a $585 million contract to design and build a powerful ballistic missile radar defense system on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

New $680M Coast Guard cutter arriving in Honolulu. The first of two new $680 million Coast Guard cutters is expected to arrive in Honolulu Saturday, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Police Chief: Sharing Information With Kaneshiro Not In City’s ‘Best Interest’. Mayor’s office is “seriously considering” Susan Ballard’s request that the prosecuting attorney be excluded from public safety meetings because of reports he’s under investigation. Civil Beat.

Here’s the email the police chief sent to the city about Honolulu’s prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

Citing what it said were the lowest fees in conferences it competes in, the University of Hawaii athletic department began laying the ground work for raising the mandatory athletic fee it charges students. Star-Advertiser.

String of major storms proved fatal blow to popular Nalo Farms. Repeated bouts of severe weather has lead to the closure of Nalo Farms. Hawaii News Now.

Nalo Farms closes business after being impacted by April's heavy rains. A well-known Waimanalo farm impacted by last April's heavy rains is now shut down for good. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Public testifiers spoke out in opposition to immunization and examination requirements for school attendance in Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

It's a Big Island power plant, but now an Oahu County political party is getting involved. Thursday night, the Oahu County Committee on Legislative Priorities is holding a public event to talk about Hu Honua Bioenergy power plant. KITV.

A crew is working to remove a derelict boat that’s been sitting on the makai side of Queen Kaahumanu Highway, south of Kua Bay, for more than a month. West Hawaii Today.

Charter Commission chairman to speak in Honokaa. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A&B sells all of its farm holdings for $262 million. Alexander & Baldwin, which grew sugar cane on Maui for 150 years and ceased operations in 2016, is leaving agriculture behind on the island, announcing the sale of its 41,000 acres of farm land for $262 million to a farming venture between a California investment group and Canada’s Public Sector Pension Investment Board. Maui News.

New Era of Ag on Maui: A&B Sells 41,000 Acres to Mahi Pono. Alexander & Baldwin today announced an agreement that will launch a new era of agriculture on Maui.  According to company executives, the agreement provides for the sale of the former Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company lands to Mahi Pono LLC for purposes of cultivating a variety of food and energy crops, ensuring the continued agricultural use of these lands, the preservation of green, open space in Central Maui, and a consistent and long-term source of revenue for the local economy. Maui Now.

A&B sells 41,000 acres of former Maui sugar lands. Alexander & Baldwin has sold about 41,000 acres of former Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company lands on Maui as part of a $262 million deal aimed at boosting local food production. Hawaii News Now.

Former HC&S land on Maui sold for $262 million. KHON2.

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The Maui County Planning Department will hold a public hearing on proposed revisions to the Department’s Administrative Rules for the Agricultural District. Maui Now.

MPD seeks recruits to fill more than 40 vacant positions. Some police officers have been reassigned to work patrol shifts, and some promotions are being delayed, as police continue recruiting officers to fill more than 40 vacant positions. Maui News.

Kauai

Community-Focused Rebuilding on Kauai's North Shore. A new community-driven initiative on Kauai's North Shore aims to ensure residents have a say in rebuilding their coast after the massive flooding earlier this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai woman pleads guilty to stealing almost $365K from US government. Hawaii News Now.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Lawmakers peg $570M for affordable housing, Trump likely to win Hawaii travel ban lawsuit at U.S. Supreme Court, vacation rentals big Big Island issue, Ige signs electricity ratepayer protection bill, all-mail voting may come to Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Public Housing Authority
Mayor Wright housing, Hawaii Public Housing Authority
State lawmakers Tuesday tentatively agreed on a bill to deposit $200 million into the state Rental Housing Revolving Fund — the biggest single cash contribution ever for the fund — and to dramatically expand an excise tax exemption for construction of affordable rental housing to help cope with the severe housing shortage. Star-Advertiser.

House and Senate conferees on Tuesday passed a funding package that would provide some $570 million for the construction of more than 25,000 affordable housing units in Hawaii over the next 12 years. Pacific Business News.

President Donald Trump appears likely to win his Trump. v. Hawaii travel ban case at the Supreme Court. Associated Press.

Electricity Ratepayer Protection Act Signed Into Law. Hawaii Public Radio.

In an effort to recognize the significance and precariousness of the state’s most abundant native tree, Gov. David Ige has proclaimed today Ohia Lehua Day in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.


Ad Watch: David Ige Reminds Voters Of His Roots. Hawaii’s governor emphasizes education and working families in his first re-election television commercial. Civil Beat.

On average, visitors paid almost $293 to stay in a Hawaii hotel during the first quarter, the highest rate in the nation, according to the Hawaii Hotel Performance Report released Tuesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels experienced a strong first quarter with statewide revenue per available room increasing 8.9 percent to $243 when compared to the same period last year. Pacific Business News.


Hawaiian Airlines generated more revenue and carried more passengers during any first quarter ever for the company despite increased competition and delivery delays on the carrier’s new aircraft. Star-Advertiser.


Despite having a record quarter for revenue and passengers flown, Hawaii’s largest carrier experienced a 15 percent drop in net income during the first three months of the year. Pacific Business News.


Oahu

The Honolulu City Council will debate Wednesday whether or not to authorize the settlement in an alleged police violence case. Hawaii News Now.

The state is taking steps to reclaim control of the land it owns under the Olomana golf course in Waimanalo and recover unpaid rent from a company that closed the course two weeks ago. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu city councilman proposes ban on ride share company surge pricing. KHON2.

Residents of Oahu’s Leeward Coast residents are increasingly concerned about their lack of options should a natural disaster close the Farrington Highway — their only way in or out. Civil Beat.

Oahu attorney faces 17 charges of tax evasion. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

No matter where they stand on the issue, one thing was clear Tuesday. People care very deeply about vacation rentals. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council Committee on Planning took up Bill 108 on Tuesday, a measure that attempts to get a handle on the short term vacation rentals doing business on the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

The contractor for a medical marijuana growing site under construction has filed a civil suit against the developer and operator of the facility project, claiming nonpayment for construction on the Pepeekeo site. Tribune-Herald.

A ‘Descendants’-Style Land Feud Breaks Out On The Big Island. A trust established by a former Dole president and Bishop Estate trustee has spawned a legal fight over a historic, 4,000-acre ranch. Civil Beat.

Fireworks have lit up the sky for years to celebrate Kealakehe High School’s graduating seniors, but changes made more than a year ago to the county’s fire code are putting an end to the festive tradition. West Hawaii Today.

Facility would grow algae from papaya for feed, fuel. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Police Chief Weighs In on Drug Issues. Hawaii Public Radio.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s search for a permanent chancellor has been pushed back. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Lahainaluna High School is getting over $425,000 for air conditioning in eight classrooms, restrooms, a conference room, a faculty center, and an electrical room. KITV.

The Maui Police Department is facing another lawsuit. This time filed by a 21-year-veteran of the force diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Hawaii News Now.

Members of the Maui Police Department and the employees of the Maui County Federal Credit Union Lahaina Branch will be participating in a one-day Coordinated Agency Emergency Preparedness Exercise. Maui Now.

Queen Kaahumanu Center’s security personnel have increased rotations and checks of a second-floor restroom where a 35-year-old Makawao man was killed in a machete attack in March after a confrontation on the Maui Bus on a trip to the mall. Maui News.

Fears over the opening of the latest Lahaina bypass section causing heavy traffic congestion on Keawe Street were realized Monday with many cars unable to enter or exit Lahaina Gateway Center, store managers said. Maui News.

A coalition made up of Maui residents, farmers, and their supporters presented a petition at Alexander & Baldwin's annual shareholders meeting in Iwilei on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

A group of Maui residents is asking Alexander and Baldwin to make 15% of its lands in Central Maui available for local food production, housing, and conservation. KITV.

Darren Strand, president of Haliimaile Pineapple Co., will be moving to Alexander & Baldwin and becoming the new general manager for diversified agriculture on Maui, A&B announced Tuesday. Maui News.

Alexander & Baldwin has named Darren Strand, former president of Haliimaile Pineapple Co., as president of the Hawaii-based real estate investment trust’s diversified agriculture operations on its former sugar cane fields on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

State May Experiment With All-Mail Voting On Kauai. The Garden Island has had difficulty in the past recruiting volunteer poll workers. Civil Beat.

Kauai Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. signed a supplementary emergency proclamation Tuesday that allows the county to continue responding in the aftermath of the torrential rainfall and flooding that occurred a week and a half ago. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. signed a supplementary emergency proclamation on Tuesday evening to continue emergency operations on Kauai. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii state lawmakers will have their final vote on a proposed emergency funding bill Wednesday. It calls for $100 million in emergency aid to help Kauai recover and rebuild after historic flooding and landslides. KHON2.

Despite the odor of cow manure and the brown water advisory currently cast over Kauai, surfers were taking on the waves in Hanalei Bay on Monday. Garden Island.

A footwear store will be donating more than 250 rubber boots to help with flood-recovery efforts. Garden Island.

Check Out These Before-And-After Photos Of The Kauai Flood. Take a look at the first Google satellite imagery capturing the extent of the flooding, road damage and altered beachscapes. Civil Beat.

Monday, February 26, 2018

Assisted suicide bill to be heard Tuesday, state tries to recoup $1.4M in salary over-payments, Hawaiian Airlines cuts two summer flights, homeless bills moving through Legislature, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii state Capitol ©2018 All Hawaii News
Proposed legislation that would allow terminally ill adults to end their lives with a lethal dose of prescription medication will get a public hearing Tuesday before the House Health and Human Services and Judiciary committees. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii House lawmakers are set to hear a medical aid in dying bill at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday in the Capitol auditorium, giving hope to advocates who have sought the law for years. Civil Beat.

A key Senate committee has approved an increase in the state conveyance tax on sales of high-end homes to raise an additional $56 million a year for development of affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

State House rolls out bills on homeless crisis. Out of nine homeless-­related House bills introduced this session, only three remain active. Star-Advertiser.

The state as of Dec. 31 was still trying to reclaim balances on nearly $1.4 million in salary overpayments mistakenly made to public employees over the years — some stretching back as far as the 1990s. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would require counties to get abandoned vehicles off public roads will be considered by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means this Wednesday before the proposal can go before the full state Senate for a vote. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has appointed Ken Kitamura as deputy director of the state Department of Budget and Finance. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Red Cross is sending a volunteer to provide comfort to those affected by the deadly mass shooting at a school in Florida: state Rep. Ryan Yamane. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines has removed two seasonal summer flights between the Bay Area and Hawaii due to an unexpected delay in the delivery of the airline’s new Airbus A321neo fleet. Pacific Business News.

Alexander & Baldwin Acquires Three Hawaii Retail Centers. Maui Now.

Maui restaurant The Banyan Tree was added to the The American Automobile Association Four Diamond list while two Oahu restaurants once again earned the Five Diamond Award. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Conceptual plans showing how Honolulu’s rail project could extend beyond Ala Moana Center to the University of Hawaii in Manoa suggest that any future extension could tremendously alter the shopping center and other properties in the Kapiolani district. Star-Advertiser.

Businesses hurt by rail construction will be able to apply for grants or loans from the city’s transit mitigation fund if the Honolulu City Council passes a measure introduced by Councilman Joey Manahan. Civil Beat.

Amid increasing concerns from state officials, the nearly 200 residents of one of Oahu’s largest homeless encampments welcomed hundreds of curious people inside Sunday with the message that the encampment on state-owned land is a better alternative than another law enforcement sweep. Star-Advertiser.

Dodging Oncoming Cars Is A Way Of Life In Crowded Kaimuki. In many of Honolulu’s older neighborhoods, narrow two-way streets really function as one-lane roads. But there’s little impetus to fix them. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Schools Chief: Threats Against Schools ‘Aren’t Taken Lightly’. Honolulu police say there have been more than a dozen social media posts since January threatening violence at Oahu schools. Civil Beat.

The isle building boom’s downside is a trio of disputes over workmanship. Honolulu's  construction industry received three big black eyes in the last year from high-profile project defect disputes: a state airport maintenance facility, a city traffic management center and a luxury condominium tower. Star-Advertiser.

Poor aircraft maintenance, including lack of grease in a vital drive shaft, was pegged as the probable cause of a helicopter crash near the USS Arizona Memorial that killed a 16-year-old boy in 2016, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. Star-Advertiser.

A wallaby that sought refuge at the Halawa Correctional Facility on Friday after it was hit by a car in the area is OK, according to city officials. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Thirty Meter Telescope manufacturing continues despite legal setbacks. The TMT International Observatory board of directors, representing the five partner countries, is expected to decide in April whether to stay in Hawaii or move to Spain’s Canary Islands. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island Tourism Director Crunches Visitor Numbers. Big Island Video News.

Measures seek to extend ag theft and vandalism pilot program on Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

Plan for Kona coffee megafarm raises concerns. Kona Hills LLC, recently sought state permission to import 1.5 million coffee seed embryos from Costa Rica as part of an effort to establish what would be the largest Kona coffee farm in history. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County has tossed out the bids for a sewer project in Lono Kona and plans to rebid the project next week. West Hawaii Today.

A project to widen 2.8 miles of Mamalahoa Highway in Waimea is back on the road. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council Member Elle Cochran made her candidacy for mayor official Friday, filing her nomination papers and becoming the third current or former council member to jump into the race to succeed Mayor Alan Arakawa, who can’t seek re-election because of term limits. Maui News.

Age discrimination complaint advances in federal court. Ex-county employee claims termination was retaliation. Maui News.

In light of constant traffic, frequent rescues and the occasional tragedy, East Maui residents have been working to increase safety and awareness along the road to Hana. Maui News.

Officials survey aftermath of Waihee River flood. Maui News.

Kauai

Improvements to a $670,000 Poipu Beach Park project are complete, according to the Department of Parks and Recreation. Garden Island.

Both lanes of Kuhio Highway in Wainiha were opened just after 3 p.m. Sunday. Landslides caused by heavy rains completely blocked the highway Friday morning. Garden Island.

The 14th Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon will be the last one for Bernard Carvalho Jr. as the mayor of Kauai. Garden Island.

Monday, November 13, 2017

Drier climate threatens Hawaii forest birds, Honolulu police conquering rape kit backlog, Damien band director fired over girl's sex assault allegations, telescopes pro and con, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Iiwi PC:Lucas Behnke USGS
Drier climate seen as threat to isle forest birds. A new study by U.S. Forest Service researchers suggests that the impact of climate-related changes on native Hawaiian birds may be even more substantial than previously understood. Star-Advertiser.

Immigrants add billions to Hawaii’s economy, report says. As Hawaii continues to be a thorn in the side for President Donald Trump and his immigration policies, a new report underscores how much immigrants mean to the islands. Star-Advertiser.

GOP tax plan would hit isle taxpayers hard. The evolving picture of the Republicans’ proposed changes to the federal tax code does not bode well for many of Hawaii’s taxpayers, with lawmakers considering reducing or even abolishing some deductions that are particularly important to local tax filers. Star-Advertiser.

As Republicans on Capitol Hill refine their plans on tax reform, one point under consideration is eliminating a tax credit for electric vehicles. And that would be likely to have a broad impact here in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

The plaintiffs in a long-running class-action lawsuit over long waits for Department of Hawaiian Home Lands homestead lots have scored what they consider another crucial victory in court. Star-Advertiser.

Isle homeless advocates cite gains in cutting numbers needing shelter. Despite lingering encampments across the state, social workers and state and city officials insist Hawaii is making progress reducing the nation’s highest per capita rate of homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Allegiant Air ends service to Hawaii. The discount carrier, which at one time served Hawaii on 10 routes from nine mainland cities, quietly ended its lone remaining service with a flight from Honolulu to Las Vegas on Oct. 28. Star-Advertiser.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. has created a new image for its nickname, A&B, to go along with its new structure as a real estate investment trust. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Congressional race will reveal Democratic Party’s divide and future course. The uncertainty and disunity within the dominant Hawaii Democratic Party is showing up as the race to replace U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in Hawaii’s 1st Congressional District begins. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Why Would Anyone Want To Run For Congress? Maybe because it pays well, there are lots of perks and it’s possible — just possible — to do some good. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department says that by the end of November it will clear a backlog of nearly 1,400 sexual assault evidence kits, some dating back more than two decades, and will send out all of about 200 more recent kits in the department’s possession for testing by the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Recycle Or Incinerate? The Battle Of The Blue Bins. Burning more discards could save money as recycling gets more expensive, but environmentalists say it’s the cost of caring for the planet. Civil Beat.

"Complete Streets" solutions needed for Honolulu's urban core. Aiming to make the streets of Honolulu's urban core safer, the city is turning to the community for their input. KITV.

City invites community input on Complete Streets solutions. The city wants to hear from you on how to make streets safer. KHON2.

UH Cancer Center projects an end to budget deficit. The University of Hawaii Cancer Center is projecting a balanced budget this year for the first time since opening its $130 million Kakaako facility in 2013. Star-Advertiser.

Uber's food delivery platform UberEATS to launch in Hawaii this month. Ridesharing platform Uber confirmed to Pacific Business News that it will launch its food delivery service program, UberEATS, in Honolulu on Nov. 15. Pacific Business News.

Former Damien Memorial band director shocked by sexual assault charges. The Damien Memorial School band director who lost his job after his arrest last week for investigation of sexually assaulting a girl says he is stunned by the charges.Star-Advertiser.

Damien Memorial School band director fired after being charged with sexual assault. The president and CEO of Damien Memorial School released a statement Sunday that the band director has been fired after being arrested and charged on eight counts of sexual assault. KITV.

Tribute marks 100th anniversary of Queen Liliuokalani's death. A large crowd marked the 100th anniversary of the death of Hawaii's last reigning monarch. The tribute to Queen Liliuokalani took place in front of the statue of the beloved monarch near Iolani Palace. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

One mauna, many perspectives: Native Hawaiians discuss spiritual, cultural connections to Maunakea. Before it became known as the world’s premier place for astronomy, Maunakea had long inspired reverence. Tribune-Herald.

Special section: Celebrating 50 years of astronomy on Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

Army seeks public comment on Pohakuloa cultural resources. The U.S. Army Garrison, Pohakuloa, is seeking public comments on its plan to manage cultural resources on its 132,000-acre training site tucked in the saddle between Maunakea and Mauna Loa. West Hawaii Today.

The East Hawaii Regional Board of Directors of Hawaii Health Systems Corp. showed Puna community members Thursday night that the district’s health care is one of its top priorities. Tribune-Herald.

The ongoing legal dispute between Big Island Dog Rescue and Hawaii Island Humane Society showed little signs of resolution last week as both parties were unwilling to compromise on any of the motions brought before a 3rd Circuit Court judge. West Hawaii Today.

Lending a hand: Nonprofit initiative offers path out of debt spiral. West Hawaii Today.

To celebrate a queen: Liliuokalani memorial service features powerful portrayal of beloved monarch. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Committee to Hear From Experts on Sunscreen and Coral Reef Damage. The Maui County Council’s Infrastructure and Environmental Management Committee will receive presentations from two toxicologists about the effects of oxybenzone and octinoxate on Maui’s coral reefs and marine life at its Nov. 13 meeting. Maui Now.

Couch considering a run for state House. Former Maui County Council Member Don Couch appears to be making a run for political office again, eyeing the South Maui state House of Representatives seat now held by Rep. Kaniela Ing, according to Couch’s campaign website and state documents. Maui News.

Community members offer ideas for state lands in W. Maui. Charging nonresidents a user fee, restoring native habitats and installing more portable toilets were some ideas floated at a community open house Wednesday night on the future of state lands in the Honolua Bay and Lipoa Point areas. Maui News.

Maui residents say A&B is wasting water its diverting from streams. Some Maui residents say a big corporation is wasting water that it's diverting from streams and that the state needs to take action. Hawaii News Now.

BLNR approves A&B’s continued E. Maui stream water diversions. Company will have access to up to 80 million gallons daily for a year. Maui News.

Maui residents can enjoy hotel amenities for a fee. Maui residents will soon have the opportunity to live like hotel guests in Wailea, the state’s top luxury market — for a price. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai


Lori Stitt joins Malama Mahaulepu. Malama Mahaulepu is welcoming a new outreach and project coordinator, and advancing a new survey — all at the same time. Garden Island.

Thursday, November 9, 2017

Honolulu jail site selected, Office of Hawaiian Affairs sues state over Mauna Kea management, Kealoha judge wants proof they can't afford lawyer, Sen. Kim announces congressional bid, high cost to retrofit high-rise sprinklers, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Concertina wire over Hawaii jail © 2017 All Hawaii News
Animal Quarantine Station site marked for new Oahu jail. The preferred location for Oahu’s new jail is the Animal Quarantine Station site in Halawa Valley, and the latest cost estimate for the project is $525 million, according to the project’s draft environmental impact statement. Star-Advertiser.

‘Preferred’ Jail Site Currently Houses Animal Quarantine Station. The Halawa Valley project’s $525 million price tag includes $17.5 million for a new quarantine facility. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reveals preferred location for new Oahu jail. An underused animal quarantine facility near the confluence of two freeways on Oahu is the state of Hawaii’s preferred site for Honolulu’s new jail, a $525 million project that would replace the aging and overcrowded Oahu Community Correctional Center. Pacific Business News.

OCCC Relocation: $525M. The state reached a major decision-point in its plan to replace the outdated Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

State selects Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa as preferred location for OCCC. Gov. David Ige announced on Wednesday that his administration has selected the Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa as the preferred site for the relocation of the Oahu Community Correctional Center. KITV.

Construction at Halawa prison stirs up rats. Recent construction work at Halawa Correctional Facility has stirred up the rat population at the state’s largest prison, but Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda says the department has contracted with exterminators who have the situation under control. Star-Advertiser.

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Why Gov. Ige’s Secret Talks With Airbnb Have So Many People Upset. A backlash is brewing against a potential deal for the company to collect Hawaii taxes — in part, because no one knows what’s in the agreement. Civil Beat.

Donna Mercado Kim enters race for US Congress. Veteran State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim is making another run for U.S. Congress. Hawaii News Now.

Attack Warning Siren Tests Begin in December. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency will begin testing its Attack Warning Signal or “Wailing Tone” next month as they continue preparedness and consequence management plans related to potential attack scenarios. Maui Now.

Judge ‘troubled’ as Island Air seeks cash infusion. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Faris expressed concern Wednesday about Island Air’s dire financial condition and gave the company a one-week extension to use its cash and provide more evidence of its financial situation before he decides how to proceed with the case. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ballard names 2 HPD captains as her top deputies. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard has named HPD captains John McCarthy and Jonathon Grems as her two deputy chiefs. Star-Advertiser.

Attorneys ask to be removed from case; Kealohas to file financial disclosures. A federal judge has continued a hearing to Thursday morning on whether the attorneys representing Louis and Katherine Kealoha should be removed from the couple’s high-profile public corruption case. Star-Advertiser.

Judge To Kealohas: Show Me Your Finances. A federal judge says he won’t consider taxpayer-funded attorneys for the former Honolulu chief and his prosecutor wife until he verifies their financial situation. Civil Beat.

Kealohas claim they can't afford attorneys; judge says prove it. The Kealohas will have to turn over financial information before a U.S. District Court Judge will order taxpayer-funded attorneys for the couple fighting a 20-count federal indictment. Hawaii News Now.

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Rail costs cast shadow over Blaisdell plan. As the plan to make over the Neal S. Blaisdell Center moves ahead, one prominent state lawmaker continues to question whether the city should tackle that nearly $700 million endeavor before it finishes funding rail. Star-Advertiser.

Bringing the Blaisdell Center into the 21st century could cost $530M. Community members had their third and final opportunity to weigh in on the future of the Neal S. Blaisdell Center on Wednesday evening. Hawaii News Now.

City holds final public workshop on Blaisdell Center Master Plan. KHON2.

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Fire safety panel recommends retrofitting sprinklers in 150 older Honolulu buildings. Five months after the deadly fire at the Marco Polo Building, an advisory committee formed in response to the tragedy is making a recommendation to the Honolulu City Council. KITV.

Here's what it would cost to retrofit high-rises with fire sprinklers. A residential fire safety panel led by Honolulu Fire Chief Manuel Neves is recommending that only older residential high-rises with interior hallways should be required to install automatic fire sprinklers. Hawaii News Now.

New report whittles down older high-rises in need of new sprinkler systems. In the wake of the deadly Marco Polo fire, the mayor called for older residential high-rises to be retrofitted with sprinklers. KHON2.

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North Shore safety, traffic frustrations continue with solutions overturned, unenforced. The bottleneck on Kamehameha Highway near Laniakea Beach has long been a source of frustration for Oahu’s North Shore residents. KHON2.

Leader of Kakaako development agency resigning. Jesse Souki, head of the Hawaii Community Development Authority, notified the agency’s board and staff last week that he is stepping down Nov. 30 after one year on the job. Star-Advertiser.

NRG Energy seeks $350M in financing to build solar farms in Hawaii. NRG Energy acquired the three solar farm projects from bankrupt SunEdison last November. Pacific Business News.

Cat sterilization non-profit seeks new home after losing lease. After seven years, the non-profit CatFriends lost the lease for their facility in Kalihi. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

OHA sues UH over Mauna Kea; Attorney says agency willing to work with DLNR on new management structure. In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in Honolulu Circuit Court, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is alleging the University of Hawaii is in violation of its general lease for the Mauna Kea Science Reserve and asks for the agreement to be cancelled. Tribune-Herald.

OHA sues to end UH’s stewardship of Mauna Kea summit. After threatening to go to court for months, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs finally pulled the trigger, accusing the University of Hawaii of aggressively developing the Mauna Kea summit for astronomy at the expense of its environment and cultural significance. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Sues State, UH Over ‘Longstanding Mismanagement’ Of Mauna Kea. The legal action follows a ruling allowing the Thirty Meter Telescope project to go forward on a mountain considered deeply sacred by many Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says it is moving forward with its lawsuit over the management of Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

OHA: State incapable of giving Mauna Kea 'level of aloha' it deserves. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is suing the state, claiming "longstanding and well-documented mismanagement" of Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

OHA sues state over management of Mauna Kea. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against the state and the University of Hawaii for what the group calls the "longstanding and well-documented mismanagement of Mauna Kea." KITV.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs sues state, University of Hawaii over Mauna Kea. The state Office of Hawaiian Affairs is suing the state of Hawaii and the University of Hawaii for what it calls “their longstanding and well-documented mismanagement of Mauna Kea,” and seeks to terminate the university’s lease of the land on the mountain, which is home to a dozen observatories. Pacific Business News.

University Of Hawaii, State Respond To OHA Mauna Kea Lawsuit. Big Island Video News.

Memorial service, music program mark 100th anniversary of Liliuokalani’s death. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Navy expands zone limiting sonar testing around county. The U.S. Navy has expanded its no-sonar-testing zone around Maui County by about 50 percent, according to its latest draft environmental impact statement for personnel and weapons systems training between Hawaii and California, officials said Tuesday. Maui News.

Liquor department faces new gripes. Boys & Girls Clubs ‘Little Chefs’ not allowed with ‘Big Chefs,’ to receive awards on stage; no alcohol allowed at VFW luau. Maui News.

Man On Trans-Pacific Voyage In Ocean Rowboat Rescued Off Maui. He was headed from California to China aboard an 18-foot vessel, according to the Coast Guard. Civil Beat.

Progress made in converting old sugar cane lands. Half of company’s 36,000 acres may be leased more quickly than expected – A&B. Maui News.

Maui home sales jump 35% in October as prices rise. Home sales on Maui increased by more than 35 percent in October, when compared to the same month last year, while median prices rose for both single-family homes and condominiums, according to statistics released by the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Sammy Hagar Lists Haiku Oceanfront Retreat for $3.3M. Maui Now.

Kauai

Navy outlines plans for future activity. Weapons and whales came head to head in Lihue Wednesday afternoon as the U.S. Navy presented its newest evaluation of the impacts training and testing activities have on the environment. Garden Island.

Housing, safety at forefront of county requests. On Wednesday, the county committee meeting began dialogue regarding the priorities for formulating the 2018 Kauai County Legislative Package. Garden Island.

Fat and molting, Kauai’s yearling Hawaiian Monk Seal RH38 has returned to Kauai waters after spending two months at Ke Kai Ola, a dedicated Marine Mammal Center hospital for monk seals on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.