Honolulu one of 20 U.S. airports screening for coronavirus, lawmaker wants to study magic mushrooms, Aloha Stadium designs unveiled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu International Airport ©2020 All Hawaii News

Passengers from China screened at Honolulu airport for coronavirus. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport began screening passengers from China on Tuesday as part of stepped-up efforts against the coronavirus at 20 U.S. ports of entry. Star-Advertiser.

Health Officials Step Up Coronavirus Precautions At Honolulu Airport. Customs and Border Patrol agents will begin to distribute coronavirus alert notices to certain passengers. Civil Beat.

Enhanced screenings to begin at Honolulu’s airport amid growing concerns about deadly virus.  As concerns grow over a deadly new virus from China, the U.S. government is expanding passenger screenings from five airports to 20, including Honolulu’s airport. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu airport to begin screening for coronavirus. Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is among 20 U.S. airports that will conduct screenings for the virus. Pacific Business News.

Coronavirus Monitoring: Honolulu Among 20 Airports in US with CDC Quarantine Station. The state Department of Transportation is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Hawaiʻi Department of Health in monitoring for the Coronavirus amid the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak in China. Maui Now.

In light of coronavirus epidemic, people stocking up on masks leaving shelves empty. No confirmed cases of the virus so far in Hawaii, still, that hasn’t stopped people from stocking up on masks. KHON2.

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Governor: Despite Recent Crimes, Hawaii Still Safe. That is supported by data from the Department of Justice, which shows in 2019 Hawaii had one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the past 30 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill: Let’s Study The Benefits Of Magic Mushrooms. A temporary Medicinal Psilocybin Working Group would be established to make recommendations to the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

City councilmember proposes change on how often senior citizens renew their licenses. Kymberly Pine is urging the state to change the rules when it comes to senior citizen drivers. KHON2.

Dozens of new bills aim to shore up biosecurity in Hawaii. A host of bills addressing invasive species and the state’s biosecurity are a part of this year’s legislative session, following a list of recommendations by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

More Oversight Of Vape Shops Expected Under New Federal Ban On Tobacco Sales. Hawaii can expect to see more federal oversight of tobacco and vaping sales beginning this month, now that the federal government has caught up with Hawaii in prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone under 21. Civil Beat.

More Investors Could Mean Increased Affordable Housing. Housing advocates want to open up the state’s Low Income Housing Tax Credit program to anyone – not just big banks. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Medical Service Association said Tuesday it has selected Dr. Mark Mugiishi as its new president and chief executive officer. Mugiishi has been interim president and CEO since August and will assume the permanent position Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Central Pacific’s earnings fall 10.1% amid loan provision maneuvers. The holding company for the state’s fourth-largest bank said today that earnings fell to $14.2 million, or 50 cents a share, from $15.8 million, or 54 cents a share, in the year-earlier quarter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

WATCH: Honolulu Prosecutor debate. Five candidates for the Honolulu Prosecutor took the stage for a debate on Tuesday night. KHON2.

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DHHL buys urban Honolulu apartments for beneficiaries. Native Hawaiians on a wait list for homesteads should have a first-ever opportunity later this year to rent affordable apartments from the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Star-Advertiser.

$7.8M Purchase Of Moiliili Lots Approved For DHHL. The department plans to rehabilitate buildings for affordable rentals to applicants on its wait list. Civil Beat.

DHHL To Buy $8M Property In Moʻiliʻili From Kamehameha Schools For Housing. A new land deal in Mōʻiliʻili struck by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands could take potentially hundreds of Native Hawaiians off the homestead wait list in urban Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Department of Hawaiian Homelands to purchase property from Kamehameha Schools. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands got the green light to purchase two vacant apartment buildings in Moiliili from Kamehameha Schools. KHON2.

Hawaiian Homes Commission buying two vacant Honolulu apartment buildings from Kamehameha Schools. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, which currently plans to redevelop the former bowling alley into a highrise with rental apartments, plans to renovate the 31 units in the two low-rise apartment buildings for affordable rentals. Pacific Business News.

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Storm runoff could cost Oahu homeowners. Imagine being charged for the rain that falls on your home. That's what the city is proposing with a new utility. KITV4.

Can Fixing Parking Rules Make Honolulu More Affordable? The Honolulu City Council will consider a bill lifting Oahu’s minimum parking requirements — and let developers decide how much parking their buildings need. Civil Beat.

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Take a look at the 3 proposed designs for the new Aloha Stadium district. Renderings for what the new Aloha Stadium could look like have been released. Lawmakers and developers have been brainstorming what they wanted not just the stadium to look like, but also the grounds surrounding the stadium. Hawaii News Now.

WATCH: three conceptual renderings of potential Aloha Stadium renovations. New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District released three flyover renderings of potential Aloha Stadium renovations. KHON2.

Concepts provide glimpse of possibilities for new Aloha Stadium. In a series of public and community meetings over the past few months, officials of the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District have been sharing conceptualized possible options for what the new facility and surrounding development could look like at its scheduled fall 2023 opening and seeking public comment. Star-Advertiser.

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The Honolulu Morgue Is Still A Mess. When Civil Beat asked for a tour of the facility this month, the city rushed to clean up its image. But problems persist. Civil Beat.

Hundreds gather for beachside vigil honoring slain officer. Hundreds gathered as the sun set on Sandy Beach to hold a candlelight vigil Tuesday honoring Honolulu police officer Kaulike Kalama, who was one of two officers killed 11 days ago responding to a landlord-tenant dispute. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds honor fallen HPD officer remembered as a quiet hero. The family of a slain Honolulu police officer who treasured their privacy opened up Tuesday night as a large crowd joined them in mourning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Prosecutors: Employee of Puna charter school overrun by lava embezzled $628,000. There’s more bad news for a Puna charter school devastated by the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Federal prosecutors allege that the former financial officer for Kua O Ka La public charter school embezzled $628,000 from the campus between December 2012 and January 2019. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island woman charged with wire fraud for stealing money from a school. A Big Island woman has been charged with wire fraud, after officials say she stole money from the Kua O Ka La Public Charter School. KHON2.

Big Isle hospitals take action following China outbreak. As the United States and the world continues to monitor the outbreak of a new respiratory virus, Big Island hospitals are at the ready for any potential cases. Tribune-Herald.

Paniolo Avenue intersection improvements coming. A worrisome Waikoloa intersection will be getting a $5.5 million upgrade, thanks to action taken by the County Council last week. West Hawaii Today.

DOH Eyes Old Kona Courthouse as New Treatment Center. The old Kona Courthouse in Kealakekua may soon be repurposed for use as a short-term transitional treatment facility for those suffering from drug addiction and/or behavioral health issues, specifically the homeless. Big Island Now.

Maui

State looks to Brazilian beetle to battle with invasive weed. The insect feeds on cane tibouchina, a pesky plant that’s widespread in Maui forests. Maui News.

Proposed Wailuku Hotel Topic of Community Event. Longtime Maui residents and Wailuku property owners, Jonathan Starr and Helen Nielsen, are major partners in Supreme Bright  Wailuku, LLC, an entity proposing a new kamaʻāina business hotel in Wailuku Town. Maui Now.

Maui County prepares to kick off $40M project to relieve parking, traffic woes in Wailuku. County officials say a new $40 million project aimed at addressing the problems could be a boon to businesses in the area — once the work is complete. Hawaii News Now.


Kauai

Construction set for Loop Road. Loop Road construction is set to begin today, after more than a year of muddy conditions, vandalism concerns and the installation of a new gate just past the Keahua Bridge. Garden Island.

Coconut Beach Resort names new general manager. Chris Machorek was recently appointed as the new general manager of the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

800 acres of a Molokai watershed will now be protected by the state. The area is known as Pua’ahala. The Department of Land and Natural Resources along with the East Moloka’i Watershed Partnership purchased the land for nearly $3.2 million. Hawaii News Now.

State buys Puaahala Watershed on Molokai for conservation. On Molokai, a critical piece of land on the island’s east side has been acquired by the state in hopes of protecting an important watershed. KHON2.

Holiday season tests new fireworks ban, Honolulu council takes free lunch, Gabbard moves to New Hampshire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New law makes homeowners and renters liable for illegal fireworks on their property. According to the law the fireworks don’t have to be ignited. Just having them in your house is enough for police to bust you. KHON2.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green continues mission to help Samoa battle measles outbreak. After returning from a medical mission to help contain the measles outbreak in Samoa last week, Lieutenant Governor Josh Green is already planning a return trip. KITV.

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Tulsi Gabbard, 1 poll short of qualifying, says she won’t attend presidential debate. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard says she won’t attend this month’s presidential debate, even if she were to qualify. Star-Advertiser.

Invited Or Not, Gabbard Will Skip December Debate. The presidential candidate from Hawaii says she will focus instead on primaries in New Hampshire and South Carolina. Civil Beat.

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Deadly Mosquitoes Are Killing Off Hawaii’s Rare Forest Birds. Scientists are racing to eradicate disease-carrying mosquitoes from forests, but to some a solution still feels like forever away. Civil Beat.

Navy releases photo of suspected Pearl Harbor gunman. The Navy’s Recruit Training Command Great Lakes in Illinois released the photo of the 22-year-old sailor suspected of fatally shooting on Wednesday two Pearl Harbor Shipyard workers and injuring a third man before shooting himself. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council Voted On Company’s Project Then Let It Buy Lunch. Ethics guidelines advise government agencies against accepting free food if the company has business before the city. Civil Beat.

State agency set to take over Aloha Stadium redevelopment. The Hawaii Community Development Authority, a state agency primarily focused on facilitating redevelopment in Kakaako is preparing to assume leadership of the effort to replace Aloha Stadium. Star-Advertiser.

Leaders gather to temper the bonds made after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. On Monday on Ford Island, within close proximity to the USS Arizona Memorial, the closeness that now joins the United States and Japan as much as it separated the nations 78 years ago was once again recognized in a remembrance of not only the 2,390 American casualties, but also the death of 65 Japanese service members. Star-Advertiser.

Home sales on Oahu post gains in November. Sales of single-family homes on Oahu rose 11% in November, compared to a year ago, while sales of condominiums increased slightly and prices remained flat, according to statistics from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Who is taxedtodeath? That was the question of the day Friday, as attorneys for county Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto, former County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong, the county and the unknown individual faced off in Kona Circuit Court. West Hawaii Today.

Farmers have few options for fighting two-lined spittle bug. County, state and federal agencies are still seeking solutions to an invasive insect that threatens much of the Big Island’s livestock industry. Tribune-Herald.

Kalanianaole work still on track for 2020 completion. Roadwork and safety improvements along Kalanianaole Avenue are still on track to be completed in the latter part of 2020, the county Department of Public Works said Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Overlooked county cesspool to cost taxpayers. Oh, poo. The county missed one. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island Business Turns Plastic Trash Into Sales. Upcycle Hawaii owner Mattie Mae Larson talks about how she got into the business of repurposing material that would otherwise end up in the landfill. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Property tax changes discussed. A community meeting on the real property tax changes recently approved by the Maui County Council will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Maui County Business Resource Center, Suite B-9 near IHOP at the Maui Mall. Maui News.

County inventory for single-family homes descends to new low. Median sales prices for those homes fell by 1.4 percent; Condo prices drop 5.9 percent. Maui News.

Maui home sale prices fell in November. Single-family homes on the Valley Isle sold for $730,000 in November, down 1% from $740,398 in the same month last year, while sale volume slipped 7% to 71 from 76 in the same period. Star-Advertiser.

New South Maui Gym to Take Permit Applications. The county will be accepting requests from the public to use the new South Maui Community Park Gymnasium for the winter/spring 2020 season for a limited period this week. Maui Now.

Kauai

Anahola woman cited for attempting to sell prohibited ivory. This is the first conviction for whale bone in Hawaii under the new wildlife trafficking statute that took effect on July 1, 2017. Garden Island.

Woman is ordered to pay fines for trafficking illegal whale items. 73-year-old Vivian Satow of Anahola was ordered to pay $250 on Tuesday, December 3 due to her trafficking illegal whale items. KITV.

New, $630K fire engine blessed. The Kauai Fire Department held a blessing ceremony on Monday fronting the Historic County Building in Lihue for its new Engine 3 fire apparatus. Garden Island.

Coral bleaching worries scientists, lawsuit threatened over rumors of Ige's TMT ties, CBD products impure, Honolulu cracks down on vacation rentals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Coral bleaching from 2011 event off Hawaii Island ©2019 All Hawaii News

Coral bleaching appears off Maui as ocean heats up. State officials said signs of severe and widespread coral bleaching event, as earlier predicted, are already apparent along reefs off of Maui due to higher than average ocean temperatures. Star-Advertiser.

High Summer Temperatures Linked to Coral Bleaching. Researchers from the Department of Land and Natural Resources have observed a coral bleaching event that they link to Hawaii’s record breaking high temperatures this summer. Hawaii Public Radio.

Coral Bleaching Already Underway As Hawaii Waters Heat Up. Reefs off Maui Nui are showing impacts, the state reports, as a severe and widespread coral bleaching event is predicted to occur this year. Big Island Video News.

Coral bleaching already being seen in Hawaii waters. State scientists say they’re already beginning to see coral bleaching in Hawaii’s warmer-than-average waters. Hawaii News Now.

Coral Bleaching Event Has Begun in Hawaiian Waters. The severe and widespread coral bleaching event predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is already occurring along reefs across the state, according to a Sept. 11, 2019, press release from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. Big Island Now.

Bleached corals found. Corals in Hawaii have started bleaching, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources, and local reports show concern for some of Kauai’s corals as well. Garden Island.

Predicted Coral Bleaching Already Appearing off Molokini and South Maui. The severe and widespread coral bleaching event predicted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is already occurring along reefs across the state, according to information compiled by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now.

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Top Hawaii Sheriff Officials Lacked Basic Training For Decades. Three years after news reports first surfaced questioning a lack of training, the state Department of Public Safety finally releases records confirming the lapse. Civil Beat.

HNN investigation finds bacteria, inaccurate potency in popular CBD products. HNN-commissioned tests of seven CBD products purchased in Hawaii stores found that the potency of cannabidiol in products wasn’t the same as what was on the label in every single case. Hawaii News Now.

UH Enrollment Drops 3 Percent. Fewer students means less revenue for the university system. Civil Beat.

State Meets on Resilience in Face of Disaster. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green hosted the inaugural meeting of the 2019 Hawaii Maritime Regional Resiliency Assessment Program at the Hawaii State Capital on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019. Big Island Now.

Event Focuses on Preparedness for Catastrophic Incidents. Government officials convened on Tuesday to discuss how Hawaii can better prepare for and recover from catastrophic incidents that impact the stateʻs ability to provide goods and services. Maui Now.

Hawaii Gears Up To Make Sure All Residents Are Counted In 2020 Census. The census will determine revenues for many programs, including those that serve Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

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High profile attorney threatens to sue over ‘vicious’ TMT rumors. Attorney Michael Green is representing a couple that’s threatening to sue people who are spreading rumors that Gov. Ige has financial ties to the Thirty Meter Telescope. Hawaii News Now.

DLNR: Protest might be harming endangered plants. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is investigating how the occupation of Maunakea Access Road might be harming a rare native Hawaiian plant and several other endangered species. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Kim Has Been Mulling Mauna Kea Management Changes For Months. With the Thirty Meter Telescope project delayed by opposition, news reports say the mayor plans to recommend changes to the Mauna Kea management structure. It won't be the first time he has done so. Big Island Video News.

Trustee Asks OHA to put TMT Back on Agenda. Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee Dan Ahuna penned a letter to fellow trustees requesting the Thirty Meter Telescope project be added to the agenda so the OHA Board can “consider its position on the project.” Big Island Now.

Full interview with Hawaii Island Mayor Harry Kim about TMT and other issues related to Mauna Kea. KHON2.

Oahu

Officials step up citations for illegal rentals. The number of violation notices issued by the city to operators for allegedly advertising unpermitted short-term rentals has risen to 37 with more anticipated in the coming weeks. Star-Advertiser.

First fines may soon be issued under Honolulu’s strict vacation rental law. City officials say the Department of Planning and Permitting issued 37 notices of violation to vacation rental operators suspected of advertising illegal rentals. Hawaii News Now.

City sends out dozens of notices of violation to short-term rental operators. The City Department of Planning and Permitting has given out 37 notices of violation for short-term rental advertising. KHON2.

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New conviction-eviction law for public housing. People convicted of serious crimes and allowed to remain in taxpayer-funded public housing projects — has been a source of frustration for taxpayers. KHON2.

Kahuku wind farm plan challenged again. A Hawaii environmental group hailed by Kahuku residents made a new bid to stop development of a third wind farm on Oahu’s North Shore on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

‘This Is Our Mauna Kea’: Oahu Wind Farm Opponents Say They’re Inspired By Big Island Protests. The movement on Mauna Kea is motivating others to assert collective power over land-use decisions, even at the last minute. Civil Beat.

Power unstable at Terminals 1 and 2 at Honolulu airport. Electrical power was unstable at Terminals 1 and 2 today at Daniel K. Inouye Airport, but did not affect any flights. Star-Advertiser.

New Aloha Stadium may be ready in 2023, firm says. Having the new Aloha Stadium ready for a 2023 football season opening is “eminently do-able, sensible and economical,” said the head of the company overseeing the project for the state. Star-Advertiser.

State scrapping Navatek, but boaters might be on the hook to cover costs. The state is finally dismantling and removing the Navatek II, a derelict catamaran, from the gateway of Waikiki where it has sat since May. Star-Advertiser.

Crews to begin removing Navatek II near the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor. Work to dispose of the large catamaran at the start of Waikiki is beginning. Hawaii News Now.

Greater Potential For Micromobility Transit In Honolulu Than Any Other U.S. City. A new report finds that Honolulu has more potential for micro-mobility than any other American city, primarily due to the prevalence of car trips measuring less than 3 miles. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lanai Lookout and the parking lot off of Kalanianaole Highway in East Oahu will be closed on Monday as crews film an episode of “Hawaii Five-0,” according to state transportation officials. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Abandoned vehicle program on a roll. The Hawaii County Council is fixing a glitch in a law that allows the county to haul abandoned vehicles from county property, but not state or federal property. West Hawaii Today.

Highways Administrator Apologizes For Puna “Carmegeddon”. Ed Sniffen, the Hawaii Department of Transportation Highways Division administrator, took questions from the Hawaii County Council on the traffic mess that occurred in Puna a few weeks ago. Big Island Video News.

Waimea roadwork will trigger lane closures starting Monday. The commute to, from and through Waimea will be more difficult in the coming months. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Factual report on fatal helicopter crash released. Debris recovered earlier this year. The fuselage of a Robinson Helicopter R44 that crashed in the ocean off Molokai two years ago, killing two aboard, was severely fragmented and partially embedded in the ocean floor, according to video from an underwater remotely-operated vehicle at the crash site. Maui News.

Plane That Ran off Runway in Kapalua Had Trouble Slowing Down, Report Finds. A Mokulele Airlines plane that swerved off a runway at Kapalua Airport last month had trouble decelerating, according to a preliminary report that the National Transportation Safety Board issued on Wednesday. Maui Now.

East Maui water improvements topic. Meetings to provide updates on East Maui water system improvements for area farmers will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 27 at Haiku Elementary School and 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 28 at Keanae Congregational Church. Maui News.

Kauai

Council votes ‘no’ to pension overtime cap. A bill that would have placed a cap on the amount of overtime considered to be “compensation” for pension retirement benefits, won’t be included in the 2020 Hawaii State Association of Counties Legislative Package. Garden Island.

Partial lane closure in Kapaa. The public is advised that there will be a partial one-lane road closure on Kuhio Highway on the outermost northbound lane between Papaloa Road and Aleka Loop in Kapaa today from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting.  Garden Island.

Parking crackdown, tickets on Mauna Kea, Honolulu cites first 5 illegal vacation rentals, new stadium on fast track, sticker shock for fresh ahi, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hirono tours Mauna Kea protest site. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono visited the site of the protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope and toured the tent encampment at the base of the Mauna Kea Access Road for several hours Monday morning, speaking with protest leaders and Hawaiian elders who assured her the demonstrations are organized and peaceful. Star-Advertiser.

Hirono spotted visiting with kupuna and kia'i on Mauna Kea. KITV.

Lawmaker Inouye asks Gov. Ige to uphold law in TMT standoff. Hilo Sen. Lorraine Inouye urged Gov. David Ige in a letter to uphold the law and move forward with the Thirty Meter Telescope project despite the current standoff on Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Kim Hints At “Plan On How To Go Forward” On TMT. Mayor Kim offered insights into the chain of command early on in the Mauna Kea situation, and said he is "going come out very shortly on a plan on how to go forward." Big Island Video News.

After weeks of mostly silence on TMT, Ige offers no details on how conflict will be resolved. Who was in charge when 38 Thirty Meter Telescope protesters were arrested at Mauna Kea? Hawaii News Now.

Parking crackdown, new signs at TMT protest site anger activists. The state Department of Transportation started installing no parking signs along Daniel K. Inouye Highway at Mauna Kea, in a move that’s angering TMT protesters. Hawaii News Now.

Leak in telescope on Mauna Kea fuels renewed controversy. A picture from April of 2018 shows a slow leak of hydraulic fluid was discovered behind dry wall. KITV.

Veteran Astronomer Reflects on Changes, Mauna Kea's Role In Learning. A lot has changed in astronomy since Hawaiʻi astronomer Doug Simons began his career more than 30 years ago. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Ahi prices ‘Higher than New Year’s’. Wholesale buyers at the United Fishing Agency say most are experiencing sticker shock when bidding for fresh ahi. KHON2.

Pearl Harbor destroyer returns after adventurous 92 days at sea. t was an eventful 92 days at sea for the destroyer USS Michael Murphy, which returned Monday to Pearl Harbor and waiting family members. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City Council is pressured to support Ala Wai flood project. The Honolulu City Council is expected to consider a resolution today that would keep the controversial Ala Wai Flood Risk Management Project moving forward. Star-Advertiser.

City: $224M in federal funds ‘in jeopardy’ if controversial Ala Wai watershed project doesn’t proceed. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) plans to build the structures to protect residents from a 100-year storm that could damage 3,000 homes and cause more than $1 billion in damage. Hawaii News Now.

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City issues first 5 illegal vacation rental citations. The city has issued five citations for illegal vacation rental ads culled from online hosting platforms — the first of many expected under a new law that took effect Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

Critics Question Former Council Chair’s Ties To North Shore Project. Some residents ask whether campaign contributions and a job factored into Ernie Martin’s support for a controversial Pupukea project. Civil Beat.

New stadium on fast-track to 2023 opening. Suddenly this past legislative session, replacing the stadium got a green light on a wide-open fast lane and a $350 million jump start. KHON2.

Hawaii’s Only Federal Halfway House Is Closing, Putting More Offenders Behind Bars. The city of Honolulu bought the building as a new home for the Sand Island Treatment Center. Civil Beat.

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Officials warn of increased traffic as UH classes get underway next week. Starting Monday, an estimated 20,000 students are expected to resume classes at the University of Hawaii, with the majority expected to commute to the Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Expect a longer commute next week with back to school jam. Your commute will be longer because a new school year starts for 20,000 university students. KITV.

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DOT to take up cheaper option to address traffic near Turtle Beach. The state is taking action to address traffic on Oahu’s North Shore near Laniakea Beach. Hawaii News Now.

New downtown satellite city hall adds services, staff. City officials Monday formally opened the new Downtown Satellite City Hall at the Chinatown Gateway Plaza, a location that will provide twice the space and some added services unavailable at the old site in an underground Fort Street Mall space two blocks away. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ethics complaint filed against Board of Ethics. The county Board of Ethics finds itself in the unusual position of having an ethics complaint levied against it, along with its attorney. Tribune-Herald.

Kapoho is home to new black sand beaches. New black sand beaches have formed near Kapoho, created by the 2018 eruption of Kilauea volcano in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Buzz for bee industry: Resolution calls for formation of working group. Hawaii County Council on Wednesday will consider a resolution to establish a working group to examine and address challenges in beekeeping on the Big Island by recommending updates to county ordinances. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Maui Traffic Cameras Set to Go Online in Next Two Weeks. New traffic cameras recently installed at 10 key intersections on Maui, will be accessible for viewing via the Hawaii Department of Transportation’s GoAkamai.org website within the next two weeks. Maui Now.

County jobless rate for July up for 11th straight month. Rate last fell on Maui in August ’18. Maui News.

Maui Marine Council Names New Executive Director. The Maui Nui Marine Resource Council appointed Christina Lizzi as its new executive director. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tourism report, auditor post on agenda. A couple of items are on the agenda for Wednesday’s Planning Committee meeting. Garden Island.

‘Unforeseen issues’ trouble for Loop Road. Repairs have been ongoing on Loop Road ever since the April 2018 floods wreaked havoc with falling trees and landslides and made it nearly impassable in some places. Garden Island.

Councilwoman balks at paying HART legal fees, skydiving company had been ordered grounded before fatal crash, county police to enforce state action on Maunakea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honouliuli station construction PC:HART

HART should pay its own legal fees, councilwoman says. Honolulu Councilwoman Heidi Tsuneyoshi says the agency tasked with building the $9.2 billion East Kapolei-to- Ala Moana Center rail line shouldn’t use additional city taxpayer money to hire a lawyer to deal with three federal subpoenas that are looking into wrongdoing at the agency. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu councilmember wants answers from rail officials about what she says is the use of $50,000 in taxpayer money for an outside attorney. Hawaii Public Radio.

Resolution introduced urging HART to pay its own outside legal counsel. A move by the Honolulu rail authority to have city tax payers pay for its legal fees isn’t sitting well with one council member. KHON2.

Resolution introduced ensuring HART pays for its own outside legal council. Council Member Heidi Tsuneyoshi introduced a resolution Friday urging HART to use the $3.7 million it has allocated for legal expenses to pay for counsel related to three federal grand jury subpoenas. KITV.

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State Sends Residents New Survey As It Assesses Foodborne Illnesses. People chosen randomly are being asked about their diets and where they purchase or grow their food. Civil Beat.

Abandoned tax licenses set to be purged. The state Department of Taxation announced July 1 that it has published a notice to revoke tax licenses due to abandonment. Maui News.

Oahu

Company was told to stop skydiving before fatal crash; now ordered to vacate.The company in charge of the airplane that crashed in Mokuleia last month, killing 11 people, had been ordered to stop its skydiving operation well before the fatal crash. KHON2.

Hawaii Governor Approves Funding For New Aloha Stadium. The new law allocates $20 million in general funds to improve the dstrict for public use. It also approves issuance of up to $180 million in revenue bonds and $150 million in general obligation bonds to build a new stadium. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ige signs into law bill that kicks off the redevelopment of Aloha Stadium. Governor David Ige signed into law Monday a bill that kicks off the process of redeveloping the 44-year-old Aloha Stadium into a mixed-use sports and entertainment district. Hawaii News Now.

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Petition for Kaneshiro’s impeachment dismissed. A setback Monday in state Circuit Court won’t discourage Oahu businessman Tracy Yoshimura from going back to the starting line in his quest to have Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro impeached, his attorney said Monday night. Star-Advertiser.

Judge dismisses petition to impeach City Prosecutor Kaneshiro. Oahu Businessman Tracy Yoshimura collected more than 500 signatures through his online petition, but a judge ruled the online signatures could not be verified. KITV.

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Council resolution demands agencies say how they’ll prevent more Kealoha-esque incidents. In the wake of the Kealoha corruption verdicts, one leading Honolulu councilman says he has grave concerns about the ability of city agencies to police their own employees ― and he’s demanding they prove they are capable of preventing corruption in their departments. Hawaii News Now.

'The world knows the truth;' Man framed by Kealohas speaks out for first time since historic verdict. Gerard Puana was set up in the famous 'mailbox' incident by Louis and Katherine Kealoha. Hawaii News Now.

A proposal to raise money for Hawaiian Home Lands turns ugly in Kapole. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wants to develop about 100 acres in Kalaeloa for a solar energy project. Hawaii News Now.

City’s bulky item pickup system has led to mounds of rubbish. As part of the pilot, which is slated to run through the end of January, the city has shifted single-family and multifamily residents from Foster Village to Hawaii Kai, including Waikiki, from monthly scheduled bulky item collection to an appointment-based program. Star-Advertiser.

Never-Ending Waikiki Sidewalk Project Hurts Businesses, Obstructs Tourists. Work that began a year ago is still disrupting the south end of the bustling district. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Council committee hears concerns about police protecting TMT. Prayers, chants and tears — and an outburst or two — marked an afternoon of testimony Monday as more than 50 people shared their mana‘o about Maunakea and the impending construction of a massive telescope there. West Hawaii Today.

Council Questions County Involvement On Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

Residents push to preserve 70-acre parcel but landowner still plans to develop off Lako Street. West Hawaii Today.

Desk Duty For National Park Ranger After Hawaii Shooting. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park law enforcement officer who shot the driver of stolen vehicle is on desk duty while local and federal agencies investigate. Associated Press.

Maui

Koieie Fishpond holds community workday. Efforts follow calls to restore historic pond. Maui News.

Ban on Commercial Permit Operators at Hanakaoo Becomes Law. Maui Now.

Kauai

State to explain water study results.The Department of Health is making a trip to Kauai to explain their recent findings regarding the water quality in the Maha‘ulepu and Waikomo watersheds. Garden Island.

Highway to close at Waipa Bridge. The Hawaii Department of Transportation issued a reminder Monday that the upcoming full weekend closure of Kuhio Highway at Waipa Bridge is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. Friday and continue through 5 a.m. Monday. Garden Island.

Audit blasts state handling of rail money, Aloha Stadium to stay in Halawa, UH president under fire, Health Department reaches settlement with dairy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Train car assembly PC: Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation

State Auditor Blasts DAGS For Failure to Verify Rail Invoices. The Office of the Auditor has issued a blistering report on the failure of state accounting officials to adequately verify invoices from the transit agency developing the Honolulu rail system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Latest Audit: Agency ‘Arbitrary,’ ‘Inconsistent’ In Reviewing Rail Costs. The Hawaii agency that oversees rail spending lacks the proper rules, training and procedures to make sure its reviews are sound, the latest audit finds. Civil Beat.

The state auditor released another report Thursday relating to Honolulu's $9.2 billion rail project. KITV.

Full audit rail oversight report. Lack of Fundamentals: Review of the Department of Accounting and General Services’ Verification of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s Invoices. Hawaii Office of the Auditor.

HART work went off the rails, report says. One of the new Honolulu rail cars was damaged in an “incident,” and another work vehicle that runs on the rail line derailed twice in January, prompting the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation to issue a “safety stand-down” letter last month suspending vehicle operations, according to rail officials. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii Island’s tourism decline contributes to state softening. Tourism performance was mixed across the isles in February with double- digit dips in spending and arrivals from Hawaii island contributing to statewide softening. Star-Advertiser.

Push To Increase Spending On Schools Loses Momentum. Policymakers say more transparency about current spending is needed before more public money is earmarked for schools. Civil Beat.

Faculty union blasts UH president, but stops short of calling for his resignation.  During a contentious Board of Regents meeting Thursday, members of the University of Hawaii’s faculty union blasted school President David Lassner for his handling of proposed budget cuts that would have forced dozens to lose their jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Former high-ranking ILWU official Nate Lum pleaded guilty Thursday to identity theft in federal court. Lum also admitted he failed to file federal tax returns. But under a plea deal, prosecutors agreed to drop a theft charge against him. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Review affirms keeping stadium in Halawa. An alternative site analysis released Thursday by the Aloha Stadium Authority marked a step in the process of replacing the 44-year-old facility and recommended a new stadium and ancillary development be built within the same 98-acre parcel. Star-Advertiser.

Planning For New Stadium Assumes It Would Be Built In Halawa. The current site of Aloha Stadium is the preferred site for construction of a new facility that would include an adjacent business district. Star-Advertiser.

The Stadium Authority marked the beginning of the Environmental Impact Statement and master planning process for a new proposed Aloha Stadium. KHON2.

The Stadium Authority announced Thursday that it is beginning the Environmental Impact Statement and master planning process for a replacement for Aloha Stadium. Pacific Business News.

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Arizona Memorial access to be restored ‘by fall,’ officials say. The National Park Serv­ice said Thursday it has awarded a $2.1 million contract for repairs to a faulty USS Arizona Memorial dock that should be completed “by fall” — in time for the next Dec. 7, 1941, remembrance. Star-Advertiser.

The National Park Service has awarded the contract for repair of the anchoring system for the USS Arizona Memorial dock.  KHON2.

Homelessness dominates public safety concerns at Waikiki conference. Honolulu Police Department Chief Susan Ballard pledged to improve public safety by working with Waikiki stakeholders to make the state’s top tourism district “uncomfortable” for homeless people. Star-Advertiser.

Couple defies city by attending to Kakaako homeless. A Kaimuki couple with a new city contract to provide mobile hot showers for Oahu’s homeless are defying the city in two ways: by continuing to operate twice a month next to the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center and by regularly feeding about 50 homeless people in the area. Star-Advertiser.

Moanalua ‘workforce’ housing complex expansion completed. A 50-year-old affordable rental home complex in Moanalua received a blessing Thursday following the addition of nearly 500 new midprice homes. Star-Advertiser.

40 residents, employees at Honolulu senior facility fall ill; officials suspect norovirus. Hawaii News Now.

Library re-stocking shelves a year after flooding damaged contents. The Aina Haina Library has been closed for almost a year now since just after the historic flooding. KHON2.

Summer Palace of King Kamehameha III vandalized again. KHON2.

Oahu Publications Inc. has sold its 152,574-square-foot print production facility in Kapolei and the 11.61 acres of land beneath it in a $40 million leaseback transaction. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A bill to provide Hawaii County with $60 million to assist with recovery from last year’s Kilauea eruption is expected to have its final vote today in the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

Tourism official: ‘It hasn’t been that great of a start to the year’. Big Island tourism has fallen to near-2017 numbers in the aftermath of the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory To Move To Oahu? Senator Mazie Hirono pressed the Interior Secretary Nominee to get more feedback before making any decision to relocate the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory HVO to Oahu. Big Island Video News.

The state Department of Health on Thursday entered into an agreement with the owners of Big Island Dairy as its operations draw to a close. Under the agreement, Big Island Dairy’s owners are required to terminate dairy operations, remove all cows from confinement on the site, clean and remove the existing wastewater system, and pay $79,000 by June of 2019, either as an administrative penalty or to fund an environmentally beneficial project in the area. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Dairy, Health Department Sign Consent Agreement. Big Island Video News.

A second case of rat lungworm disease has been contracted on Hawaii Island this year, the Hawaii Department of Health announced Thursday. No cases have been reported on any other island in 2019. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Harbor District Office Relocated, Blessed. This work is part of the Harbors Division’s facility improvement projects planned throughout the commercial harbor system that is aimed at supporting the state’s economic growth and maritime industries. Maui Now.

The battle against climate change got a boost Wednesday when Hawaii and California public utility commissions announced that they’ll be teaming up to fight the green fight. Maui News.

Police and courts dealing with more mental health cases. Another round of Crisis Intervention Team training completed. Maui News.

Kauai

Local health clinic awarded $1.4M. A community health center on Kauai focused on providing care to Native Hawaiians will be getting over a million dollars in federal funding. Garden Island.

The Lihue Business Association’s Thursday meeting at Duke’s Canoe Club focused on medical marijuana. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism nears 10M mark, Kauai dairy plan dropped, lawmaker seeks to ban cigarettes, $15 minimum wage and recreational marijuana bills advance, county mayors present wish lists, lots more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Luau in Kailua-Kona ©2019 All Hawaii News

Isle tourism hit nearly 10M arrivals in 2018. Hawaii welcomed a record 9.9 million tourists in 2018, just 45,452 visitors shy of a 10 million benchmark that had been anticipated before head winds emerged in the back half of last year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii saw nearly 10M visitors last year. That’s half a million more than in 2017. Hawaii News Now.

The total number of visitors to Hawaii increased to nearly 10 million — and the amount they spent while here increased nearly 7 percent — in 2018 compared to the previous year, Hawaii Tourism Authority found in a report released Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii visitors spend an average of $201 per day in 2018. Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands spent $17.82 billion in 2018, an increase of 6.8 percent compared to 2017, according to preliminary year-end statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. KHON2.

Airbnb criticizes Hawaii attempt to subpoena host records. Airbnb is pushing back against Hawaii’s attempt to find tax delinquents by subpoenaing 10 years’ worth of invoices, receipts and other records from the home-sharing platform’s island hosts, calling it an unprecedented, “massive intrusion” that violates state and federal law. Associated Press.

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County Mayors Brief House/Senate Finance Committee Members. All four county mayors support the Governor’s plan to remove the Transient Accommodations Tax restriction, which is currently capped at $103-million for the counties and provide them with a 23.1% share. Hawaii Public Radio.

The county mayors told state lawmakers Thursday that emergency funding for the Kilauea eruption and the Kauai flooding are among their top priorities this legislative session. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers advance bills to adopt $15 minimum wage. House and Senate lawmakers advanced bills Thursday that would increase the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour for many workers in the years ahead and also would offer a tax credit to small businesses to try to cushion the impact of the wage increases on businesses. Star-Advertiser.

The first bill to raise the minimum wage in Hawaii made it through its first hearing with lawmakers Thursday. KITV.

Almost Half The Senate Signs On To Bill To Legalize Recreational Marijuana. The prospects are promising for the measure in the 25-member Senate, but Gov. David Ige opposes legalization. Civil Beat.

Ban on cigarette sales proposed for Hawaii. Adults younger than age 30 could be legally prohibited from buying cigarettes in less than a year's time -- and all cigarette sales would be banned in Hawaii in five years -- under a bill by State Representative Richard Creagan. KHON2.

Lawmakers call for tougher laws in wake of Kakaako crash. State legislative leaders from the House and Senate, galvanized by the recent crash in Kakaako that killed three pedestrians, gathered Thursday morning at the state Capitol to call for tougher laws to address a growing number of drunken and impaired drivers in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

In wake of horrific crash, lawmakers look to strengthen DUI laws. Hawaii News Now.

Regents reject UH president’s plan to cut tuition. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents Thursday turned away the UH president’s proposal to reduce tuition across the statewide system. Hawaii News Now.

Correctional reform bills to be heard Friday. Two legislative measures introduced as a result of the report of the Task Force on Prison Reform will be heard on February 1 by the House Committee on Public Safety, Veterans and Military Affairs. KHON2.

High Turnover In Gabbard’s Office Preceded ‘Tulsi 2020’ Problems. The Hawaii congresswoman has had a hard time holding on to staff, so much so that her turnover rate has been among the highest in all of Congress. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Developer breaks ground on first of at least 5 high-rises near Ala Moana. Construction on the first of at least five condominium towers in the Ala Moana area kicked off Thursday with rain and a blessing from Hawaiian musician and priest Aaron Mahi. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Stadium’s board seeks $30M to battle damage. With approximately 200 weathered steel components and 85 decking panels “exhibiting severe corrosion,” according to a new study, Aloha Stadium will require “at minimum” $30 million from the Legislature over the next two years to remain safe and operable, the Stadium Authority said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Stadium needs $30 million in repairs to keep going. KHON2.

HPD misconduct report reveals multiple officers found driving under the influence of alcohol. The Honolulu Police Department has released a new report outlining misconduct within the department. KHON2.

City moving to bring feral cat population under control. The city is moving aggressively to keep in check the population of feral cats that roam alleys, empty lots and other hidden corners of Oahu. KHON2.

How Many More Cars Can We Cram On Oahu? Since 1995, the growth in registered vehicles on Oahu has far outpaced the population increase — making any attempt to keep up with new roads futile. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Kim seeks GET flexibility. Mayor Harry Kim asked state lawmakers in Honolulu on Thursday to grant more flexibility in how counties can use their general excise tax surcharge. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Mayor Harry Kim At The Capitol. Big Island Video News.

County releases draft vacation rental rules. The county Planning Department wants to hear from the public about its proposed rules regulating the rentals on the island. West Hawaii Today.

The number of visitors to the Big Island in 2018 dropped from the previous year, while visitor spending remained flat in the wake of the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

An effort to continue astronomy on the summit of Mauna Kea for the next several decades, and how that effort might affect the Thirty Meter Telescope project, was discussed at the State Legislature recently. Big Island Video News.

Residents of Kona Vistas, nearby subdivisions meet with mayor about proposed development. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council panel votes down mayor’s prosecutor pick. A Maui County Council committee late Wednesday night voted, 5-4, to recommend rejecting Mayor Michael Victorino’s appointment of John D. Kim as prosecuting attorney. Maui News.

Joint Training with Hawaii National Guard. The Maui Police Department, Fire Department and Emergency Management Agency joined the Hawaii National Guard and other agencies for a full-scale training exercise Thursday near the Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Plans for Maui agricultural lands reviewed by Mayor. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino reviewed Mahi Pono’s conceptual plans Wednesday for agricultural development on 41,000 acres formerly used for sugar cane cultivation in Central Maui. KHON2.

A pre-opening of the 39-unit Hale Mahaolu Ewalu Phase I affordable senior rental housing project and groundbreaking for the 22-unit Phase II were held Wednesday morning in Pukalani. Maui News.

Black ice but no snow atop of Haleakala. Black ice shut down the summit of Haleakala for a few hours on Tuesday as chilly conditions swept across the islands, though forecasters did not expect snow at the summit anytime soon. Maui News.

Kauai

Proposal For New Dairy On Kauai Dropped After 5-Year Effort. Hawaii Dairy Farms was thwarted by regulatory obstacles, lawsuits and community opposition. Civil Beat.

Ulupono Initiative scraps plan for dairy farm on Kauai. Socially minded investment firm Ulupono Initiative has abandoned an 8-year effort to establish a dairy on Kauai that aimed to be the state’s biggest local milk source. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Dairy Farms announced Thursday it was discontinuing plans for a pasture-based dairy farm on Kauai. Garden Island.

Tourism reaches new heights. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Kauai had 118,873 visitors in December, bringing the total for the year to 1.38 million, the most ever for this small island, and a 7.6 percent increase over 2017. Garden Island.

UH tuition cuts proposed, more on Gabbard's past, Ozawa-Waters battle heats up, Maui newspaper editor moves to mayor's office, Kauai seeks $130k fine for illegal vacation rental, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii at Manoa ©2019 All Hawaii News

UH proposes tuition cuts and freezes for students at all campuses. KITV.

University of Hawaii proposes holding off on tuition hikes for all students. Hawaii News Now.

UH proposes tuition decrease, then freeze. The UH administration is seeking to increase affordability, improve price competitiveness and reverse enrollment declines by instituting a tuition decrease that would apply to nearly all students at the 10-campus system for this academic year and then freeze those lowered rates through 2023. Star-Advertiser.

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A New Public Corruption Scandal Looms For Hawaii. A Honolulu engineer admitted paying $400,000 in bribes, but secrecy still surrounds the state employees and Micronesian officials who allegedly accepted payoffs. Civil Beat.

Tulsi Gabbard’s run for president brings questions about her past. Star-Advertiser.

When the Honolulu Star-Advertiser began reporting on a story about Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and the Science of Identity Foundation, a religious organization founded by a local spiritual leader named Chris Butler, the organization began aggressively arguing that the newspaper was using religion as a “political weapon” and was fomenting religious bigotry. Star-Advertiser.

Not All Hawaii Lawmakers Embrace Gut-And-Replace. At least five senators and two representatives oppose the practice of inserting whole new language and often a different purpose into legislation with little public notice. Civil Beat.

Bail reform on tap in Legislature. A task force established to examine pretrial detention for criminal defendants has recommended eliminating bail for nonviolent offenders charged with misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors but stopped short of eliminating cash bail altogether. Tribune-Herald.

A lawmaker is pushing to add fluoride to the state's public water system to promote oral health in Hawaii. KITV.

We Have To Move Our Homes And Businesses Away From The Shoreline. But How? Hawaii lawmakers will confront major policy questions this session as they grapple with looming problems from a warming planet. Civil Beat.

168 Whales Sighted in 15 Minutes During Whale Counts. More than 572 volunteers gathered data from the shores of O‘ahu, Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i islands during the first event of the 2019 Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count, and on Maui with the Great Whale Count by Pacific Whale Foundation. Maui Now.

Commentary: Abercrombie’s preschool actions then are the building blocks for Ige’s program today. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

If Honolulu City Council candidate Trevor Ozawa thought Hawaii Supreme Court justices had conflicts of interest with his opponent Tommy Waters, he could have objected before they participated in deciding on Waters’ election challenge, the state Judiciary said. Star-Advertiser.

A new Honolulu City Council District 4 election will be held within four months, with the council planning to appoint an interim representative for now. Civil Beat.

Trevor Ozawa, Tommy Waters split over high court’s ruling. Star-Advertiser.

"Dirty politics": City Council candidate Trevor Ozawa considering legal action after Supreme Court ruling. The Supreme Court invalidated Trevor Ozawa's win over Tommy Waters for the district four seat Friday. KITV.

War of words as battle for Honolulu city council seat continues. KHON2.

Ozawa: Conflicts of interest tainted state Supreme Court’s judgement. Hawaii News Now.

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Honolulu police officers volunteered to testify in Kealoha case. Lower-ranking police officers asked to be subpoenaed for the Honolulu Ethics Commission’s investigation into then- Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his then- deputy prosecutor wife, Katherine Kealoha, according to documents the Kealohas recently disclosed in their upcoming federal conspiracy and obstruction trial. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Gregg Takayama hopes to convince the federal government to sell the Federal Detention Center next to the Honolulu airport to the state to use as a replacement for the aging Oahu Community Correctional Center in Kalihi. Star-Advertiser.

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For the first time in a decade of discussion about the future of rapidly deteriorating Aloha Stadium, bills before the Legislature propose a by-the-numbers financial blueprint and define a process for ancillary redevelopment of the 98-acre parcel. Star-Advertiser.

The future of Aloha Stadium might not include the beloved swap meet. Hawaii News Now.

Some lawmakers want more than new Aloha Stadium. KHON2.

Lawmakers look at building parks, condos, even hotels in Aloha Stadium district. The idea for redevelopment is to reel in money for the state's economy. KITV.

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New allegations surface against a former trustee of Heiress Kawananakoa. Attorneys for Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa are accusing her former trustee of taking money from her the day he was fired. Hawaii News Now.

The city prosecutor has filed papers in Honolulu District court to dismiss charges against five men who were arrested in a failed attempt to seize the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Members of the county Charter Commission are having second thoughts about a ballot measure reducing how much of the county’s budget must be used to buy land for preservation. West Hawaii Today.

The CEO of Alaska Aerospace Corp. said the organization will have some homework to do after a contentious meeting with Department of Hawaiian Home Lands residents Friday about its proposed small satellite launch facility. Tribune-Herald.

Kamehameha Schools, which owns 54 acres at Keauhou Bay, is developing a management plan intended to move traffic and commercial operations away from historic sites and reduce pressure on the bayfront’s resources. West Hawaii Today.

Homeless numbers in Hawaii vs public perception. West Hawaii Today.

A study to determine whether the Pohoiki boat ramp can reopen may happen in months or in mere weeks. Tribune-Herald.

Lawyers discuss Lloyd’s of London lawsuits at meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Council advances Kaupulehu project. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The state has agreed to pay $585,000 to settle a lawsuit by two former foster children who were sexually molested by a state-licensed Maui foster parent. Star-Advertiser.

Hana Highway group looks to make road safer while raising cultural awareness. KHON2.

Lawmakers mull ways to deal with fire risk, relief. State and local lawmakers are looking for ways to provide relief for West Maui residents still working to rebuild their homes and crops after fires in August. Maui News.

South Maui park options presented. Three concepts for the undeveloped portion of the South Maui Community Park will be presented from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Kenolio Recreation Center, 131 S. Kihei Road. Maui News.

Colleen Uechi named assistant city editor. Her appointment comes amid a newsroom reorganization brought on by the departures of City Editor Brian Perry and reporter Chris Sugidono to the mayoral administration of Michael Victorino. Maui News.

Kauai

Commission recommends $130,000 fine. The owners of a vacation rental property on the Wailua River may be fined $130,000 for violating county zoning ordinances. Garden Island.

Coral reefs bouncing back. On Kauai, corals battled black band disease from 2004 to about 2015 and did experience some impacts of bleaching, but in the last year, divers reported an increase in coral growth at Anini Beach on Kauai’s northeast side in March — a March report from underwater photographer Terry Lilley mentioned healthy and disease-free corals that “continue to grow at a rapid rate.” Garden Island.

Kauai Beach Resort has undergone many transformations since its construction in the 1970s, and April 1 another hospitality company is taking over management of the resort. Garden Island.