Showing posts with label Andria Tupola. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Andria Tupola. Show all posts

Sunday, August 12, 2018

It's Ige, Tupola, Green, Case. Plus three incumbents toppled in Legislature, final official results for all counties, more primary election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Gov. David Ige at election eve grand rally ©2018 All Hawaii News
Final statewide results here.

Ige defeats Hanabusa, will face Tupola in November. In a stunning reversal of political fortunes, Gov. David Ige brushed off opposition from much of Hawaii’s Democratic establishment Saturday on his way to defeating his top rival, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Defeats Hanabusa In Democratic Primary For Governor. Incumbent Hawaii Gov. David Ige will be heavily favored in the general election against the GOP nominee, state Rep. Andria Tupola. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige won the Democratic primary in his bid for a second term in office Saturday, defeating U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who gave up her seat in Congress to run for governor. Associated Press.

Incumbent David Ige fought off a fierce challenge from U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa on Saturday night to win the Democratic primary race for governor in his bid for a second term. Hawaii News Now.

Gubernatorial candidate Colleen Hanabusa cedes race, asks supports to vote Ige next. KITV.


Tupola Wins GOP Primary For Governor. The state lawmaker defeated perennial GOP candidate John Carroll and former DOE official Ray L’Heureux. Civil Beat.
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Green’s well-funded campaign outpaces fellow senator Tokuda. State Sen. Josh Green edged out his Senate colleague Jill Tokuda Saturday, in the five-way Democratic race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser.

Josh Green Prevails In Democratic Lieutenant Governor Race. Super PAC funding helped state Sen. Josh Green gain a significant advertising edge over state Sen. Jill Tokuda in the lead-up to the election. Civil Beat.

State Sen. Josh Green won the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor on Saturday night, emerging as the top vote-getter in a crowded field of seasoned politicians. Hawaii News Now.

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In the hotly contested 1st congressional district primary race, late entry Ed Case soundly defeated his opponents in Democratic Party voting today. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case Wins 1st Congressional District Primary Race. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard easily wins the Democratic nomination for the 2nd Congressional District. Civil Beat.
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Three incumbents in the state Legislature, one in the Senate and two in the House, lost their Capitol jobs after nearly all of the votes were counted in Saturday’s primary election. Star-Advertiser.

3 Incumbent Lawmakers Lose State Legislative Seats. Sen. Brickwood Galuteria, as well as Reps. Cindy Evans and Lei Learmont, lost their re-election efforts. Civil Beat.

19 incumbents secure seats after running unopposed in the primary. KHON2.

OHA Candidates Headed To General Election Runoff. Kalei Akaka and Esther Kia‘aina will face off for the Oahu trustee seat while three incumbents advance with three challengers to November. And three incumbents trustees — John Waihee IV, Lei Ahu Isa and Rowena Akana — will face three challengers for the three at-large positions on the OHA board. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Humble pie on the menu at post-election Unity Breakfast. There are bound to be some awkward moments at the Democratic Party’s Unity Breakfast this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Final Oahu results here.

Incumbent Riviere beats Hee for Senate seat representing North Shore, Windward areas. Hawaii News Now.

In surprising twist, challenger beating incumbent in state Senate race. Incumbent Sen. Brickwood Galuteria is behind challenger Sharon Moriwaki. KHON2.

In City Council races, some candidates win outright while others head to runoff. Hawaii News Now.
Tommy Waters and Trevor Ozawa headed to November runoff. Political newcomer Heidi Tsuneyoshi and veteran politician Carol Fukunaga clinched victories in their respective Honolulu City Council races, while Councilman Trevor Ozawa will need to go head-to-head against former state Rep. Tommy Waters in November to win re-election. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Final Hawaii Island results here.

Sen. Lorraine R. Inouye, who represents North Hawaii in the state Senate, defeated challenger Heather Kimball in Saturday night’s Democratic primary. Because no other party fielded candidates in the race for the Senate District 4 seat, Saturday’s primary decides the election. West Hawaii Today.

Dru Kanuha appeared on track to defeat Brenda Ford in a hotly contested case Saturday for the Democratic nomination for the state’s 3rd Senate District. West Hawaii Today.

State Rep. Richard Onishi appeared certain of victory Saturday night, with a significant lead over his sole opponent in the Democratic primary election for House District 3. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council incumbents fared well in Saturday’s primary election except in District 4, where Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara was trailing challenger Ashley Kierkiewicz. Tribune-Herald.

Incumbent Councilwoman Maile David easily held her District 6 seat against two challengers Saturday, winning a third term without being forced to a runoff in the general election. West Hawaii Today.

Incumbent Kohala Councilman Tim Richards won his second term Saturday, holding off his lone challenger by claiming 2,531 votes, or 54.16 percent of the vote with all three precincts reporting Saturday night. Challenger Maya Parish won 2,142 votes, and 409 voters left the selection blank. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Final Maui results
here.

Former Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino took a strong early lead in the mayor’s race and held on throughout the night to advance to the general election along with Council Member Elle Cochran on Saturday night. Maui News.

Baker leads Amato by 89 votes for Senate seat. Yamashita holds on to slim lead over Lawrence with one precinct still out. Maui News.

Kauai

Final Kauai results here.

Mayoral race: The final readout of the primary election, with 16 of 16 precincts reporting, showed Derek Kawakami with 8,633 votes, Mel Rapozo with 3,925, JoAnn Yukimura with 3,480 and Lenny Rapozo with 1,003. Garden Island.

County Council incumbents were poised to easily move on to November’s general election, holding four of the top five spots with all 16 precincts reporting in Saturday’s primary election. Garden Island.

Monday, July 16, 2018

Gov. Ige, Tupola, pull ahead in poll, Trump support rises, Kauai mayor mulls suspension of vacation rental ban, 29-year-old wins $1M in Safeway contest, lava nears Big Island beach park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa
The commanding 20-percentage-point lead that U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa enjoyed over Gov. David Ige in the Democratic primary for governor just four months ago has evaporated, with Ige pulling ahead one month before election day, according to a new Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

New voter poll shows shift in support for gubernatorial candidates. Hawaii News Now.

New poll numbers are out in the race for governor, and they include some dramatic reversals. The new front-runners were once the underdogs. KITV.

A plurality of Democratic voters think Gov. David Ige is the most trustworthy candidate running this year and also rate him highest for leadership ability in the new Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Governor’s Race: Clear Differences On Energy Policy. Among the biggest splits between the two Democratic contenders is whether natural gas should be part of the state’s energy future. Civil Beat.

Reaching the homestretch in her bid to upset Gov. David Ige in the Aug. 11 Democratic primary, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa mused last week about what she calls a “fascinating statewide campaign” and on what she’s learned on the campaign trail, especially from millennials. Maui News.

State Rep. Andria Tupola has surged ahead of her opponent, attorney and former state Sen. John Carroll, in the Republican primary for governor, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Support for President Donald Trump has risen to 91 percent among Hawaii Republicans — up from 73 percent in March — according to the latest Honolulu Star-Advertiser Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

OHA At-Large Candidates Have Raised Little Money So Far. None of the three incumbents — Lei Ahu Isa, Rowena Akana and John Waihee IV — reported spending any money this year and two are in debt. Civil Beat.

Australia adds to amphibious capabilities at RIMPAC. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Following The Money In Oahu Legislative Races. Fresh faces are raising and spending more than some longtime lawmakers with better name recognition. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation awarded a $25.9M construction contract for the first phase of its Kamehameha Highway resurfacing project to Road and Highway Builders LLC. Pacific Business News.

Kawananakoa records secret despite Supreme Court directive. Star-Advertiser.

Long-time TV newsman Jai Cunningham leaving to join HART. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu woman wins $1 million in Safeway contest. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu inflation slowed in the first half of the year as the state economy continued to see modest growth. Star-Advertiser.

The office vacancy rate in Downtown Honolulu reached an all-time high of 19.4 percent in the second quarter, and landlords looking to increase income are boosting parking rates for downtown spots, according to the second quarter office market report by CBRE. Pacific Business News.

Chick-fil-A plans Hawaii debut. A national fast-food chain largely known for a simple yet highly adored fried-chicken sandwich and commercials featuring cows plans its first Hawaii restaurant on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava about half-mile from Isaac Hale park. The southern boundary of the flow front at the ocean entry of lava from Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone remained a little more than a half-mile away from Isaac Hale Beach Park and Pohoiki boat ramp on Sunday evening, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

A small island has appeared offshore from where lava from fissure 8 enters the ocean. Tribune-Herald.

Pohoiki, Overflows, & The Tiny Lava Island. Big Island Video News.

Explosions, eruptions continue inundating the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

The state Attorney General continues to provide no updates or shed further light on the status of a stolen drug evidence case involving the Hawaii County Police Department. West Hawaii Today.

Developers, businesses and single-home builders aren’t supposed to construct new cesspools anywhere in Hawaii, but a labor shortage within one Hawaii County department creates what is essentially a loophole, leaving open the possibility to do just that on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Sudden shutdown displaces charter school’s students and teachers. Star-Advertiser.

Woman’s death from heroin overdose leads to dismantling of homeless camp. West Hawaii Today.

There’s one thing to understand right away about the root of the opioid crisis — there is no one thing. West Hawaii Today.

Once every decade, a commission is created to review and propose amendments to the county’s fundamental governing document, its county charter. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The best and not-so-best worlds:Looking at Maui’s hospital changeover, a year later. 1 year after hospital transition – growing pains: A more nimble hospital system is still facing employee and doctor recruitment challenges. Maui News.

Seabury Hall looking for new head of school. Board chooses not to renew contract of previous headmaster. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. is considering lifting a ban on legal transient vacation units on Kauai’s flood-­ravaged north shore if the owners agree to house some of the 15 families displaced when their homes were destroyed by severe flooding and landslides in mid-April. Star-Advertiser.

While coffee farmers throughout the state are getting their feet wet with new technology, Kauai Coffee Company is working on creating it. Garden Island.

The Mayor’s Advisory Committee for Treatment and Community Integration will host “Drug Addiction 101,” a community meeting at Kapaa Missionary Church from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

Sunscreen, pesticide, fake service animal bans move to governor as Legislature nears final days, Big Island braces for Kilauea volcano eruption, Honolulu homeless sweep nets tons of trash, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy House majority
Hawaii House of Representatives PC: House Majority
Lawmakers say they made good on their pledge to address the state’s homeless and affordable-housing crises with strategies they described as groundbreaking and bold during the 2018 legislative session, which ends Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The Most Progressive Legislative Session In A Long Time. From approving medical aid in dying to banning certain sunscreens and pesticide chemicals, legislators passed bills they only thought about in years past. Civil Beat.

After months of back and forth, lawmakers have settled on dozens of measures that could soon become law. The following list contains some of the measures now heading to the governor's office for approval. KHON2.

Bills awaiting the governor's action can be found here.

Hawaii lawmakers on Tuesday passed a measure that would ban sunscreen containing oxybenzone in an effort to protect coral reefs. Senators and representatives also voted to prohibit licensed professional counselors from attempting to change the sexual orientation of minors. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers passed a bill today banning the sale of sunscreens containing chemicals believed to be harmful to coral reefs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers approved a ban Tuesday on the sale of sunscreens with chemicals that could be harmful to the environment. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s Legislature has approved the first chlorpyrifos ban in the nation as a component of a pesticide disclosure bill approved by both the Senate and the House Tuesday. Garden Island.

A bill that would fine people fraudulently representing their pets as service dogs was approved unanimously on both floors of the state Legislature today, and now awaits the governor’s signature to become law. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would penalize people who falsely present their pets as service animals passed its final reading Tuesday and now goes to Gov. David Ige for final consideration. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii moved a step closer to expanding protections for students discriminated against on the basis of sex, gender identity or sexual orientation when the Legislature passed a bill Tuesday establishing a law to prohibit such treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii tourism officials are offering a sweet deal to six New York City workaholics: Come to Hawaii for an all-expenses-paid, week-long vacation to "work from home" — island style. Hawaii News Now.

A state judge has scheduled a hearing on state Rep. Andria Tupola’s petition for a temporary restraining order against fellow Hawaii Republican Party member Eric Ryan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii regulators have finally approved an on-bill financing program to boost the adoption of clean energy technology across the state, almost seven years after lawmakers passed a corresponding piece of legislation to investigate such a program. Pacific Business News.

Matson Inc. doubled its profit in the first quarter despite delivering about the same number of shipping containers to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu-based shipping company Matson Inc. reported net income of $14.2 million, or 33 cents per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2018, an increase of 102 percent compared to net income of $7 million, or 16 cents per diluted share, during last year’s comparable period. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City clears out 5 tons of trash during sweep of Kakaako parks. The estimated 80 homeless people living in Kakaako Waterfront Park and its sister parks had dwindled to about 30 to 50 Monday afternoon following days of warnings about the impending sweep. Star-Advertiser.

Price tag grows to move homeless off state land — and keep them off. Hawaii News Now.

A recreation center at the University of Hawaii needs hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs, only four years after opening. KHON2.

Sidewalk Extensions Please Some But Infuriate Others. A City Council committee passes a bill that would prohibit any more extensions, even though they’re intended to increase safety. Civil Beat.

City Councilmember Ikaika Anderson is spearheading a measure to crack down on illegal monster homes. Hawaii News Now.

A majority of condo owners at the 35-story Marco Polo have voted in favor of retrofitting the building with automated sprinklers several months after a deadly fire raged through the building, killing four people. Associated Press.

Another high rise is being planned for Ward Village. It will be 41 stories and will have 570 condo units. KHON2.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will conduct anti-terrorism force protection training exercises Wednesday, May 2 and Thursday, May 3 from about 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. KITV.

State crews completed a four-day clean-up of the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Tuesday. KITV.

The city intends to enter into a public-private partnership with Topgolf Hawai‘i, which would invest $50 million replacing the Ala Wai Golf Course’s traditional driving range with a high-tech version and other golf-related activities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

An intrusion of magma into Kilauea’s East Rift Zone shook the ground under lower Puna residents’ feet Tuesday and stirred worries about a new volcanic vent opening near populated areas. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Civil Defense was activated at 3 a.m. Tuesday in response to a significant increase in seismic activity and deformation — changes in the surface of a volcano — following the collapse of the Puu Oo crater floor on Kilauea’s East Rift Zone. Star-Advertiser.

Earthquakes, Crater Collapse On Kilauea May Indicate New Eruption. An “intrusion” of lava could affect a popular access point where people can hike or bike into a viewing area. Associated Press.

A half mile long, steaming crack was discovered just west of Puu Oo crater during an overflight by scientists on Tuesday, following the collapse of the crater floor the day before. Big Island Video News.

New USGS Map Shows Location of New Crack in Kilauea. Big Island Now.

Residents in Puna are being urged to be on alert after a series of small earthquakes in Kilauea volcano's east rift zone, which may indicate an eruption is imminent. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Senate passed a Senate Bill on Tuesday that would create a Hilo Community Economic District. Big Island Video News.

Effort seeks to preserve native trees south of Palamanui campus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Starting May 1, the County of Maui’s free Electronic Recycling Program will no longer accept a list of items including: DVDs and VCRs; phones; audio-visual equipment including AV screens, cameras and projectors; transmission devices; audio equipment including receivers; CD and record players, amplifiers or speakers. Maui Now.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard hosted a “Congress On Your Corner” event at the Queen Kaahumanu Center in Kahului on Monday, where she visited with local residents and updated them on her work in Washington, DC.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Three meetings scheduled this week are aimed to respond to questions about disaster recovery, health concerns, relief loans and assistance. Garden Island.

Rum Distilleries Keep Hawaii’s Sugar Industry Alive. The islands’ cane crop will never return to the production levels of plantation days, but it’s essential for these local businesses. Civil Beat.

Monday, April 23, 2018

Ige and Hanabusa spar over side dealings, Luke apologizes for attack on Ige, Tupola seeks restraining order against GOP colleague, former Inouye aide's political clout, $14B budget agreement reached, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, Colleen Hanabusa
Ige, Hanabusa spar over alleged conflicts as primary race heats up. Gov. David Ige is ratcheting up his election-year criticism of U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa by reviving the issue of her two-year push for a huge state tax credit for development of an aquarium at Ko Olina, alleging the deal demonstrates that she makes decisions “on behalf of self-interest and special interests.” Star-Advertiser.

House finance leader apologizes for attack on Ige. House Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke apologized on the House floor Friday for comments she made in a Honolulu Star-Advertiser story April 15 in which she described Gov. David Ige as “almost like this desperate caged animal.” Star-Advertiser.

For Hawaii Politicians, It Pays To Have Jennifer Sabas On Your Side. Support from the former top aide to the late Sen. Daniel Inouye has been a boon to two prominent candidates in their bids for higher office. Civil Beat.

Tupola seeks restraining order against activist. Republican candidate for governor state Rep. Andria Tupola has filed for a temporary restraining order against the leader of a Republican splinter group, alleging she has been harassed and cyberbullied. Star-Advertiser.

House, Senate Agree To $14 Billion State Budget Bill. A joint conference committee passed the overall budget bill ahead of schedule to fast-track funding for areas hit by flooding. Civil Beat.

House and Senate conferees on Friday approved a final version of the state budget bill, which includes operating and capital improvement monies to run the state government. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Businesses Are Making Billions Off The Military. Hawaii is second only to Virginia in the amount of money that flows into the state through Defense Department spending. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Attorney General Russell Suzuki on Thursday said the state received more than $84.7 million as part of its arbitration settlement with the tobacco industry. Pacific Business News.

Report says Hawaii can reach renewable energy goal faster, and cheaper. A report released by the Honolulu-based Elemental Excelerator on Friday said Hawaii can achieve 84 percent of its clean energy goal by 2030, more than double the state’s target for that year, and that it would be cheaper than not doing anything. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric reduces annual oil usage by more than 2M barrels over seven years. Hawaiian Electric Cos. on Thursday released its 11th annual Sustainability Report for 2017-2018 describing the utility's efforts to address climate change and contribute to community sustainability. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu-based ocean cargo transportation firm Matson Inc. said in an annual report that its charitable giving rose 28 percent to $3.7 million last year from $2.9 million the year before. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Lack of officers is hurting operation of HPD, chief says. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard last week gave the City Council a rough but far-ranging outline of her priorities for the department, including plans to increase HPD’s ranks significantly and create a larger yet friendlier presence in the community. Star-Advertiser.

Public comment on the Honolulu Police Department is being sought Tuesday as part of an on-site reaccreditation assessment being conducted by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. Star-Advertiser.

The city is opening two disaster recovery centers on Oahu to help flood victims get help. Hawaii News Now.

East Oahu residents still picking up the pieces after damaging floods. Hawaii News Now.

Public beach access at Kahala Resort debated. Kahala Hotel &Resort, which holds a state-issued revocable permit to use its public beachfront for private purposes, promised area residents and beachgoers last year it would widen and improve an existing path to delineate public and private spaces. Star-Advertiser.

Tenant ‘farmer’ ran junkyard, says property owner stuck with fines nearing $1 million. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Elementary and Middle School Administrators Association announced on Sunday that Linell Dilwith of Stevenson Middle School is the 2018 Hawaii National Distinguished Principal. Hawaii News Now.

From 'trash' tree to treasure. Albizia: arguably Hawaii’s most maligned invasive plant species, a real threat to life, property and Hawaii’s native forests. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council committee to hear vacation rental bill. West Hawaii Today.

Airbnb hits record Merrie Monarch high. West Hawaii Today.

Software problems hold up building permits. Hawaii County has not been accepting new building permit applications since Monday due to a software snafu. Tribune-Herald.

Thirteen families living on Mauna Ziona Church property in North Kona are likely to be evicted in the coming weeks, more than two years after the property was purchased at county tax auction by the Free Church of Tonga-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

State House blocks bills against Thirty Meter Telescope. A bill that would impose a construction freeze atop Mauna Kea and potentially thwart development of the Thirty Meter Telescope appears to have been dealt a fatal blow. Star-Advertiser.

The long-delayed opening of new ball fields in Hilo is being set back indefinitely after an engineering report identified drainage problems. Tribune-Herald.

Aviation noise to persist over Puna. Puna residents hoping for regulation of helicopter tours headed to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will have to settle for resolutions instead. Tribune-Herald.

The state Legislature announced Friday that a $300,000 allocation will be made in the state budget to fund rat lungworm disease research at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A faulty decision by a state commission over Hawaii land use looks like it will cost the state as little as $1 instead of a previously agreed-to $1 million. Star-Advertiser.

Attorneys for South Kohala developer Bridge Aina Lea LLC are seeking hundreds of thousands of dollars for their work after recently prevailing over the state in a federal takings claim case. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council seeks ‘pause’ on bridge project. Approved resolution can only urge delay of process, still putting federal funding at risk. Maui News.

Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee Chairman Riki Hokama said Friday that he would not include a tiered scheme for property taxes in his proposed version of the budget because the county’s real property tax system is not yet equipped to handle it. Maui News.

Maui benefits from completion of House-Senate budget dealings. Maui News.

The newly completed Honoapiilani Highway realignment Phase IB-2 opens to traffic today, Monday, April 23, 2018 following a blessing held last week. Maui Now.

Maui’s Business Challenges. Maui business leaders say they face the same conditions as Oahu— only more so. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kauai County announced Sunday that it is working with the Department of Education to open satellite classrooms for students cut off from the rest of the island by landslides on the island’s north shore following the devastating storm earlier this month. Star-Advertiser.

Haena, Wainiha promised school, gas, trash service. Hundreds of people attended a community meeting at Opakapaka Bar and Grill Sunday to hear from county and state officials about resources available for Wainiha and Haena residents cut off after last weekend’s onslaught of torrential rains and flooding. Garden Island.

Hanalei Elementary to reopen as flood-damaged Kauai dries out. Hawaii News Now.

Damage from recent flooding and landslides has made some tourists wary about vacationing on the Garden Isle. Garden Island.

Kauai to set up makeshift classroom, fuel rations in recovery efforts. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai mayor provides answers for transportation, sanitation challenges. KHON2.

Over 400 people attend community meeting in Wainiha. Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr., and county and state officials held a community meeting at the Hanalei Colony Resort for the isolated Wainiha and Haena residents. KITV.

Several hundred people of all ages gathered at the site of the Kealia Farms farmers market Sunday to caravan up to help the farmers and tenants of the Kealia Valley dig out following last weekend’s record-breaking rains. Garden Island.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard was on Kauai from Thursday through Saturday to assist with recovery efforts after a record-setting storm wiped out many homes and local businesses, left communities isolated due to landslides, and required hundreds to be evacuated. KITV.

Lawmakers Question Whether State Should Buy Kauai Farmland. A bill would provide $6 million to the Hawaii Agribusiness Development Corp. to acquire the land, part of which is already leased to a seed company. Civil Beat.

Sixty people attend meeting to discuss Lawai Kai Beach access. Garden Island.

Monday, January 22, 2018

Ige to give State of the State address this morning as lawmakers criticize missile alert snafu, mayors seek taxing power, grim budgets as employee costs rise, Honolulu councilman seeks false missile alarm working group, federal employees face furloughs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo courtesy Rep. Della Au Bellati
Gov. Ige addresses legislative committee PC: Rep. Della Au Bellati
Amid sharp critiques, Ige to deliver fourth State of the State. After a difficult week for his administration and amid mounting questions over his leadership, Gov. David Ige will address lawmakers and constituents on Monday in his fourth State of the State address. Hawaii News Now.

State public funds’ shortfall hits $25B. The two public funds designed to meet the future pension and health care needs of government employees and retirees are a combined $25 billion in the hole with a growing shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s transient accommodations tax collections jumped 14 percent in 2017. Hawaii’s transient accommodations tax collections increased 13.8 percent to $508.4 million in fiscal year 2017, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s annual report to the state Legislature. Pacific Business News.

County Mayors: We Want More Power To Tax. They also want a larger share of the state hotel tax revenues and immunity for lifeguards at state beaches. Civil Beat.

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Governor took 15 minutes to announce missile alert was false. The Hawaii National Guard’s top commander said Friday he told Gov. David Ige that a missile alert was a false alarm two minutes after it went out statewide. But the governor didn’t tell the public until 15 minutes later. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige was told last week’s missile alert was a false alarm just two minutes after the warning message was sent to cellphones across the state, the director of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency told lawmakers Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Knew 2 Minutes After Missile Alert That It Was False. But it took his office 15 minutes to announce the news in a Twitter post, legislators were told Friday. Civil Beat.

Legislature Conducts Hearing on False Missile Alert. Governor David Ige told lawmakers Friday that safeguards are in place and there will be consequences for the 38 minute delay to end the false alarm. Hawaii Public Radio.

State lawmakers put Hawaii emergency officials, including Governor David Ige, under the spotlight during an informational briefing Friday, held to review the circumstances surrounding the erroneous release of a statewide emergency alert on Saturday, January 13. Big Island Video News.

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Republicans Want Lower Taxes And Better Public Access To Legislature. Bills to expand public record laws and exempt food items from taxes are endorsed by the minority caucus. Civil Beat.

State Representative Andria Tupola confirms run for governor. KITV.

There’s an increasingly urgent need for more state-funded ambulance units across the state to deal with a surge in emergency calls, primarily by seniors and the homeless, emergency services chiefs told state lawmakers last week. Star-Advertiser.

State tracks bacteria at busy beaches but often cannot identify the source. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii’s plan for improving public education under the Every Student Succeeds Act was approved Friday by the federal government. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Education said it’s received federal approval of its plan to implement the Every Student Succeeds Act, the federal education law which replaces No Child Left Behind. Tribune-Herald.

Here’s What We Pay County Workers — Except For Cops. Our salary database has thousands of new entries, but a legal challenge is holding back Honolulu police officer information. Civil Beat.

Several thousand federal civilian employees in Hawaii will be furloughed today because of the government shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

What happens now? How Hawaii is affected by a federal government shutdown. KHON2.

2 Hawaii congresswomen decline pay for duration of government shutdown. Hawaii News Now.

Feds make more than $2M available to reduce fishing bycatch. Associated Press.

Dozens Of Hawaii’s Mentally Ill May Lose Their Homes. The state looks to stop subsidies to people who already have received them for much longer than the intended two years. Civil Beat.

A state-sponsored ferry service for Hawaii would be financially and commercially impractical, according to a new study conducted last year by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

"Our job is to be ready": USS Carl Vinson en route to Western Pacific. KITV.

Across the state, thousands turn out for women's marches, rallies. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City Councilman Ernie Martin wants Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell to convene “a false missile alert working group” to assess how the city Department of Emergency Management and other city agencies responded to the Jan. 13 alert issued by mistake by state emergency officials. Star-Advertiser.

Mismanagement Could Cost Honolulu Another $10 Million. The city is scrambling to figure out how to make use of empty buildings in Waipahu and Chinatown. Civil Beat.

Private sponsors sought for programs at city zoo. Star-Advertiser.

Auction begins for Ryan’s Grill Honolulu as it closes after 34 years in business. Oahu Auctions will sell kitchen equipment and restaurant decorations from Ryan’s Grill Honolulu, which will serve dinner for the last time on Saturday, after more than 34 years in business. Pacific Business News.

Porn law’s loophole helped Oahu man avoid charges, critics say. Star-Advertiser.

Kapolei parcel sails back on the market, but this time not for sale. An affiliate of the James Campbell Co. has listed 14 acres of commercial land in Kapolei, but the parcel sandwiched between Farrington Highway and the H-1 freeway is being offered under long-term ground leases rather, as well as for sale.  Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

General excise tax hike mulled as county drains fund balance. Mayor Harry Kim on Friday sent the County Council a bill to raise the general excise tax by one-half percent to balance next year’s budget, while telling a state legislative panel the county exhausted its fund balance to pay for this year. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim traveled to the State Capitol Friday, joining the state’s other county mayors for an informational briefing before the Senate Ways and Means Committee and House Finance Committee. Big Island Video News.

Crawford returns as Finance Department deputy. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has closed portions of the park to the public as a result of the federal government shutdown. Tribune-Herald.

EnVision Maunakea’s process coming to a close; about 100 people participate. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Three Lawsuits Filed on Maui Over Shoreline Access. Maui Now.

Mayor looking into perks given to affordable housing owner. An apartment building owner who received millions of dollars in benefits to create an affordable housing project in Lahaina is coming under county scrutiny in light of the owner’s plans to raise affordable rents to market rates in 2019. Maui News.

Low inventory, higher housing prices persist in Maui County. Year-end real estate sales remain hot. Maui News.

Federal Government Shutdown Results in Haleakala Sunrise Summit Closure. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Airlines reinstated daily nonstop service Friday between Portland, Ore., and Maui. Star-Advertiser.

East Maui drivers brace for closures due to highway repairs. Hawaii News Now.

A public presentation on a proposed renewable energy conversion and sludge processing project at the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility will be held Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

County leaders reflect on 2017 accomplishments. Garden Island.

Feral pig population holding steady. Garden Island.

One month without plastic. The average resident on Kauai produces around 1,300 pounds of waste per year, and county officials said that points to the potential impact of every individual’s choices. Garden Island.

Friday, October 27, 2017

Navy rescues Honolulu women after months lost at sea, homegrown pot tainted, audit says burning Honolulu recyclables cheaper than recycling them, vacation rentals irk neighbors, Kauai mayor wannabes line up, rail begins airport leg, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy U.S. Navy
Women lost at sea rescued, courtesy U.S. Navy
After five months adrift, two women are saved by the U.S. Navy. Two Honolulu women and their dogs survived powerful storms, shark attacks and bouts of hopelessness while drifting at sea for five months aboard a 50-foot sailboat that broke down during their sail from Hawaii to Tahiti. Star-Advertiser.

courtesy U.S. Navy
U.S. Navy
Two Honolulu women and their dogs have been rescued after being lost at sea for months while trying to sail from Hawaii to Tahiti. Associated Press.

Two Hawaii women and their dogs have been rescued after spending months lost at sea in the Pacific Ocean. The pair, Jennifer Appel and Tasha Fuiava, survived off of water purifiers and a year’s worth of dry food, like pasta and oatmeal. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Navy released a video of its recent rescue at sea. A pair of Hawaii women and their dogs were stuck on board their sailboat in the Pacific Ocean. KITV.

Growth in visitor numbers outpaces spending. Arrivals last month increased 5 percent year-over-year to 701,833 visitors, and spending rose to $1.2 billion — up nearly 2 percent from September 2016, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor spending increased 7.1 percent to a total of $12.56 billion through the third quarter of 2017 in Hawaii, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands spent a total of $12.5 billion in the first three quarters of 2017, an increase of 7.1 percent compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is expected to arrive today for a short visit on her first official trip to Hawaii on what is technically labeled a “transit.”  Star-Advertiser.

Vigilance required for public pensions to reach full funding. 9.4 percent of Hawaii residents are part of the state Employees’ Retirement System. Maui News.

Cannabis Curriculum a Grassroots Effort in Hawaii. The number of patients registered under Hawai’i’s medical cannabis program has grown by 54 percent since 2015. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most homegrown marijuana tainted, lab reports. Most of the homegrown pakalolo tested by Hawaii’s first medical marijuana laboratory is tainted with pesticides and other dangerous contaminants. Star-Advertiser.

Human remains stolen from burial caves in Hawaii more than a century ago are finally returning to their resting place. Hawaii News Now.

High Surf Warning issued as waves of 35 feet forecast. A High Surf Warning has been issued for north- and west-facing shores of Oahu, Niihau, Kauai and Molokai, and north-facing shores of Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines officials say starting service to Hawaii is now their primary focus, interisland flying is being seriously considered and they don’t plan on using red-eye flights from the mainland to the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air filled two key employment positions Thursday, even as its long-term fate remains up in the air in federal Bankruptcy Court. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Audit: Honolulu Could Save Millions By Burning Recyclables For Energy. Sorting and selling recyclables hauled away in blue bins no longer makes economic sense, the audit found. Civil Beat.

Auditor urges city to get some cash for its trash. Many of the recyclables collected in Honolulu residents’ blue bins could eventually wind up at the city’s HPOWER plant in Kapolei instead of overseas, based on the recommendations of a new city auditor’s report. Star-Advertiser.

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After hearing more than four hours of sometimes emotional testimony from supporters and detractors of vacation rentals, the City Council Zoning and Housing Committee on Thursday voted to advance four proposals aimed at addressing the complicated issue. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is once again trying to get control of the growing vacation rental industry and crack down on illegal units. Hawaii News Now.

A battle over vacation rentals and illegal bed-and-breakfasts is brewing before the city council. On Thursday, members of the Committee on Zoning and Housing took up four resolutions that addressed the issue. KHON2.

Operators, neighbors clash over plans to curb vacation rentals. The online booking platforms for vacation rentals have created issues in neighborhoods no one ever expected. KITV.

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First, it was a law that bans lying down on city sidewalks. Now a city councilman wants to take it a step further, by making it illegal for people to lie down at bus stops. KHON2.

HPD Corruption Case: Who Is Alison Lee Wong? The feds say Honolulu prosecutor Katherine Kealoha used the alias of “Alison Lee Wong” to help carry out alleged crimes. Civil Beat.

Years in the making: How prosecutors built their case against the Kealohas. It's the biggest abuse of power case in modern Hawaii history. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Prosecutor Peter Carlisle: Fed's Case Against the Kealohas Solid. Honolulu’s former police chief and his city deputy prosecutor wife pleaded not guilty to federal charges Friday. Hawaii Public Radio.

Rail work kicks off airport leg. The joint venture Shimmick, Traylor and Granite is being paid $875 million to build Phase 3 of the 20-mile Honolulu rail line. Hawaii News Now.

Rail pillars are going up for the airport section of Honolulu's Rail Transit Project. Contractors used heavy machinery to drill its first holes for the 5-plus mile stretch of that phase of the project, which runs from Aloha Stadium to Middle Street. KITV.

Star-Advertiser Employees Rally To Protest Layoffs. More than 30 newsroom staffers -- about a quarter of the staff -- have lost their jobs at Hawaii’s biggest newspaper in the past year amid ongoing contract negotiations. Civil Beat.

A restaurant in the Shirokiya Japan Village Walk at Ala Moana Center was shut down for interfering with a state Department of Health inspection to follow up on food safety violations. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health Sanitation Branch has posted a red “closed” placard at Mazesoba Ono-ya inside Ala Moana Center for refusing to cooperate during a follow-up health inspection to correct eight outstanding critical food safety violations. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Construction continues on the former Sports Authority storefront at Prince Kuhio Plaza, with new tenants — T.J. Maxx and Petco — expected to open early next year, according to the mall. Tribune-Herald.

Lava Inundation Zones Mapped On Mauna Loa. Mauna Loa is not erupting, but scientists with the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory are watching it closely. Big Island Video News.

Kua O Ka La students learning about ‘what’s happening in their ocean’ by participating in eDNA study. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Police Officer Arrested for Domestic Abuse. Maui police responded to a Kahului residence on Tuesday night after receiving a call for a domestic violence complaint involving a 26-year-old female and an off-duty Maui Police Department officer. Maui Now.

State pension system still considering golf course development. As questions circled around plans for the Kaanapali Golf Course, the executive director of the state Employees’ Retirement System, which owns the golf course, said it’s too early to tell how much the project will cost and whether it will prove beneficial for the agency and the community. Maui News.

Kauai


Kauai County Department of Parks and Recreation director announces run for mayor. Kauai’s Lenny Rapozo announced Thursday that he’ll be entering the race for county mayor. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige covered a lot of ground in his 40-minute talk Thursday morning at the Lihue Business Association. Garden Island.

State Rep. Andria Tupola, recently chosen as House Minority Leader, will be at Lihue United Church Parish 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Tupola is running for governor. Garden Island.

The Department of Water recently held a blessing ceremony to commence the Koloa Well 16 A and 16 B Site and Building Improvements Project in Koloa. Garden Island.

Friday, October 20, 2017

Turtle Bay to be sold, AG Chin could run for Congress, Kauai man gets one year for stabbing turtle, Honolulu rail price tag questioned, Hawaii unemployment close to all-time low, former HPD chief prepared for arrest, Maui moves to mail newspaper delivery, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
Turtle Bay Resort courtesy photo
Turtle Bay Resort looks likely to be sold for $350M. A giant real estate investment firm and former owner of major Hawaii hotels has made a deal to buy Turtle Bay Resort. As part of a preservation deal, the state in 2010 paid $45 million for 53 acres fronting Kawela Bay plus an easement prohibiting development on 568 acres that includes land below and around Turtle Bay’s golf courses. Star-Advertiser.

A New York-based real estate investment firm has struck a deal to buy the Turtle Bay Resort. According to a report by Real Estate Alert, investment firm Blackstone is paying $330 million for the hotel. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate is flirting with making state history. The seasonally adjusted number dipped to 2.5 percent in September and is now one-tenth of a percentage point away from its all-time low, according to U.S. Labor Department data that go back to 1976. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 2.5 percent in September, from 3 percent during the same month a year ago, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii has joined 11 other states and the District of Columbia to argue in federal appeals court that all states must be allowed to continue to impose their own customized restrictions on firearms. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Doug Chin Sure Sounds Like He Might Run For Congress. The AG’s dominance of the headlines may be scaring off potential candidates for outgoing Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s seat. Civil Beat.

The highest-ranking Republican elected official in Hawaii plans to run for governor in 2018. Rep. Andria Tupola, the minority leader in the state House of Representatives, said she will make a formal announcement next month. Civil Beat.

Can School Gardens Get Kids To Eat Their Vegetables? More than 80 percent of Hawaii schools have some kind of garden, part of a booming, nationwide farm-to-school movement. Civil Beat.

More than 40 percent of Hawaii children have experienced trauma including the death, divorce or incarceration of a parent, and violence, drug abuse or mental illness in the home, a federal study shows. Star-Advertiser.

How A UH Scientist Hopes To Improve Early Kidney Disease Detection. The research is particularly vital for Hawaii, where one in seven residents have chronic kidney disease. Civil Beat.

Island Air lost the use of two of its five planes, cut its flights by more than 40 percent and placed some employees on reserve with reduced pay prior to filing for bankruptcy protection this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines parent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: HA) posted a 27 percent decline in profit during the third quarter of 2017 compared to last year, while revenue increased 7.1 percent to $719.6 million, according to earnings released Thursday by the Honolulu-based company. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines achieved record revenue in the third quarter but saw its net income decline 27 percent after taking two charges totaling $50 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive about $1.2 million as part of a $120 million nationwide settlement with General Motors over allegations the Detroit-based carmaker hid safety issues related to faulty ignition switches in its vehicles. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A federal grand jury tasked with deciding whether criminal charges should be brought against retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, wife and Deputy City Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and other HPD officers, wound up two years of hearings Thursday, with U.S. attorneys mum about whether any indictments will be handed down. Star-Advertiser.

No Criminal Indictment Yet In Federal Police Corruption Probe. An attorney for the former Honolulu police chief and his prosecutor wife say the couple are prepared to be arrested by the FBI. Civil Beat.

After two years, the federal grand jury investigating public corruption in the Honolulu Police Department has finally wrapped up. Hawaii News Now.

Thursday is the last day for a federal grand jury that has been meeting for two years on a public corruption probe. KITV.

In its most recent report, the federal contractor overseeing Honolulu rail says it is “not confident” the project’s total construction price tag will remain at $8.2 billion.Star-Advertiser.

Ilikai Hotel workers belonging to Unite Here Local 5 walked off the job Thursday to protest high workloads, low wages and stagnant contract negotiations. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel workers at odds with management are picketing in front of the Ilikai Hotel and Luxury Suites in Waikiki. The workers walked off the job Thursday morning. KITV.

Monster homes are gobbling up communities — and it's all legal. Hawaii News Now.

Some streets in Waipahu may be getting a makeover as part of the city's effort to make them safer. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii notified students today that it has confirmed three cases of mumps on its Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's mumps outbreak hits 500 cases; 3 reported at UH. Hawaii News Now.

Students who only had 15 minutes to eat lunch are being given a little more time to eat. But parents say it’s still not enough. KHON2.

Animal advocates are moving out more than 90 dogs from an entrenched homeless camp under the airport viaduct that's set to swept next week. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu startup accelerator Elemental Excelerator has selected 12 startups to participate in next year’s cohort. Pacific Business News.

Reef Capital Ventures has received a $275,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, through its Economic Development Administration’s Regional Innovation Strategies program. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

It’s back to the drawing board in the search for a mass transit administrator, after Mayor Harry Kim decided the advertised salary isn’t high enough to attract the best candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is keeping its options open as it looks for new office space in Hilo. In addition to negotiating a lease for the former Safeway space at Prince Kuhio Plaza, the county also is seeing if it’s feasible to buy a building at 1055 Kinoole St., where the Office of Aging rents space. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation will extend four lanes on Highway 130 to Shower Drive over the next month as it restripes a 2-mile stretch of pavement. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County officials hope to heighten security with surveillance cameras at baseyards around the island in light of continued thefts. West Hawaii Today.

The Honomu Park banyan tree that fell Sunday will cost the county tens of thousands of dollars, Hawaii County’s managing director said. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council adopted a resolution Wednesday urging a peaceful solution to the conflict with North Korea. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Beginning Monday, November 13, home delivery to Maui News subscribers will be via the United States Postal Service. Maui News.

Kula woman is working to help mother on Puerto Rico. Maui group collecting goods and donations to send to people trapped on island. Maui News.

Water can be a contentious subject, especially in East Maui, where streams have long been diverted for sugar. Now, a battle to restore these streams is coming to an end. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

A 36-year-old Lihue man has been sentenced to a year in jail for attacking an endangered sea turtle on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Lance Kaaumoana, 36, was sentenced this week to serve one year in jail for attacking an endangered Pacific green sea turtle in April. Garden Island.

The initial investigation into the deaths of five pilot whales at Kalapaki Beach last Friday showed “no obvious cause of death.” Garden Island.

Wildlife officials are still unsure what caused seven pilot whales to beach themselves along a Kauai beach. Associated Press.

Preliminary necropsies for five whales that died in a mass stranding on Kauai last week showed "no obvious cause of death" for the animals. Hawaii News Now.

The Kauai Police Department’s Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team along with members of the state of Hawaii Sheriff Division conducted a special mission of the Kapaa area on Wednesday, which led to multiple arrests. Garden Island.

Kamalani Kai Playbridge will get sprucing up and a new name. Garden Island.