Kealoha trial delayed, City Council to move out of Honolulu Hale, Kamehameha Schools pays $65M to settle sex abuse lawsuit, Maui ballot initiative to raise unlicensed vacation rental fine to $20k, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Hale ©2018 All Hawaii News

Mayor Caldwell questions city council’s decision to relocate from Honolulu Hale to new million-dollar digs. The city council approved funding for one year’s rent at Alii Tower in downtown. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is trying to stop city council members from spending more than a million dollars to move from Honolulu Hale to a high-end downtown office building. Hawaii News Now.

Health concerns prompt city council's proposal to move out of Honolulu Hale. Council members tell us their portion of the building has been making employees sick. KHON2.

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Kealoha trial delayed after review of Katherine’s medical records. A federal judge Tuesday afternoon delayed the start of next month’s bank fraud trial of retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas’ Bank Fraud Trial Delayed Until 2019. The federal magistrate scolded the prosecutor for claiming Katherine Kealoha had a history of “feigning serious illness.” Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha’s trial delayed due to undisclosed medical condition. It’s the latest in a long list of medical claims Kealoha has used over the years. Hawaii News Now.

Judge grants Katherine Kealoha's request to delay trial over medical condition. KHON2.

A federal judge moved the start date of the bank fraud trial against former Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, and her husband, former Chief of Police in Honolulu Louis Kealoha to 2019 because of an undisclosed medical condition. KITV.

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Elected officials from Hawaii, California, and Alaska gathered at the White House for a 'State Leadership Day' event. KITV.

Kamehameha pays $65 million as part of settlement of sex abuse lawsuit. Kamehameha Schools has taken a major step to close one of the most tumultuous chapters in its long and storied history, paying $65 million to 32 plaintiffs who sued the institution for the sexual abuse they suffered decades ago at the hands of a psychiatric consultant. Star-Advertiser.

As early voting begins, Tupola, Ige point out distinct differences in opinions. The two are preparing for the General Election on Nov. 6. Hawaii News Now.

Gabbard Spending A Lot Of Campaign Cash, But Not All Of It In Hawaii. The congresswoman is hiring well-known national consultants despite having an easy path to re-election. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines' net up 31% after 'eventful' quarter. Two hurricanes in Hawaii, a typhoon in Japan, lingering impacts from the Kilauea eruption and rising fuel costs didn’t prevent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. from carrying the most passengers of any third quarter ever or achieving a solid financial performance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Holdings Inc., the parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, reported a 30.6 percent increase in earnings to $93.5 million in the third quarter of 2018, bolstered by a 6 percent increase in revenue to $759 million. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City is on track repaving roads islandwide, Caldwell says. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday announced that more than 2,000 lane miles of roads in Honolulu have been repaved over the last five years and that fixing the city’s roads and potholes remains a high priority. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell: City is exceeding road repaving goals, despite recent ranking. About 2,000 lane miles have been repaved at lower costs, the mayor says. Hawaii News Now.

The city says it's ahead of schedule when it comes to fixing the island's roads. So far, the city has repaved 2,000 lane miles and filled over 16,000 potholes. KHON2.

Mayor Caldwell claims the City has repaved more than 2,000 lane miles on Oahu. KITV.

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Honolulu Councilman blames mayor for stalling beach access plan. Efforts to secure a small lane for public access to a beach off Portlock Road have been stalled by Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration, and City Councilman Trevor Ozawa, who represents the area, is questioning whether election-year politics is to blame. Star-Advertiser.

Early Walk-In Voting started today across the state. Twenty people were waiting in line at Honolulu Hale when the polling station opened at 8am. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapolei Public Library closed until further notice after pipe bursts, floods first floor. Officials say an air conditioning cooling pipe burst, causing water to spill from the ceiling onto the building's first floor. KHON2.

Queen’s to expand services in West Oahu. The Queen’s Health Systems is planning an expansion that will double the amount of facilities at its West Oahu campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s largest wind farm has come up with a new proposal to offset, and hopefully reduce, killings of endangered Hawaiian hoary bats. Star-Advertiser.

Helicopter removed from Kaneohe Bay, NTSB investigating crash. The tour helicopter that went down in Kaneohe Bay Monday afternoon has been pulled from the water, though what exactly happened remains under investigation. KHON2.

The FAA and NTSB are continuing an investigation into what caused a tour helicopter to crash near the Kaneohe Bay sandbar on Monday afternoon, seriously injuring three people on board. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Visitor numbers down for the fourth month in a row. The impact of the Kilauea eruption on the Big Island’s tourism industry continues to be felt as official tourism data from September indicates a fourth consecutive month of declining hotel visits. Tribune-Herald.

East, West Hawaii Come Together On Water Quality. Big Island Video News.

Residents invited to get to know Innergex. A Canadian-based renewable energy company will host a community meeting next week in Waimea about its proposed solar project on Parker Ranch land. Tribune-Herald.

David De Luz Sr. remembered by friends, family. Prominent Big Island businessman David De Luz Sr. is being remembered by those who knew him as a role model and self-made entrepreneur who worked hard to achieve success. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Should Unlicensed Airbnbs On Maui Face A $20,000 Fine? Voters will decide whether to amend the county charter to crack down on the proliferation of vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

West Maui Taxpayers Association to Host 2018 Candidates Night. The WMTA Candidates Night, the only forum of its kind in West Maui, and will feature the candidates for State Senator District 06, State Representative District 10, Maui mayor and Maui County Councilmembers—all districts. Maui Now.

Paltin, Nava face off in general election. In what is arguably one of the most closely watched County Council races this election cycle, Tamara Paltin and Rick Nava hope to fill the West Maui residency seat soon to be vacated by Elle Cochran, who is running for mayor. Maui News.

Kihei Charter School Opens in Permanent Location. After 18-years, Kihei Charter School has finally found a permanent home at the top of Līpoa Parkway in Kihei within the Maui Research and Technology Park. Maui Now.

Kauai

County Council Candidate: Juno Apalla. When it comes to vision, Juno Apalla strives for efficiency. Garden Island.

DHHL boots CrossFit from building. Organizers of the free community gym in Anahola are getting their ducks in a row after being kicked out of their space in an old church because they didn’t have proper permits. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige ahead 21 percentage points in poll, Honolulu moves closer to property taxes for rail, Danner arrested at Kauai Native Hawaiian encampment, Maui rescinds $100k grant for council aide, no tax break for lava-impacted businesses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige, Tupola ©2018 All Hawaii News

Civil Beat Poll: Voters Want Ige To Stick Around As Hawaii’s Governor. Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola trails by 21 percentage points among likely Hawaii voters in the latest survey. Civil Beat.

Commission Doubles Fines For First-Time Campaign Spending Violators. New penalties were levied against 25 candidates and committees.Candidates who violate campaign finance laws will face stiffer penalties after a state commission voted to double some fines for first-time offenders Wednesday. Civil Beat.

State aquaculture sales in ’17 held steady at $76.4 million. Hawaii’s aquaculture industry needed fewer workers last year but maintained sales close to a 2014 peak, according to a recent federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City council takes one step closer to dipping into property taxes for rail. A proposal that allows the city to use property taxes to pay for the rail project moved forward today at city council and is one step closer to becoming reality. KHON2.

Council advances bill to raise $44M for rail from city bonds. A bill allowing $44 million in city money to be used to help pay for the $8 billion-plus rail project won preliminary approval from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Strange Intersection Of A Rail Deadline And City Council Politics. The incumbent has stalled council bills considered crucial for the project, while the challenger is a close ally of the mayor who leads the charge for rail. Civil Beat.

Class-action lawsuit alleges city negligence worsened East Honolulu flooding. A group of East Honolulu residents are taking the city to court, saying its negligence contributed to historic flooding in April that did millions of dollars in damages to Oahu homes. Hawaii News Now.

City of Honolulu sued over April floods. The City and County of Honolulu now faces a lawsuit stemming from April floods, that damaged hundreds of East Oahu homes. KITV.

State department head sues city over flood damage. The head of the state Public Housing Authority is suing the city. KHON2.

Commission gets tough on ‘monster homes’. Honolulu Planning Commission members unanimously endorsed a draft bill Wednesday that is tougher than what the city Department of Planning and Permitting proposed. Star-Advertiser.

Contractors complain city’s permitting delays are forcing workforce lay-offs. Permitting department pledges to find ways to improve. Hawaii News Now.

Why Are City Lawmakers Involved In This Lobbyist’s Backyard Tiff? Alicia Maluafiti’s dog kennels are upsetting her Ewa Beach neighbors. Now City Council Chair Ernie Martin has introduced a bill that would legalize them. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council candidate Tommy Waters claims smear campaign against him and supporters. Those who support former representative Waters say they are being targeted by people who oppose their candidate. KITV.

Greenpeace’s historic ship in Honolulu after studying Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Officials will also host tours to highlight the threat of plastic pollution. Hawaii News Now.

Wife, daughter of HPD lieutenant perish in Kaimuki fire. Honolulu Police Lt. Nathan Wharton, the husband and father of the victims, was not home at the time of the fire. Star-Advertiser.

Man challenges conviction for killing friend, claims Hawaiian sovereignty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council rejects tax relief for Pahoa, Volcano. Puna Councilwoman Eileen O’Hara was unable to muster support Wednesday for a resolution seeking to provide tax relief for commercial properties in Pahoa and Volcano. Tribune-Herald.

DWS hopeful Honokohau deep well to return to service by end of October. North Kona has been without four of its 14 water sources for months, but the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply believes it will revise that ratio in the coming days. West Hawaii Today.

A pedestrian trail that meanders from Kohala Lighthouse to recently acquired county land at Kapanaia Road now belongs to the public, with the County Council on Wednesday unanimously accepting an easement as part of a 2002 settlement agreement with a developer. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo doctor, four of his employees arrested for alleged drug trafficking. Dr. Ernest Bade was apprehended at his clinic at 260 Osorio Lane in Hilo by U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency officers and Hawaii County deputies Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council Planning Committee on Tuesday advanced a bill to regulate the Big Island’s short-term vacation rentals. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County officials terminated a $100,000 grant awarded to an executive assistant of Council Member Alika Atay for events celebrating Queen Kaahumanu’s 250th birthday and now will take over reviews and payments of $46,000 in outstanding receipts owed to vendors. Maui News.

The Maui County Planning Department will hold two more meetings—Oct. 18 and Oct. 23, 2018—on its proposed revisions to the Maui Planning Commission’s rules on Special Management Area (SMA) permits and the shoreline area. Maui Now.

The Maui County Department of Public Works will hold a community meeting Oct. 30, 2018, to discuss shoreline erosion along Lower Honoapiilani Road at Kaopala Bay in Kahana. Maui Now.

The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua in Maui has sold for almost $1 million a room — one of the state’s highest hotel sales on a per-room basis ever. Star-Advertiser.

Sale of Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui to Blackstone closes. Pacific Business News.

Rock icon Steven Tyler to perform for one night only on Maui. The lead singer of Aerosmith will play on Dec. 27. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Prominent Native Hawaiian activist Robin Danner and her son were arrested Wednesday during a confrontation with state Department of Hawaiian Home Land enforcement officers and officers of the Kauai Police Department over a disputed campsite near Anahola Beach Park. Garden Island.

The state Department of Health canceled a brown water advisory Monday, the first of several that had been in effect since Aug. 31, just days after remnants of Hurricane Lane drenched the islands. Garden Island.

More than half oppose education property tax in poll, Ige and Tupola debate, ballots in the mail, hotel strikers cited for trespassing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii 2018 general election ballot © 2018 All Hawaii News

Civil Beat Poll: Hawaii Voters Oppose ConAm On Property Taxes. While there is sentiment to help schools and teachers, voters appear worried about how the ballot question is constructed. Asked how they would vote on the so-called “ConAm” question, 53 percent said they would oppose it compared to just 35 percent who would vote in favor. Civil Beat.

Parents will join teachers at dozens of public schools across the state on Tuesday morning to rally in support of a proposed constitutional amendment regarding education. The proposed constitutional amendment, set to go before voters on Nov. 6, reads: “Shall the legislature be authorized to establish, as provided by law, a surcharge on investment real property to be used to support public education?” Hawaii News Now.

Governor David Ige and state Representative Andria Tupola square off in first televised debate. KHON2.

Ige, Tupola spar in debate that includes running mates. Andria Tupola criticized Democratic Gov. David Ige for not doing enough to increase affordable housing, cool classrooms, make the state’s roads safer, reduce the waiting list for Hawaiian homelands and reduce homelessness, during a one-hour gubernatorial debate Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Debate: Lieutenant governor candidates closing statements. KHON2.

Voting in the 2018 general election has begun now that the county clerks on three islands sent out tens of thousands of absentee mail-in ballots during the past week. Star-Advertiser.

Hirono Rakes In The Campaign Cash Following Kavanaugh Hearing. While the Hawaii senator doesn’t face much of a challenge in November, her campaign is raising and spending money like she does. Civil Beat.

CD-1: Democrat Ed Case on the Campaign Trail. Two veteran politicians are vying for the Congressional District One seat to represent urban Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Strike leaves some guests grumbling. So far, there’s no end in sight for the strike, which began Oct. 8 when negotiations between Unite Here Local 5 and Kyo-ya Hotels &Resorts, which owns the Marriott-managed Sheraton Waikiki, The Royal Hawaiian, Westin Moana Surfrider, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani and Sheraton Maui, reached an impasse. Star-Advertiser.

No Talks Scheduled Yet in Hotel Strike. Here in Hawaii, 2,700 workers are on the picket lines outside five hotels managed by Marriott and owned by Kyo-Ya. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sears has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection Monday and announced 142 stores across the country are closing, however none of the six stores in Hawaii are on that list. KITV.

While Sears’ bankruptcy filing won’t have an immediate effect on its four Hawaii stores, the potential closing of the four mall anchors would open up nearly 500,000 square feet of vacancy and have a dramatic effect on retail vacancy rates in parts of Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen died Oct. 15 in Seattle from complications of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He was 65 years old. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

City Mistakenly OK’d Permit For Site With Native Hawaiian Remains. A residential development is on hold while a developer devises a plan for the iwi — 12 years after the state warned the city of their possible presence. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit accuses Head Start operator of inflating enrollment with ‘ghost children’. The whistleblower alleges Head Start pre-K program defrauded the federal government of over $100M. Hawaii News Now.

Construction is set to start on a condominium tower in Kakaako that will begin to fill in the middle of the Ward Village community planned largely on old retail and warehouse property. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaiian blessing ceremony held today in Kakaako for the groundbreaking of Ward Village's newest high-rise tower, Aalii. KITV.

Giant pothole blamed for sidelining 9 vehicles in Zipper lane. The state Transportation Department said Freeway Service Patrol crews helped nine drivers with tire damage after running over the pothole. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Charter Commission eyes PONC fund: Committee recommends cutting back property taxes going to land preservation. West Hawaii Today.

After widespread testimony against proposed administrative rules for Mauna Kea, changes are being considered by the University of Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

After nearly a decade in the making, new adult day center in Hilo is dedicated. The long-awaited Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Adult Day Center was dedicated Monday, nearly a decade after plans for such a facility were first discussed. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Strikers at Sheraton Maui Issued Trespass Citations. The three employees were passing out leaflets to guests in the hotel’s porte corchere, informing them of the strike which impacts their hotel and four other hotels in Hawaii. Maui Now.

Hotel employee on strike detained for trespassing. Last week, three people on strike over contract negotiations wanted to hand out fliers to guests staying at the Sheraton Maui hotel in Lahaina. They were detained for trespassing. KITV.

Maalaea condo groups working on wastewater alternatives. Health Department citations issued for three condominium complexes. Maui News.

Maui Police: 5 Unclaimed Remains at Forensic Facility. Department officials said they hope to get in touch with family members of the deceased. Maui Now.

Maui woman killed while sunbathing at popular beach park. A woman was killed while sunbathing early Sunday evening at Hookipa Beach Park on Maui's north shore. KHON2.

Hookipa Sunbather Dies After Being Run Over by Truck. Maui Now.

Kauai

Gov. David Ige signed a fourth supplementary proclamation extending the emergency relief period for the Kauai floods that occurred in April 2018. Garden Island.

A Kauai hula dancer has filed a lawsuit against a restaurant and hotel, stating she was retaliated against on the basis of her sex and for reporting sexual harassment and the failure to protect her from sexual harassment. Garden Island

$200M for Ala Wai improvements, Abercrombie yes, Hanabusa no on constitutional convention, new landfill for Kauai, renewable energy takes a hit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai ©2018 All Hawaii News

Senate OKs over $200M for canal improvements. The U.S. Senate voted 99- 1 to pass legislation Wednesday that includes more than $212 million in federal funding to improve the Ala Wai Canal. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii could receive $200 million to improve Ala Wai Canal. The Ala Wai canal might get a major facelift -- $212 million worth. KITV.

Abercrombie, Hanabusa disagree on constitutional convention. Hawaii voters will decide in November’s general election whether to hold a convention to overhaul Hawaii’s current state constitution. Hawaii News Now.

Andria Tupola: ‘I’m Going To Take Over This Government’. The energetic Republican candidate for Hawaii governor won’t be abandoning the party or coming home crying anytime soon. Civil Beat.

1st Congressional Dist. nominees grilled, one relates to Kavanaugh claims. KITV.

Gun control advocates to lead key committees. State Sen. Karl Rhoads is expected to take over as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and state Rep. Chris Lee is expected to become head of the House Judiciary Committee in a leadership shuffle at the Legislature that could shape the debate on gun control in Hawaii in the years ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Pal Of Ige Or Not, Keith Hiraoka Is A Good Choice For Appeals Court. Some feel the governor was playing politics when he nominated his former campaign manager to a judgeship for the second time. Civil Beat.

No talks scheduled in hotel strike. Marriott hotel workers in Hawaii continued pounding drums and hollering chants as they entered day three of 24/7 picketing without an offer of new bargaining dates from Kyo-ya Hotels &Resorts. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Department’s Professional Standards detectives arrested an HPD lieutenant today for alleged tax violations.  Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu police lieutenant was arrested charged with multiple tax violations. Eric Yiu was charged on Oct. 8, 2018 with violating six counts of filing false and fraudulent tax returns for tax years 2011-2016. KHON2.

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin announced this week that an investigative team has been formed to look into an allegation that Councilman Trevor Ozawa verbally harassed another Councilman’s aide for supporting his political rival. Star-Advertiser.

City may have to repay $8M, HUD warns. A local U.S. housing official warned Mayor Kirk Caldwell Wednesday that the city could be forced to repay nearly $8 million for failing to find commercial tenants for the Chinatown Gateway Plaza building on Nuuanu and Hotel streets. Star-Advertiser.

Do the right thing’: Discovery of more remains at construction site spurs emotional testimony. Bone fragments have been temporarily reburied in plastic boxes. An archaeologist hired by Kawaiahao Church says 36 additional human remains have been found at the construction site for its multi-purpose center. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Public High Schools Redesigned for Innovation Future. The 4th annual Future Focus Conference on technologies and innovation is underway in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

New and improved ZipMobile set to launch on Zipper Lane duties next month. Gov. David Ige got behind the wheel of a brand new bright- yellow $1.95 million ZipMobile on Wednesday and immediately said he wanted to drive it. Star-Advertiser.

Community Cure: Waimanalo's Hawaiian Medicine Garden. Community medicine gardens may be just what the doctor ordered. Hawaii Public Radio.

How the Marriott strike has affected businesses in Waikiki properties. Disgruntled hotel guests and room cancellations may take a toll on the five Marriott properties that have workers on strike, as well as on the businesses that lease out spaces in these hotels. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A powerful trio: Energy officials update plans at chamber function. Hawaii Island’s renewable energy portfolio took a hit from a series of natural disasters this year, losing both geothermal and hydroelectric power sources. West Hawaii Today.

Helicopter noise panel to meet. A new committee that aims to address noise created by tour helicopters will meet for the first time today. Tribune-Herald.

Neil Gyotoku, Hawaii County’s administrator of the Office of Housing and Community Development, has rescinded his resignation in a letter to Mayor Harry Kim.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County is seeking applicants to fill vacancies on various boards and commissions. Members of most of these panels serve for staggered terms of five years on a voluntary basis. Tribune-Herald.

Puna health clinic teams up with Ka'u Hospital. Puna Community Medical Center in Pahoa became a division of Ka'u Hospital earlier this month in an effort to improve medical services in the area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

FEMA Public Assistance Applicants Invited to Maui Briefing. The Maui briefing will take place on Monday, Oct. 15, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Maui County Emergency Operations Center in the basement level of the County Building. Maui Now.

2 more large-scale solar projects for Maui in contract talks. Maui News.

Median sales prices for single-family homes and condominiums jumped in double-digit increases in September — up 16 percent to $754,248 for homes and up 18.2 percent to $501,000 for condos — both compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released last week by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Maui condo market is hot in 2018, as YTD sales, prices rise by double digits. Maui is having a banner year for condominium sales so far in 2018, with year-to-date sales rising by more than 20 percent and the median price increasing by more than 10 percent through the first three quarters, compared to the same time period last year. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Mayor accepts Final EIS for new landfill. Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Wednesday accepted the County of Kauai Department of Public Works Final Environmental Impact Statement for the new municipal solid waste landfill to be located on Maalo Road in Lihue. Garden Island.

A Rising Tide Of Abandoned Cars On The Garden Isle. Rusting hulks have become a common sight at otherwise scenic beach parks. The county is on pace to remove 1,300 vehicles this year. Star-Advertiser.

Gubernatorial debate a go, Marriott workers strike, first humpback of season spotted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige and GOP challenger Andria Tupola ©2018 All Hawaii News

Tupola agrees to include lieutenant governor candidates in debate. Democratic Gov. David Ige and his Republican challenger, Rep. Andria Tupola, will participate in a live televised debate hosted by KHON at 9 p.m. Oct. 15 that will include their lieutenant governor running mates. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige is offering a second plum judicial appointment to his high school friend and former campaign manager Keith K. Hiraoka, nominating Hiraoka to one of six seats on the state Intermediate Court of Appeals. Star-Advertiser.

Marriott workers strike for higher wages. In Hawaii’s largest hotel strike in nearly 30 years, 2,700 Unite Here Local 5 hotel workers from five Marriott-operated hotels in Waikiki and on Maui walked off the job Monday, demanding better wages and job security. Star-Advertiser.

2,700 Workers Strike At Popular Waikiki Hotels. The work stoppage comes despite management agreement to subsidize worker housing. Civil Beat.

2,700 Marriott Hotel workers went on strike this morning in Waikiki and Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Thousands of Marriott Hotel workers on strike across Maui and Oahu. KHON2.

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Hawaii Immigrants Seek Legal Help to Secure U.S. Citizenship. More than 50,000 immigrants in Hawaii are eligible to become American citizens but have not yet applied. Hawaii Public Radio.


The Hawaii Department of Health received a $3.9 million Health Resources and Services Administration grant over a two-year period to continue its proactive, voluntary, preventive home visiting program. Garden Island.

The 17th annual "Native Hawaiian Convention" kicked off Monday. The theme this year was Ke'au Hawaii or "Year of the Hawaiian." KITV.

Oahu

Convention Center seeking more cash for maintenance. The Hawaii Convention Center, which opened in 1988, has approximately $53 million worth of repairs to complete by 2024 and will likely need an appropriation this year from the state Legislature to help with the fixes, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmaker: City moving too slowly on project that would help mentally ill on the streets. One day after an officer-involved shooting that left a homeless man dead, state Sen. Josh Green criticized the city for moving too slowly on a project that would help the mentally ill living on the streets. Hawaii News Now.

The latest fatal shooting by a Honolulu Police officer is igniting a renewed call to do more to get help for homeless people who may be mentally ill. KHON2.

Federal judge awards former OCCC inmate $30K for 2015 beating. A federal judge has awarded a former Oahu Community Correctional Center inmate $30,000 for a December 2015 beating by an adult corrections officer. Hawaii News Now.

Are We Ready? Or Not? Civil Beat explores how vulnerable Hawaii’s most populous island is if a hurricane hits — and what’s being done to make us more prepared. A 7-Part Special Report. Civil Beat.

How The Ala Wai Canal Puts Honolulu’s Most Valuable Real Estate At Risk. Congress has authorized $345 million to strengthen the aging canal to protect against flooding in Waikiki and nearby neighborhoods. Civil Beat.

If The Big One Hits, Honolulu Harbor Is A Fragile Lifeline. The isolated islands would rapidly burn through food and supplies should the port close. Plan B is to bring limited goods through Pearl Harbor. Civil Beat.

Most Of Oahu’s Shelters Are A Long Way From Hurricane Ready. The state is assessing the conditions of shelters and retrofitting some, but the work is expensive and slow. Civil Beat.

Monkeypod in Moiliili honors Japanese immigrants. City officials held a dedication ceremony Tuesday morning for a monkeypod tree that was planted in place of a banyan removed at Moiliili Triangle two months ago. Star-Advertiser.

A dedication ceremony was held Monday at Moiliili Triangle for a newly planted monkeypod tree. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Leilani residents mull how to control entry into lava-ravaged area. A plan to erect a permanent gate controlling access to Leilani Estates threatens to divide subdivision residents both figuratively and literally. Tribune-Herald.

Waikoloa Highlands development to face Land Use Commission. A 731-acre project that’s languished for a decade is at risk of being reverted to an agricultural land reclassification. West Hawaii Today.

UH-Hilo equine class pairs students with lava-displaced animals. Tribune-Herald.

Ironman week is upon us. Approximately 2,500 athletes ready to take on the Ironman World Championship joined by their family, friends and crew are piling into Kailua-Kona for the event’s 40th installment that gets underway Saturday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Public access to Maunakea lands will be closed for two days this month while the Department of Land and Natural Resources conducts animal-control activities. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Pacific Whale Foundation on Maui said it spotted its first humpback whale of the season Monday morning. Star-Advertiser.

The Pacific Whale Foundation’s Ocean Explorer vessel reported spotting its first whale sighting of the season with assistance from Maui Diamond this morning, Oct. 8, 2018 at 8:08 a.m. Maui Now.

325 Sheraton Maui Hotel Workers on Strike. More than 2,700 Hawaii hotel workers are on strike in five hotels operated by Marriott and owned by Kyo-ya, including the Sheraton Maui in Kaanapali. Maui Now.

Prosecutors reach plea deal with Maui minister in child sex assault case. Hawaii News Now.

A new guided tour in Makawao town is taking a stroll through history. Trial walkabout tours set for the first Sunday of the month through December. Maui News.

Maui home, condo prices soared in September. Real estate prices surged on Maui in September but sales for single-family homes and condominiums were lower than the same time a year ago due to shrinking inventory. Star-Advertiser.

The median price of a single-family home on Maui jumped 16 percent in September, compared to a year ago, and the median price of a condominium jumped 18 percent, compared to September 2017, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Blackstone buying Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua on Maui. Blackstone Group, which paid more than $1 billion at the beginning of 2018 to buy the Grand Wailea resort, is continuing its Hawaii buying spree this year with the acquisition of The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Ready to be counted. Today is the last day to register to vote in the general election. The county’s drive-thru voter registration booth will be in the parking lot behind the Election’s Division office. Garden Island.

The County of Kauai Planning Department was recognized last week for professional excellence in planning by two professional societies regarding its work with the Kauai General Plan Update (2018) and the South Kauai Community Plan (2015). Garden Island.

Sales of 8 condo units help push Kauai median price up 80% in September. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Legislature less popular than Trump, Waikiki's King's Village coming down, federal funds coming for disaster relief, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pa'u riders on parade ©2018 All Hawaii News

In Hawaii, People Like Trump Better Than They Like The Legislature. A new survey shows how island residents feel about their elected officials, major institutions and a broad range of issues, from housing to the environment. Civil Beat.

Democratic Gov. David Ige has accepted an invitation from KHON-TV to debate his opponent, Republican nominee and state Rep. Andria Tupola, in the race for governor but Tupola is still mulling whether to participate. Star-Advertiser.

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Counties Ask Supreme Court To Invalidate Ballot Measure For School Funds. They seek a ruling before the Nov. 6 vote on a constitutional amendment that would authorize the state to collect property taxes. Civil Beat.

Hawaii counties ask Supreme Court to invalidate prop tax ballot question. Hawaii’s four counties on Wednesday filed a petition for extraordinary writ with the state Supreme Court, asking justices to invalidate a question on the November ballot for a proposed constitutional amendment allowing the Legislature to place a “surcharge” on investment real estate to support public schools. Pacific Business News.

Counties take property tax ballot question to state Supreme Court. It's an issue on the November ballot that's drawing heated argument from all sides. KHON2.

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Here’s How Mazie Hirono Shaped Her ‘Badass’ Image In Washington. Hawaii’s junior senator is gaining national prominence for her outspoken criticism of Trump and Brett Kavanaugh. Civil Beat.

Federal funds expected soon to help with disaster relief. State and county officials seeking recovery funding for recent disasters got some welcome news Wednesday when the U.S. House of Representatives green-lighted $1.7 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. House approved new legislation Wednesday that would send $1.7 billion to communities plagued by natural disasters nationwide. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii island cumulatively have received more than $120 million in federal aid for disasters since April and more money is on the way, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Lane might not have materialized into the menacing monster storm that was forecast, but all the bluster surrounding it did keep some tourists away. In August, Hawaii hotels reported that occupancy fell nearly 3 percentage points to just over 78 percent, according to a Hawaii Hotel Performance Report recently released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive about $700,000 as part of a $148 million nationwide settlement with California ride-sharing service Uber Technologies Inc. due to the ride-hailing company’s delay in reporting hackers had accessed the private information of some 600,000 drivers. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has launched a $500,000 pilot grants program that will provide smaller, one-year grant awards for projects that benefit the Native Hawaiian community and align with the agency’s broad strategic priority areas. Maui Now.

The colorful pa'u riders are one of the most unique features of any parade here in the Hawaiian Islands. Draped in yards of brightly colored fabric and decked in lei, pa'u riders continue an old equestrian tradition. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s trade export program got a $450,000 boost from the U.S. Small Business Administration on Tuesday to continue its support of companies looking to start or grow their exports. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Incoming Waikiki highrise forces closure of landmark, driving out small businesses. Hilton Grand Vacations, a global timeshare company, announced its development plans Wednesday for a 1.05-acre site that currently envelops King’s Village, Hale Waikiki Apartments and Prince Edwards Apartments. Hawaii News Now.

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. announced today that it has purchased a 1.05-acre site that currently includes King’s Village in Waikiki from BSC KVSC, LLC (“BSC”), with plans to develop a 32-story tower. Star-Advertiser.

The purchase of the King’s Village site in Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations is expected to reinvigorate plans for a new 32-story tower that have been in limbo since at least 2014. Star-Advertiser.

Hilton plans to open a new tower in Waikiki. KHON2.

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Getting residents on board with the new airport rail stop design. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's aiming to get more people on board to support the design for their rail stations. KITV.

‘Chaos At Kamalani’: Why It’s So Hard To Run A Charter School. An innovative new charter school continues to struggle with parent communication and teacher turnover in its second year. Civil Beat.

Kahauiki Village gets a large donation to benefit homeless relief efforts. The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation donated $3 million to the organization responsible for Kahauiki Village, a successful collection of transitional homes for families located near Sand Island. Hawaii News Now.

The United States Office of Naval Research awarded the University of Hawaii West Oahu a $638,100 grant to create a program to support veterans interested in careers and education involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Proposed rules for managing Maunakea lands draw fierce criticism. More than 30 people submitted verbal testimony about the proposed rules, which would prohibit certain activities and items on Maunakea land, require permits for certain other activities on the land and would allow an agent of UH — referred to as “the president’s designee” — to control access to the mountain at his or her discretion. Tribune-Herald.

Council Member Ruggles Puts Queen’s Hospital on Notice. Council member Jen Ruggles released a letter she sent notifying Queen’s Health Systems that it appears they may be violating the rights of protected persons. Big Island Now.

Residents Say Dairy Is Still Polluting Their Small Town. Court filings say discharges of wastewater are continuing even though the company is under an order to stop it. Civil Beat.

Maui

Panel rejects special use permit for Paia Inn. Appeal likely to 2nd Circuit Court. The Maui Planning Commission voted 5-1 Tuesday to reject a hearings officer’s recommendation to grant Paia business owner Michael Baskin a special use permit. Maui News.

The Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday voted 5-1 to reject recommendations from a hearings officer in a report regarding the Paia Inn’s remanded application for a special use permit. Maui Now.

Financing has been obtained for the 118-unit Kaiwahine Village affordable housing project in north Kihei, according to an announcement. Maui News.

Inoperable doors, dormitory stairways in disrepair and a fire alarm system that has not been operational for years at Maui Community Correctional Center have led to $37,490 in fines — the second time this summer that the Maui jail has been cited. Maui News.

Janus lawyer: Too early to tell how unions will be affected by ruling. Attorney appears at Grassroot Institute event at Maui Country Club. Maui News.

Kauai

The state of Hawaii’s pension plan is underfunded, and if the problem isn’t resolved the crisis could get worse. That’s what Joseph Kent, vice president of research at the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, told the Kauai County Council Wednesday as he presented a report he authored about the issue. Garden Island.

Sides split on tree removal. Red paint on ironwood trees along Kauai’s Eastside Waipouli coastline is marking the way for a new beach area and eventual coastal path for the up-and-coming Coconut Beach Resort. Garden Island.

$13.5M Kilauea estate for sale. A favorite getaway for celebrities and their families for the last decade, the Kilauea home of the late architect Elliott Rosenblum and his partner, pediatrician Dr. Mark Nesselson, is on the market for $13.5 million with Heather Ford of Elite Pacific Properties. Garden Island.

Ige and Tupola agree to debate, Gabbard presidential run rumors persist, circus animal ban mulled, Kauai voters to consider term limits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

David Ige, Andria Tupola ©2018 All Hawaii News

Democratic Gov. David Ige and Republican state Rep. Andria Tupola have agreed to a televised debate shortly before the general election, but Tupola wants Ige to commit to a “six-island debate.” Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard encouraged to run for president in 2020. In the words of one longtime Hawaii political observer, Gabbard has been leaving a “trail of breadcrumbs” that suggests she is laying the groundwork to seek higher office, and at least some of her supporters hope that will be the presidency in 2020. Star-Advertiser

This Ballot Measure Is Sparking Intense Debate Over Hawaii’s Schools. The proposed constitutional amendment is already one of the most contentious issues to go before voters in the 2018 election. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Much to discuss in Constitutional Convention — if voters can muster hope and engagement. Star-Advertiser.

State board to re-consider circus animal ban. A ban on bringing circus animals into the state heads to the Hawaii Board of Agriculture again. KITV.

Effort to curb opioids alarms pain patients. The limits on prescription drugs are resulting in situations where many say their pain is not being controlled. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New Report Reveals Hawaii’s Not-So-Booming Economy. A declining population and weak increases in personal income have helped keep a lid on inflation in Honolulu, economists say. Civil Beat.

North Shore homes are in danger from erosion and homeowners say the state isn’t doing enough to help. Star-Advertiser.

Armed Drug Suspect Is Fourth Person Fatally Shot By HPD Since June. Officers were serving a search warrant inside a residential high-rise apartment when the shooting occurred. Civil Beat.

Manoa Falls Trail to remain closed after dangerous rock slide. Friday afternoon, a 100-foot rock slide happened in the upper pool area sending debris and boulders crashing down to the Aikuilama Trail as well as the lower pool area of the main Manoa Falls Trail. Hawaii News Now.

4 foreign tourists cited for ignoring Manoa Falls Trail closure. The Department of Land and Natural Resources said four men were cited Sunday for allegedly attempting to enter the Manoa Falls Trail, which is currently closed due to hazardous conditions from a large landslide late last week. Hawaii News Now.

Approximately 614,400 gallons of raw sewage overflowed in Waipio after a 48-inch force main broke Saturday night. Star-Advertiser.

More than $65,000 raised in weekend fundraisers for Kapiolani Medical Center. The Ko Olina Children's Festival took place Saturday to benefit the Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

After 134 days of closure, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopened its gates to the public Saturday, with a flood of visitors and residents alike eager to see a park reborn. Tribune-Herald.

On Saturday morning, the day of the highly anticipated reopening of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the National Park Service gave a media briefing, Public Affairs Specialist Jessica Ferracane spoke to media outside the Kilauea Visitor Center. Big Island Video News.

You Need To Be Tough To Explore These New Volcanic Beaches. Kilauea volcano created a dramatic new landscape including black-sand beaches. But “it’s a rough walk” to get there. Civil Beat.

Judge dismisses suit against Hu Honua, county. A judge granted Hu Honua Bioenergy’s request for a summary judgment in a civil suit that sought to halt construction of the 30-megawatt biomass power plant in Pepeekeo until an environmental review is completed. Tribune-Herald.

Double-decker buses to hit the road. Hawaii County will soon have not one, but two, double-decker buses running between Hilo and South Kohala, County Council members learned last week. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health has notified the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation of possible water violations in their water system, a company spokesperson said Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Lanric Hyland dies at 79: Ethics advocate pushed for housing rights, government accountability. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Finding farming matches for old cane fields not so simple. A&B official says scale, location, water among obstacles. Maui News.

Na Puuwai sets new course for Lanai senior care. New partner Johns Hopkins School of Nursing takes over after Arcadia ends its collaboration. Maui News.

Kauai

Residents mull term limits for councilmembers. When Kauai voters head to the polls in November, they’ll be deciding on a charter amendment that could end term limits for members of the County Council. Garden Island.

The public is invited to join Community Coalition Kauai on Monday for a mock County Council meeting as a way to get to know what the County Council candidates think about growth management and future land use for Kauai. Garden Island.

Kapaa portable toilets haven’t been cleaned for 3 weeks. Garden Island.

Rail work approaches Ala Moana, Katherine Kealoha resigns as deputy prosecutor, ethics complaint filed against Caldwell, Japan Airlines' Kona stop successful, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Aerial view of construction near the North Nimitz Highway to H1 Interstate merge, April 2018. PC: Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit

Rail construction begins between Middle Street and Ala Moana Center. Rail disruptions will be moving deeper into the city as crews start a four-year, $400-million project to relocate utility lines in the city center section. Hawaii News Now.

Middle Street-to-Ala Moana phase of rail project moving ahead. The roughly 100 people attending tonight’s Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation meeting heard the message loud and clear from rail officials and their contractors: “We’re coming.” Star-Advertiser.

Teachers’ proposal would require hefty hike in property taxes. The union representing Hawaii’s public school teachers is arguing that a state tax on second homes valued at more than $1 million could bring in $200 million to $400 million in new revenue for public schools that could be used to raise teacher salaries, enhance classrooms, support special education and maybe even fund public preschools. Star-Advertiser.

Innovative New Program Plugs Some Holes In Mental Health Care System. A new network of providers and social workers is teaming up to get mental health patients the treatment they need. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Interagency Council on Homelessness conducted its quarterly meeting today and provided updated plans. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state is warning consumers of a social media scheme in which the scammers are posing as Stephen Levins, executive director of the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Katherine Kealoha Resigns From Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office. She and her husband, former Police Chief Louis Kealoha, face their first trial on bank fraud charges in November. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha resigns as deputy prosecutor. She and her husband, former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, are fighting federal charges in what could become one of the biggest public corruption trials in state history. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-police chief's deputy prosecutor wife resigns as corruption trial nears. Hawaii News Now.

Katherine Kealoha resigned as deputy prosecutor with the City and County of Honolulu Monday. KHON2.

Katherine Kealoha resigns as Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor. KITV.

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Resident files complaint against mayor over education tax lobbying. A Makakilo resident filed a complaint with the city Ethics Commission alleging that Mayor Kirk Caldwell overstepped his authority by asking chairmen of the city’s 33 neighborhood boards to put discussion on a controversial constitutional amendment on their agendas, offering his opposition on the issue and then suggesting that they invite a political action committee to speak on it. Star-Advertiser.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii said a recent federal court decision could spell trouble for two bills before the Honolulu City Council that make it illegal to obstruct or “lodge” on sidewalks and other public property, as well as existing ordinances that target the homeless. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii high school students tapped to fill medical assistant shortage. Hawaii Pacific Health has teamed up with Kapiolani Community College and five public high schools to launch an innovative program to train students as medical assistants during their senior year. Star-Advertiser.

The number of luxury homes on Oahu selling for $1.5 million and above rose 15 percent last month compared to the same month last year, although the median price of those homes declined by 8 percent, according to an analysis by Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

In its first year of service between Tokyo and Kailua-Kona, Japan Airlines’ daily flights were responsible for injecting $73.49 million in visitor spending into the Big Island, generating $8.58 million in state tax revenue, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Salary Commission still irked at charter amendment oversight. How involved should the public be in determining government salaries? West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Salary Commission met in the Hilo Council Chambers on Monday to consider proposals for adjustments to future salaries of county executives and elected officials. Big Island Video News.

Closing of Pahoa lava shelter a bittersweet moment for volunteers, staff. Tribune-Herald.

Shelter that housed hundreds of eruption evacuees closes after four months. KHON2.

The process of reopening Highway 137 to Pohoiki began Monday after county officials and private contractors visited the lava-covered roadway. Tribune-Herald.

Lava upsurge dies down; naming the fissure heats up. A state board has received its first application recommending a name and expects a second application soon as part of a process that will involve Hawaiian elders, competing proposals and possibly a public meeting in Puna to determine what to call the roughly 100-foot-tall cinder cone that began as one of 24 cracks in the ground emitting lava and at times spouted magma more than 200 feet high. Star-Advertiser.

Overuse of the historic Waipio Valley and an effort to sell much of the land have created an uncertain future for the hearty people who live, work and play here. Civil Beat.

Maui

Former Maui police officer gets probation for his role in bribery scheme. Walter Ahuna was sentenced Monday to three years probation with six months of home confinement. Ahuna is accused of helping two other former police officers, Anthony Maldonado and Chase Keliipaakaua, in their effort to get a victim to withdraw his complaint. KHON2.

Haleakala National Park will begin accepting applications for guided astronomy and hiking tour Commercial Use Authorizations, valid for up to two years. Maui Now.

Kauai

Andria Tupola, Republican candidate for governor of Hawaii, is on Kauai for a two-day campaign swing. Garden Island.

Kauai flush with films. “We started out this year with Disney’s ‘Jungle Cruise’ and we’re getting ready to start with the ‘Fast and the Furious’ offshoot — ‘Hobbs and Shaw,’” said Randy Francisco, Kauai film commissioner. “So with 2018, we’ll have these two bookend blockbusters.” Garden Island.