Hawaii short of COVID-19 testing materials as governor and mayors mull continuing quarantine past Aug. 1, Legislature kills bill giving health director power to declare emergencies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige and Hawaii mayors via Zoom

Gov. David Ige and the state’s mayors will meet again to decide whether to lift the 14-day travel quarantine. After a marathon meeting Wednesday, Gov. David Ige, the county mayors and health officials will reconvene today to make a final determination on lifting the 14-day self-quarantine restriction that has largely kept tourists from visiting the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Discussion continues between mayors, governor on whether to postpone lifting Hawaii’s travel quarantine. After a five-hour meeting on Wednesday, July 8, the governor and the mayors are still trying to figure out a path forward for the state regarding travel. KHON2.

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Hawaii’s coronavirus testing capability to be reduced in half after mainland company cuts off supplies. One of Hawaii’s largest COVID-19 testing laboratories has been cut off from its mainland supplier of chemicals needed to continue to run tests locally due to a surge in coronavirus cases across the country. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 surge on the mainland leads to shortage of testing supplies in Hawaii. A surge in new COVID-19 cases on the mainland is impacting how many coronavirus tests can be conducted in Hawaii each day. Diagnostic Laboratory Services, the largest locally-own lab in the islands, said its capacity for COVID-19 testing in Hawaii has been reduced from about 800 tests a day to 250. Hawaii News Now.

Surge in mainland cases impacting Hawaii’s testing capabilities. Dr. Scott Miscovich, who has been involved with COVID-19 testings on Oahu, says that the high demand for testing supplies in other states means our testing capabilities are going to be cut in half. KHON2.

Primary Hawaii virus testing lab loses services of supplier. Dr. Scott Miscovich, who leads broad testing efforts across the islands, said the supply loss means means the state’s testing capacity has been cut in half to about 2,500 daily. KITV4.

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Hawaii Lawmakers Won’t Give Health Director Broad COVID-19 Screening Powers. A controversial bill that outlined a state health department screening response during public health emergencies has died at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

New ICE rule won’t effect international students in Hawaii as universities plan to resume in-person classes. The University of Hawaii and Hawaii Pacific University says it plans to resume in-person classes this fall. The decision helps international students in Hawaii facing deportation under a new federal rule. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii debates how close is too close for kids in classrooms. As Hawaii’s public schools gear up to reopen next month, one question has proved to be a lightning rod of concern: How close is too close in the classroom? Star-Advertiser.

Delay in tourism reopening could spell economic disaster for Hawaii. As the state ponders pushing back the reopening of the tourism industry from August 1, Hawaii’s economic driver remains in limbo. KHON2.

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United Airlines anticipates 386 Hawaii job furloughs. United Airlines expects to furlough 332 employees at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and an additional 54 at Kahului Airport for six months or longer beginning around Oct. 1, as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to hammer the airline industry and stifle Hawaii’s tourism-based economy. Star-Advertiser.

United Airlines workers in Hawaii face layoffs as air travel industry struggles. United Airlines is preparing to make major layoffs beginning in October, and workers at two Hawaii airports appear to be in danger of losing their jobs. Hawaii News Now.

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Coal-Burning Ban Among Measures On Track To Clear Hawaii Legislature. Bills to regulate Lyft and Uber, prohibit sea walls and reform gun laws also have agreement between the House and Senate ahead of a final vote Friday. Civil Beat.

The Māʻili Measure: How Hawaiʻi Determines Damages for Thousands of Native Hawaiians. Thousands of Native Hawaiians are set to receive financial compensation from the state in a historic breach-of-trust case recently decided by Hawaiʻiʻs Supreme Court. Hawaii Public Radio.

Court official to oversee damages for Hawaiian homesteads. A court-appointed special master will determine the damages distributed to each plaintiff in a 1999 class-action lawsuit. KITV4.

Coronavirus Is Disrupting Cadaver Dissection At UH. COVID-19 is prompting the University of Hawaii to reduce some of its teaching programs, including a foundational course in human dissection. Civil Beat.

General gets fourth star, takes over command of Pacific Air Forces. A command pilot with 71 combat missions and eight prior Pacific postings — including most recently as deputy commander of U.S. Forces Korea — took over as head of Pacific Air Forces Wednesday in command of approximately 46,000 airmen serving mainly in Hawaii, Japan, Korea, Alaska and Guam. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii adds 23 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 1,094. Hawaii health officials counted 23 new coronavirus cases today, bringing the statewide total number of infections to 1,094 since the start of the outbreak in February. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Updates: 23 New Cases Today; No Rollback After Sharp Spike; Kauai: TVRs Not For Quarantines. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOH Reports 23 New COVID-19 Cases Statewide. The Hawai‘i Department of Health reports 23 new COVID-19 cases statewide bringing the cumulative total to 1,094. Big Island Now.

Oahu

As US cases surge, council asks state to ‘consider’ delaying changes to travel restrictions. The Honolulu City Council voted unanimously on Wednesday to pass a resolution that asks the governor to ‘consider’ pausing his plan ― which is currently scheduled to go into effect Aug. 1. Hawaii News Now.

Council holds off on $26M bond for rail. The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday voted to hold off passing a measure to approve the sale of $26 million in general revenue bonds to help finance the city’s $9.2 billion, 20-mile rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Top contenders for Honolulu mayor make their case in ‘The Job Interview'. Hawaii’s primary election is just a month away, and the five leading candidates for Honolulu mayor are scrambling to make sure their messages are heard at a time when traditional campaigning is impossible and the scale of crisis facing the city is unprecedented. Hawaii News Now.

Rick Blangiardi: This Former TV Exec Wants To Be CEO Of Honolulu. Rick Blangiardi regularly used his platform on Hawaii News Now to criticize from the sidelines. Now he admits he doesn’t have all the answers either. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell reaffirms support for Doug Chin to Police Commission. Mayor Kirk Caldwell appeared before the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday to reaffirm his support for Honolulu Police Commission nominee Doug Chin, whose appointment has run into opposition headed by a group dedicated to progressive causes. Star-Advertiser.

Walk-on visits to USS Arizona Memorial to resume Friday. The National Park Service is resuming a “limited number” of USS Arizona Memorial programs on Friday with visits to the sunken battleship and grave. Star-Advertiser.

New Deal Reached To Fix Laniakea Parking, Traffic And Safety Problems. For years, the North Shore beach has been a notorious traffic choke point and an unsafe crossing for visitors. A new court agreement could change that. Civil Beat.

Bishop Museum now permanent home of 2 artifacts gifted to Captain Cook. Two cherished artifacts once gifted to Captain Cook in the 18th century can once again call Hawaii home. An ʻahu ʻula and mahiole, (feather cloak and traditional helmet) once owned by Hawaiian Chief Kalani’opu’u will be held in trust by Bishop Museum. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Yes, window AC units require building permits in Hawaii County: DPW said energy code requires it, but it may be amended. West Hawaii Today.

Council provides CARES input. Bolstered by nonbinding resolutions seeking financial bailouts for very small and women-owned businesses, the Hawaii County Council on Wednesday unanimously passed an $80 million relief package tapping into federal coronavirus funds. West Hawaii Today.

Council Votes To Help Small Businesses During Pandemic. The Hawaiʻi County Council passed a resolution urging the administration to use $5 million in CARES Act money to fund a micro-grant program for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Video News.

Resolution urges gender equality in COVID-19 recovery programs. The Hawaii County Council was very supportive Wednesday of a resolution urging the county administration to consider gender differences when crafting COVID-19 recovery programs. Tribune-Herald.

Resolution urges action to find ways for Young Brothers to resume full cargo service to the Big Island. Hawaii County Council members joined a growing list of elected officials calling for government support for Young Brothers to resume regular intra-state shipping. Tribune-Herald.

Young Brothers Shipping Solutions Sought By Council.  Councilmembers are hoping that the inter-island shipping company can take advantage of federal resources under America's Marine Highway program. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Proposals to limit terms, create new departments on tap. 6 charter changes up for first reading Friday in council. Six proposals that would limit terms for the mayor and council members, create departments for housing and agriculture and make other changes to county government will be considered by the Maui County Council on Friday. Maui News.

3000 Acres Burned in Hāli‘imaile Brush Fire: Haleakalā Hwy OPEN, Hāli‘imaile Rd CLOSED. An ongoing brush fire that started early Wednesday morning, has now burned an estimated 3,000 acres of brush. Maui Now.

Paia residents urged to remain vigilant as crews continue to battle large brush fire in Hali’imaile. Overnight, Maui fire department crews cut a large firebreak to protect residents in the area of Skill Village. KHON2.

Kauai

Kaua'i Mayor expresses alarm over recent rise in COVID-19 cases. The Garden Isle's 10-week streak of being COVID-19 free ended on June 18 when a person who did not show symptoms tested positive. KITV4.

Kaua‘i residents reflect, consider reopening to transpacific travel. Since Mayor Derek Kawakami signed the first emergency proclamation relating to COVID-19 on March 4, life has been different for business owners and residents on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Another round of amending the Housing Policy. The county’s Housing Policy that was first enacted over a decade ago is seeing a set of revisions after it had not produced the affordable housing results the county originally intended. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i United Way secures relief funds. Noon, July 22 to the Kaua‘i United Way is the deadline for organizations wishing to be considered for funding from the federal Emergency Food &Shelter program designed to provide food, rent, utility and other assistance to people in need. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature convenes today to spend CARES money, Honolulu mayoral candidates spar over rail, COVID-19 spikes expected, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Iolani Palace ©2020 All Hawaii News

Iolani Palace is ‘hurting badly’ financially following Covid-19 closure. Iolani Palace is facing financial difficulties after being closed for three months due to the coronavirus. Pacific Business News.

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Hawaii lawmakers lay out plans to use $635M in federal aid for the unemployed and small businesses. The Hawaii state Legislature has announced plans for how it will spend $635 million from the federal aid package in response to the coronavirus to help Hawaii residents and businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers detail how they'll use federal CARES Act money. $635 million will support unemployed residents, provide housing assistance and job training opportunities, and diversify Hawaii’s economy. KITV4.

Legislature Allocates $635 Million in CARES Act Funds. The Hawai‘i State Legislature’s comprehensive plan to use $635 million in federal CARES Act funds will provide ongoing, immediate relief to residents and small businesses who are suffering from the devastating economic shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Lawmakers Get Back To Work Monday As Critical Issues Collide. Lawmakers will reconvene amid a budget crisis, pandemic and civil unrest not seen in years, all on the cusp of the primary election. Civil Beat.

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Gov. David Ige reportedly close to announcing testing protocol, loosened quarantine. Gov. David Ige’s administration is poised to adopt a COVID-19 testing protocol similar to one being used by Alaska, and is expected to announce as early as this week that at least some travelers will be allowed to bypass Hawaii’s two-week quarantine requirement this summer if they provide proof of a recent negative test for the new coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

State: Spike in new COVID-19 cases is cause for concern but won’t slow reopening plans. The state health director said Friday that an increase of 27 new COVID-19 cases on Friday is worrisome, but are manageable and won’t slow reopening plans. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii hotels get lift from interisland travel, anxiously await broader reopening. Statewide hotel occupancy in May fell to 14.2%, an 82.1% drop from May 2019. The drop in travel demand also caused the average daily room rate to decline to $126.72, a 50.4% drop from May 2019. Star-Advertiser.

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More financial help on the way for unemployed residents. More financial help is on the way for unemployed Hawaii residents thanks to a new plan that allocates weekly and monthly stipends. KITV4.

With thousands out of work, scammers are targeting the unemployment system. With more than 143,000 Hawaii residents unemployed due to the pandemic, consumer advocates said these scammers are taking money away from the people who need it most. Hawaii News Now.

Volunteer Sleuths Track Down Hawaii's Quarantine Scofflaws. Former longtime television reporter Angela Keen knows how to track people down. During the coronavirus pandemic, she’s putting her skills to use finding tourists who defy Hawaii's mandatory two-week quarantine on arriving travelers. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s Highest Court Is Pushing Back On How Police Interrogate Suspects. The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday reined in what police officers can say to suspects in order to elicit confessions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Cesspool Problem Continues To Bubble Up As EPA Cracks Down. EPA is targeting hundreds of the largest disposal pits but Hawaii has about 88,000 cesspools still in use. Civil Beat.

Study: Marine-management areas can restore state’s depleted fisheries. A recent comprehensive study has found Hawai‘i’s nearshore waters need more effective management, and that a diverse, integrated system of marine-management areas can help restore the state’s declining coral-reef fisheries and boost the resilience of coral reefs in a changing climate. Garden Island.

State Sen. Breene Harimoto Dies At 66. The former legislator and Honolulu City Councilman represented parts of Pearl City, Waimalu, Aiea and Halawa. Civil Beat.

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11 New Cases in Hawai‘i Brings Statewide Total to 814. There are 11 new COVID-19 case reported in Hawaiʻi today–nine on Oʻahu, and two on Hawaiʻi Island–pushing the statewide count to 814 cases in Hawaiʻi over the course of the pandemic. Maui Now.

Hawaii Updates: 11 New Cases; Health Officials Say Lax Practices Led To Recent New COVID-19 Cases. The Hawaii Department of Health reported 11 new cases of COVID-19 today, 9 on Oahu and 2 on the Big Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii sees 11 new coronavirus cases as statewide total climbs to 814. Hawaii saw 11 new coronavirus cases today, as the statewide total of infections since the start of the outbreak climbed to 814, state Department of Health officials said in their daily midday count. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 21: 11 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Most of the new cases were reported on Oahu. Civil Beat.

11 new COVID cases reported statewide; 9 of the new cases are on Oahu. Oahu led the state Sunday in the number of new COVID-19 cases reported. Nine of the 11 total cases were that of patients on Oahu. Hawaii Island reported two additional positives. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidates spar over Honolulu’s rail project in forum. The tenor of this year’s Honolulu mayoral campaign turned up a notch last week when candidates at a televised forum began talking, and in some cases finger­-pointing, about the city’s troubled $9.2 billion rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council takes aim at new regulations against monster homes.  Even after the city passed a law regulating monster homes last year, some say the problem still persists. Hawaii News Now.

Planned bridge has Wahiawa and Whitmore Village residents divided. For 73 years, Whitmore Village, with origins as a Central Oahu pineapple plantation community, has been tied closely to Wahiawa town, also rooted in agriculture. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu bar owners come up with creative ways to keep patrons separated. After a three-month shutdown, bars are finally back open. But on Friday night, it was anything but booming. Hawaii News Now.

Fire department implements new firecracker permit application system online. The HFD is implementing its new online firecracker permit application system for consumer convenience. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

First installment: $40M in CARES funds hits county coffers. It’s in the bank. Hawaii County on Friday received half of its promised $80 million in emergency coronavirus response money, and the County Council has scheduled a special meeting July 1 to begin the work of spending it. West Hawaii Today.

Maunakea command plan again delayed. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents once again postponed action on a proposed new internal management structure for governance of Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

Humane Society to forgo Animal Control Contract. For the first time in decades, animal control services on the Big Island will soon no longer be the responsibility of the Hawaii Island Humane Society. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo museums still largely in limbo. East Hawaii museums, some more reliant on tourist visits than others, are among those businesses working to reopen as restrictions in place to combat COVID-19 are loosened. Tribune-Herald.

Dozens turn out for missing keiki rally. Lopaka Milliora organized the event to simply bring awareness to the public that there are active cases of kids that have been kidnapped or have run away. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor lets budget go into effect without his signature. Citing objections to higher trash and landfill fees and cuts to department budgets, Mayor Michael Victorino announced Friday that he would allow next year’s budget to go into effect without his signature. Maui News.

Committee to Hear Change in Zoning for Kilohana Makai Workforce Housing Project in Kīhei. The Maui Planning and Sustainable Land Use Committee will discuss the change in zoning application for the Kilohana Makai Workforce Housing Project in Kīhei, committee Chair Tamara Paltin announced today. Maui Now.

Kauai

Charter Review Commission meets today. Today, the county’s Charter Review Commission will decide which of seven proposed charter amendments will be added to November’s ballot. Garden Island.

Grove Farm Is ‘Disappointed’ In Planned Changes For Kauai Rehab Facility. In a letter to Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami, Grove Farm President and CEO Warren Haruki said he is disappointed that the original vision for the facility was not given a chance to succeed. Civil Beat.

Senate gives itself subpoena powers as Legislature, governor squabble over CARES money; Honolulu and Kauai reopen churches and restaurants; 22% unemployment is historic high, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige press conference via Facebook live

Citing frustration with Ige administration, state Senate forms investigative committee. State senators have formed an investigative committee, saying they’re frustrated by a lack of transparency from Gov. David Ige’s administration during the pandemic crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers try to move COVID-19 relief money out of Ige’s reach. Simmering frustration between Gov. David Ige and the state Legislature approached the boiling point Thursday as lawmakers voted to move more than $1.3 billion into the state’s “rainy day” budget reserve fund — where lawmakers would control it — and the Senate authorized a committee to issue subpoenas to pry information loose from the administration. Star-Advertiser.

Ige’s Economic Chief Accuses Senators Of Harassment. Mike McCartney, director of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, refused to discuss the administration’s plan to revive the economy. Civil Beat.

Senate creates investigative committee with subpoena power. The Hawaii State Senate voted to give the Special Committee on COVID-19 subpoena powers today. KHON2.

Hawaii’s head of business and economic development declines to allow staff to testify before Senate committee. Mike McCartney, director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, declined to have his staff testify today before a Hawaii Senate committee because of what he was said a “hostile” environment by lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

Head of DBEDT claims Senate Ways and Means Committee meeting a 'hostile environment'. Mike McCartney, Head of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism refused to let his staff testify in front of the Senate Ways and Means Committee Thursday. KITV4.

Legislature Passes Budget Cuts But Will Be Back In June. The $1 billion spending reductions will now go to Gov. David Ige for his review. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers recess after addressing budget shortfall. Hawaii lawmakers on Thursday recessed after passing multiple funding bills designed to cope with the shock of the coronavirus pandemic that has hammered the state’s tourism-dependent economy. House and Senate leaders said they expected to reconvene around June 15 to continue their work. Hawaii News Now.

Without intervention, Hawaii government could run out of operating funds next year. Hawaii’s economic situation is so dire that state government could run out of operating funds by June 2021 if lawmakers and officials don’t find a way to slash expenses and increase tax collections. Star-Advertiser.

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Ige mulls lifting quarantine for interisland travel. Gov. David Ige said Thursday he’s considering lifting the 14-day mandatory quarantine currently in place for interisland air travelers, saying measures are pointing in the right direction to make this move. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Officials Consider Lifting Inter-island Travel Quarantine. During a Thursday news conference, top state officials talked about how "health measures are pointing in the right direction to make this move" to resume inter-island travel. Big Island Video News.

Plans to Lift Interisland Travel Quarantine Underway. Interisland travel is the next monumental item on the state’s coronavirus to-do list. Big Island Now.

Lifting Interisland Travel Quarantine is “Top-Of-Mind,” No Target Date Set. Currently both quarantines for out-of-state arrivals and interisland travel are in place through June 30th; however, Gov. Ige has noted that lifting the 14-day quarantine for interisland travel is top-of-mind. Maui Now.


Ige says state is taking ‘cautious’ approach as more businesses plan to reopen. The governor on Thursday urged residents to prepare for a moderate uptick in COVID-19 cases as the state continues to reopen in a “cautious” way. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s unemployment rate reaches historic high. According to the State Labor Department, April’s unemployment rate went up to 22 percent. This reflected the economic impact of COVID-19 in the state. KHON2.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate jumps to 22.3% amid pandemic. Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate jumped to 22.3% in April, up from just 2.4% the previous month, as hotels, restaurants and retailers closed amid efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Desolate peak reached in Hawaii unemployment. Hawaii’s unemployment rate shot up to a really terrible level in April: a record 22.3%, or nearly 1 in 4 people in the state’s workforce. Star-Advertiser.

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DOH Says Its COVID-19 Testing Capacity Has ‘Increased Dramatically’. Bruce Anderson, director of the Department of Health, said the state now has the ability to perform up to 3,600 tests daily. Civil Beat.

Current Board of Education Member May Not Be Renominated. Two new boards members were confirmed by the full Senate Thursday, but the renomination of Kili Namauu has been stalled by the Senate Education Committee. Civil Beat.

Hawaii School Superintendent Gets ‘Effective’ Rating From Board. But the Board of Education scored the school chief poorly in areas like operations, resource and personnel management. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Reopened Its Civil Rights Office. But Investigations Are Still Stalled. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, the commission faced a growing backlog of cases. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s narrow eviction moratorium means not everyone is protected.  Evictions are on hold as part of Gov’s David Ige’s supplemental emergency proclamation — but only evictions for non-payment of rent. Hawaii News Now.

Anonymous donor surprises nearly 2K kupuna with free groceries at Hawaii Foodland stores. An anonymous donor surprised hundreds of Hawaii’s kupuna at all Foodland, Sack N Save and Foodland Farms stores statewide today by covering the full costs of their groceries. Star-Advertiser.

Two women defy Hawaii traveler quarantine, including one who got a job in Laie. Authorities have arrested a visitor to Hawaii who broke the state’s 14-day travel quarantine to slow the spread of COVID-19 and are working with another to get her back home. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — MAY 21: 4 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Hawaii and Maui counties collectively reported four new coronavirus cases. Civil Beat.

Virus cases identified in Hilo, South Kona. Four new cases of COVID-19 were reported Thursday — three on the Big Island, the other on Maui. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Fish Council Urges Trump To Open Marine Monuments To Fishing. This is the second time Wespac has asked the president to make it easier to fish in and around environmental sanctuaries. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Oahu restaurants and churches prepare to open their doors with social distancing rules in place. Oahu restaurants will be allowed to reopen for indoor dining on June 5 and churches will be able to resume in-person services with restrictions on Saturday under a new emergency order signed by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

City allows in-person spiritual services to resume on Oahu this weekend.  In-person spiritual services will once again be allowed starting Saturday, as long as worshippers follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks. Hawaii News Now.

In-Person Religious Services May Resume Saturday. You can pray together again, but keep a safe distance, the city says. Civil Beat.

Mayor Caldwell allows in-person spiritual services to resume this weekend. Come this weekend, churches on Oahu will be allowed to reopen. KITV4.

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Authorities Struggle To Enforce Quarantine On Vacation Rental Occupants. The City and County of Honolulu is not able to effectively enforce the mandatory 14-day quarantine on visitors staying in vacation rentals, according to one senior official. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Council Gets Another Open Meetings Violation. Adding items to meeting agendas after the deadline should be done “rarely, if ever,” the state said. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Is Testing Sewage To Watch For The Spread Of COVID-19. Oahu has begun testing sewage for COVID-19, hoping to get an early warning of outbreaks and increase consumer confidence as the island reopens. Civil Beat.

NOAA reminds holiday beachgoers to stay away from monk seal pup at Kaiwi coastline. A newly weaned Hawaiian monk seal might make an appearance around the Kaiwi coastline on Oahu over the Memorial Day weekend — a worrisome thought for those looking out for her. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council finds money for golf, contingency funds in tight budget. Fees for sewers and rubbish disposal will continue to increase, taxes could rise for luxury second homes and services will be cut countywide, but County Council members still found room in the budget Thursday to add another $565,000 for their contingency accounts and golf subsidies. West Hawaii Today.

How to spend $80M: Kim outlines uses for COVID-19 response funds. Mayor Harry Kim had less than two days to submit a plan to the state Legislature, and now that SB 75 passed and is on its way to the governor, a plan is taking shape. West Hawaii Today.

San Buenaventura to seek Ruderman’s state Senate seat. State Rep. Joy San Buenaventura of Puna will seek the 2nd District Senate seat currently held by Russell Ruderman, who on Wednesday announced he would not run for re-election. Tribune-Herald.

Regents delay action on new Maunakea proposal. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents voted Thursday to postpone discussion of a new internal management structure for Maunakea governance until June. Tribune-Herald.

Public access to Waipio Valley will be closed. The Hawaii County Dept. of Public Works announced that public access to Waipio Valley will be closed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25. KHON2.

Maui

County officials detail reopening considerations. Some high-risk businesses get green light ahead of medium-risk ones. Maui News.

Colorado Woman Wanted for Quarantine Violation on Maui Agrees to Return Home. A Colorado woman wanted for allegedly violating the 14-day travel quarantine on Maui has voluntarily elected to return home to the mainland, according to Maui police. Maui Now.

Maui Unemployment Rate Highest in State at 36% in April. The Hawai‘i State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations today announced that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for April was 22.3 percent. Maui Now.

Work Begins on 20 Temporary Emergency Shelters at Waiale Park in Wailuku. The County of Maui begins construction tomorrow, May 22 on an estimated 20 temporary emergency shelters at Waiale Park in Wailuku for displaced families and individuals impacted by COVID-19. Maui Now.

Kauai

Green light to reopen. Churches, salons, barber shops and outdoor-based tour companies on Kaua‘i can reopen today. Garden Island.

Kauai gets governor’s approval to reopen some ‘medium-risk’ businesses by Friday. Kauai has secured the governor’s approval to reopen a number of “medium-risk” businesses and public spaces Friday, including hair and nail salons, pools and fitness training. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai businesses get ready to reopen Friday. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami has gotten the go ahead from the governor to reopen medium risk businesses as soon as Friday. Many Kauai businesses say their phones have been ringing off the hook with customers since the announcement was made. KHON2.

Aloha overflowed out of the front entrance of the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Regency & Spa Thursday afternoon when the resort’s General Manager Dan King and a band of volunteers welcomed back colleagues for a family-style meal pickup conducted within the parameters of social distancing and health safety guidelines created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Garden Island.

Hotel keys to keep tourists in quarantine, Ige backs off employee pay cuts, furloughs, Legislature divvies up federal CARES funds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki hotels ©2020 All Hawaii News

One-time use key among new methods for strengthening quarantine monitoring. One of the updates included a new method hotels are making sure their guests are following the quarantine. This is by giving them a one-time use room key. KHON2.

Vacation rentals use loopholes to skirt quarantine. Vacation rentals, which have been ruled nonessential businesses statewide as government tries to stop the spread of COVID-19, are still drawing visitors to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Ige tells state workers: There’s no ‘immediate need’ to consider pay cuts or furloughs. The governor sought to reassure state workers Tuesday, saying there is no “immediate need to consider pay cuts or furloughs” despite the gaping budget shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers Are Deciding How To Spend Federal Bailout Money. The House Finance Committee doesn’t want state agencies to use federal stimulus dollars if they already have state money that can be used. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers tackle the state's budget bills. COVID 19 plays a big part in budget requests and spending in the state's multi-billion dollar budget bills. KITV4.

Color-coded state recovery plan to be unveiled. A cryptic, color-coded plan to reopen more parts of Hawaii’s economy will be unveiled this week, the House Finance Committee was told Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

State aims to work with University of Hawaii to train contact tracers. The state Department of Health today asked lawmakers to appropriate about $2.5 million to fund a program at the University of Hawaii that would train workers to track contacts of people who have tested positive for COVID-19. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s Struggling Farms Want The State To Become A Bigger Customer. With local farmers reeling from a drop in demand from hotels and restaurants, advocates hope schools, prisons and hospitals will buy more local produce. Civil Beat.

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As ER Volumes Drop, Hawaii Doctors Worry People Are Delaying Care. Many health professionals across the state suspect the main reason for the decline in ER visits is patients’ fear of catching the coronavirus at the hospital. Hawaii Public Radio.

Doctors worry people are avoiding hospitals despite serious medical needs. Hawaii doctors are alarmed at the dramatic decline in emergency room visits in the last month. They say people are so afraid of contracting COVID-19, many are now ignoring life-threatening illnesses. Hawaii News Now.

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School’s Out And With It A Reliable System For Flagging Abuse. School closures caused by COVID-19 this spring have meant fewer reports of possible abuse, but more neighbors and relatives are making calls. Civil Beat.

One new coronavirus case on Oahu brings statewide total to 635. Health officials said this afternoon that the new case was an out-of-state resident who was screened at the airport and subsequently tested positive. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Pandemic Forces Honolulu Council To Slash Budget. Oahu’s local government isn’t expected to be as hard hit as Hawaii state government. Civil Beat.

State to borrow from new stadium project. While the state Legislature intends to pull back $20 million in general funds that had been appropriated to help build the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, it still expects to allot a full $350 million in financing to the project, lawmakers said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu malls and retail centers plan to reopen Friday. Several of Oahu’s shopping malls and retail centers are getting ready to reopen Friday as part of the first phase in reopening the state’s economy, but with new guidelines in place in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu retailers urge customers to prepare for a very different shopping experience. Two months after they were forced to close down, Oahu retailers are scrambling to put the finishing touches on their stores to be able to reopen Friday. Hawaii News Now.

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Mayor offering grants to very small Oahu businesses. The city is directing at least $25 million in federal coronavirus relief aid to help very small businesses on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Caldwell announces new relief and recovery fund for small businesses. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces a Small Business Relief and Recovery Fund to help small local businesses who need it most, like mom and pop shops, and other Honolulu restaurants and stores that have been hit hard by COVID-19. KHON2.

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Rail’s interim opening is pushed back to March. City officials now don’t expect the first segment of the $9.2 billion rail line will be operational until March, three months later than had been forecast. Star-Advertiser.

Date for rail to be up and running pushed back. The date that the Honolulu rail system was set to be up and running has been pushed back. KITV4.

City Council Grows Anxious As Rail’s COVID-19 Problems Deepen. The transit project has been plagued for years by skyrocketing costs. Now it faces a $100 million slump in the revenues that fund construction. Civil Beat.

After more than a year of deliberations, the Honolulu Rate Commission gave final OK to a plan that raises daily fares and monthly and annual passes for bus and rail riders but leaves it up to the City Council to decide when the new rates should kick in. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii police union announces endorsement in Honolulu mayoral race. A former broadcast executive turned mayoral candidate has scooped up a valuable endorsement. The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers endorsed Rick Blangiardi for Honolulu mayor on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Pandemic Ignites A Bike Boom In Honolulu. With gyms closed and other exercise options limited, bicycle shops say they are selling almost every bike they can get their hands on. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

$80M CARES funds could come to Hawaii County. Hawaii County would receive $80 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funding under a bill moving through the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

PGV reboot delayed again. Commercial operations at Puna Geothermal Venture are expected to begin in the fourth quarter, said parent company Ormat Technologies Inc. on Monday as part of a first-quarter earnings update. Tribune-Herald.

Corporation counsel responds to ACLU letter criticizing county’s decision to remove homeless camp. Hawaii County’s top civil attorney responded to a letter by the American Civil Liberties Union criticizing the county’s decision to remove a downtown Hilo homeless camp in April. Tribune-Herald.

No Active COVID-19 Cases On Hawaii Island, Civil Defense Reports. All 75 identified cases of COVID-19 on the Big Island have been cleared by the Department of Health as recovered, the mayor says. Big Island Video News.

The Big Island now has no active COVID-19 cases, but mayor urges vigilance. Hawaii Island on Tuesday reached an encouraging milestone in the coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Mayor Says “Absolutely Not” When Asked about Lifting Travel Quarantine on May 31st. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said he plans to announce tomorrow (Wednesday, May 13, 2020), Phase 2 of the opening of Maui’s parks. Maui Now.

A Mixed Reopening. Customers hope more shops resume business. Just because retailers were allowed to reopen Monday didn’t mean they would actually do it, many shoppers learned when visiting malls around Maui. Maui News.

Retail businesses on Maui slow to reopen. Free standing stores and some stores within shopping malls are now allowed to get back to business but many are choosing to remain closed. KITV4.

Kauai

Groundbreaking for Pua Loke. Construction for the $27.5 million project will consist of three residential buildings containing one- to three-bedroom rental units and is slated to begin before the end of this month. Garden Island.

Suicide uptick raises concern. Four suicides on Kaua‘i in less than a week have prompted concern by police and health workers that the COVID-19 crisis is moving in a dangerous new direction, with broad risks to mental health caused by joblessness, financial reversals and despair. Garden Island.

Seal found dead was pregnant. The Hawaiian monk seal found dead on Ha‘ena Beach in late April was pregnant, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Garden Island.

Masks, physical distancing instituted as Legislature goes back into session, Lt. Gov. Green pushes to open restaurants and salons May 25, Gen. Hara warns of possible riots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature opens May 11, 2020 PC:Hawaii House Democrats

Lawmakers return to Capitol to make budget fixes and avoid furloughs. Masked state lawmakers gathered at the Capitol on Monday, returning to work in floor sessions where they sat 6 feet away from one another in a striking display of caution that illustrates how much has changed with the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the state and the country. Star-Advertiser.

Back In Session: Hawaii Lawmakers Grapple With A Billion-Dollar Budget Hole. Gov. David Ige is not on board with much of the Legislature’s fiscal plan including how to spend federal bailout money and public worker pay cuts. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers back to work on budget bills. The state legislative is back in session and lawmakers focus on financial bills during this tough economic time. KITV4.

Lawmakers outline plans to make up state’s budget shortfall. Lawmakers said Monday they plan to plug a projected $1 billion hole in the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year by using money from the rainy day fund, reducing vacancies in state bureaucracies and issuing bonds. Associated Press

‘Clerical error’ overstated state’s coronavirus-related budget shortfall — but by how much? During a press conference on Monday, Governor David Ige acknowledged his budget staff made a financial miscalculation before he proposed 20% pay cuts for all state workers several weeks ago. Hawaii News Now.

House Speaker Saiki Remarks At Reconvening Legislature. Over the coming weeks, Speaker Saiki said, lawmakers will work to avoid drastic budget cuts and disruption in basic government services. Big Island Video News.

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Gov. David Ige considers photographing incoming Hawaii visitors to improve quarantine compliance. An effort to improve screening of non-residents arriving at Hawaii airports may include photographing them, under a plan that’s being explored by state officials, Gov. David Ige said. Star-Advertiser.


Green Announces ‘Travel With Aloha’ Program. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green on Monday announced his “Travel With Aloha” initiative, which proposes all those who want to travel to Hawai‘i receive a rapid turnaround test for COVID-19. If they test negative, they could be exempted from the stipulations of the mandatory, 14-day travel quarantine. Big Island Now.

Hawaiian Airlines blocks middle seats and requires face coverings amid pandemic. Airlines are starting to change how passengers board and sit inside planes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian Airlines is flying some of its larger parked jets on neighbor island flights to allow for physical distancing. KHON2.

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Ige says Hawaii ‘flattening curve’ but must remain vigilant. Gov. David Ige on Monday afternoon lauded Hawaii for continuing to “flatten the curve” but warned that social distancing must continue to stay on track so that the state can slowly reopen its economy. Star-Advertiser.

Coronavirus recovery a ‘marathon,’ not a sprint, Gov. Ige says. For 23 consecutive days, fewer than six new cases of the novel coronavirus have been reported statewide. But in light of the downward trend, as businesses across the state either reopen or prepare to do so, Gov. David Ige is cautioning Hawaii residents to move forward carefully. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. eyes May 25 for ‘medium risk businesses’ to reopen. With new cases of the coronavirus few and far between, leaders are getting more specific about what the next phase of reopening looks like. On Monday the Lt. Governor said he believes it’s safe enough to get the the majority of the kamaaina economy back up and running. Things like restaurants, salons and what he calls other medium risk businesses. Hawaii News Now.

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2 coronavirus clusters in Hawaii involved people who went to parties, Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara says. Two clusters of people who became ill with COVID-19 in Hawaii involved parties where people apparently ignored warnings to engage in social distancing and avoid social gatherings, according to Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara, the incident commander for the state’s coronavirus response. Star-Advertiser.

2 New COVID-19 Cases Confirmed In Hawaii. The state has confirmed 634 COVID-19 cases since the first case of the virus was reported in early March. About 13% of those people have been hospitalized. Civil Beat.

Cases Up 2; Health Dept. Under More Fire; Prosecutor Raises Alarms Over Inmates. Hawaii recorded two new coronavirus cases today. The state health department reported that the count is now at 634 and the deaths stand at 17. Oahu cases are at 410, Maui County at 117, Hawaii Island at 75 and Kauai County at 21. There are 11 cases diagnosed out of state. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Delay in reopening economy could lead to rioting. The head of Hawaii’s coronavirus response team said Monday that further delays in reopening Hawaii’s economy — especially to tourism — could result in rioting. Star-Advertiser.

General Hara Warns Of Civil Unrest. Members of the House Select Committee on COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness heard the concerns of the incident commander for the state's coronavirus response. Big Island Video News.

If economic strife continues, Gen. Hara worries of ‘civil unrest’ in Hawaii. Governor Ige's cautious approach to reopening the economy drew harsh warnings Monday from the business and government leaders who are advising him. One of their concerns is the possibility of riots. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige: Civil unrest unlikely. Gov. David Ige said Monday he doesn’t think Hawaii’s current economic crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic will lead to civil unrest. Tribune-Herald.

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Gov. Ige on CARES Act Funding: $175 Million to be Split Among Kaua‘i, Maui and Hawai‘i Counties. Governor David Ige said Maui will split $175 million in federal funds with Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi counties as part of the CARES Act appropriation for the state. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s Struggling Farms Want The State To Become A Bigger Customer. With local farmers reeling from a drop in demand from hotels and restaurants, advocates hope schools, prisons and hospitals will buy more local produce. Civil Beat.

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Hawaiian Homes Launches Rental Relief Program. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and Aloha United Way today launched the new program for beneficiaries. Big Island Video News.

New program will provide financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries on DHHL wait list. Financial help is on the way for Hawaiians on the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wait list. KITV4.

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The doors of Hawaii’s libraries are still open online. Although the Hawaii State Public Library System’s 51 branches are closed during, people are still flocking to make use of its myriad online resources. Star-Advertiser.

2020 graduates’ job prospects predicted to be grim. As graduation nears, Hawaii college and high school seniors might face a slim chance of landing a job during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Star-Advertiser.

16 New Solar Farms For Hawaii But Utility Won’t Say Where Exactly. The public might have to wait 30 days for details of plans for 16 solar-plus-storage or standalone storage projects on three islands. Civil Beat.

USS Nevada located off of Oahu. The wreck of the Nevada was found about 75 miles southwest of Pearl Harbor in more than 15,400 feet of water. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Invited To Testify On Spending Federal Aid. Residents can share their thoughts about how to spend $387 million. Civil Beat.

New legislation asks for $100 million to help Honolulu’s small businesses. Oahu is getting about $380 million dollars, and now a big push is being made to take a $100 million of that and put it toward small businesses. KHON2.

Pearlridge Center, other retailers begin to detail phased reopening plans.  Reduced hours, rearranged food courts and continued respect for social distancing practices are among the guidelines retailers are setting forth ahead of May 15, the date most such stores will be allowed to reopen on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

International Market Place will reopen on Friday. The center court and grassy lawn areas will remain closed along with drinking fountains. KITV4.

Retailers looking to nab cleaning supplies and sanitizer before reopening. Retailers are preparing to reopen this week, but finding the necessary cleaning supplies and protective gear is becoming a challenge for some. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Antibody testing begins on the Big Island. Drive-through testing for COVID-19 antibodies, which started last week on the Big Island, is apparently the first of its kind available in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Ample, Highly Accurate Antibody Tests to go Widescale Inside the Month. Antibody testing arrived on Hawai‘i Island for public use over the weekend, and Lieutenant Governor Josh Green said Monday he thinks widescale surveys will be underway across all islands inside of the month. Big Island Now.

Maui

A Maui company making ventilators is now getting international orders. Maui County spent $100,000 to purchase 64 newly manufactured ventilators – all made by Maui engineers. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Police Conduct Walk Through at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center on Day 1 of Phased Reopening. Many retailers remain closed or are in the process of cleaning for a future reopening. Maui Now.

Hotel developer moving forward despite economic downturn. Draft EA released for six-story Hotel Wailuku. Even with travel down and the economy struggling during the coronavirus pandemic, a Wailuku landowner is moving forward with plans to build a 156-room hotel in Wailuku town. Maui News.

Kauai

Keeping short-term rentals closed. While restrictions and stay-at-home orders are being lifted around the island, short-term vacation rentals and homestays have been shut down through the end of May. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature reconvenes Monday to tackle $1B shortfall, new rules coming for tourists, CARES money to provide safety net, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii lawmakers will return to Capitol on Monday to help patch huge state budget hole. Hawaii lawmakers will return to the state Capitol on Monday to get back to work, and their primary mission is to find ways to cope with a looming budget shortfall and prevent furloughs and pay cuts for public workers. Star-Advertiser.

Legislature Reconvenes Monday To Deal With $1B Shortfall. House Speaker Scott Saiki and Senate President Ron Kouchi said the session may last from 6 to 10 days. Hawaii Public Radio.

Legislature reconvening next week to figure out budget shortfall. The state legislature is estimating about a billion-dollar shortfall. To address the shortfall, the state senate and the house will be reconvening next week. KHON2.

Legislature will reconvene next week to address budget shortfall. The state Legislature will reconvene next week — after more than a month of recess — in order to address the state’s growing budget shortfall. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i Legislature to Reconvene on May 11 After Nearly 2 Month Recess. Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi and House Speaker Scott K. Saiki today announced that the Hawaiʻi State Senate and the Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives will reconvene the 2020 legislative session on Monday, May 11. Maui Now.

As lawmakers grapple with $1B shortfall, advocates urge them to preserve social safety net. As lawmakers prepare to grapple with a $1 billion budget shortfall when they reconvene Monday, advocates for the poor are warning them not to repeat the mistakes of the past. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s tourism recovery could take years, experts say. Occupancy at Hawaii hotels plummeted to about 10% statewide for several weeks in April as COVID-19 fears and lockdowns ravaged the state’s tourist- driven economy. Star-Advertiser.

Is Hawaii Ready To Reopen The Economy? Some Experts Say Not Yet. State, county and health experts are publicly at odds over whether enough trained workers are in place to track an expected resurgence of the virus, especially when tourists return. Civil Beat.

New requirements ahead for passengers arriving in Hawaii. Two major changes are in the plans for arriving passengers: a new level of scrutiny and a new form designed to give officials information to follow up on — and potentially prosecute — failed promises to adhere to statewide quarantine rules. Star-Advertiser.

Airline Rep Questioned On Informing Passengers About Quarantine. An airline industry spokesperson was questioned by state senators Thursday about how well customers planning a trip to Hawaiʻi are informed about the 14-quarantine mandated for all visitors to the islands. Big Island Video News.

Lawmakers face more hurdles trying to crack down on quarantine violators. More frustration for state lawmakers trying to crack down on visitors who don’t follow the 14-day quarantine order. Plans to immediately fine violators face legal challenges. KHON2.

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Schools Chief: Use Federal Bailout Money To Avoid Teacher Pay Cuts. Superintendent Christina Kishimoto outlined some plans for federal stimulus money, including keeping salaries at current levels. Civil Beat.

Hawaii teachers inundate Board of Education with testimony against pay cuts. More than 900 Hawaii public school teachers pleaded with the state Board of Education not to cut their pay to meet the looming budget shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers look to BOE to protect pay in the face of looming cuts. Teachers are pressuring the Hawaii Board of Education to help protect their pay as the state legislature prepares to start cutting the budget. Hawaii News Now.

Special needs students falling behind. As schools remain closed and offer virtual distance learning while the COVID-19 pandemic runs its course, many parents worry that their children are regressing, especially students who need special education services. Maui News.

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Unemployment Update: 141,077 Claims Processed, Additional 84,500 Under Review. Since the start of COVID-19 response in Hawaiʻi, the state has paid out over $320 million in benefits. Maui Now.

State kicks off alphabetized system for unemployment claims certification. Thousands of laid off workers frustrated with trying to file weekly certifications for their unemployment claims are being encouraged to instead file on designated days. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Labor to implement alphabetized system for unprocessed unemployment claims. Due to what the governor called an “antiquated system,” tens of thousands of unemployment claims are still waiting to be processed. KHON2.

State asks unemployment claimants to file on specific days. In an effort to deal with a glut of unemployment claims, the state requested beneficiaries to file claims only on specific days of the week. Tribune-Herald.

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Hawaii’s coronavirus cases rise by 3 to 629. Hawaii’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen to 629, up three from Wednesday, the state Department of Health announced today. All three new cases are on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Three New COVID-19 Infections Confirmed On Oahu. As of Thursday, about 87% of those infected had gotten better. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases ‘released from isolation’ category includes fatalities. Media and sometimes government officials have referred to the “released from isolation” cases as people who have recovered from the virus. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces $25M program to reimburse household and childcare expenses during coronavirus. Caldwell said the program, called the COVID-19 “Hardship Relief for Individuals” program, will start May 18 with $25 million in seed money from the federal coronavirus aid bill. Star-Advertiser.

City announces $25M program to provide emergency aid to struggling Oahu families. With tens of thousands of Oahu residents unemployed, the city is launching a new emergency relief program to provide up to $1,000 a month to families in need. Hawaii News Now.

Pandemic Bust Your Budget? Honolulu Will Help With Expenses. Residents who can demonstrate they’re struggling can get six months of help with housing, utilities and child care. Civil Beat.

Mayors announce financial relief programs. On Thursday, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced a city program to assist families who are struggling financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. KHON2.

City and County of Honolulu offering financial assistance to residents in need. The new program just announced on Thursday is called the COVID-19 Hardship relief fund. KITV4.

City and County of Honolulu receiving grant money from the Federal Transit Administration. The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) will be receiving award funding from the Federal Transit Administration through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. KITV4.

Honolulu attorney connected to Katherine Kealoha is arrested again. A troubled Honolulu attorney who entered the spotlight during investigations into disgraced former deputy city Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha has been arrested again. Christopher Woo, 47, was arrested early Thursday morning for allegedly driving a stolen car. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hilo retailers begin reopening. Prince Kuhio Plaza is planning a tentative opening Saturday, with social distancing measures enforced throughout the stores and mall. Tribune-Herald.

Red tape: Administering CARES money costs a lot. Four Big Island charities have been approved for a portion of a $1.5 million federal grant. But the red tape will eat up $250,000 of it. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Muni Golf Course Reopening With Some New Rules. All persons arriving at the golf course to play shall wear face masks or face coverings, the County says, as it sets to reopen on Monday, May 11. Big Island Video News.

County to Open Three Greenwaste Sites on Limited Basis. After widespread calls to reopen its greenwaste services, Hawai‘i County is making such disposal available at three sites islandwide. Each site will be available three days per week. Big Island Now.

Maui

County retail businesses allowed to open Monday. Mayor says ‘miscommunication’ with Ige cleared up. Maui News.

Six visitors who violate quarantine rules are sent back. Six Maui visitors were being sent back to California on Wednesday after reports that they violated 14-day quarantine rules, a Maui airport official said. Maui News.

Kauai

Continuing to fund COVID-19 efforts. When the Kaua‘i County Council allocated $2 million to battle COVID-19 in March, most of these funds went toward sanitation products, personal protection supplies and operation of the Emergency Operation Center. Garden Island.

New kind of litter. Gloves, masks and other personal protective equipment are starting to accumulate on Kaua‘i shorelines, as well as places around the world, and Surfrider Foundation’s local Hawai‘i chapters are joining the nationwide organization in a campaign to bring awareness to the fact that discarded PPE is adding to the plastic pollution on the world’s shorelines. Garden Island.