Hawaii insurers defy new federal COVID vaccine guidelines, state launches website on military leases, Maui Prep Academy hit with transgender lawsuits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii insurers hold firm on COVID vaccine policies. Hawaii’s health insurers say they will cover COVID vaccinations for anyone older than six months, despite new FDA guidance that says children and healthy adults don’t need the shots. While public health advocates applaud the decision by Hawaii’s insurers, doctors and pharmacies are predicting a big drop in vaccinations. Hawaii News Now.

National organization pushes for more voter registrations in Hawaiʻi. The 2026 election may seem far away, but the national Voter Participation Center is already sending out postcards to get people registered to vote in Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

 Hawaiʻi enforces new law to combat discriminatory calls to law enforcement. The new law allows for penalties of no less than $1,000 plus legal fees against someone who is deemed through civil litigation to have called law enforcement on a person based on that person’s actual or perceived race, color, birthplace, age, religion, sex, gender expression or other protected class. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. 

New state website to keep Hawai‘i residents informed on future of U.S. Army leases. According to a new release from Gov. Josh Green’s office, the site will provide updates on key developments involving leases on Hawai‘i Island and O‘ahu and give people the chance to provide their perspectives and opinions on the matter. Big Island Now.

Native Hawaiian groups want to be included in discussions between state and military on training lands. Native Hawaiian groups are speaking out, calling for change as the military works to extend its use of training land in Hawaii. KHON2. KITV4.

Kiko remains a Category 2 hurricane, but more strengthening expected. The National Hurricane Center said in data valid at 11 p.m. Monday, Kiko had maximum sustained winds near 105 miles per hour with higher gusts. Hurricane force winds extend 15 miles from the center, while tropical storm force winds extend 90 miles. Kiko was located about 1,700 miles east of Hilo and was moving to the west at 7 miles per hour.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4. 

80th anniversary of end of World War II commemorated at Pearl Harbor.  In a ceremony at Pearl Harbor, where Imperial Japan’s surprise Dec. 7, 1941, attack drew the United States into World War II, a crowd gathered Tuesday on the pier beside the battleship USS Missouri — the ship where Japanese diplomats signed the unconditional surrender that finally ended the war. Star-Advertiser.

Sustainable aviation fuel sales agreement signed for Hawaiian Airlines Osaka-Honolulu flights. Hawaiian Airlines announced it will be incorporating sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on flights between Osaka, Japan, and Honolulu, Hawai‘i under a sales agreement between parent company Alaska Air Group Inc., and Cosmo Oil Marketing Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Cosmo Energy Holdings Co., Ltd.  Maui Now.

Oahu

Bills aim to ease homeowner tax burden. Two measures meant to offer financial relief to island property owners burdened with high property taxes are scheduled for third and final readings by the Honolulu City Council today. Star-Advertiser.

Oʻahu is updating its climate plan ahead of 2030 state goals. The Honolulu Resilience Office is in the process of updating its climate plan. It will lay out actions that the City and County of Honolulu will take over the next five years to help the state meet its goal. Hawaii Public Radio.

JABSOM clinic marks 20 years of free health care for Oʻahu's houseless population. Clean clothes, a fresh shower, and routine medical check-ups await patients as they walk through the doors of an Iwilei health care clinic. But this particular clinic is dedicated solely to Oʻahu's unhoused population.  Hawaii Public Radio.

4 facing federal prison time for more than $1M tax fraud. Four people were convicted last week for their role in a conspiracy to file false tax returns and then use Hawaii real estate holdings, banks and trusts to launder more than $1 million from the federal government. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Qualifications for Public Works director could change. Under the current language, the individual must be a “registered professional.” The proposed amendment would remove this term and instead specify that candidates must have at least five years of experience in an administrative or managerial role, with at least two years in public works, construction or a related field. Tribune-Herald.

Feral Cat Battle Reaches Fever Pitch. A new county measure outlawing cat feeding on the Big Island is expected to become law this week, pitting feral cat advocates against politicians. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Police Department’s interim chief takes over command. The Hawaii County Police Department’s new interim chief has officially taken over command.Reed Mahuna replaced acting chief Ben Moszkowicz on Monday.  Hawaii News Now.

Resolution to acquire Honolulu Landing advances. The County Council on Tuesday advanced a resolution to proceed with the acquisition of Honolulu Landing in the Puna District, moving it to the full council for a vote. Tribune-Herald.

$1M grant buoys Hawaiʻi Island health clinic facing federal cuts. Kumukahi Health + Wellness started 40 years ago to serve people living with or affected by HIV. It now offers a range of services, including Med-Quest patient enrollment navigation, a sexual health clinic, and a syringe exchange program. Hawaii Public Radio.

Undeveloped beachfront parcel in Waikōloa Beach Resort returned to native Hawaiian descendants. 27.38-acres of the culturally significant coastline of ‘Anaeho‘omalu Kapalaoa in North Kona will now be permanently preserved, the Trust for Public Land announced on Tuesday. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. 

Maui

Maui Prep Academy hit with 2 suits on transgender policy. Two lawsuits were filed Tuesday in Maui Circuit Court against Maui Preparatory Academy related to its new school policy, which began in the 2025-26 school year, that transgender students would no longer be allowed to use restroom facilities, play on sports teams or room with students of the same gender. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Nonprofits Want To Help Maui Fire Victims — If They Can Reach Them. Limited communications and continued grief have made it more challenging for nonprofits to connect with survivors who could most benefit from their services. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Nāpali Coast: A ‘Biodiversity Hotspot,’ but with many endangered species to protect. The remote Nāpali Coast, a beautiful region of sheer sea cliffs and lush valleys on the northwestern shores of Kaua‘i, is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Hawaiian Islands – and on Earth. Kauai Now.

Pipe replacement, road repairs scheduled near highway in Kalāheo. Lane shifts are scheduled along a portion of Papalina Road in the vicinity of Kaumuali‘i Highway to complete pipe replacement and road repairs within the Kaua‘i County right of way. Kauai Now.

Honolulu rail inches toward downtown, Matson navigates shipping losses from China, COVID infects Hilo longterm care, jail facilities, UH football free on TV, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Phase 3 of Skyline Rail project breaks ground. Phase 3 of the $1.4 billion project will add six new stations and about three miles of elevated guideway from Middle Street to Civic Center.  Construction is expected to be complete by 2030. KHON2. HART press release. KITV4. 

HART to receive $112M state funding; the review before the reimbursement. Honolulu’s Skyline rail is a semi-autonomous entity of the City and County, but it does get funding from the state through general excise taxes as well as transit accommodation taxes. KITV4.

Matson navigates drop in Chinese business. Matson Inc. recently reported a 14.6% decline in cargo volume for its China service during the April-June quarter that included a rebound in mid-May after a 30% drop in April attributed to Trump tariff announcements. Star-Advertiser.

UH televising free football home games this season, ending pay-per-view. On Monday, UH and Spectrum Sports announced an agreement on a one-year deal in which the pay-per-view format of the past 22 years will be scrapped.  Star-Advertiser. Aloha State Daily.

The former Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement unveiled a new name, logo, and tagline as part of a broader rebranding initiative. The rebrand also introduces a new tagline: “Hawaiians Advancing Hawai‘i,” a reflection of the organization’s deep commitment to its homeland and people. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Why This Honolulu Housing Strategy Is Not A ‘Super Successful’ Program. A new state law requires counties to let homeowners build two additional housing units on eligible properties. Honolulu is struggling to persuade people to build just one. Civil Beat.

Honolulu legislation seeks to create a downtown business improvement district. The pandemic changed the workplace, and downtown is on the cusp of more change: new investment by local developers and a push to rebrand downtown as DOHO to revitalize the financial district for those who live and work in this hub.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Mayor Wants To Buy Wo Fat Building In Chinatown For Housing. Developers ran out of money to convert the landmark former restaurant into a hotel. Star-Advertiser.

City continues roadwork on Kapiolani Boulevard. The city Department of Design and Construction on Monday began installing striping and pavement markers along a roughly half-mile stretch of Kapiolani Boulevard, from Waiaka Road to Date Street. Star-Advertiser.

Water Has Been Leaking From This State Building For Over A Month. Community members near the Diamond Head Health Center have noticed a steady stream of water leaking from the property around the clock. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County planning commissions to consider household hennery bill. Bill 52 would permit residents in certain residential and mixed-use zones to raise hens and other female poultry for household egg production under specific regulations. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County seeks dismissal of claims against officers. Hawaii County civil attorneys are attempting to have the county and unnamed police officers removed as defendants in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by family members of a Holualoa woman who claim the officers are at least partially responsible for the woman’s death from a drug-and-alcohol overdose. Tribune-Herald.

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and agent accused of sabotaging $240M Hawaii real estate project. A Hawaii real estate investor and broker are suing Shohei Ohtani, claiming the Los Angeles Dodgers star and his agent got them fired from a $240 million luxury housing development on the Big Island’s coveted Hapuna Coast that they brought him in to endorse. Associated Press.

As COVID-19 infection rates rise across Hawaii, Hilo Medical Center’s long-term care facility reported an outbreak among its residents and staff. A total of 13 people at the center tested positive for the coronavirus in the past week. The spike in infections at the care home comes after another outbreak among Hilo inmates that canceled visitation this past weekend at a reintegration facility in Panaewa.  Hawaii News Now.

BISAC’s behavioral health services earn highest level of accreditation. Big Island Substance Abuse Council earns accreditation for comprehensive behavioral health services, marking over 25 years of national recognition. Big Island Now.

Hilo-based youth circus club teaches LGBTQ+ teens aerial tricks and techniques. Last week was the grand opening of Aerial Arts Hawaiʻi's Queer Youth Circus Club. It’s a free social club that teaches self-identifying LGBTQ+ youth circus arts while connecting them with like-minded peers and instructors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Two-lined spittlebug continues to devastate Hawaiʻi Island ranches. The two-lined spittlebug has been a growing problem for ranchers on Hawaiʻi Island over the last couple years — and experts warn it’s also a threat for the whole community. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Council to focus on budget adjustments, discounted water rates and Honuaʻula this week. The Maui County Council will meet Tuesday, Aug. 12 at 9 a.m. to consider the mayor’s requests to amend the fiscal year 2026 budget for the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney and Department of Water Supply a bill to establish discounted water rates for preservation and restoration of native species habitats. Maui Now.

Two years After Wildfire, Maui Homeowners Face A New Threat: Foreclosure. A local nonprofit, Hawaiʻi Community Lending, surveyed 257 Lahaina homeowners with mortgages affected by the fire and found their average balance was $696,983, more than twice the national average.  Civil Beat.

Guide To Keeping And Rebuilding Homes In The Wake Of 2023 Maui Wildfires. Two years after the devastating 2023 wildfires, homeowners may be facing the prospect of repaying mortgage loans previously in forbearance. Civil Beat.

Lahaina meeting to cover sewer project, housing programs, more. Maui County will host a Lahaina community meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Lahaina Intermediate School cafeteria. Maui News.

Maui County finance department recognized for ‘excellence in financial reporting.  The Maui County Department of Finance Accounts Division was recently recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for excellence in financial reporting. Maui News.

Restaurant at historic Kula Lodge in Upcountry Maui burns. Maui Fire Department arrived Monday at 3:33 a.m.  to find the restaurant at 15200 Haleakala Highway engulfed in flames. They had the fire under control at about 5:30 a.m. Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. 

Kauai

Governor says Kauai is strong. Gov. Josh Green, MD, had the opportunity for an in-person meeting with more than 300 people who attended the 27th Annual Governor’s Luncheon hosted by the Kauai Chamber of Commerce and Southwest Airlines at the Koloa Landing Resort. Garden Island.

East Kauaʻi community to discuss the future of transportation tonight. Community members are invited to participate in two more focused public workshops for the East Kauaʻi Community and Circulation Plan. Kauai Now.

Repaving project on Wawae Road will limit access to homes next week. Residents living off Wawae Road are asked to prepare for a repaving project that will fully close the road during the day next week in Lāwaʻi. Kauai Now.

COVID cases ticking upward, environmental lawyers, Trump officials meet in court over commercial fishing rules, Maui study finds lingering wildfire trauma, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID-19 cases in Hawaii still on upward trend this summer. The Hawaii Department of Health on Wednesday reported a statewide test positivity rate of 16.1% on its COVID dashboard, up from 14.3% last week. The prior week, it was at 12.0%. Ideally, the rate would be much lower — below 5.0% — which is where it was during most of this year. Star-Advertiser.

Health Department offering free courses on medical cannabis for healthcare providers. The state Department of Health is offering free courses to a limited number of licensed healthcare providers on the clinical application of medical cannabis. This comes after the governor signed a new law giving more leeway for physicians sand some nurses to decide which patients could benefit from the drug. Twenty-five years after Hawaii legalized medical marijuana, the state says 30,000 patients are currently registered to buy the drug from one of 24 regulated dispensary locations statewide. Hawaii News Now.

EPA plans to claw back $62M awarded to Hawaiʻi for solar projects. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is planning to end a major source of funding for state-level solar programs, which could jeopardize several community solar projects in Hawaiʻi. The EPA's "Solar for All" program has awarded $7 billion in federal grants to help low- and moderate-income households access solar. Hawaii Public Radio.

Environmental lawyers, Trump officials meet in court over fishing in Pacific monument. President Donald Trump issued a proclamation in April to open the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument  to commercial fishing but environmental lawyers in a legal battle to stop the fishing say a formal process, which includes public hearings, is required first. Hawaii Public Radio.

HIDOE names new deputy superintendent for operations, assistant superintendent. The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education has appointed two senior leaders to strengthen operations and student services across the public school system. Maui Now.

Tropical Storm Henriette Update. Tropical Storm Henriette is 1,555 miles east of Hilo, and moving west at 16 mph. The cyclone is expected to take a northward turn in the next couple of days, keeping the center well to the north of the Hawaiian islands. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Media access to HPD radio channels receives pushback. The Council voted 8-1, with Val Okimoto dissenting, to advance Bill 46 on its second of three readings. Routine radio communications by Honolulu police and firefighters became off-limits to news organizations and the general public in 2022 when a $15 million system that encrypts the frequencies used by nine city departments went into effect. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Union Members Want Next Chief To Come From Within HPD. Union members who responded to a survey conducted in July also stressed they want someone with patrol experience who will focus on staffing the front line. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Haleiwa housing project stalls after lawmakers defer action on key measure. More than 800 people submitted testimony against Bill 37, which would rezone some land in Haleiwa from agricultural to urban.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4. 

Oahu housing market shows softening in July. Single-family home sales in July were down 7.4% at 249 sales compared with 269 a year ago, while condo sales held steady at 389, according to a report released Wednesday from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Military explains why roaring fighter jets woke residents at 3 a.m. U.S. Air Force officials confirmed several fighter jets took off from Hickam Air Force Base on Monday and Tuesday for a department-level training exercise. Hawaii News Now.

Man, ex-wife sentenced in $29M ‘Semisub’ scam. The 72-year-old man who teamed with his then-wife to con investors out of more than $29 million for a prototype tour ship before trying to sail away from prosecution was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor vetoes bill regarding roadside soliciting. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda announced Wednesday that he has vetoed County Council Bill 59 on July 31, a rare move that challenges a recently passed ordinance regulating pedestrian behavior near roadways. Tribune-Herald.

Bill banning the feeding of feral animals on county property passes. The Hawaii County Council, by a vote of 6-2 with one absent, on Wednesday approved the second and final reading of a measure that would ban the feeding of feral or stray animals such as cats and pigs on county property. Tribune-Herald.

North Kohala Told To Use Water For “Essential Needs Only”.  With only one working well serving the area, high water usage is causing customers to have no water or low water pressure. Big Island Video News.

Episode 30 pau after nearly 12 hours of lava fountains, flows, including from new fissure in south Halemaʻumaʻu. After almost 12 hours of continuous lava fountaining — that included a new fissure vent that transected the south wall of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater and erupted for about 3 hours and 20 minutes early this morning — Episode 30 of the ongoing episodic eruption in southern part of Kaluapele, the summit caldera, at Kīlauea volcano confined within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island ended abruptly at 12:55 p.m. Wednesday. Big Island Now.

Maui

By the numbers: Maui recovery inches forward 2 years after fires. Two years after the wildfires that devastated Lahaina and parts of Kula, Maui’s recovery story is still being written—one of slow progress, uneven outcomes and resilience being tested. Maui Now.

Maui fires triggered suicides, overdose deaths. Suicides and overdose deaths skyrocketed 97% on Maui immediately after the August 2023 wildfires and simultaneously increased 46% statewide, presumably from survivors who moved away from Maui or possibly from grieving family and friends with Maui roots, according to a study published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Commercial rebuilds lag in the heart of Lahaina. While new construction dots the landscape across Lahaina, the area along Front Street remains a long way from recovery from the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfire. Maui News.

Lahaina Fire Survivors Make A Home Without A House. Kuhua Camp had the highest concentration of wildfire deaths. The plight of this homeowner shows the challenges of rebuilding two years after the blaze. Civil Beat.

Rebuilding a burned Kula home brings both construction challenges and mixed emotions. More than 20 homes burned two years ago in Kula. According to Maui County, four have been rebuilt so far. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau looks to rebuild tourism and boost Maui's economy. This past legislative session, lawmakers set aside $6 million to market Maui as a tourism destination. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kauai Police Department, dignitaries break ground for a new KPAL complex. The Kauai Police Department, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami, and other dignitaries on Wednesday broke ground on the construction of a new Kauai Police Activities League Sports Complex adjacent to the Vidinha Stadium, where renovation work is being carried out. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi collects 3,000 pounds of food during Saturday drive, but falls short of last year’s donations. Volunteers were stationed at eight sites across Kauaʻi on Saturday, collecting in six hours a combined 3,000 pounds of non-perishable food, with a majority of it rice, and monetary donations. Kauai Now.

Task force to investigate permit delays, voter overcount found in 2024 Kauai election, COVID cases rise, $400M housing aid coming to Maui wildfire survivors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Task force created to investigate permitting delays statewide. Act 133 directs the state House of Representatives to work with a group of state and county officials to investigate and recommend action that the Legislature can take to address permitting delays. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii health officials urge vigilance as COVID cases rise again.  The Hawaii Department of Health today reported the statewide test positivity rate — or percentage of all tests that are positive — at 12.4% as of Saturday, up from 10.9% the previous week.  Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  KITV4.

Cuts to SNAP could deepen food insecurity in Hawaii. A new report by the Urban Institute finds that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits failed to cover the cost of a modestly priced meal in 99% of U.S. counties last year — and new federal legislation may widen the gap. Star-Advertiser.

Local food production advocates seek funding source for farmers after USDA cuts. Advocates for food production are looking for alternate funding sources for farmers after the federal government slashed $400 million from the nationwide Regional Food Business Centers program. Hawaii Public Radio.

Drastic changes could be coming to Hawaii's cruise industry. The State Department of Transportation plan reduces 50% of state greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. But to reach those goals it recommends cutting in half the number of cruise ships making calls in the islands. With a 75% reduction by the year 2035. KITV4.

Search Begins For New Kamehameha Schools Trustee. Trustees earn up to $186,000. Kamehameha Schools is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on its five-member board of trustees that controls the assets of one of the largest charitable trusts in the United States. Applications are due Sept. 1. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Farming Dispute On North Shore Highlights Zoning Challenges. Hawaiʻi needs more locally grown food, but plans for a vertical farm and aquaculture operation near Sunset Beach Park violate zoning rules and threaten the community character, critics say. Civil Beat.

Allegations of unsafe staffing triggers an ultimatum for Hawaii’s largest hospital. The Hawaii Nurses Association (HNA) says Queens Medical Center has not enforced nurse to patient ratios outlined in HNA’s new contract which was ratified in January. Hawaii News Now.

From supplies to haircuts, nonprofit helps families get back-to-school ready in Ewa Beach. The nonprofit Child & Family Service is welcoming families to its Ewa Beach office at 91-1841 Ft. Weaver Rd. this Saturday, July 26, from 2 to 6 p.m. Students in grades 6-12 can receive school supplies, including Sprayground backbacks (while supplies last), as well as physical exams by Physical Solutions and haircuts by Superior Blendz Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

 Falls of Clyde’s voyage has come to an end. A chapter in Hawaii’s maritime history is coming to a close. Shipwright LLC have started removing the 146-year-old Falls of Clyde. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

2 women found dead under Hilo banyan prompts scrutiny of other trees. Mayor Kimo Alameda said he has started surveying banyan trees across Hawaiʻi Island. He said the trees can act as hiding places, so some people live in them. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Lawsuit Alleges Mentally Disabled Inmate Was Preyed Upon. Drake Terlep was reportedly afraid to leave his cell in the Hilo jail, and finally killed himself. Civil Beat.

Maui

Wildfire survivors can tap into nearly $400M in aid. Maui County plans to begin accepting applications on Aug. 11 from low- and moderate-income households to replace housing lost in the disaster, which county officials say destroyed about 5,500 residences including rental apartments. Star-Advertiser.

County completes Amala Place cleanup with 16 cars towed, 13 tons of trash removed. A two-day dispersal of more than 40 homeless people and the subsequent cleanup of Amala Place was completed Saturday morning with 16 vehicles towed and 13 tons of trash removed, according to Maui County officials. Maui News.

New fire station coming to Olowalu. The West Maui Improvement Foundation announced that the Olowalu fire station project has raised enough money to be built. KHON2.

Mayor Bissen announces return of Maui County Fair with rides Oct. 2-5. The 98th Maui County Fair is now being supported by the County of Maui and will be held at War Memorial Special Events Complex. The fair did not continue after 2019 due to financial and other challenges. Maui Now. Maui News. 

Kauai

Investigation Finds Vote Discrepancies In 2024 Kauaʻi Election. A state Elections Commission subcommittee found evidence that the state counted hundreds more ballots than were cast on Kauaʻi. Civil Beat.

Brown water advisory issued for two bays on Kaua‘i. According to a press release from the Hawai‘i Department of Health, the advisories are for Wailua Bay and Hanalei Bay, which is 26 miles north.  Kauai Now.

Green heads to Washington to tout vaccinations, housing affordability worsens, Honolulu may tap into transient accommodations tax to defray sewer costs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green heading to D.C. to urge vaccinations. Green will board a coach seat for a red-eye flight to Washington, D.C., on Monday to testify in support of vaccinations after Hawaii’s 90% COVID-era vaccine rate contributed to the lowest COVID mortality rate in the country. Star-Advertiser.

DOE Looks To Expand Leadership Team Amid Bus Shortages And Facility Woes. State education leaders say creating a new assistant superintendent position could improve operations, but the department is close to doubling the number of top leadership posts since 2012. Civil Beat.

Housing affordability continues to elude many in Hawaii. It took more income to afford the median rent for a place to live or to buy a median-priced single-family house in 2024, according to the study published Wednesday by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Hawaii home prices are three times the national median and the state also has the nation's highest rate of homeless population, according to the study.  Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Maui Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaiʻi will not meet its climate goals without significant transportation changes. The latest state greenhouse gas report, prepared by the state Department of Health, concludes that based on emission data from 2022, the state is off-track on two important goals: slashing emissions in half by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, and eliminating emissions entirely by 2045. Hawaii Public Radio.

Senators back bill to boost reimbursements for farmer and rancher transportation costs. US Sens. Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaiʻi) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) reintroduced legislation to increase funding for the US Department of Agriculture’s Reimbursement Transportation Cost Payment program. The program reimburses farmers and ranchers in Hawaiʻi, Alaska and other insular areas for transportation costs of supplies like feed, fertilizer and equipment parts. Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Council advances bill to offset sewer fee hike.  The Council voted unanimously Wednesday to pass Bill 43, meant to redirect a portion of the 3% visitor-­generated Oahu transient accommodations tax, which in part is earmarked for Honolulu’s rail project, to the city’s sewer fund. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Honolulu Approves Last Big Covid Hazard Payments For City Workers. After years of delays, the City Council signed off on a $41 million deal with the state’s largest union after previously reaching agreements with two other unions. Civil Beat.

Honolulu To Pay $2.1 Million To End Wrongful Arrest Lawsuit. The Honolulu City Council has agreed to pay $2.1 million to settle a lawsuit brought by a man who spent nearly three years in jail awaiting trial for drug trafficking charges — despite never having been found in possession of drugs or drug money.  Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu parks department updates community garden rules. For the first time in 40 years, new rules are now in place for Honolulu’s community gardening program, which currently has a 300-person waitlist. Hawaii News Now.

Tariff uncertainty is affecting these Chinatown small business owners. Chu Lan Shubert-Kwock, the founder and president of the Chinatown Business & Community Association,  said Chinatown business owners are worried that they won't have something to sell in the next few months.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Kai roads reopen after projectile devices defused. Two possibly live M49A2 mortar bombs were found and turned in by a member of the public. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Kona coffee fields have become a target for ICE. Kona coffee retails for more than $30 for an 8-ounce bag. With a devoted following around the world, the distinct coffee has been a point of pride for the Big Island, and for the thousands of immigrants from Latin America who for decades have handpicked the beans in the Kona fields. Now the fate of many of those immigrant workers is uncertain, as is the future of the island’s coffee industry. New York Times.

Budget bill contains $2.5M for Puna Alternate Route Study.  The 2023 budget previously allocated $1 million in state funds for such a study, but required a $500,000 match by Hawaii County. Those state funds unexpectedly lapsed in mid-2024. Tribune-Herald.

Case involving Puna house snafu settled. A settlement has been reached in the case of a house built on the wrong lot in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Tribune-Herald.

Last Two Phases of Māmalahoa Highway Repaving Project Starts May 19. Resurfacing will be completed from Kalamauka Road to Ha‘awina Street, as well as from Palani Road to Kamalani Street, by the end of the year. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Decrease in visitor tax rate sought as fear of recession looms. Maui County Council chair Alice Lee said she hopes to roll back the council’s proposed property tax rate hikes for the visitor industry because there’s sufficient funding for future projects and a likelihood of a recession. The proposed reduction would reduce the estimated real property tax revenues for the visitor industry by $14.5 million.  Maui News.

Lahaina Wildfire Debris Heading To Final Central Maui Site In June. Officials say they have worked to minimize traffic and address health concerns. But a December deadline for removal looms large. Civil Beat.

Online briefing for Lahaina owner-occupant homeowners as no-cost property surveys move ahead. Lahaina owner-occupant homeowners are encouraged to register now for an online briefing on how to receive property surveys through the Lahaina Homeowner Recovery Program. Maui Now.

Prosecutors say Maui doctor took powerful drug from hospital. Just three days after anesthesiologist, Gerhardt Konig, allegedly tried to kill his wife, Arielle, in March by pushing her off an Oahu cliff and injecting her with needles, court document say she contacted Honolulu police after finding the defendant’s Nike fanny pack on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi councilmembers propose diverting money from stalled projects. Kauaʻi councilmembers have proposed some budget changes that divert money from projects that have stalled or don't have solid plans going forward. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kilauea erupts, Eddie surf competition draws 50k, most state residents not vaccinated against COVID, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea volcano erupting again at Halemaumau Crater, putting on ‘dynamic’ show. Kilauea began erupting again at approximately 2:30 a.m. Monday at the base of Halemaumau Crater within the summit caldera. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii residents getting COVID vaccines are now the minority. After five years of battling the virus, considerably fewer people across the U.S. and Hawaii are rushing to get the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines, which have been available since September at local pharmacies and doctor’s offices. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Ethics Commission plans penalty system akin to traffic fines. The Hawaii Ethics Commission plans to create a uniform fine schedule — similar to standardized traffic fines — and voted unanimously Wednesday to have a bill introduced in the next legislative session that would speed up the issuance of fines, which now takes up to six months. Star-Advertiser.

How Hawaiʻi could prepare for financial impacts of second Trump term. Working families in Hawaiʻi could end up paying more in taxes if President-elect Donald Trump implements some of his proposed policies, but analysts say there’s a way the state can help. Hawaii Public Radio.

Department of Taxation adjusts for Hawaiʻi tax cuts with new employer withholding tables. The Hawai‘i Department of Taxation has updated its income tax withholding tables to reflect upcoming changes in a new state law that makes incremental adjustments to the standard deduction amount and income tax brackets beginning tax year 2024, through tax year 2031. Kauai Now.

A new way to travel between islands? State agencies show interest in proposed aircraft The Hawaii Seaglider Initiative is a coalition of local stakeholders advocating for the adoption of seagliders — a proposed electric-powered vehicle that flies low above the water — as an interisland transportation option. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Oahu

‘The Eddie’ surf competition stokes North Shore’s economy. The North Shore economy is projected to ride high during its winter wave season, which kicked off Sunday with the 2024 Eddie Aikau Invitational Big Wave Contest at Waimea — a massive event that Honolulu police estimated drew about 50,000 attendees. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii surfer Landon McNamara wins the 2024 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. Landon McNamara has won the 2024 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

EPA says military violated Red Hill consent decree, issues fine. The Environmental Protection Agency says the military violated a federal consent decree when officials chose not to attend a Dec. 12 public meeting with the Red Hill Community Representation Initiative. Star-Advertiser.

City reports criteria for Honolulu Ocean Safety commissioners. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi will appoint all five members to the inaugural commission, which will oversee the Department of Ocean Safety. The Honolulu City Council will confirm the appointees. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu YMCA Tenants Won’t Be Uprooted Thanks To The State. The tenants had been at risk of losing their homes after the Central Y said it could no longer afford to subsidize their rents. Civil Beat.

Latest renderings of new Aloha Stadium envision entertainment wonderland. The latest renderings for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District project were shown Thursday to the Aloha Stadium Authority by representatives of development group Aloha Halawa District Partners. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County’s plan to vacate HBMC morgue moves ahead. Hawaii County is making progress toward relieving the severely overcrowded Hilo Benioff Medical Center’s morgue of what are referred to as “HPD bodies,” according to Hawaii Police Department Chief Ben Moszkowicz. Tribune-Herald.

Māhukona Beach Park To Close For Pavilion Demolition. Māhukona Beach Park will be closed in January, as the County of Hawaiʻi begins a project to demolish the dilapidated pavilion and restrooms. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiʻi County invests in innovative collaborations with Puna Strong grants. Thirteen organizations working toward community resilience and disaster readiness in Puna were awarded a total of $586,917 in grants by the County of Hawaiʻi. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Fire Victims Jobs Program At Risk After Nonprofit Budget Troubles. The federally funded initiative run by Maui Economic Opportunity employed hundreds and was to last two years. The nonprofit's CEO announced this month that it would end early. Civil Beat.

A Maui program kept Lahaina families together by paying households to take in fire survivors. Estimates say up to one-third of those displaced by the Maui fires wound up in the homes of friends and family in the weeks after the disaster. Associated Press.

Hawaiʻi’s Physician Shortage Hits Maui Hardest. Doctors were scarce before the Lahaina fire, which burned medical facilities, displaced health care workers and patients and heightened financial stress. Civil Beat.

Maui County’s Office of Recovery Administrator focuses on safety, health of community. John Smith said he hopes that in his new position as Maui County’s Office of Recovery Administrator, he can provide clarity and clear direction, both internally and externally.  Maui News.

Kauai

Today is last day for free dental clinic. Today is the last day of a free dental clinic, but organizer Dr. Janie Yoo of the Kauai Eye Institute announced a free vision screening event on Thursday. Garden Island.

State tax collections to take $125M hit while construction buoys economy, insurance costs cause condo sale slump, Health Department announces updated COVID vaccine availability, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Council On Revenues Projects Hawaii Tax Collections Will Be $125 M Less Than Expected. The forecast also said Hawaii is gradually recovering from the tourism slump triggered by last year's Maui wildfires, while the construction industry is booming. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii student debt relief program high on applicants but low on funds. A popular $30 million state program to pay off student loans to keep health care workers in Hawaii has run low on money, leaving organizers searching for new funding. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Health Department recommends updated COVID, flu, RSV vaccines. The Hawaii Department of Health is recommending residents get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines that are now available. On Aug. 22, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer and Moderna, which target the KP.2 variant that was circulating earlier this year. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.

Georgette Deemer dies at 71. She dedicated four decades to the state of Hawaii, serving in various roles in both the City & County and state government. KHON2.

Oahu

Hawai‘i’s Condo Insurance Crisis Is Now Hurting Sales. Sales fell 48% in Waikīkī and 38% in Makiki-Mō‘ili‘ili in June. Both neighborhoods have lots of underinsured, older condo buildings. Hawaii Business magazine.

City halfway through sweeping overhaul of Chinatown security camera system. Thirty of the 60 high-resolution cameras have been installed so far. The estimated cost for the full system is $980,000, with $450,000 coming from federal, state and local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Council wheels out e-bike measures. Two pieces of legislation meant to provide clearer safety standards and more regulation on the use of fast-moving electric bicycles on Oahu’s public roadways and sidewalks and in parks, rolled out of Honolulu Hale this week. Star-Advertiser.

Talks between nurses’ union, Kapi‘olani resume, but no deal reached. After another round of negotiations Thursday, the nurses’ union and management at the state’s largest hospital for women and children in Hawaii still have no agreed-upon contract. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Residents worry about concrete solutions for Wailupe Stream. Concerns over the future of Wailupe Stream which fishpond experts consider the last living major stream in East Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

HHS, HPD round up aggressive, stray dogs on bike path. Reports of loose and dangerous dogs on the Pearl Harbor bike path prompted response from the police department and humane society. KHON2. KITV4.

Waianae’s Keamo family pleaded for help with ‘Silva dome’ in 2021. The Keamo family, who lost three members in their neighbor’s violent rampage along Waianae Valley Road on Saturday night, had pleaded with state officials in 2021 to address their concerns about illegal and dangerous activity associated with the man’s nearby, unpermitted party venue business. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Standing granted for 3rd petitioner opposed to controversial proposed Punalu‘u development. The Hawai‘i County Windward Planning Commission on Thursday granted standing to a third organization for a contested case hearing involving a proposed controversial $350 million residential and commercial community project adjacent to a popular Ka‘ū beach park. Big Island Now.

Hamakua Energy plans to convert power plant to 100% renewable fuels. A Honokaa power plant that provides about a third of the electrical power for the island is planning an upgrade. Tribune-Herald.

General Plan Meetings Set For September, October. Multiple community meetings and an online webinar will take place this month. The plan goes before the Windward and Leeward Planning Commissions in November. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Controversial Monster Home Goes On Sale For $13 Million In West Maui. A real estate listing for the compound that triggered years of bitter feuds with neighbors comes with a warning: "Buyer to do their own Due Diligence." Civil Beat.

Housing and Land Use Committee meeting canceled due to technical issues. Housing and Land Use Committee Chair Tasha Kama announced that Thursday's committee meeting was canceled because automated email notifications were not sent when the meeting agenda was posted. Maui Now.

Emergency permits in motion to remove Baldwin Beach Park pavilion. The County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation announced it has applied for emergency Shoreline Management Area (SMA) permits to remove the Baldwin Beach Park pavilion, which has been damaged over time by high surf and rising sea levels. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Norovirus confirmed as cause of illness for campers on popular Kaua‘i trail. The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health laboratory results confirmed norovirus as the cause of illness reported by numerous campers at the Kalalau Section of the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kaua‘i. Kauai Now.

Resurfacing work on roadway scheduled in Kapa‘a. A portion of Ulu Street in Kapa‘a will be closed for resurfacing work starting on Sept. 9. The road will be closed till Sept. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. One lane will remain open to accommodate alternating traffic in both directions. Kauai Now.

Maui fire recovery, pandemic hazard pay strain state budget, Green leads delegation to Japan, Blangiardi signs bill increasing grants to developers of affordable housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor: Hawaii Can Pay The Bills For Maui Fire Recovery, Hazard Pay And More. The administration has not yet released a budget plan for covering those costs, but the governor says it can be done without tapping into the rainy day fund. Civil Beat.

Maui judge agrees to ask state Supreme Court about barriers to $4B wildfire settlement. Judge Peter Cahill on Maui agreed Friday to ask the state high court questions about how insurance companies can go about recouping money paid to policyholders. Associated Press.

Disaster insurance drove billions in revenue for companies. Hawaii homeowners and businesses have purchased nearly $38 billion in disaster insurance over the last 20 years, generating more than $23 billion in net income for insurance companies and further driving Gov. Josh Green to insist that insurers be barred from suing the entities responsible for last year’s Maui wildfires, including the state. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Transportation Department holds fate of Alaska-Hawaiian merger. Two weeks have passed since the proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines cleared what is traditionally considered its most significant regulatory hurdle. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Gov. Green travels to Japan to strengthen ties with sister cities. Green will also lead a delegation of local businesses for the Tokyo International Gift Show, meet with the US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, and will meet with leaders from Fukuoka, Ehime and Hiroshima prefectures. Maui Now.

In first interview since losing election, Hawaii's house speaker Scott Saiki discusses long career in politics. Video Only. Hawaii News Now.

UH developed, living coastal-protection system prepares for deployment. The University of Hawaiʻi has reached a milestone in the US Department of Defense funded project that aims to create a living breakwater system to protect coastlines from erosion and create ecosystems where resilient corals and other ocean life can grow and thrive. Maui Now.

Oahu

New Honolulu law aims to spur affordable rental construction. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 3 to increase post-construction grant amounts for privately financed rental housing projects, deemed a key incentive for developers trying to make projects financially feasible, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Board to review CEO’s contract on Friday, HART says. The next employment agreement for Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s executive director and CEO, Lori Kahikina, is set for possible approval later this week. Star-Advertiser.

City unveils plans to alter Oahu’s livable landscape to match population growth. Pearl City residents got to see the city’s ambitious plan to reshape their neighborhood. It includes replacing rundown buildings with new high-rises over the next 16 years. Hawaii News Now.

A Wave Of Westside Shootings Has People Saying ‘Enough Is Enough.’ But What More Can Be Done? Honolulu police promised to step up officer patrols in the area, where residents have long felt neglected by city services.  Neighbors’ complaint about speeding cars set off Waianae man’s deadly rampage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Kapi‘olani Medical Center nurses vote to go on strike again. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association, which represents 600 Kapi‘olani nurses, said Sunday night that its members voted by an overwhelming majority to give the union the green light to call for a walkout if a contract cannot be reached with Hawaii Pacific Health, which operates Kapi‘olani. Star-Advertiser.

Assets School is granted $1.25 million for tuition aid. Assets School, the only K-12 school in Hawaii specializing in educating children who are gifted, dyslexic or have other language-­based learning differences, has received an anonymous $1.25 million donation to support tuition assistance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Gov. Green Fills Hawaii House of Representatives Vacancy. Matthias Kusch will represent Hamakua, Kaumana and parts of Hilo on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

Overnight Safe Space opens in Hilo. The Hilo Overnight Safe Space is a 25-bed outdoor tent at the Salvation Army’s facility downtown on Ponahawai Street.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Conservation groups say Hawaiʻi Supreme Court aquarium fishing ruling will hurt ecosystem.  The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on Wednesday approved the legality of an environmental review to allow limited aquarium fishing around Hawaiʻi Island, leading to concerns about opening up the industry throughout the West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area. Hawaii Public Radio.

State’s high court to hear arguments over release of new evidence in Dana Ireland murder case. The Hawaii Supreme Court has set Sept. 12 as the date to hear oral arguments in the legal battle over evidence in the high profile 1991 murder of Dana Ireland. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Council refers accessory dwelling bill to Housing and Land Use Committee. Maui County Council members referred to the Housing and Land Use Committee on Tuesday a bill stemming from a new state law that requires counties to change the way accessory dwellings are permitted on residential property. Maui Now.

Maui Is Fully Reopening 2 Lahaina Neighborhoods For First Time Since The Fires. The county says Wahikuli and Mala no longer present a safety or health risk to justify restricted access. Civil Beat.

Initiative works to keep Lahaina lands in local hands. The Lahaina Community Land Trust helps local residential property owners avoid selling their Lahaina land and buys  property from owners who are committed to sell and then buys the property to perpetually house local families. Star-Advertiser.

Storm rainfall brings little relief to Maui’s southside; drought conditions persist. Leslie Peterson, nursery manager of the South Maui Garden in Kihei, said the recent rainfall that hit Maui last week from storm system Gilma was nothing short of a blessing. Maui News.
 
Kauai

Kauai fishpond’s restoration is recognized. Scores of volunteers have been sweating and toiling in the mud the past five years to restore the Alakoko fishpond on Kauai, one of the last remaining ponds built by Native Hawaiians some 600 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Climate Advisory Team begins work, Maui official oversaw $1M in contracts to family members, fake email invites homeless people to camp out at Hawaii Island mayor's house, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Team has work cut out to make Hawaii more resilient to natural disasters.  Gov. Josh Green’s Climate Advisory Team, led by retired Alexander &Baldwin Inc. CEO Chris Benjamin, is about to move from information gathering to crafting solutions that initially will focus on a package of draft bills for the governor to submit for consideration in the upcoming legislative session that begins in January. Star-Advertiser.

Recent COVID data shows the virus is not stopping. According to the Hawaii State Department of Health, weekly data showed an 11% average positivity rate and 88 daily average cases statewide. KHON2.

Can Hawaiʻi keep up with the growing demand for solar panel recycling?  Michael Cooney, a professor at the Hawai‘i Natural Energy Institute, believes Hawaiʻi should enact a statewide stewardship program into law that can manage revenues, offset costs and handle the logistics of solar recycling.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Criminal case against former Maui lawmaker is dismissed.  Honolulu District Court judge Tuesday dismissed the 2023 criminal case against former Maui state Rep. Kaniela Ing, who pleaded no contest to not filing timely campaign spending reports. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Staffing Shortages Plus More Cases Are Causing Delays At The State Public Housing Agency. The Hawaii Public Housing Authority has reduced the amount of time it can spend meeting with Honolulu tenants in the low-income housing program. Civil Beat.

Deadly officer-involved shooting in Waianae leaves man dead, 3 seriously injured. A man has died, and three adults are in serious condition following an officer-involved shooting in Waianae Wednesday night, according to Honolulu Police officials. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Leihōkū Elementary gets new firebreak ahead of school year. A 1,000-foot firebreak has been cleared at Leihōkū Elementary in Waiʻanae to help with fire preparedness. Hawaii Public Radio.

Famous Amos cookies founder advocated for childhood literacy.  Wallace “Wally” Amos, 88, founder of Famous Amos cookies, died Tuesday in his Makiki home due to complications from dementia. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hawai‘i Island police investigate fake email inviting houseless individuals to camp out at mayor’s home. A police officer is guarding the home of Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth Wednesday after someone invited the island’s homeless community for a 5-day sleepover. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Don’t Feed The Animals At The Zoo, Hawaiʻi County Says. Items found in the animal enclosures at the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens present serious risks to the animals, officials say. Big Island Video News. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Maui

A Maui County Appointee Oversaw Grants To Nonprofits Tied To Her Family Members. Two nonprofits with family ties to Luana Mahi, an economic development director for Maui Mayor Richard Bissen, won more than $1 million in county grants overseen by Mahi since she was appointed in 2023. Civil Beat.

Maui County Council approves Mayor Bissen appointees for recovery roles. Council voted 9-0 during its regular meeting to adopt resolutions recommending approval of Mayor Richard Bissen’s three appointees. Maui News.

Some sound off against mound of rocks they say is blocking off a Maui beach. Criticism is mounting on Maui over a mound of rocks reportedly stacked along the shore near a seaside home in Sprecklesville, with some raising concerns over public beach access in an area that is already hard to get to. KITV4.

New playground dedicated at King Kamehameha III temporary site in West Maui. The students lost their place to play last year when a wildfire destroyed their Front Street campus. Maui Now.

Kauai

New research sheds light on relationships between plants and insects in Kaua‘i forests. The study took place in 40 forests including ʻŌhiʻa-dominated native forests on both the Big Island and Kaua‘i.  Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi County proclaims August 14 ‘Tatiana Weston-Webb Day’.  Olympic surfer Tatiana Weston Webb was honored by the County of Kauaʻi in a ceremony at the Lihuʻe Civic Center on Wednesday morning, when Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami proclaimed Aug. 14 Tatiana Weston-Webb Day. Kauai Now. Garden Island.