State turns to wildfire prevention, Chinese disinformation campaign fueling Maui fire rumors, Kilauea volcano draws crowds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Needs To Build Hundreds More Miles Of Firebreaks To Protect Against Wildfire. Fire officials and landowners have known for years about gaps in Hawaii's firebreaks and fuelbreaks. The problem boils down to money and cooperation. Civil Beat.

How invasive grasses could have contributed to the magnitude of Maui's fires. As Lāhainā’s sugar cane industry ended in the late 20th century, thousands of acres of unmanaged land made it home for invasive species, according to Lissa Strohecker, the outreach and education specialist at the Maui Invasive Species Committee. Hawaii Public Radio.

Mistrust on cause of Maui fire fueled by Chinese disinformation. Social media disinformation that is playing a major role in mistrust among some Lahaina fire survivors was stoked by China — including a claim that the fire started from secret government testing of a “weather weapon.” Star-Advertiser. New York Times.

Experts review complaints of unauthorized attorneys soliciting employment after Maui wildfires. Ads have appeared on TV, radio and social media. But officials are cautioning survivors to be wary of legal fraud, and those who would take advantage of them when they are most vulnerable. Hawaii Public Radio.

Emergency action plans are critical to disaster response, experts say. Where was Maui’s? While both state and county officials have refused to confirm whether or not Maui had an emergency action plan in place to help steer its response during the disaster, HNN Investigates was able to sit down with the head of Oahu’s Emergency Management Agency to get a better understanding of what the document might contain — and why it’s so vital. Hawaii News Now.

Millions of dollars have poured in to help Maui fire victims. Where has the money gone so far? The biggest pot of donations is over $110 million in the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. Over four weeks later, they’ve given out nearly $19 million to non-profits. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Utility Regulators Could Be The Next To Investigate Maui Fires. But the Public Utilities Commission so far is staying out of it, saying it doesn't want to duplicate other efforts. Civil Beat.

Amemiya to lead Green’s sports task force.  Keith Amemiya, former Honolulu mayoral candidate and prior head of the Hawai‘i High School Athletic Association, has been appointed by Gov. Josh Green as chair of Green’s Sports Task Force. Star-Advertiser.

Arizona Prosecutors Will Try Again To Get Death Penalty For Hawaii Inmate. A Hawaii prison gang member who murdered another inmate in an Arizona prison cell in 2010 will once again face the possibility of the death penalty. Civil Beat.

Hawai'i DOH Says New Covid-19 Vaccine coming to Hawaii mid-September. Ronald Balajadia, the Immunization Branch Chief at the Hawai’i Department of Health said it's important to get the vaccine because COVID is not going away. KITV4.

Oahu

Popular UH law instructor banned from campus amid racial bias case against school. A popular instructor at the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law is asking a federal judge to intervene in a civil battle so he can return to in-person teaching. Ken Lawson is accusing university officials of violating his right to free speech. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kilauea continues to erupt, vog returns to west side of Hawaii Island. The state Department of Health reported that air quality levels were elevated at its Ocean View and Pahala air quality monitoring stations. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2

Trace Amount Of TCP Detected In Mountain View Water System. Trace amounts of a contaminant associated with pineapple cultivation have been detected in the ‘Ōla‘a – Mountain View water system, although health officials say the water system is in compliance with the state drinking water standards. Big Island Video News. Maui News.

Scott Pauli named Executive Director for the Island of Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau. In his role, Pauli will oversee the Island of Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau’s destination marketing in the United States – and support international marketing partners in Canada, Japan, South Korea, China and Oceania – as contracted by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority and through collaborative efforts with island partners, government entities, and various sectors within the hospitality, group market and related industries. Big Island Now.

Maui

DOH releases preliminary, unvalidated data from Maui air sampling following wildfires. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health received access Monday to preliminary, unvalidated data of baseline air sampling conducted by the US Environmental Protection Agency in Lahaina and Upcountry Maui.  Maui Now.

Trace amount of solvent found in Kula water system. The Hawaii Department of Health says a trace amount of toluene has for the first time been detected in water samples collected at the Upper Kula Treatment Plant on Maui. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui Prep becomes a shelter and distribution hub for fire survivors. The night the wildfires descended upon Lahaina, Maui Prep­aratory Academy was unexpectedly forced to become a makeshift shelter for nearly 700 frightened people, many of them blackened with soot or shivering from hours in the ocean to escape the flames. Star-Advertiser.

3 more Lahaina residents identified among 115 confirmed fatalities.  As of today, 60 of the 115 victims have been identified and their families have been notified. Eight more victims have been identified but their families have not been located or notified. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Kauai

Planning Department to hold workshops, survey on carbon reduction strategies. The County of Kaua‘i Planning Department will hold a series of virtual and in-person workshops in September on the Kaua‘i Climate Adaption and Action Plan, particularly to discuss carbon emissions reduction strategies with the community. Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi rain gauges show below average precipitation for month of August. According to the monthly precipitation summary from the National Weather Service forecast office in Honolulu, the Anahola gauge had its lowest August total since 2000, and Mount Waiʻaleʻale and Wainiha had their lowest August totals since 2005. Kauai Now.

Military releases video of Pearl Harbor-based destroyer’s close call with Chinese warship, older SNAP beneficiaries may be required to work, ACLU threatens lawsuit in Big Island homeless sweeps, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Video shows Pearl Harbor-based destroyer’s close call with Chinese warship. The United States military released video Monday of what it called an “unsafe” Chinese maneuver in the Taiwan Strait over the weekend, in which a Chinese navy ship cut sharply across the path of an American destroyer, forcing the U.S. vessel to slow to avoid a collision. Associated Press.

West Coast port trouble raises Hawaii shipping concerns. Dockworker labor difficulties flared up over the past few days at West Coast ports, but after largely settling down Monday, no major disruptions are expected for Hawaii ocean cargo deliveries. Star-Advertiser.

Will Hawaii residents see changes in SNAP requirements?...maybe. Thousands more Hawaii residents could be returning to jobs, as the federal government raises the work requirement for SNAP beneficiaries from age 49 to age 54. KITV4.

Oahu

Oahu homeowners might get $350 tax credit. The Honolulu City Council’s pending approval Wednesday of Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s proposed $3.41 billion operating budget for next fiscal year might include a $300 one-time tax credit the administration seeks to give to nearly 152,000 qualifying homeowners, a city official said. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s Why The Salary Commission Thinks Big Raises For The Honolulu Council Are Warranted. Commission members say the pay for elected officials should reflect the jobs they do. Civil Beat.

New Red Hill Defueling Deal With EPA Provides Little Accountability. Residents will get to talk with the military about emptying the tanks but are unlikely to see anyone punished for previous violations. Civil Beat.

People with disabilities give feedback about the accessibility of the Honolulu rail. The city is set to take control of the first segment of Honolulu’s rail system on Friday. Honolulu transportation officials hosted a couple dozen members of the disabled community last week to get feedback about accessibility on the train and its stations. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

‘Startling’ number of officer vacancies at HPD spur public safety concerns. The Honolulu Police Department is scrambling to hire hundreds of police officers, a critical shortage that a former deputy chief says could be impacting the agency’s ability to respond to crime. Hawaii News Now.

City to replace viewing platform atop Koko Crater Stairs. City officials today announced that a project to replace the dilapidated viewing platform at the summit of the popular Koko Crater Stairs hike begins this week. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Central Oahu Regional Park closure for maintenance planned. One of the largest city parks on the island will see closures this summer for the upkeep of its baseball and softball fields, the city announced recently. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

ACLU criticizes county, threatens legal action over homeless sweeps. The ACLU has issued a letter to Hawaii County demanding that it stop evicting homeless encampments without providing adequate shelter space — or face legal action. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Almost 4 of 5 fire dispatch recruits wash out. In the five-year period between 2018 and 2022, almost 80% — 14 of 18 — of the Hawaii Fire Department’s new dispatcher hires washed out, according to statistics provided by HFD. Tribune-Herald.

Relocation of Waikoloa cats ‘going well so far’: Rescue effort finds homes for dozens. Last month, volunteers with local rescue agencies Aloha Animal Oasis and Hawaii Animal Kuleana Alliance teamed up May 19 to May 22 to capture 64 cats from the Queens’ Marketplace in Waikoloa. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Condo Owners Are Trying To Buy Time In The Fight Against Rising Seas. A lengthy hearing Monday left County Council members with unanswered questions about using a new financing tool to replenish the beach. Civil Beat.

County close to buying Wailuku building as it aims to cut rent costs. Trask building latest in county’s efforts to rent less, own moreMaui County is close to purchasing another building in Wailuku town that it hopes will help cut down on the rent it pays for office space. Maui News.

MPD takes lead providing services to growing homeless camp. It started as an idea by Maui police officers. The Department of Transportation donated a decommissioned bus, and MPD used COVID funding to retrofit it to make it possible. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles Make Landfall On Kauai. The invasive insect has decimated the Pacific's coconut palm populations. Now it's been found on Kauai. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kaua‘i’s Nawiliwili Stream ranked nation’s most frequently polluted beach. Kalapaki Bay’s Nawiliwili Stream is the most consistently overpolluted beach tested by national environmental group Surfrider Foundation, according to the group’s annual report on water quality. Garden Island.

Affordable housing advocates want state to purchase Waipouli apartments. Affordable housing advocates are asking state and county lawmakers to purchase the Courtyards at Waipouli apartments and make a 60-year commitment to securing all 82 units as affordable housing. Garden Island.

Kapaʻa residents urge state to award low-income tax credits. Property owners are requesting funding through the HHFDC’s low-income housing tax credit application. The state agency has financed more than 200 units across four projects on Kauaʻi since last year, including 66 units on Rice Street, the 96-unit Uahi Ridge project, and two ʻEleʻele developments, including the 48-unit Kai Olino project and the Lima Ola project. Hawaii Public Radio.

Coral reef task force considers Hawaii experiences, Congress mulls new sea-based nuclear weapons, snorkeler recovering from Maui shark attack, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Heart-shaped coral in Hawaii ©2022 All Hawaii News

Coral reef task force panel details Hawaii leadership on marine resources management. A recent panel discussion during the 45th annual U.S. Coral Reef Task Force meeting focused on the leadership Hawaii is showing the country and the world in the face of mounting challenges to conserve ocean resources. West Hawaii Today.

Congress quietly debates new sea-based nuclear weapons amid China tension. The expansion of nuclear arms at sea could have implications for the Navy’s Hawaii-­based Pacific Fleet, and members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation sit on key committees that will determine the program’s future. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii could see bump in visitors from Japan as travel restrictions ease. The Japanese government on Wednesday is significantly easing border controls by eliminating requirements for pre- departure COVID-19 tests for travelers who have received at least three vaccine doses, and increasing daily entry caps to 50,000 from 20,000. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable housing in Hawaii: A top campaign issue where results are hard to assess. For  the governor, mayors, legislators and county council members after the Nov. 8 general election, moving the needle on an issue that has been a chronic problem for decades likely will be more than difficult and hard to measure. Star-Advertiser.

Lack Of Working Video Cameras At Hawaii Prisons Complicates Abuse Investigations. The Women’s Community Correctional Center has a long history of allegations of sexual misconduct, and broken cameras make it harder to prove cases. Civil Beat.

Kaiser mental health workers spend Labor Day walking picket lines as strike enters 2nd week. Kaiser’s mental health employees said they haven’t received pay raises to match the cost of living increases because — even though they organized four years ago — they don’t have a contract with Kaiser. But Kaiser said it offers attractive pay packages and has hired 28 clinicians in its mental health division since the beginning for 2021. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council grapples with strategies for shoreline communities amid climate change. A proposed measure, Bill 41, would increase the general 40-foot shoreline setback to between 60 and 130 feet, depending on the location and size of the property. Star-Advertiser.

City plans to overhaul Oahu’s land use ordinances. For the first time in nearly 30 years, the city is overhauling its land use ordinances, proposing large- scale changes that would affect agricultural land, wind farms, housing and short-term rentals. Star-Advertiser.

Protecting The Past By Managing The Future Of Ka‘ena Point. A new federal designation could bring more money for a place brimming with cultural and environmental resources. But some worry it could bring more people too. Civil Beat.

Hundreds of Red Hill water samples never tested for fuel. The Navy did confirm Dec. 2 that its Red Hill shaft had been contaminated with jet fuel. But there is little data from early on to indicate what specific chemicals may have been present at dangerous levels in the drinking water system. Star-Advertiser.

Shortened rail line means nearly quadruple jump in Kakaako boardings, exits. The end of the line at Halekauwila and South streets near the state Circuit Court building will be known as the Civic Center station, where bus traffic also will dramatically increase. Star-Advertiser.

Think twice before running a red: HDOT nears rollout of red light cameras. Drivers on Oahu might want to think twice before running a red light. Soon, they could be fined without ever being stopped by police. Hawaii News Now.

Paid parking in effect for nonshoppers at Ala Moana Center. Ala Moana Center has established paid parking zones to accommodate people who need parking for nearby business or leisure activities outside of the shopping center. Star-Advertiser.

Residents question curbside painting service that’s ‘City & County approved’. The city is investigating a puzzling painting job. The service offers to paint addresses on the curb so it can be spotted by first responders. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

‘Not quite across the finish line’: County and state work toward Paniolo extension. The extension of Paniolo Avenue all the way to Queen Kaahumanu Highway could become reality sooner than the much-vaunted extension of Saddle Road, but don’t hold your breath — neither will happen overnight. West Hawaii Today.

Commission OKs cell tower on Kaumana. The Windward Planning Commission on Thursday approved an application for a permit to build a 180-foot cell tower on the upper end of Kaumana Drive. Tribune-Herald.

Council committee to consider two West Hawaii mini-developments. Some 22 acres of agricultural land in West Hawaii could become mini-developments totaling 26 new house lots under two rezoning requests a County Council panel is set to consider Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Common ground: Josh Green and Duke Aiona vow to fast track reform at Hilo Medical Center. Two candidates vying to be Hawaii’s next governor tackle the issue of health care on the Big Island — specifically addressing the situation at one of the state’s most overcrowded and understaffed hospitals. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Snorkeler recovering from shark attack on Maui. A 51-year-old woman from France remains at Maui Memorial Medical Center after suffering serious injuries in a shark attack Saturday afternoon on Maui’s north shore. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Maui News. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

County mulls lower retirement age to help recruit police. Change would require update to state law; unfunded liabilities stand in the way. A proposal to eliminate the requirement that police officers be 55 years old before they can retire is gaining support as a way to help recruit and retain police officers. Maui News.

Major conservation conference comes to Maui this week. The National Association of Conservation Districts Pacific Southwest Regional Conference will take place in Lahaina this week, highlighting cooperative efforts on many levels. Maui Now.

Maui County seeks public input for kupuna and caregiver plans. The Maui County Office on Aging is seeking public input that will help guide future plans. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kaua‘i mayor, council member, top official raises to go before council. A resolution set to go before County Council Wednesday would increase the maximum salaries of the mayor, department leadership, and council members by 15%. Garden Island.

High housing costs on Kauaʻi contribute to labor shortage. Kauaʻi has some of the same challenges as the rest of Hawaiʻi — high housing costs and a severe labor shortage. The pressures in this small community just seem a bit higher. Hawaii Public Radio.

F-22 fighters respond to Russian Navy activity near Hawaii, Honolulu police officers charged in killing 16-year-old, travel surges with loosened COVID requirements, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

F-22 Raptors U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt Ben Bloker

Russian Navy west of Hawaii prompted F-22 fighter launch from Hickam, report says. The Russian Navy is edging closer to Hawaii with a big exercise 300 to 500 miles west of the Aloha State — prompting the Air Force to scramble three missile-armed F-22 fighters on Sunday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

French Warplanes To Train With US Military In Hawaii As Allies Solidify Ties. France’s new commander in the Pacific toured Hawaii last month as relations between China and Europe sour. Civil Beat.

Loosened intercounty restrictions give boost to travel. Hawaii ended restrictions on intercounty travel between the Hawaiian Islands on Tuesday and extended the quarantine exemption to domestic travelers who were fully vaccinated with at least one shot in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

First day of the coronavirus vaccine pass goes smoothly for Hawaii travelers, pre-screening saves time. Tuesday, June 15, marked the start of the vaccine exemption that allows travelers vaccinated in Hawaii to bypass quarantine after returning from the mainland. KHON2.

Do We Want More Local Food Or Cheaper Power? Two Hawaii Priorities Conflict. Renewable energy companies say Honolulu’s plan to designate 12% of Oahu as “Important Agricultural Lands” could hinder the state’s ability to meet its clean energy goals. Civil Beat. 

Health officials report 37 new COVID-19 cases statewide. Today’s reported cases include 20 on O‘ahu, 8 on Hawai‘i Island, 3 on Kaua‘i, 2 on Maui and 4 residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

3 Honolulu Police Department officers are charged in the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy. In an unprecedented and historic move for Hawaii law enforcement, Prosecuting Attorney Steven S. Alm moved past an Oahu grand jury decision and brought murder and attempted murder charges against three Honolulu police officers in connection with the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old Micronesian suspect. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Security footage shows exchange before police shoot Lindani Myeni. The video captures Lindani Sanele Myeni entering the home at 91 Coelho Way in Nuuanu and then leaving while apologizing to the couple who called police. Star-Advertiser. KITV4. Civil Beat.

City hopes to efficiently distribute federal funds for homelessness by deadline. Oahu has about $24 million in federal COVID-19 funds to spend on homelessness outreach and housing — of which $10 million is going to a new program called Oahu Housing Now. Star-Advertiser.

Kaimukī Residents Concerned 'Monster Home' Construction Taking Place; DPP Director Reviewing Plans. Honolulu's Director of Planning and Permitting is reviewing a controversial residential construction case on Oʻahu. It involves the demolition of structures on a 19,000 square foot lot, and the construction of what neighbors fear will be a monster home. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Police Release Body Cam Footage Of Hilo Shooting. Video from the Body Worn Camera of the officer that was involved in the fatal shooting of Ryan Santos on the evening of June 13 was released on Tuesday. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now. KITV4. Tribune-Herald.

Council panel advances new building code: Codes for new and existing residences get stamp of approval. In what appeared to be the smoothest discussion and vote on building code amendments in more than a decade, a County Council panel Tuesday unanimously advanced changes bringing the county up to the 2018 code for new and existing residential buildings. West Hawaii Today.

Borce wraps up three-year stint at PTA. After three years at the helm, Lt. Col. Loreto “JR” V. Borce Jr. on Tuesday passed the baton — or, more accurately, presented the colors — of Pohakuloa Training Area to Lt. Col. Kevin Cronin. Tribune-Herald.

A Chinese national is facing a federal charge for allegedly laundering millions of fraud proceeds used by a co-conspirator to purchase and flip real estate for profit in West Hawaii. From 2010 through October 2018, Claypool developed and then sold those properties located in Waikoloa, Puuanahulu, Kukio and Kailua-Kona, for more than $11.4 million and later transferred the proceeds to investments accounts at brokerage firm Edward Jones, authorities say. West Hawaii Today.

Halau, kumu hula prepare for Merrie Monarch Festival with modifications. The Merrie Monarch Festival is slated for June 24 – 26 after being put on pause due to the pandemic. KHON2.

Maui

Maui Film Industry Reels Up in 2021: John Travolta, Bruce Willis, Guy Fieri, HBO, Hallmark and More. Maui Film Commissioner Tracy Bennett, the State Film Commissioner and Mayor Michael Victorino worked to bring major productions back to Maui County after the lockdown over a year ago, approving filming with restrictions in August. Maui Now.

10-Year Review of Maui County Charter Underway, Public Input Sought. Once a decade the Mayor and the Council appoint a Commission of 11 citizens to conduct a year-long review of Maui County’s governing document, the Maui County Charter. Maui Now.

Public Hearing For County Facility Concessions, June 23. The public is invited to provide input on proposed rules for concession operations during an online public hearing set for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 23, 2021, the Department of Parks and Recreation announced. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i condo prices skyrocket over five years. Condominium sales have increased over 55% over the past five years, Kaua‘i Realtors say. Garden Island.

Hawai‘i first lady promotes literacy. Hawai‘i First Lady Dawn Amano-Ige visited Kaua‘i to promote literacy, primarily the ‘Ohana Readers Kaua‘i, and the Hawai‘i State Public Library System’s Tails and Tales Summer Reading Program. Garden Island.

Vacation rental tax crackdown brings millions to state coffers, Congress mulls Pearl Harbor modernization money, Maui sets property tax rates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kayaks on the Ala Wai ©2021 All Hawaii News

State tax crackdown garners millions in unpaid vacation rental taxes. The state Department of Taxation already has collected $4.1 million this year from vacation rental owners who owed back taxes, and through continued stepped- up enforcement expects to easily hit $12 million by year’s end. Star-Advertiser.

UHERO Forecast: Visitors Could Reach 6.4M in 2021, 8.8M in 2022. A new forecast from the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization finds that, for 2021, Hawaii is bouncing back a bit faster than expected but that full recovery is still several years away. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii monthly bankruptcies rise for first time in year. Statewide bankruptcies rose for the first time this year as filings in April jumped 19.3% even as the state continued to show encouraging signs of an economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii commercial fishers’ catch down 15% in 2020. Hawaii’s commercial fishers caught 6 million pounds fewer pelagic species of fish and brought in $27 million less in revenue in 2020 — a product of the coronavirus pandemic, which crushed demand for fish. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Fishermen Are Worried About China’s Fleet. So Is The Military. The U.S. military increasingly sees illegal fishing as a national security threat and has China’s vast government-subsidized fleet in its sights. Civil Beat.

The state and several nonprofit organizations are partnering up to develop a program to increase mental health services for keiki of Hawaii. The Integrated Infant and Early Childhood Behavioral Health Plan aims to improve access to service providers for families with children five years-old or younger, eliminate gaps in service and remove the stigma for families seeking help. Hawaii News Now.

Pfizer vaccine for 5 to 11 year olds could come in June, rural areas remain concern for Hawaii. Another increase into triple-digit COVID-19 cases across the state was reported on Sunday, May 16. KHON2.

May 16, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 127 Cases (103 O‘ahu, 10 Maui, 3 Moloka‘i, 3 Hawai‘i Island, 8 Out-of-State); 1 Death. Maui Now.

Oahu

$25 billion bill in Congress seeks to speed up modernization of Pearl Harbor. A bipartisan bill seeks $25 billion to upgrade the Navy’s four shipyards — Pearl Harbor included — sooner rather than later, as well as to make improvements to private yards in the face of rapid Chinese military expansion. Star-Advertiser.

Search continues to fix Oahu rail’s too-narrow wheels and too-wide tracks. Officials with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation are working with Hitachi Rail to find a solution — whether to replace 32 wheels on all 20 trains or have new track crossings manufactured and shipped in. Rail and Hitachi officials met in person in Honolulu on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

A plan to clear hundreds of DUI cases amid the COVID-19 court closures has resulted in 1,116 plea deals in Honolulu. The offers were not allowed ahead of the pandemic, but when the courts shut down last year the backlog ballooned to 900. Hawaii News Now.

Drug deaths in Honolulu hit 5-year high in 2020. Drug-related deaths in Honolulu hit a five-year high last year, fueled by methamphetamine overdoses that have law enforcement focused on keeping more illegal drugs out of the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Clinics see high turnout as COVID vaccine eligibility expands to 12 to 15-year-olds. The Queen’s Health System held its first high school clinic Saturday since the COVID vaccine became available for children as young as 12 years old. Hawaii News Now.

Jack and Kim Johnson’s Kokua Learning Farm in Haleiwa gets help from new solar e-tractor. Kokua Learning Farm in Haleiwa town recently debuted Hawaii’s first solar-powered electric tractor, which definitely makes it easier being green, according to Jack Johnson, the musician and co-founder, with his wife, Kim, of the Kokua Hawaii Foundation, which launched the farm and community center in December 2019. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

More money for lawyers: Council to vote on $200k more for landfill contract renegotiations. Two years into negotiations with garbage giant Waste Management Inc., county attorneys say they’re running out of money for outside legal counsel, and they’re coming to the County Council to ask for more. West Hawaii Today.

County plans to reopen all of Highway 137; work set for 2022. Ikaika Rodenhurst, director of the county Department of Public Works, confirmed that plans are being drafted to reopen all of the highway — from the “Four Corners” intersection to Pohoiki Road, and another stretch at the MacKenzie State Recreation Area — after it was buried under lava by the Kilauea eruption, but the expansion of the project has led to a few months of delays. Tribune-Herald.

Man Fined $633k For Poisoning North Hilo Stream. The largest Hawaiʻi land board fine ever for an aquatic resource violation in the state was handed down on Friday. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island Aquaculture Gets Boost With Big Grant. The Natural Energy Lab of Hawaii in Kailua-Kona has been awarded a $1.8 million grant to continue a fruitful aquaculture accelerator program aimed at supporting business retention and growth initiatives at a sustainable technology park. Civil Beat.

Maui

County to take in extra $7.8M from property taxes. The Maui County Council on Friday set property tax rates that will net about $7.8 million more in county revenues than the prior fiscal year. The county is forecast to raise $383.2 million in fiscal 2022 from real property taxes, its largest income generator. Maui News.

Maui Democrats Narrow English Successor To Three Candidates. Members of the Maui County Democratic Party’s Senate District 7 selection body chose three names on Saturday to send to Gov. David Ige for his consideration to fill the vacancy created by the recent retirement of Senator J. Kalani English. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

The Investigation Into The Ex-Maui Police Chief’s Hit And Run Is In. The former Maui police chief involved in a hit-and-run accident last year was properly investigated by his own officers who appropriately concluded the accident was a civil matter, not a criminal case, a new report on the incident concludes. Civil Beat.

Kauai

County mulls new tax ability. The county administration is still analyzing its position on a bill sitting on Gov. David Ige’s desk that includes a provision that would allow county governments to enact their own sort of transient accommodations tax. Garden Island.

Preparing for a Kekaha cleanup. The county has received $300,000 to start first steps in cleaning up hazardous-waste sites at the former Kekaha Sugar Company mill, revitalize the historic site and advance economic development in the area. Garden Island.

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

Honolulu International Airport ©2020 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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


Kauai

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

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

Molokai

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

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

House Speaker Saiki resurrects state property tax bill, groups sue DLNR over aquarium collectors, coronavirus hits Hawaii tourism, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

School of fish in Hawaii ©2020 All Hawaii News

State agency has not protected reef fish, lawsuit says. Earthjustice filed suit Monday against a state agency it says is sidestepping the law when it comes to the regulation of tropical fish taken from Hawaii’s reefs for the commercial aquarium pet trade. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR draws lawsuit. The State’s Department of Land and Natural Resources is drawing a lawsuit from the environmental law firm Earthjustice, claiming the agency has created loopholes for the aquarium fishing industry to continue unregulated. Garden Island.

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Saiki Proposes Tax Funding Measure To Raise Teacher Pay. Under the House Speaker’s plan, voters could approve a constitutional amendment giving the Hawaii Board of Education power to increase property taxes. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers seek to add new property tax to fund teacher pay. The bill comes a little more than a year after the Hawaii Supreme Court struck down a similar ballot question less than three weeks before the 2018 general election. Pacific Business News.

Bill introduced to better pay Hawaii's teachers. Speaker of the House Scott Saiki introduced the bill that would allow the public to vote on whether or not the Board of Education should be able to raise property taxes to fund teacher salaries. KITV4.

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Bill: Don’t Let State Workers Access Online Porn. Government facilities that provide free WiFi would also require blocking filters. Civil Beat.

A bevy of marijuana bills: Full legalization, dispensary improvements among proposed measures. After 2019 brought several changes to marijuana management at both the state and county level, dozens of new marijuana-related bills have been proposed in 2020. Tribune-Herald.

OHA Submits Package of Proposed Bills. As part of its mandate to advocate for Native Hawaiians, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs submits a package of proposed bills to the Hawai`i State Legislature each year. Maui Now.

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Agencies scramble as trips to and from China are scrubbed amid the coronavirus outbreak. The outbreak of the 2019 coronavirus is hitting travelers between Hawaii and China as well as Hawaii companies that rely on their business. Star-Advertiser.

Report: Two-Thirds of Hawaii Residents Struggle Financially. Residents cope by working multiple jobs, living with relatives and tapping savings, a new study shows. Civil Beat.

Major Decrease In Hawaii’s Cost Of Living Unlikely, But A Little May Be Enough. According to Peter Fulekey, an economist with the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, the price of goods and services in Hawaii are 18.5 percent higher than the national average. Hawaii Public Radio.

Midwives prepare for licensing. Midwives in Hawaii are gearing up for new licensing requirements that will go into effect this summer. Tribune-Herald.

New suitor comes forward to buy Hawaiian Telcom’s parent company. An unsolicited potential acquirer has upped the ante for Hawaiian Telcom’s parent company, and investors are speculating that the offer may have fueled a bidding war. Star-Advertiser.

Bank of Hawaii posts 7.8% earnings increase and announces 4 new branches. Bank of Hawaii Corp. reported today that its net income rose 7.8% in the fourth quarter amid solid loan and deposit growth. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kalama vigil tonight, Enriquez funeral Thursday. A candlelight vigil will be held tonight at Sandy Beach to honor the memory of Honolulu police officer Kaulike Kalama, whom friends and family have described as a “quiet hero,” whose calm presence made him the “rock” that others looked to as a source of strength. Star-Advertiser.

City considers creating a new utility (and fee) for tackling storm water. The city is considering a new utility ― and a fee for residents ― in order to better manage storm water runoff. Hawaii News Now.

Renewed calls for law enforcement on central O'ahu ag-land. Hawaii State Senator Donovan Dela Cruz (D) is calling for a security presence on state agricultural lands in Wahiawa. KITV4.

Kakaako tower facing extraordinary maintenance fee hike. Living in Kakaako was supposed to be pretty affordable for several hundred moderate-income Hawaii residents who bought into a condominium tower via lottery last year at Ward Village. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly one year after fatal Kakaako crash, new plans to improve safety at intersections. Tuesday, Jan. 28 will mark one year since the deadly Kakaako crash that injured six people and killed three pedestrians, local doctor, Travis Lau, Reino Ikeda from Japan and Casimir Pokorny from Pennsylvania. KHON2.

Major make-over for Ewa Beach park set to begin. Nightly closure signs have gone up at One'ula Beach Park, just the start of major multi-million dollars improvements. KITV4.

How These Makaha Neighbors Saved A County Park From Crime And Weeds. When police and social services agencies couldn’t help, this small band of neighbors took matters into their own hands. And it worked. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Construction ongoing: Kona prosecutor’s office delayed, completion now set for March. Hawaii County prosecutors will have to wait a couple more months before they can move into their new home at the West Hawaii Civic Center. West Hawaii Today.

Stinky problem points to need for sewer solution. A sewer system for Naalehu has been talked about for decades, but it can come none too soon, as a stinky problem last week demonstrated. West Hawaii Today.

County begins Alii Drive sinkhole repair work. Work is underway to repair damage to Alii Drive caused by a sinkhole that opened late last year fronting Coconut Grove Marketplace. West Hawaii Today.

Aliʻi Drive Sinkhole Repair Project Begins. The county says traffic on Ali‘i Drive fronting Coconut Grove Marketplace will be reduced to one lane during daylight hours as crews work to repair damage caused by sinkhole. Big Island Video News.

National Park Works To Reopen Popular Lava Tube. The unpaved Escape Road will close while repairs continue at Nāhuku, also known as Thurston Lava Tube, damaged during the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea. Big Island Video News.

Escape Road at HVNP to Close Temporarily. An unpaved emergency route between Highway 11 and the comfort station at Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube) will be closed to the public starting Tuesday, Jan. 28 while repairs to a faulty electrical line are made. Big Island Now.

Maui

Kaiser Permanente No Longer Has Contract For Med-QUEST Coverage On Maui. Med-QUEST, the state’s health and medical coverage for low-income individuals, has awarded healthcare providers HMSA, United Healthcare, AlohaCare and Ohana Health Plan contracts that take effect in July. Hawaii Public Radio.

Stubbs Named Kihei Charter Head of School. Stubbs replaces former Head of School John Colson, who has been with the school for several years and will now serve as an educational consultant. Maui Now.

Fewer turtles found stranded in 2019 than in year previous. Fishing gear – mainly nets – continues to be the greatest cause of marine entanglements. Maui News.

Pro-life marchers take to the streets in Kahului. A sign-waving crowd of about 190 people makes its way along Puunene Avenue in Kahului Saturday morning while taking part in the annual Maui March for Life. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai United Way funding being considered. Nonprofit organizations that provide human services to the people of Kauai can now apply for Kauai United Way funding covering the period from July 2020 through June, 2021. Garden Island.

Small group rallies against abortion on Kauai. Garden Island.

Pearl Harbor shipyard gunman identified, Honolulu council passes plastics ban, Kilauea eruption costs $800M in damages, Pier 1 Imports leaving the state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard PC: Justice Vannatta, Public Affairs Specialist

Gunman in deadly Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard shooting identified as investigation continues. Investigators are still trying to determine why a U.S. Navy sailor opened fire at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard on Wednesday, killing two civilian workers and injuring one other before killing himself. Sources have identified the gunman as Gabriel Romero, an active duty sailor assigned to the USS Columbia. Hawaii News Now.

3 Dead, 1 Wounded In Shooting At Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam said the shooter, a U.S. sailor, killed himself after shooting three Department of Defense civilian workers. Civil Beat.

Navy sailor fatally shoots two civilian workers, injures another, then kills himself at Pearl Harbor. A sailor from a U.S. submarine shot three civilian employees of Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Wednesday afternoon, killing two and leaving another in stable condition, before killing himself. Star-Advertiser.

Shooter identified as U.S. Sailor, kills two before killing self at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, victim identified. In a press conference held Wednesday evening, Rear Admiral Robert Chadwick said that the shooter had been identified as an active-duty U.S. Sailor assigned to the USS Columbia. KHON2.

3 dead, 1 wounded in Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard shooting. Three people are confirmed dead by the US Navy, one of them is the shooter. KITV.

Navy: Sailor Shooter Dead After Killing Two, Injuring One At Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. A sailor killed himself after shooting three male civilian workers, two of whom were dead, at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Wednesday afternoon, the Navy said. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sailor kills 2 civilians, self at Pearl Harbor shipyard. An active duty U.S. sailor whose submarine was docked at Pearl Harbor opened fire on three civilian employees Wednesday, killing two and then taking his own life just days before dignitaries and veterans descend on the base for the 78th anniversary of the Japanese attack. Associated Press.

Three Confirmed Dead in Shooter Incident at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Three people are confirmed dead following what was described as an active shooter incident at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam on Wednesday afternoon. Maui Now.

Shipyard workers play key role in U.S. defense. With more than 6,000 employees, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard is one of the busiest places to work in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Feds: Chinese Industrial Spies Have Great Interest In Hawaii. U.S. Justice Department officials this week are briefing Hawaii business and academic leaders on Chinese espionage. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Delegates Complain About $17M COFA Funding Error. The four members of Congress say the state was significantly under-compensated to help Micronesians. Civil Beat.

Tulsi Gabbard maintains her permanent residence in Hawaii. Despite recent reports of her moving, Hawaii US Representative and Presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard's permanent residence remains here in Hawaii. KITV.

Craig Hirai appointed to lead Hawaii Department of Budget and Finance. Gov. David Ige has appointed Craig Hirai to lead Hawaii’s Department of Budget and Finance, replacing Neal Miyahira who will return to his prior position as the department’s budget division administrator. Star-Advertiser.

2020 U.S. Census to be accessible online, and your response is key. For the first time, the upcoming U.S. Census will be online. And there’s added effort to make sure Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are counted. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii one of worst states in distracted driving deaths. Let’s Talk, made up of a team of writers and editors that covers phone plans, found that the state ranks fifth in the category, behind Louisiana, Kentucky, Kansas and New Mexico, which had the highest rate of deaths for distracted driving. Star-Advertiser.

Pier 1 Imports closing all its stores in Hawaii. Pier 1 Imports is pulling out of Hawaii and closing all seven of its remaining stores. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council passes ban on single-use plastics in 7-2 vote. The Honolulu City Council today voted 7-2 to pass a bill that would bar the distribution of single-use plastic plates, bowls, and other foodware and serviceware in Oahu restaurants by 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Council Passes Landmark Bill Restricting Single-Use Plastics On Oahu. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has signaled he supports the bill. Its restrictions on food-vendor plastics would roll out in the next two years. Civil Beat.

Single-use plastics on Oahu on-track to be outlawed after a council vote. After several changes and hours of testimony, the Honolulu City Council approved a sweeping ban on single-use plastics on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Strict Oahu plastic ban will start to take effect in 2021. A stricter ban on plastic will become law on Oahu after it has seen its fair share of revisions. KHON2.

Bill 40 banning single-use plastic passed by Honolulu City Council. Bill 40 which bans plastic takeout containers and utensils is now headed for Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell's desk. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Roy Takemoto confirmed as new managing director. It was rough going for a while, but the County Council on Wednesday ultimately unanimously confirmed Roy Takemoto as Mayor Harry Kim’s second in command. West Hawaii Today.

Eruption did nearly $800M in damage. Last year’s Kilauea volcano eruption cost the county nearly $800 million in economic damage, according to an estimate from the Kilauea Eruption Recovery Team. Tribune-Herald.

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$31 Million UH-Hilo College Of Pharmacy Building Opens. The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy celebrated the dedication of its permanent building on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

Dignitaries gather to celebrate completion of College of Pharmacy building. A misty rain came down Wednesday morning as hundreds gathered for the blessing of Kiho‘iho‘i, the new home of the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy. Tribune-Herald.

UH-Hilo Dedicates Permanent Pharmacy School Building. The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy (DKICP) dedicated the college’s new permanent building in Hilo’s University Research Park on December 4. Big Island Now.

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State: Hawaii County not affected by new food stamps rule. The state Department of Human Services administrator for the division in charge of Supplemental Nutrition Program, known as SNAP benefits, said Wednesday that fewer than 1,000 people in Hawaii — all on Molokai — will be affected by a new Trump administration order that will tighten work requirements for recipients. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Holiday Express may be on its last tracks. Owners are trying to work out deal to run Lahaina train full time. The Sugar Cane Train’s “Holiday Express” may reach the end of the line after this year with the owners saying they currently are unable to secure a deal from a major landowner to keep the train running. Maui News.

Maui Electric Seeks Renewable Energy Projects on Moloka‘i, Lana‘i. The company is issuing a request for proposals for renewable energy paired with energy storage from developers locally and globally. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai police double down on ‘No-Shave November’. After participating in “No-Shave November” to raise funds for the American Cancer Society’s Kauai branch, the Kauai Police Department is extending the drive during “Double-Down December.” Star-Advertiser.