Showing posts with label China. Show all posts
Showing posts with label China. Show all posts

Friday, July 13, 2018

China spy ship watching RIMPAC, Hanabusa gaining on Ige in money race, fraudulent service pets could be fined, firefighter boyfriend pleads guilty in Kealoha case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

RIMPAC exercise PC:Ordinary Seaman Justin Spinello/Canadian Armed Forces
China sends spy ship to RIMPAC. China was disinvited from the prestigious Rim of the Pacific exercise, but it has made an appearance anyway — dispatching a spy ship to international waters off Hawaii, the Navy said today. Star-Advertiser.

In her bid to unseat Gov. David Ige, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa out-raised and out-spent him during the first six months of 2018. Star-Advertiser.

Ige, Hanabusa Power Up Their Fundraising. In the lieutenant governor’s race, state Sen. Josh Green has raised and spent the most cash. Civil Beat.

A bill that would fine people fraudulently representing their pets as service dogs has become law without Gov. David Ige’s signature. Star-Advertiser.

A new law in Hawaii now gives survivors of child sexual abuse more time to file claims against their abuser. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Federal Communications Commission announced new regulations to prevent false alerts from going out like the one that happened here in January. KHON2.

Oahu

Hawaii County Fire Department Battalion Chief Jesse Michael Ebersole pleaded guilty in federal court this afternoon to conspiring with deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha to lie about their affair to a federal grand jury and has agreed to cooperate in the prosecution of Kealoha and her husband, retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Kealoha’s Boyfriend Pleads Guilty To Federal Conspiracy. “I lied to the grand jury,” Jesse Ebersole says regarding his relationship with the city prosecutor. Civil Beat.

Firefighter: 'I lied' to grand jury about affair with ex-HPD chief's wife. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island firefighter pleads guilty to conspiracy charges. KITV.

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The families of the four victims that died in the high-rise Marco Polo fire filed a lawsuit today alleging that the deaths could have been prevented if the defendants had followed basic safety measures. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit filed over fatal Marco Polo fire. KITV.

Council OKs Property Tax Break For Active-Duty Military Personnel. If signed by the mayor, the exemption would cost Honolulu an estimated $1 million a year. Civil Beat.

City officials relocate 23 homeless people ahead of park maintenance project. Hawaii News Now.

City officials say they got 23 people off the streets of Oahu Wednesday night. KHON2.

Office tower to become affordable housing. An abandoned office tower eyesore in downtown Honolulu is slated for a face-lift, but its “pimples” will remain under a plan to convert the building into affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

Search For Other Beneficiaries to Hawaiian Heiress’ Trust Will Continue. A judge delayed deciding whether to include a new board of directors for Abigail Kawananakoa’s charity in the battle for control of her $215 million trust. Civil Beat.

Arch enemies': Princess Kawananakoa's attorneys denounce foundation's board. Hawaii News Now.

Biki expansion plans run into possible roadblock in Waikiki. Some residents near Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head want Biki to backpedal on its expansion plans for the area. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island


Lava has consumed Kua O Ka La charter school and Ahalanui County Beach Park. KHON2.

Lava consumed Ahalanui Beach Park on Wednesday evening, destroying yet another beloved Puna destination. Tribune-Herald.

Loss of school stings: Destruction of Kua O Ka La ‘utterly devastating’. Tribune-Herald.

The county’s purchase of a $2.7 million Vacationland parcel from a politically connected family is ongoing, even after the land was made worthless by lava inundation. West Hawaii Today.

Businesses and residents affected by lava on the Big Island have received over $10 million in disaster assistance loans from the Small Business Association, officials announced on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Council Proposal Urges State To Name Fissure 8. Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy has introduced a resolution asking the State Board on Geographic Names to begin the consultation process. Big Island Video News.

Does Anyone Really Miss The Puna Geothermal Plant? Hawaii Electric Light Co. has plenty of power despite the shutdown of the plant which was damaged by lava. Civil Beat.

USGS employs high-tech laser mapping at Kilauea’s summit. Tribune-Herald.

Changes are planned at Pohakuloa Training Area as the U.S. Army moves forward with a $210 million overhaul. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Kihei developers seek to go back to the future. Latest proposal for Piilani Promenade project area more in line with 1995 plans. Maui News.

Representative Justin H. Woodson of Maui says the recent approval of the Kahului Civic Center Mixed-Use Project and multi-family rental housing units by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation Board of Directors is a positive move toward providing more affordable housing. Maui Now.

All Maui County DMV's will be closed Friday due to staff training. KHON2.

Kauai

America, Japan forces work together in historic missile operation. The Japanese Type 12 surface-to-ship missile, SSM12, didn’t launch when it was supposed to on Thursday during a historic multi-domain exercise at Pacific Missile Range Facility. Garden Island.

A vision for Kauai’s children to accomplish their dreams on Kauai is why Billy De Costa is running for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

By a unanimous vote at the Kauai County Farm Bureau annual meeting, Johnny Gordines repeats as the Kauai County Farm Bureau president. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Gawkers cited as lava marches on, defense secretary warns China to halt military buildup, Ige signs gay 'conversion therapy' ban, flood money for Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy of USGS
Lava fountains PC:USGS See 'Hawaii Island' category for full volcano update
Gov. David Ige signed SB270 into law, which prohibits therapists from offering “sexual orientation change efforts” or “conversion therapy” to patients under the age of 18. Maui Now.

The U.S. will continue to confront China’s militarization of manmade islands in the South China Sea, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said today in Honolulu, arguing that Beijing hasn’t abided by its promise not to put weapons on the Spratly Islands. Associated Press.

Defense Secretary Mattis arrives in Honolulu for change at U.S. Pacific Command. Hawaii News Now.

SHOPO has endorsed Ernie Martin in the Democratic primary race for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines is debuting nonstop daily service starting Thursday between Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Long Beach Airport. Star-Advertiser.

AirAsia to increase flight frequency from Honolulu to Malaysia via Japan. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A 200-year-old carving of the war god Ku has returned home to Hawaii after spending untold years abroad and in the hands of private collectors. Associated Press.

The State Department of Health is fining the developer of the exclusive Olomana Heights project in Kailua $28,000 over allegations of illegal storm water discharges. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa announced today that it ranked 306 out of 18,000 universities worldwide in the 2018–19 Center for World University Rankings, the largest academic ranking of global universities. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is now ranked within the top 1.7% of universities worldwide according to the latest academic ranking of global universities. Maui Now.

A long-lost World War II aviator soon will be going back to his family for burial after his remains were recovered in 2016 from mountainous terrain near Kahuku Point, and he was positively identified. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava Crosses Highway 132, Destroys 400 Utility Poles. Power to some areas has been knocked out for the foreseeable future. Associated Press.

Lava from fissure 8 severs Highway 132, knocks out power, further isolates lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

On a day when new Hawaii island communities lost a major highway, electricity and cell service because of expanding lava flows, Mayor Harry Kim told a gathering that included many of those affected that they will get through this ordeal. Star-Advertiser.

Eruption Meeting – Mayor Harry Kim. The mayor said a restricted area will be established in sections of Leilani Estates. No one will be allowed in, according to a new policy. Big Island Video News.

Puna residents air concerns over housing, overnight curfews amid ongoing eruptions. Hawaii News Now.

Lava flows are threatening several wells at the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, after earlier cutting off the primary access road to the facility. Hawaii News Now.

Making a bad situation worse: Lava evacuees are running into rental scams. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is cracking down on lava gawkers who violate closures in disaster areas associated with the current eruption of Kilauea. Star-Advertiser.

Three cited by DLNR for lava-related offenses. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward anyone who violates closures in the disaster area associated with the current eruption of Kilauea. Tribune-Herald.

A New York state couple was cited after bypassing a security checkpoint in attempts to view an active lava flow Monday evening, state officials confirmed Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Air quality reaches ‘unhealthy’ levels in Kona. Hualalai was shrouded in vog as air quality reached “unhealthy” levels for some West Hawaii residents Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Incandescent Blocks Expelled from Volcano, Land Along Crater Rim. Maui Now

The recent eruptions at Kilauea’s east rift zone have sent fine strands of volcanic glass, also known as Pele’s hair, over Pahoa. Hawaii News Now.

The Pride of America resumes its weekly Wednesday visit to Kailua-Kona today. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Coastal hazards specialist Tara Owens will talk about the impacts of sea level rise at a Maui County Council Planning Committee meeting Thursday. Maui News.

Vietnam War Monument unveiled on Memorial Day. Maui News.

Kauai

The Hawaii Board of Agriculture on Tuesday approved parameters for emergency low-interest agricultural loans for farmers suffering damage due to the heavy rain and flooding on Kauai and Oahu in April and the current eruption phase at Kilauea volcano on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

It’s been nearly six weeks since Kauai was hit by record flooding. And the recovery continues to be a slow process. Hawaii Public Radio.


Roy Saito has called Kauai home for several decades, but over the years, he’s seen a lot of changes on the island, and that’s why he decided to run for County Council. Garden Island.

Starbucks holds racial-bias training for employees. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Blue flames the latest show from Kilauea volcano as National Guard prepares for air evacuations, Pentagon withdraws China's RIMPAC invite, slightly more active hurricane season predicted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Blue flames from burning methane are the latest natural phenomena being seen at the eruption of the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii. Associated Press.

A blue-burning flame of methane gas was observed in the cracks on Kahukai Street during the overnight hours in Puna just before midnight on May 22, 2018. Tribune-Herald.

National Guard prepares for air evacuations if lava cuts off key Puna highway. An air evacuation of the portions of Lower Puna that are threatened by the Kilauea volcano eruption could be accomplished within four hours if that becomes necessary because of damage to ground transportation routes, according to Hawaii Army National Guard commander Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara. Star-Advertiser.

Number of structures claimed by lava rises to 50 as eruptions continue. Hawaii News Now.

Officials Expect New Lava Flow to Enter Ocean. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kilauea Volcano on the Island of Hawaii, though best known for its frequent quiet eruptions of lava flows, has erupted explosively many times in its history—most recently in 2011. USGS Report.

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The Pentagon on Wednesday withdrew an invitation to China to participate in a major Pacific naval exercise, citing Beijing’s “continued militarization” of the South China Sea, adding another irritant to relations between the two nations as they jostle over trade and North Korea. Tribune News.

Forecasters Predict Central Pacific Could See Up To 6 Hurricanes This Season. Weak El Nino conditions — water warming on the surface of the ocean along the equator — could make the next few months stormier. Associated Press.

Forecasters are calling for normal to above-normal tropical cyclone activity within the Central Pacific this hurricane season. West Hawaii Today.

Hurricane Season in Hawaii officially starts next month and forecasters are expecting above normal activity. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Decision Delayed On Hawaii Legislator’s Alleged Campaign Violations. Rep. Kaniela Ing faces more than $15,000 in fines for 31 counts connected to prior campaigns. Civil Beat.

The state Campaign Spending Commission this morning postponed hearing a complaint against state Rep. Kaniela Ing until next month. Star-Advertiser.

The Center for Biological Diversity petitioned the US Food and Drug Administration today to ban two  chemicals from sunscreens and other personal care products that they say are killing precious coral and damaging reefs. Maui Now.

Oahu

The city plans to erase seven crosswalks along busy South King Street. Hawaii News Now.

Ride-hailing apps face price caps under City Council plan. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Despite Kilauea’s worsening volcanic activity, May visitor arrivals are up 25 percent over last year on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The County is once again distributing free masks for ash protection at various locations, today through Friday. Big Island Video News.

No water restriction yet: New deep well starts pumping in North Kona as 4 remain offline. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Police Department is the first in the state to be equipped and trained to use a nasal spray that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Maui News.

A Makena family’s request to continue holding weddings on its property is headed to the Maui County Council after the Maui Planning Commission recommended approval of an after-the-fact permit Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. signed a second emergency proclamation on Wednesday, effectively extending the order prohibiting the operation of vacation rentals in flood-affected areas. Hawaii News Now.

Kahiliholo Road in Kilauea has collapsed after being damaged by Kauai’s April floods, and has created a dam, blocking the waterfall along Kuhio Highway, just before the Kalihiwai River. Garden Island.

The County of Kauai Recycling Office announced a free electronic waste recycling event for residents and businesses set for Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Anaina Hou Community Park behind Kauai Mini Golf in Kilauea. Garden Island.

Friday, January 26, 2018

HI-EMA employee not cooperating in false missile alarm probe, Judge rescinds arrest warrant for Hawaiian-speaking defendant, bill would change Mauna Kea management, record hotel revenue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PC: Danny De Gracia III
Waikiki beach PC: Danny De Gracia III
State hotels set revenue, daily-rate records in 2017. The impetus behind the record-breaking performance was an increase in visitor arrivals and spending. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotel revenue per available room increased 5.4 percent in 2017 compared to the year prior, setting a new state record, according to a report by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

‘Button pusher’ not cooperating with multiple investigations. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency “button pusher” who sent a bogus missile alert that triggered panic across the islands Jan. 13 is not cooperating with either a Federal Communications Commission investigation or two internal investigations and has not returned to work. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii state employee who mistakenly sent an alert warning of a ballistic missile attack has refused to cooperate with federal and state investigators, officials said Thursday. Associated Press.

Official: Missile alert employee not cooperating in probe. KITV.

Investigators say HI-EMA worker who sent false alarm refuses to cooperate. KHON2.

Surveillance footage during false missile alert won’t be released, because it doesn’t exist. KHON2.

This Is What Hawaii’s Missile Defense System Looks Like. The basic principle involves shooting a missile with a missile. But some want more assurance that the missiles don’t miss. Civil Beat.

Amid ongoing spats between China and the United States in the South China Sea, Beijing confirmed Thursday it will participate in this summer’s big Rim of the Pacific exercise off Hawaii from June 27 to Aug. 2. Star-Advertiser.

Governor's Proposal to Transfer Sheriff Deputies Opposed by HGEA. The State Airports Division wants to have more control over the State Sheriffs assigned to work there. Hawaii Public Radio.

One Year Under Trump: Hawaii Republicans. Hawaii Public Radio.

A package of bills from the Hawaii Women’s Legislative Caucus includes a measure to require health insurers and health maintenance groups to provide comprehensive coverage for reproductive services such as abortions. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers are trying again to close a loophole in Hawaii’s “100 percent renewable energy by 2045” policy that allows the state to meet that goal even if half of the electricity being consumed comes from oil-burning power plants. Civil Beat.

Bill aims for tighter restrictions on aquarium fishing. Garden Island.

In what is believed to be the first case of its kind, the state Department of Health has fined the former operator of an unlicensed care home $325,000. Star-Advertiser.

A new state website will give parents a chance to see temperatures in classrooms at 62 public schools. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest to launch Hawaii flights as early as December. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

A 41-story residential tower at Keeaumoku and Makaloa streets, which had been criticized for its so-called “poor door,” was given a thumbs-up Thursday by the City Council Zoning and Housing Committee. Star-Advertiser.

Group starts petition to keep makai parking at Ala Moana Regional Park.  proposal that would eliminate parking on the makai side of the drive through the Ala Moana Regional Park is drawing opposition from a group of park users, who've started gathering signatures on a petition, both in person and online. Hawaii News Now.

Time’s up, strip of businesses on Kuhio Avenue told. About 10 businesses in a complex of several small buildings mainly fronting Kuhio Avenue are asked to vacate. Star-Advertiser.

Upcoming Pali Highway repairs will result in lane shifts and overnight closures. The $64 million project will repair or replace street lighting from Vineyard Boulevard to Kamehameha Highway and the first phase of resurfacing from Waokanaka Street to Castle Junction. Star-Advertiser.

Behind The Scenes of Hawaii's 2018 Homeless Count. It’s five o’clock on a Tuesday afternoon in Chinatown. Dozens of volunteers are on a mission to survey as many homeless people as they can. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

A coalition of state senators has introduced a bill to dramatically change the management of Mauna Kea, the dormant Hawaii Island volcano that is a sacred place to some Native Hawaiians and one of the world’s premier sites for astronomy. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers will have several options to consider during the current session of the state Legislature for revitalizing Hilo’s Banyan Drive. Tribune-Herald.

Anaehoomalu Resort Proposal Withdrawn By Developers. Big Island Video News.

Former County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi on Thursday got her law license back. West Hawaii Today.

A bill making its way through the state Legislature seeks to increase ambulance services in Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii solar installers and washing machine retailers might see a less successful year than anticipated after President Donald Trump approved tariffs on all imported solar cells and washing machines. Tribune-Herald.

Highway hawking: West Hawaii vendors push limits with roadside retail. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A judge has rescinded a bench warrant for a University of Hawaii professor who spoke Hawaiian in court, in an incident that sparked outrage among Native Hawaiian activists. Hawaii News Now.

A bench warrant for a Haleakala telescope protester was recalled Thursday, a day after being issued when he spoke only in the Hawaiian language at a court hearing Wednesday. Maui News.

Arrest warrant recalled for man who refused to address Maui judge in English. KITV.

Warrant Recalled for Hawaiian Man Who Refused to Speak English in Court. Maui Now.

Six people have drowned in the past two weeks on Maui, prompting ocean safety advocates to ramp up efforts to warn visitors about the dangers of snorkeling and to study new types of masks that have become increasingly popular. Civil Beat.

An environmental court judge is reversing a decision that denied a Native Hawaiian fisherman’s petition to stop Hawaii officials from issuing commercial fishing licenses to those who aren’t legally admitted into the United States. Associated Press.

Judge sends fishing license petition back to land board. An environmental court judge is reversing a decision that denied a Native Hawaiian fisherman's petition to stop Hawaii officials from issuing commercial fishing licenses to those who aren't legally admitted into the United States. Associated Press.

Maui EKO Systems, which has processed the island’s green waste and county sewage sludge into compost for nearly 23 years, could be put out of business as early as the end of next year because of a proposed renewable energy project at the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui News.

County hotels outperform state in 2 of 3 key metrics. Maui News.

HDOT Update on Honoapiilani Realignment & Improvements at Keawe St. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hawaiian language spoken during Coco Palms trial. Garden Island.

Work on 17 homes for the Kauai Habitat for Humanity Eleele Iluna, Phase 2A started Wednesday with the arrival of Team Currie-Kauai 2018 Global Village group. Garden Island.

Friday, October 13, 2017

State mulls homeless problem, Kakaako park suffers $500K damage, Maui mayor's wife drawn into campaign spending investigation, DOT Director Director Fuchigami moved to Governor's Office, raises coming to Hawaii County officials, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Homeless igloo demonstration in Hilo ©2017 All Hawaii News
A legislative working group tasked with recommending possible sites for “safe zones” for homeless encampments on state land in Honolulu will expand its search islandwide — and potentially statewide — after ruling out a few vacant parcels in the city’s urban core. Star-Advertiser.

A growing number of state and county officials are talking about safe zones, designated areas where homeless people could camp legally. Civil Beat.

Just days after closing Kakaako Waterfront Park indefinitely, state crews are assessing the damage left by homeless campers. And they say it's worse than they expected. Hawaii News Now.

Officials show off park damage blamed on homeless campers. Repairs to dozens of broken fixtures and other vandalism throughout Kakaako Waterfront, Gateway and Kewalo Basin parks will total an estimated $500,000. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Community Development Authority's decision to close Kakaako Waterfront Park to the public has frustrated park users. On Thursday, HCDA took local media on a tour of the state park to point out why the closure was necessary. The state agency manages the park and said illegal campers racked up at least $500K in hazardous damage. KITV.

Prescribing Hope: A small Hawaii team is helping the hardest to house. There are more than 200 homeless people who suffer from severe mental illness on Oahu. They are among the hardest to help off the streets. But the state’s only psychiatric street medicine team, launched in January, is seeing successes with these seemingly impossible cases. Hawaii News Now.

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State Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami will leave his job for the new post of administrative director for Gov. David Ige beginning Nov. 1, the governor’s office announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has hired Department of Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami as his administrative director. Civil Beat.

The state is hosting a Telehealth Summit this week with the goal of developing statewide coverage. Telehealth connects a patient and a doctor using computer technology through the internet. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. military’s love-hate relationship with China was recently on display with the Pearl Harbor destroyer USS Chafee at the center of it all. Star-Advertiser.

There’s space for Southwest at isle airports, state says. A state Department of Transportation official said Thursday the previous day’s announcement that Southwest would begin selling tickets to Hawaii next year “is already generating tremendous excitement." Star-Advertiser.

Glenn Hong, head of Young Brothers Ltd., the state’s largest interisland cargo carrier, is leaving the position to join parent company Saltchuk on Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has established a hotline accessible from any island to take reports of Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, dolphins and whales in need of emergency assistance. The 24-hour number is (888) 256-9840. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Contractors continued work Thursday to safely remove fuel and other pollutants from a grounded 79-foot fishing vessel off Kaimana Beach in Waikiki — and the Coast Guard aims to have the entire craft removed from the area today. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police teamed with Hawaii Pacific University Thursday night to spread the message of safety. KHON2.

A popular new Waikiki restaurant in the International Market Place voluntarily closed today due to suspected norovirus, Department of Health spokeswoman Janice Okubo said. Star-Advertiser.

The popular Waikiki eatery Herringbone shuttered its doors on Thursday after several diners reported falling ill after having patronized the restaurant. Hawaii News Now.

The second Hawaii Embassy Suites by Hilton, hotel which opened three weeks ago, aims to accommodate business travelers and individuals looking for another lodging option in Kapolei. Pacific Business News.

Commentary: Why Is It So Hard To Find Police Commissioners? The Caldwell administration says people are turning down the offer but some commissioners say the mayor isn’t willing to fully open the selection process. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Raises are coming to top county officials, but exactly how much was a topic of some debate at a Salary Commission meeting Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Students and faculty are protesting the prospect of cuts to the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s performing arts and humanities programs, which they say includes a proposal to eliminate the campus’ popular jazz orchestra. Tribune-Herald.

Despite a heavy downpour, more than 300 people came out Thursday for the Puna Kai shopping center groundbreaking in Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

Bongs And Bare Breasts Outnumber Cellphones At This Beach. A drum circle is only one of the Sunday attractions at a Big Island beach where millennials and ageless hippies mingle. Civil Beat.

Maui

A Campaign Spending Commission complaint against Mayor Alan Arakawa alleges that his wife, Ann Arakawa, contacted nonprofit and community groups to get them not to cooperate with the commission’s two-year investigation into the mayor’s campaign expenditures from Nov. 5, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2016. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa is accused of breaking campaign spending laws by misrepresenting more than $6,000 in advertisements that his campaign bought. Associated Press.

Maui Electric proposed a 9.3% increase in base rates, or $30 million, to help pay for operating costs, including system upgrades to increase reliability, integrate more renewable energy, and improve customer service. Maui Now.

Maui Electric Co. is proposing a 9.3 percent increase to its base power rates — its first such increase in nearly six years — to help pay for operating costs, including system upgrades to increase reliability, integrate more renewable energy and improve customer service, the utility announced. Maui News.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management heard final arguments on a petition to establish minimum flow standards for more than 20 streams diverted by Alexander & Baldwin subsidiary East Maui Irrigation. Maui Now.

Kauai

A sewage spill released about 50,000 gallons of wastewater in an unoccupied area off Keoniana Road on Wednesday, and some could have gotten to the shoreline. Garden Island.

DMK & Associates LLC will resume roadwork in the Ulu Mahi Subdivision from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, from Oct. 16 through Nov. 17. Garden Island.

Back to nature. Huleia refuge tour one of many events during National Wildlife Refuge Week. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Lanai Landfill will be closed at 1 p.m. today and Saturday because of insufficient staffing, the Department of Environmental Management’s Solid Waste Division said. Maui News.

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Obama and Abe to visit Pearl Harbor Tuesday, drone recovered from South China Sea, Japan-Kona flights resume, Hawaii has small population bump, lawmaker sponsors albatross cruelty bill, Kauai mayor to veto alcohol golf course bill, sewer rate increase for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy U.S. Navy
Drone recovered from China, courtesy U.S. Pacific Fleet
U.S. Pacific Fleet released photos today of a Navy “ocean glider” unmanned underwater vehicle taken Dec. 15 by China — leading to U.S. accusations that the sovereign vessel had been unlawfully seized. Star-Advertiser.

The USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center will be closed Tuesday due to a visit by President Barack Obama and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the National Park Service said. Star-Advertiser.

Newly found Hawaiian fish is named after the president who expanded its sanctuary. Star-Advertiser.

Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have named a fish after President Obama. Hawaii Public Radio.

The population of Hawaii grew by about 3,400 people between July 2015 and this July. The current estimate for the daily population, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, is 1,428,557. Civil Beat.

Federal figures show more people are leaving Hawaii for the mainland than coming to live in the state. Associated Press.

Maui and Kauai were in the top 10 least affordable counties according to a new report by ATTOM Data Solutions. Pacific Business News.

For the first time in nearly a decade, the state Environmental Council’s 15 seats are full thanks to a slew of appointments by Gov. David Ige. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers to consider doubling funds to state-funded drug rehab centers. Hawaii News Now.

Do Hawaii Prisons Overuse Solitary Confinement? Most of the islands’ maximum-custody inmates live in special holding cells for up to 23 hours per day. The policy bucks a national trend. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Amid leadership crisis, Honolulu Police Department spent $74K to improve image. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu taxpayers are still paying Police Chief Louis Kealoha's salary even though he temporarily stepped down from his position. KITV.

The Honolulu Police Department’s reputation has taken a hit with the chief and four officers being targeted in a federal investigation. Hawaii News Now.

The day after Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha took leave amid a growing public corruption case, his wife remains on the job as a deputy city prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

Court cases dealing with evictions on Oahu are down by 25 percent since April with the help of $4.7 million in state funds used to help families stay in their homes. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu has been designated as a “High Performer” by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Section Eight Management Assessment Program for the sixth year in a row, recognizing the city’s ability to provide rent subsidies for low-income households. Pacific Business News.

An attempt by the Friends of Makakilo to stop the 11,750-home Hoopili project planned for Leeward Oahu and to limit the Honolulu rail line failed Wednesday after the Honolulu Ethics Commission ruled that key City Council votes enabling the projects should not be overturned. Star-Advertiser.

Houston’s NRG Energy Inc., which recently took over ownership of the bankrupt SunEdison Inc.’s large solar farm projects in Hawaii, including some that have been stalled, is making moves to restart these stalled projects, Pacific Business News has learned.

Honolulu officials have released a “Blaisdell Center Master Plan Feasibility Study and Conceptual Land Use Plan,” which they say calls for the Arena and Concert Hall “to be retained and renovated.” Civil Beat.

Lawmaker will introduce 2 bills in response to albatross cruelty case. KITV.

A 19-year-old college student has been charged with animal cruelty, nearly a year after seabirds were found dead at a Hawaii nature reserve. Associated Press.

Hawaii

At around noon Wednesday, the first international flight in half a dozen years arrived at the Kona International Airport at Keahole, bringing with it 280 passengers — a full flight — to the Big Island from Japan. West Hawaii Today.

A white-tented temporary customs inspection station at Kona International Airport processed incoming visitors Wednesday after Hawaiian Airlines’ inaugural nonstop flight from Haneda International Airport in Tokyo touched down shortly after noon. Star-Advertiser.

The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission is reviewing a proposed radiation monitoring plan for Pohakuloa Training Area. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim’s first Cabinet appointee was easily confirmed Wednesday by the County Council, but at least one future nominee might find the going a little more difficult. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaii Water Service Co. is seeking sewer rate increases phased in over five years that would more than double its revenues from nearly 880 residential, business and government customers in Pukalani. Maui News.

Maui County is slowly on its way to having an electricity-generating facility that will power the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility as well as produce fertilizer that the county could sell. Maui News.

A complaint against Maui County Council Chairman Mike White was filed with the Board of Ethics on Tuesday questioning White’s declaration to continue to serve as council chair for the next two-year term before formal public hearings or votes on leadership by the full council, according to a news release sent by the complainant. Maui News.

Maui Ocean Center has a special permit to collect coral, which is otherwise strictly prohibited.  The team got to be part of a coral recovery operation at multiple harbors across the state, after damage from the 2011 tsunami. Maui Now.

Kauai

In the days following Mayor Bernard Carvalho’s announcement he plans to veto the bill allowing alcohol to be served at Wailua Golf Course, some Kauai County Councilmembers say his reasons are unclear. Garden Island.

The only way for Alakai O Kauai Public Charter School to open next fall is for the school to move into an already existing structure. Garden Island.

County announces holiday closures. Garden Island.

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Hawaii last U.S. state to ban sex trafficking, RIMPAC war games kick off with 26 nations, employees' marijuana use rises, he said, she said in Kenoi ethics case, Maui doctors leaving, Kauai police body cameras at issue, Kilauea lava marches to the sea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS America at Pearl Harbor (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jacob Holloway)
Hawaii has become the last state in the nation to explicitly ban sex trafficking. Gov. David Ige signed the bill into law Tuesday. It makes sex trafficking a violent crime and class A felony, expands the statewide witness protection program to include sex trafficking and provides victims access to criminal injury compensation. Associated Press.

County police departments have until Sept. 1 to report to the Hawaii attorney general’s office the number of untested rape kits that they have in storage under legislation signed into law Tuesday by Gov. David Ige. The measure is among seven bills that Ige signed into law Tuesday that were backed by the Hawaii Women’s Legislative Caucus, a bipartisan group composed of female legislators in the House and Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Starting in January, moped owners in Hawaii will need to pay for annual registration and inspections, plus get plates for their vehicles — similar to the state’s existing requirements for cars, trucks and motorcycles. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Scott Swift said Tuesday he wants all 26 nations participating in RIMPAC military exercises in Hawaii to leave better prepared to respond to humanitarian crises. Associated Press.

The head of U.S. Pacific Fleet opened the big Rim of the Pacific exercise Tuesday by downplaying a South China Sea rift with China and talking not about what divides navies in the region, but what unites them. Star-Advertiser.

RIMPAC is the largest international maritime exercise and it happens right here in Hawaii waters. KITV.

The use of marijuana among Hawaii workers is the highest it’s been in three years, a new study shows. Star-Advertiser.

Friends In High Places Helped HECO Tighten Its Grip On Hawaii. The federal government’s takeover of Hawaii proved extremely fortuitous for Hawaiian Electric. So was the involvement of leading local families. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Two of Gov. David Ige’s most decisive moments are not winning legislative praise and both may be in trouble. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: The Hawaii Ethics Commission has been through some tough times recently. It’s had to deal with hostile public reaction to an unpopular ruling that had effectively blocked educational trips for public school students, the departure of its executive director and continued pressure from legislators who believe several commission rulings improperly impinge on legislative prerogatives. And two recent court rulings — one local, one federal — indicate more troubles ahead for the commission. Civil Beat.

Oahu

On July 1, Kirk Caldwell received a 5 percent pay increase as Honolulu mayor. His base salary is now $164,928 a year. But the mayor draws his biggest paycheck not from city and county taxpayers but from a major financial institution in the state. Civil Beat.

Faced with huge weekend crowds and growing piles of rubbish at Makua Beach, state parks officials say they plan to impose restrictions on camping at the remote coastal area near Kaena Point. Star-Advertiser.

Median prices hit record highs for both single-family homes and condominiums sold on Oahu during June, according an analysis by the Honolulu-based real estate company Locations LLC. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu is the ninth-most expensive rental market in July among the 100 largest U.S. cities. The average monthly rent payment in Honolulu is $1,840 for a 1-bedroom apartment, down 1.1 percent from June, and $2,600 for a 2-bedroom apartment, up 1.2 percent. Pacific Business News.

A global conference with thousands of dignitaries and attendees will be hosted by the state in less than 60 days.   As HPR’s Wayne Yoshioka reports, the City and County unveiled its general plans today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

An ethics complaint was filed against one of Hawaii County’s Board of Ethics members. Kapaau resident Lanric Hyland, who is pursuing a separate ethics complaint against Mayor Billy Kenoi for misuse of his county purchasing card, is alleging board vice chairman Ken Goodenow has not been impartial on the issue. Tribune-Herald.

Developers of a 58-home subdivision planned for Alii Drive are asking for a pass on some of the conditions that were set when they first applied for rezoning. West Hawaii Today.

Lava is less than 1.1 miles from the ocean as the 61g flow has crossed half way across the coastal plain near Kalapana. Big Island Video News.

The lava flow from Kilauea’s Pu‘u ‘O‘o vent doesn’t appear to be wasting much time getting to the ocean. As of Tuesday afternoon, the flow had traveled about halfway across the coastal plain with about a mile of terrain separating it from the island’s edge, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The future of Maui Medical Group's obstetrics and gynecology department grew more uncertain last week, with a third, part-time physician now scheduled to leave by July 31, Maui Medical officials said Thursday. Maui News.

Maui Medical Group is scrambling to fill positions in its obstetrics and gynecology department in response to the loss of yet another doctor. Associated Press.

Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Centers has launched a new phone line for community members who need to inquire about homeless services. Maui News.

Gov. David Ige has ordered that US and state of Hawai‘i flags today will be flown at half-staff out of respect for the late former Maui County Mayor Elmer Cravalho, who died on June 27, 2016. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Office of the Mayor is examining a ruling by the Intermediate Court of Appeals which said that the Kauai Police Commission — not the mayor — has the power to suspend and discipline the police chief. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s police union is taking its fight over officer-worn body cameras to state court, in a case that could have ramifications for how the technology is used by county police departments across the islands. Civil Beat.

Lanai

Habitat for Humanity Maui has extended its reach across the Auau Channel to enable low-income Lanai residents to own homes through their "sweat equity" and help from their neighbors. Maui News.

Friday, June 17, 2016

Train to nowhere: Honolulu rail could stop miles short of destination, Chinese RIMPAC warships on the way, Thirty Meter Telescope hearing today in Hilo, Kauai seeks road repair fund without GET, Schatz wants expanded marine sanctuary, Ige signs CARE Act, other bills, lawsuits challenges Thielen candidacy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy HART, as edited
HART rail transit map, with edits
With rail facing a more than $1 billion budget hole, Honolulu’s top elected leaders now aim to stop construction four miles and eight stations short of what was planned, leaving crews to build the most challenging, expensive and critical stretch at some future date, if possible. Star-Advertiser.

In an abrupt turnaround, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Thursday he supports cutting the city’s rail line nearly five miles short and stopping the elevated guideway at Middle Street in light of an estimated $1.5 billion budget shortfall and pressure from the feds. Civil Beat.

In a significant shift, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the city must live between "revenue boundaries" and should focus on shortening the rail route so that it ends at Middle Street rather than Ala Moana Center. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is urging the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation to hold a public meeting that would consider ending rail at Middle Street, at least for now. KHON2.

Buildings have been knocked down and businesses have moved to make way for the rail. So now that it looks like rail will not make it past Middle Street, businesses that have already been bought out or forced to leave are left wondering what happens now. KHON2.

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A Chinese flotilla participating in the upcoming Rim of the Pacific maritime exercises left port Wednesday and will meet up with two U.S. Navy destroyers for the sail back into Pearl Harbor later this month, the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

The Governor signed  the so-called Care Act into law, making Hawai'i the 31st state to mandate caregiver requirements for hospitals. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. David Ige Thursday signed Senate Bill 2453 authorizing alternative sentencing for aquatic violations. The new law provides clear legal authority to judges, allowing them to more effectively tailor sentences when aquatics statutes are violated. Associated Press.

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U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz made the proposal to expand the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument official Thursday in a letter to President Barack Obama. Schatz called for the monument to grow to 582,578 square miles, which would make it the world’s largest marine protected area. Civil Beat.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz on Thursday joined Native Hawaiian groups and environmentalists working to expand Papahanaumo- kuakea Marine National Monument and make it the largest marine sanctuary on Earth. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz is proposing to expand one of the world’s largest marine conservation areas in a way that preserves some fishing grounds for local fishermen. Associated Press.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz threw his support behind the expansion of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument Thursday in a proposal sent to President Barack Obama. Garden Island.

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Hawaiian Airlines’ pilots union, claiming that further mediation would be futile in its contract negotiations with the company, has petitioned the federal government to be released from mediation and instead be offered arbitration. Star-Advertiser.

The head of the military agency that searches for and identifies the remains of missing servicemen is resigning after just one year to take over a troubled nonprofit that cares for wounded troops. Associated Press.

Alternate Energy Inc., the Honolulu solar energy company that recently reached a $38,000 settlement with state regulators for allegedly misrepresenting information related to requirements for interconnecting solar energy systems, is blaming Hawaiian Electric Co. for creating the issue, one of its executives told Pacific Business News on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A Democratic state senator is the target of a lawsuit that seeks to keep her name off the 2016 election ballot. Sen. Laura Thielen, who represents a district that includes Kailua, Lanikai, Waimanalo and Hawaii Kai, is accused of submitting incomplete nomination papers to the state Office of Elections. Civil Beat.

Djou Challenges Mayor To Call For Return of Honolulu Ethics Director. The mayoral challenger says Chuck Totto’s resignation was “the direct result of political pressure from the administration.” Civil Beat.

Portable toilets, public showers, better coordination between businesses and even a government-sanctioned tent city were among the ideas proposed by lawmakers Thursday to address concerns about a growing — and increasingly hard-core — homeless population in Iwilei. Star-Advertiser.

BIC Tacos will open its second location on June 27 in the former Bistro! Downtown ground-floor space at the Davies Pacific Center office building in Downtown Honolulu, its owner told Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

More than 80 demonstrators waved signs in support of the Thirty Meter Telescope in Hilo on Thursday. This comes just a day before DLNR is scheduled to hold a hearing in Hilo to decide whether or not to allow the telescope to be built atop Mauna Kea, land Native Hawaiians deem sacred. Hawaii News Now.

The management of a charter school on the Big Island faced criticism from the state teachers’ union and state education officials during a State Public Charter School Commission meeting Thursday. Civil Beat.

Ka‘u Learning Academy’s first year of operations was “very challenging” for the school and the state’s Public Charter School Commission, staff monitoring the school’s operations and finances said this week. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council passed a resolution Wednesday that authorizes the administration to negotiate for the purchase of land at Hakalau Point. Big Island Video News.

Internship program relies on Thirty Meter Telescope: Loss of key contributor would impact aspiring scientists, engineers. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A joint filing with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals by the state and the United Public Workers on Wednesday reports "productive discussions" on a possible settlement of a dispute stemming from Kaiser Permanente taking over operations of Maui County public hospitals. Maui News.

Testifiers urged the Maui County Council's Water Resources Committee Wednesday not to go forward with amendments that would revise water allocation standards in the "Show Me the Water" bill and to halt any related action until the water department's Water Use and Development Plan is completed. Maui News.

The Metropolitan Planning Organization will be meeting at 9 a.m. Monday to discuss its purpose and operational document and its budget. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai residents may decide how they want the county to pay for road repair. During the Kauai County Council meeting Wednesday, the council unanimously voted to approve a resolution that proposed putting a County Roads Resurfacing and Reconstruction Backlog Fund on the charter, for residents to vote on in November. Garden Island.

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Indictment likely for Honolulu police chief, Kauai kills general excise tax increase, China still set for RIMPAC, attorney general had investigated former state auditor, lawmakers quietly oppose marine protection expansion, state Supreme Court to hear 2014 election case, new rules for Hawaiian Home Lands, Maui lets lifeguards get raises, Honolulu's rising middle class, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Uptown shops in Waikiki © 2016 All Hawaii News
In cities across America, the middle class is hollowing out. However, Honolulu’s middle class appears to be increasing. Associated Press.

Amid the flurry of final votes on hundreds of bills last week, Hawaii lawmakers privately weighed whether to sign a letter to President Obama that Rep. James Tokioka was circulating during the last few days of the legislative session. The letter called on the president not to consider expanding the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument, stating that “there is no scientific justification or conservation benefit in doing so.” Civil Beat.

Hundreds of the world’s top ocean scientists will gather in Honolulu next month for the 13th International Coral Reef Symposium. It’s the first time the conference will be held in Hawai‘i. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Senate President Ron Kouchi has a confidential report in his possession that involves possible wrongdoing in the state Auditor’s Office. The report is the result of a Hawaii Attorney General’s Office investigation. Civil Beat.

The federal government for the first time has developed an administrative rule to provide more clarity in implementing the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, the federal law that established a land trust to benefit Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige announced Wednesday that he has signed House Bill 1581 to help expedite the resolution of disputes on actions by state agencies. The new law, which takes effect Aug. 1, allows contested case hearings before the commissions on Water Resource Management, Land Use, Public Utilities, the Hawaii Community Development Authority and cases involving conservation districts to be directly appealed to the Hawaii Supreme Court, according to a release from the governor’s office. Civil Beat.

The U.S. invitation allowing China to participate in the upcoming Rim of the Pacific maritime exercises off Hawaii appears to be holding — even as American accusations fly that China is militarizing the South China Sea, while China maintains America has no business “provoking the new maritime order.” Star-Advertiser.

Struggling U.S. and international stock markets are dragging down Hawaii’s largest public pension portfolio. The state Employees’ Retirement System fund eked out a 0.6 percent gain in the first three months of 2016 but is in danger of finishing the fiscal year ending June 30 with its first loss since 2012, according to a report presented to ERS trustees Tuesday by Portland, Ore.-based Pension Consulting Alliance Inc. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s judicial system ranks among the top three in the country when it comes to access to justice, according to the National Center for Access to Justice’s latest state-by-state ranking. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, deputy city Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, have hired a prominent criminal defense attorney to represent them in the potential federal criminal case against them. In an interview Wednesday with Hawaii News Now, attorney Myles Breiner said he and the Kealohas expect there will be a grand jury indictment in the case.

Extra-tall towers are out, but the density of buildings could double and include less parking in some parts of Kakaako under new proposed rules for development tied to the city’s rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii regulators unveiled an update Wednesday for the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako’s transit-oriented development plan calling for diverse residential building types, ground-oriented family housing near transit stations, additional reserved housing, grocery stores, cultural and community amenities, food trucks and spaces for artists. Pacific Business News.

Ross Dress for Less on Ward Avenue in Honolulu is expected to be displaced by the Honolulu rail transit project that’s being built from West Oahu to Ala Moana Center. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii lawmakers sent a strong message last week to two brothers who claim to own portions of eight streets in Kakaako where they started charging for parking six years ago after decades of free public use. Star-Advertiser.

Repairs to a collapsed pier at Waianae Boat Harbor have finally been approved. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Supreme Court has agreed to hear a complaint questioning the residency status of Ron Gonzales, who in 2014 unsuccessfully challenged Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille for the District 9 council seat. West Hawaii Today.

What started as a bill to increase County Council terms from two years to four has morphed through a series of compromises into a bill adding one more two-year term, so council members would be eligible to serve 10 consecutive years before being term-limited. West Hawaii Today.

Native Hawaiian activists drew closer to their goal of barring further geothermal development on Hualalai, following a hearing Wednesday in the Environmental Court. West Hawaii Today.

The design, engineering and potential capabilities of the Thirty Meter Telescope were front and center Wednesday at the West Hawaii Civic Center. Telescope system scientist Warren Skidmore walked about two dozen people through the technical aspects of the 180-foot tall, $1.4 billion project, which, if built, would be the second largest telescope on Earth, behind a 39- meter scope being constructed by European interests in Chile. West Hawaii Today.

For almost 16 miles of coastline stretching north from South Point, there is no public access to the shoreline. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

After hearing more than an hour of testimony from lifeguards and their supporters, the Budget and Finance Committee today recommended approval of funding for the ocean safety labor contract by a unanimous 6-0 vote. Maui Now.

Pay raises awarded to hundreds of lifeguards and law enforcement officers statewide cleared a major hurdle on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The 70 unit WaiÊ»ale Affordable Housing project proposed for development on 10.36 acres just north of the WaikapÅ« Gardens subdivision on Maui, surfaces for consideration at the Maui County Council’s Land Use Committee meeting at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18, in the Council Chamber. Maui Now.

The Maui Planning Commission advanced two proposed Kihei projects Monday, approving the 129-unit Kamaole Pointe workforce housing complex and recommending a zoning change for the 22,000-square-foot Kihei Wellness Center. Maui News.

Maui County has agreed to pay $24,000 in damages and to enter into a three-year consent decree to settle an age discrimination lawsuit that alleged the Maui Police Department failed to hire a qualified 45-year-old Hawaii resident as a police officer. Maui News.

Kauai

After two hours of discussion during committee Wednesday, Kauai council members voted 4-3 to recommend killing a proposed bill that would increase the General Excise Tax. Garden Island.

Mason Chock is seeking re-election to the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Paul Cienfuegos, a community activist from Portland, Oregon, is on Kauai for one reason: he says there’s another way to shut the door on unwanted corporate industry. Garden Island.