Green pushes national agenda, hearings start today on Young Brothers' 27% shipping rate increase, Hanabusa quits HART board, Chief Justice Recktenwald forced to retire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

'There Can Be Peace': Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green Wants To Heal The Country. In a wide-ranging conversation, the governor makes it pretty clear where his head is at when it comes to combining his ongoing efforts for Hawaiʻi with his future national ambitions. Civil Beat.

Retiring chief justice led with kindness, compassion, wisdom. Mark E. Recktenwald, who turns 70 on Oct. 8, will retire Tuesday due to the state’s mandatory retirement age of 70 for justices and judges. Star-Advertiser.

Choy fired while suing Hawai‘i Tourism Authority for retaliation. Isaac Choy, a former state tax director and state legislator, was terminated from his job at the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority effective Sept. 15, according to a motion to file an amended complaint in his whistle-blower lawsuit. Star-Advertiser. KITV4. 

Young Brothers shipping company proposes a rate increase to shore up finances. The state Public Utilities Commission is holding a weeklong hearing starting today on Young Brothers’ request to raise its rates. The shipping company asked the commission to approve a 27% rate increase last year.  Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. 

State Tries To Seal Foster Care Files To Protect Info It Already Revealed. When Civil Beat sought exhibits in the trial of an abusive Hawaiʻi foster dad, the Attorney General’s Office intervened to prevent “family trauma” from becoming public. It already had. Civil Beat.

Hawaii consumers hit by higher prices brace for more. Last week, UHERO forecast a bleak economic future for Hawaii for the rest of the year and into 2026 with more job losses expected as federal immigration agents continue to deport immigrants and more federal workers are expected to end their job extensions on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Keeping Hawai‘i Convention Center repairs on track is vital to stemming tourism losses, officials say. The modified closure of the Hawai‘i Convention Center over at least the next two years will cost the visitor industry hundreds of millions in lost revenue, and a lack of confidence in the state-run project’s timeline is putting future bookings at risk. Star-Advertiser.

Developers seeking to build affordable housing reach new heights. Demand for affordable housing in Hawaiʻi is rising, and so is the number of developers seeking to meet that demand. And now federal changes could mean more housing built.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii schools are climbing back from pandemic slump. The 2025 Strive HI report shows that math proficiency climbed to 41% in the 2024-2025 academic year, science to 43% and language arts proficiency saw a slight increase to 53%, meaning they met benchmarks set by the state Department of Education. Star-Advertiser.

Health care student loans to be paid by year-end. The fourth and final student loan payments for the first 780 Hawaii health care workers has been delayed but are now expected by the end of October, or at least the end of the year, according to the doctor in charge of overseeing the two-year program designed to keep and recruit workers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Colleen Hanabusa resigns from HART board. Colleen Hanabusa, chairperson of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board of directors, is resigning from the body that governs construction of the more than $10 billion Skyline rail project, officials announced at Friday’s HART meeting. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Affordable apartments in Makiki billed as first of many by partnership. The partnership between Tradewind Capital Group and Stanford Carr Development recently received state financing commitments to fund nearly all of the estimated $148 million cost to build their initial tower. Star-Advertiser.

Nonprofits anticipate hunger to worsen in Hawaii. Thousands of people filled the Hawai‘i Convention Center on Saturday for the return of the Empty Bowl fundraiser, where guests selected handmade bowls crafted by local potters and enjoyed soups donated by more than a dozen restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

This Kāneʻohe Road Is Overdue For Repair. Kea’ahala Road connects Kāneʻohe town to major state facilities, but it’s been 20 years since it was properly repaved, and sidewalks are impassable for many.  Civil Beat.

State looks for lessee to revamp and operate Mālaekahana campground. The 36-acre recreation spot in Kahuku closed in 2023 for infrastructure upgrades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Residents reeling after being told to vacate Honolulu apartment building within days. A letter from the owner of Union Plaza posted on Saturday night said residents had until Tuesday to get out.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Big Island Housing Scandal Stalls Plans For Apartments. The affordable rentals in Kailua-Kona were supposed to be ready in 2024 and cost $50 million. The developer now hopes to finish in 2027 at a cost of $81 million. Civil Beat.

Keauhou Bay development clears another hurdle. Kamehameha Schools is advancing plans for a resort development on lands above Keauhou Bay, following the county Planning Department’s acceptance of the project’s final environmental impact statement. Tribune-Herald.

Monterey Bay Aquarium granted permit to collect marine life off Kona coast. The Board of Land and Natural Resources has approved a special activity permit allowing George Peterson, director of Marine Operations at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, to collect, possess and transport various regulated and nonregulated marine organisms off the coast of West Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Tokuda discusses shutdown threat, health care cuts during Hilo visit. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda met with the Tribune-Herald on Wednesday during a visit to Hilo, where she discussed the potential for a federal government shutdown, ongoing attacks on Congress, the fight to preserve health care funding and efforts by states to shift the balance of power ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Tribune-Herald.

AG, county reach agreement over HPD internal records. The Hawaii Police Department and the state attorney general have come to an agreement regarding statements made by four HPD officers in an internal affairs investigation of alleged misconduct regarding events in May 2023. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State mulls rescue help for parched Maui water system. Over 30 years ago, state leaders saw a need to take over Hawaii plantation-era water systems and fallow farmland to support diversified agriculture, and now one such water system that’s become a drain on Maui’s economy is for sale. Star-Advertiser.

Paia Elementary cleans up from nearby brush fire; school to remain closed Monday. The school has now been closed for four school days since Tuesday’s Holomua wildfire burned 400 acres and led to the evacuation of 1,600 Paia residents.  Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Maui Now. 

Petition calls for Holomua Road closure after 380-acre fire; houseless community says it’s not to blame. Tania Kawa‘akoa shakes her head at the notion that one of the roughly 25 people who live in their cars, tents and temporary shelters along Holomua Road had anything to do with the 380-acre blaze that broke out Tuesday in the open fields above Pā‘ia and Kū‘au. Maui Now.

105 Hawaiian Homes agricultural leases on Maui mark first such awards in over 20 years. It was a day of celebration and anticipation for Maui ʻohana as they received their agricultural lot awards in two homestead projects. Some were on the Hawaiian Homes waitlist for nearly 50 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i Agribusiness Development Corp. to hold first board meeting on Maui, Oct. 16. The Hawai‘i Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC) will hold its next board of directors meeting on Maui, marking the first time the state agency has convened on the island. Maui Now.

Kauai

High Enterococcus fecal indicating bacteria measured at Morgan’s Pond in September. This month 12 of the 29 sites tested had bacteria concentrations higher than the Hawaii state standard (130 mpn) and 14 of the 29 had geometric means high enough to put them on the chronically polluted list. Garden Island.

Scheduled Kaua‘i lane closures on state roadways for Sept. 29 to Oct. 3. Hawai‘i Department of Transportation announces the following lane closures and road work projects for state roadways on the Garden Isle during the week of Sept. 29 to Oct. 3. Kauai Now.

Land transferred to Native Hawaiians, Delta coronavirus variant detected, Hanabusa rail contract may be illegal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland

Interior secretary lauds land transfer to Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. The federal government is transferring 80 acres on Oahu, with the potential to provide homesteads for 200 to 400 Native Hawaiian families, to the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Biden administration executives announced Monday. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Panel To Examine Audit Of Agribusiness Development Corp. The appointed House committee members will also investigate the audit of the DLNR’s Special Land Development Fund. Civil Beat.

Gov. Ige faces growing calls to veto bill eliminating an anti-tobacco trust fund. The fund has $43 million which goes toward smoking cessation programs and community interventions. Hawaii News Now.

Three armed F-22 fighters launched Sunday from Honolulu at request of FAA. Officials today would not disclose why three missile-armed Hawaii Air National Guard F-22 fighters were scrambled Sunday afternoon for an “irregular air patrol” requested by the Federal Aviation Administration. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gas utility to be sold for $514 million. The owner of Hawaii Gas announced Monday that it intends to sell the business to a private equity firm, giving the utility established in 1904 its fourth owner over the past two decades. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Interisland Travel Restrictions Ended in Hawai´i. All restrictions on interisland travel throughout Hawai´i are set be lifted on Tuesday, June 15, marking the first time state residents and qualified visitors will be able to move between islands entirely unencumbered in more than a year. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Federal and state numbers on Hawaii vaccination rates have differed for months. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts Hawaii on the verge of freedom from the complicated county tier systems that govern activities, with 68.4% of the state population, or 968,008 people, receiving at least one dose of a vaccine.  State Department of Health data says that just 61% of the population, or 860,369 people, has received at least one shot. Star-Advertiser.

Delta coronavirus variant, which can cause more severe illness, detected in Hawaii. The Delta variant of the coronavirus, which can spread more easily and cause more severe illness, has been detected in Hawaii in a person who was fully vaccinated, according to the state Department of Health. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Big Island Now. Garden Island. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

DOH Launches Healthy Hawaiʻi Strategic Plan and Unveils Vision for 2030. More than 200 stakeholders, advocates and visionaries across the state gathered virtually today to launch the Healthy Hawai‘i Strategic Plan 2030, a roadmap for improving the health of Hawai‘i residents by preventing and reducing chronic disease. Maui Now.

June 14, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 56 Cases. The confirmed cases included: 22 on O‘ahu (-1 probable); 13 on Maui (+1 probable); seven on Kaua‘i; four on Hawai‘i Island; and 10 in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed while out of state. Maui Now.

Oahu

Emails Show HART Leaders Always Wanted To Hire Hanabusa As Consultant. Newly released documents confirm what many suspected: that the contract and its restrictive qualifications were written with the former congresswoman in mind. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Security camera footage shows exchange before Honolulu police shooting of Lindani Myeni. Video footage from a surveillance camera at the home where a 29-year-old South African man was shot and killed by police following a fight with officers captures him entering the home and then quickly leaving while apologizing to the couple who called police. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Honolulu Rent and Utility Relief Program expands eligibility to 80% of median income. A household of four at 80% of the area median income earns about $100,700 a year. In comparison, a household of four at 50% of the area median income makes $62,950 a year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Owner of Pearlridge Center files for bankruptcy, faces $3.5B debt. The owner of the popular Oahu mall said that the closure of retail stores and restaurants along with stay-at-home orders during the pandemic significantly impacted business. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

Leeward Community College’s teacher education program gets national recognition. Leeward Community College is trying to tackle the teacher shortage by offering flexible, affordable paths into the profession that are designed for Hawaii’s working people. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Domestic violence claims 2 lives in Hilo police shootout. A Hilo family lost a grand­father and a son to a deadly cycle of domestic violence Sunday night when a 91-year-old man suffered an apparent heart attack while a 34-year-old felon with multiple convictions for household abuse died in a shootout with police officers responding to a call that he was assaulting his mother. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

50-year-old Chinese national indicted for conspiracy. A 50-year-old Chinese national was indicted Thursday on a single count of conspiracy to commit money laundering for allegedly stealing millions from the grass and seed company he worked for and hiding the money by investing in six Hawaii Island real estate projects. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Five HCCC inmates granted early release following outbreak. Nearly a dozen inmates at the Hawaii Community Correctional Center have filed motions for early release amid an ongoing COVID-19 outbreak at the Hilo jail. Tribune-Herald.

County moving forward with ADA compliance project at Laaloa Bay Beach Park. The Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking a special management area use permit to allow for some $930,000 in improvements at the 0.43-acre site located off Alii Drive that’s also known as Magic Sands Beach Park. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui’s Got A Brand New Ag Department. Now What? Voters in Maui County approved a charter amendment to create Hawaii’s first county-level agriculture department. Now organizers need to determine exactly what the agency will work on. Civil Beat.

Public Feedback Sought on Broadband Connectivity Issues in Maui County. Council Chair Alice L. Lee today announced a new survey to gather feedback from residents and businesses on broadband connectivity issues. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Deciding What to Do With 417 Acres of Land Near Waimea. West Kauaʻi residents are envisioning a long-term plan for a 417-acre land parcel purchased by the county back in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hanalei access hours changed. The state Department of Transportation has modified the schedule for the single-lane public access to Kuhio Highway on either side of the Hanalei Bridge, effective last week. Garden Island.

Children among outbreak of new COVID-19 cases on Kauai. “Many of the new cases are children younger than 12-too young to be vaccinated,” Kauai District Health Officer Dr. Janet Berreman said. “They became ill because of an unvaccinated, infected adult in their home. Being vaccinated protects you, and those in your home.” KHON2.

Hanabusa rejects big contract to volunteer on HART board instead, football star Colt Brennan dies at 37, vaccine passport program takes first step, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa rejects $924,000 HART consulting job. Former Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa said Tuesday she will turn down a controversial $924,000 consulting contract with the city’s rail project and will instead serve as a volunteer board member. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.

State Launches Limited Inter-Island 'Vaccine Passport' System. Traveling between the Hawaiian Islands just got easier for people who have been vaccinated in Hawaii, but a major bump in travel demand isn’t likely to come until the entry process for trans-Pacific travelers becomes less complicated. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Big Island Video News. KITV4.

Hawaii football legend Colt Brennan, who led an unforgettable era for UH, dies at 37. Colt Brennan was a patient at a rehabilitation facility when he was found unconscious a few days ago. He died at Hoag Hospital in Newport, California. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Big Island Now.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

As more housing vouchers flow in, Hawaii needs landlords willing to take them. Another $152 million in federal rent and utility assistance is on its way to Hawaii ― along with $50 million in mortgage help for homeowners. Hawaii News Now.

Ex-police chief to lead board review on police shootings. A former Maui police chief was selected to lead the state board tasked with reviewing police shootings during the panel’s first meeting in 15 months, but any possible discussion of fatal police confrontations took place in private. Star-Advertiser.

Over $97M in federal funding headed to several higher education schools in Hawaii. Congressman Ed Case on Tuesday announced the release of $97,587,634 million from the U.S. Department of Education to several schools of higher education throughout Hawai'i. KITV4.

Incoming Hawaii Teachers Union Chief Offers Changes In Style Not Substance. HSTA Vice President Osa Tui Jr., registrar at McKinley High, will take the helm of the union in July. Civil Beat.

May 11, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 64 Cases (50 O‘ahu, 6 Maui, 3 Hawai‘i Island, 1 Kaua‘i, 4 Out-of-State). Maui Now.

Oahu

Hawaiian Electric objects to PUC conditions for approval of Kapolei battery project. Hawaiian Electric has filed a motion asking the state Public Utilities Commission to reconsider the operational and financial conditions it has attached to its approval of the Kapolei Energy Storage project. Star-Advertiser.

Facing serious fine, beach rental owner says he feels unfairly targeted. A beach rental shop in Waikiki is facing a huge fine for presetting lounge chairs and umbrellas before customers arrive. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Kai Public Library bookstore reopens after 14-month closure. The Hawaii Kai Public Library bookstore reopened on Monday, May 10, after a 14-month closure due to COVID-19. KHON2.

Officials make final push to get people vaccinated at key clinic in Leeward Oahu ahead of closure. A major vaccination clinic in Leeward Oahu is closing Thursday. The vaccine point of distribution at Leeward Community College opened up on April 20 and since then, they’ve given out more than 51,000 inoculations. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Carreira out as transit administrator: Mayoral administration remains tight-lipped. Brenda Carreira, the longest-serving Mass Transit administrator in more than a decade, is no longer at the helm of the troubled agency. West Hawaii Today.

HMC pre-schedules 700-plus COVID vaccine doses for keiki ages 12-17. Hilo Medical Center is preparing to vaccinate 2,000 people during its final mass vaccination clinic at the Edith Kanakaole Multi-Purpose Stadium on Saturday morning in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Kahuku Unit Trails Reopen in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Along with the Glover and Kona trails, the National Park service says the Visitor Contact Station will also reopen Thursday. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The state Department of Health has revoked the medical marijuana dispensary license of Pono Life Sciences Maui LLC, citing the company’s repeated failure to submit annual independent financial audits as required by law. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Maui Economic Opportunity will begin accepting applications for the federally funded energy credit assistance program on June 1. Eligible low-income homeowners will be able to apply for funds to pay their Hawaiian Electric or Hawaii Gas bills. Hawaii News Now.

New Species of “Water Bear” Found at Haleakalā, Maui, Named After Samuel ‘Ohu Gon. A new species of Tardigrada, a phylum of eight-legged segmented micro-animals also known as water bears, has been named after Dr. Samuel M. ‘Ohukani‘ōhi‘a Gon III, Senior Scientist and Cultural Advisor for The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Hawai‘i and Palmyra Chapter. Maui Now.

Kauai

Gas prices on Kaua‘i are higher this year compared to last year. The average price for Kaua‘i is at $4.01 per gallon compared to Oahu’s average at $3.766 per gallon, yet still cheaper compared to the Island of Hawaii which sits at $4.04 per gallon. Garden Island.

EPA Awards Kauaʻi $300,000 in Brownfields Funding To Clean Up Old Sugar Mill Site. Kauaʻi County will use the funds to focus on the Town of Kekaha, which includes an old sugar mill and herbicide mixing area. Maui Now. KHON2.

Grant funds available for water bills. The county Department of Water alerts customers that federal grant funds are available to assist with past-due bill payments through the County of Kaua‘i Coronavirus Rent and Utilities Assistance Relief Program. Garden Island.

Big HART contract for former chairwoman Hanabusa, Pearl Harbor sub commander removed from duty after suicides, red light cameras coming to Honolulu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Colleen Hanabusa courtesy photo

Colleen Hanabusa, ex-chairwoman of the rail board, gets $924,000 HART contract. Colleen Hanabusa, a former Hawaii congresswoman and former chairwoman of the board that oversees the city’s troubled rail project, was the only bidder on a contract worth $924,000 with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, which Hanabusa won. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

This Bill Aims To Prevent A Wave Of Evictions But Critics Say It Falls Short. The state eviction moratorium is currently expected to expire June 8 but could be extended through the summer. Civil Beat.

Counties eye hotel room tax hikes as state seeks to divert revenues to general fund. Currently, there is a 10.25% tax on all Hawaii transient accommodations like hotel rooms and vacation homes. House Bill 862 would give all that money to the state rather than the counties. However, to make up for the lost funds, counties would be able to impose their own additional hotel tax of up to 3% — bumping the total hotel room tax to more than 13% per night. Hawaii News Now.

How would President's plan impact education in Hawaii? Right now, about half of Hawaii's four-year-olds go to some kind of preschool. Under President Biden's plan more than 35,000 keiki, age 3 and 4 year old, could head to classrooms for free. So could tens of thousands of college students. KITV4.

Who Should Lead Hawaii Schools? State Lawmakers Have Some Ideas. A bill passed this week would establish new minimum qualifications for the school superintendent, drawing criticism of legislative overreach. Civil Beat.

Legislators approve measure to repeal tobacco prevention and control trust fund. A measure to repeal the Hawaii tobacco prevention and control trust fund passed final readings Tuesday in the state House and Senate. Tribune-Herald.

Rep. Lynn DeCoite Announces Intent to Vie for Senate District 7 Vacancy. State Representative Lynn DeCoite today announced her intent to vie for the Senate District 7 seat being vacated by Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English. Maui Now. KHON2.

Pearl Harbor submarine commander removed from duty. Capt. Michael Majewski on Tuesday relieved Cmdr. Joseph Lautenslager of his command of the USS Charlotte, which experienced the second armed watch stander suicide recently on a Pearl Harbor submarine in the shipyard. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s first COVID-19 child fatality is wake-up call. Hawaii’s first pediatric COVID-19 death this week was a wake-up call for parents that children are not immune to the disease. Star-Advertiser.

April 28, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 69 Cases (55 O‘ahu, 10 Maui, 1 Hawai‘i Island, 2 Kaua‘i, 1 Out-of-State); 3 Deaths. Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu prosecutors will conduct independent investigations of Honolulu Police Department’s fatal shootings. For the first time in more than 30 years, Honolulu prosecutors plan to conduct independent investigations of Honolulu Police Department shootings to determine whether criminal, civil or administrative action is warranted, starting with this month’s fatal shootings of 16-year-old Iremamber Sykap and 29-year old Lindani Myeni. Star-Advertiser.

Hearing set for ex-OHA aide accused of wire fraud. A hearing is set Friday for a former Office of Hawaiian Affairs aide accused of wire fraud. Court documents said Harleman used his firm, Precision Accounting Hawaii, to defraud an Oahu landscaping business out more than $415,000. Hawaii News Now.

Under state’s new red light camera program, tickets will follow car owners not drivers. After receiving funding from lawmakers, the state Transportation Department is preparing for the first installation of cameras to catch drivers who run through red lights on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu farmland owners pummel city effort to protect farmland. A flood of complaints has begun to flow from Oahu farmland owners who don’t want their property preserved for agricultural use, possibly in perpetuity. Star-Advertiser.

Proposal seeks new buffer for wind farms, residents. A proposal to create a larger buffer zone between new wind turbine developments and neighboring properties was tabled by the Honolulu Planning Commission Wednesday pending further investigation into the matter. Star-Advertiser.

261 complaints from a single person trigger crackdown on ‘unauthorized trees’. Some Pacific Palisades residents say the city is forcing them to cut down trees on city sidewalks fronting their homes. Hawaii News Now.

State agency looks to juice up affordable-housing fund. Hundreds of people who own affordable high-rise homes in Kakaako could soon have an opportunity to help produce new affordable housing for local residents. Star-Advertiser.

State Inspections Show History Of Neglect At Elderly Care Facility Facing Shutdown. Dignity Senior Living at Oceanside Hawaii appealed the order to close by Friday as residents scramble to find new housing. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Sexual assault on TheBus leaves Oahu teen shaken, father thanks bus driver for stepping in. An Oahu father is praising a city bus driver for stepping up and stopping the sexual assault of his daughter from going any further. KHON2.

Stage set for new Aloha Stadium redevelopment leadership. Hawaii lawmakers have fixed a kink in a state effort to redevelop Aloha Stadium and surrounding land in partnership with the private sector. Star-Advertiser.

City says repairs for Waialua Beach Road bridge are on track to be expedited. As residents and business continue to deal with traffic problems due to Waialua Beach Road bridge’s closure, the city announced that repairs will be expedited. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth says bill that nixes TAT allocations places intolerable strain on isle’s hospitality industry. Mayor Mitch Roth will ask Gov. David Ige to veto a pending bill in the state Legislature that would allow the state’s four counties to levy their own hotel taxes. Tribune-Herald.

Officials conduct sweep at condemned Hilo hotel. Officers from three law enforcement agencies conducted a dawn sweep of all 146 rooms at the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel on Thursday morning, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Maui

Maui County plans 30% rise in visitor tax if Gov. David Ige signs bill. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said he plans to increase the county’s transient accommodations tax by 30% if Gov. David Ige approves a bill that allows the counties to raise their own TAT. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Testifiers call for more in-depth study on Wailea condo project. Community members are calling for a 57-unit luxury condominium project in Wailea to undergo a longer, more in-depth study, especially with neighboring developments already built or on the horizon. Maui News.

Development Services Administration Moves Kahului Office to Maui County Service Center Location, May 3. The Department of Public Works’ Development Services Administration will move its Kahului office from 86 Kamehameha Avenue to its new location at the Maui County Service Center at 110 Ala`ihi St., Suite 203 on Monday, May 3. Maui Now.

Kauai

County has 7% of CARES Act funds remaining. The county has spent around 93% of its $28.7 million received from the state through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funds. Garden Island.

Rent-relief program on the horizon. Starting May 10, residents of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau with a demonstrated reduction in income due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible to apply for the County of Kauai’s 2021 Coronavirus Rental and Utility Assistance Program. Garden Island.

Hawaii shows that mail-in voting can work. Record turnout, smooth election. Plus latest COVID-19 counts and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

More than 406,000 ballots were cast. That’s a record number for a Hawaii primary. More than half of Hawaii’s registered voters, about 51 percent, cast their ballots in the state’s first mail-in primary. According to Political Analyst, Colin Moore, the last time we saw a turnout like this was in 1996. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii sees more than 40 percent increase in voter turnout with all mail-in primary. This year's primary saw a record turn out in voters for the state. Over 400,000 ballots were cast in this election compared to 286,000 in the 2018 primary, a 42 percent increase in voters. KITV4.

The Primary That Upset Hawaii’s Mango Cart. A desire for new blood felled or threatened political veterans and fueled the campaigns of hungry newcomers, all under a new system of voting. Civil Beat.

2020 Primary Election Results. KITV4.

Primary Election: Official state and county votes can be found here.

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How Bad Is Hawaii At Social Distancing? Here’s What The Data Shows. Mobility data gives us a clearer picture of just how much people have been moving around during the pandemic. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s weak contact tracing effort is hindering the control of coronavirus’ spread. Jendrick Paul, president of the Marshallese Community Organization of Hawaii, said Sunday that he’s worried state Department of Health contact tracers can’t keep up with the surge of coronavirus cases in Hawaii’s tightknit Pacific Islander community. Star-Advertiser.

The State Has A Plan For When To Reopen Or Reclose. Why Aren’t We Following It? Available data suggests Oahu should impose stricter measures, according to the state’s plan. Civil Beat.

‘We are super spreaders,’ says Dr. Scott Miscovich. Hawaii is veering into “super spreader” territory with the rise in COVID-19 cases. Hawaii health officials reported 152 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, raising the statewide total since the start of the pandemic to 3,498. Star-Advertiser.

152 New COVID-19 Cases in Hawai‘i (O‘ahu 147, Big Island 3, Maui 1, Kaua‘i 1). Hawai‘i has recorded another triple-digit day for new COVID-19 cases in the state.  Maui Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 9: 152 New Cases. Nearly all the cases were on Oahu, where hospitals are preparing for a surge in patients. Civil Beat.

The Latest: 152 New Cases; Health Director: Expect More Deaths As Surge Continues; 3 Inmates Positive. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Updated results confirm November runoffs for Blangiardi and Amemiya, and Alm and Kau. Honolulu mayoral candidates Rick Blangiardi and Keith Amemiya are headed to a Nov. 3 runoff with 25.6% and 20.2% of the vote respectively. Colleen Hanabusa remained in third place with 18.4% of the vote. Star-Advertiser.

Voters set up runoff for mayor between political newcomers: Blangiardi and Amemiya. Oahu voters, apparently fed up with the status quo and facing an uncertain economic outlook, threw their support in Saturday’s primary election behind two first-time political candidates who have promised change and a fresh perspective to old problems. Hawaii News Now.

Blangiardi and Amemiya discuss plans heading into Hawaii’s general election. Two mayoral candidates will be moving on to Hawaii’s general elections in November.  KHON2.

Tupola, Say win City Council seat outright; Espero and Augie T. advance to general. Former state representative and one-time Republican gubernatorial candidate Andria Tupola shot out to an insurmountable lead in her race for the Honolulu City Council’s District I seat early on Saturday night, handily winning the seat. Hawaii News Now.

Alm, Kau proceed to general election runoff in race for city prosecutor. Retired Judge Steve Alm and defense attorney Megan Kau will proceed to a general election runoff in the race for city prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

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Total of 6 inmates, 3 adult corrections officers at OCCC test positive for COVID-19. The Department of Public Safety confirms the number of COVID-19 cases at OCCC continues to grow. Hawaii News Now.

Liquor Commission shuts down 10 establishments for violating Mayor’s rules. The Honolulu Liquor Commission is strictly enforcing the mayor’s latest orders for bars to close down for three weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Several Hawaii breweries disagree with liquor commission shutting them down. Under Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s order issued at the end of July, he ordered the shut down of all bars for at least three weeks. KHON2.

Walmart Keeaumoku closes for cleaning; will reopen on Tuesday. The company confirmed the closure began at 2 p.m. on Sunday and will remain in place through Monday. It will reopen at 7 a.m. on Tuesday. Walmart would not confirm if this was in response to a positive case in an employee or not. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth, Marzo face runoff after defeating Kim for mayor. A countywide elected official with experience running a large government agency, or a fresh face with no government experience at all? That’s the choice facing Hawaii County voters in the Nov. 3 general election when they decide who will be the county mayor. West Hawaii Today.

Waltjen wins prosecutor’s race, narrowly avoids November runoff. Deputy Prosecutor Kelden Waltjen narrowly averted a runoff in the race for Hawaii County prosecutor after the second printout of primary election results was released Saturday night. Tribune-Herald.

County mulls suing companies for damage caused by climate change. While the Hawaii County Council passed a resolution last Wednesday to join a lawsuit by the City and County of Honolulu against a collective of fossil fuel companies, Hawaii County Corporation Counsel Joe Kamelamela said last week that the county will likely not join the Honolulu lawsuit but instead consider pursuing its own lawsuit. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Incumbents easily take top spots in council races. Maui County Council incumbents easily captured the most votes in three separate three-way races Saturday night. Maui News.

DeCoite leads Ritte by 91 votes in latest tally, though recount pending. Rep. Lynn DeCoite staved off a strong challenge from activist Walter Ritte in a Democratic race for House District 13 in a contest, though both candidates were awaiting the results of a mandatory recount Monday before calling the race. Maui News.

Hawaii 2020 Primary Election Results: Fourth Printout (11:44 a.m. Update). Maui Now.

Medical, work exemptions for quarantine order can be requested for trips to Maui County. Starting August 11, the partial quarantine order will take place. KHON2.

Kauai

On to the general election. Kaua‘i voter turnout was slightly less than the statewide turnout for the primary election, but 49% of registered voters had their ballots counted on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

County directors weigh in on housing resources. On Kaua‘i, there are 716 individuals receiving direct rental assistance through the county. Garden Island.

Solid Waste Division OT over budget again. The county Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division had a total overtime budget of $227,000 in fiscal year 2020. Garden Island.

Fewer Hawaii residents comply with mask order, Pompeo meets Chinese counterpart in Honolulu today, inter-island travel begins, cult leaves state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Discarded mask on Hawaii roadside ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii officials notice a worrisome trend: Fewer residents wearing masks. The governor’s emergency order requires face masks at most public settings. Hawaii News Now.

Retailers report resistance to the in-store mask requirement. Gov. David Ige’s Ninth Supplemental Proclamation related to the COVID-19 emergency specifically instructs employees and customers to wear masks and engage in social distancing. Star-Advertiser.

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Quarantine for neighbor island travel ends today. The state is lifting the 14-day interisland travel quarantine for Hawaii residents today, but trans-Pacific travelers won’t likely be welcomed back until August amid the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Interisland quarantine requirement is lifted. Though the two-week quarantine for interisland travelers has been lifted, Gov. David Ige warned Monday that it may be reinstated if the number of COVID-19 cases in the state rises too high. Tribune-Herald.

Planning to fly inter-island? Arrive at the airport early and don’t come if you’re sick. After two and a half months of mostly empty airports in Hawaii, the state is ending the 14-day mandatory quarantine for inter-island travelers on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Governor David Ige’s Update on Travel Requirements for Air Transportation. Maui Now.

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Hawaii Economy Faces ‘A Long Slow Road Back’. A wave of restaurant failures and bankruptcies is expected in the fall. When Hawaii finally opens for tourism, it’s likely to take years to build the visitor base to anything close to what it was before the COVID-19 crisis shut down the state’s travel industry, experts in that business say. Civil Beat.

Expanding Local Agriculture Into Major Economic Industry Poses Challenges. Sales of farm products currently represent just 0.6% of Hawaii gross domestic product. Experts say there are opportunities for it to grow, but substantial challenges as well. Hawaii Public Radio.

With some improvising, state agencies welcome thousands of workers back to the office. Tens of thousands of government employees are returning to the office as their administrators improvise to allow for social distancing. Hawaii News Now.

Lawsuit challenges Gov. David Ige’s emergency powers. Hawaii residents from Kauai and the Big Island have filed a lawsuit challenging Gov. David Ige’s emergency proclamations related to the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Nonprofits urge lawmakers to quickly commit federal funds to cope with social needs. With the state Legislature poised to meet again in less than a week, Hawaii’s nonprofit social service agencies are urging lawmakers to commit hundreds of millions of dollars in unspent federal funds to health care, housing, mental health services and other support for families that are struggling to survive the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Over 23,000 Hawaii small businesses tap $3 billion in federal aid. Federal financial aid for Hawaii small businesses affected by COVID-19 has grown to just over $3 billion, according to new U.S. Small Business Administration data. Star-Advertiser.

Face Masks, Temperature Checks: The New Reality For Summer School Students. The Department of Education’s in-person, summer learning hubs offer a trial run for how many schools may operate when they reopen in the COVID-19 era. Civil Beat.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to meet Chinese counterpart in Hawaii on Tuesday. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo will travel to Hawaii Tuesday for meetings with his Chinese counterpart, according to two people familiar with the plans, as tensions between the countries run high over trade, coronavirus, the future of Hong Kong and other issues. Bloomberg News.

The new normal: Hawaii National Guard training this year includes social distancing, masks. The Hawaii Air National Guard just completed its first unit training under COVID-19 guidelines. Hawaii News Now.

Over 200 Marshallese Stranded in Hawaiʻi Since March. The Marshall Islands is among only a few countries left in the world that are COVID-19 free. This is due in part to a strict travel ban that has left more than 200 Marshallese citizens stranded since March here in Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

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8 new coronavirus cases raise Hawaii’s statewide total to 736. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Monday: 8 New Cases. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

In race for mayor, Hanabusa clinches endorsement of ILWU. Honolulu mayoral candidate Colleen Hanabusa has picked up another big endorsement. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 142 is backing Hanabusa in her run for Honolulu mayor. Hawaii News Now.

2 possible COVID-19 cases being looked at in state-run public housing. The state announced eight new cases of COVID-19 Monday, June 15. Officials say three of the new cases are linked to a new income housing facility, but did not say exactly where. KHON2.

Kalihi’s Saint John the Baptist School to close after 60 years. After 60 years in Kalihi, Saint John the Baptist School is closing. In a letter to its school community earlier this month, administrators said the pandemic “significantly worsened” its already troublesome financial situation. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Carbon Nation leader pleads no contest to violating quarantine; group to leave state. A self-professed cult leader pleaded no contest Monday to violating the state’s mandatory 14-day coronavirus quarantine in a deal that would allow him and 20 followers to leave the state. Tribune-Herald.

Reported Cult Leader Sent Back to Mainland. Big Island Now.

Self-professed cult member, 20 followers leave for mainland after quarantine arrests. Hawaii News Now.

Group of travelers charged for violating quarantine order decide to leave Hawai'i. KITV4.

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Mayor explains why public swimming pools remain closed. While most businesses, operations and activities were permitted to reopen June 15 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, public swimming pools were not. The facilities have been closed since March. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kim Explains Why Public Swimming Pools Remain Closed. Big Island Video News.

Northbound traffic flow change on Alii Drive starts Wednesday. Northbound traffic on Alii Drive will be shifted to a temporary bridge in the vicinity of the Kona Tiki Hotel starting Wednesday as work progresses to replace a deteriorating culvert on the Waiaha Drainageway. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Launches Financial Opportunity Center to Help Residents Into Housing. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino today announced a partnership with the Hawai‘i Community Foundation and Hawaiian Community Assets to launch a Financial Opportunity Center to help thousands of residents into housing. Maui Now.

24 Hour Fitness on Maui closes as company files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The 24 Hour Fitness chain announced Monday that it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy relief due to the “disproportionate impact” of the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel workers rally for safe reopening, health care. Properties making changes that include more cleanings, shift to keyless entry. Maui News.

Maui hotel workers demonstrate for worker safety, reopening. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

EPA closes 16 Kauai cesspools and issues $55K in fines. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today said it has shut down 16 large-capacity cesspools on Kauai and issued $55,182 in fines to a resort management association. Star-Advertiser.

EPA to close 16 large cesspools on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

CASPER COVID-19 survey results announced. More than half, 57%, of Kaua‘i households have at least one person living in their home who has lost their job as a result of the pandemic, and the resulting economic strain is affecting the mental health of Garden Island residents. Garden Island.

Reforesting Hawaii, Kealoha allegedly assaulted in family fight, UH medical school may expand to Maui, vacation rentals to be curbed on Lanai, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Old growth forest on the Big Island ©2020 All Hawaii News

State reforestation effort hits milestone. A unique initiative partly fueled by charitable contributions has helped return a half-million native trees to deforested Hawaii ranch lands over the last decade. Star-Advertiser.

Legacy Reforestation Initiative Plants a Half Million Native Trees. More than 1,200 acres of former pastureland on both O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island have been reclaimed and returned to native forest. Big Island Now.

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Minimum Wage Bill Teed Up For House Vote. If also approved by the Senate and governor, Hawaii’s minimum wage would rise to $13 an hour by 2024. Civil Beat.

Minimum wage hike bill advances, but critics say it’s still not enough. A bill to hike Hawaii’s minimum wage is moving to the full house, but critics say it still falls short of what a person needs to live in the 50th state. Hawaii News Now.

Bill that would boost teachers’ pay moves forward. A proposal that would help improve teacher compensation has passed another hurdle in the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

Bill would dramatically expand preschool options in Hawaii. A bill that aims to make “early learning” programs available to all 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds by 2030 received wide support at its first hearing although issues need to be worked out, including funding and staffing given the teacher shortage. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bill resurfaces to protect medical cannabis cardholders. Lawmakers are taking another crack at a bill to prohibit employers from discriminating against workers who test positive for marijuana if they hold a prescription for cannabis. Star-Advertiser.

Bill raising smoking age to 25 dies in House. A bill to increase the minimum age to purchase tobacco and electronic smoking devices has been snuffed out — but the proposal’s introducer remains hopeful it will move this year. West Hawaii Today.

Airport Authority bill in limbo due to procurement code worries. For the first time in five years, no new bill in the state Legislature will seek to create an independent Hawaii airports corporation. Tribune-Herald.

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Kim Coco Iwamoto To Take On Scott Saiki. The community activist is challenging the speaker for his House seat. Civil Beat.

Building A Hawaiian Language Curriculum Classroom By Classroom. As Hawaiian immersion programs soar in popularity, the lack of a common curriculum remains a big challenge. Civil Beat.

A Big Island educator announces his run for an Office of Hawaiian Affairs seat on Sunday afternoon. Joshua Lanakila Mangauil is running for Hawai'i Island Trustee. KITV4.

As global coronavirus outbreak spreads, hoteliers watch for effects in Hawaii. Tourism executives across Hawaii are watching for economic sniffles from the coronavirus, but so far the state is inoculated against its worst effects. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

HART Employee Reported Improper Use Of Federal Funds In 2015. Worried about financial mismanagement, a HART employee said she was asked to resign when she spoke up. Civil Beat.

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Louis Kealoha allegedly assaulted by half brother, an HPD lieutenant. Disgraced former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha suffered facial injuries after allegedly being assaulted by his half brother, Andre Peters, an HPD lieutenant. Hawaii News Now.

HPD officer charged in connection with assault on half brother and former police chief Louis Kealoha. A Honolulu police officer has been charged with a misdemeanor in connection with an alleged assault on his half brother, Louis Kealoha, former Honolulu police chief. Star-Advertiser.

Half-brother of former Police Chief Louis Kealoha arrested for alleged abuse. A Honolulu Police Department lieutenant and half-brother of former Police Chief Louis Kealoha has been arrested for the alleged abuse against Kealoha. KHON2.

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Hanabusa: I don’t need ‘training wheels’ to serve as Honolulu’s mayor. Hanabusa was elected to the state Senate in 1998 representing Waianae, and previously served as the first female Senate president. She also represented Hawaii in Congress, but lost races for U.S. Senate and governor. Hawaii News Now.

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Debate Erupts Anew Over Dillingham Airfield After Two Killed In Small Plane Crash. Dillingham Airfield on Oahu’s North Shore has been closed following a plane crash that killed two people Saturday morning. Hawaii Public Radio.

In light of another Dillingham Airfield tragedy, Sen. Schatz calls for its closure. Uncertainty over the future of Dillingham Airfield has increased in recent weeks. And in light of Saturday’s latest tragedy, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz is calling for it to be shut down. Hawaii News Now.

Aviation community mourns 2 longtime pilots. As federal authorities begin investigating Saturday morning’s deadly crash near Dillingham Airfield, those who knew the two men in the plane have started paying tribute to the pair, whom they call experienced pilots and important members of Hawaii’s aviation community. Star-Advertiser.

Family, former aviation colleagues remember 2 killed in Mokuleia plane crash. Hawaiian Airlines, the former company of a pilot who was killed in Saturday’s Mokuleia plane crash, is remembering one of the victim’s lives for his dedication and passion for flying. Hawaii News Now.

Political leaders react to crash and the future of Dillingham Airfield. Politicians express condolences, thanks to rescuers, and opinions on if the airfield should close. KITV4.

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Feds plan catastrophe response using huge Kalaeloa Airport hangar. The state is leasing a 105,000-square-foot World War II hangar at Kalaeloa Airport to the federal government for emergency response to catastrophic natural or man-made disasters in the Pacific, with a focus on serving remote locations, including Hawaii and other U.S. interests in the region. Star-Advertiser.

Last Of Japanese Billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto's Kahala Properties Sold. he name Genshiro Kawamoto has been famous in Hawaii since the late 1980s, when the Japanese billionaire was emblematic of a wave of Japanese investment in the islands. He bought 30 homes in Kahala, which then did nothing but sit unoccupied and disintegrating, except for a brief time when he offered them for rent to Native Hawaiian families before scrapping that plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

TMT-related bills fail to gain traction. Although the controversy surrounding the Thirty Meter Telescope still looms large over the Big Island community, it has largely left the state Legislature this year. Tribune-Herald.

DLNR: Two Men Caught Taking 550 Tropical Fish In Kawaihae. Two men aboard the vessel “Masako” were cited by DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement at Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor on Thursday, after an inspection allegedly revealed aquarium fishing gear, including a small mesh net, and 550 live tropical fish of various species in the vessel’s hold. Big Island Video News.

Streamlining sign variances: Bill reverses 2004 measure putting council in charge. The public will have less opportunity to weigh in on the size, style and location of roadside signs under a streamlining measure making its way through the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Study examines coastal erosion, drawbacks of standard setback requirements. Research on the Big Island’s coastal erosion, led by a University of Hawaii at Hilo graduate student, is being used to shape county planning policies. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

UH Considers Expanding Medical School to Maui Amid Doctor Shortage. To combat Hawai’i’s worsening physician shortage, the University of Hawai’i is proposing to expand its John A. Burns School of Medicine to Maui. Maui Now.

Proposed satellite medical school on Maui could narrow gap between supply and demand. The gap between supply and demand for doctors in Hawaii has grown by 65% since 2010, reaching 507 full-time equivalent positions in 2019, according to the latest report from the Hawaii Physician Workforce Assessment Project, issued in December. Star-Advertiser.

UH seeks medical school expansion to Maui. Proposal to expand the University of Hawai'i John A. Burns School of Medicine to Maui to help tackle the state's worsening physician shortage. KITV4.

Hokama Introduces Moratorium for Transient Accommodation Permits on Lana‘i. Councilmember Riki Hokama introduced legislation to establish a moratorium on transient accommodation permits on the island of Lanaʻi, where no limits are currently established. Maui Now.

Tapestry to hang again on Council Chambers wall. A tapestry of the Maui County Seal, which was removed last year by former Chairwoman Kelly King over the objections of some members, will be returning to the Maui County Council Chambers following a vote by the members Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Akana is Kaua‘i DOCARE chief. Kaua‘i-born Brad “Kipi” Akana is the new Kaua‘i branch chief of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement. Garden Island.

16-month closure planned for Princeville Resort. The Princeville Resort, expected to close for renovations on May 1, has announced it plans to reopen as 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in November 2021. Garden Island.

Lanai

Hokama Introduces Moratorium for Transient Accommodation Permits on Lana‘i. Councilmember Riki Hokama introduced legislation to establish a moratorium on transient accommodation permits on the island of Lanaʻi, where no limits are currently established. Maui Now.