Update: Tulsi issues statement on Trump meeting

Gabbard © 2016 All Hawaii News

U.S. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today released the following statement on her meeting with President-elect Donald Trump regarding Syria:

"President-elect Trump asked me to  meet with him about our current policies regarding Syria, our fight against terrorist groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS, as well as other foreign policy challenges we face. I felt it important to take the opportunity to meet with the President-elect now before the drumbeats of war that neocons have been beating drag us into an escalation of the war to overthrow the Syrian government—a war which has already cost hundreds of thousands of lives and forced millions of refugees to flee their homes in search of safety for themselves and their families.

“While the rules of political expediency would say I should have refused to meet with President-elect Trump, I never have and never will play politics with American and Syrian lives.

“Serving the people of Hawaiʻi and our nation is an honor and responsibility that I do not take lightly.  Representing the aloha spirit and diversity of the people of Hawaiʻi, I will continue to seek common ground to deliver results that best serve all Americans, as I have tried to do during my time in Congress.

“Where I disagree with President-elect Trump on issues, I will not hesitate to express that disagreement.  However, I believe we can disagree, even strongly, but still come together on issues that matter to the American people and affect their daily lives. We cannot allow continued divisiveness to destroy our country.

“President-elect Trump and I had a frank and positive conversation in which we discussed a variety of foreign policy issues in depth. I shared with him my grave concerns that escalating the war in Syria by implementing a so-called no fly/safe zone would be disastrous for the Syrian people, our country, and the world. It would lead to more death and suffering, exacerbate the refugee crisis, strengthen ISIS and al-Qaeda, and bring us into a direct conflict with Russia which could result in a nuclear war. We discussed my bill to end our country’s illegal war to overthrow the Syrian government, and the need to focus our precious resources on rebuilding our own country, and on defeating al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other terrorist groups who pose a threat to the American people.

“For years, the issue of ending interventionist, regime change warfare has been one of my top priorities. This was the major reason I ran for Congress—I saw firsthand the cost of war, and the lives lost due to the interventionist warmongering policies our country has pursued for far too long.

“Let me be clear, I will never allow partisanship to undermine our national security when the lives of countless people lay in the balance."

Tulsi meeting Trump for job consideration, Speaker-emeritus Say residency cleared, friends remember former Kauai councilman Byum, new rules could hamper homeless efforts, unexploded ordnance found on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard © 2016 All Hawaii News

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, will be meeting with President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team Monday for a possible top job in the new administration, according to a report. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is meeting with President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team Monday for a possible top job in the new administration, a source said. CNN.

Commentary: Hawaii’s congressional delegation: 4 ambitious politicians jockeying for advantage. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Calvin Say’s legal battles over his residency appear to have been settled. The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously ruled in Hussey v. Say that the state House of Representatives “is the only body” that can decide whether the speaker emeritus satisfies the constitutional residency requirements of a sitting member. Civil Beat.

Members of Hawaii’s Board of Education say they’re frustrated with the state’s perennial teacher shortage, which has again resulted in hundreds of public school classrooms being staffed this school year with emergency hires and substitutes lacking proper teaching credentials. Star-Advertiser.

The CEO of Hawaiian Electric Co. says the utility remains committed to 100 percent renewable-energy dependence despite having a climate change denier as the nation's incoming president. Associated Press.

Eight Hawaii homeless shelters estimate they would be forced to collectively eliminate 662 beds under changes proposed by the state Department of Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Other States Are Shrinking Prison Populations — Why Not Hawaii? The Justice Reinvestment Initiative approved in 2012 was supposed to be a game-changer in the islands. It hasn’t been. Civil Beat.

Hawaii could improve on its laws to combat drunken driving by imposing tougher penalties for people who drive drunk with a child in the car, according to a new report by Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Accounting and General Services Director Douglas Murdock, who serves as the state comptroller, is stepping down today, the governor’s office announced. Gov. David Ige has appointed Roderick Becker, the state deputy budget director since December 2014, to replace Murdock. Civil Beat.

In a ghost town of dead coral off a remote Pacific island, scientists have found a bit more life. Associated Press.


Oahu

While some Honolulu rail leaders are encouraged by President-elect Donald Trump’s pro-infrastructure rhetoric, others are wary of how the new administration might react to a transit project that’s over budget, behind schedule and technically in breach of its federal funding deal. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate continues to drop, according to new numbers released in November, but this poses a challenge for new businesses popping up on Oahu. KHON2.

Jesse Souki, who held executive positions at several state agencies, could become the next head of the Hawaii Community Development Authority, the state agency regulating development in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako, the HCDA said this week. Pacific Business News.

City Emergency Services and Fire Department officials have agreed to compile a report looking into the feasibility of consolidating ocean safety services. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: It’s Time To Get Real About The Honolulu Zoo. The fifth director in six years has resigned, days after voters agreed to steer property taxes to a fund to help the zoo. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The Honaunau Rodeo Arena improvement project is finished, and on Saturday South Kona celebrated. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Billy Kenoi and Councilwoman Maile Medeiros David joined the South Kona rodeo community Saturday to celebrate the new and improved Honaunau Rodeo Arena. West Hawaii Today.

State and federal researchers confirmed that a giant ohia tree near Laupahoehoe was killed by rapid ohia death, marking the first known case of the plant disease in Hamakua. Tribune-Herald.

Widening of Highway 19, Queen Kaahumanu Highway, is likely to take a year longer than initially expected. West Hawaii Today.

Construction for a portion of a frontage road that will run along Queen Kaahumanu Highway is expected to begin today. West Hawaii Today.

A Public Meeting on a Draft Environmental Assessment for new roads in and around Fern Acres was held last week at the Mountain View Elementary School cafeteria. Big Island Video News.

Cooperative exercise center offers classes, studies, support. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Another workforce housing project has had prospective affordable homebuyers pre-qualify for home loans through a developer-approved lender — despite the Maui County Code calling for such vetting to be done by the applicant’s choice of lender. Maui News.

The state Department of Health will be holding a public information meeting Tuesday on its proposal to update rules regulating businesses that generate or handle hazardous wastes and used oil in Hawaii. Maui News.

The Kīhei Maui Self Storage facility is closed due to the discovery on Thursday afternoon, of a piece of unexploded ordnance in a storage unit. Maui Now.

University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers discovered “unparalleled” nitrate levels in Kuau Bay linked to adjacent sugar cane fields, the lead author of a recent study said Thursday. Maui News.

Improving wastewater treatment systems, reducing nitrogen and phosphorous within injection wells and changing the public’s perception of recycled water are key areas the county should consider, according to a former county wastewater operations superintendent. Maui News.

A team of University of Hawaii scientists has completed an intensive study of nearshore ecosystems around Maui that paints a clear picture of the impact of discharged treated wastewater. Star-Advertiser

The crop that once defined Hawai‘i is facing its final harvest. Next month, Hawai‘i Commercial & Sugar Company will close its operations. For many, the industry was more than just a place to work—it represented an entire way of life. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Those who knew Tim Bynum say he was a gentle giant who genuinely cared about the island. Bynum, who served on the Kauai County Council for four terms, from 2006 to 2014, died Friday at the age of 62. Garden Island.

Gary Hooser may no longer have a seat on the Kauai County Council, but he’ll continue trying to make a difference in the lives of island residents. Garden Island.

The access road leading to Mahaulepu Beach should be open again in early December, according to the state Department of Health. Garden Island.

Hawaii homeless moving to neighbor islands, tourism economy perking, smoking rate drops, Hawaii senators fight Trump official's internment camp talk, $4M Ala Moana rail fix, Thirty Meter Telescope hearings pause until December, fire ants found on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kauai view © 2016 All Hawaii News

National Geographic Traveler magazine on Thursday released its rundown of 21 “Best of the World” must-see destinations for 2017, and Kauai is one of three U.S. locations on the list. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii economy is expected to finish the year slightly stronger than previously projected, with tourism and construction fueling the growth. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s economy is moving forward with stable growth due to an increase in jobs, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s quarterly statistical and economic report released Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu’s homeless population grew by less than 1 percent from January 2015 to January 2016, but an increase of homeless people living on the neighbor islands boosted Hawaii’s overall rate to a 4 percent increase, according to federal data released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

©2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii saw its homeless population grow another 4 percent from 2015, federal officials announced today, making the islands only one of 14 states and territories — and Washington, D.C. — that saw their homeless numbers grow. Star-Advertiser.

HUD homeless report can be found here.

Hawaii is one of only 13 states whose homeless population has grown since 2010, according to a new state-by-state report to Congress. Hawaii News Now.

The Aloha State has among one of the largest increases in homeless individuals in the nation, according to a report from the Department of Housing and Urban Development Thursday. Garden Island.

===================

Hawaii’s two U.S. senators joined a growing chorus of politicians and civil rights organizations Thursday in condemning comments made by a prominent supporter of President-elect Donald Trump that suggested World War II-era Japanese internment camps could serve as a precedent for creating a federal registry for Muslim immigrants in the United States. Associated Press.


U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono has called on President-elect Donald Trump to rescind his job offer to former Breitbart News chief Stephen Bannon. Associated Press.

A Civil Beat analysis of election results and U.S. Census data found that President-elect Donald Trump tended to do well in some of the most affluent parts of the state, where many tourist accommodations are located. They include parts of the Princeville and Hanalei area on Kauai; Kapalua, Kaanapali and Wailea on Maui; and the Kailua-Kona area on Hawaii Island.


Hawaii’s adult smoking rate has dropped 17 percent in a decade to one of the lowest in the country, and the state will now focus its efforts on specific groups that haven’t kept up with the societal shift, including Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ala Moana Center management officials estimate it will cost about $4 million to make repairs and improvements to faulty railings at the state’s largest shopping mall, and the work will likely run well into, if not beyond, the holiday shopping season. Star-Advertiser.

Will Residents Ever Feel Safe In This Downtown Honolulu Park? In a scenario that plays out in many parts of downtown and Chinatown, nearby residents are afraid to go to Kamalii Park. Civil Beat.

The Whitmore Project fits in with a statewide priority of seeing through and achieving the state’s goal of doubling food production by 2030. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. opened two mobile chargers to the public Thursday. HECO and Energy Excelerator — a Honolulu-based program that helps energy startups — sponsored the chargers stationed at the Honolulu Airport Trade Center. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Beer Co., headed by Hawaii real estate executive Steve Sombrero and noted brewer Dave Campbell, is reopening in Honolulu, this time in the neighborhood of Kakaako, once home to the state’s booming beer business, Sombrero confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Installing water bottle filling stations at Hawaii County parks and encouraging use of an anti-littering phone app are among the recommendations of the county’s packaging waste task force. Tribune-Herald.

A contingent of wounded veterans and their families trooped to the testimony table Wednesday, and one by one, gave tearful gratitude to the promise of a new Purple Heart memorial planned for the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery. West Hawaii Today.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources Contested Case Hearing on the Thirty Meter Telescope project proposed by the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, wrapped up for the month and will resume in December. Big Island Now.

A highly anticipated witness took the stand during the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing on Wednesday. Wally Ishibashi – the senior advisor for the Office Of Mauna Kea Management – is a longtime supporter of TMT, dating back to his union days with ILWU Local 142. Big Island Video News.

Thanksgiving came a week early in Kona, as Hope Services Hawaii hosted the 19th annual Homeless Luncheon and Resource Fair Thursday at the Old Airport Pavilion. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Community College departments partner to serve up local produce. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Little Fire Ant Infestation Found on 12 Acres in Kapalua, Maui. Maui Now.

A new infestation of the little fire ant has been found on Maui. Maui Watch.

A Maui County Council committee Tuesday deferred a resolution to grant a lease to redevelop the Old Maui High School campus, which sits vacant in Hamakuapoko. Maui News.

Kauai

According to the annual Point in Time count released in June, there was 442 homeless people on Kauai in 2016, a 30 percent increase from last year’s figure of 339. Garden Island.

Kapaa Beach Park substation sold for $1,125 at auction. Old police substation to be moved. Garden Island.

Still no warning signs for beach bacteria, charter school probe could overhaul agency, taxpayers to foot Honolulu police chief legal bill, anti-Trump march in Waikiki, arcade owner sues over gambling sweeps, Maui to build homes for workers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Beach-goers at black sand beach © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii residents and visitors are unknowingly exposing themselves to serious health risks from chronically polluted waters in dozens of places around the islands that don’t post warning signs. Civil Beat.

An investigation into complaints lodged against the agency regulating Hawaii’s public charter schools could result in far-reaching sanctions including a halt to new campuses and removal of appointees to the Public Charter School Commission. Star-Advertiser.

The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council is wasting no time seeking financial compensation for those in the fishing industry who may claim they have been harmed by President Barack Obama’s expansion of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument in late August. Civil Beat.

Oahu

More than 1,000 demonstrators marched through Waikiki on Sunday to express their opposition to a Donald Trump presidency and to advocate for a wide variety of progressive causes they worry will be trampled when the controversial president-elect takes office next year. Star-Advertiser.

In a protest that began in a Waikiki park and ended at a hotel that bears his name, hundreds of people rallied in opposition to President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday. Civil Beat.

Demonstrators hit the streets of Waikiki Sunday evening for a massive protest against President-elect Donald Trump. Hawaii News Now.

Taxpayers will fund private representation for Honolulu's police chief in four civil cases. Associated Press.

Improvements to Oahu crime mapping tool to be discussed by city, police. KHON2.

Hawaii’s housing inventory issue will be addressed Tuesday at the second-annual Houseless in Honolulu summit. Pacific Business News.

City officials are seeking input on a draft plan proposed for transit-oriented development in Halawa. The plan outlines a vision for potentially redeveloping about 150 acres around the Aloha Stadium rail station into mixed-use communities.Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell found broader support among voters across Oahu on his way to an easier-than-expected re-election victory over former U.S. Rep. and City Councilman Charles Djou on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

A new contender has entered the ownership fight over more than seven streets running through Kakaako close to where glass condominium towers are rising in Honolulu’s urban core. Star-Advertiser.

City finally taking action in Ewa’s Varona Village. Star-Advertiser.

In an effort to protect and manage a native forest and trail system on Oahu, the state has purchased 635 acres in Kalauao Valley from Bishop Museum, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced last week. Star-Advertiser.

$2.5M project aims to alter breakwater near Shangri La. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Another old hand is returning to county government. Charmaine Kamaka, who served as Parks and Recreation director under former Mayor Lorraine Inouye, is returning to that position under Mayor-elect Harry Kim. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council will consider a resolution next week asking the state to strengthen its animal cruelty law. Introduced by Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille, the measure urges lawmakers in Honolulu to require owners to use a tether of at least five feet when restraining their dog. Tribune-Herald.

A Hilo arcade owner whose establishment has twice been the subject of police gambling raids is suing in an effort to stave off another potential search and seizure. Tribune-Herald.

As opioid use surges, experts urge cautious approach. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The developer of the 304-acre Pulelehua working-class housing community in West Maui said Thursday that the project’s first phase will include the first apartment complex built on the west side in more than two decades. Maui News.

The developer of a proposed 304-acre housing community says the first phase of the project will include the first apartment complex in west Maui in more than two decades. Associated Press.

Council Member Don Couch filed an amended financial disclosure statement late last month, breaking out the rental income he and his wife received for a Waikapu home, in the wake of a review by the Ethics Board of a complaint. Maui News.

Despite being denied a special use permit in July, a zipline company that’s been operating illegally for six years is continuing to accept reservations at its property in Haiku. Maui News.

The company chosen to redevelop the Old Maui High School campus pledged Thursday night to work more with the community on its technological, educational and events center and is willing to delay the approval process for a bit to work with community members, who felt they needed more time to digest and analyze the project. Maui News.

Kauai

Fuel economy and emissions levels in new cars have surpassed Environmental Protection Agency standards for the past eight years running, and as a result the state is looking at new ways to generate revenue. Garden Island.

Belly full of plastic. New paper shows how much endangered seabirds dine on ocean debris. Garden Island.

The North Shore Shuttle, which has transported residents and visitors between Princeville and Ke‘e Beach over the last three months, will end today. Garden Island.

Coco Palms resort, featured in the 1961 Elvis Presley movie “Blue Hawaii” and destroyed in a 1992 hurricane is nearing the end of its demolition phase. Associated Press.

Native Hawaiians, Asia-Pacific, pundits react to Trump triumph, Kenoi admits 'probable cause' to pCard misuse, cheaper to put Thirty Meter Telescope on Canary Islands, saving Waikiki Natatorium, voter turnout down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Keaukaha Hawaiian campground © 2016 All Hawaii News

The future of a Hawaiian nation has suddenly found itself in the shadow of a huge cloud with the stunning election of Republican Donald Trump as president. Star-Advertiser.

Uncertainty regarding America’s relationships with Asia-Pacific nations has “increased exponentially” with the election of Donald Trump, the outgoing leader of the East-West Center said Wednesday. Civil Beat.

A Donald Trump presidency could theoretically boost military spending in Hawaii, impact relations with neighboring countries overseas and shake up health care for people of the Aloha State, some local experts predict. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s congressional delegation still seemed to be processing what Trump’s presidency could mean for national policy and Hawaii’s political interests. Star-Advertiser.

The day after the General Election, some wonder what impact a Trump Presidency will have on Hawaii. KITV.

Despite his win in heavily Democratic Hawaii, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz says overall losses in his party mean he will have to work harder on issues such as climate change, which are important to his state. Associated Press.

Column: Welcome To TrumpWorld. Donald Trump’s presidency could be both good news and bad news for Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The Republican Party’s General Election “Sweep” on the mainland was in stark contrast to political races in Hawai’i where GOP candidates were defeated. Hawaii Public Radio.

Even as Republicans nationally celebrated the election of billionaire Donald Trump as president, Hawaii Republicans this week continued their slide into near-oblivion on the state political scene. Star-Advertiser.

Despite long lines on Election Day, a shortage of blue “secrecy sleeves,” and malfunctioning voting machines that turned away some voters, the new chairman of the state Elections Commission said Wednesday he was “very, very impressed” with the election. Star-Advertiser.

The voter turnout in Hawaii Tuesday was down from four years ago, from 62 to 58 percent. But actual ballots cast were up by about 400 to more than 437,000 due to an increase in registered voters. Hawaii News Now.

Despite this year’s all-time high number of  registered voters — likely due to a new online registration system — Hawaii’s voter turnout rate in the general election was less than for the 2012 presidential election. Civil Beat.

Column: Wednesday-Morning Quarterbacking Hawaii’s Election. Civil Beat.

With Republicans in control of the White House and in Congress, will Hawaii’s Democratic lawmakers on Capitol Hill face a tougher battle sending federal dollars our way? KHON2.

Hawaii voters seem inclined to let the Legislature have more flexibility when it comes to spending excess state revenue. Civil Beat.

It’s been a busy year for the state Department of Health. KHON2.

Outrigger Hotels and Resorts and its portfolio of 37 hotels, condominiums and vacation resort properties is being sold to Colorado-based private equity firm KSL Capital Partners for an undisclosed amount, the two companies said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Historic preservationists are pushing a new plan to save the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial, a World War I monument, and its pool, where Hawaii Olympian Duke Kahanamoku once swam. Star-Advertiser.

With Veterans Day coming up, there is a new proposal to save the aging Waikiki Natatorium. Hawaii News Now.

Ko Olina Resort &Marina is envisioned to almost double in size and connect directly with the City of Kapolei as part of an estimated $5 billion expansion for the West Oahu vacation destination. Star-Advertiser.

A major solar farm that would span hundreds of acres of land near the University of Hawaii-West Oahu campus is in the works, Pacific Business News has learned.

Hawaii

Mayor Billy Kenoi’s attorneys reached a stipulated agreement Wednesday with the Hawaii County Board of Ethics for misuse of his county-issued credit card. The advisory opinion, offered by the lawyers to avoid an investigative hearing in response to a long-delayed complaint, acknowledges there is “probable cause” that Kenoi violated a section of the county’s Ethics Code by using the card for personal expenses, which were later paid back. Tribune-Herald.

Outgoing Hawaii County councilwoman Margaret Wille read scathing testimony into the record of the Board of Ethics on Wednesday, sharply criticizing Mayor Billy Kenoi in the wake of the government purchase card controversy. Big Island Video News.

TMT official: Moving Thirty Meter Telescope  to Canary Islands could save money. Pacific Business News.

President-elect Donald Trump didn’t win any Hawaii County precincts, but voters were much kinder to him on the west side of the island than on the east side. That’s according to a West Hawaii Today analysis of precinct reports released early Wednesday by the state Office of Elections.

Maui

Maui’s voter turnout improved from 52.7% in 2014 to 56.4% this year. Of the 93,912 registered voters in Maui County, 52,969 cast ballots in the General Election. Maui Now.

After nearly 3,000 votes were counted late Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning, natural farm alchemist Alika Atay came from behind to defeat former Maui County Council Member Dain Kane for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu council residency seat, according to general election results posted at 5:18 a.m. Maui News

An ocean-front Maui property that has been rock star Pat Benatar's home for years went on the market for $3.6 million on Wednesday morning. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The 2016 general election saw the highest voter turnout in Kauai since the 2008 general election, which featured U.S. Senators Barack Obama and John McCain. Garden Island.

Ensuring a future for keiki, mitigating a large tourist population and protecting the environment are just some of the topics Kauai residents want to see addressed in the general plan update. Garden Island.

With all 16 precincts reporting, Derek Kawakami and Arthur Brun are the new faces of the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Election Day preview: Candidates and parties make last sweep, second Thirty Meter Telescope appeal to Hawaii Supreme Court, DNA to prove Hawaiian homestead eligibility, Army sued over cultural access, Maui candidate calls from jail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Democratic Party rally © 2016 All Hawaii News

See our Facebook page for more Grand Rally photos!

Hawaii Democrats and Republicans staged last-gasp sign-waving sessions before the Democrats’ traditional Grand Rally in Hilo on Monday in the final buildup to today’s voting. Star-Advertiser.

Trump sign-wavers

United States Senator for Hawaii Mazie Hirono took to the stage of the Democratic Party Grand Rally in Hilo on Monday evening. Most of her comments were directed at the Clinton-Trump presidential election. Big Island Video News.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard was in Hilo Monday to take part in a Democratic Party election-eve tradition. Big Island Video News.

With a polarizing presidential race, an election to replace the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai and the possibility of an all-Democrat state Senate, Hawaii voters face difficult choices at the polls. Associated Press.

Hillary supporters

Voter registration in Hawaii is at an all-time high, but that might not translate into higher turnout on Election Day, experts said. Hawaii News Now.

Here are some things to look for in this year’s general election in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Time to cast your ballot: What Hawaii voters need to know. Star-Advertiser.

Red flag raised on the absentee voting system. KITV.

Public access to health care inspection reports filled with delays, redactions. KHON2.

Native Hawaiians could soon be able to use DNA to prove eligibility for homesteads, under new administrative rules being proposed by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

On the eve of the election, Honolulu mayoral candidates Kirk Caldwell and Charles Djou are making their final push for votes. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Army is violating a court settlement by restricting access to cultural sites in a valley many Native Hawaiians consider sacred, a lawsuit filed today alleges. Associated Press.

Measures to pave the way for transit-oriented development projects along the rail corridor are advancing even though concerns over affordable-housing requirements persist. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Education wants to impose a school impact fee on all new residential development along a 4-mile stretch of the Honolulu rail line from Kalihi to Ala Moana to build or expand schools in the area. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Health announced Monday that there are 14 new cases of salmonella on Oahu and that they have been linked to limu poke, or cubed raw fish served with seaweed. Star-Advertiser.

A city worker who was depicted on live video allegedly propositioning a transgender probationer for sexual favors pleaded not guilty Monday in Oahu’s Circuit Court. Star-Advertiser.

Regulars at Sand Island Beach Park say that someone is bringing his dogs to the park to let them kill cats for sport. At least 15 cats have turned up dead in the last four months, including three on Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

A group opposing the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea is appealing to the state’s highest court for the second time. The group Mauna Kea Anaina Hou filed a notice of appeal with the Hawaii Supreme Court Tuesday evening. Hawaii Public Radio.

As of Saturday, 38,440 residents — or 34 percent of the county’s 113,355 registered voters — had made their voices heard at the ballot box, said Pat Nakamoto, Hawaii County elections division chief. Tribune-Herald.

Proving his political career is not over, outgoing Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi gave the opening speech at the traditional Democratic Party Grand Rally in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

The word of the day in West Hawaii Monday was inconvenience, as a fiber-optic cable break caused major disruptions to the communications grid across the island’s leeward region. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Republican state House candidate Chayne Marten called The Maui News from jail Saturday night, insisting he’s innocent of sexual assault charges and vowing that he would be exonerated. Maui News.

The U.S. Marshals Service arrested a former Maui corrections officer Saturday who spent two years evading law enforcement officials after being charged with sexual assault against a female inmate, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Sunday. Maui News.

Kauai

Today’s the last day to cast your vote for your representation in government at all levels, including the next president of the United States of America. Garden Island.

House Finance Committee tries to stanch red ink, Honolulu police chief gets glowing review despite federal probe, Trump and aloha spirit, Maui waste-to-energy plant could be $35M over budget, Pearl Harbor sailor buried 75 years later, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback headstand, courtesy NOAA

Scientists are reporting peculiar behavior among this season’s humpback whales. A recent video by NOAA's Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary shows a female humpback standing upside down with her tail sticking out of the water, performing a sort of underwater headstand. Hawaii Public Radio.

Humpback whale video here.

House Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke on Wednesday unveiled a proposed $13.7 billion budget for the coming year, but said she isn’t willing to commit just yet to some of Gov. David Ige’s most expensive spending initiatives. Star-Advertiser.

The House Finance Committee took its first pass at the overall state budget bill Wednesday. It left largely intact Hawaii Gov. David Ige’s proposed $7.1 billion general fund spending plan for next fiscal year, which begins July 1. Civil Beat.

Legislators are advancing a bill that effectively would shut out the public from the decision-making process in the awarding of temporary land permits by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Some political observers wondered how Donald Trump, a candidate who has insulted so many — women, minorities, veterans, the physically challenged, entire countries — and bragged so much could so easily prevail in an island state that is said to revere respect, tolerance and modesty. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Lawmakers Return To The Bad Old Days Of Backroom Deals. A political fight over funding for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has unfairly ensnared the judicial system. Civil Beat.

President Barack Obama has selected Hawaii’s High Technology Development Corp. along with 14 others to join the a national initiative to train the workforce for technology jobs. Pacific Business News.

Commentary:  What really happened at the ʻAha, part II. Whitewashed press releases, a sinister state bill and a flippant disregard for the rules of the Native Hawaiian convention. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Commission on Wednesday gave police Chief Louis Kealoha an above-average score for his job performance for last year, marking four consecutive years of high marks. Star-Advertiser.

Federal investigation into police chief broadens. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Commission announced Wednesday the results of its annual performance evaluation of Chief Louis Kealoha. KHON2.

City building officials this week gave a Makiki homeowner a second notice to clean up his Pensacola Street property — which is littered with three derelict vehicles, old furniture and trash — within 30 days or face additional fines. Star-Advertiser.

A sailor killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor has been buried with full military honors nearly 75 years later. Associated Press.

75 years later, a Navy sailor killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor has gotten a proper burial. Petty Officer 1st Class Vernon Luke was laid to rest during a ceremony Wednesday at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

With support from Gov. David Ige and the state Legislature, all systems are go for a $50 million upgrade to make Kona International Airport ready to welcome international commercial flights again. West Hawaii Today.

A new trail the state plans to open later this year will offer hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts an up-close look at Hawaii’s dryland forests, home to the rare Hawaiian honeycreeper ­— the palila. Tribune-Herald.

The state health department has released a new dengue fever risk map, and it appears Hawaii Island is on the verge of ending the mosquito-borne disease outbreak. Big Island Video News.

No new cases of dengue fever were confirmed on Hawaii Island on Wednesday. The Kailua-Kona area, previously deemed the lone area on the island where people were at a high risk for infection, has been downgraded to a low-risk area. West Hawaii Today.

Legislators now are looking to public-private partnerships — similar to those being pursued by Maui and East Hawaii — in the hope there might be a way to slow or stop the onslaught of invasive pests on Hawaii Island’s delicate ecosystems. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A 20-year agreement signed by Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa for a waste-to-energy facility is projected to cost Maui County taxpayers $35 million more than expected, an audit released Wednesday revealed. Star-Advertiser.

County Defends Solid Waste Costs Following Release of Audit Report. Maui Now.

As Kaiser Permanente Hawaii prepares to assume management of the state hospitals on Maui by July 1, the health care provider began distributing job packets and offers on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Hawaii should dramatically improve its regulation of pesticide use and study its impacts — something the Legislature has repeatedly refused to do — according to a draft version of a report commissioned by the state and Kauai County. Civil Beat.

Frustrated with what they called a lack of support from the state in addressing major transportation problems on Kauai, the county council on Wednesday lashed out at state officials for their “ineffectiveness” in handling crucial local road needs. Garden Island.

Lanai

Hawaiian Airlines is filling some of the void created when Island Air pulled out of the Lanai market. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines’ interisland subsidiary, Ohana by Hawaiian, plans to add daily flights to Lanai in May, following an announcement by Island Air that it would cease flights to the Pineapple Island by the end of this month. Pacific Business News.

Huge turnout as Hawaii Republicans vote for Trump, hundreds of bills passed to legislative crossover, gas tax hike advances, county employees reap frequent flier miles, Honolulu juvie hall to get new life, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii GOP caucus in Honolulu, courtesy Charles Djou

Billionaire Donald Trump won the Hawaii Republican Party’s presidential caucus voting Tuesday night, dramatically demonstrating his local appeal by spurring a strong voter turnout that swamped his competition. With all the precincts counted, Trump won handily with 42 percent of the vote, with Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz finishing second at 33 percent, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida a distant third-place with 13 percent, and Ohio Gov. John R. Kasich fourth with just under 11 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Republican front-runner Donald Trump clinched Hawaii's Republican presidential caucus Tuesday night, beating out U.S. Senator Ted Cruz by a significant margin. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Republicans helped Donald Trump continue his domination of the Republican presidential field Tuesday night. The New York real estate magnate won the GOP presidential caucus in the islands. He had 45 percent of the vote with 53 percent of the precincts reporting when the race was called by news networks at about 9:30 p.m. Civil Beat.

For the first time in many decades, Hawaii Republicans could make a dent in national politics. The plan would be both simple and complex. Star-Advertiser.

Although local GOP officials were anticipating large turnouts Tuesday night, it appears they might have been caught off guard by just how large the turnout was. KHON2.

In response to U.S. Rep. Charles Djou’s attack on Donald Trump Monday, local supporters of the presidential frontrunner for the Republican nomination have some comments of their own to make. Civil Beat.

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Opposition mounted in the Senate on Tuesday to a proposal by Gov. David Ige’s administration to hike the gasoline and motor vehicle weight taxes and increase the cost of registrations. If enacted, Senate Bill 2938, part of the governor’s legislative package, is expected to increase costs for a typical motorist by about $83 a year. Star-Advertiser.

It’s crossover week in the Hawaii Legislature, that time when the House and Senate each pass hundreds of bills and send them over to the other chamber for its consideration. While many bills are expected to survive the marathon voting sessions Tuesday and Thursday, many others will be considered dead for the year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s House and Senate each passed hundreds of bills Tuesday on topics ranging from gun control and medical marijuana to cooling public school classrooms and establishing an all-mail voting system. Civil Beat.

Today the House passed more than 180 bills, including measures to implement a heat abatement program in Hawaii's public schools and to fund construction/relocation of Oahu and Maui prisons. KITV4.

It’s a busy day for Hawaii lawmakers who are considering most of the bills that have a chance at becoming law this year. Associated Press.

Leaders of the state Senate and House of Representatives said Tuesday they are making good on promises to make helping the homeless and providing affordable housing a top priority. Civil Beat.

If there are any worries that the state Senate’s only Republican is out of action, worry no more. Sam Slom was his usual self Tuesday, voting “no” on countless bills sponsored by his Democratic Party colleagues. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige maintained his opposition Tuesday to NextEra Energy Inc.’s proposed buyout of Hawaiian Electric Utilities after the top executive at the Florida-based company’s subsidiary said earlier in the day that most of the governor’s reasons for opposing the sale “do not stack up.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Undeterred by rain that blew sideways and broke umbrellas, Republican voters lined up Tuesday night to cast their ballots in the Hawaii Republican caucus. Star-Advertiser.

In spite of rainy blustery weather, Oahu Republicans came out in what appeared to be record numbers to cast their ballots in their presidential caucus Tuesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Voters will have the final say, but the Honolulu Charter Commission has begun the debate over who should oversee the city’s transit operations — including the setting of fares for TheBus, Handi-Van and rail. Star-Advertiser.

A deteriorating and underused juvenile detention center in Honolulu owned by the state is being eyed as an opportunity to increase the supply of affordable housing and produce new facilities serving troubled children. Star-Advertiser.

Police and school safety officers patrolled three public school campuses Tuesday in response to a written threat, but classes continued as usual and no incidents were reported. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Radio has a new leader in a former Florida public radio and TV station CEO. HPR is scheduled to announce today that Jose Fajardo will succeed the 17-year tenure of Michael Titterton as president and general manager of the nonprofit member-supported station. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools’ $90-million Keauhou Lane rental project in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako, is expected to start construction in the first or second quarter of this year and be completed in the second or third quarter of 2017, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

It was crush turnout at a Republican caucus location in Kona — nothing like 2012, when the entire island cast 1,417 votes — poll workers said. West Hawaii Today.

The skies will remain friendly for Hawaii County employees. Officers and employees are allowed to continue to use the frequent flier miles they accrue on their purchasing cards during government-paid travel for their own personal use. West Hawaii Today.

Puna State Senator Russell Ruderman spoke for twenty minutes on the senate floor Tuesday in a last-ditch effort to derail a geothermal bill he says is bad for his district and the renewable energy industry. Big Island Video News.

In an effort to protect native plants from wild pigs, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources is proposing to fence an additional 2,659 acres in the Laupahoehoe forest. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Republicans came out to vote Tuesday in their state presidential caucus in numbers unseen in the memories of local party officials, braving rain, full parking lots and waits of over one hour to cast their ballots. Maui News.

Ethics board set to scrutinize financial disclosure reports. County administration, officials must disclose income, holdings, gifts. Maui News.

Central Maui Regional Sports Complex to Open March 12. Maui Now.

Monday marked the last day for 88 workers at Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co., as the company began gradual layoffs that will see most of its workers lose their jobs by the end of the year as sugar operations come to a close. Maui News.

Kauai

Ten minutes after the voting opened at the presidential Republican caucus on Tuesday, a line wrapped around the foyer of the Kapaa Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

The big question is: How does Kauai want to manage its invasive rodent population in forests and conservation areas? Monday and Tuesday evenings, members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife held preliminary scoping meetings in Waimea and Lihue to find out the answer. Garden Island.

Trump favored as Hawaii gears up for Republican presidential caucus, hearing set for Kauai police cameras law, early release could lessen prison overcrowding, health-care workers fight flu shot requirement, county employees seek ethics clearance for county contracts, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

File photo: Honolulu Festival parade © 2016 All Hawaii News

The 22nd Honolulu Festival, which showcases the cultures of the Pacific Rim, is expected to bring 5,000 visitors to Honolulu this weekend. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s world-class beaches and swaying palm trees may lure tourists, but as Republicans prepare for Hawaii’s GOP presidential caucus Tuesday, the far-away state isn’t drawing the candidates’ love. Associated Press.

Republicans prepared for tonight’s presidential caucus with a flurry of activity Monday that included a campaign stop by former Pennsylvania U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum, and a scathing open letter by former U.S. Rep. Charles Djou criticizing billionaire Donald Trump. Star-Advertiser.

Trump Favored to Win Hawai'i Caucus Tuesday. The Hawai’i Republican Party is preparing for its Presidential Caucus tomorrow night.    There are some last minute campaign ads but most observers conclude it’s a done deal. Hawaii Public Radio.

Republican presidential candidates made their final pitches to Hawaii Republicans on Monday, as the state geared up for a caucus that could garner national attention. Hawaii News Now.

It will be Wednesday on the East Coast before Tuesday's last political prize is doled out. Hawaii Republicans will go to the polls Tuesday to decide how the state's 19 delegates should be divvied up among the five GOP presidential candidates. Here's how the state's GOP caucus works: Associated Press.

On Tuesday, March 8, Hawaii voters will weigh in on the Republican presidential race: real estate mogul Donald Trump, Texas senator Ted Cruz, Florida senator Marco Rubio and Ohio governor John Kasich. KHON2.

The state's community correctional centers are bursting at the seams. Now, lawmakers are considering releasing some inmates early to make more space. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii could soon require unannounced inspections of state-licensed care facilities for the elderly instead of giving the operators advance warning of when the Department of Health is coming. Civil Beat.

A new bill circulating the Hawaii Capitol would hold insurers accountable for delays in medical services, while some insurers claim the measure will contribute to rising health care costs. Pacific Business News.

Health care workers across the state would be required to receive annual flu vaccinations if a measure currently being debated in the Legislature is adopted. Tribune-Herald.

With less than six weeks to go before the state is scheduled to announce the winners of licenses to grow and sell medical marijuana, the Department of Health still hasn’t chosen the members of a panel that will evaluate the applications. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Public Charter School Movement At A Crossroads. Big changes could be ahead, including how new schools are created and how they are overseen. Civil Beat.

Abused By Priests As A Child, He’s ‘Finally Been Released’ As the deadline nears for child sex abuse victims to sue, one of the first to step forward talks about his settlement with Hawaii’s Catholic Church. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A much-anticipated report from the city Auditor’s Office echoes what many riders have voiced for several years: Honolulu’s Handi-Van service has steadily been getting worse in key ways despite efforts to make it better. Star-Advertiser.

Two men who were assaulted by a Honolulu police officer in an illegal game room in 2014 are suing the officer, his partners, Police Chief Louis Kealoha and the city. Star-Advertiser.

Thirty or so homeless people camping out in Kakaako’s Makai Gateway Park along Ala Moana Boulevard were packing up and preparing to be kicked out of the area in a sweep again Monday night, but — just like usual — planned to return this morning. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii has selected four finalists for the director’s position at the embattled UH Cancer Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A new law requiring that county employees seeking to do contract work for the county in addition to their day job get permission from the Board of Ethics won’t go into effect until July 1, but would-be contractors and their families already are starting to line up for advisory opinions. West Hawaii Today.

Farmers and ranchers in the Ka‘u District concerned about statewide impacts of a recent court decision regarding East Maui water rights are hoping a piece of legislation can serve as a temporary solution. Tribune-Herald.

After canceling blood drives on Hawaii island because of the risk of dengue fever in Kailua-Kona, the Blood Bank of Hawaii will hold drives at its Kalihi headquarters this week. Star-Advertiser.


Maui

The Democratic Party of Hawaii has scheduled precinct meetings at 1 p.m. March 26 at various locations in Maui County. Maui News.

Alvin Kaimi (“Kai”) Pelayo has accepted the post as Community Affairs Manager for Monsanto Maui. Effective Jan 18 Pelayo has taken on possibly the most high profile and contentious job on the island. Maui Watch.

With the purchase of new equipment that can scan 1 million points a second to create a 3-D diagram, police traffic investigators are hoping to collect evidence more quickly at fatal crash scenes. Maui News.

As part of the largest single-day, private-sector pay increase ever, more than 3,800 Walmart and Sam’s Club associates in Hawaiʻi, including more than 300 associates on Maui, will receive a pay raise in their March 10 paycheck. Maui Now.

Kauai

A proliferation of non-traditional guest accommodations for visitors, particularly in popular tourist areas, has prompted proposed changes in the way bed and breakfasts are regulated on Kauai. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Labor Relations Board has scheduled a two-day hearing to address a complaint by the police union against Kauai County over the use of body cameras by police officers. Star-Advertiser.

The Republican Party of Kauai is hosting a presidential caucus from 6 to 8 tonight at locations across the island. Garden Island.

Bills could ban homegrown medical marijuana, expand sit-lie ban to state lands, require helmets on mopeds; Ige to give State of the State today; grand jury probing bribery charges at Honolulu airport; Thirty Meter Telescope director ponders future; energy commissioner sought on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Medical marijuana sign in Hilo © 2016 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Legislature is heading into its first full week of the 2016 legislative session, and lawmakers are busy submitting new bills. The week will begin with an overview of the state as Gov. David Ige delivers his annual address on Monday. Associated Press.

A slew of bills concerning campaign spending, elections and open government are set for hearings in two committees Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige will deliver his State of the State address Monday morning. While he’s expected to outline his vision on topics ranging from homelessness to the prison population, resistance from a frustrated Legislature could also occur. Hawaii News Now.

Governor David Ige will outline his vision and plan for a variety of issues that continue to impact the state. Maui Now.

As the state’s medical cannabis dispensary program gets underway, one lawmaker is proposing a twist — limiting purchases to dispensaries only. House Bill 1680, introduced by Oahu Democrat Rep. Marcus Oshiro, would prohibit patients from growing their own medical marijuana and instead require them to obtain it through a state-licensed dispensary. Tribune-Herald.

State Rep. Marcus Oshiro of Oahu is pushing for another way to regulate Hawaii’s medical cannabis. Specifically, the physicians who recommend it. Oshiro’s House Bill 1677 would establish a system to monitor doctors who provide medical marijuana certifications and track how many certifications they provide. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmakers are introducing a bill to require all doctors practicing in the state to treat Medicare patients. Associate Press.

A decade after Act 51 mandated that each school in the state have a school community council, it’s unclear how well the system is — or isn’t — working when it comes to giving parents and community members a voice in how schools are run. Civil Beat.

Administrators and teachers gathered at the Hawaii Convention Center Sunday for the Hawaii School Empowerment Conference that focused on what is best for the future of education in Hawaii. KHON2.

Because the University of Hawaii doesn’t have the money to make any significant dent in deferred maintenance, the costs continue to pile up. In addition to the $354 million needed for UH Manoa, another $21.5 is needed for UH Hilo and $59.2 for the system’s community colleges. Civil Beat.

Sitting and lying down on state lands in Hawaii could become illegal under a proposal in the state Legislature, and homelessness experts say they don’t know of any other state with such a ban. Associated Press.

State Sen. Lorraine Inouye will push this legislative session for at least a helmet law, safety checks statewide and a closed-toe shoe and protective jacket requirement for moped operators. West Hawaii Today.

Replacing oil with liquefied natural gas as a “bridge fuel” to generate much of the state’s electricity likely would save Hawaii billions of dollars, according to a projection from the Ulupono Initiative. Civil Beat.

Editorial: Our Beef With The Donald Trump Campaign. We work hard to be an independent, nonpartisan news operation. Even presidential candidates need to understand that. Civil Beat.

Oahu
An Oahu grand jury is investigating an alleged bribery scheme involving private security guards at Honolulu Airport. Hawaii News Now.

The federal government will help Honolulu convene a group of community leaders to help tackle homelessness among new arrivals from Micronesia, Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Thursday in an interview. Hawaii News Now.

As many as 40 Navy divers, other personnel and a salvage ship from Pearl Harbor are supporting a survey of the debris fields 2 miles off Haleiwa where two helicopters apparently collided and crashed, killing 12 Marines. Star-Advertiser.

The Kobayashi Group and The MacNaughton Group have canceled plans to build the Vida at 888 Ala Moana luxury high-rise condominium project and develop a neighboring parcel that would have added a total of 500 residential units to Honolulu's growing Kakaako neighborhood, citing slow sales in recent months. Pacific Business News.

Users say the park where they skate at Ewa Beach Community Park has fallen into such disrepair that it has become difficult and sometimes impossible to skate safely over holes in the surface and cracks in the ramps. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Despite a long wait to bolster the membership of the county Board of Ethics, the County Council on Friday postponed action on two nominees who would fill the five-member panel. West Hawaii Today.

Over objections from Kailua-Kona business interests, the Hawaii County Council agreed Friday to spend $650,000 for homeless housing in the Old Industrial Area. West Hawaii Today.

The state is about to kick off preliminary planning for a new regional public library for underserved residents in the rapidly growing Puna district. Tribune-Herald.

The executive director of the embattled Thirty Meter Telescope said Friday he wants to move forward with the project but is waiting to hear from state agencies about how to proceed after the Hawaii Supreme Court invalidated a key construction permit. Associated Press.

The future of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Hawai‘i Island’s Mauna Kea remains uncertain. Construction has been halted on the project since protests began last April. And in December, Hawaii's Supreme Court ruled the permit invalid, sending the matter back for a new contested case hearing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui County has begun advertising to fill the position of energy commissioner, a job that pays between $75,000 and $80,000 per year. Maui News.

A resolution to authorize the Maui County Council to hire special attorneys for second opinions in disputes with Mayor Alan Arakawa's administration was sent back to the Committee of the Whole on Friday after the proposal appeared to lack the votes for approval. Maui News.

The hearings officer in the East Maui watershed contested case is calling for the restoration of 18 million gallons of water a day to 10 streams currently being diverted mainly for Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. operations - but he did not take into consideration the impending closure of the plantation at the end of 2016. Maui News.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. has officially given Maui Electric Co. notice that the plantation's Puunene Mill will no longer provide power to the island's electric grid. Maui News.

A road repair project on Kahekili Highway is pending while officials decide how best to protect a nearby burial site thought to contain multiple human remains. Maui News.

Maui Electric Company announced that it has established the Maui Electric Company Sustainability Scholarship Endowment fund through a grant from the Hawaiian Electric Industries Charitable Foundation for students enrolled in the Sustainable Science Management program at University of Hawaiʻi Maui College. Maui Now.

Kauai
The Pentagon would have to decide whether a combat-ready Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai would protect either Hawaii or the mainland against a possible North Korean ballistic missile attack, because the missile defense system there would not be capable of shielding both, an East-Asia security analyst said Friday. Star-Advertiser.

There’s a new suggestion for how to regulate homestays on Kauai, and the county’s planning committee decided to defer the discussion until they could hear more details and compare the two bills. Garden Island.

Lisa McDonald, the Hanalei Elementary School principal who was removed from her post in September, will stay at the district office instead of returning to head the school, after a decision by Complex Area Superintendent Bill Arakaki. Garden Island.

Ten Syngenta employees were taken to Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital on Wednesday after walking onto a field too soon after it had been sprayed with an agricultural pesticide. Garden Island.