State expects $155M less in revenues, OHA to oust CEO Crabbe, tax refund delay, Lingle celebrates Trump win, is returning to Hawaii, Honolulu Police Commission mulls chief's fate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Dolphin encounter at Waikoloa resort © 2017 All Hawaii News

Animal rights activists are celebrating the news that the first U.S. resort developed by Atlantis Resorts — at Ko Olina — won’t include captive dolphins. Star-Advertiser.

The state expects to collect about $155 million less in tax revenues than a panel of economists, accountants and others had previously projected for fiscal year 2017, which ends June 30. Civil Beat.

A panel of experts that estimates how much the state will collect in taxes each year revised its projection significantly downward Wednesday, which means state government will have about $155 million less to spend this year than Gov. David Ige’s administration had expected. Star-Advertiser.

We’re just days into the new year and the outlook is not looking too good for our economy. Predictions are showing less money coming into the state and it’s no small chunk of change. KHON2.

The state is again warning taxpayers that they may need to wait as many as 16 weeks for a refund check after filing a Hawaii state tax return. The delays are part of an increased effort to prevent fraud that was launched in 2015. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii is asking the state Legislature for additional appropriations of about $29 million for each of the next two fiscal years to add to its annual operating budget of about $1.1 billion. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers crafting the state budget are questioning why the University of Hawaii hasn’t tapped into more than $6 million sitting in a special fund earmarked for repair and maintenance at the UH Cancer Center, which has been plagued with money troubles. Star-Advertiser.

A big change could be coming to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs -- and it won't be cheap. The OHA Board of Trustees have offered to buy CEO Kamana'opono Crabbe out of his contract. KITV.

Under new leadership, trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs have voted to buy out the contract of CEO Kamana’opono Crabbe. Civil Beat.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle offered her own analysis of Donald Trump’s surprise victory to a crowd of about 400 Republicans who gathered at the Koolau Ballrooms at Koolau Golf Course in Kaneohe on Wednesday for a pre-inaugural gala in celebration of the president-elect. Star-Advertiser.

Some 300 people gathered in Kaneohe to celebrate the upcoming presidency of Donald J. Trump. The Hawaii Republican Party's Pre-Inauguration Gala also drew former Gov. Linda Lingle, who was the featured speaker at the event. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s job status in the wake of being named the target of an FBI criminal investigation remains up in the air after the Honolulu Police Commission met behind closed doors for two hours Wednesday, then recessed until Friday without making a decision on his fate. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Commission emerged from a two-hour closed-door session Wednesday without making a decision on the status of Police Chief Louis Kealoha who is embroiled in a federal corruption investigation. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Commission met behind closed doors Wednesday to discuss the status of Chief Louis Kealoha, who surrendered his gun and badge and went on paid leave after being notified he’s the target of a federal investigation. Associated Press.

The future of Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha could be determined this Friday. That’s when the Honolulu Police Commission will reconvene to make a decision on the Chief’s employment status. Hawaii Pubic Radio.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha is on paid leave while federal officials carry out a corruption investigation.  The Honolulu Police Commission decided Wednesday afternoon to extend Chief Kealoha's leave of absence indefinitely. KITV.

Honolulu’s chief of police is on leave indefinitely. Max Sword, chair of the Honolulu Police Commission, also said he expects a decision Friday on Louis Kealoha’s future with the Honolulu Police Department. KHON2.

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

The Honolulu Planning Commission has approved an amendment to the city’s land-use law that spells out how much affordable housing developers must provide if they want to be eligible for a special temporary permit that provides height and density advantages for building near planned rail stations. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council members are asking the state to allow the tax for Oahu's multibillion-dollar rail project to cover operating costs as well as affordable housing efforts. Associated Press.

Honolulu’s departments of Design and Construction and of Facility Maintenance are credited for surpassing the repaving goal for 2016 by completing 332 lane miles on Oahu. Civil Beat.

The 1st Circuit Court of Hawaii has approved the final closure of the Estate of James Campbell, once one of Hawaii’s largest private landowners and the initial developer of the City of Kapolei in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Homeless Count Volunteers Sought. Organizers are gearing up for the annual count of homeless people, but they are facing a serious shortage of volunteers. Civil Beat.

Honolulu is one of the least affordable counties to rent a home, according to a new report by Attom Data Solutions that found renters need to spend nearly three quarters of their monthly income on rent. Pacific Business News.

The state board overseeing development in Kakaako approved a permit to build a seventh condominium tower at Ward Village in a 5-4 vote Wednesday that includes a deadline to complete construction of a public plaza. Star-Advertiser.

The red garbage collection trucks of Rolloffs Hawaii will keep rolling for its roughly 2,000 Oahu customers, but under new ownership after a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge approved a sale of the struggling company Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Council members postponed a bill Wednesday that would strengthen restrictions on the purchase of alcohol after discussing whether certain ceremonial activities should be exempt. Tribune-Herald.

With Mayor Harry Kim shouldering all the blame for a perceived misstep, and dozens of people supporting his nomination, Corporation Counsel nominee Joe Kamelamela on Wednesday survived his first step toward confirmation. West Hawaii Today.

An uneasy discussion concerning the next Corporation Counsel for the County of Hawaii was held in Hilo on Wednesday morning. Big Island Video News.

Last year was a deadly one on Big Island roads, with more official traffic fatalities than 2014 and 2015 combined. Tribune-Herald.

After years of delays, the mauka boat ramp at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor will finally receive a much-needed upgrade. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Sales have begun for an 86-acre, 28-lot industrial park in Central Maui, ranging in price from $16 to $24 per square foot, the broker handling the sales of the lots told Pacific Business News.

Sales began today at the Pulehunui Industrial Park, located midway between Kahului and Kīhei near Hawaiian Cement and the National Guard Armory in Puʻunēnē. Maui Now.

A national leader of health savings accounts and health policy will discuss better options for the state health care system and the public-private partnership involving the county’s three public hospitals at a lecture Jan. 11 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Maui News.

Last Denny’s restaurant in Maui County closes. Maui Watch.

Kauai

As the newly elected chair of the Hawaii Prosecuting Attorney’s Association, Justin Kollar hopes to continue working for productive relationships among key players in law enforcement. Garden Island.

The State Commission on Water Resource Management will hold a public hearing on proposed updates to the State Water Projects Plan at the Lihue Civic Center, Meeting Rooms 2A and 2B, at 6 p.m. Tuesday. Garden Island.

Almost month after volunteer cleanup, portion of trash heap to be cleared. Garden Island.

Tourism continues upward trend, cafe owner takes down anti-Trump sign, 'fake monks' harass Waikiki visitors, Hawaii County bill would outlaw government alcohol purchases, 50 nene killed in two years on Kauai, new campus for Maui charter school, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beachgoers © 2016 All Hawaii News

With 2016 all but in the books, Hawaii’s tourism industry is looking forward to 2017 and what could be a sixth straight year for record tourist arrivals and spending. Star-Advertiser.

Total visitor spending in Hawaii for the month of November was $1.2 billion, an increase of 5.6 percent compared to November last year, according to preliminary statistics released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii residents hoping to ring in the New Year while dining on sashimi are in luck, as the “catch has been good.” Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Information Practices, the state agency that oversees Hawaii’s laws on public access to government information and meetings is reducing its backlog of cases, according to its annual report released Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Cafe 8 1/2 co-owner Robert Warner on Wednesday took down a sign on the Italian restaurant’s front door telling people who voted for President-elect Donald Trump he does not want them there, but offered no regrets or apologies for putting it up in the first place. Star-Advertiser.

Millennials Make A Stand In Honolulu’s Chinatown. A few blocks from the bustle of open-air markets, the arts district gets an infusion of restaurants and other new businesses. Civil Beat.

Kmart is closing its Halawa store in mid-March as part of a nationwide strategy to unload unprofitable locations. Star-Advertiser.

Long lines outside of Iolani Palace Wednesday night for the first of just two-nights of special evening tours. The special tours are to commemorate Queen Kapiolani’s birthday. KHON2.

Daniel Grabauskas, who once headed the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, which oversee the more than $9 billion rail transit project, has found a new job in New York as an independent transportation consultant, he confirmed to Pacific Business News.

On the sidewalks of Kalakaua and Kuhio avenues in the past month, men in orange robes are hitting up tourists and workers for donations -- sometimes aggressively. Some call them "fake monks." Hawaii News Now.

The new owner of Outrigger Hotels and Resorts is moving ahead with a $90.7 million plan to redevelop the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, Pacific Business News has learned.

President Obama spent another day teeing off at the Kapolei Golf Course before dining at a new restaurant in the Ward Village area. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Stricter limits on taxpayer-funded alcohol could soon become law, under a bill to be considered next week by a County Council committee. West Hawaii Today.

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority is offering up a 1.3-acre lot for “eco-friendly” developers along what the county believes will be a major road in West Hawaii’s future. West Hawaii Today.

Like so many coastal areas in Hawai‘i, the once plentiful waters off North Kona have seen a decline in marine life over several decades.  As the state wrestles with how to manage these natural resources, some communities are stepping forward with a plan of their own. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kamehameha Schools will seek a new tenant for more than 10,000 acres of eucalyptus forest it owns on the Hamakua Coast following expiration of its current lease agreement. Tribune-Herald.

The superintendent for the West Hawaii Complex Area and the principal of the area’s largest school are both embracing the Department of Education’s new strategic plan, a plan they say finally puts more focus on educating “the whole child.” West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The South Maui Learning Ohana will break ground Friday on a new building and central campus for Kihei Charter School, which has been spread out across three separate locations for more than a decade. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. officials tried to clear up confusion over the utility’s optional rate program, which varies charges based on time of use, because of differences in the rates published in its October rollout and those on letters recently received from the utility by those who have signed up. Maui News.

Maui Memorial Medical Center has reopened its oncology unit after 16 months of construction, the hospital said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Eight nene were recently killed by vehicles along a two-mile stretch of Kaumualii Highway in Kekaha, and the state is urging drivers to slow down in that area. Garden Island.

Though the tradition of busting firecrackers is long here in the Aloha State, one must purchase a permit to ignite them on New Year’s Eve. Garden Island.

Historic Pearl Harbor visit by Obama and Abe, Hawaii reaches 25% renewable energy, Green bill to raise minimum wage, Senate President Kouchi to speak at Maui inauguration, restaurateur bans Trump supporters, Waikiki hotel closed, rare crows die in the wild, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama and Abe offer flowers at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. (Pool photo)

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe didn’t apologize Tuesday for Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago, but his landmark visit to the USS Arizona Memorial with President Barack Obama spoke volumes about reconciliation. Star-Advertiser.

In a joint appearance deep with cultural and historic significance, the leaders of Japan and the United States placed flowers at the USS Arizona Memorial on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

In a historic pilgrimage, the leaders of Japan and the United States took to the hallowed waters of Pearl Harbor on Tuesday to prove that even the bitterest enemies can become allies. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe did not apologize, but conceded Japan “must never repeat the horrors of war again.” Associated Press.

The leaders of the United States and Japan visited the USS Arizona Memorial together for the first time since the December 7th surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Hawaii Public Radio.

In a powerful gesture of reconciliation 75 years after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe joined President Obama Tuesday to lay a wreath at the USS Arizona Memorial and tell a gathered crowd that Japan "must never repeat the horrors of war again." Hawaii News Now.

The ceremonial visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Pearl Harbor, where he met with President Barack Obama and offered his “condolences,” comes amid rising tensions with Japan’s historic rival, China. Civil Beat.

President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met at Camp Smith Tuesday morning to cement alliances as the political uncertainties in the Pacific continue to grow. KITV.

It was a historic moment Tuesday when, for the first time ever, a U.S. president and the Japanese prime minister together visited the USS Arizona Memorial. KHON2.

Abe's Pearl Harbor visit in photos. Nikkei Asian Review.

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

Hawaii has made progress toward its goal of lowering its dependence on oil, cutting the number of barrels imported by 41 percent since 2006. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii currently gets 25 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources, according to a new state report. Pacific Business News.

The Aloha State got a little greener in 2015, according to the 2016 Energy Resources Coordinator’s Annual Report released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s Hawaii State Energy Office on Tuesday. Garden Island.

Under a bill drafted by state Sen. Josh Green, the minimum wage would rise to $15 an hour by 2019, from $8.50 now. Hawaii News Now.

As Hawaii residents eye the fresh ahi sashimi platters traditionally found on holiday dinner tables, major negotiations loom next year over how much tuna commercial fishermen should be allowed to catch. Civil Beat.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii is urging local residents to withdraw funds and close their accounts with First Hawaiian Bank in an act of solidarity with Dakota Access Pipeline protesters, citing the bank’s connection to its majority shareholder BNP Paribas, which is backing the pipeline project. Pacific Business News.

A longtime Honolulu journalist is moving into the public-relations business. AARP Hawaii on Tuesday announced that Craig Gima is its new communications director. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Republican state Rep. Bob McDermott has gone to court to try to force the state to provide funding to improve what he describes as “intolerable” overcrowded conditions at Campbell High School or else immediately select a site and begin construction on a new East Kapolei high school.Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu is ordering guests of the Polynesian Plaza hotel in Waikiki to be relocated out of the boutique hotel immediately because of unsafe conditions, Pacific Business News has learned.

Structural safety concerns prompted the city Department of Parks and Recreation to close the pavilion at Waimanalo Beach Park last week until further notice. Star-Advertiser.

Between the high rise buildings and industrial warehouses, a farm is the last thing you’d expect to find in urban Kaka‘ako. But one business is creating a space for growing food in an unexpected way. Hawaii Public Radio.

A longtime downtown Honolulu restaurant known for its pasta dishes and daily baked bread is now drawing attention for his poster banning Trump supporters. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has completed a bike lane from Queen Street to Ward Avenue within its 60-acre Ward Village master planned community. Pacific Business News.

A 19-year-old college student accused of killing seabirds at a Hawaii nature reserve pleaded not guilty Tuesday to animal cruelty. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The Ka‘u gym and shelter has been open for more than three months, but Hawaii County officials are now seeking reassurance that the $18 million project meets state and county building codes for emergency shelters. West Hawaii Today.

Legacy Hilo Rehabilitation &Nursing Center will lose its Medicare certification in March if it does not fix problems found during recent inspections. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Electric’s latest energy plan calls for an additional 20 megawatts of wind power on Hawaii Island in just a few years as it shifts away from fossil fuels. Tribune-Herald.

Kamehameha Schools is seeking a new tenant for 10,000 acres of former sugar lands that are planted in eucalyptus along the Hamakua Coast of Hawaii island after a company that had been logging those lands opted to surrender the lease. Star-Advertiser.

The plan to re-establish the Hawaiian crow in the wild suffered a blow as three of the five birds released into the East Hawaii wilderness were found dead last week of unknown causes. Star-Advertiser.

Less than two weeks after a small cohort of captive-bred ‘alala, endangered Hawaiian crows, was released into the wild, two of the five birds were returned to an outdoor aviary. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Senate President Ronald Kouchi will deliver the keynote address at the Maui County Council inauguration on Monday, Jan. 2, 2017 at 10 a.m. in the Council Chamber. Maui Now.

Stephanie Dunbar-Co of Molokai, Ian Robin Kaye of Lanai and Robert Parsons of Maui have been appointed by Gov. David Ige to the 15-member state Environmental Council. Maui News.

Kauai

Two Kauai residents were named to the 15-member Hawaii State Environmental Council, which provides a bridge between the public and the state Office of Environmental Quality Control. Garden Island.

Eleven sites mulled for new Oahu jail, more on Tulsi's visit with Trump, mourning Tsuji and filling his seat, tiny telescope headed for Maui mountain, Coco Palms seeks investors, Kauai sweep nets 39 violent fugitives, donor pulls funds over UH politics, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Scenic Diamond Head Road © 2016 All Hawaii News

What President-elect Donald Trump will actually do after he takes the reins of government in January from President Barack Obama remains to be seen. But nonprofit groups, lawmakers, government officials and others say Hawaii needs to remain vigilant about protecting its environment over the next four years. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard was first on a long list of visitors and potential job seekers at Trump Tower Monday, but the Hawaii Democrat didn’t ask for a position in President-elect Donald Trump’s new administration and she was not offered one, her office said. Associated Press.

Hawaii Democratic U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard met with President-elect Donald Trump in New York on Monday amid speculation that Gabbard is being considered for a high-level job in the Trump administration, including a possible appointment as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said Monday she met with President-elect Donald Trump in New York to discuss U.S. policies in Syria and on combating terrorists groups such as al-Qaida and the Islamic State, but the Hawaii Democrat and Bernie Sanders supporter was mum on whether she and Trump talked about her joining his administration. Pacific Business News.

© 2016 All Hawaii News

A spokeswoman for a Hawaii congresswoman denied claims Monday her meeting with the president-elect was about an offer to join his administration. Garden Island.

Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard made political waves Monday by sitting down with President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Rep Tulsi Gabbard on Monday morning joined a long line of job-seekers mobbing President-elect Donald Trump at his headquarters in New York City, but her staff said Friday she’s not one of the ones looking for a post in the Trump administration. Civil Beat.
==============

Prisons vs. schools: The actual food cost of each meal for the Department of Public Safety costs taxpayers about $1.85, roughly 20 cents less than school lunches. KHON2.

Roderick Becker has been appointed comptroller for the state of Hawaii and director of the state Department of Accounting and General Services following the resignation last week of Douglas Murdock.Pacific Business News.

Oahu

There are 11 possible sites for rebuilding what is now Hawaii's most crowded jail.The state Department of Public Safety on Monday announced officials are eyeing sites in Kalihi, Aiea, Kalaeloa, Mililani and Waiawa. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Department of Public Safety announced Monday an initial list of 11 sites identified for the redevelopment of the Oahu Community Correctional Center. KITV.

Eleven potential sites for a new Oahu Community Correctional Center were identified Monday by the Hawaii Department of Public Safety. Civil Beat.

Two Kalaeloa sites on a list of possible locations to rebuild the state’s largest correctional facility have raised community concerns because of the historical value of the parcels. Star-Advertiser.

Drivers of traditional taxicabs as well as Uber and Lyft vehicles sounded off with passionate testimony during a public hearing Monday on a proposed set of rules that would govern all of them under the single category of “private transportation companies and drivers.” Star-Advertiser.

UH arts donor pulls funding due to politics. Hawaii News Now.

A flaw in Farrington High School’s web security protocol caused users to get re-directed to a pornographic website, instead of being taken to one of the school’s many links.KHON2.

Hawaii leaders see win, lose, draw scenarios for rail under Trump. KHON2.

Some Hawaii residents are arguing against a proposed floating wind farm off Kaena Point, saying it could hurt wildlife and affect surfing prospects. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Foodbank's largest distributor of food to the needy is scrambling to find a new home, and warns that tons of perishable food could be wasted when operations cease on Dec. 1. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Democratic Party members will mourn the loss of state Rep. Clift Tsuji as well as select nominees to replace him during the first weekend of December. Tribune-Herald.

It’s far too late to have any impact on the 2014 election, but the Hawaii Supreme Court has agreed to hear oral arguments in January over a complaint questioning the residency status of Ron Gonzales, who unsuccessfully challenged Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille that year. West Hawaii Today.

The Public Utilities Commission will hold public hearings in December on Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s proposed rate increase for Hawaii island residents. Star-Advertiser.

Kona Community Aquatic Center could reopen as early as this weekend after crews complete repairs and maintenance work put on hold for the Ironman World Championship. West Hawaii Today.

Questions about the status of Mauna Kea as ceded lands were disallowed during cross-examination on Wednesday, part of the ongoing the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The University of Hawaii is proposing another cutting-edge mountaintop astronomy facility — this time the world’s highest-contrast optical telescope — but instead of creating a new imposing structure like the Thirty Meter Telescope or the Inouye solar telescope, it would simply replace an old one. Star-Advertiser.

Stanford Carr Development broke ground Monday on a $90 million residential neighborhood in Lahaina in West Maui, he confirmed to Pacific Business News.

A century-old park that’s hosted the fair, Richard Nixon and scores of tennis players young and old could be up for improvements in the future as the county works toward revitalizing Wailuku town. Maui News.

Hana Hwy (360) near mile marker 14 in Hana is closed to traffic in both directions due to a landslide across the road. Maui Now.

Kauai

The developers of the iconic Coco Palms Resort on Kauai are looking for investors for the project, which is scheduled to start construction in February and reopen in 2018 as part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection. Pacific Business News.

Thirty-nine fugitives on Kauai were arrested as a result of a four-day, multi-agency operation that focused on finding people charged with violent crimes. Garden Island.

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.

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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.