Showing posts with label FEMA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FEMA. Show all posts

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Hawaii on the Hill mixes promotion with politics, super PAC stirs up lt. gov. race, Ige signs pesticide bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Brian Schatz
Hawaii on the Hill PC:U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz
UPDATE: This entry has been edited to remove references to an article about gems being produced by Kilauea Volcano after debunking Thursday by scientists.

National Politics Percolate At ‘Hawaii On The Hill’ Event In DC. It’s not all about poke bowls and Spam musubi. The annual Chamber of Commerce event gives some island leaders a firsthand look at national issues. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Congressional delegation joined local government officials, small business owners, and educators at the 5th annual Hawaii on the Hill events on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Unite Here Local 5, which represents about 11,000 Hawaii hospitality, health and food service workers, endorsed Kim Coco Iwamoto for lieutenant governor on Wednesday.  Star-Advertiser.

Super PAC Dumps A Quarter-Million Dollars Into LG Race. The pro-rail carpenters union is backing state Sen. Josh Green, but one political analyst questions whether it’s payback against another candidate. Civil Beat.

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The state of Hawaii is banning a pesticide scientists have found could hinder the development of children’s brains. Associated Press.

Hawaii became the first state in the country to ban pesticides containing chlorpyrifos, a chemical that has been linked to disruptions in the brain development of babies and young children, with Gov. David Ige signing the measure into law on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige signed SB3095 Wednesday, which bans the use of pesticides containing the potentially harmful chemical chlorpyrifos starting in 2023. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii became the first state in the nation to ban chlorpyrifos with the Wednesday signing of SB3095 by Gov. David Ige. Garden Island.

Hawaii Becomes First State to Ban Neurotoxin, Chlorpyrifos. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor David Ige signed a law Wednesday, banning the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos. KITV.

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Gov. Ige Asks FEMA to Reconsider Request for Kauai & Oahu. Big Island Now.

Gov. David Ige is asking the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reconsider its initial denial of the state’s request for individual assistance for Kauai and Oahu residents affected by April’s severe storms and flooding. Garden Island.

The Hawaiian Electric Cos. have filed their Electrification of Transportation Strategic Roadmap (“EoT Roadmap”) with the state Public Utilities Commission. Star-Advertiser.

The mayors of Hawaii’s four counties are pushing ahead in their pursuit of electrifying the state’s transportation sector by signing a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday to formally join Drive Electric Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Pasha Hawaii receives 600 new refrigerated containers as part of expanded Hawaii service. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Blood Bank Paying A High Price In Its Dispute With Honolulu Rail Officials. The nonprofit wants to abandon its headquarters long before trains start rumbling nearby. But the city is offering to buy only a strip of landscaping. Civil Beat.

More frustration for Oahu residents trying to renew their driver's licenses. KHON2.

The state is investigating a case of Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially deadly form of pneumonia caused by a bacterial infection. Star-Advertiser.

Six isolated cases of Legionnaires' disease confirmed in Hawaii this year. KHON2.

The state Department of Health announced on Wednesday that they are investigating a new case of legionellosis on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Union hopes nonprofit, trust fund will help its members buy homes. Star-Advertiser.

Longtime leader of St. Francis School ousted. Sister Joan of Arc Souza, who led St. Francis School in Manoa for 27 of its 94 years as its head of school and principal, was no longer employed at the school as of Monday. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu-based hotel company has sold six of its Asia-Pacific properties to a Thai-based property development and investment holding company for $310 million. Associated Press.

Solar permits issued on Oahu rose 42 percent in May to mark the fifth straight month of increases. Star-Advertiser.

‘The Last Wild Place’ Wins National Honors. Civil Beat took readers on a visual journey through one of the most remote parts of the planet. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ige seeks assistance from federal programs. Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that Hawaii County estimates lava has destroyed approximately 455 dwellings in Leilani Estates, Lanipuna Gardens, Vacationland and Kapoho Beach Lots, of which 192 are primary residences. Many other homes throughout Puna have been cut off by lava or are uninhabitable due to poor air quality from volcanic gases. Star-Advertiser.

Federal aid for people affected by the Kilauea eruption might be approved soon after Gov. David Ige signed a request for such assistance Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii governor asks FEMA to OK individual assistance for lava claims. State agencies, the county government and nonprofit organizations have been providing assistance to individuals so far; the state has no individual assistance programs, the governor’s office said. Pacific Business News.

County hoping Disaster Assistance Center can open by weekend. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim is hoping to have a conceptual plan for a Kaikoo-style redevelopment project to help those displaced by the Kilauea eruption drafted within a month. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii mayor wants to relocate those displaced outside zones one or two. KITV.

Website aims to provide displaced lava evacuees with housing. KITV.

The incredible scope of the Big Island eruptions, a disaster with no end in sight. Hawaii News Now.

Farmers among hardest hit by eruptions with losses of more than $14M. Hawaii News Now.

Overflight Video: Rivers of Lava. Big Island Now.

VIDEO: Drone Captures Dramatic Drop At Kilauea Summit. Big Island Video News.

The National Weather Service reported Wednesday that light winds will bring vog inland and to the south, wrapping around to the Kona area. West Hawaii Today.

Distant Eruption Has Major Impact On Kona-Kohala Coast. West side residents and businesses are dealing with vog and a downturn in business, including some people cancelling their visits. Civil Beat.

Relief greets Pride of America’s return to Hawaii Island ports. West Hawaii Today.

Hundreds of animals among lava refugees. The humanitarian crisis in its sixth week on Hawaii island, forcing more than 400 people into shelters and away from erupting lava, also has taken a toll on animals in the area. Star-Advertiser.


Maui

Maui Renters Need to Work 123 Hours a Week to Afford 2-Bedroom Apartment. Maui Now.

DLNR Seeking Comments on Draft EIS for Business Park. The 280-acre DLNR Industrial and Business Park is located along Maui Veterans Highway (formerly known as Mokulele Highway) adjacent to the Hawaii National Guard Armory and the County Raceway Park in Central Maui, in the vicinity of the former Naval Air Station Puunene and Maui Humane Society. Maui Now.

Kauai

In the wake of the Kauai floods and volcanic activity on Hawaii Island, Kahuku Medical Center has raised $15,000 for the American Red Cross of Hawaii to support disaster relief efforts and those affected by recent natural disasters. Garden Island.

The southbound lane of Kuhio Highway between Nuku Street and Kapaia Road will be closed from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. beginning Wednesday, June 20, and Thursday, June 21. The closure is necessary to allow the Wastewater Management Division to continue a sewer main repair in the area. Garden Island.

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Trump plans Hawaii stopover today, FEMA assesses homeowners' volcano damage, super PAC forms to support candidates as Elections 2018 kicks off, Waikiki beach boys fight simmers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

White House photo
President Donald Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un PC:The White House
President Donald Trump planned to make a brief stopover in Hawaii after leaving Singapore following nuclear negotiations with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Star-Advertiser.

President Donald Trump will stop in Hawaii after returning from his historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the White House announced Monday. Hawaii News Now.

President Donald Trump plans to visit Andersen Air Force Base on Guam and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii on his return trip from a historic summit with North Korea's Kim Jong Un in Singapore, the Associated Press is reporting, citing the White House. Pacific Daily News.

Carpenters council supports super PAC. The Hawaii Regional Council of Carpenters — which previously backed the political action committee that mounted a multimillion-dollar campaign against former Gov. Ben Cayetano’s bid for Honolulu mayor against the rail project — is funding a new super PAC in hopes of influencing voters in the 2018 primary election. Star-Advertiser.

A Republican Governor Would Bring New Uncertainty To Rail Project. Some GOP candidates have called for radical changes in how the transit project moves forward, but they’ve also been light on specifics. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Politics Has Never Been For Sissies. Rough political attacks are nothing new. In 1874, supporters of Queen Emma physically assaulted backers of David Kalakaua in the aftermath of a royal election. Civil Beat.

Ohana Nui Concept To Address Sources of Poverty in Hawaii. The Ohana Nui program was adopted by the State Department of Human Services two years ago to address the root causes of poverty in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Tensions high as beach boys challenge decision to give concessions to Dive Oahu. It’s been two weeks since Dive Oahu has taken over the Kuhio Beach concessions and tensions continue to rise. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's Whole Foods Markets locations will start offering discounts to Amazon Prime members starting on Wednesday. KHON2.

Amazon Prime members will be able to take advantage of special savings at Whole Foods stores in Hawaii starting this week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

FEMA assesses damage; Kim estimates up to 700 homes were destroyed by lava. Tribune-Herald.

FEMA officials assessing damage from Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

The number of homes claimed by lava is now believed to be as high as 700 as vigorous eruptions on the Big Island continue. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA getting ready to offer grants up to $34,000. A federal agency is beginning on-the-ground assessments this week on Hawaii island to determine which residents may be eligible for grant money because they lost their homes to lava. Star-Advertiser.

FEMA assessing damage and lava impacts on residents. Right now efforts are underway to help residents who lost their homes get back on their feet. KITV.

Kilauea Unleashes More Small Blasts, Snaking Lava. Scientists warn against venturing too close to lava hitting water, saying it could expose people to dangers from flying debris. Associated Press.

VIDEO: USGS Kilauea volcano update, June 11, 2018. Tribune-Herald.

FEMA regional administrator Robert Fenton joined Mayor Harry Kim for a media conference in Hilo on Monday. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiian Airlines is trimming its Big Island schedule for Hilo and Kona by a total of three daily round-trip flights beginning next month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines is reducing the number of flights between Honolulu and the Big Island starting next month. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Airlines cuts daily flights to Big Island in July due to volcanic activity. KHON2.

Trial has been set in the case of the first individual accused of burglary in Leilani Estates during the current state of emergency because of Kilauea volcano lava. Tribune-Herald.

UH Hilo has been lending a hand to USGS scientists by providing real time chemistry analysis of lava samples. KHON2.

Vog From Kilauea Increases The Need For Classroom Air Conditioning. The last weeks of the school year were hard on some Big Island schools, and there’s concern about what’ll happen when they reopen Aug. 6. Civil Beat.

A GoFundMe account established in May by St. Louis Cardinals second baseman and Hilo native Kolten Wong has raised nearly $75,000 toward its $200,000 disaster relief goal in the month since eruption activity began in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Prospective governors, lieutenant governors in Kailua-Kona Friday. Candidates for the Hawaii’s highest office are headed to Kailua-Kona this week for a forum in advance of the gubernatorial primary scheduled for Aug. 11. West Hawaii Today.

Waimea Candidate Forum for Governor and Lt. Governor. Big Island Now.

Two Hawaii County Council members and two Big Island statehouse incumbents cruised to early victory this week when no candidates filed to oppose them. West Hawaii Today.

Procedural changes were made after case evidence from police storage lockers was compromised by animals, according to Hawaii island police. Associated Press.

Maui

Six doctors have joined Kaiser Permanente on Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island–this includes three new physicians on Maui. Maui Now.

The Holua backcountry camping area of Haleakala National Park will be closed to campers the night of June 13, 2018 to allow staff to control non-native Argentine ants. Maui Now.

Hawaii Governor David Ige stopped by Maui’s Kokua Puna donation drive over the weekend, sharing donations of his own and words of appreciation for volunteers. Maui Now.

Kauai

Flood recovery efforts push ahead. It’s been nearly three months since the historic flooding wreaked havoc on Kauai and there’s still much work to be done. Garden Island.

The office of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will host a workshop on U.S. Department of Agriculture and Economic Development Administration federal grants on Thursday, June 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Friday, May 11, 2018

State lawmakers tour lava zone as they mull special session, Ige seeks presidential disaster declaration for entire state, overnight rumbles predict more volcanic activity, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo by Sen. Kai Kahele
Hawaii lawmakers tour Kilauea lava flow PC: Sen. Kai Kahele
Gov. David Ige asked President Donald Trump to declare the state of Hawaii a major disaster area Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

White House, Hawaii In Contact Concerning Eruption. Big Island Video News.

Kilauea volcano is threatening to blow its top in coming days or weeks after sputtering lava for a week, forcing about 2,000 people to evacuate, destroying two dozen homes and threatening a geothermal plant. Associated Press.

Dozens of quakes overnight signal more lava outbreaks are 'likely'. Hawaii News Now.

Volcanic activity pauses along East Rift Zone, but more lava outbreaks expected. KHON2.

===== More volcano news at Hawaii Island category below =====

Gov. David Ige has signed a bill setting aside $125 million for flood recovery efforts on Kauai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has denied the state's request for federal funding after historic flooding destroyed parts of Kauai and Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii's request for aid on Kauai was denied by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. KITV.

State Director of Health Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Pressler has announced her retirement, effective June 1, according to a statement released today by Gov. David Ige.  Star-Advertiser.

Virginia Pressler will retire on June 1 from her post as director of the Hawaii state Department of Health, a post she’s held since late 2014, Gov. David Ige’s office said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s commercial swordfish fleet has been shut down for the rest of the year following a court order aimed at protecting endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Swordfish Industry Shut Down To Protect Endangered Turtles. Environmental groups have been trying to restrict the taking of turtles by longliners for the past six years. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's longline fishing industry will have to stop fishing for swordfish because of court agreement designed to protect loggerhead sea turtles. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s earnings jumped 17.7 percent in the first quarter even as the holding company’s utility shifted $9 million worth of tax reform net benefits to customers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Access to the USS Arizona Memorial is again suspended until further notice, to “address the structural integrity of the facility.” Star-Advertiser.

Structural concerns mean visitors won't be able to disembark onto Arizona Memorial. Hawaii News Now.

An Oahu grand jury has indicted Randall Saito for escape and theft six months after he walked out of the Hawaii State Hospital and flew to California. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Hospital escapee Randall Saito has been indicted by a Honolulu Grand Jury on one count of Escape in the Second Degree and four counts of Identity Theft in the First Degree. KHON2.

Efforts to control a holiday 'floatilla' event has led to a civil rights complaint against the state Land Department. Hawaii News Now.

Concerned Citizens: Homeless Sweeps in Kakaako Don't Work. Hawaii Public Radio.

A federal jury found the owner and operator of a business that provides speech language therapy primarily to children of military service members guilty Thursday of multiple counts of wire fraud, identity theft and lying to receive payment of services that were never provided. Star-Advertiser.

For Tourists Only: This Hawaii Wedding Venue Won’t Host Locals. Some wedding venues only accept destination weddings to limit the number of guests and the effect on neighbors. Civil Beat.

Students, alumni and visitors of Hawaii Pacific University added $423.1 million in income to Oahu's economy for fiscal year 2015-16, according to an economic impact study conducted by Economic Modeling Specialists International. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii State Department of Education held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new East Kapolei Middle School on Thursday. KHON2.

Retired Kailua auto dealer Mike McKenna, who appeared in newspaper and TV ads with his beloved golden retriever Hana Girl, has died. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lower Puna waited for Pele to make her next move Thursday after going more than 24 hours without seeing magma surface. Tribune-Herald.

The pentane at Puna Geothermal Venture has been removed, but Civil Defense officials remain concerned about another hidden hazard. Tribune-Herald.

More than 200 people showed up at Pahoa High and Intermediate School on Thursday night to receive updates on Kilauea’s eruption. Star-Advertiser.

7 pm Eruption Update – Flyover Of Leilani Estates. Big Island Video News.

HVO: All 15 Fissures Have Paused. The eruption has destroyed at least 25 homes, and lava has covered more than 100 acres of land. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is now closed until further notice. The gates closed at 10 pm Thursday night. Big Island Video News.

Amid ongoing eruptions, Big Island faces a daunting new problem: A housing crisis. Hawaii News Now.

When a lava evacuee returned home to get his belongings, he found a man inside. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County police charged a 29-year-old Pahoa man Thursday with burglary in connection with the suspected looting of homes in the Leilani Estates subdivision, which was under a mandatory evacuation order due to a lava eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic ash may contaminate the water supply for families with catchment systems. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Officials Need To Back Off When It Comes To Media Access To Hazardous Scenes. The disaster in Puna is dangerous, but the public has a right to know all that is going on — without government control. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Mayor Kim still the man to rely on during a crisis. Star-Advertiser.

Friends of former Mayor Billy Kenoi have planned a “worldwide prayer gathering” for noon Saturday. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island Dairy in Ookala has continued to discharge wastewater this week. Tribune-Herald.

The County Council made quick work Wednesday approving a $30.5 million bond issue for park improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A lawsuit was filed Thursday against the builders of the Front Street Apartments and the state housing agency to challenge the developer’s attempt to convert the complex to market-rate units before the end of its 50-year commitment to keep rents affordable for low-income tenants. Maui News.

Southern Connector Road Between Honoapiilani and Lahaina Bypass Opens Today. Maui Now.

Improvements continue at both ends of the Lahaina bypass, to be referred to for the time being as Route 3000, the state Department of Transportation announced Thursday. Maui News.

Several Maui residents Thursday expressed support for the embattled Office of Hawaiian Affairs chief executive officer, whose performance is being evaluated following a scathing state audit over use of funds. Maui News.

The Economic Development Administration will award $210,000 to the University of Hawaii for the Maui Food Innovation Center, which is used by agribusiness and food entrepreneurs to develop and manufacture products. Maui Now.

Kauai

Repairing Storm Damage Is A Chance To Solve Tourist Congestion. Fixing Kuhio Highway will be costly and complicated, but may provide impetus for a long-term plan limiting daily visitors in the area. Civil Beat.

More Victims Of The Kauai Flood — Tourist Vacation Rentals. Kauai County had already cracked down on hundreds of remote visitor rentals. The flood might have doomed many more. Civil Beat.

Wednesday, 32-year-old Bronson Nakaahiki of Kekaha was arrested for allegedly slicing a green sea turtle’s throat and harvesting its meat on Kekaha Beach. Garden Island.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Federal aid iffy in Kilauea volcano response, alternate road planned as cracks emerge in main thoroughfare, cancellations concern tourism officials -- lots more volcano news. Plus, homelessness drops, rail costs rise, more top news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A local pokes fun at federal volcano responders in this Facebook photo illustration PC: Gayln Williams
Federal disaster declaration iffy, governor says. The ongoing volcanic eruption does not yet appear to reach the financial threshold for a federal disaster declaration, but Gov. David Ige is exploring whether a disaster can be declared for presenting “an imminent danger to the community.” Star-Advertiser.

'Open for business': Tourism leaders say misinformation is driving spike in cancellations. Hawaii News Now.


Volcanic activity has paused at all 12 fissures although they continue to emit hazardous fumes, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Star-Advertiser.

As eruptions subside on Big Island, residents warned: 'This is not over'. Hawaii News Now.

Volcanic activity calms for now, but officials 'don't believe this is the end of it'. KHON2.

Hawaii County Civil Defense officials said Monday that a total of 35 structures, most of those homes, have been destroyed by lava flowing from the eruptions from 10 fissures on Kilauea’s east rift zone, while officials with the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the dropoff in activity from the eruption is “likely only a pause in activity.” Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County's Department of Public Works reports steam and lava emissions from a crack in Leilani Subdivision in the area of Mohala Street late Thursday afternoon. Since then, earthquakes have shook the island, and more fissures have appeared. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor David Ige visited community members and volunteers in Pahoa Monday at Puuhonua O Puna, an information center established by Big Island Civil Defense at Sacred Hearts Church. KITV.

Hawaii Island leaders addressed the crowd Monday night at the public meeting on the ongoing Puna eruption, held at the Pahoa cafeteria. Big Island Video News.

The state and Hawaii County are preparing an alternate route to Puna in case Kilauea eruptions cut off Highway 130. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is working with the County of Hawaii to prepare an alternative route in Puna should Highway 130 be cut off by the Kilauea Volcano East Rift Zone Eruption. Big Island Now.

Officials work on contingency plan should current eruption cut off highway. KHON2.

Science explains Kilauea, a volcano oozing hot lava for decades. Kilauea is not your typical blow-the-top-off kind of volcano. Associated Press.

Despite Risks, Volcano Offers Affordable Piece Of Paradise. The people here are largely self-sufficient and understand the hazards of their location. Associated Press.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports volcanic activity has subsided at all 12 fissures, but hazardous fumes remain. Star-Advertiser.

Some Leilani Estates residents stay put despite evacuation order. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic activity in Leilani impacts water supply of surrounding neighborhoods. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii island residents whose homes were destroyed by lava should be able to recover money for fire damage from their homeowners insurance policies. Star-Advertiser.

‘Business as usual’ in Lanipuna. With daily updates of more volcanic fissures opening and lava destroying homes in Leilani Estates, it’s easy to forget that Lanipuna Gardens, a smaller neighboring subdivision, also remains under evacuation order by Hawaii County Civil Defense. Tribune-Herald.

Two lava-related arrests made in Leilani Estates. Tribune-Herald.

In just the past week, people on the Big Island have felt over 1,200 earthquakes. Hawaii News Now.

The Latest: Lava update from Hawaii Island. KITV.

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Count shows big decline in homelessness, but some doubt its accuracy. Hawaii News Now.

The statewide Point-in-Time Count, a census of Hawaii’s homeless population, decreased across all islands, indicating that the state is making progress in reducing the country’s highest per capita rate of homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii saw a 9.6 percent decrease in its homeless population as compared to a year ago, according to a survey released Monday. Civil Beat.

Homelessness in Hawaii has taken a nosedive for the second consecutive year, according to the 2018 statewide Point In Time Count Report conducted in January and released Monday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Homeless Point-In-Time Count Down For 2nd Consecutive Year. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Neighbor island housing markets were mainly positive last month with mostly higher sale volume and prices on Hawaii island, Maui County and Kauai, according to data from local real estate agent trade associations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines tops $100M in baggage, change fees. Hawaiian Airlines has given no indication of changing its baggage and change-fee policies even with Southwest Airlines lurking in the distance. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A one-day census of Oahu’s homeless population decreased for the first time in nine years and resulted in the statewide Point in Time Count decreasing for the second year in a row. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s rail agency has awarded the project’s next major contract: a work package valued at as much as $400 million to relocate utilities along the route’s last four miles into town. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has awarded Nan Inc. a contract worth a maximum $400 million to relocate utilities along the proposed rail transit route through Honolulu’s city center. Pacific Business News.

Councilmember Kobayashi plans to prevent another Manoa stream flood. KITV.

Trump signs bill to add Pacific War memorial to Honolulu WWII sites. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The county Board of Ethics made quick work Monday agreeing that Kohala Councilman Tim Richards doesn’t have a conflict of interest voting on a vacation rental bill, even though he and his wife operate a vacation rental themselves. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim inched his annual spending plan up another $2.3 million in his proposed budget delivered Monday to the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Naalehu residents raise concern after wastewater treatment facility preliminary design puts it next to school. West Hawaii Today.

Heavy vog expected in West Hawaii through this week. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Statewide survey finds a slight decrease in Maui homeless people. Valley Isle’s decline lowest in state, which had overall 9.6% drop in homeless population. Maui News.

With the median sales price hitting $725,000 for a single-family home and $508,513 for a condominium, the Realtors Association of Maui statistics for April provide the latest evidence of how tough it is for working-class residents to buy homes here. Maui News.

Maui Community Correctional Center Gets 3 New Adult Correctional Officers. Maui Now.

An 11.3-acre photovoltaic solar project located in Haleakala Ranch pastures came online over the weekend. Maui Now.

Maui's first large-scale solar project goes online. On Saturday, Kenyon Energy, in partnership with Maui Electric Co., flipped the switch on its new 2.87-megawatt solar farm on the Valley Isle south side. Pacific Business News.

With help from the Small Business Development Center, Maui resident Jenna Davis created Raw Love Sunscreen, an FDA approved, water proof and coral-safe sunscreen with no harmful chemicals, preservatives or fillers. Maui Now.

Kauai

Flood relief efforts ongoing. It’s been nearly a month since historic rainfall caused catastrophic flooding on Kauai, destroying homes and cars, killing livestock and initially leaving three North Shore communities isolated. Garden Island.

Felicia Cowden has filed to run for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

The Department of Public Works is announcing that one lane of alternating traffic will be open for portions of Koloa Road to allow for the performance of pavement survey work today. Garden Island.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Hundreds of WWII remains to be exhumed from Punchbowl Cemetery, Honolulu rail tax advanced, Legislature passes bills during crossover, attorney general begins Kenoi investigation, raises for nurses, Kauai B&Bs fight new law, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
National Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, courtesy U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs
The Pentagon announced Tuesday it will take the unprecedented step of exhuming for identification the remains of all 388 sailors and Marines from the USS Oklahoma buried as "unknowns" at Punchbowl cemetery years after the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

The Pentagon said Tuesday it would exhume and try to identify the remains of nearly 400 sailors and Marines killed when the USS Oklahoma sank in the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Associated Press.

A Major new mission from the Pentagon: dig up the remains of hundreds of servicemen buried at the National Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. KITV4.

The House and Senate each passed hundreds of bills Tuesday, sending them back to their originating chamber often with big questions to be answered when it comes to funding. Medical marijuana dispensaries, the rail tax, public hospitals, transgender birth certificates, wrongful imprisonment, energy, bullying, mail-in elections and local food were on the long list of legislation that crossed over ahead of Thursday’s deadline. Some still resemble their original form. Others not so much. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers were busy Tuesday passing hundreds of bills that originated in the other house. The state Senate passed 135 House bills while the state House passed nearly 150 Senate measures. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers are tackling proposals that aim to fix the troubled health exchange, ban sex trafficking and prevent youth from smoking. Here's a sampling of the hundreds of bills that were passed on Tuesday. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Senate has approved a bill to establish a system of medical marijuana dispensaries nearly 15 years after the drug became legal in the state. The Senate passed the bill Tuesday. The next step is for senators and their colleagues in the House to work out their disagreements on how it should work. Associated Press.

A measure aimed at reining in Hawaii payday loans that can reach as high as 459 percent APR has been stripped of its new proposed cap of 36 percent, despite a legislator’s assurance that wouldn’t happen. Civil Beat.

Public opposition to Gov. David Ige’s nominations to the powerful board that administers the state’s water code is mounting ahead of a key legislative hearing Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Petition to reject Balfour passes 2,500 signatures. Ahead of tomorrow's WTL hearing on the nomination of Bill Balfour to the Water Commission, signatures continue to be added to an online petition urging the rejection of the inappropriate nomination. Hawaii Independent.

Nurses represented by the Hawaii Government Employees Association overwhelmingly ratified a new two-year contract that includes raises of 4 percent per year plus "step movements" that allow them to move up the pay ladder into higher-paid classifications. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A bill that would extend Oahu's rail tax has cleared the Senate, providing state lawmakers the chance to hash out its details — or even kill it — largely in closed-door negotiations leading up to conference committee meetings. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Senate on Tuesday passed a House bill that would extend the City and County of Honolulu's surcharge on the state's general excise tax for the rail transit project through 2027. Pacific Business News.

With Oahu's plastic bag ban just around the corner, retailers are stocking up for the switch. Island Plastic Bags in Halawa is helping customers prepare for the change at checkout counters that starts July 1. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

State Attorney General Doug Chin confirmed Tuesday that he is investigating Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of his county-issued credit card. West Hawaii Today.

Embattled Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi promised to cooperate with a state attorney general's criminal investigation into his county-financed trips to Honolulu hostess bars and other personal expenses but does not plan to talk about the issue anymore. Star-Advertiser.

The Attorney General of the State of Hawaii will investigate Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi's use of a county-issued credit card, state officials said Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Former Big Island Mayor Harry Kim said a government official called him Tuesday morning and asked him if he'd sign an impeachment petition against current Mayor Billy Kenoi, who has apologized for improperly charging more than $30,000 in personal expenses on a county credit card. Hawaii News Now.

An omnibus ethics bill sponsored by Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille proved too much to digest Tuesday for County Council members. The council Finance Committee postponed Bill 37, expanding the definition of family members for ethics purposes, changing how county contracts can be awarded to employees and how county facilities and employees’ time can be used for union-endorsed campaigning. West Hawaii Today.

A lawsuit seeking to stop Puna Geothermal Venture from drilling at night will go forward. Hilo Circuit Judge Greg Nakamura on Tuesday denied PGV’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit brought by Puna Pono Alliance and Leilani Estates residents Jon Olson and Hillary E. Wilt. Tribune-Herald.

As Mauna Kea Protests Grow, Some Hawaii Island Residents Worry About Jobs. Activists are calling for the removal of 13 observatories that support a $90 million industry on the Big Island that would grow appreciably with the Thirty Meter Telescope. Civil Beat.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has reimbursed Hawaii County more than $1.6 million in costs incurred while preparing for the lava threat from Kilauea Volcano, but county officials are still hoping for another $10 million — and counting. Star-Advertiser.

There will be no speed humps installed on Nani Kailua Drive. Following a petition by some residents for the traffic-calming devices — and protest by others — Public Works Director Warren Lee has determined the roadway doesn’t qualify for the humps. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Four men have been indicted in connection with allegations that a Speedi Shuttle manager received kickbacks while providing unauthorized payroll checks to employees during a nine-month period ending last year. Maui News.

Maui Economic Opportunity on Saturday celebrated the opening of its new 10-acre transportation facility in Puunene. Maui News.

Home sales on Maui were up in March despite a significant rise in the median home price to $627,500, according to new information released by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Nearly two dozen other visitor accommodation operators on Tuesday asked county Planning Commissioners to craft solid permitting laws and procedures for their businesses. It is something that, they say, has not been clearly defined until now. Garden Island.

Groundbreaking for the Nawiliwili Road improvements took place Tuesday in the parking lot of the Kukui Grove Center, where improvements were underway, regardless if shoppers knew about the activity taking place. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 5, 2015

Endangered Hawaiian monk seal joins manta rays in rare video, Honolulu rail takes a drubbing at Legislature, Hawaii GOP tries to make budget more transparent, FEMA extends lava emergency funds, Mokolele Airlines founder tapped for county post, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Incredible video of a monk seal up close and personal during a manta ray dive on Hawai'i Island is unlike anything you've seen before. Hawaii News Now.

New Online Tool Aims to Make State Budget More Transparent. Hawaii House, Senate Republicans launch Hawaii Open Budget Initiative. Civil Beat.

There are going to be vacancies on the Hawaii State Ethics Commission and the Campaign Spending Commission. The Judicial Council is seeking applicants to fill them. Associated Press.

A group of state lawmakers wants to strengthen the state's response to incidents of sexual assault. A proposal in the state Senate would re-establish a statewide sexual assault response program that lost its funding. The proposal also would add new steps to the assault-response process. Associated Press.

A bill to authorize the first legal medical marijuana dispensaries in Hawaii cleared a critical hurdle at the Legislature this week by winning approval from the House Finance Committee. That nod from the powerful committee that controls state funding means the bill is now positioned for a vote by the full state House of Representatives. Star-Advertiser.

Two contentious bills relating to aquarium fishing are dead in the state House of Representatives. West Hawaii Today.

A bill that seeks to make a voluntary pesticide disclosure program mandatory made it through its final stage of review in the Senate. But Senate Bill 1037 did not advance without undergoing substantial changes. Garden Island.

When the Hawaii Legislature passed Senate Bill 1087 in 2013, the bill was hailed as a way to democratize access to energy-saving technology, such as rooftop photovoltaic installations. Nearly two years later, as the program anticipated in the legislation is beginning to take shape, its scope is far more modest and bears little resemblance to the hype. Civil Beat.

A weather camera system proven to be effective in Alaska could prevent potentially fatal accidents for Hawaii's small planes and helicopter tours, but the Federal Aviation Administration will delay the installation of such a system for the Islands and the Mainland, citing budget issues and competition from other FAA programs. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa this week announced the creation of the Hawaii Groundwater &Geothermal Resource Center, an online clearing house of data on island — and state — water wells and also the volcanic hotspots where new geothermal ventures could be added to the often controversial existing ones. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu
Amid a day packed with blunt questions and impassioned testimony on the future of Oahu rail, state lawmakers advanced bills Wednesday that would extend the state tax funding most of the cash-strapped project. Star-Advertiser.

If there was one message state lawmakers wanted to send Wednesday to Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and others trying to build the city’s $6 billion rail system it was this: Show us some skin. Committees in the House and Senate passed different measures that would severely limit how much tax revenue the city can collect for its beleaguered rail project, which is now facing a nearly $1 billion deficit. Civil Beat.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee conducted a 4-hour hearing today on a proposal to extend Honolulu’s half-of-a percentage share of the state’s excise tax to fund budget shortfalls for rail transit. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state Senate panel is approving a bill extending a surcharge to the general excise tax Honolulu imposes to raise money for its rail line. Associated Press.

Groups opposed to development in Malaekahana voiced their concerns about the Envision Laie plan at a Honolulu Hale news conference Wednesday, the day before the issue will be heard by a Honolulu City Council committee. Star-Advertiser.

A plan to set aside a limited number of city-controlled parking spaces for car-sharing company operations cleared the City Council Budget Committee Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

At the February 10, 2015 Waikiki Neighborhood Board meeting, the board members present voted unanimously (14-0-0) to oppose House Bill 1322 (relating to a homeless person’s bill of rights). The bill has since crossed over to the Senate side. Hawaii Independent.

The state Department of Agriculture is asking for the public's assistance in tracking down the source of a recently discovered coconut rhinoceros beetle infestation in Nanakuli. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s ban on plastic bags goes into effect on July 1 so that means no more plastic bags when you check out. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Federal Emergency Management Agency expanded its public assistance program for the June 27 lava flow to include debris removal and infrastructure repairs, the agency announced Wednesday. That move amends President Barack Obama’s disaster declaration from Nov. 3 and allows Hawaii County to seek reimbursement for the cost of reopening the Pahoa solid waste transfer station. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has tapped the founder of Mokulele Airlines to head the county Department of Research and Development. Rebecca Kawehi Inaba, 50, a former pilot who created her own airline and then went on to form several other companies, most recently the Fit Xpress Hawaii Inc. women’s gym in Kailua-Kona, was unanimously confirmed Wednesday by the Hawaii County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Vietnam War veteran Charles Thompson stood up and pleaded for quicker medical care and help at a town hall meeting Wednesday for one reason — his grandson. It was his third time requesting assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Stunning images of Maui’s past are captured in present day photography as resident Daniel Sullivan brings the story of the island’s King’s Highway to light. Maui Now.

The Maui County Council confirmed the reappointment of John D. Kim as Maui County prosecuting attorney at a special meeting Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

The wait for a four-lane highway across the Lihue Mill Bridge will come to an end soon as state Department of Transportation officials prepare to reopen the final two lanes needed to complete the nearly two-year, $43.5 million project. Garden Island.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Hawaii mayor signs emergency proclamation as lava advances, Mauna Loa volcano grumbles with earthquakes, Council on Revenues lowers forecast, sex ed curriculum approved, FEMA releases Maui flood maps, state Senate power struggle underway, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USGS
Lava flow seen in deep cracks, courtesy USGS
Mayor Billy Kenoi signed an emergency proclamation Thursday as residents of Hawaii Island's Kaohe Homesteads subdivision learned that lava from Kilauea Volcano was just 0.8 of a mile away and could reach them within a week. Star-Advertiser.

With a lava flow potentially days from reaching Kaohe Homesteads, several Puna residents pressed Hawaii County officials at a meeting Thursday evening to try to divert or stop its advance. And just as many in the crowd responded — leave Pele alone. Tribune-Herald.

courtesy USGS
Lava flow, courtesy USGS
Lava from Kilauea continues to inch its way closer to homes in Puna. Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi signed Thursday an emergency proclamation for the advancing lava flow in the Wao Kele O Puna area after the flow extended to less than a mile from the edge of the Kaohe Homesteads subdivision. KHON2.

Rural Hawaii residents still recovering from a recent tropical storm are keeping a nervous eye on slowly advancing lava that may reach their community within a week. Lava from Kilauea volcano is within less than a mile of Kaohe Homesteads, authorities said. Lava could reach the community in five to seven days if it continues on its current path, geologists with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said. Associated Press.

Scientists have recently recorded increased seismic activity at Mauna Loa volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii. In their most recent monthly report, United States Geological Survey scientists noted the largest swarm of small earthquakes in almost a decade. Hawaii News Now.

The state will have at least $100 million less than expected to fund government programs and pay public workers over the next year, based on the Hawaii Council on Revenues’ latest forecast. It was the fifth quarterly meeting in a row that the council has downgraded its revenue forecast. Civil Beat.

The Council on Revenues sharply lowered its forecast for Hawaii economic growth. Hawaii News Now.

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona said Thursday that he supports an Early College program that would help set low-income public school students on paths toward college and business careers. Star-Advertiser.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Duke Aiona told a group of supporters Wednesday in Hilo that he expects a close finish in the Nov. 4 general election. Tribune-Herald.

Even with the general election still eight weeks away, maneuvering for top positions and chairmanships in the Hawaii state Senate is already under way. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is too small of a market to be a test bed for energy innovation, and the rest of the world should take the lead in this crucial area, according to an internationally-known energy expert. Pacific Business News.

The controversial Pono Choices sex education program can again be taught in public middle schools, the Department of Education announced Thursday, saying several revisions have made by the program's developers at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to improve the curriculum and address public concerns. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge on Thursday approved $2.4 million in settlements between the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and four Hawaii farms as co-defendants in a discrimination suit filed against Global Horizons, an employment agency that managed and mistreated 500 Thai farmworkers. Garden Island.

Oahu

A scathing audit of the city Department of Customer Services' Motor Vehicle, Licensing and Permits Division found the often-criticized agency lacking -- largely in the area of customer service. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The U.S. Department of Agriculture designated Hawaii County on Wednesday as a primary natural disaster area because of damage and losses caused by Tropical Storm Iselle. Tribune-Herald.

Federal disaster loans and other assistance are available for farmers who suffered losses from the wind, rain, and flooding from Tropical Storm Iselle. Star-Advertiser.

A conflicted Windward Planning Commission, faced with two dozen speakers asking it to slow down a study of health impacts of the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, on Thursday told the county administration to seek input from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. West Hawaii Today.

Four independent scientists say they see no impact from freshwater pumping on resources within Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, a former Department of Land and Natural Resources chairman said Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has released new flood insurance rate maps that have been revised for areas of Molokaʻi and Maui. Maui Now.

Kihei police Capt. Tivoli Faaumu is the top choice to be the next police chief among Maui County police officers who want to see change, a police union official said Wednesday. Maui News.

As promised, Mayor Alan Arakawa's administration submitted a proposed budget amendment Wednesday afternoon requesting four expansion positions for the Environmental Management Department that were previously denied by the Maui County Council to end the reductions in landfill and trash pickup services. Maui News.

Construction has just begun on a large sports development in central Maui. But while young athletes and their coaches may be excited about the project, a group of local homeowners in Kahului is not. And they’re suing the county and the state to stop it. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Brigitte D’Annibale has lived in Puhi for the past 15 years and said she has seen the heavily-traveled thoroughfare in front of her home, Puhi Road, gradually fall apart. Garden Island.

Friday, August 29, 2014

Big bucks pouring into GMO battle, homeless tent city planned for Sand Island, Supreme Court dismisses election challenge, Abercrombie to appeal FEMA rejection, group appeals Thirty Meter Telescope ruling, hospital layoffs loom, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

photo courtesy University of Hawaii
University of Hawaii GMO researcher James Brewbaker, courtesy photo
The Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation is planning a $400,000 public relations campaign to generate support for farmers and persuade voters to support genetic engineering in agriculture. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a primary election challenge by the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii, which had alleged that six voters on Hawaii island had been deprived of their constitutional right to vote by the state's actions in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Iselle. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court sided with the state today and dismissed an election challenge launched by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of Big Island voters who were unable to cast ballots on Aug. 9 due to Tropical Storm Iselle. Civil Beat.

The state Supreme Court has rejected an ACLU lawsuit on behalf of voters in Puna. The American Civil Liberties Union and six Puna voters say they were denied their right to vote because the election was held when conditions after Tropical Storm Iselle made it impossible for them to leave their homes. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Supreme Court rejected a lawsuit seeking to allow voters on the storm-damaged Big Island to vote. The court said in an opinion released Thursday that it didn’t have jurisdiction to grant the relief sought by the American Civil Liberties Union with the lawsuit. Associated Press.

The financially strapped Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, which runs 13 state hospital facilities across Hawaii, announced Thursday it will lay off less than one percent of its workforce, but warned more layoffs may be looming. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of people who work for Hawaii’s public hospital system are expected to receive official notices within the next week that they are going to be laid off. The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation said Thursday that it is implementing a system-wide reduction in force, eliminating positions as early as mid-December, to help address a $48 million shortfall for fiscal 2015. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s recent hearings in Hawai‘i revealed a number of those testifying believe the U.S. government does not have jurisdiction over these islands. The Interior Department hearings are a starting point for a broader discussion this coming Tuesday at the William S. Richardson School of Law. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii tourism officials are courting about a dozen airlines not currently serving Hawaii, which they hope will some day set up shop here. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge in Hawaii says she won't consider approving $2.4 million in settlements for hundreds of Thai farm workers until the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission holds a news conference clarifying that the agreements are still subject to court approval. The EEOC is planning a news conference in Honolulu on Friday to comply with the order. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city is negotiating with the state to use vacant property at Sand Island as a temporary site for Oahu's homeless individuals and families to set up tents and receive help from service providers, Caldwell administration officials told members of the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s homeless may have a new housing option — tents on Sand Island. Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration has been working to procure a parcel of land on the small island off of Honolulu Harbor as a temporary housing solution for the street homeless population. Civil Beat.

State Rep. Calvin Say's residency in the district he represents and his ability to continue to represent that district in Hawaii’s state House is being threatened in state Circuit Court. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaiian Electric Co. President and CEO Dick Rosenblum defended the utility's proposed rate changes Thursday, including the $55 minimum rate for all customers and higher monthly charge for new solar owners. Star-Advertiser.

The USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., is looking at new markets to generate revenue to pay for improvements and maintenance for the Battleship Missouri Memorial in Pearl Harbor, and has hired a sales manager within the past year to focus on the China and Japan visitor markets for one of Hawaii's most popular visitor attractions. Pacific Business News.

Members of the City Council on Thursday continued to explore Honolulu's nascent paid ride-sharing industry and openly asked whether it should be up to the city or state to impose regulations similar to the rules required of the city's 1,500 taxicab drivers. Star-Advertiser.

There could be fewer moderate-priced homes in the Ward Village master-planned community in Kakaako if the state approves a request from project developer Howard Hughes Corp. Star-Advertiser.

The books and computers are ready, but more than three years after construction began, students at Waialua Elementary School still can’t use their new library and media center. Construction began in Jan. 2011. Now, there’s a $3.3 million building on campus that looks ready to use, but sits empty. KHON2.

Hawaii

The state plans to appeal a decision by the Federal Emergency Management Agency denying a request for a major disaster declaration that would provide federal aid to assist in the recovery from damage inflicted by Tropical Storm Iselle. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Billy Kenoi said he is “very disappointed” by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s decision to deny the state’s request for a major disaster declaration in the wake of Tropical Storm Iselle. Tribune-Herald.

Six Kona Community Hospital employees are among 34 Hawaii Health Systems Corp. workers set to lose their jobs by December. HHSC Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Alice Hall said the number of affected employees is lower than some workers expected, based on HHSC officials’ warnings after seeing how much funding the state Legislature provided for this year. West Hawaii Today.

Civil Defense officials will call for an evacuation should a worrisome lava flow approaching neighborhoods near Pahoa appear to be within five days of encroaching on populated areas. Such a possibility is still a long way off, however, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Scientist-in-Charge Jim Kauahikaua told a packed house Thursday night at the Pahoa Community Center. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists with U.S. Geological Survey say steam was spotted rising above a crack extending east beyond the end of the lava pad, suggesting that lava was once again advancing within a crack below ground. Hawaii News Now.

Four Big Island residents denied a contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope’s sublease are taking the issue to court. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

There was no clear consensus this week on how a federal judge's ruling against a Kauai County pesticides and bioengineered crops bill would affect a Nov. 4 vote on an initiative measure calling for a moratorium on genetically modified crops and activities in Maui County. Maui News.

The public is being asked weigh in on a proposed Maui affordable housing project for seniors. The Maui County Land Use Committee has scheduled a site inspection and meeting next week to consider the proposed Hale Mahaolu Ewalu Senior Residential Housing Project. Associated Press.

Maui Memorial Medical Center administrators said this week that they do not anticipate cutting staff positions other than those associated with the closure of the hospital's adolescent behavioral health unit, Molokini II, at least for now. Maui News.

A fever chart for Maui Electric Co.'s customer bills from 2014 to 2030 shows monthly residential prices dropping from the current average, nearly $230 per month, to a bit more than $160 per month in 2030. Maui News.

A former officer with the Maui Police Department filed a lawsuit alleging disability discrimination against the County of Maui and former Police Chief Gary Yabuta following the officer’s termination in December 2013, after 13 years of service. Maui Now.

Kauai

Garden Isle greenbacks. A look at the money being spent in KauaÊ»i County’s legal battle to preserve Ordinance 960, regulating pesticides and GMOs. Hawaii Independent.

Arguing tax reform. Residents sound off, officials explain why changes were necessary. Garden Island.