Maui, Kauai sued over 2024 election data, recount starts today in two Oahu races, PUC approves bid solicitations for renewable energy projects on Hawaii Island and Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Maui, Kaua‘i counties sued over 2024 election data. Maui and Kaua‘i county officials have been sued in federal court amid ongoing questions about the state’s management of voter rolls during the 2024 election. The Public Interest Legal Foundation on Friday sued the Maui and Kaua‘i county clerks — Moana Lutey and Jade K. Fountain-Tanigawa, respectively, arguing the two had failed to comply with the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. Aloha State Daily.

GOP gubernatorial, Lt. Gov. candidates discuss effort to surpass dominant Democrats. The Republican candidates for Hawaii governor and lieutenant governor held their first joint campaign meeting Monday, discussing strategies for the upcoming general election as the underdogs of both races. Hawaii News Now.

A tropical cyclone may impact some of the islands this weekend, the National Weather Service of Honolulu reported on Aug. 10. If a cyclone forms, which is likely, it will be named Lala. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. 

Renewable energy project proposals sought. The state Public Utilities Commission has approved another round of utility-­scale renewable energy project additions to island power grids through competitive bids. Under the approval issued Friday, Hawaiian Electric is accepting proposals through late January from renewable energy development firms for projects on Oahu and Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Man accused of threatening to kill Tulsi Gabbard’s husband. A 23-year-old Georgia man was arrested by the FBI after he allegedly became infatuated with former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, moved to Oahu and threatened to kill her husband. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi Schools’ New Cellphone Ban Is Here. What Are Teens Saying? This school year marks the start of Hawaiʻi’s statewide cellphone policy, which bans the devices during the school day for elementary and middle school students. In the high schools, students can’t use their phones during class but can check them during recess, lunch and passing periods. Civil Beat.

He Oversaw Airports And Billions Of Dollars. Now He’s Accused Of Taking Bribes. Ford Fuchigami, who is on leave pending a review of his work, had “an extraordinary career as a public servant” before being charged in Hawaiʻi’s latest political corruption case. Civil Beat.

More than 300K jury questionnaires will be mailed across the islands. More than 300,000 of these juror questionnaires will be sent to randomly selected individuals who have a Hawaiʻi state driver’s license or are registered to vote in Hawaiʻi.  KHON2.

Oahu

How A Young Challenger Defeated Hawaiʻi’s Longest-Serving Lawmaker. Jackson Sayama worked hard for Les Ihara’s Senate seat. He focused on getting things done, Ihara on lofty ideas of better government. Civil Beat.

Recount for two state legislative seats in primary election scheduled for Tuesday. Incumbent state Sen. Kurt Fevella (R, Ewa Beach-Ocean Pointe-Iroquois Point) was leading over longtime Republican politician Bob McDermott when the second and last election results of Saturday night had Fevella ahead by 47 votes, 1,068 to 1,021. But when Sunday morning’s results came out, the race flipped, with Fevella trailing by only seven votes, 1,211 to 1,204. The difference between victory and defeat is even tighter for the House Republican primary to represent Kapolei-Makakilo. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.   KHON2.

Aloha Stadium prepares for next round of milestones. New renderings for the 31,000-seat stadium are expected soon, while groundbreaking is targeted to begin toward the end of the year. Aloha State Daily.

Hawaii Island

General election matchups are set, but multiple candidates won their seats outright Saturday. Hawaii County Council elections are nonpartisan. Incumbents who won their council seats outright on Saturday by getting at least 50% plus one vote include: Holeka Inaba, who was unopposed in his District 8 race; Heather Kimball, who ousted Ren Del Rosario and BJ Penn in District 1; Dennis Onishi, who defeated Kelton Chang in District 3; and James Hustace, who was unopposed in District 9. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Waikoloa School Campus Gets A Makeover. Volunteers recently completed a beautification project at Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School before the start of the school year. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. 

Maui

Maui police disband unit led by officer accused of corruption. The Maui Police Department’s Criminal Intelligence Unit was shut down after its commander was charged in a federal corruption investigation with taking cash to set up cockfighting operations and protect sales of cocaine, methamphetamine and illegal aerial fireworks. Star-Advertiser.

MPD to honor Officer Suzanne O while promoting bill named in her honor. The Maui Police Department is inviting the community to participate in a series of sign-waving events Aug. 10-15 to honor Officer Suzanne O on the one-year anniversary of her death and encourage passage of legislation named in her honor. Maui News.

Bissen, Sugimura advance to general election in race for Maui County Mayor. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen is headed into the November general election after leading Saturday's primary by more than 12 percentage points, according to the most recent preliminary voting results. Maui News.

‘Dangerously Close To Capacity’: Maui Weighs $53M Kīhei Desalination Plant. Community members gave the idea a lukewarm reception when the Maui Department of Water Supply shared details. Civil Beat.

Appeals court orders Maui Planning Commission to revisit preparation of an environmental review for Honuaʻula project. The Hawaiʻi Intermediate Court of Appeals ordered the Maui Planning Commission Thursday to reconsider whether developers of the Honuaʻula master-planned community in South Maui—formerly known as Wailea 670—need to prepare a supplemental environmental impact statement, although the court upheld the commission on other points raised by groups challenging the project. Maui Now.

Sudden and unexplained illness in honeycreepers reported at Maui Bird Conservation Center. Representatives with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance have released a statement expressing sadness following an increase in honeycreeper deaths at the Maui Bird Conservation Center. The sudden and unexplained illness has impacted birds at the facility, primarily ʻakikiki. Maui Now.

Kauai

Families of Kauai tour helicopter crash victims file lawsuit. The families of Patrick J. Haskell and Margaret Rimmler — the married couple killed in the Kauai helicopter tour crash on March 26 — have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the helicopter tour operator and related companies. Garden Island.

FEMA reviews Hawaii Covid funding in wake of corruption investigation, PUC rejects HECO power plant proposal, Hawaiian Telcom nets $150M broadband contract, Peter Boy siblings get $3.25M from state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

FEMA reviews Hawaii’s COVID funding after Sylvia Luke indictment. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reviewing FEMA-­funded COVID-19 work that has been tied to the public corruption indictment of Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and four others, and the agency said it may seek repayment or other enforcement actions if it finds improper spending. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Could Hit New Low For Voter Turnout This Year. Oʻahu voters seem apathetic. But competitive mayoral races on Kauaʻi and Maui, where candidates have spent big, are energizing voters. Civil Beat.

New images of the sun show its surface in the finest detail yet.  Researchers were able to peek at its scorching surface with the help of the National Science Foundation’s Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii.  Associated Press. Reuters. 

Anti-war advocates protest RIMPAC in Hawai'i. The 30th Rim of the Pacific, or RIMPAC exercise, ended last week, but dozens of anti-war advocates gathered at the state Capitol Tuesday to protest military action across the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi Moves Forward With $150M Fiber Optic Broadband Expansion. Hawaiian Telcom has been contracted to deliver fiber-optic service to approximately 5,800 homes that currently lack modern broadband access. Big Island Video News. Garden Island.

Oahu

PUC rejects HECO’s power plant proposal ‘without demonstration of need’. The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission declined Hawaiian Electric Co.’s request to add a 500-megawatt power plant, finding that it would not be in the public’s best interest to move forward without identifying whether Oahu needs it. Star-Advertiser.

With Waters’ departure, 3 vie for East Honolulu Council seat. East Honolulu’s City Council race has been reshaped after Council Chair Tommy Waters was disqualified from seeking a third consecutive term, leaving three candidates vying for the seat he has held since 2019. In District 4, former Council member Trevor Ozawa, small-business owner Tara Malia Gregory and city employee Jason Liang are competing to represent the area stretching from Waikiki to Hawaii Kai. Star-Advertiser.

JERA takes public comment on importing LNG to power Hawaiʻi. JERA Americas held the first of two community meeting events in Honolulu on Aug. 3, which drew about 75 people. Hawaii Public Radio.

OCCC inmate captured after nearly 11-hour manhunt. An inmate who escaped from the Oahu Community Correctional Center Wednesday morning was captured after a manhunt that lasted nearly 11 hours. Joseph Tauilemua, 20, was arrested on military property at around 8 p.m. by Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam police, according to the Honolulu Police Department.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Honolulu police use drones as first responders in 2 districts. The Honolulu Police Department is using drones as first responders to 911 calls for police service and requests for help in two patrol districts as part of a push to use technology to expand public safety. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed master plan for Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden includes new tourist fee. Dozens of community members joined botanical garden staff Wednesday night for an interactive presentation of the near-final master plan for Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden, which includes proposals for renovated facilities and a tourist entry fee. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

State agrees to $3.25M settlement with Peter Boy Kema’s siblings. The state has agreed to apologize and pay $3.25 million to the siblings of Peter “Pepe” Kema to settle a years-long civil lawsuit over the 6-year-old’s tragic death. An attorney for the Kema family said the proposed agreement would compensate Chauntelle, Allan, and Lina Acol, who filed the lawsuit against the state in 2018. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi Island lawmakers set to redefine role of main economic agency. The Department of Research and Development collects economic data and supports local industries like agriculture, energy, and tourism. Some county council members say the department’s mandate in county code is vague. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi County reaches agreement with landowner to prevent eminent domain for widening of a Puna road. The Hawaiʻi County Council was going to vote Wednesday on whether to authorize condemnation of 3.74 acres of land to make Government Beach Road safer, but was asked to postpone the decision to allow for the agreement to be finalized with Lum Family Enterprises. Big Island Now.

Council OK’s coconut rhinoceros beetle resolution urging state to do more. Advocates for a new rule aimed at stopping the spread of the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle on Hawaii Island say that its implementation and enforcement has been lacking since going into effect earlier this year. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County’s District 4 is an open council seat with Ashley Kierkiewicz unable to run due to term limits. The candidates are Shannon Smiley Burrows, Lloyd Enriquez, Cyd Makanui Hoffeld, and Eileen O’Hara. Big Island Now.

Kona Community Hospital verified as level III trauma Center. The designation, given by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma, means the hospital meets criteria to care for critically injured trauma patients, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui police lieutenant arrested by the FBI. Lieutenant Michael Vaitu‘ulala, a Maui Police Department lieutenant suspended earlier this year after allegations he covered for a New Year’s Eve party featuring illegal aerial fireworks was arrested by FBI agents Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. 

Infrastructure improvements underway at new Līpoa, master-planned community in South Maui. Pacific Rim Land is underway with infrastructure improvements at Līpoa, a 400-acre mixed-use, master-planned innovation community in South Maui featuring commercial, residential and recreation spaces. Maui Now.

Additional Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) detections on Maui prompt community action alert. Following two recent detections in Central Maui, the Maui Invasive Species Committee (MISC) is urging the community to remain alert for invasive coconut rhinoceros beetles. Maui Now.

A Viral Hawaiian Monk Seal Changes The Conversation On Molokaʻi. A critically endangered seal’s chance encounter with the owner of a popular local social media account has brought community members together after recent killings of the protected species. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Six candidates battle in Aug. 8 primary to become Kauaʻi’s next mayor. The candidates, which include three current Kauaʻi County Council members, are all running to replace term-limited Derek S.K. Kawakami.  Three of the candidates are currently county council members: Chair Mel Rapozo, Felicia Cowden, and Bernard Carvalho Jr., who also formerly served as mayor. The other candidates are Laura Andaya-Lindsey, Michaela Widener and Megeso William Denis. Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi County launches solid waste infrastructure survey. Kauaʻi County Solid Waste Division recently launched a countywide survey — limited to a randomly selected sample of Kauaʻi residents — to help county officials better understand resident views about landfills and long-term solid waste needs. Kauai Now.

State poised to disburse $129M in green fee proceeds, new DLNR rules seek to protect wildlife, corruption defendants could lose half their government pensions if convicted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Applications open for initial Hawaiʻi Green Fee funding opportunities. Community organizations, nonprofits, Native Hawaiian organizations, conservation groups and other eligible entities are encouraged to apply for $129 million in funding through the State of Hawaiʻi’s initial Green Fee Requests for Proposals. Big Island Now.

State wants new protections for native wildlife. To protect threatened and endangered indigenous wildlife across the islands, the Department of Land and Natural Resources announced proposed changes to state law on Tuesday. The changes aim to address harassment toward animals, feeding them, changing their habitat, and harmful species that travel through plants.  Hawaii News Now.

Corruption Defendants, If Convicted, Could Lose Half Their Pensions. The latest bribery case could be the first opportunity for a judge to apply Hawaiʻi’s new pension forfeiture law.  Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, ex-state Rep. Ryan Yamane, Ford Fuchigami, airport administrator of the Department of Transportation and former member of the state Senate’s budget staff, and Leo Asuncion, a state planning official, former chair of the Public Utilities Commission and Luke’s former campaign treasurer, all face bribery charges.
Civil Beat.

Guard Deployment To Washington Into 2029 Will Cost Roughly $1.4B. Hawai‘i will bring home its 27 members later this month after the Freedom 250 Grand Prix. Associated Press.

OHA at-large races draw crowded primary field. Five incumbents are seeking another term on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees in the Aug. 8 primary election, with the crowded at-large race featuring 15 candidates competing for three seats. Star-Advertiser.

Kupu Awarded $1.75 Million AmeriCorps Grant. Kupu, a nonprofit conservation and youth education organization in Hawaiʻi, has received a federal grant of $1.75 million from AmeriCorps.  Big Island Video News.

Oahu

‘Out Of Options’: Siting Oʻahu’s New Landfill Is A Political Nightmare. Mayor Rick Blangiardi is in an impossible position. With the island’s only municipal landfill ordered to close by 2031, he needs to find a new place to put the island’s trash. But his first three suggestions have been shouted down by communities who refuse to play host to a dump.  Civil Beat.

Cost Of Honolulu Rail Line At Risk Of Climbing Again. A recent analysis suggests the total cost of rail may rise to $10.19 billion, about $111 million more than the current budget. Civil Beat.

HPD launches drone first responder pilot program. The Honolulu Police Department is launching a new pilot program Wednesday that will allow drones to respond to certain 911 calls before officers arrive. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

AI tool will be required for residential permit applications. Applicants for residential permits in Honolulu will be required to use an AI tool to double-check their work starting in September. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hanauma Bay closure extended for additional repairs. The temporary closure of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve has been extended by one week due to additional sewer-related repairs. The City and County of Honolulu said the preserve is now scheduled to reopen to the public on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Hawaii News Now.

Access to land is one of the biggest issues for Oʻahu farmers. Access to land is one of the most significant barriers for farmers’ success on Oʻahu, according to an interim report from the Honolulu City Council's Agricultural Development Task Force. It published its interim report in July with three key findings, one of the most significant being the “availability, affordability, and long-term protection of agricultural land.” Hawaii Public Radio.

Residents react to post-storm clearing of Manoa Stream.  While Manoa residents are pleased to see mitigation work begin on the stream, many still had questions about the scope and nature of the project, and how it will prevent future floods. The project was funded through $9.5 million from the state’s Major Disaster Fund. Star-Advertiser.

Tommy Waters faces uphill battle with appeal, attorney says. Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters’ appeal of a ruling that disqualified his reelection bid faces major hurdles in court and is unlikely to be heard before Saturday’s primary, an attorney with expertise in election law says. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

District 1: Incumbent Councilwoman Heather Kimball seeks re-election for 4th and final term against two challengers. Kimball is being challenged by retired entrepreneur Ren del Rosario and UFC Hall of Famer BJ Penn. Big Island Now.

Zoo optimistic after implementing admission fees: More than $500,000 collected. A little less than a year after the Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens began charging admission fees, the county-owned and operated park has netted over half a million dollars in revenue. Tribune-Herald.

DKI Highway safety crackdown continues with 283 citations in three days. Hawaii Island police said they issued 283 citations on Saddle Road between July 31 and Aug. 2. This includes 174 speeding citations, 13 moving citations, 12 seatbelt citations, one child restraint citation, eight unsafe overtaking citations, 35 motor vehicle registration and one OVUII arrest. KHON2.

Ha‘aheo Elementary School reopens after 3-year, $25 million project to expand campus in North Hilo. The 138-year-old Ha‘aheo Elementary School is welcoming students back to its renovated campus in North Hilo on Wednesday following a $25 million construction project that doubled the size of the campus facilities, with the addition of three new buildings. Big Island Now.

Maui

Resort riot attracts unwanted attention for Maui tourism. A California family’s widely shared account of an alleged hate-motivated attack while vacationing in West Maui has raised concerns that the negative national publicity could hamper the island’s fragile tourism recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County mayoral primary narrows 10-candidate field to 2 on Saturday. The three candidates who have raised the most campaign funds are incumbent Mayor Richard Bissen, Maui County Councilwoman Yuki Lei Sugimura and real estate broker P. Denise La Costa. Hawaii News Now.

East Maui Water Authority accepting grant applications. From Aug. 12 to Oct. 1, the East Maui Water Authority will accept applications for grants supporting watershed restoration, education, research and cultural knowledge-sharing benefiting Huelo, Honomanū, Keʻanae and Nāhiku. Maui News.

Hawaiian Community Assets announces first Maui Strong homes ready for wildfire survivor families beginning Aug. 28. Hawaiian Community Assets, a statewide nonprofit housing counseling agency, announced that the first four Wailuku homes offered through its Ua Hale Aʻela program for Maui wildfire survivors will be available for occupancy beginning Aug. 28, 2026.  Maui Now.

Lahaina voices: 'Coming home for me is multilayered'. Aug. 8 will mark three years since the 2023 wildfires destroyed Lahaina town and parts of upcountry Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Rep. Jill Tokuda visits Lahaina three years after the fire. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda recently visited the Valley Isle to attend Lahaina Homecoming.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Chan Zuckerberg Fund invests more than $330,000 for Kauaʻiʻs education. Kauaʻi's schools have received over $330,000 in unrestricted funds from the Chan Zuckerberg Kauaʻi Community Fund.  To kick off the school year, the Chan Zuckerberg Kauaʻi Community Fund announced $330,000 in grants to support all 16 of Kauaʻi’s public schools, the island’s seven public charter schools and Kumu’s Cupboard, a Līhuʻe nonprofit that provides free classroom supplies to teachers and other educational support staff throughout the year. Kauai Now. Garden Island. 

Dela Cruz silent on indictment of former staffer, judge allows Trump administration to refile fossil fuels lawsuit against Hawaii, back to school with more HPD officers on Oahu campuses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Dela Cruz Silent On Bribery Charges Leveled At Former Staff Member. The Senate says the job duties of former staffer Ford Fuchigami, now accused of bribery, didn’t include work on Covid-19 emergency funds. Civil Beat.

Many Candidates For Hawaiʻi Legislature Favor Changes To Business As Usual. Challengers support term limits, investigations when legislators behave badly and better reporting on the financial impact of bills. Civil Beat.

Judge allows feds to file new fossil fuels lawsuit against Hawaii. The Trump administration can now refile its lawsuit to stop Hawaii from suing fossil fuel companies, a judge has ruled. The United States sued Hawaii in April 2025, seeking to stop the state from filing a planned lawsuit against major oil companies for deceptive marketing practices that contributed to climate change harms. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii joins states suing Trump over benefits data sharing with ICE. Hawaii joined a coalition of Democratic-led U.S. states Monday  to sue the Trump administration over a new policy allowing federal immigration authorities to access information on low-income families in cash-assistance programs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii advocates worry about federal overhaul of Head Start preschool program. The federal government is expected to change the rules to increase local control, cut administrative burdens and shift education standards to states. KITV4.

Hawaii public schools reopen for new academic year. State Department of Education officials said Monday was the official start of Hawaii’s 2026-27 academic year, but schools can set their own schedules and use the first day differently, including for professional development. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii facing ‘sluggish’ job growth through 2034. Overall, the top five best opportunities include jobs for registered nurses, carpenters and bartenders. On the other hand, industries where jobs are expected to contract include retail, agriculture, finance and real estate. Star-Advertiser.

Mokulele resumes interisland flights between Kona and Kahului. You can now make reservations for the newest available interisland flight connecting Hawaiʻi Island and Maui. Mokulele Airlines plans to start the flights linking Kona and Kahului on Oct. 1.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

HPD officers in schools program expands reach on Oʻahu.  Pilot program that puts retired officers on Oʻahu school campuses is expanding on the island's west side, adding Nānākuli High and Intermediate School to the mix. Hawaii Public Radio.

JERA says LNG can save Hawaii money, critics unconvinced. Japanese energy giant JERA invited the public to open house events to learn more about their proposed liquefied natural gas project that some said could lower Hawaii’s electric bills. KHON2.

Dee Lite Bakery demolition begins to make way for affordable housing. Once complete, the redevelopment will become new housing, with the goal of allowing Honolulu residents to live near jobs, services and public transit. KHON2.

East Oahu voters left in limbo as Waters awaits hearing on appeal. The confusion surrounding the District 4 contest continued Monday as Council Chair Tommy Waters awaits a hearing date with the state Intermediate Court of Appeals on his challenge of Circuit Court Judge James H. Ashford’s July 27 ruling that he is ineligible to seek a third consecutive term. Star-Advertiser.

We Reported On A Dangerous Crosswalk. State DOT Fixed It. The previous signal timing put turning vehicles on a potential collision path with pedestrians at a busy Honolulu intersection. State engineers took action. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

District 2 incumbent for Hawai‘i County Council faces 4 challengers. Jennifer "Jenn" Kagiwada is seeking re-election for a third two-year term, but she has competition from Blaine Bautista, JoNelle Fukushima, Wendy Botelho and William Halversen. Big Island Now.

After 3 years, Hilo school reopens amid ongoing $25M upgrade. The site now includes three new buildings, doubling its previous facility size and adding a new cafeteria, library, computer lab, classrooms, common areas and storage space. The entire school, which opened in 1888, was also outfitted with air conditioning and accessibility features. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now. 

Big Island groups receive $625,000 for wildfire mitigation. Just days after a fire scorched 680 acres in South Kohala, three Hawaii Island organizations were recently awarded $625,000 to support mitigation efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Longshot Congressional Candidate Arrested After Maui Beach Altercation. Kirill Basin was charged with two counts of terroristic threatening following an incident at Keawakapu Beach. Bail was set at $1 million. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. 

Maui County’s rapid growth strains its human resources system, slowing hiring, Council committee told. In just six years, Maui County’s budget has nearly doubled. Five new departments have been added, and the county absorbed the aftermath of the 2023 Lahaina wildfires — all while the administrative rules governing hiring and personnel matters have not been updated since December 2002, county officials told a Maui County Council committee Thursday. Maui Now.

Maui Council panel reviews non-binding agreement for ML&P’s Honokōhau ditch system, other West Maui water assets. Maui County could more than double public control of West Maui’s drinking water under a proposed deal with Maui Land & Pineapple Co., but County Council members on Wednesday pushed back on provisions in a memorandum of understanding that would combine the water purchase with zoning changes for housing on land the company wants to keep for development. Maui Now.

Kauai

Not So Public: Kaua‘i Council’s Testimony Policy Leaves Public In The Dark. It’s the only county council in the state that forces citizens to file records requests to access written public testimony. Civil Beat.

Wildfire is top concern in Kauaʻi’s latest hazard mitigation plan. About 75% of Kauaʻi’s population lives in medium and high hazard fire zones, and more than $13 billion worth of property and assets across the county are at risk of burning down. Hawaii Public Radio.

Top state officials plead not guilty in bribery scandal, bus systems reeling from fuel hikes, 26th homeless village opened on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Bribery Scandal: Luke and others plead not guilty. Green again calls on lieutenant governor to resign. Gov. Josh Green on Thursday called for Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke to resign to “focus on this matter with her family” after she and three others pleaded not guilty to orchestrating a bribery conspiracy to secure state money to pay for COVID-19 testing contracts during the pandemic. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio. KITV4.

Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Demand Special Session Following Bribery Indictments. The legislation would close a government contractor political contribution loophole. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green responds as Luke and other defendants plead not guilty to bribery charges. Green spoke to us for the first time since last Friday, when Luke and four others were indicted on conspiracy and bribery charges. KHON2.

OHA at-large races draw crowded primary field. Four incumbents are seeking another term on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees in the Aug. 8 primary election, with the crowded at-large race featuring 15 candidates competing for three seats. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Is Looking For A New CEO Amid Legal Battle. The search comes as the office fights a lawsuit from its current chief executive. Civil Beat.

Federal Government Abruptly Cut These Hawaiʻi Markets From Food Stamps Program. USDA moves leave customers who use SNAP with less access to food, and mean that stores can’t buy as much product from the local farmers who supply them. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi's public bus systems are feeling the strain of high fuel costs. Fuel costs started to level off this summer, but recent military strikes in the strait have pushed oil prices up again. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority stresses community input, responsible tourism. The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority released its most recent strategic plan for 2026-2030, stressing the importance of community input, responsible tourism and visitor spending. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Hawaii’s 26th tiny-home kauhale blessed. A seven-member resident council of formerly homeless people living in Hawaii’s 26th kauhale, or tiny-­home community, will select the next 45 or so people to move into the newly completed second phase of the Hookahi Leo kauhale, which was blessed Thursday in the shadow of the H-1 viaduct, tucked away off Middle Street in Kalihi. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Fasi Municipal building faces ongoing elevator problems as City plans modernization. Employees at Honolulu’s Frank F. Fasi Municipal Building said recurring elevator problems have become a daily frustration, with some reporting long delays, missed meetings and concerns about safety. KHON2.

Arrests made and machines seized in illegal gambling bust in Honolulu. The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) busted an illegal gambling operation that was discovered on Kalauokalani Way in Honolulu on Wednesday evening. KITV4.

Standoff erupts at Union Plaza as fumigation plans spark eviction fears. Plans to fumigate a controversial condominium in downtown Honolulu Thursday morning ended with a standoff and renewed cries for help from residents. Tenants at Union Plaza said more than a dozen masked men told them they have to leave to make way for the maintenance. Hawaii News Now.


Hawaii Island

Hawai‘i Island police chief talks story with residents, introduces department’s strategic plan. It outlines six strategic goals and objectives of the department, which currently employs 503 sworn officers and 163 civilian employees, and serves a resident population of approximately 211,000 and nearly 2 million annual visitors. Big Island Now.

Puna, Ka‘u residents surveyed about energy priorities. Vibrant Hawaii surveys gathered input from 340 residents in Puna and 141 in Ka‘u about energy usage, energy concerns and energy-related changes they would like to see in their communities. Tribune-Herald.

Thai restaurant in Kona shut down by state due to ‘rodent infestation’. Baan Thai Family Cuisine in Kailua-Kona has been shut down by the state Department of Health due to a “rodent infestation and multiple critical food safety violations.” Tribune-Herald. KITV4.

Iconic Kauaʻi steakhouse Bull Shed expands to Hawaiʻi Island. The iconic Bull Shed Restaurant, beloved for over 50 years on Kauaʻi, has expanded to the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, offering its renowned steaks and seafood alongside new Hawaiʻi Island-inspired dishes. Kauai Now. Garden Island. 

Maui

Maui Council weighs $6 million purchase of two private West Maui water systems. Maui County is moving toward a $6 million purchase of two privately owned West Maui water systems, a deal county officials say would bring public utility control to areas long served by private companies, with final approval subject to Maui County Council and Public Utilities Commission approval and closing not expected until April 2027. Maui Now.

The Maui News to be sold to Maui Nui Media and Creativity Collaborative. The Maui News soon will welcome new ownership, as the Maui Nui Media and Creativity Collaborative has reached an agreement to purchase the publication and Maui Publishing Co. from The Ogden Newspapers Inc. Maui News.

FBI assisting investigation into alleged Maui hate crime. The FBI is working with the Maui Police Department to determine whether federal charges are warranted after a group of visitors from California alleged that a July 17 riot at the Kaanapali Alii vacation residences in Lahaina was racially motivated. Star-Advertiser.

Casting shade: Maui County breaks ground on new Lahaina playground. Maui County officials and members of the public gathered Thursday to celebrate the start of construction on the $2.4 million playground project, which Maui County Council Member Tamara Paltin described as "community-led and county-supported." Maui News.

Maui Now, journalist team earns four Hawaiʻi SPJ awards for excellence in journalism. Award recipients were recognized during a dinner held July 29 at the Japanese Cultural Center on Oʻahu.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi lawmakers revisit island's curbside recycling program. The Kauaʻi County Council wants a curbside recycling program on the island to divert waste from its single landfill. Hawaii Public Radio.

Nonprofits can apply for bus passes to help Kaua‘i residents. The County of Kauaʻi Transportation Agency will be accepting applications from Kauaʻi-based nonprofit organizations for its Kauaʻi Bus Pass Outreach Program starting Aug. 3. Kauai Now.

93rd CST joins Kauai first responders in tabletop scenario. The Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Pride of America” berthed at its usual Nawiliwili Harbor pier on Thursday to a greeting not of hula girls, musicians and lei, but by the next-level emergency vehicles like the Kauai Police Department’s armored rescue vehicle, the Kauai Fire Department’s hazmat truck, and an assortment of state Harbors Division vehicles. Garden Island.

BREAKING: 4 state officials, lobbyist, indicted in bribery scandal

Bribery Charges: Sylvia Luke, Ex-State Rep And Others Indicted In Corruption Case. An Oahu grand jury today indicted Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and four others as part of the state Attorney General’s months-long political corruption probe. After hearing evidence for most of the day, the grand jury this afternoon indicted Luke for criminal conspiracy to commit bribery, bribery and falsifying candidate committee reports. Also indicted were Former state Rep. Ryan Yamane, who is also the former director of the Department of Human Services, for conspiracy to commit bribery and bribery, Ford Fuchigami, deputy director for the Airports Division at state Department of Transportation, for conspiracy to commit bribery, bribery, use of false statement, and obstruction of justice, Leo Asuncion Jr, a former Luke campaign volunteer and Public Utilities Commission chair, for falsifying candidate committee reports, use of false statement, and obstruction of justice and obbyist and businessman Tobi Solidum for four counts of conspiracy to commit bribery and three counts of bribery. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mauna Kea access fight moves to the courts, Honolulu police sent home, Lt. Gov. visits camp, Thirty Meter Telescope backers speak out, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea roadblock/checkpoint ©2019 All Hawaii News

Judges challenge both sides in dispute over Mauna Kea emergency declaration. The Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation and state attorney general faced off Monday over whether the governor’s emergency declaration for Mauna Kea was an overreaction that is illegally blocking those who want to practice traditional worship on the mountain. Hawaii News Now.

Judges Ponder Whether To Halt Ige’s Mauna Kea Emergency Proclamation. A ruling is expected Tuesday after a hearing into whether the order violates the rights of a Native Hawaiian cultural practitione. Civil Beat.

Court hears challenge to emergency proclamation. A state judge says he hopes to have, by the end of today, a decision on a Big Island kumu hula’s challenge to Gov. David Ige’s emergency proclamation restricting public access to Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

Court weighs suspending Mauna Kea emergency proclamation; Honolulu police recalled to Oahu. Dozens of Honolulu police officers are heading back to Oahu after a week among the law enforcement ranks keeping an eye on demonstrators at Mauna Kea. The department faces questions about how they got deployed and who is paying the bills. KHON2.

Judges hear arguments on lawsuit against Ige's emergency proclamation. The Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation is suing Governor David Ige. KITV.

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Lt. Gov. Josh Green Visits Mauna Kea Kupuna. Three days after Governor David Ige was on Hawaii Island but opted not to visit the Mauna Kea encampment, Lt. Gov. Green makes the trip. Big Island Video News.

Lieutenant Governor Visits Mauna Kea Protesters. State officials estimated the crowd on Monday stood at 1,500 people at the site of the protest against the planned Thirty Meter Telescope. There were no arrests. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green visited Mauna Kea Monday morning. He explains, that he is not on Hawaii Island to make a political stance but to make sure the health and safety of the kiai are okay. KHON2.

Green says issue has become more than just TMT, will speak with Ige to de-escalate confrontation. After meeting with protesters Monday at the Maunakea Access Road, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said he would advise Gov. David Ige to de-escalate the confrontation on the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

After visiting protest at Mauna Kea, LG says TMT should ‘move on’ if brokered deal can’t be found. After a lengthy visit Monday with TMT protesters blocking access to Mauna Kea’s summit, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said the controversial telescope project might have to “move on” if an agreement with its opponents can’t be reached. Hawaii News Now.

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Can The Thirty Meter Telescope Survive Growing Opposition? Gov. David Ige’s cabinet members spent most of Monday in meetings to discuss the future of the project planned for Mauna Kea. Civil Beat.

Day 8: State Stands By Assertions of Drug, Alcohol Use on Mauna Kea. Big Island Now.

Support for protesters stretches across the islands. Protesters who want to halt construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope continue to gain momentum for their cause, with statements Monday from public officials, shows of support from around the country and a nod from Hawaii businesses shutting their doors in solidarity. Star-Advertiser.

Pressure grows on backers of TMT. As the protest over the Thirty Meter Telescope rages on, an increasing number of activists are targeting the largest funder of the next- generation telescope, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation of Palo Alto, California. Star-Advertiser.

TMT says telescope will not be built near historical burial on Mauna Kea. As tensions continue over the construction of TMT, the International Observatory affirms it will not be on or near historical features. KITV.

TMT spokesperson says Mauna Kea remains as 'preferred site' for telescope. A TMT spokesperson says they remain hopeful both sides can move forward 'with mutual respect.' KITV.

Native Hawaiian TMT supporter feels the time is now to speak up. As protests statewide continue, supporters of TMT are speaking up for the project, while officials say they’re trying to get a handle on misinformation. Those who favor the project have long said they are in the “silent majority”. Hawaii News Now.

Amid mass protests, TMT supporter says telescope is being done ‘the right way’. As hundreds of opponents gather at Mauna Kea, supporters of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) are waiting for it to be built. Hawaii News Now.

DHHL not receiving compensation for housing TMT equipment. Bulldozers were loaded on lowboy trailers in order for TMT construction to continue. KITV.

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Hawaii students’ data may have been exposed through college planning website. Data on Hawaii public school students, including names, birth dates and addresses, that was maintained by a private vendor on a career planning portal may have been exposed to unauthorized users, officials announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Personal information for 70,000 Hawaii students potentially compromised. Personal information for as many as 70,000 public school students may have been compromised after a University of Hawaii vendor charged with overseeing a college and career planning website detected “suspicious” unauthorized access to one of its servers. Hawaii News Now.

Up to 70,000 student records potentially exposed. Graduation Alliance, a vendor contracted by the University of Hawaii for Hawaii P-20 Partnerships of Education, reported the potential exposure, UH announced Monday. Tribune-Herald.

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Unsafe water was found last year at 41% of Hawaii beaches. A new water pollution report, “Safe for Swimming? Water Quality at Our Beaches,” scheduled for release today by the national nonprofit Environment America Research & Policy Center, says an estimated 57 million people get sick from recreational waterborne illnesses each year. According to the Environment America report, 90 of 218 beach sites sampled in Hawaii, or 41%, were potentially unsafe for swimming for at least one day in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection announces settlement with Equifax regarding 2017 data breach. KHON2.

Hawaii to receive $1 million from Equifax over massive data breach. The state of Hawaii will receive one million dollars as the result of a large, multi-state settlement with Equifax Inc., one of the largest consumer reporting agencies in the world, regarding a major data breach in 2017. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gets $1 Million In Equifax Data Breach Settlement. The credit reporting agency will also pay other states as it pledges to strengthen its security program. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Caldwell signs a bill to lease dedicated city parking spaces to car-share firms. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Monday signed a bill dedicating up to 80 on-street and 80 off-street parking stalls for lease to car-share companies. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor signs bill reserving public parking stalls for car-sharing vehicles. Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed a bill that would reserve some public parking stalls for car-sharing vehicles only. KHON2.

Honolulu Officials Are Trying to Fix Problems With Bulky Item Pickup Program. The city Department of Environmental Services is fine-tuning its bulky item pickup pilot program following complaints islandwide that mounds of trash have been collecting on the streets. Hawaii Public Radio.

City To Spend $1 Million On Koko Crater Stairs. The money will be used mostly for planning long-term repairs, but at least $100,000 will pay for immediate work. Civil Beat.

HART Has A New Board Member: Ford Fuchigami. Fuchigami previously served on the local board overseeing rail when he was the state’s DOT director. Civil Beat.

Community meeting seeks public input on Lake Wilson. The public is invited to a community meeting to discuss future plans for the Wahiawa Freshwater State Recreation Area, including Lake Wilson. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

TMT construction moratorium on Wednesday council agenda. The County Council on Wednesday is scheduled to decide whether to hear a last-minute resolution supporting a 60-day moratorium on Thirty Meter Telescope construction on Maunakea. West Hawaii Today.

Tourism businesses take stand. A West Hawaii business canceled its luau show Monday after organizers of the demonstration on Maunakea called on the visitor industry to suspend operations to show support for the protectors. West Hawaii Today.

Land Board To Vote On Puueo Cemetery Damage Fine. The BLNR will consider a settlement of enforcement action against the Edwin C. Olson Trust No.2 for damage that occurred during land altering activities without a permit in 2016. Big Island Video News.

Councilwoman to introduce resolution urging cooperation on Puna boat ramp. Puna Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz said Monday she plans to introduce this week a resolution urging the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation to form a working group with the county, community members and fishing community to plan and develop a boat ramp for Puna. Tribune-Herald.

County Council To Weigh In On New Puna Boat Ramp. The County Council will consider Resolution 218-19 during its full meeting at the West Hawaii Civic Center on Wednesday, July 24. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Standing for Mauna Kea on Maui. Maui residents line Hana Highway in protest of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Sunday morning. The demonstration stretched for about a mile from the intersection of Haleakala and Hana highways to just before Hookele Street. Maui News.

Tourism Related Businesses Taking “Peaceful Stand” for Maunakea. The Old Lahaina Luaau in West Maui will suspend its luaau experience today as a “peaceful stand” in support of employees who support the protection of Maunakea. Maui Now.

Early designs unveiled for Kahului transit hub. Project in process of getting its permit. Maui News.

Lawsuit Challenges Hawaii’s Termination Of Youth Mental Health Services At 18. The suit filed in federal court alleges a young woman received minimal care when her case was turned over to Hawaii’s adult mental health division, leading to the deterioration of her condition. Civil Beat.

Parents of a Maui woman with a mental illness file suit against the state. A lawsuit by the parents of a severely mentally ill Maui girl alleges that the state improperly terminated her mental health services two years ago. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Councilmembers call for Ige to reverse Mauna Kea proclamation. Two members of the Kauai County Council have joined a growing list of elected officials from across the state, urging Gov. David Ige to rescind an emergency declaration he issued last week giving law enforcement more power to remove Native Hawaiian rights activists protesting the construction of a giant telescope on Mauna Kea. Garden Island.

Cable blamed for outage. Islandwide power outages that started Sunday afternoon were caused by a frayed cable in the main generator at a Kauai Island Utility Cooperative facility. Garden Island.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative said a cable failure at the largest unit in KIUC’s generation fleet caused Sunday’s islandwide power outage. Hawaii News Now.

Lights out? No big deal. Sunday’s islandwide power outage had little impact on most businesses. Garden Island.

$67M federal disaster aid coming, Hawaii joins Big Pharma lawsuit, jury selection begins in Kealoha trial, CO2 levels hit record, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava overtakes houses in this May 7, 2018 aerial PC: Mick Kalber

Hawaii is set to receive about $67 million in new federal disaster relief to help the state recover from torrential rainfall that caused severe flooding on parts of Kauai and Oahu in April 2018, Tropical Storm Lane and the eruption of Kilauea on Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

State to receive $67 million in federal disaster relief funding. The grant, totaling $66.9 million, was awarded in part because of efforts of U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, who said “the vast majority” of the grant will be awarded to Hawaii County in an effort to aid recovery following the various disasters that struck the island last year. Tribune-Herald.

2018 Storms, Lava Cost More Than Half A Billion Dollars. The latest $67 million in federal disaster recovery aid was announced Monday. Civil Beat.

$67 Million In Federal Funding On The Way For Hawaii Disasters. The new funding reportedly brings total federal disaster relief funding for Hawai‘i to more than $429 million. Big Island Video News.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Monday that Hawaii will receive $66.9 million in new federal disaster relief funding. Garden Island.

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CO2 levels measured in Hawaii hit milestone not seen in human history. Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere -- measured at a facility atop Mauna Loa -- hit an alarming new daily baseline above 415 parts per million Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii joins states suing drug companies. Attorney General Clare E. Connors joined 42 states and Puerto Rico, led by Connecticut Attorney General William Tong in announcing a lawsuit against Teva Pharmaceuticals and 19 of the nation's largest generic drug manufacturers alleging a broad conspiracy to artificially inflate and manipulate prices, reduce competition and unreasonably restrain trade for over 100 different generic drugs. KITV.

Hawaii Delegation To Look For Affordable Housing Solutions In Singapore. State Sen. Stanley Chang will lead a group of about 40 people to learn more about the city-state’s approach. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii proposes tuition freeze for undergrads, cut for graduate students. University of Hawaii President David Lassner wants to freeze undergraduate tuition at all 10 campuses for three years and reduce graduate tuition at UH-Manoa, to attract more students and keep college affordable. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii proposes tuition changes for next year. UH is looking to stop undergraduate tuition from increasing and cut tuition for graduate students at Manoa starting in Fall 2020. KHON2.

In Hawaii 4 of the top 6 jobs in demand are in the medical field. While managers and operations managers are among the top five most in demand jobs in Hawaii, four of the top six are in the medical field and three of them are in nursing. KITV.

Gov. Ige’s aide Ford Fuchigami to return to Hawaii transportation department in civil service job. Ford Fuchigami, who has served as a principal advisor to Gov. David Ige since November 2017, is returning to the state Department of Transportation to take a civil service job. Star-Advertiser.

USPS to honor USS Missouri with new Forever stamp. The U.S. Postal Service will issue a stamp honoring the famous World War II battleship the USS Missouri that was the site of Japan’s unconditional surrender on Sept. 2, 1945, in Tokyo Bay. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Potential Kealoha jurors gather at Blaisdell. Some 413 potential jurors filled the Neal S. Blaisdell Center’s Pikake Room Monday in an extraordinary federal court proceeding to select jurors in the corruption trial for former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, his ex-deputy prosecutor wife Katherine and three current and former Honolulu Police Department officers. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds Of Potential Jurors Screened On Opening Day Of Kealoha Trial. The prosecution and defense will now work to narrow the list of potential jurors to 12, which could take up to 10 days. Civil Beat.

Jury Selection Has Begun In High Profile Corruption Case. Associated Press.

With jury selection for Kealoha trial underway, attorneys now look to get an advantage. Jury selection for the Kealoha trial got underway Monday at the Blaisdell Center with more than 400 potential jurors. KHON2.

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Contractor gets prison term for bribery. The president of Honolulu civil engineering company Lyon Associates Inc. and former Honolulu Zoning Board of Appeals member Frank James Lyon is going to federal prison for paying bribes for government contracts. Star-Advertiser.

Kunia veterans blame possible exposure to toxic pesticides for mystery illnesses. A group of more than 100 Kunia veterans are suffering from neurological issues, cancer, birth defects and other illnesses after they say they were exposed to toxic pesticides. Hawaii News Now.

Board Restates Support For Beach Park Redevelopment In Face Of Opposition. Hundreds attend a neighborhood board meeting where many wanted to stop a project to build ball fields at Waimanalo Bay Beach Park. Civil Beat.

Waimanalo residents are deeply divided over a park development in the works. After about a decade of planning, city leaders are now trying to convince families in Waimanalo to accept $32 million dollar park project. Hawaii News Now.

Midrise affordable rentals opening in Kakaako. The developer of the largely state-financed $53 million Hale Kewalo project reserved for low-income households hosted a blessing ceremony Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

'What heroes represent'; Kaliloa, other Big Island officers who gave their lives in line of duty honored. The Hawaii Police Department’s annual National Police Week ceremony, always solemn and poignant, was especially so Monday.  Tribune-Herald.

Police Week Ceremony Held In Hilo, Officer Kaliloa Added To Memorial Wall. The name of fallen Officer Bronson Kaliloa, killed last year in the line of duty, has been added to the memorial wall, Ka Malu Aloha. Big Island Video News.

Community veterans center clears environmental hurdle. The West Hawaii Veterans Council remains on a mission to build the West Hawaii Community Veterans Center, even though state grant-in-aid funding did not come through this legislative session. West Hawaii Today.

Alii Drive culvert replacement project nearing start. Officials have slated a community meeting to prepare the public for the upcoming replacement of a deteriorating culvert on Alii Drive, a project that’s likely to snarl traffic on the main thoroughfare for months. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County ending abandoned vehicle auctions. Officials say last year, the auctions were getting more expensive than the revenue generated. KHON2.

Maui nonprofit organizations secured $4.5 million in Capital Improvement Project Grant-in-Aid funds.These CIP grants are provided to local organizations serving the public and working to improve the state of Hawaii, and are awarded for the purpose of construction projects or the acquisition of fixed assets such as land or buildings. Maui Now.

Kauai

Balancing access and safety. Nobody has been cited for trespassing at Queen’s Bath since the fence and gate went up across the trailhead in September 2018. Garden Island.

Kauai’s legislators will take a look back at the 2019 session at the Lihue Business Association meeting on May 30 at Duke’s Canoe Club, Kalapaki. Garden Island.

Sine die for Hawaii Legislature, Ige's top aide Fuchigami resigns, schoolteachers average $57,866, Kilauea anniversary marked, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii House members sing 'Hawaii Aloha' at session end PC:Hawaii House Majority

Hawaii legislative session ends on a divisive note. The state Legislature on Thursday adjourned for the year without its traditional display of unity, when House and Senate members clasp hands and sing “Hawaii Aloha.” Star-Advertiser.

Senate Closes The 2019 Session With Some Sharp Divisions. The state House adjourned while highlighting its successes. The Senate, meanwhile, is left reflecting on its compromises and splits. Civil Beat.

Legislature Adjourns, Attention Shifts To Governor's Intent On Key Bills. Hawaii lawmakers wrapped up their 2019 legislative session Thursday with an olive branch extended to Gov. David Ige. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fate of bills now in governor’s hands as legislative session comes to a close. The 2019 legislature came to a close Thursday, and proposals that made it through the House and Senate now have one more hurdle before becoming law: Gov. David Ige. Hawaii News Now.

The 2019 Legislative session has officially ended. "Today I'm just going to be honest, this has been incredibly difficult," Senate President Ron Kouchi said.  A difficult session that ignited results, all the way to the very end. KITV.

Lawmakers wrap up 2019 legislative session. State lawmakers wrapped up their 2019 legislative session Thursday after several months of work at the state Capitol debating and passing bills, including measures reducing penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana and establishing all-mail elections. Associated Press.

Despite Legislative Setbacks, Ige Sees ‘Progress’ For His Agenda. In the 2019 session many administration bills died, programs got less funding than sought and nominees faced tough grilling. Civil Beat.

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Ford Fuchigami leaving post as Gov. David Ige’s administrative director. It’s not clear why Fuchigami is stepping down. Star-Advertiser.

Ford Fuchigami To Leave Ige Administration. The top aide to the Hawaii governor will step down at the end of May. Civil Beat.

Vacation Rental Bill: Where Lawmakers Live Determined How They Voted. Legislators from beachfront communities largely opposed the vacation rental bill, while support came from lawmakers who haven’t seen a proliferation of the properties. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s average public school teacher salary in 2017-18 was $57,866, a 2% increase from the year before that ranks its pay 18th highest among the states, but falls below the U.S. average, according to a new analysis released by the National Education Association. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Executive Conference announced a partnership with Landed, a down payment assistance and homebuyer education program aimed at helping teachers and school employees afford to buy homes, to bring new homeownership options to K-12 educators across the state. Maui Now.

State Lawmakers Asking FAA To Take Action On Tour Helicopter Operations In State. State lawmakers are asking federal officials to either ground all tour helicopters in the islands or ban flights over residential neighborhoods. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Army manager got antique car, other bribes in exchange for contracting info. A former Schofield Barracks range operations manager pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiring to accept bribes in exchange for disclosing sensitive Army procurement details. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu mayor signs high-rise fire safety bill. A measure making it easier for owners of older high-rise condominiums to meet stricter fire safety regulations was signed into law Thursday by Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell signs Bill 96 relating to fire safety into law. Bill 96 gives condominium associations the power to decide whether or not to retrofit high-rises with sprinklers or complete a life safety evaluation. KITV.

Final State Audit On Rail Finds Overpayments To Contractors, Billing Issues. The audit relied on a small sample of invoices so it’s not clear whether those billing problems within HART extend to other rail contracts, the state auditor said. Civil Beat.

Union announces layoffs imminent at The Modern Honolulu hotel. Diamond Resorts has notified 78 workers at The Modern Honolulu that their positions are to be eliminated in the next 30 days, according to Unite Here Local 5, the labor union representing the workers. Star-Advertiser.

There have been 21 dog attacks at this Kakaako park in the last 3 years. State taxpayers could end up paying big after another dog attack near a Kakaako homeless camp. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kilauea, One Year Later: Volcanic Hazards Remain A Threat. This Friday makes a year since Kilauea erupted, sending lava into residential communities on Hawaii Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

USGS

KILAUEA ERUPTION — ONE YEAR LATER: Displaced farmers face 'a long road ahead'. Tribune-Herald.

ONE YEAR AGO: Volcano Watch Details Eruption Start. Hawaii Public Radio.

One year anniversary - Kilauea: Reshaping the Aina. KHON2.

KILAUEA ERUPTION — ONE YEAR LATER: Midwife, husband vow to return to Leilani despite losing homes in two eruptions. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County residents continue to file for building permits in riskiest zones. Since the eruption subsided in August, county officials say, 127 people have pulled permits to build or rebuild in Lava Zone 1, which includes areas experiencing recent flows. Star-Advertiser.

Man who fell into Kilauea caldera in stable condition. A 32-year-old man airlifted to Hilo Medical Center on Wednesday evening after falling into the Kilauea caldera is a solider stationed at Pohakuloa Training Area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Pools of Oheo in Haleakala National Park’s Kipahulu District have reopened after issues with the stream monitoring system caused a closure three weeks ago. Maui News.

Community looks to crack down on illegal fireworks; meeting held Wednesday. Lack of evidence, authority make it tough to prosecute, search cargo. Maui News.

Maui staying vigilant in fight against rapid ohia death disease. Regular aerial surveys, sampling aim to keep island free of fungus deadly to tree. Maui News.

Kauai

‘Fruitful’ session, says Nakamura. State Rep. Nadine Nakamura said she thought it was an especially fruitful session for Kauai. Garden Island.


Robust reefs, fewer floods. Kauai’s coral reefs protect the island from about $11 million worth of damages every year, according to a new study released by the U.S. Geological Survey, The Nature Conservancy and the University of California Santa Cruz. Garden Island.

For the seventh time in history, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has declared glyphosate unlikely to cause cancer in humans. On Kauai, glyphosate has been found in roughly one third of tested beehives, according to a 2018 study, with concentrations as high as 179 parts per billion. Garden Island.