Green sounds alarm about RFK Jr. in Washington, Legislature mulls natural disaster resistance, biosecuirty; shortages plague health care, education, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green sounds alarm in Washington over RFK Jr. Even as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, returned to Capitol Hill on Wednesday to meet with top Senate committee leaders, Hawaii’s Democratic governor came to Capitol Hill to urge the Senate to reject his nomination. CQ-Roll Call. Fox News. CNN video via Instagram.

’Sobering’ report issued on Hawaii natural disaster resilience spending needs. A panel advising Gov. Josh Green is urging the state Legislature to appropriate almost $2 billion over the next five years to help reduce and respond to future natural disaster damage in Hawaii. Recommendations in the 58-page report by the Climate Advisory Team include helping homeowners strengthen their residences against hurricanes, enhancing natural protections from storm surges and inland flooding, expanding Firewise community programs, creating a permanent Hawai‘i Resilience Office and establishing a “properly funded” Office of the State Fire Marshal. Star-Advertiser.

Find the full 58-page Climate Advisory Team report here.

State Sees A Rare Surge In Inheritance Taxes. The state Council on Revenues, a committee tasked with projecting state tax collections, is projecting general fund tax collections will grow from about $9.57 billion last fiscal year to nearly $10.2 billion in the year that ends on June 30. Civil Beat.

State Department of Agriculture shares biosecurity budget wishlist. The new legislative session kicks off next week — but key budget briefings with lawmakers are in full swing. The state Department of Agriculture was called before the state Senate on Tuesday afternoon to discuss their budget. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii still facing health care work shortages, report says. The 2024 Hawaii Healthcare Workforce Initiative report, published every two years by the nonprofit trade group Healthcare Association of Hawaii, noted some easing of shortages for some categories, but found the state short of more than 4,600 health care workers in 94 professions. Star-Advertiser.

Education summit explores solutions to teacher shortage in Hawaii. Members of Hawaii’s education community came together to address the teacher shortage across the state. The summit addressed, in part, building a pipeline of teachers for the next generation, which includes strengthening support for high school students to become teachers. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

That Cop Pulling You Over May Soon Be A State Deputy Sheriff. Unlike other states, Hawaiʻi generally leaves it to the counties to almost exclusively enforce traffic laws. But now lawmakers are being asked to authorize a new traffic enforcement unit staffed with two dozen state deputy sheriffs to help patrol Oahu highways and enforce regulations on commercial vehicles. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

EPA Clean Ports Program contributes to Honolulu Harbor and climate change solutions. Hawaii is more dependent on goods being brought in by ship than any other state in America and Honolulu Harbor is getting a $59 million grant from the federal government. KITV4.

Maintenance cited as possible cause of Kamaka crash. The National Transportation Safety Board issued a preliminary investigation report that could provide clues as to what might have caused the Dec. 17 Kamaka Air Flight 689 crash that killed two young pilots shortly after takeoff on an instructional flight to Lanai. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

ATF sends team to Honolulu to help investigate fatal McCully fire. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is sending dozens to assist with the investigation into an apartment fire on Young Street that killed Honolulu firefighter Jeffrey Fiala on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Miske Case: 2 More Co-Defendants Sentenced. The cases against Michael Miske’s co-defendants continue more than a month after the convicted crime boss was found dead in his cell. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawai‘i County Council unanimously supports Mayor Alameda’s chosen cabinet leaders. On Tuesday, during Hawai‘i County Council’s Governmental Operations and External Affairs Committee, Alameda sought confirmation of nine of his selected department heads.These mayoral appointees received unanimous support from the council committee members but they must go before the full council for final approval on Jan. 22 in Kona. Big Island Now.

Family of man killed by dogs says petty misdemeanor charges are ‘insufficient’. The ex-wife and a daughter of a 71-year-old Ocean View man fatally mauled by dogs 17 months ago said authorities aren’t doing enough to hold the owners of the dogs responsible for the attack. Tribune-Herald.

Roundabout plan advances: Final EA issued for Waikoloa Village road project. The Department of Public Works published on Wednesday a final environmental assessment for a project to build a two-lane roundabout at the intersection of Waikoloa Road, Paniolo Avenue and Pua Melia Street. Tribune-Herald.

Industrial fire affects county metal recycling. The acceptance of metals and appliances at East Hawaii transfer stations has been put on hold because of a fire Wednesday morning at Big Island Scrap Metal, Hawaii County’s contracted recycling partner. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

 Draft study completed for mauka move of vulnerable portion of Honoapi‘ilani Highway. About a 6-mile segment of Honoapi‘ilani Highway from Ukumehame to Launiupoko would be moved mauka, beyond the reach of rising sea levels, to protect a vital roadway to West Maui. Maui Now.

Baldwin Beach restoration work continues. The effort is funded from a more than $1 million grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s National Coastal Resilience Fund to develop site-specific plans for dune restoration at Kapukaulua, from Lower Pāʻia Park to Wawau Point, or Baby Beach. Maui News.

New program allows Moloka‘i residents to scrap two cars per year. A new tow and scrap program for Molokaʻi residents to recycle their unwanted qualified vehicles at no cost. Maui News.

Kauai

57 households face relocation as Hawaiian Home Lands nears purchase of Kaua‘i condos. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is preparing to acquire an East Side apartment complex on Kauaʻi in early February, which has led 57 households to confront a daunting future: Where will they relocate? Kauai Now.

Slope stabilization to close one lane of Kūhiō Highway at the Waikoko turn for 7 months. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation notifies highway users about a single lane closure of Kūhiō Highway (Route 560) at the Waikoko hairpin turn for emergency slope stabilization. Kauai Now.

Green to lobby against RFK Jr. confirmation, teens no longer need parents' permission for sexually transmitted disease treatment, Blangiardi inaugurated to second term, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Gov. Green to lobby in D.C. against RFK Jr. nomination. Gov. Josh Green, a medical doctor, plans to spend much of next week in Washington, D.C., trying to dissuade U.S. senators from confirming Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the federal Department of Health and Human Services. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Will Tragedy Change How Hawaiʻi Polices Illegal Fireworks? A task force created to find and stop shipments has seized more than 100 tons of explosives — but no criminal charges have followed. Now, lawmakers returning to this month face extra pressure to put a lid on the aerial displays in the wake of a New Year’s Eve explosion at a Salt Lake home that left three people dead and seriously injured more than 20. Civil Beat. Associated Press.  KITV4.

Hawaii teens have increased ability to protect themselves from STIs in 2025. With further options in place, a new law in effect this year, authorizes minors as young as 14 years old to consent to medical care and services, plus prevention of sexually transmitted infections. KITV4.

Nurses strikes loom due to nurse-to-patient ratios. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association announced enough votes over the New Year’s holiday to authorize strikes among union nurses — first at The Queen’s Health System and its two campuses in downtown Honolulu and in West Oahu, then at Wilcox Medical Center on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii saw 16 travel-related dengue cases in 2024. The Hawaii Department of Health says the year 2024 ended with a total of 16 travel-related dengue cases in the state. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Oahu

Mayor Rick Blangiardi sworn in for second term. The City and County of Honolulu’s 15th mayor formally started his second term Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Honolulu City Council elects Councilmember Matt Weyer to be Vice Chair. Weyer was first elected to the council in 2023, representing Waikele, Kunia, Wahiawa and the entire North Shore to Kahaluʻu. KHON2.

New rules for Honolulu community gardens almost set. The city has about 1,238 garden plots at 11 sites on Oʻahu, and they’re open for residents who want to flex their green thumbs. But the waitlist currently has over 300 people, with some waiting up to three years for a spot. Hawaii Public Radio.

US military plane to fly six fireworks blast patients to continent. Six adult patients will be transported on a U.S. military plane to the continent on Saturday for highly specialized care at hospitals.  Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County driver safety coordinator charged with DUI after crash. Steven Hoolahui Kalilikane Jr., 43, a Hawaii County employee whose title is “safety and driver improvement coordinator” for the Department of Environmental Management’s Solid Waste Division was arrested in the early morning of Dec. 21 after allegedly crashing a vehicle into a utility pole in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

The Hilo airport runway will be closed nightly for lighting replacement beginning Monday. The work will require the closure of runway 8-26 from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. nightly for a minimum of 128 calendar days. During the closure the alternate runway, 3-21, will be used for aircraft operations. Big Island Now.

Maui

Lawsuit threatens Kaanapali ocean permits. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking reconsideration of a recent 2nd Circuit Court order that enjoins the issuance and renewals of all commercial use permits in Kaanapali ocean waters — an action that could cause the closure of some 30 Kaanapali businesses leading to direct and indirect job losses for more than 200 Maui residents. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless for the holidays: State sees 87% increases in homelessness as many residents have to fight to stay afloat. Desiree Mendez said that for the past nine months, she’s been without shelter, living on the beach after her vehicle broke down and facing one challenge after the next.  Maui News.

Kauai

Update: Wilcox Medical Center nurses have 30 days to decide following strike authorization. The Hawai‘i Nurses Association and Wilcox Medical Center nurses will meet in the coming days to discuss next steps, after nurses’ voting period to authorize a strike closed Wednesday night. Kauai Now.

Green releases proposed budget, state deportation cases reach 25-year high, West Hawaii fishing ban extended, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green's proposed budget includes likely raises, covers tax cuts. Gov. Josh Green has unveiled his proposed state budget for the next two fiscal years, which accounts for record tax cuts for residents that begin in January, the state’s $800 million share of a proposed $4.037 billion settlement to settle lawsuits in the aftermath of the 2023 Maui wildfires and includes likely raises for unionized workers. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.   Civil Beat.

Read the full budget here. Hawaii Department of Budget and Finance.

Hawaiʻi Deportation Cases Hit Quarter-Century High. The backlog of cases in U.S. immigration courts has tripled since 2017 and is at record levels in Hawaiʻi. Most involve immigrants from China. Civil Beat.

Gabbard shows ‘momentum’ on Capitol Hill. Despite mostly partisan concern over an apparent closeness to ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad and what critics say is a tendency to repeat Kremlin propaganda, it seems former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has found a warm reception on Capitol Hill. Boston Herald.

Hawaiʻi Hemp Growers Say New State Rules Will Put Them Out Of Business. Gov. Josh Green’s approval of new regulations for CBD products, touted as a win for locally grown hemp, actually represents a major setback for the industry, local hemp farmers and CBD processors say.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

‘I have never been this angry’: Lawmakers to fight proposed landfill site in Central Oahu. (video only.) Hawaii News Now.

ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi education in the spotlight amid 'dead language' comment at council meeting. A testifier who called ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi a "dead language" at a recent Honolulu City Council meeting was met with rebuke from Hawaiian council members. ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and English are the official languages of the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Land board extends fishing ban for Achilles tang in West Hawaiʻi. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has extended a temporary fishing ban for the pākuʻikuʻi, also known as the Achilles tang, until the end of 2026. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald.

Despite the closure of the Kīlauea Visitor Center early next year, visitors will still have access to the store and park services. The construction and expansion project will close the entirety of the visitor center, including the restrooms, lānai and most of the parking beginning Feb. 17.  Big Island Now.

Puna Geothermal to host year-end community meeting this week. Puna Geothermal Venture in Puna hosts its year-end quarterly community meeting at 4 p.m. Thursday at at Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility, located at 15-2906 Pāhoa Village Road, in Pāhoa. Big Island Now.

Treasured Hawaii Island tsunami museum faces closure amid financial struggles. A museum in Hilo that aims to educate the public on the devastating impact of tsunamis could have to close its doors for good. Hawaii News Now.

Kawamoto Swim Stadium Reopens After Two-Month Closure. The Hawaiʻi County Charles “Sparky” Kawamoto Swim Stadium reopened on Saturday, December 14th, following the completion of repairs. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Revocable permit granted, with amendments, for use of East Maui stream water. The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5-0 Friday evening to issue a revocable permit to Alexander & Baldwin and subsidiary East Maui Irrigation Co. for the use of East Maui stream water, much of it for Upcountry drinking water and for nearly 10,600 acres of Mahi Pono farm lands. Maui Now.

Lahaina debris disposal site, landfill expansion gets approval. The county announced last month that it had reached conditional agreements with a subsidiary of Nan Inc., Hawaii’s largest, locally owned construction company, to purchase approximately 49 acres of previously quarried land and 30 acres of land currently being quarried adjacent to the Central Maui Landfill. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Report calls for inclusive recovery for Filipino survivors of Lahaina fire. A comprehensive report by Maui grassroots organization Tagnawa and the Hawai‘i Workers Center highlights the deep disparities, resilience and urgent needs of Filipino survivors of the Aug. 8, 2023, Lahaina fires. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

County building closed for installations. The Department of Public Works Buildings Division announced that its services and doors will be closed for a week so that its staff can return to the offices located at the Moikeha Building, Suite 175. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Earthjustice lawsuits seek seabird protection from lights, Hawaii County inaugurates new mayor, Hawaii Marines get first 'ship-killing' missile system in U.S., more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lawsuits Seek To Protect Hawaiian Seabirds From Too-Bright Streetlights. Earthjustice adds another claim to a 30-year pile of lawsuits against power companies, resorts and local governments on Maui and Kauai. Civil Beat.

More biosecurity measures could come in upcoming Legislative session. At last month’s Hawaiʻi Agriculture Conference, Rep. Kristin Kahaloa, who was the vice chair for the House Committee on Agriculture and Food Systems, said she and other lawmakers will look to build on a law allocating $20 million in state funding for biosecurity efforts in that Gov. Josh Green later cut to $10 million. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor calls Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s health secretary nomination ‘unsafe for children’. Gov. Josh Green, a medical doctor, says he’ll testify against Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as health and human services secretary if the U.S. Senate asks him. Hawaii News Now.

Trump vows to axe the federal Education Department. Here's what Hawaiʻi education leaders are saying. Public school Superintendent Keith Hayashi told HPR that 11% of Hawaiʻi's DOE budget is made up of federal funds — about $42 billion a year. Hawaiʻi is also the only state that has a centralized DOE.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Kindergarten Readiness Is Low, Even As Investments Remain High. The state continues to build more preschool classrooms for 3- and 4-year-olds, but researchers and educators say low-income families need more support to prepare their children for school. Civil Beat.

Taiwan president praises tech ties during Hawaii visit. Taiwan’s partnership with the United States is a source of strength for the high-tech industry, including the semiconductor sector, and shows the island is a trusted and reliable partner, President Lai Ching-te told a think-tank in Hawaii. Reuters.

Hawaii Marines first to get ‘ship-killing’ missile launcher. Members of the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment held a ceremony in November at Dewey Square on Marine Corps Base Hawaii to celebrate getting their hands on a new “ship-killing” missile system they hope will give American forces an edge in the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Has The Oldest Farmers In The U.S. Hawaii’s farmers are aging fast. The latest national agricultural census, conducted in 2022 and released earlier this year, shows that nearly half — 44% — of the state’s food producers are over the age of 65. Roughly 1 in 7 Hawaii farmers — just over 14% — are over 75.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

State archive plans to digitize Pearl Harbor memorial records. The Hawaii State Archive is cataloging documents and records from the Pacific War Memorial Commission, chronicling how the state raised money to commemorate the Dec. 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor attack by Japan. Star-Advertiser.

‘No public value,’ City looks to remove payphones. Pay phones are more prevalent than you might think and they all seem to have one thing in common. They don’t work. Now, the focus is on getting rid of them. KHON2.

What does Miske’s death mean for accused co-conspirators, victims? The death in federal prison of one of Hawaii’s most notorious criminals leaves the cases of his accused co-conspirators in limbo and his victims without closure, according to legal experts. The tens of millions in assets seized are also likely to remain with the government. KHON2.

Miske Felt Hopeful About Appeal Before His Death In Jail, Lawyer Says. Officials have not released information about the circumstances surrounding Sunday's death of the convicted organized crime leader at the Federal Detention Center In Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Alameda, others sworn in during inauguration in West Hawaii. Hundreds were in attendance Monday, including Gov. Josh Green and Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, as Mayor Kimo Alameda, Prosecutor Kelden Waltjen and the nine County Council members were inaugurated at the Kaleiopapa Convention Center on the grounds of the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa in Keauhou. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.  KHON2.

Roth touts savings following arbitration with HGEA. Hawaii County has reached a “significant arbitration outcome” with a government workers’ union over COVID-19 hazard pay, outgoing Mayor Mitch Roth announced Monday. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Special Feral Pig Hunt Announced On Hawaiʻi Island. Pig hunting will be allowed on certain dates within the Puʻu Mali Restoration Area and the Kaʻohe Restoration Area. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County Council members are deciding how a long-awaited housing project will move forward in South Maui. The project was scaled back considerably since it was first approved nearly 20 years ago, and some are outraged. Monday’s Housing and Land Use Committee meeting ended with no decision. Hawaii News Now.

County hui tackles broadband issues. The Maui Broadband Hui counted 150 locations that they saw were underserved and unserved that later triggered 7,585 residents to be checked by major service providers such as Hawaiian Tel and/or Spectrum. Maui News.

14 months after Maui wildfires, visitor arrivals were up from year before levels, but down from pre-pandemic October 2019. According to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, there were 774,617 visitors to the Hawaiian Islands in October 2024, growth of 5.4% from the same month last year.  Maui Now.

LAPD: Missing Maui woman seen on video crossing US-Mexico border. In a news conference, the Los Angeles Police Department said the family of 30-year-old Hannah Kobayashi was made aware of video that was obtained, showing Kobayashi crossing the border on foot from San Diego into Mexico on Nov. 12 at 12:13 p.m. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County inauguration swears in many familiar faces, and a newcomer to the council. As the calendar year comes to an end, the latest iteration of Kaua‘i County government formally began Monday with the inauguration of its county council and prosecuting attorney at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall in Līhu‘e. Kauai Now.

Kauai legislators host town meeting. The Kauai House Delegation to the State Legislature will host a community town hall meeting on Tuesday from 5:30 top 7:30 p.m. at the Kauai Philippine Cultural Center, located adjacent to the YMCA of Kauai and the Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School. Garden Island.

Hawaii sued over gun ban, state agency seeks to fix 'failing' foster care system, Honolulu advances empty home tax, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lawsuit Challenges Hawaii’s Gun Ownership Ban For Young Adults. The latest lawsuit to take aim at Hawaii’s gun laws challenges the state’s ban on gun ownership for young adults 18 to 20 years old, which Second Amendment advocates say is an unconstitutional restriction on the right of Americans to bear arms. Lawyers assert that Hawaii is the only state with a complete ban on acquiring and owning firearms and ammunition by those who are 18 to 20. Associated Press.

Hawaii agency details plan to improve ‘failing’ foster care. Daisy Lynn Hartsfield, administrator of the Social Services Division overseeing the Child Welfare Serv­ices Branch within the state Department of Human Services, presented corrective action plan goals to a panel of state lawmakers Thursday in the wake of alarming findings in the audit requested by the Legislature in 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Report: Hawai'i suicide hotline calls increased while answer rates dropped. The results showed that call rates rose from about 97 to 137 per 100,000 residents following the Maui wildfire — that’s a 41% increase. But in-state answer rates dropped from about 90.3% to 77.2%. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Sheriff Division Faces New Scrutiny In 2019 Capitol Shooting Trial. A civil trial over a former deputy sheriff’s fatal shooting of a man outside the State Capitol five years ago began this week in a case that cast a spotlight on turmoil in the understaffed sheriff division. Civil Beat.

Gov. Josh Green's concerns about Trump's Cabinet picks. Green expressed concern over some of Trump's Cabinet appointments, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s selection to head the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as Dr. Mehmet Oz to run the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Hawaii Public Radio.

The ‘Ridiculous,’ Growing Trend Of Hawaii Private School Coaching. Tutoring centers helping students with private school admissions have become more popular in recent years, but not all families can afford them. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council’s empty-homes tax measure advances.  Thursday the Honolulu City Council’s Budget Committee voted 3-2, with Esther Kia‘aina and Augie Tulba dissenting, to advance the second of three readings of Bill 46, which could tax a vacant real property by as much as 3%. Star-Advertiser.

West Oahu May Get More Than 800 New Short-Term Rentals In Apartment Zone. Parcels next to the Hoakalei Resort in Ewa were a hot topic at the Honolulu City Council’s final hearing on the overhauling of its Land Use Ordinance. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting improves review times. It's also aggressively trying to double its current staff and has upgraded its software so now you can track the status of your permits. KITV4.

Par Hawaii to invest $90 million in renewable-fuel transformation. A petroleum refinery in the James Campbell Industrial Park officially began its transition into the clean- energy sector with a blessing ceremony Thursday, marking the start of its efforts to adopt more sustainable energy practices and work toward Gov. Josh Green’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045.  Star-Advertiser.

HPD pushes for tougher ‘ghost gun’ laws amid spike. The 88 ghost guns recovered by the Honolulu Police Department this year come from crimes they were used in or were found during investigations. The seizures represent a nearly 70% increase from the 52 found by officers in 2023. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Coast Guard establishes first Hawaii-based JROTC program. Coast Guard establishes first Hawaii-based JROTC program. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s recycled plastic, asphalt road shows ‘no increased leaching’ in 2 years. Some Ewa Beach residents have been driving on a road that is partially made of recycled plastic for over two years. KHON2.

Navy to start 'large-scale' effort to remove invasive coral at Pearl Harbor. Unomia stolonifera is a species of “octocoral,” also known as “pulsing coral” or "stoloniferous fire coral," and was first detected in the harbor in 2020. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOH: No humans tested positive for H5N1 from infected flock. The Hawaii Department of Health says so far, no one has tested positive for avian influenza after the first detection of H5N1 in a flock of ducks and geese last week. DOH followed up with 54 individuals for potential exposure to the infected flock in Wahiawa. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Proposal regarding hospitals advances. In order to improve health care access across the Big Island, the Hawaii County Planning Department hopes to expand where hospitals and other medical facilities are allowed to be built. Tribune-Herald.

Hope Services Hawaii Granted $2.5 Million From Bezos Day 1 Families Fund. The grant from Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez will help connect Hawaiʻi island families experiencing homelessness with stable housing and critical services. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Modular home hauling for Lahaina happening Friday and Saturday. The Hawai’i Department of Transportation said Thursday that local drivers may expect slight traffic delays as modular homes for wildfire survivors are being transported from Central Maui to the Ka Laʻi Ola housing site. Maui News.

State Historic Preservation Division working to streamline Lahaina approvals. In an effort to reduce delays and frustration for residents and commercial property owners preparing to rebuild in fire-ravaged Lahaina, the DLNR State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) is working to balance speed and efficiency with protection of historic and archeological resources, particularly iwi, department officials said. Maui Now.

Panel discusses how ancestral knowledge can guide Lahaina rebuilding following 2023 wildfire. Hundreds gathered at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa for the 2024 Piʻo Summit: Hulihia: Fire and Rain, a free series of forums focused on leveraging ancestral ʻike (knowledge) to support long-term recovery efforts for communities affected by the Lahaina wildfires and the 2018 Kauaʻi floods. Maui Now.

New Kahului homes blessed and move-in ready for two healthcare professionals impacted by the Lahaina fires. The first two completed homes under the Housing for Healthcare initiative were blessed in a private ceremony held with the two new tenants and their families, both Maui healthcare professionals who lost their homes and belongings in the devastating Lahaina fires last year. The families moved into their homes this month. Maui Now.

Maui bus gets stuck in sinkhole the size of a small swimming pool. A Maui bus made an unexpected stop Wednesday when pooling water on a Kahului Street turned out to be a growing sinkhole and the rear wheels of the bus got stuck in the hole. Maui News. Maui Now.

Hawaii News Now responds to Maui Police Department accusations. The Maui Police Department says it has lodged a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission over reports by HNN Investigates about the mishandling of human remains after the Lahaina wildfire. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Community partners feted for wildfire efforts. Various community members and agencies were honored at an awards ceremony Tuesday for their heroic efforts during mid-July wildfires. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Green remains a popular governor, Honolulu mayor vetoes fireworks measure, pro-development super PAC aims to influence Maui council races, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green ranks sixth nationally in governor approval ratings. Gov. Josh Green ranks in the top 10 in approval ratings compared with the rest of America’s governors, according to separate surveys reported this month. Morning Consult, an independent pollster that conducts political polling and continues to track this year’s presidential race, placed Green sixth most popular in the nation, with a 62% approval rating that “likely reflects a solid base of support among Hawaii’s electorate.” The Cato Institute — which leans conservative and advocates for small government — ranked Green tied for seventh among all governors. Star-Advertiser.

These 3 House races could flip seats in the state Legislature. In the House, there are six Republicans — three face competitive Democratic challengers this year. Reps. David Alcos, Diamond Garcia and Elijah Pierick of Oʻahu are part of a more socially conservative pack of Republicans elected in the 2022 election. Hawaii Public Radio.

OHA race: Ahuna and Lindsey run modest campaigns for Kauaʻi and Niʻihau seat. OHA is a semi-autonomous agency created to better the conditions of Native Hawaiians. The agency is tasked with managing a trust of about $600 million. The general election is on Nov. 5 and as a statewide race, all Hawaiʻi residents can  vote for OHA. Hawaii Public Radio.

ACLU of Hawaii demands investigation into Arizona prison’s drinking water. The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii is demanding an investigation into the drinking water quality at Saguaro Correctional Center in Arizona. Nearly a thousand Hawaii inmates are incarcerated there. Hawaii News Now. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Campaign aims to prevent aquarium dumping. The weeklong “Don’t Let It Loose” campaign aims to prevent aquarium owners from releasing these invasive species into the ocean, as well as the importation and possession of illegal marine aquarium species. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  KHON2.

Oahu

Honolulu mayor blows up fireworks measure. Bill 22, adopted by a majority of the Council in early October to allow ground-level fountains and sparklers to be lit in public on Oahu, was vetoed Oct. 25 by Mayor Rick Blangiardi. Star-Advertiser.

City Council considers reviving its agricultural development task force. The nine-member group of agriculture stakeholders and practitioners would recommend policies in zoning, land use, infrastructure, and other issues that would affect farming and food production on the island. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘It scared the hell out of me’: Emotions pour over Red Hill crisis at BWS meeting. The Board of Water Supply is standing by its warning that a fuel-related chemical plume could be spreading from the Navy’s Red Hill tanks. This after the Navy accused the agency of “misinformation” and being “grossly inaccurate.” Hawaii News Now.

Cleanup underway after heavy rain, runoff turn Ala Wai harbor into dump site. State crews and volunteers are clearing debris from the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor after the weekend’s heavy rains triggered runoff from Makiki, Palolo and Manoa streams. Those waterways have been littered with illegally dumped items, such as appliances and landscaping waste. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Halloween Eve flash flood at UH Manoa left ruin in its wake. Wednesday marks the 20th anniversary of a Halloween Eve flash flood that sent a tsunami of mud, water and debris up to 8 feet high roaring through the University of Hawaii Manoa campus, damaging 30 buildings and tossing dumpsters and vehicles in its path. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Crisis Intervention Team Expands On Hawaiʻi Island. The Hawaiʻi Police Department has expanded its Crisis Intervention Team with the addition of 10 new officers. Big Island Video News.

More than $9.1 million coming to Hawai‘i for forest restoration projects. A Big Island company is one of two entities that will receive funds from the federal government for forest restoration projects that will help protect rare species, support agricultural production and increase climate resilience in Hawai‘i. Big Island Now.

Lease extension for Hilo mainstay spurs debate. The Board of Land and Natural Resources approved on Friday a 20-year lease extension for three parcels at the intersection of Kanoelehua Avenue and Leilani Street to Yamada Consolidated Inc., which was first issued a state lease in 1959 for a term of 45 years. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Carpenters Union Super PAC Is Spending Big On Maui Council Races. For A Better Tomorrow is supporting three pro-development candidates for the Maui County Council. Civil Beat.

Two Escape Routes Could Have Saved Dozens Of Maui Fire Victims. Without the dead end on Kuhua Street and the private lot dividing Aki Street, everyone there likely would have gotten out safely, Maui county planners say. Civil Beat.

State Historic Preservation Division Backlog Is Stalling Building On Maui. Experts say the bureaucratic limbo facing a Maui couple trying to rebuild their home outside of Lahaina reflects a broader problem. Civil Beat.

FEMA seeks landowners for modular home sites to help displaced Lahaina residents. To expand housing options in West Maui for wildfire survivors, FEMA is collaborating with the County of Maui and Lahaina property owners to place modular housing units on private properties. Hawaii Public Radio.

5 ʻalalā, the only surviving endemic crow, will be reintroduced on Maui. Five ʻalalā will soon be released into the wild from a temporary field aviary on the slopes of Haleakalā — the latest in the reintroduction efforts for the Hawaiian crow.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kouchi named Healthcare Association of Hawaiʻi’s State Legislator of the Year. Hawaiʻi Senate President and longtime Kauaʻi state legislator Ronald Kouchi was recently honored by a Hawaiʻi nonprofit aimed at creating a healthy Hawaiʻi, where every resident has access to affordable, high quality health care. Kauai Now.

Energy report could determine future of liquified natural gas favored by Green, Honolulu proposes 124% sewer rate hike, Hilo harbor plan requires private land, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Upcoming fuel report could determine new direction for the state's energy strategy. Gov. Josh Green turned heads this summer when he suggested the state should reconsider importing liquefied natural gas, or LNG. Now, the Hawaiʻi State Energy Office is close to releasing a comprehensive analysis on whether or not the controversial energy resource is a good bet for the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ballot question would change judicial selection process. A proposed constitutional amendment about the appointment of judges will have many voters scratching their heads.Supporters of the change worry that people will ignore the proposal because of confusion -- and cause it to die. Hawaii News Now.

Projected air seat declines underscore Hawaii tourism softening. Total trans-Pacific airline seats for Hawaii’s top U.S. market are projected to drop in November and December, with losses widening at the start of next year and remaining evident into April, according to Hawai‘i Visitors &Convention Bureau market data. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Tourism officials update lawmakers on sustainable practices. Tourism officials briefed lawmakers Wednesday on the management and marketing of Hawaii’s largest industry, focusing on sustainability and cultural preservation. KHON2.

Hawaii man charged in Trump assassination attempt seeks judge’s recusal.  Defense lawyers for Ryan W. Routh of Kaaawa, charged with trying to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his golf course in Florida renewed their efforts Wednesday to get the Trump-appointed judge who is handling the case to step down, citing a recent news article saying she is under consideration for a top legal position if Trump wins the election. New York Times.

Hawaii stores fined nearly $1M this year for unregistered chemicals. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency levied a fine against the local operator of Daiso stores this month to the tune of nearly $315,000 for unregistered pesticides and misbranded pesticide devices. Earlier in the year, the EPA also fined the parent company of Don Quijote, Times Supermarket and Marukai Market over $660,000 for selling unregistered chemicals — think disinfectants, plant growth regulators, as well as insecticides and pesticides for things like roach control. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

City proposing 124% residential sewer fee hikes over the next 10 years on Oahu. Starting July 1, the city plans to increase city sewer fees over a 10-year period that will impact single-family residential customers — who consume 9,000 gallons of water a month toward sewer usage, like flushing the toilet — as well as all other customer classes served by the city and county’s sewer system. Star-Advertiser.

As property insurance rates continue to rise, many condo owners are finding it difficult or impossible to keep up with the costs. As a result, the Honolulu City Council is considering a resolution asking the state Legislature to pass policies next session that would address the issue. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hilton Hawaiian Village workers mark 30 days on strike. Over 1,800 Hilton Hawaiian Village workers marked 30 days on strike Wednesday, and people who don't work there are increasingly siding with the strikers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Leader of heavily armed drug-dealing gang gets 30 years. The leader of a heavily armed Honolulu drug trafficking organization that marketed deadly fentanyl-­laced mixes of opioids, heroin and methamphetamine will serve 30 years in federal prison. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

EA details harbor plan: Document gives DOT green light to purchase five lots to expand the entrance. The state by the end of next year could purchase a little over nine acres of land on Kalanianaole Street to expand the entrance to Hilo Harbor. Tribune-Herald.

In surprise move, state Supreme Court takes on appeal of Hilo doctor’s HMSA lawsuit. Hilo obstetrician-gynecologist Frederick Nitta filed a lawsuit in 2022 against the Hawaii Medical Services Association over several incidents in which the insurer failed to cover certain medications and treatments he considered to be medically necessary for patients. Tribune-Herald.

Ironman’s Parade of Nations in Kona showcases athletes participating from 85 countries. Patrons at the Da Shark Shack threw shakas and cheered as triathletes from around the world walked along Ali’i Drive in downtown Kailua-Kona on Tuesday during the 2024 VinFast Ironman World Championship’’s traditional Parade of Nations. Big Island Now.

Teen killed after utility vehicle driven by 8-year-old veers off road. An investigation is underway following a utility vehicle crash that killed a 13-year-old boy on Hawaii Island. The boy has been identified as Maxim Beregovoy.   KITV4. Hawaii News Now. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui lawmakers discuss rebuilding 'nonconforming' structures in Lahaina, vacation rentals. The long-standing, bitter debate over vacation rentals on Maui took center stage during a Maui County Council Housing and Land Use Committee meeting on Wednesday discussing Bill 105.  KITV4.

Homes for FEMA’s Kilohana temporary housing site to be delivered next week to Lahaina. Motorists are advised of potential traffic delays as 10 modular homes for wildfire survivors are transported from Kahului Harbor to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Kilohana temporary housing site in Lahaina. Maui Now.

Kahului Public Library to temporarily close beginning Nov. 1 to complete interior renovations. The Kahului Public Library will temporarily close to complete extensive interior renovations beginning Friday, Nov. 1.  At this time, the renovation project is scheduled to be completed in Spring 2025. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Island Utility Co-op honored for excellence, innovation in energy. The Association of Energy Engineers — Western U.S. Region presented Kauaʻi Island Utility Co-op with the Award for Institutional Energy Management during the Association of Energy Engineers World Energy Conference & Expo last month in Nashville. Kauai Now.

Jobless rate jumps in September on Kauai. A pullback in a number of employment sectors sent the jobless rate up more than one-half-percentage point in the final month of summer on the island of Kauai. Garden Island.

State seeks way to implement 100 recommendations in Maui fire aftermath, Routh's Kaaawa neighbors shocked by alleged would-be assassin in their midst, medical respite facility for Oahu homeless unveiled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State grapples with next steps following release of latest Lahaina fire report. The second phase of the attorney general’s report on the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires includes over 100 recommendations for the state, county, utility companies and general public to better prepare and respond to the threat of wildfires. Hawaii Public Radio.

OHA awards $2.8M in grants to address Native Hawaiian health, culture, economy and homestead needs. Support for traditional healing practices, training for navigators involved in traditional Polynesian voyaging, business education for entrepreneurs, assistance for vulnerable populations and funding for neighborhood watch initiatives on homestead lands are just some of the projects that will be advanced thanks to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Grants Program. Kauai Now.

Hawaii Man Accused Of Trying To Kill Trump Wrote A Book Urging Iran To Assassinate The Ex-President. Ryan Wesley Routh moved to Kaaawa outside of Honolulu in 2018 to go in business with his adult son building small wooden sheds. Associated Press. Star-Advertiser.

Alleged gunman Ryan Routh shocks neighbors in Kaaawa. For the past six years, Ryan Routh has called the quiet and tranquil neighborhood of Kaaawa home.  KITV4.

Oahu

City, state unveil medical respite to provide care for the homeless. In a joint effort to deal with homelessness on Oahu, Mayor Rick Blangiardi and Gov. Josh Green on Monday formally unveiled the Aala Respite at the edge of downtown Honolulu. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Gov. Green says he cannot legally intervene in Kapi‘olani labor dispute. Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children management has said the lockout prohibiting HNA-represented nurses from returning to work will remain in place until the latest contract offer is unconditionally accepted. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

HPD Is Adding Dozens Of Extra Police Officers To Westside Patrols. Honolulu police are calling on reserve officers to provide more police presence to the area after a series of shootings and other violent crimes have rattled the community. Civil Beat. KHON2.

This tucked away south shore beach is becoming a “chill spot” for college kids, and some residents are not happy. The beach is right off Diamond Head Road, where vehicles coming down the hill often pick up speed before coming around a curve near the park. Hawaii News Now.

Firefighters suspend operations battling Kalihi Valley brush fire due to darkness; Fire is 75% contained. Honolulu firefighters have suspended fire operations just before 6 p.m. on Monday night due to darkness in their battle with a brush fire in Kalihi Valley. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Council members establish wishlist of legislative priorities. Changes to state regulations regarding e-cigarettes and midwives are among a wishlist of state bills the Hawaii County Council hopes to see pass next year. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea Lava Eruption Resumes On Middle East Rift Zone. The eruption, which resumed at 6 p.m. Monday evening, is occurring within a closed and remote area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

North Kona Water Restriction Ended After Well Repair. The Kalaoa Deepwell has been repaired and returned to service, which means the required 25% water restriction for North Kona has been downgraded to a voluntary 10% water conservation.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Mayor Bissen hosting community budget meetings for Fiscal Year 2026. Mayor Richard Bissen and his administration will host community budget meetings throughout Maui County starting next week for residents to share their priorities and provide input on the budget for Fiscal Year 2026, which begins July 1, 2025.  Maui Now.

Maui Housing Advocates Push For Rent Control Bill To Cap Soaring Prices. A proposal aimed at stabilizing rents got its first hearing before the Housing and Land Use Committee. Civil Beat.

1-day mass permitting events to continue in West, South Maui. The County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation will continue one-day mass permitting events for summer 2025 private-­party community center permits in West and South Maui districts. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Multiple Hanamā‘ulu brush fires ʻintentionally setʻ Sunday. Several small brush fires were extinguished by firefighters in the area of Kalepa Ridge in Hanamā‘ulu on Sunday, Sept. 16, which the Kauaʻi Fire Department believes were intentionally set.  Kauai Now. Spectrum News.

Wilcox nurses holding candlelight vigil for ‘unsafe staffing conditions’ . The nurses of Wilcox Medical Center are holding a candlelight vigil to stand in solidarity with the nurses of Kapi‘olani Medical Center on Monday, Sept. 16, who were recently “locked out” following a one-day strike amid contract contention.  Kauai Now.

Maui fire recovery, pandemic hazard pay strain state budget, Green leads delegation to Japan, Blangiardi signs bill increasing grants to developers of affordable housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor: Hawaii Can Pay The Bills For Maui Fire Recovery, Hazard Pay And More. The administration has not yet released a budget plan for covering those costs, but the governor says it can be done without tapping into the rainy day fund. Civil Beat.

Maui judge agrees to ask state Supreme Court about barriers to $4B wildfire settlement. Judge Peter Cahill on Maui agreed Friday to ask the state high court questions about how insurance companies can go about recouping money paid to policyholders. Associated Press.

Disaster insurance drove billions in revenue for companies. Hawaii homeowners and businesses have purchased nearly $38 billion in disaster insurance over the last 20 years, generating more than $23 billion in net income for insurance companies and further driving Gov. Josh Green to insist that insurers be barred from suing the entities responsible for last year’s Maui wildfires, including the state. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Transportation Department holds fate of Alaska-Hawaiian merger. Two weeks have passed since the proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines cleared what is traditionally considered its most significant regulatory hurdle. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Gov. Green travels to Japan to strengthen ties with sister cities. Green will also lead a delegation of local businesses for the Tokyo International Gift Show, meet with the US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, and will meet with leaders from Fukuoka, Ehime and Hiroshima prefectures. Maui Now.

In first interview since losing election, Hawaii's house speaker Scott Saiki discusses long career in politics. Video Only. Hawaii News Now.

UH developed, living coastal-protection system prepares for deployment. The University of Hawaiʻi has reached a milestone in the US Department of Defense funded project that aims to create a living breakwater system to protect coastlines from erosion and create ecosystems where resilient corals and other ocean life can grow and thrive. Maui Now.

Oahu

New Honolulu law aims to spur affordable rental construction. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 3 to increase post-construction grant amounts for privately financed rental housing projects, deemed a key incentive for developers trying to make projects financially feasible, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Board to review CEO’s contract on Friday, HART says. The next employment agreement for Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s executive director and CEO, Lori Kahikina, is set for possible approval later this week. Star-Advertiser.

City unveils plans to alter Oahu’s livable landscape to match population growth. Pearl City residents got to see the city’s ambitious plan to reshape their neighborhood. It includes replacing rundown buildings with new high-rises over the next 16 years. Hawaii News Now.

A Wave Of Westside Shootings Has People Saying ‘Enough Is Enough.’ But What More Can Be Done? Honolulu police promised to step up officer patrols in the area, where residents have long felt neglected by city services.  Neighbors’ complaint about speeding cars set off Waianae man’s deadly rampage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Kapi‘olani Medical Center nurses vote to go on strike again. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association, which represents 600 Kapi‘olani nurses, said Sunday night that its members voted by an overwhelming majority to give the union the green light to call for a walkout if a contract cannot be reached with Hawaii Pacific Health, which operates Kapi‘olani. Star-Advertiser.

Assets School is granted $1.25 million for tuition aid. Assets School, the only K-12 school in Hawaii specializing in educating children who are gifted, dyslexic or have other language-­based learning differences, has received an anonymous $1.25 million donation to support tuition assistance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Gov. Green Fills Hawaii House of Representatives Vacancy. Matthias Kusch will represent Hamakua, Kaumana and parts of Hilo on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

Overnight Safe Space opens in Hilo. The Hilo Overnight Safe Space is a 25-bed outdoor tent at the Salvation Army’s facility downtown on Ponahawai Street.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Conservation groups say Hawaiʻi Supreme Court aquarium fishing ruling will hurt ecosystem.  The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on Wednesday approved the legality of an environmental review to allow limited aquarium fishing around Hawaiʻi Island, leading to concerns about opening up the industry throughout the West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area. Hawaii Public Radio.

State’s high court to hear arguments over release of new evidence in Dana Ireland murder case. The Hawaii Supreme Court has set Sept. 12 as the date to hear oral arguments in the legal battle over evidence in the high profile 1991 murder of Dana Ireland. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Council refers accessory dwelling bill to Housing and Land Use Committee. Maui County Council members referred to the Housing and Land Use Committee on Tuesday a bill stemming from a new state law that requires counties to change the way accessory dwellings are permitted on residential property. Maui Now.

Maui Is Fully Reopening 2 Lahaina Neighborhoods For First Time Since The Fires. The county says Wahikuli and Mala no longer present a safety or health risk to justify restricted access. Civil Beat.

Initiative works to keep Lahaina lands in local hands. The Lahaina Community Land Trust helps local residential property owners avoid selling their Lahaina land and buys  property from owners who are committed to sell and then buys the property to perpetually house local families. Star-Advertiser.

Storm rainfall brings little relief to Maui’s southside; drought conditions persist. Leslie Peterson, nursery manager of the South Maui Garden in Kihei, said the recent rainfall that hit Maui last week from storm system Gilma was nothing short of a blessing. Maui News.
 
Kauai

Kauai fishpond’s restoration is recognized. Scores of volunteers have been sweating and toiling in the mud the past five years to restore the Alakoko fishpond on Kauai, one of the last remaining ponds built by Native Hawaiians some 600 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tourist fee for climate impact likely to be revisited, Honolulu city auditor resigns, short-term rental phase-out remains in Maui Community Plan update, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Is this the year a climate impact fee will pass in the state Legislature?  There could be a stronger push to pass Gov. Josh Green’s climate impact fee during the 2025 legislative session. Green has advocated for a fee to be imposed on every Hawaiʻi tourist since he was campaigning for governor. He said that money would fund projects related to climate change and the environment. Hawaii Public Radio.

Summer tourism bump going flat as fall nears. Softness has been present in Hawaii’s visitor industry since the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires, and even in July, Maui’s more than 20% drop in visitor arrivals and nearly 18% decrease in spending were dragging down the statewide tourism performance, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

UH gets $2M to join push for domestic semiconductor design and manufacturing. The semiconductor shortage during the pandemic opened the public’s eyes to the fact that those tiny chips are critical to worldwide infrastructure from cars to computers to cell phones. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu City Auditor Resigns Nearly Halfway Through Her 6-Year Term. Arushi Kumar, who was appointed to a six-year term in October 2021, said she is moving back to Seattle, citing “changing personal circumstances and family commitments.” Civil Beat.

Audit Calls Honolulu Police Commission’s Oversight ‘Inconsistent And Ineffective’.  The Honolulu Police Commission doesn’t fully address public concerns about accountability and transparency in HPD and did not follow up consistently with the department about recurring issues surrounding officers’ activation of body cameras, according to the city auditor. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HART’s $1.66 billion contract might delay related rail work, CEO says. Although it’s not been disclosed which projects might be postponed, HART plans that the City Center Guideway and Stations, or CCGS, contract will include design and construction of six rail stations and miles of elevated rail guideway beginning east of the Middle Street Transit Center station. Star-Advertiser.

Gun Violence On Oahu’s West Side Has Parents And Teachers Worried About School Safety. Some community members want to see retired police officers stationed on high school campuses, while others say after-school activities and mental health support would be more effective. Civil Beat.

Iwilei is getting more kauhale for the homeless. But residents say it’s unsafe and unfair. The state and City of Honolulu are working to get about 300 people off the streets by having three kauhale in Iwilei. But residents say it’s unsafe and unfair. Hawaii News Now.

Developer outlines plan for new residential units at Oahu's Turtle Bay. Arete Collective purchased 65 acres of land from the Turtle Bay Resort in April. It said it has already begun work on the first phase of its project, four low-rise buildings with 20 residential units. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Registration pending for plane that crashed, records show. The Federal Aviation Administration’s records show that ownership registration was pending for the Cessna that crash-landed Wednesday close to the Upolu Airport near Hawi on Hawaii island’s North Kohala coast. Star-Advertiser.

Gilma Dissipates Less Than 200 Miles East Northeast Of Hilo. The remnants of Gilma – once a major hurricane – are moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph, and forecasters say this motion is expected to continue over the next couple of days.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Short-term rental phase-out remains in South Maui Community Plan update. Maui Planning Commission members breezed by a proposed policy statement in the draft South Maui Community Plan update Tuesday evening, agreeing by consensus that the plan would aim to increase long-term residential housing by phasing-out short-term rentals from Māʻalaea to Kanaio. Maui Now.

Former Maui homeless shelter resident says it’s safer and cleaner to live out on the streets. Drugs, overdoses, and deaths are just a few of the complaints emerging from a homeless shelter on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Visitation to Maui at highest level last month since August of 2023. Maui has seen an increase in visitors for the month of July, compared to July 2023, and an increase in visitor spending.  Maui News.

9 month road closure of Kekaulike Ave. near Mile 8.2 begins Sept. 3. Goodfellow Bros. will begin performing road work on Kekaulike Ave. at Mile 8.2 on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024. A Full road closure will be in effect for this construction area for the next nine months.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. Kauaʻi could soon start giving police money to enforce illegal parking or stopping on state highways. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most surf sites test clean in August. A monthly analysis of streams, rivers and surf spots around the island found high concentrations of enterococcus bacterium — a federally recognized indicator of fecal presence in water — at a number of locations. Garden Island.

‘The canoe will never leave you:’ Hōkūleʻa sets sail after two-week stay on Kaua‘i. Hōkūleʻa is now headed to Haleʻiwa on the North Shore of O‘ahu. Kauai Now.