About 70-80% face mask compliance in Hawaii, Honolulu Fire chief to justify OT, Pearl Harbor ceremony closed to the public, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Masks are worn at Hawaii farmers market ©2020 All Hawaii News

Lt. Governor: Current facemask rules 'too difficult’ to enforce, suggests revisions. With the holidays approaching, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said the current mask mandate is not enough to control a potential winter surge. He adds that mask wearing rates have ranged between 70-80%, but if the state can’t get over 90% consistently, he said there will be a spread of COVID. Hawaii News Now.

Health experts warn lawmakers about holiday surge. There are alarming projections from local health experts of a possible surge in COVID cases as we head toward the holidays. They say it emphasizes the need to strictly follow all the necessary precautions. KHON2.

Hawaii’s COVID numbers are climbing more slowly than the rest of the U.S. The 14-day change in Hawaii cases was up 36% through Saturday. For the nation as a whole, that number was up 80%. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii Eases Travel Restrictions, Military Maintains Quarantines. Military spouses and their children can bypass the state’s 14-day quarantine with a negative COVID-19 test but are urged not to. Civil Beat.

Time Is Running Out For Hawaii To Spend $877 Million In Coronavirus Relief Funds. Money set aside to help struggling renters and small businesses will be used to replenish the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund if the cash isn’t spent by Dec. 31. Civil Beat.

Pension fund climbs 5.3% despite challenges. The state Employees’ Retirement System portfolio — which includes contributions and distributions — rose by more than $900 million to finish the quarter that ended Sept. 30 at $18 billion and mark its second robust quarter in a row after posting a 6.2% return in the quarter that ended June 30. Star-Advertiser.

State Senate mulls Char’s judicial appointment. The state Senate is scheduled to convene a special session Wednesday to review Gov. David Ige’s appointment for a vacancy on the Hawai‘i Supreme Court and Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald’s appointment of Stephanie Char to the District Family Court of the Fifth Circuit. Garden Island.

Pearl Harbor Commemoration Ceremony To Be Closed To Public. The annual Remembrance Day ceremony to commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor will be closed to the public this year and streamed online as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The ceremony will begin at 7:50 a.m. on Dec. 7 at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial’s Contemplation Circle in Hawaii. Associated Press.

COVID-19 Data: Dashboards Galore, But Key Data Still Sparse. People in Hawaii have plenty of COVID-19 dashboards to choose from, but important information sought by researchers and policymakers is still missing. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — Nov. 14: 108 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii health officials reported 108 new COVID-19 cases statewide on Saturday, including one on Maui, three on Kauai, 12 on Hawaii Island and 90 on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council to hear from HFD chief on OT issues. A Honolulu City Council committee on Wednesday will hear from Fire Chief Manuel Neves and other Hono­lulu Fire Department brass on what progress they’ve made to shore up fiscal policies in response to a report on overtime payments issued in June by the city’s Internal Control Division. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed walkway over Ala Moana Boulevard in Kakaako raises cost concerns. State plans to build a $30 million pedestrian and bicycle bridge across Ala Moana Boulevard in Kakaako near the site of a horrific crash that killed three pedestrians and seriously injured four other victims is drawing criticism from some community members who say the costly project will largely benefit the upscale Ward Village development and doesn’t address more urgent safety concerns at other busy intersections nearby. Star-Advertiser.

State finalizes sale of affordable-housing tower for $35 million. Local developer Stanford Carr and a California-based partner have completed a delayed purchase of a low-income housing tower in Kakaako from the state. Star-Advertiser.

City of Honolulu honors Ala Moana affordable housing project. The City and County of Honolulu presented an honorary certificate to the developer of an affordable housing project in the Ala Moana area on Nov. 15. KHON2.

New affordable rental units ready for residents in Waikiki. The “Lilia Waikiki” is the first new, for-rent development in the area in decades. Rent ranges from $1,400 to about $2,000 a month. Hawaii News Now.

Waianae farm embarks on ‘a future of plenty’. MA‘O Organic Farms, a nonprofit organic farm in Waianae that helps young adults, largely from the area, develop skills and go to college has secured $11.5 million to grow operations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council to get update on mayoral transition. Hawaii County’s outgoing and incoming mayors are set to provide Hawaii County Council members with an update on transition plans this week. West Hawaii Today.

Pay to park in downtown Hilo? Proposed project would help fund area revitalization. Paid parking and other changes could be coming to downtown Hilo under a proposed model for a Business Improvement District. Tribune-Herald.

382 Abandoned Vehicles Removed From Hawaiian Homestead In Puna. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and Hawaiʻi County partnered to removes the vehicles - and tires - from Makuʻu. Big Island Video News.

Airport construction continues: Nan Inc. awarded $8.3M USDA inspection building contract. Construction is anticipated to begin next year on a new USDA inspection building at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole. West Hawaii Today.

West Hawai‘i COVID Surge Shows No Signs of Slowing. Hawai‘i County Civil Defense reported nine new cases of coronavirus on the Big Island Sunday. Maui Now.

Maui

Whistleblower details hostile work environment allegations against Maui prosecutor. As a longtime victims rights advocate and deputy prosecutor on Maui, Leslee Matthews has seen hundreds of cases of domestic violence and household abuse. But she never thought she would be a victim of workplace abuse — allegedly at the hands of own her boss, Maui Prosecutor Don Guzman. Hawaii News Now.

BLNR OKs E. Maui water for Mahi Pono. Following staff recommendations, the state Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday unanimously approved another round of one-year permits, allowing the diversion of water from East Maui streams on state land in 2021 for Mahi Pono crops. Maui News.

Kahului Power Plant shutdown plan presented. Hawaiian Electric has developed a plan to shut down the power generation capability of the 72-year-old oil-fired Kahului Power Plant in 2024, while maintaining some of its power distribution capabilities, and building a new switchyard off Pulehu Road. Maui News.

Two administrators leaving Maui Health. Two Maui Health administrators will be leaving by the end of this month, the hospital operator announced. Mike Swanson, assistant administrator of hospital operations, is retiring effective Nov. 27. Debbie Walsh, chief operating officer, is also leaving Maui Health to be with her family on the Mainland. Her last day will be Nov. 30. Maui News.

Kauai

Input sought on housing. The County Housing Agency will hold a public hearing on Monday, Nov. 30, on proposed rules and regulations governing the certification of affordable Additional Rental Units. Garden Island.

Kauai counting new group of cases not identified by state. Since travel restrictions eased in mid-October, Kauai has reported 30 new COVID-19 cases. KHON2.

More Travel-Related Kauai Cases Reported, Could Trigger Additional Restrictions. Kauai officials yesterday reported three new cases on the island, two related to travel, including one who tested negative in a pre-flight test and then tested positive. The continuing increase in cases on the island could trigger more restrictions under the county's reopening plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

Over 400 tested in Kapa‘a. The free, COVID-19-surge-testing program offers residents, especially those involved with the hospitality industry and the uninsured, an opportunity to get tested for the novel coronavirus. Garden Island.

County mayors seek return of inter-island quarantine as Oahu COVID-19 cases spike, Green warns ICU could be overrun, airports install thermal screening, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Thermal screening at Honolulu airport PC:Screen grab from HDOT video

New thermal cameras now helping scan passengers in Hawaii’s airports. New thermal screening cameras have been installed at Hawaii airports that welcome trans-Pacific travelers to detect anyone who may have a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. Hawaii News Now.

Thermal Screening Now In Use At Hawaii Airports. The Hawaii Department of Transportation Airports Division announced on Wednesday that thermal temperature screening equipment is now in use to help detect passengers with a temperature of 100.4 degrees and above. Big Island Video News.

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Pressure builds to impose COVID-19 restrictions. The number of COVID-19 cases climbed to another triple-digit record on Oahu Wednesday, placing further pressure on Gov. David Ige and other top officials to impose tighter restrictions to prevent the spread of the disease. Star-Advertiser.

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Neighbor Island Mayors Want Ige To Reinstate Interisland Quarantine. The mayors also asked the governor to keep schools closed until September. Civil Beat.

Mayors call for further restrictions on neighbor island travel. County mayors in Hawaii are taking action to slow down the spread of the virus within their communities, at least two mayors have requested for the governor to reimpose the two-week quarantine for all arrivals. KHON2.

Inter-island quarantine requested. Mayor Derek Kawakami, along with Mayors Harry Kim and Mike Victorino, are requesting Governor David Ige reinstate the 14-day quarantine for inter-island travel after the state reported 900 new cases of COVID-19 over the past week. Garden Island.

Neighbor Island mayors to governor: Reinstate inter-island quarantine, keep schools closed. Hawaii’s three Neighbor Island mayors are urging the governor to reinstate a mandatory quarantine for inter-island travel and keep public schools closed. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Mayor Renews Push for Interisland Quarantine. Citing concern over ongoing triple digit daily COVID-19 counts on the island of Oʻahu, Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is renewing his request to reinstate the interisland travel quarantine. This comes after an initial request made nearly two weeks ago on Friday July 24, amid record increases in cases statewide. Maui Now.

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In ‘sobering’ warning, Lt. Gov. Green says Hawaii ICUs could be full by the end of the month. Hospitals in the islands could soon be on the verge of running out of intensive care space as COVID-19 infections surge on Oahu, public health officials warn. Hawaii News Now.

Green warns of COVID-19 hospital surge. An additional 173 new cases of COVID-19 were announced Wednesday, pushing the state’s total case count to 2,389 as Lt. Gov. Josh Green warned of an impending hospital surge. West Hawaii Today.

Expect COVID-19 hospitalization spike in 1-2 weeks, says health experts. Officials say they are concerned that the consistently high COVID-19 numbers on Oahu may lead to more hospitalizations, and that this could overburden the hospital system. KHON2.

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Hawaii leaders are pleading with residents to help prevent COVID-19 spread. With yet another triple-digit increase in COVID-19 cases, calls to bring back the stay-at-home order are growing. KHON2.

Health expert says a potential second lockdown is not Hawaii's only option to turning things around. Hawaii is again bracing for a possible shutdown. KITV4.

Crucial Public Information Missing To Create A Local COVID-19 Model. As Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases surge, there is still no direction from Gov. David Ige on what should trigger the restrictions to help stop the virus, and when things can ease again. Hawaii Public Radio.

State To Publish New COVID-19 Prevention And Testing Data. New metrics will include face mask compliance and turnaround times for lab tests. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmaker, union looking into California law regarding COVID-19 reporting. Hawaii House of Representatives Labor Chair Aaron Johanson thinks that Hawaii’s ability to contact trace could be dwindling, prompting him to consider legislation like California. KHON2.

Widespread, Frequent COVID-19 Testing ‘Can Wipe This Off The Planet’. Amid surging cases and widespread dissatisfaction with Gov. David Ige’s plans for schools and tourism, doctors and economists want ramped-up testing. Civil Beat.

Thousands of emergency order citations, many given to homeless, are being dismissed. Prosecutors in Honolulu and Maui county have begun dismissing thousands of citations issued by police for violations of emergency stay-at-home orders. Hawaii News Now.

Petition urging Governor Ige to demand RIMPAC cancellation receives more than 12,000 signatures. Though it will be scaled-back, the world's largest maritime warfare exercise is scheduled to take place in Hawaii's waters this month. KITV4.

Economist Paul Brewbaker of TZ Economics joined Spotlight Hawaii today to talk about the state’s economic outlook in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Brewbaker argued that containing the virus and bringing the case count back down is the only way to ultimately revive the economy, even if that means a temporary shutdown of activity and more economic pain in the short run. Star-Advertiser.

Surge in virus cases highlights disparities for Pacific Islanders. Pacific Islanders make up just 4% of Hawaii’s population but represent 27% of the islands’ latest COVID-19 cases, far more than any ethnic group. Star-Advertiser.

Jury trials postponed to Oct. 2 after ‘concerning spike’ in Hawaii COVID-19 cases. All jury trials have been postponed until after Oct. 2 after a “concerning spike” in COVID-19 cases, Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald ordered today. Star-Advertiser.

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Supreme Court Hears Challenge To Lawmakers’ Gut-And-Replace Tactics. Advocates for greater transparency say the process leaves the public in the dark. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Supreme Court hears arguments about lawmakers’ use of controversial gut-and-replace tactic. The state Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday about the Legislature’s practice of stripping a bill of its original content and substituting entirely different content, a process known as gut-and-replace. Tribune-Herald.

Court eyes ‘gut-and-replace’ gambit. The state Supreme Court heard oral arguments Wednesday in a case involving what is known as a “gut-and-replace bill” that passed the state Legislature in 2018 and was enacted as Act 84. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii top court hears arguments over ‘gut and replace’ laws. Attorneys argued before the Hawaii Supreme Court on Wednesday over how much lawmakers should allow the public to weigh in on legislation as laws are being drafted and voted on. Associated Press.

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Case, Kahele Raised $1.4 Million Despite A Lack Of Competition. They received hundreds of thousands of dollars from special interest groups and those with strong ties to the business community. Civil Beat.

Iwamoto Challenges Speaker Saiki For Hawaii House Seat. It’s the first time in eight years that the race has been contested in the Democratic primary. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Democrats Select Lobbyist as New Party Chair. Tyler Dos Santos-Tam succeeds Kate Stanley for a new two-year term. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Homeless Voters Face Hurdles With All-Mail System. In Hawaii and other states, homeless people and the service providers who help them face hurdles when it comes to voting. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Community Foundation disburses $721K to local nonprofits. Hawaii Community Foundation is distributing $721,000 in aid to 39 nonprofits across the Islands, using funds from the the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, that will support food security efforts in Native Hawaiian communities statewide. Pacific Business News.

Matson finds profit in China amid Hawaii’s economic downturn. The Honolulu-based company said it earned $32.8 million in the period, up from $18.4 million in the same three months last year, while revenue slipped to $524 million from $558 million. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii counts 173 new coronavirus cases, all on Oahu. The state Department of Health reported 173 new coronavirus cases today, all on Oahu, bringing the statewide total since the outbreak began to 2,763. Star-Advertiser.

The Latest: 173 New Cases. The state Department of Health reported 173 new COVID-19 cases today. All are on Oahu and reflects another triple-digit day of new infections. Hawaii Public Radio.


Oahu

Majority of Honolulu Council Seats Open, Election Could Set City's Future Direction. Five of the nine Honolulu City Council seats are up for grabs and the city’s next four years hinges on this election. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘A few’ employees at Manoa McDonalds have COVID-19, company confirms. Multiple employees at the Manoa McDonalds have tested positive for COVID-19. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii sheriff tests positive for COVID-19. A deputy sheriff for the Hawaii Department of Public Safety has tested positive for COVID-19, representing the first department employee confirmed to have the virus. Star-Advertiser.

Deputy Sheriff Tests Positive for COVID-19 on O‘ahu. A deputy sheriff with Hawai‘i Department of Safety has tested positive for COVID-19, officials announced Wednesday. Big Island Now.

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52 WWII vets expected for end-of-war commemoration on Oahu as virus worries mount. With a Japanese helicopter destroyer, the battleship Missouri and USS Arizona Memorial behind them, officials announced Wednesday that 52 World War II veterans plan to attend events on Oahu marking the 75th anniversary of the end of the deadliest conflict in human history. Star-Advertiser.

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Ship returns from Great Pacific Garbage Patch with 67 tons of plastic trash. In the fierce midday sun at Kewalo Basin Harbor Wednesday, elephantine mounds of algae-wrapped, tar-stained, red and yellow cordage, poison-green fishing nets and bleached consumer plastics in various stages of decay were being unloaded from the weatherbeaten hull of the tall-masted cargo ship KWAI, which had returned to Honolulu that morning with its hold bearing 67 tons of marine trash collected from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch during 35 days at sea. Star-Advertiser.

67 more tons of marine debris has been removed from the Pacific. Environmentalists chipping away at the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch” returned to land Wednesday after 35 days at sea. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Council passes construction code: New framework makes one permit for building, electric, plumbing and energy codes. Factory-built housing will continue to be allowed in Hawaii County’s new construction code, but with extra restrictions following a unanimous vote Wednesday by the County Council after a protracted discussion. West Hawaii Today.

Council approves conservation tax incentive measure. The Hawaii County Council on Wednesday unanimously approved a bill to provide tax incentives for property owners to set aside land for conservation purposes. Tribune-Herald.

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Five Hawaii Fire Department personnel sidelined after battalion chief tests positive for COVID-19. The battalion chief was headquartered at the Waikoloa Fire Station and asymptomatic at the time of testing. West Hawaii Today.

HFD Battalion Chief Tests Positive for COVID-19. A Hawai‘i Fire Department Battalion Chief assigned to the 2nd Battalion headquartered at the Waikoloa Fire Station has tested positive for COVID-19. Big Island Now.

Traveling Physician, Nurse Meant For KCH Test Positive For Coronavirus. Two traveling healthcare professionals meant for employment at Kona Community Hospital have tested positive for coronavirus. Big Island Now.

Maui

South Maui affordable housing project heading to full council. Kilohana Makai plans 28 single-family homes near Keawakapu Beach in Kihei. Maui News.

Maui Police Officer Death Investigation Underway. An investigation is underway into the death of a 44-year-old male officer with the Maui Police Department. Maui Now.

Maui-built bio lab prepares for second launch in 2021. Mobile SpaceLab was launched in February and returned in April. A mobile space lab designed and largely fabricated in Central Maui successfully returned from orbit in April, and now the team of engineers and biologists are preparing for its second mission to continue conducting experiments on the International Space Station. Maui News.


Kauai

COVID quarantine violation in Wainiha. Kaua‘i police arrested 64-year-old Michael Rowan of Wainiha on Tuesday for violating Hawai‘i’s 14-day quarantine emergency rules pertaining to COVID-19. Garden Island.

Finding solutions for eroded path. The county is considering four possible courses of action to address erosion on the multi-use Ke Ala Hele Makalae path for a section at Lydgate Park. Garden Island.

Lanai

Oahu workers who went to Lanai positive for virus. Pulama Lana‘i employees who may have been exposed now in quarantine Maui News.

Hawaii Supreme Court rules for Hawaiians in homelands case, Gender X driver's licenses available, Senate panel nixes aid package to shipper Young Brothers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian man with children at Lalakea ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Supreme Court rules state must pay Native Hawaiians damages. The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of Native Hawaiians seeking damages over decades of waiting for homestead leases. KHON2.

Justices fault state for mismanaging Hawaiian land trust. The Hawaii Supreme Court issued a stinging rebuke Tuesday to the state for what the justices unanimously called wrongful conduct that has resulted in the state’s failure to reduce a growing wait list of Native Hawaiians seeking homesteads. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Supreme Court rules in favor of Hawaiian homelands beneficiaries. After more than two decades, there’s a new ruling over the lengthy Department of Hawaiian Homelands wait list. It could mean the state pays tens of millions of dollars to beneficiaries. Hawaii News Now.

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State forges ahead with plan to reopen tourism with testing, despite potential loophole. The plan to relax quarantine restrictions and reopen Hawaii’s tourism industry starts in about a month, but many say a big loophole still exists. Hawaii News Now.

Lots Of Questions Surround Hawaii’s Pre-Travel Testing Program. The proposal requires travelers get a COVID-19 test at least three days before departing for Hawaii, creating concerns about who would provide the testing. Civil Beat.

Travel officials work on messaging campaign to inform visitors of state rules. Officials in the tourism industry have about a month to prepare a communication plan for out-of-state visitors to inform them of the changes to the quarantine rules, as the state moves forward with plans to get visitors tested for COVID-19 before they visit.  KHON2.

Hawaii residents OK with shopping, not so much with gyms, survey finds. A statewide survey by SMS Research & Marketing Service Inc. released Tuesday found a plurality of respondents — 46% — having visited shopping centers; a much more wait-and-see attitude was expressed toward other services and activities such as hair salons, sit-down restaurants and gyms. Star-Advertiser.

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Gender neutral option available for state credentials beginning July 1. The Hawaii Department of Transportation announced that on July 1, 2020, there is a new gender option for State Identification cards, driver’s licenses, and commercial driver’s licenses. KITV4.

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Legislation stalls to aid interisland cargo firm Young Brothers. Hawaii’s regulated interisland ocean cargo transportation monopoly is still treading water after a fizzled effort to provide the company, Young Brothers LLC, with public aid. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers take up bailout bills as Young Brothers container mishap investigation continues. As the investigation into the loss of cargo containers from a Young Brothers barge transiting to Hilo Harbor continued Tuesday, so did efforts to keep the 120-year-old shipper afloat. West Hawaii Today.

12 of 21 shipping containers still missing. More than half of the containers that fell from a Young Brothers barge north of Hilo last week remain unaccounted for and another sunk as the investigation into the incident continues. Tribune-Herald.

Cargo Containers Removed From Hilo Bay. The US Coast Guard continues its investigation into 21 cargo containers that slipped off the Ho Omaka Hou barge in Hilo Bay on Monday, June 22. Big Island Video News.

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Student Press Freedom Bill Dies In Committee. A bill strengthening Hawaii student journalists’ First Amendment protections was near crossing the finish line. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers again move forward on ban of large-capacity rifle magazines. A proposed ban on large- capacity rifle magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition is back on track to pass at the state Capitol despite resistance from dozens of gun owners and despite concerns raised by the state attorney general that the ban as proposed is probably unenforceable. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines adds more neighbor island flights. Hawaiian Airlines is increasing neighbor island flights starting Thursday, and again after July 4 to provide more options during the upcoming holiday. KHON2.

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Close to 90% of Hawaii’s COVID-19 patients have recovered at home. Statewide, there are 244 intensive care beds. As of Tuesday, 48% were occupied, mostly by non-COVID patients. Meanwhile, 10% of the state’s 459 ventilators are in use. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii records 18 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 917. Hawaii saw 18 new coronavirus cases today as the statewide total number of infections since the start of the outbreak rose to 917, state Department of Health officials said in their daily midday count. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 30: 18 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Most of the new cases were on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Tuesday, June 30: 18 New Cases. The State of Hawaiʻi reports 18 newly reported cases of COVID-19 statewide, with most of the new cases identified on Oʻahu. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday announced plans to revitalize Chinatown, as well as new initiatives to make it cleaner and safer so that people will visit the neighborhood again. Star-Advertiser.

To woo customers back, city announces Chinatown beautification plan.  Mayor Kirk Caldwell wants to clean up Chinatown ― again. On Tuesday, he announced several new initiatives to help bring people and business back to the historic neighborhood. Hawaii News Now.

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Candidate running for public office claims he's exempt from quarantine, falsely arrested. 61-year-old Michael J. "Kilomana" Danner is running for State Representative of District 49 as a Republican candidate, but two arrests in the past two weeks may have tainted his resume. KITV4.

2 returning Oahu residents arrested for allegedly violating state’s mandatory quarantine. State officials said two Oahu men, both of whom recently returned from trips out of state, are the latest to be arrested for allegedly violating Hawaii’s mandatory, 14-day quarantine. Star-Advertiser.

Two Returning O‘ahu Residents Arrested for Quarantine Violations. A Kaneʻohe man and a Mililani man are the latest people to be arrested by Special Agents from the Department of the Attorney General Investigations Division for violating the state’s current mandatory traveler quarantine. Maui Now.

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Lawmakers on the House Finance committee voted to save the state's only work furlough program for women. Earlier in June, the Department of Public Safety announced it would end the program at YWCA Fernhurst due to budget cuts because of the COVID-19 pandemic. KITV4.

New Complex Area Superintendents For Kauai, Oahu’s West Side. In total, three veteran complex area superintendents are retiring from DOE. Civil Beat.

To help keep virus out and residents safe, a senior living facility turns to tech. At One Kalakaua Senior Living in Makiki, there are strict protocols in place to protect more than 100 staff and nearly 190 residents. The facility also says it’s the first to install high-tech devices with two-levels of screening. Hawaii News Now.

Pedestrians In Hawaii Need More Space. Here’s How To Give It To Them. COVID-19 has more Honolulu residents out walking. ‘Quick Build’ projects could keep it that way. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Feds indict 3 former HCCC guards in beating of former inmate. A federal grand jury indicted three former guards at Hawaii Community Correctional Center for allegedly assaulting an inmate housed at the Hilo jail and attempting to cover up their misconduct. Tribune-Herald.

3 former Hawaii island correctional officers charged for 2015 attack on inmate. Three former correctional officers at Hawaii Community Correctional Center have been charged with assaulting an inmate in 2015 and attempting to cover it up. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Corrections Officers Indicted For Assault Of Inmate. The defendants are expected to appear before a federal judge Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Former corrections officers indicted for allegedly assaulting a Hilo inmate. An indictment by a federal grand jury has been unsealed in the case of three former corrections officers accused of assaulting an inmate, then trying to cover it up. Hawaii News Now.

Three former corrections officers face federal charges. Three former corrections officers are facing federal charges after prosecutors say they assaulted an inmate. KHON2.

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Kaleikini gets tepid endorsement from Senate panel: Hawaiian Homes Commission appointee confirmation proceeds to full Senate. After grilling Michael Kaleikini for about an hour, the Senate Hawaiian Affairs Committee on Tuesday agreed to recommend his confirmation to the Hawaiian Homes Commission to the full Senate. West Hawaii Today.

Kaleikini Nomination To Hawaiian Homes Commission Advances. Mike Kaleikini, a Puna Geothermal Venture executive who is well known in the local business community, will fill the East Hawaiʻi commission seat previously held by Wally Ishibashi. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Tropical Plantation Announces Indefinite Closure. The Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapū announced this morning its indefinite closure amid ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui Now.

Popular Maui visitor attraction closes .... with dim hopes for reopening. The Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu Valley announced Tuesday that it has closed indefinitely. Hawaii News Now.

$10 Per Week Summer Youth Program Offered for Working Families in Maui County. The County of Maui announced a summer youth program in partnership with Maui Family YMCA that begins next Monday, July 6, 2020. Maui Now.

Possible detonation of ordnance off Molokini is raising concerns. State DLNR, DOH asks for public to be patient, informed. Environmentalists, community members and lawmakers have expressed concern over the handling of unexploded WWII ordnance off Molokini and are opposed to detonating the devices in place for fear of possible irreversible damage to coral reefs, ocean life and the island itself. Maui News.

Kauai

Federal money for Kaua‘i Bus. The Kaua‘i Bus has received just over $4 million in federal money as part of a virus-related relief initiative aimed at rural transit operations and maintenance expenses. Garden Island.

Hokuala, Timbers Resort reopen today. Just in time for the long Fourth of July weekend, the Timbers Resort and the Ocean Course at Hokuala announced its opening, effective today. Garden Island.

Public workers seek hazard pay, 2nd COVID-19 victim dies, Supreme Court balks at mass inmate release, masks urged for Honolulu residents, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii roadwork ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Public Workers Want Hazard Pay During Coronavirus Pandemic. Public sector leaders are also criticizing Gov. David Ige for what they see as shoddy communication and coordination during the crisis. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers push for ‘shovel-ready’ projects to give economy badly needed lift. Lawmakers have made public a long list of state construction projects worth $1.57 billion that state departments believe are “shovel ready” so that construction can start quickly to give the economy a badly needed lift. Star-Advertiser.

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2nd Hawaii resident dies as statewide coronavirus cases continue to mount. An Oahu woman who was hospitalized after contracting the coronavirus died last night, state health officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Reports Second Death And 27 New COVID-19 Cases. With more than 20 new cases of the coronavirus reported each day, Hawaii could see its infection numbers surpass 300 this weekend. Civil Beat.

State reports second coronavirus-related death in Hawaii. The state Health Department has confirmed a second coronavirus-related death in Hawaii as the total number of cases swell by 27 to 285. Hawaii News Now.

State records second death from COVID-19. Little is known about the second death of a Hawaii resident from the COVID-19 coronavirus. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii COVID-19 Update: Second Death Reported, Cases Up To 285. The State of Hawaiʻi reports 18 cumulative cases of COVID-19 on Hawaiʻi Island, while Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense says there have been 22. Big Island Video News.

DOH Confirms Second COVID-19 Related Death. The Department of Health is confirming a second death of an adult on O‘ahu who tested positive for COVID-19. The individual was hospitalized and died last night. Big Island Now.

Second COVID-19 death reported in state, cases rise to 285. On Thursday, the state reported 27 new cases of the novel coronavirus, bringing its total to 285, with one additional case on Maui, moving the county from 26 to 27. Maui News.

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Hawaii Supreme Court assigns judge to oversee prisoner releases to combat coronavirus spread. Former state Intermediate Court of Appeals Judge Daniel R. Foley on Thursday was appointed by the Hawaii Supreme Court to serve as the special master tasked with sifting through the complex issue of releasing jailed inmates amid concerns about the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. Star-Advertiser.

Special Master Appointed To Recommend On COVID-19 Jail Releases. Meanwhile, one person at the Oahu jail is being tested for COVID-19 with results still pending. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Supreme Court: No mass inmate release. There will be no immediate mass release of inmates from county jails under a Hawaii Supreme Court order published Thursday, but intermittent inmates will be released while a special master studies the situation more fully. West Hawaii Today.

No COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii Prisons, Inmate Population Reduced. From March 2 to April 2, "there has been a substantial decrease in the jail population", reports the Hawaiʻi Department of Public Safety. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Gets First $12 Million In Grants From Historic Coronavirus Relief Deal. The money can be used to address affordable housing for some of the state’s most vulnerable populations, including the homeless, low-income and those diagnosed with HIV and AIDS. Civil Beat.


More Groups Call On Ige To Bring Transparency Back Into Government. The Hawaii governor suspended state laws that allow citizens access to public meetings and records while officials struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Civil Beat.

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Board of Ed Waives High School Graduation Requirements. Seniors in good standing through the third quarter will receive a high school diploma. Civil Beat.

Board approves request to modify high school graduation requirements. The state Board of Education on Thursday unanimously voted to approve a request to modify high school graduation and commencement requirements for the graduating class of 2020, allowing the state Department of Education “to move forward with finalizing a graduation plan that principals, complex area and state leadership have been developing over the past two weeks,” the DOE said in a news release. Tribune-Herald.

Board Unanimously Approves Request to Modify Hawai‘i Graduation Requirements. Maui Now.

Hawaii public schools try to bridge digital divide by sharing laptops. Hawaii’s public schools have begun lending computers to students who don’t have them at home, and teachers are helping students get back on track with online and written assignments as well as projects. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii House Offices Closed Through April 30. Lawmakers and staff were told to work at home. Civil Beat.

Why The Coronavirus Outbreak Could Make Hawaii's Doctor Shortage Worse. The state is scrambling to identify enough medical professionals to care for a potential surge of coronavirus patients in Hawaii. However, some doctors are concerned that the outbreak will further worsen the state's long-standing physician shortage. Hawaii Public Radio.

HMSA waiving all copayments for COVID-19 related treatment. The Hawai'i Medical Service Association is waiving all copayments for COVID-19 related treatments and services. KITV4.

Nearly 25% Of Hawaii's Workers Apply For Unemployment. Nearly one-quarter of Hawaii's workers applied for unemployment benefits last month as social distancing measures to slow the spread of the coronavirus socked the economy. Associated Press.

New duties keep Hawaii tourism employees working. Tens of thousands of jobs have been lost in Hawaii’s visitor industry, but employees of the state agency charged with managing “tourism for the benefit of the Hawaiian Islands” and its main marketing contractor haven’t taken a hit. Star-Advertiser.

Chamber of Commerce Hawaii asks state to suspend taxes via online petition. The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii has launched an online petition asking the state to help businesses that are struggling financially due to COVID-19 disruptions. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii Democrats On ‘Leading Edge’ In Picking POTUS. The local party is conducting its presidential primary by mail-in voting and asking voters to rank candidates in order of preference. Civil Beat.

After Opening Restrooms During Pandemic, Widespread Vandalism Reported. The DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation says small boat harbor restrooms need community support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Video News.

Harbor Bathrooms Trashed Statewide. DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation bathrooms are being trashed across the state. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Oahu residents urged to wear masks outside after Hawaii marks its second coronavirus death. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is urging Oahu residents to wear a mask every time they go out in public to stop the rapid spread of the new coronavirus on the densely populated island with the vast majority of Hawaii’s cases. Star-Advertiser.

5 homeless people come to Oahu during coronavirus pandemic. Five homeless people from the mainland — including a couple with family on Oahu — arrived in Honolulu over the last 10 days, perhaps drawn by cheap airfares. Star-Advertiser.

Firefighters ordered to stay home after being exposed to coronavirus. A Honolulu Fire Department firefighter who was infected by the new coronavirus may have transmitted the disease to another firefighter at the Kalihi Uka firehouse while he was still asymptomatic, a city official said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam confirms COVID-19 cases but details silenced by Pentagon. Leaders with Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam say there are COVID cases at the intallation, but the Pentagon says military operations cannot publicly release specific numbers to protect operational security. Hawaii News Now.

Coast Guard member assigned to Honolulu-based cutter Midgett has coronavirus. A Coast Guard member assigned to the Honolulu-based cutter Midgett tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, Chief Sara Muir, deputy public affairs officer for District 14, said today. Star-Advertiser.

This Startup Is Trying To Ease The Ventilator Shortage in Hawaii. A former Harvard Medical School professor is teaming up with local engineers who have designed products for firms like Apple, Google and Tesla. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Jobless claims soar on Big Island, nationwide. The numbers of first-time Big Island unemployment claims filings have skyrocketed in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus epidemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hospital treats 1st case. COVID-19 patient in isolation at MMMC. Maui Memorial Medical Center is treating its first COVID-19 patient in one of its isolation rooms, hospital operator Maui Health System reported Wednesday. Maui News.

Farmers adjust from growing for eateries to public. Groups like HFUU are helping create distribution pipeline. The Hawaii Farmers Union United, local farmers and stores are working to maintain that pipeline from the fields to the dinner table. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai continues checkpoint stops; KPD Chief promises further action if high traffic volume continues. Checkpoints will continue to be conducted at various times and locations to deter people from traveling and spreading the virus within the community, the Kauai Police Department said in a news release. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 rules confuse homeowner. Uncertainty about whether housekeepers are essential businesses perplexes property owner. Garden Island.

Molokai

Maui confirms 1st known case of coronavirus for Molokai. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said in a news release that a Molokai man who has a history of travel to Las Vegas tested positive for the virus. Star-Advertiser.

Moloka‘i Resident Hospitalized on O‘ahu with COVID-19. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino issued a statement this evening saying the adult male had possible travel history and is currently hospitalized on Oʻahu. Maui Now.

Molokai man tests positive for COVID-19. Maui County officials confirmed on April 2 that a Molokai resident tested positive for COVID-19. KHON2.

Hawaii Supreme Court weighs in on Honolulu council race, complaint filed over GOP campaign finance, media weigh in on top 2018 stories, new laws for 2019, more top state and local government news from all the Hawaiian islands

Diamond Head aerial view ©2018 All Hawaii News

No fishing at Waikiki to Diamond Head shoreline in 2019. Environmental advocates like the idea of a closure, but think the time frame needs to be longer for it to be effective. KITV.

More than two years after Gov. David Ige’s administration unveiled a 10-year, $378 million plan to escalate the state’s fight against invasive species, much of it remains unfunded and the governor plans to ask the Legislature to provide only a fraction of what was envisioned for the next two fiscal years. Star-Advertiser.

A longtime critic of the Hawaii Republican Party is alleging top state GOP leaders violated federal campaign spending laws by illegally funneling excess contributions to Cam Cavasso during his campaign for the U.S. House this year, but Republican Party Chairwoman Shirlene Ostrov says the party assistance to the Cavasso campaign was legal. Star-Advertiser.

A new law that goes into effect Tuesday aims to put a tighter leash on dog owners who fraudulently try to pass their pets off as service animals. Star-Advertiser.

With the 2018 hurricane season now behind us, the state has mailed out surveys to some Hawaii residents asking how prepared they are to face a major hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Ceded Lands Revenue Debate Simmers At Capitol. Big Island Video News.

Ahi prices are up as tradition is coming at a higher cost. KHON2.

The year that was 2018 might best be known in Hawaii for its explosions — the ones that did happen and the big one that didn’t. Star-Advertiser.

As the year comes to an end, Hawaii News Now takes a look back at the impressive and unforgettable stories of 2018 in this digital documentary. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser photographers pick their photos of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State Supreme Court to decide fate of City Council race with razor-thin win. Nearly eight weeks after the general election, one of the closest races still hasn’t officially been decided. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Supreme Court says elections of Ozawa, Fevella uncertified. On Friday, the five Justices ordered state and city election officials to provide the following to Waters and LoPresti: information setting forth the margin of error for the electronic vote counting machines when applying the tabulation procedures, and -information setting forth how the intent of the voter is ensured in a close election without a hand count. KHON2.

Impeachment Waits While City Considers Paying Kaneshiro’s Legal Fees. A judge puts the case on hold to give the City Council time to decide if taxpayers must provide the prosecuting attorney with a lawyer. Civil Beat.

The petition to oust Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is being described as uncharted waters. KHON2.

A new report by Honolulu Auditor Edwin Young concludes that a ban on foam or polystyrene food containers on Oahu would not reduce litter on the island, but would negatively affect some smaller businesses. Star-Advertiser.

More than 100,000 residents and visitors are expected to view the annual Fireworks by Grucci display that will begin at 11:55 p.m. tonight from a barge in waters off Waikiki Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Leilani Estates residents are giving up on a lawsuit they filed against Hawaii County that would have returned a security checkpoint to the neighborhood devastated by lava. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council is being asked to add projects related to damage caused by recent disasters to the capital budget and accept funds for a recovery plan for Puna. Tribune-Herald.

The partial closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park does not appear to be keeping tourists away from Volcano, to the relief of businesses that depend on them. Tribune-Herald.

With a new year just around the corner, improvements at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole continue. West Hawaii Today.

Aloha, 2018! The Tribune-Herald’s top stories of the year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Fate of Fong land in Keokea now up in the air. Dispute over water meters, subdivision puts Grandma’s site in question. Maui News.

Applications and proposals for a recycling grant program through the county Department of Environmental Management are being accepted for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. Maui News.

A project to honor Maui County’s Mayors and Managing Directors was unveiled Thursday afternoon featuring a Wall of Mayors and a Wall of Managing Directors on the 9th Floor of the County Building in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO, will be the keynote speaker at the Jan. 15 meeting of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Top 10 stories: A look back at 2018. Garden Island.

Supreme Court grills advocates on education tax amendment, Hirono approval drops, Honolulu building permits lag, regents approve new Mauna Kea rules, $40k fine for killing nene, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court building ©2018 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Supreme Court hears arguments on proposed constitutional amendment. The Hawaii Supreme Court is expected to rule quickly after hearing oral arguments Thursday on whether a question on general election ballots asking voters if they want to give the state the power to tax investment property to support public education should be invalidated. Star-Advertiser.

Supreme Court Hears Challenge To ConAm Ballot Measure But Defers Ruling. Hawaii’s county governments hope the court will act quickly to invalidate the measure that would allow the state to tax property for education. Civil Beat.

Supreme Court hears oral arguments on controversial constitutional amendment question. State Attorney General Russell Suzuki conceded Thursday that a controversial constitutional amendment to raise investment property taxes for education could lead to higher taxes for residential homeowners in the future. Hawaii News Now.

A controversial ballot question rests in the hands of the Hawaii Supreme Court justices. They heard arguments Thursday on whether the state should be allowed to collect property taxes for education. KHON2.

Counties, state argue before Hawaii Supreme Court on constitutional amendment to tax property for schools. Pacific Business News.

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What does a blank vote mean? The yes votes have to be 50 percent or more of all ballots cast. KHON2.

The ConCon’s Real Price Tag? That’s Still A Mystery. An opposition ad puts the cost at $55 million. But that assumes unprecedented full public funding of campaigns for hundreds of delegate candidates. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Poll: Hirono Approval Rating Still High Despite Kavanaugh Backlash. Moderates and conservatives have a dimmer view of the Hawaii senator after her pointed criticisms of the Supreme Court justice during his confirmation. Civil Beat.

Hawaii High Court Weighs Whether To Release Secret Investigation Of State Auditor. Justices appeared concerned about the state’s argument that attorney-client privilege protects the Legislature from releasing the report. Civil Beat.

Commentary: The Senate Confirms Judges, So Why Is The House Butting In? Were House leaders looking to mess with the governor when they interviewed Keith Hiraoka, his choice for the state Intermediate Court of Appeals? Civil Beat.

Five OHA seats up for grabs this election. Five open seats amid public scrutiny of how OHA trustees spend their allowances and the embarrassing leak of a scathing audit. KITV.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate ticked up in September to a one-year high of 2.2 percent amid further evidence that the state’s economic growth is slowing. Star-Advertiser.

Unite Here Local 5, the union representing 2,700 striking hotel workers on Oahu and Maui, accused Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts on Thursday of more unfair labor practices at its Marriott-managed hotels. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council bill would address lengthy building permit times. A bill requiring the city to process less complicated building permits within 60 days won preliminary approval from a City Council committee Thursday after a parade of builders, contractors, engineers and architects aired complaints about how the delays are hurting their businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Workers, homeowners frustrated by building permit backlog push for change. KHON2.

City Pushes for Monster Home Crackdown While Streamlining Building Permits. Hawaii Public Radio.

New law cracks down on contractors violating stop-work orders. The law comes after complaints that contractors are doing work on homes without a permit and when ordered to stop, they just keep on working despite getting fined. KHON2.

Surprise Eviction Notices Have This Old Plantation Community Up In Arms. State Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz and a state agency are aggressively moving ahead with development plans for Central Oahu’s Whitmore Village. Civil Beat.

Honolulu ranks high on yet another list — this time for the worst roads. Drivers spend an average of roughly $850 a year in repairs, a new report says. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii at Manoa to raise parking rates starting next year. The Board of Regents on Thursday approved new rates that will be phased in over six years starting next fall.  Star-Advertiser.

UH Students And Staff Will Pay For $35 Million In Parking Garage Repairs. Parking rate increases will be phased in over the next six years in a plan approved by the Board of Regents. Civil Beat.

Hawaii State Public Library hasn't had any major upgrades in 26 years. KHON2.

Grand jury indicts janitor accused of molesting teen student in Kaneohe. Records indicate the alleged assault happened after a ‘fun fair’ at the campus. Hawaii News Now.

Utah developer buys site for third hotel in Kapolei. Utah-based Garn Development Co. LLC has closed on the purchase of a 2.64-acre lot within the 40-acre Leihano development where it plans to build the city of Kapolei’s third limited-service hotel. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents unanimously agreed Thursday to allow the university to revise its proposed rules for Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

UH taking another step toward better managing Mauna Kea. UH Board of Regents approved a request to revise to UH's proposed administrative rules. KITV.

Draft EA for proposed Honomu ag project done. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has completed a draft environmental assessment for its proposed Honomu agricultural homestead community and will host a meeting next week about the project. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Village Resort eyes 2021 reopening. The Kona Village Resort could potentially reopen in 2021, a decade after sustaining heavy damage from the 2011 tsunami. West Hawaii Today.

The County of Hawaii is in the process of revamping its website. The county seeks the public’s feedback on the site to make it useful, user-friendly and exciting. Big Island Now.

Maui

Councilors loath to swap site in Wailuku for bus hub. Some members of a Maui County Council committee expressed reluctance to part with the old Wailuku Post Office site as part of a proposed lease exchange for a new Maui Bus hub on state land in Kahului. Maui News.

Proposed changes to special management area permits and the shoreline area designation that account for rising sea levels will be presented to a County Council committee and the Maui Planning Commission. Maui News.

Maui Gas Prices Up Again. In Kahului, the average price was $4.15, which is three cents higher than last Thursday, eight cents higher than on this date last month and 63 cents higher than on this date a year ago. Maui Now.

Maui Chamber to Hold Emergency Preparedness Classes. Maui Now.

Kauai

A part-time Kauai resident must pay more than $40,000 in fines for fatally shooting four nene geese with a pellet gun near his home in Koloa last year. Star-Advertiser.

A part-time Koloa resident was ordered Tuesday to pay more than $40,000 in fines for shooting endangered nene. Garden Island.

Judge orders Kauai man to pay upwards of $40K for shooting at nene birds. The 72-year-old used a pellet gun to kill four nene birds. Hawaii News Now.

Man to pay more than $40,000 in fines for shooting at nene. KHON2.

Part-time Kauai resident fined over $40K for fatally shooting nene geese. Steven Cookson was convicted of five misdemeanor state charges. KITV.

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Kauai Bus users will see schedule changes to improve services starting Monday. Garden Island.

Appellate court nominee has Kauai ties. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court to hear education tax amendment, woman from same-sex marriage must pay child support, gubernatorial debate set, USS Arizona tours resume, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court building ©2018 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments later this month from the state’s four counties seeking to invalidate a Nov. 6 ballot question asking voters if they want to empower the state to tax investment properties in support of public education. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court took the unusual step Thursday of scheduling oral arguments in connection with a request by the state’s four counties to consider their petition for an order invalidating a constitutional amendment on the Nov. 6 ballot. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday granted a request by the state’s four counties to schedule an oral argument on whether a proposed constitutional amendment on next month’s ballot allowing the Legislature to place a “surcharge” on investment property to support public education is unclear and misleading. Pacific Business News.

Battle over constitutional amendment heats up as state’s highest court to hear challenge. The two sides held dueling news conferences to make their case. Hawaii News Now.

General Election bill: Help schooling, or affect all property tax payers? As it stand now, Hawaii voters will see a question on their general election ballot that will read, "Shall the legislature be authorized to establish, as provided by law, a surcharge on investment real property to be used to support public education?" KITV.

Ad Watch: TV Spots Attack Constitutional Amendment For School Taxes. The Affordable Hawaii Coalition is airing two ads saying the proposal to raise certain property taxes for education is flawed. Civil Beat.

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Woman from same-sex marriage obligated to pay child support, court rules. A woman whose spouse gave birth during their marriage is the legal parent of the child and must pay child support after the couple divorced, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled today. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates for governor, lieutenant governor to debate live on KHON2. "Hawaii's Debate" on Monday, Oct. 15, at 9 p.m. will feature major gubernatorial candidates, Democrat David Ige and Republican Andria Tupola, and will air live on KHON2 and online at khon2.com. The debate will be moderated by KHON2's Gina Mangieri. KHON2.

Should Public Have More Input On Legislature’s Sexual Harassment Policies? Critics say more people should get to weigh in on developing the new recommendations and the process should be more transparent. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Voters Need To Know Sooner Who’s Paying To Influence Them. The Legislature should require greater transparency for campaign finance reports. Right now candidates don’t have to file them until eight days before the election. Civil Beat.

Far fewer people in Hawaii failed workplace drug tests in the third quarter of 2018, according to results from the largest company in the state doing such work. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel Workers Strike In San Francisco But Stay On The Job In Hawaii. Employees at Marriot-affiliated hotels in the islands have also authorized a walkout over wages and working conditions. Civil Beat.

Behind Hawaiian Airline’s decision to launch its Boston nonstop route. Hawaiian is offering special roundtrip fares of $617 in the main cabin and $1,776 in first class featuring to celebrate the new service, which will be operated by Hawaiian's Airbus A330 aircraft. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Boat tours of Pearl Harbor’s former Battleship Row will resume this morning following a five-day stop after the floating shoreside dock sank at the USS Arizona Memorial visitor center last weekend. Star-Advertiser.

Boat tours around the USS Arizona memorial will resume Friday. On Sunday, park officials announced they were suspending the tours because they discovered the dock used to load visitors onto the boats was sinking. KHON2.

‘He betrayed my trust’: Victim in case against ex-Kamehameha Schools teacher takes the stand. The former teacher and debate coach is charged with five counts of invasion of privacy. Hawaii News Now.

Men gather to raise awareness against violence. “Family secrets, fear and old pain” are a few of the core issues that can develop into violence, said 48-year-old Kaimana Apo, a former perpetrator of domestic violence. Star-Advertiser.

Men of all ages and from a range of backgrounds took time to take a stand against violence. KITV.

Hawaii Island

The disarray at the county Mass Transit Agency continues with the resignation of Administrator Maria “Sole” Aranguiz. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council doesn’t want the Big Island to be known as the hand-me-down island and is asking the Mass Transit Administration to quit accepting used buses from other counties. West Hawaii Today.


No work on restoring Puna Geothermal Venture can begin until at least Dec. 1 after Gov. David Ige extended his emergency proclamation for the fourth time earlier this week. Tribune-Herald.

After sustaining considerable damage from thousands of earthquakes, Highway 11 near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will undergo repairs throughout the weekend and next week. Tribune-Herald.

A new roundtable committee that aims to address noise caused by commercial helicopters is seemingly close to being established, nearly two months after its creation was announced at a community meeting on the issue. Tribune-Herald.

There is no active lava to be seen anywhere on Hawaii Island, at the moment, but that’s not stopping county officials from going forward with a plan to create a lava viewing area in the vicinity of the lower East Rift Zone eruption in Puna. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Carroll laid up since late August, to return Oct. 15. Maui County Council Member Robert Carroll is in “recovery mode” at home in Hana following major surgery in late August. Maui News.

Maui Drive-Thru Voter Registration, Oct. 9. Maui Now.

Kauai

It could be another year before you’ll see the ancient waterways and picturesque landscapes out at Stone Dam, part of the 4.5-mile Wai Koa Loop Trail on Kauai’s North Shore. Garden Island.

Delayed by poor weather, road resurfacing work in Haiku will restart next week, the county Department of Public Works said. Maui News.

Six businesses at Kukui Grove Center are seeking prospective employees at the Career Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday throughout the mall. Garden Island.

Pacific Media Group Expands to Kauai, Acquires KONG Radio Group. Pacific Media Group today announced the purchase of KONG Radio Group on the island of Kauai from Ohana Broadcast Company, LLC–including stations KQNG 93.5 FM, KSHK “Shaka” 103.1 FM, KSRF 95.9 FM and KUAI 570 AM (and 104.5 FM translator). Maui Now.