Tourism funding threatened, staff shortages impact hospitality and travel, monster homes irk Honolulu, Maui residents, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii volcano at night PC: Janice Wei

Tourism funding again under threat. The Hawaii Tourism Authority’s future is uncertain again. Gov. David Ige has announced his intent to veto House Bill 1147 — the eleventh-­hour solution that state legislators cobbled together at the end of the session to save the agency’s $60 million annual budget. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Lack of workers affecting hospitality and travel. Airlines and travel officials are expecting a busier Fourth of July weekend and summer travel season compared to last year, but the shortage of workers continues to be an issue. KHON2.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Visitor Spending Contributed $117 Million To Local Economy. The National Park Service says a new report finds 2021 spending supported 1,220 jobs mostly in lodging, recreation and transportation. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Anti-vape advocates, tobacco industry applaud Gov. Ige's plan to veto flavored product bill. House Bill 1570 proposes banning flavored tobacco products, including menthol. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s small businesses grapple with rising costs, staffing shortages. National chains are better able to weather the current challenges — including ability to pay a rising minimum wage — than small mom-and-pop shops, according to Tina Yamaki, president of the Retail Merchants of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Agriculture Board endorses plan to import millions of mosquitoes to save imperiled birds. The state Board of Agriculture on Tuesday gave the green light to the release of tens of millions of mosquitoes into the wild as part of a plan to help save Hawaii’s endangered forest birds. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Liquor Commission Run Amok? Bar Owners Complaints Are Leading To Change. Bar owners struggled amidst strict restrictions during the pandemic. Now they hope city officials can implement reforms to the Honolulu Liquor Commission. Civil Beat.

City says bacteria levels drop following treated wastewater discharge on West Oahu beaches. An undisclosed problem at the Honouliuli Wastewater Treatment Plant last Thursday led to excessive discharge of treated wastewater along the Ewa coastline. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Neighbors react to city shutting down Kaimukī 'monster home.' But what's next? Earlier this month, the city's Department of Planning and Permitting revoked three building permits, and issued a stop work order for 3615 Sierra Drive. Officials say the project violates the city's land use ordinance. Hawaii Public Radio.

Staffing shortages a key factor in labor dispute at Hawaii’s largest hotel. Union contracts at the Hilton Hawaiian Village are set to expire in two days and union workers are asking for help to deal with the summer travel rush. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Fire Department welcomes new accelerant detection canine. Eve, a 2-year-old Labrador retriever, is Hawaii’s only accelerant detection canine, according to HFD. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu Hunters Oppose Contraception for Pigs. Pig hunters packed the Department of Land and Natural resources board room Tuesday to speak out against the use of birth control measures on wild animals. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Higher water rates coming down the pipe. Water customers should expect a double whammy on their bills starting Friday, when planned consumption and standby charge increases coincide with an increase in the fluctuating power purchase charge. West Hawaii Today.

Water restrictions could be eased this week. There’s good news for North Kona residents worrying about the area’s drinking water supply — water restrictions could be eased as early as the end of this week. West Hawaii Today.

Judge orders document in Ireland case to be unsealed. Hilo Circuit Judge Peter Kubota on Tuesday ordered that one of two documents apparently related to post-conviction DNA testing performed in the Dana Ireland murder case be unsealed and made public. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Ag Department heads to be picked this week. Maui County’s new Agriculture Department director and deputy are expected to be announced this week by Mayor Michael Victorino as the deadline for the department to be established approaches on Friday. Maui News.

Resolution To Acquire Maui Monster House Passes Committee. The eminent domain resolution now moves to the full County Council for consideration at its July 15 meeting. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Funding, fencing on the horizon for farms, ranches hurt by axis deer. Solutions for feral ungulate control are slowly but surely taking shape as axis deer populations rapidly grow and create havoc for Maui County farmers and ranchers. Maui News.

Kauai

COVID puts damper on Kaua‘i fireworks shows. The U.S. Navy Pacific Missile Range Facility is returning with its first fireworks show since the onset of the pandemic. But due to COVID concerns, it will only be open to U.S. Department of Defense ID cardholders and their guests. Garden Island.

Tourism contract in dispute, sea level rise puts focus on coast, Pearl City teacher accused of sex assault, child porn, to remain behind bars, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki ©2022 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau files protest over tourism contract award. The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau filed a protest Tuesday alleging that the Hawaii Tourism Authority violated state procurement when awarding its largest piece of business, the U.S. brand management and global support services contract, to the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement. Star-Advertiser.

Sea Level Rise Intensifies Debate Over How Hawai‘i Uses Its Coastlines. A UH report asks decision-makers: What are the most important values and uses for the remaining oceanfront as the sea continues to rise? Hawaii Business Magazine.

Lieutenant governor candidates forum is showdown over experience. The leading candidates to become Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor were divided at a forum Tuesday between longtime politicians who argued they have the right experience versus outsiders who said current approaches are not working for Hawaii families — and have not worked for years, if not for decades. Star-Advertiser.

A measure aimed at expanding telehealth access could end up doing the opposite, critics say. There is growing debate over a bill that could significantly impact Hawaii’s mental health services. It’s called House Bill 1980 and as currently written, it would cover telehealth appointments via digital platforms such as Zoom or Facetime. However, telephone-only appointments would only be covered under certain criteria. Hawaii News Now.

Why So Many Hawaii Nurses Want To Leave The Profession. A survey released last month found that 23% of the nurses who responded had considered quitting. Civil Beat.

Department of Hawaiian Homelands to recieve $22.3 million in federal funds. The $22.3 million is the highest amount the federal government has ever appropriated for Native Hawaiian housing and is $20.3 million more than last year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council considering examining city hiring process to address high vacancy rate. The Honolulu City Council is considering auditing the Department of Human Resources to examine its selection and hiring process as the city faces filling about 3,000 vacant positions. There are about 11,600 total positions at the city. Star-Advertiser.

Economy And Housing Are Center Stage In Hot Oahu Senate Race. Carol Fukunaga hopes to defeat upstart Ian Ross in his bid for the Democratic nomination for Senate District 11. Civil Beat.

Woman Dies After Apparent Suicide At Oahu Jail. The death of Diamond Simeona-Agoo at the Oahu Community Correctional Center is the second apparent suicide in a Hawaii jail this month. Civil Beat.

Hawaii teacher accused of child sex assault, child porn crimes to remain behind bars. The Pearl City High School substitute teacher accused of having sex with a 13-year-old boy during school lunch breaks will remain behind bars at least until late July. Federal prosecutors said Tuesday that 34-year-old Alden Bunag is a danger to the community and a flight risk. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Former Navy diver describes Red Hill contamination: ‘We were up against a huge problem’. As the military tries to figure how to safely drain the Red Hill fuel tanks, a retired Navy diver who saw the contamination up close is speaking out. He describes the divers being covered in fuel in a water well, and he worries about the long-term health impacts from that operation. Hawaii News Now.

Performance center to be renamed after longtime band teacher, leader. Try as you might, you will never get Michael Nakasone to agree that he deserves the honor of having the Pearl City Cultural Center auditorium building renamed for him. Star-Advertiser.

Humane society sees increase in animal surrenders as pet owners feel inflation’s squeeze. The Hawaiian Humane Society is seeing an unprecedented number of animal surrenders and soaring need for its pet food bank ― in a situation the nonprofit worries will only get worse as costs continue to rise. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Say bye to HI-5 at Kealakehe, Waimea, Hilo transfer stations. Hawaii Island residents will no longer be able to redeem their HI-5 bottles and cans at three of the most popular transfer stations, and the continuation of redemption service at a fourth is uncertain, as contractors grapple with inflation, fuel price increases and a worker shortage stemming from the coronavirus pandemic. West Hawaii Today.

County offering subsidized van rentals for commuters. Under the program, prospective riders can coordinate with each other to select a rental vehicle and a pickup and dropoff point for their daily commutes, distributing the costs among themselves. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Judge denies county’s motion to dismiss Waipi‘o road lawsuit. Waipi‘o Valley Road remains closed to all but a handful of people, but on Tuesday, a judge ruled a civil case to reopen the road which was closed in February via an emergency declaration by Mayor Mitch Roth can proceed. Tribune-Herald. 

Anonymous Donor Gives $3M To UH Hilo And LGBTQ Students. The scholarships will support LGBTQ students and students who are the first in their family to attend college. Civil Beat.

Maui

Maui County Council Advances Resolutions On Monster House. One of the resolutions calls for a formal investigation into how the house in Napili was allowed to be built despite being in violation of numerous building codes. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi’s first case of rabbit disease found on Maui farm; quarantine ordered. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture confirmed rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus, type 2 (RHDV2) in a 4- to 5-year-old neutered male rabbit on a farm in Kula. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Kauai

Kilauea’s Hale Lea Medicine clinic may close. The Kaua‘i Community Health Alliance receives between 17,000 and 20,000 patient visits each year, providing a range of treatment to largely working-class people from the Ha‘ena to Kapa‘a. They soon may be unable to keep their doors open, their CEO says. Garden Island.

Community hosts appreciation lu‘au for Tropic Care. Tropic Care Kaua‘i 2022 is pau, until the next time. Garden Island.

LGBTQ measures advance, private school tuition climbs, House Speaker Saiki faces primary challenge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gay Pride parade in Hawaii pre-CVID ©2022 All Hawaii News

Lawmakers say 2022 legislative session was a success for LGBTQ community. Lawmakers say they want the community to know this past legislative session was a success for the LGBTQ community. They say three PRO LGBTQ bills passed out of the Capitol. KITV4.

Hawaii Moves To Improve Transgender Health Insurance Coverage. House Bill 2405, which is awaiting the governor’s signature, would prevent insurers from denying gender-affirming treatments due to “cosmetic” exclusions. Civil Beat.

Tuition at Hawaii private schools continues to climb. According to survey data from the nonprofit Hawai‘i Association for Independent Schools, the average annual tuition figures from 92 member private schools for this fall is $12,997 — 3.9% higher than last year and 28% percent higher than the $10,159 average in 2019-2020, the last full school year before the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Gun Enthusiasts Keep Winning In Court. That Could Soon Weaken Hawaii’s Strict Gun Laws. When it comes to gun violence, Hawaii is one of the safest places in the U.S. The state has among the lowest number of registered guns and gun deaths per capita, and some of the nation’s toughest gun laws. Civil Beat.

Release of altered mosquitoes is questioned. A multiagency plan to release tens of millions of imported mosquitoes into the wild to help save Hawaii’s endangered forest birds is generating fears of unintended consequences. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Tourism Authority’s contract reversal leaves longtime marketer HVCB’s future in limbo. The reversal of fortune that has left the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau with a fraction of the tens of millions of dollars in state contracts it enjoyed will become clearer Tuesday after a formal debriefing on the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s decision to award its top U.S. contract to a Native Hawaiian nonprofit. Star-Advertiser.

Rear admiral assumes command of U.S. Coast Guard 14th District. Rear Adm. Michael Day, who presided over a historic maritime mass evacuation during Sept. 11, 2001, assumed command of the U.S. Coast Guard 14th District on Friday following a change-of-command ceremony at Coast Guard Base Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Efforts to improve marine conservation receive state funding. State funding is being provided to two ocean-based efforts in Hawaii — one to help conservation in the Pupukea area on Oahu and another to promote fishing statewide. Star-Advertiser.

New law aims to reel in fishing violations. House Bill 1653, which was signed into law by Gov. David Ige on Wednesday and takes effect July 1, would create a flexible, tiered system of fines based on the type of specimen caught illegally and whether it’s first-time or repeat offense. Maui News.

New group wants corporate money out of Hawaii politics. A local political action committee is hoping a pledge to stop Hawaii’s politicians from accepting large campaign donations from lobbyists and corporations will help solve some of those problems and allow kamaaina to live more comfortably. KHON2.

Oahu

August primary to feature rematch between Hawaii House Speaker Scott Saiki, Kim Coco Iwamoto. At stake is whether Kaka­ako and Ala Moana voters will return Saiki to the House after 28 years or whether the House will get a new speaker and new leadership team in 2023. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu short-term rental owners sue city over law raising minimum stay to 90 days. The lawsuit alleges the new city ordinance, which goes into effect Oct. 23, is unconstitutional because it interferes with owners’ vested rights to own and rent property and violates state zoning law. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police might limit amount of overtime officers can work, in response to audit. Honolulu police are considering capping the amount of overtime hours officers may work and bringing back a three-days-a-week, 12-hours-a-day work schedule in response to a city audit that detailed HPD’s “ineffective” management of time-and-a-half policies from 2016 to 2020. Star-Advertiser.

Staffing Shortages At The Oahu Jail Are Raising Alarms About Safety And OT Costs. Officers at Oahu Community Correctional Center say they are exhausted from working extra shifts with more frequent lockdowns. Civil Beat.

Oahu Lifeguards Say They Need Help. But City Officials Are Stonewalling. A resolution that would let voters help chart the future course for the city Ocean Safety division has stalled in City Council chambers. Civil Beat.

Honolulu among 3 major U.S. tourist destinations to become coronavirus hot spots. The three sizable urban centers in the United States where the coronavirus is spreading fastest right now have something in common: They are major warm-weather tourist destinations. New York Times.

Iwi kupuna returned to Oahu from New Zealand museum. The remains of three Native Hawaiians, illegally taken from Oahu in 1860, found their way to New Zealand, where they were housed in the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch for more than 150 years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County Council fields set. Villegas wins reelection to Kona council seat. The primary election is still months away, but incumbent Kona Councilwoman Rebecca Villegas has already won reelection. West Hawaii Today.

State legislative races set: Incumbents win four seats without challengers. Sen. Dru Kanuha, a Democrat representing Kona’s District 3; Rep. Mark Nakashima, a Democrat representing Hamakua’s District 1, Richard Onishi, a Democrat representing Hilo’s District 2 and Nicole Lowen, a Democrat representing Kona’s District 7, will appear on their respective ballots without competition. West Hawaii Today.

Homeowner, kupuna exemptions to be considered Tuesday. Bill 182, to be taken up by the County Council Finance Committee at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, doesn’t change tax rates but would increase the value of property that would be taxed. The bill also adds two new categories for kupuna exemptions — 65 years and 75 years — while increasing the amounts exempted. West Hawaii Today.

More questions than answers regarding Naniloa hotel. The Board of Land and Natural Resources determined with some reluctance Thursday that granting a request to WHR LLC, the owner of the Naniloa, to take out a $62 million mortgage to cover its current $50 million mortgage with another lender would not be in the best interests of the state. Tribune-Herald.

Group claims Judges for Justice interfering with exoneration effort. The Hawaii Innocence Project has replied to a motion by a Seattle group seeking to unseal post-conviction DNA testing conducted on a key piece of evidence in the Dana Ireland murder, saying the leader of the group is interfering with HIP’s efforts to exonerate one of the men convicted in the case. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County mulls creation of East Maui Water Authority. Board would oversee water lease agreements; charter amendment could be put on ballot. A County Council committee is considering a charter amendment proposed by Council Member Shane Sinenci that would let voters decide whether the county should establish an East Maui Community Water Authority and Community Board. Maui News.

Campaign begins to raise $2M for fire station in Olowalu. Property and station would be turned over to Maui County once it’s been constructed. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Destination Management Action Plan approved. The plan is aimed at rebuilding, redefining and reseting the direction of tourism over a three-year period. The focus is on stabilization, recovery, and rebuilding to the desired visitor industry for each island.  Maui Now.

Tropic Care Kaua‘i is open. A medical innovative readiness training mission presented by the U.S. Department of Defense, Tropic Care Kaua‘i will be providing mobile clinics at Kilauea School from June 13 through 15, and moving to the Waimea Easter Seals facility on June 17, 18 and 20, all with the same hours as the main clinics. Garden Island.

Gas passes $5 a gallon, UH to keep classroom mask mandate, PETA seeks criminal charges against Kauai slaughterhouse, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach girl ©2022 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Tourism Authority awaits procurement for contract to promote Hawaii. The Hawaii Tourism Authority contract to supply destination management services and promote Hawaii to the U.S. market, the islands’ largest visitor source, is still up in the air at a time when travel spots across the world are competing to tap into rebounding travel demand. Star-Advertiser.

Japanese are eager to visit Hawaii: Lifting of restrictions there removes major barrier to travel. With Japan dropping its emergency COVID-19 restrictions next week, visitors from the country could start to return to Hawaii en masse as soon as next month. Tribune-Herald.

Across Hawaii, gas is over $5 a gallon, enticing some to electric vehicles. Soaring gas prices are leading some motorists to rethink how they get around. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

House sends budget proposal to Senate for further consideration. A state budget proposal is crossing over from the House to the Senate for further consideration. The measure will distribute more than $25 billion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill to support public high school surf teams advances. A measure to provide funding to support surfing as an interscholastic sport in Hawaii remains alive this legislative session. West Hawaii Today.

Committee passes bill aimed at reducing Hawaii's female prison population. House Bill 2312 proposes to establish the women's corrections implementation commission in the judiciary. The commission would develop a plan so that women who commit non-violent crimes, especially women with underage children, could participate in a rehab program instead of going to jail. KITV4.

University of Hawaiʻi Updates COVID-19 Guidelines, Face Mask Rules. Face mask requirements will be relaxed but will still be mandated for certain indoor activities on campus. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Popular Deaf School Principal Gets His Job Back. The Hawaii Department of Education acted in an “arbitrary and capricious” manner when it demoted and reassigned the principal of the Hawaii School for the Deaf and the Blind to a lower-level position at a different school three years ago, an arbitrator hearing a grievance in the case concluded late last month. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Bill to extend time for condominium owners to comply with fire safety codes passes. The Honolulu City Council voted to pass a measure that gives condominium owners more time to comply with a law that requires them to install fire sprinklers or pass a safety evaluation. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu City Council eyes HART budget amid proposal to stop short of Ala Moana. The Honolulu City Council gave initial approval Wednesday for next year’s budget for the agency overseeing the rail transit project. Hawaii Public Radio.

Federal attorneys file additional counts against former corporation counsel Donna Leong. The first superseding indictment was filed in U.S. District Court on Thursday afternoon, in the case against Leong, former city managing director Roy Amemiya, and former Honolulu Police Commission chair Max Sword. In the documents filed, five counts were added on, specifically against Leong, accusing her of making false statements to the FBI. KITV4.

U.S. Rep. Kai Kahele calls for return of Makua Valley land. U.S. Rep. Kai Kahele has introduced legislation requiring the cleanup, restoration and return of 782 leased acres of Oahu’s Makua Military Reservation used for live-fire training from 1942 to 2004 to the state of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

U.S. House approves heritage designation for Kaena Point. Kaena Point, the remote westernmost tip of Oahu, could become Hawaii’s first National Heritage Area under a bill approved by the U.S. House of Representatives. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaii Island

Closures Planned for Helicopter Operations at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. The reason for the closures is to provide public safety during the removal of invasive, non-native vegetation using a helicopter. Big Island Now.

Underground cable work on Kalanianaole Avenue. The Hawaii Department of Transportation said Thursday there will be work install underground cable between Monday and April 22 on Kalanianaole Avenue in Keaukaha. Tribune-Herald.

Kona restaurant issued yellow placard. Kai Eats and Drinks was inspected after a complaint was made to the Food Safety Branch by a customer who became ill after consuming a salad. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Condo Owners Want To Tax Themselves To Save Their Homes From Rising Seas. Are Community Facilities Districts a win-win? Property owners pay to protect their condos, and the public gets to enjoy improved beaches and infrastructure. Civil Beat.

Councilmember King to host community town hall on affordable housing, March 22. Councilmember Kelly Takaya King hosts an in-person town hall on March 22 at 6 p.m. at the Malcolm Center, 1305 N. Holopono St., to discuss affordable housing and address residents’ questions on affordable housing. Maui Now.

Kauai

Native Hawaiian homestead nonprofit buys Kauai affordable rental property. A Native Hawaiian homestead nonprofit recently purchased an affordable rental property on Kauai, advancing a first-of-its-kind project. The nonprofit’s leaders say the initiative is an effort to keep more rentals at affordable rates, particularly during the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

PETA seeks criminal charges against Wailua slaughterhouse. International animal-welfare organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals wants the Kaua‘i county prosecutor to investigate a local slaughterhouse. Garden Island.

Feds: Paco’s Tacos withheld over $62K in overtime, tips. Federal investigators have recovered nearly $63,000 in back wages and liquidated damages for 42 employees of Paco’s Tacos Cantina, a restaurant with four locations on Kaua‘i and one on O‘ahu. Garden Island.

Navy tells Pearl Harbor area residents not to drink the water, Omicron not yet detected in state, Kauai loosens gathering rules, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waimea Valley on Kauai ©2021 All Hawaii News

October visitor arrivals to Hawaii down nearly 31% from pre-pandemic times, spending down 15%. October visitor arrivals to Hawaii fell 30.8% compared with the same month in pre-pandemic times, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

New COVID-19 Emergency Proclamation Signed, Omicron Not Yet Detected in Hawai‘i. Gov. David Ige has signed the latest COVID-19 emergency proclamation, setting the stage for the next phase of state and county measures. The latest proclamation gives the counties the ability to issue emergency orders without seeking approval of the state. Maui Now.

Omicron variant not yet detected in Hawaiʻi. The Omicron variant was identified in southern Africa and has been detected in several European countries and Canada. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Department of Health Hawaii reported $4.7M in federal funds going to stave off pandemic-related evictions in Hawaii.  The Hawaii Public Housing Authority received $4.7 million to help families who are at risk of eviction due to financial hardship brought on by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. KITV4.

Kamehameha Schools Creates $10 Million Fund For Hawaii Food Producers. The first $300,000 is going to a local cooperative specializing in ulu and the 105 member farmers that it serves. Civil Beat. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Vaccination Rate Falls As State Corrects Data. Hawaii corrected its Covid-19 vaccination figures on Monday after completing a long-awaited update to its immunization registry that lowered the percentage of the population that has received at least one dose to 77%. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now. Maui Now.

Green hopeful that ‘what we’ve done so far is enough’ to guard against omicron variant. Gov. Josh Green said he’s “honestly concerned” about the newly discovered omicron variant of the novel coronavirus, but added that panic — especially in Hawaii — is premature. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii sees 71 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 87,585. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 30 new cases on Oahu, three on Hawaii Island, 21 on Maui, 16 on Kauai and one Hawaii resident diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii officials advise all users of Navy’s water system to avoid using water for drinking, cooking, or oral hygiene. Navy officials say that they are working on providing sources of drinking water for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam area residents who are affected by today’s state Health Department advisory to not use water that comes from the Navy’s water system. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Military families living near Red Hill blame sickness on tainted water. Area residents say they are concerned that a fuel leak at the Navy’s Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility about a week ago may have contaminated the water system in the Pearl Harbor area. Star-Advertiser.

Convicted Cop In Kealoha Case Gets His Job Back In Arbitration. Daniel Sellers was indicted along with the former HPD police chief and his prosecutor wife in 2017. After taking a plea deal, he was fired by the department. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Prompted by reports of unsafe conditions, senator makes surprise prison inspection. A state senator conducted a surprise inspection of the Halawa Correctional Facility on Monday after hearing guards’ reports of unsafe conditions. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Isabella Kalua Tragedy Turns A Spotlight On The Licensing Of Foster Families. Some convictions automatically disqualify families taking in foster children, but in many cases the state has discretion. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Cost of Government Commission to convene. Mayor Mitch Roth has tapped residents with backgrounds in the island Fire Department, U.S. Marines and Army, as well as a forensic engineer, software engineer and meteorologist to serve on the Cost of Government Commission, and he’s looking for three more candidates. West Hawaii Today.

4-Mile Creek Bridge Reconstruction Moving Forward. The one-lane bridge on Kilauea Avenue will be improved with an $18-million project, part of a state and county partnership. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Meeting to focus on plan for West Maui land. An informational meeting on management plans for state lands between Honolua Bay and Honokohau Bay in West Maui will be held Tuesday, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced. Maui News.

Maui To Stop Processing Immigration Applications. The county said it will no longer prepare and review immigration applications and other documents for Maui residents following the retirements of federally accredited staff. Civil Beat.

Maui Tourist Arrivals Down 31% for October Versus Pre-Pandemic 2019. In October 2021, there were 189,950 visitors to Maui, a 31% decrease from pre-pandemic October 2019, and they spent 9.4% less, according to preliminary visitor statistics released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Maui Now

Shared Solar Project Proposals Sought for Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i. Hawaiian Electric is beginning the procurement for projects to provide customers on Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i the opportunity to participate in a shared solar program, also known as community-based renewable energy. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County to increase gathering sizes, rules. Effective Wednesday, social gatherings and events on Kaua‘i will be limited to 40 indoors and 100 outdoors.  Garden Island.

Redistricting and politics, Land Board rejects aquarium industry plan, Honolulu marathon slated to return, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Hawaii tropical fish ©2021 All Hawaii News

Redrawing Hawaii’s Election Districts: ‘People Are Going To Be Pissed’. Years ago the political lines were redrawn in ways that clobbered Republicans. Today, the question is which Democrats will take the hit. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Tourism Authority contract award to top marketing agency prompts scrutiny. The Hawaii Tourism Authority recently awarded a $9.4 million sole-source contract to the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, even as the marketing agency nears the end of a separate contract worth $105 million to promote Hawaii to U.S. travelers and will have to compete to keep the more lucrative deal. Star-Advertiser.

Remote Work Is Here To Stay. You Can Thank The Pandemic For That. During last week’s Annual Conference of the Hawaii Economic Association, the chief executive of one of Hawaii’s largest architecture firms shared a story illustrating something that once might have been anathema to senior managers: It’s not necessary for employees to work at the office to be productive. Civil Beat.

Flu and pneumonia deaths in Hawaii over the past 12 months exceed pandemic’s local COVID fatalities. As COVID-19 continues to dictate public life and government policy in Hawaii, influenza and pneumonia have quietly killed at least 859 people over the past 12 months, exceeding the coronavirus death toll for the entire pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii records 4 new coronavirus-related deaths, 218 additional infections. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 121 new cases on Oahu, 16 on Maui, 34 on Hawaii island, 28 on Kauai, one on Molokai and 18 Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu eases COVID-19 rules for organized gatherings, football, other events. Starting Oct. 13, outdoor venues for sports and concerts may have up to 1,000 attendees or up to 50% of their full capacity — whichever is smaller. Associated Press. KHON2.

Land Board rejects environmental impact statement for Oahu aquarium pet trade. After hours of testimony, the state Land Board voted Friday to reject the Oahu aquarium fishing industry’s final environmental impact statement. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Marathon Plans to Return Dec. 12, 2021. Despite gathering restrictions on Oahu, Honolulu Marathon organizers are "Cautiously Optimistic" that they are able to hold upcoming race. KITV4.

Views clash over Oahu’s impending shift from coal to clean energy. Less than a year from now, Hawaiian Electric is slated to retire the island’s largest and dirtiest power plant as part of a historic ongoing transition to more renewable clean energy. Star-Advertiser.

City to reopen overnight camping at Bellows beach following months-long closure. The city Department of Parks and Recreations began accepting permit applications for overnight campers at Bellows Field Beach Park on Friday. The campsite had been closed since April to protect sea turtles during nesting season. Hawaii News Now.

Polo Beach Park parking lot to undergo renovations. The Department of Parks and Recreation announced Friday that the Polo Beach Park parking lot is scheduled to undergo renovations, including, repaving. KITV4.

NTSB to begin efforts to remove sunken cargo plane that crashed in waters off Oahu. The National Transportation Safety Board held a briefing on Saturday, detailing its plans to recover a Boeing 737 cargo jet that crashed into waters off Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Construction of Thirty Meter Telescope delayed at least 2 years. The developers of the planned Thirty Meter Telescope are now saying that construction of the $2.4 billion cutting-edge observatory isn’t likely to start for at least a couple of years. Star-Advertiser.

Council approves new fire captains, firefighters. Fire stations in Ocean View and Laupahoehoe will soon have captains to supervise operations, thanks to a $3.5 million federal grant adding nine new positions to the department. West Hawaii Today.

‘A very strong seller’s market’: More than 300 single-family homes bought in Puna in Q3. According to multiple listing service data, 774 homes were sold on the island between July and September, with each of those months an improvement from the previous year. The average sale price for the quarter was $805,000, while the median sales price in September was $499,000. Tribune-Herald.

Gate sparks debate: Property owners seek to secure their community. Good fences may make good neighbors, as the poet famously says. But gates, apparently not so much. The county Department of Public Works has revoked a building permit for a gate across Kaiolu Street where it meets Alii Drive, saying owners of all 14 lots in the small subdivision did not approve the application. West Hawaii Today.

Affordable housing development EA finds no significant impact. A final environmental assessment released Friday has a finding of no significant impact for a proposed affordable housing project of up to 90 units for seniors and families in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

6.2-magnitude quake centered off Hawaii Island rattles state; no tsunami threat. The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake was likely the result of “bending of the oceanic plate” from the weight of the Hawaiian Island chain. The tremor did not have an impact on the ongoing Kilauea eruption. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Mayor: Maui rules will be eased soon. On the heels of Honolulu announcing it will relax certain COVID-19 restrictions due to reduced case counts and other health data, Mayor Michael Victorino on Friday afternoon said looser rules are in the works for Maui County and details will be rolled out early next week. Maui News.

5-Month Improvement Project for Polo Beach Parking Lot Begins Oct. 18. Beach access and the comfort station will remain open throughout the parking lot project, located at the corner of Kaukahi Street and Makena Road. Maui Now.

Residents want county to manage popular beach parking lot. Private company trying to close lot, calling police on beachgoers, some tell state.Residents want Maui County to manage the gravel lot on state land near the Days Inn by Wyndham Maui Oceanfront. Maui News.

Construction for Kapaʻa Streets Project to Begin Next Week. In addition to the five-way intersection of Kawaihau Road, Hau‘a‘ala Road, and Mailihuna Road, safety improvements include new concrete sidewalks fronting Kapa‘a Elementary School, Kapa‘a High School and St. Catherine School, new bus shelters, and flashing beacons at crosswalks. Maui Now.

Over 400 jobs at Maui resort are in jeopardy as property is set to be sold to new owner. As a Maui resort is set to be sold to a new owner, over 400 workers may lose their jobs come December. The Royal Lahaina Resort notified the county and state this week that the property will change owners — and as a result 420 resort workers will be terminated. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Kauai

Household hazmat pickups coming sometime this winter. Homeowners with unwanted hazardous material must wait until sometime in early 2022 if they want their waste disposed of by the county, which will not hold a pickup this year. Garden Island.

Update on island’s coffee pests is online Wednesday. The state Department of Agriculture and University of Hawai‘i personnel will update Kaua‘i residents on the status of coffee berry borer and coffee leaf rust during an online “mini-conference” on Wednesday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon. Garden Island.

Ige extends pandemic restrictions to Nov. 30, Maui mayor defies Ige's order and allows spectators at sporting events, Kaiser health workers to vote on strike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Hawaii’s tourism industry anticipates a gradual return of visitors from Japan. As Japan officials ease COVID restrictions across the nation, Hawaii’s tourism industry can expect a rebound. But industry leaders anticipate the return of Japanese travelers will be a gradual one, and it will be some time before Hawaii’s economy sees the positive impacts. Hawaii News Now.

Governor extends mask rules, travel regulations for another 60 days, through Nov. 30. Gov. David Ige said Friday he would extend emergency orders requiring masks and regulating travel amid ongoing concerns about high numbers of COVID-19 infections. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Full text of Gov. David Ige's latest emergency proclamation can be found here.

State health department to end daily breakdown of Hawaii’s COVID-related deaths. Sunday’s email with the breakdown of deaths was the final one from the DOH for the foreseeable future, according to DOH spokesperson Brooks Baehr. Hawaii News Now.

Kaiser health care workers to vote on strike following failed contract negotiations. After months of failed contract negotiations, nearly 2,000 health care workers at Kaiser Permanente are set to vote on whether to authorize a strike. Hawaii News Now.

Saving Hawaii’s Banana Industry ‘One Good Banana’ At A Time Gabriel Sachter-Smith is on a mission to find the perfect banana for Hawaii. He’s already got 200 varieties in the works. Civil Beat.

State bankruptcies plummet 31% to 15-year low. Around the state, bankruptcies were mixed in the four major counties last month. Honolulu County filings dropped to 65 from 91, Maui County filings declined to nine from 23, Hawaii County filings remained at seven and Kauai County filings ticked up to five from four. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii businesses concerned, affected by COVID restrictions, survey finds. An anonymous Chamber of Commerce Hawaii survey of 217 members — conducted Sept. 10 of mostly Oahu businesses before Safe Access O‘ahu rules went into affect — found that 53% of respondents were still experiencing a workforce shortage, compared with 86% from a similar survey conducted in May. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii records 7 new coronavirus-related deaths, 277 additional infections. The  new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 161 new cases on Oahu, 21 on Maui, 65 on Hawaii island, 29 on Kauai and one Hawaii resident diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

As COVID crisis eases, mayor to propose that Oahu bars be allowed to serve alcohol until midnight. Honolulu’s mayor says he soon hopes to make changes to the city’s rules for bars, allowing them to serve alcohol until midnight rather than halting service at 10 p.m. Hawaii News Now.

City says at-home rapid tests can be used for entry to restaurants, gyms. At-home rapid COVID tests ― like the ones the city is giving away ― can be used for patrons or workers at restaurants, gyms and other businesses. But they’re not allowed for other government mandates. Hawaii News Now.

Embattled HPD commander reassigned after another officer files complaint against him. HPD Major Stephen Gerona has been the subject of multiple Hawaii News Now reports after four veteran officers came forward, accusing him of bullying, retaliation, harassment and creating a hostile work environment. Hawaii News Now.

Health officials join in chorus calling for Gov. Ige to allow fans at UH football. UH remains the lone FBS college football team without in-person fans. KHON2. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i Convention Center rooftop terrace needs repair. The Hawaii Tourism Authority plans to ask Gov. David Ige to add $64 million to the state’s capital improvements budget so that it can finally fix a leaky rooftop deck at the Hawai’i Convention Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Virtual public forum on new Maunakea Master Plan set. The University of Hawaii will host a virtual forum Wednesday evening during which the public can ask questions via email about the draft of a new Maunakea Master Plan. West Hawaii Today.

Lava from Kilauea volcano remains contained. Lava continues to erupt from multiple vents along the floor and western wall of Halemaumau Crater at the summit of Kilauea Volcano within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Maui Now.

Bay Clinic, West Hawaii Community Health Center announce merger. Bay Clinic and West Hawaii Community Health Center will consolidate operations next year to form a new health care organization serving patients islandwide. Tribune-Herald.

New Deputy Director Of Department of Research and Development Named. Robert “Bob” Agres, who recently served as the Manager for Disaster Recovery Community Engagement and Collaboration under the Planning Department and was familiar to the residents of Puna who were impacted by the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea, will fill the position. Agres succeeds Sulma Gandhi. Big Island Video News.

Maui

County visitor lodging tax set to roll out next month. Maui leaders will charge full 3% in wake of state call to pull county TATs. With more time needed to prepare, especially for smaller accommodations, the Maui County Council on Friday passed a new visitor lodging tax but put off enacting it until Nov. 1. Maui News.

Fans allowed to go back to some games, Victorino says. Mayor Michael Victorino bucked the governor’s denial of his proposed rule changes, moving ahead Friday with looser restrictions that will allow spectators to attend certain youth sporting events. Maui News. Hawaii News Now.

Six aging structures along the historic Hana Highway on Maui are chosen for major improvements. Many of the one-lane bridges were built more than a century ago and are obsolete by modern traffic safety and load standards.  Star-Advertiser.

Maui officials are seeking proposals on how to manage the county's overwhelming deer population. A county survey estimated there are currently 50,000 deer on the Valley Isle, and predicts the population could reach 210,000 in the next decade. KITV4.

Kauai

Future of Eastside water system uncertain. Nearly two years after management of the East Kaua‘i Irrigation System passed to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, no solution has been successfully implemented to prevent the system’s decommissioning. Garden Island.

HTA touts plans to cultivate ‘mindful visitors’. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority is promising a transition to a new direction, one aimed toward greater environmental sustainability and appreciation of local culture. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai Council Considers Resident-Only Beach Park Access. Crowds at the popular beach park fronting Lanai’s crescent-shaped Hulopoe Bay have sparked tensions between local residents and tourists. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's 20k federal civilian workers face Biden's vaccination mandate, COVID delays barge shipment, creates food shortages on Kauai, Jill Biden cuts foot on Oahu beach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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President’s tough new vaccination rules impact 20K federal civilian workers in Hawaii. Some 20,000 federal civilian workers in Hawaii along with on-site contractors are impacted by President Biden’s sweeping new vaccine order. Under the new rules, they’ll be required to verify they’re vaccinated or face regular testing. Unvaccinated workers will also face travel restrictions and be required to mask up. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii hits 60% vaccination milestone, but is still behind schedule. Honolulu has about 62% of its population fully vaccinated, followed by Kauai County at 60%, Hawaii County at 56% and Maui County at 54%. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Senate Formally Rejects Gov. David Ige's Court of Appeals Nominee. The state Senate formally rejected Gov. David Ige's appointment of Daniel Gluck to the Hawaiʻi Intermediate Court of Appeals after Gluck expressed his desire to withdraw from the process. Hawaii Public Radio. Associated Press.

Jill Biden treated for puncture on foot after Hawaii visit. First lady Jill Biden underwent a medical procedure Thursday to flush out debris from a puncture wound on her left foot, her spokesperson said. Associated Press.

HTA: Visitor Arrivals, Spending Up in June, But Remains Below Pre-Pandemic Levels. Nearly 800,000 visitors from the continental U.S. arrived in the islands last month, according to the latest report from the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority highlighting monthly visitor arrivals and spending. Hawaii Public Radio.

UH COVID-19 forecast model predicts Delta variant could push Oahu to 600 daily infections. The Hawaii Pandemic Applied Modeling Workgroup has come up with forecasts for several COVID-19 scenarios since the pandemic began last year, but the most alarming forecast is where the state could be heading in the next few months. KHON2.

July 29, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 234 Cases, 2 Deaths. The state Department of Health reports that there were 234** additional COVID-19 cases in Hawai‘i on Thursday. **An interruption in electronic lab reporting earlier this week resulted in incomplete case counts reported yesterday and today. The confirmed cases included: 137 on O‘ahu (+1 probable); 54 on Hawai‘i Island; 18 on Maui (+13 probable); nine on Kaua‘i; and one in a Hawai‘i resident diagnosed while out of state (+1 probable). Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council weighs how to spend federal COVID funds. The Honolulu City Council is deciding how to spend the first $193 million of federal American Rescue Plan Act funds that the city received in June to combat the public health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Handi-Van Driver Dies Of COVID-19. A Honolulu paratransit driver is one of the latest victims of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Honolulu Department of Transportation Services. The city did not release the person’s name or age, nor their date of death. Civil Beat.

Wai'anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center to require all employees to get vaccinated. Of the nearly 700 staff members at the center, 80 percent are already fully vaccinated. KITV4.

City cracks down on peer-to-peer car rentals clogging residential neighborhoods. With the shortage in rental cars, residents have been turning to renting out their cars using peer-to-peer sharing on apps like Turo. But some neighborhoods are seeing a proliferation of vehicles taking up parking on side streets — and the city is cracking down. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Tourism Authority approves plan to reduce Oahu tourists. The Hawaii Tourism Authority on Thursday approved a tourism management plan for Oahu that says the agency will work to “decrease the total number of visitors on the island.” That’s the top anchor action in the Oahu Destination Management Action Plan, which HTA developed in partnership with the City and County of Honolulu and the community over the past five months. Star-Advertiser.

Former managing director Roy Amemiya says he had nothing to do with former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha $250,000 settlement. Honolulu’s former managing director says he had nothing to do with the $250,000 settlement with former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and is still seeking information about the U.S. Department of Justice’s allegations that prompted investigators to subpoena him to testify before a federal grand jury, then make him a formal target of their investigation. Star-Advertiser.

Vice Principal Fired For Affair On Campus Accuses Her Union Of Failing To Defend Her. The vice principal, while accepting responsibility, says that dismissal for the affair with a principal was too harsh. Civil Beat.

How A ‘Perfect Storm’ Led To A Spike In COVID Cases On The Westside. Waianae and Ewa have had the highest number of new COVID-19 cases on Oahu in the past two weeks. Civil Beat.

Blaisdell Center Receives $3M Federal Shuttered Venue Operators Grant. The Neal S. Blaisdell Center has received just over $3 million from the federal Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program to recoup lost revenue caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

6 residents test positive for COVID at Hilo nursing facility. A long-term care home facility on the Big Island reported Wednesday that six of its residents tested positive for COVID. The Life Care Center of Hilo had conducted facility-wide testing after one of their employees became infected with the virus on July 21. Hawaii News Now.

Homesteaders eye dispute between Fevella, Aila: Senate minority leader seeks probe of DHHL. Keaukaha Community President Patrick Kahawaiolaa said it’s difficult for homesteaders to get loans from commercial lenders because the land is on 99-year leases for $1 a year and title belongs to the DHHL. Tribune-Herald.

24th annual Sayre awards fundraiser canceled due to COVID. The Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation announced the 24th annual Awards and Fund-Raising Dinner honoring the Hawaii Fire Department Meritorious Service Award recipients will not be held on Sept. 4 this year at the Fairmont Orchid due to the continued spread of the coronavirus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Environmental study for water leases complete. A&B, EMI are seeking 30-year lease to divert water from East Maui. Alexander & Baldwin and its subsidiary East Maui Irrigation Co. have wrapped up a long-awaited environmental study that the companies need in order to seek a long-term lease to divert water from East Maui streams. Maui News.

Hawaiian Electric Collecting Feedback on Shared Solar Program for Moloka‘i. Hawaiian Electric is hosting a virtual stakeholder meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 11, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., to collect feedback from Moloka‘i residents and business owners, renewable energy developers, and interested parties regarding Moloka‘i shared solar projects, also known as the Community-Based Renewable Energy program. Maui Now.

$1 Million in New Grants & Matching Funds for Lānaʻi Watershed Conservation Program. The Kuahiwi a Kai: Lānaʻi Watershed Conservation Program has received four new grants worth $471,000 and matching contributions of $547,000, for a total conservation impact of more than $1 million. Maui Now.

Fewer Visitors to Maui in June 2021 than June 2019, But They Spent More. The 260,618 visitors to Maui in June 2021 contributed $503 million to the local economy, which is 5.4% more than the $477 million spent by the 295,926 tourists who came to the island pre-pandemic in June 2019. Maui Now.

Kauai

Barge shipment delay results in no burgers, pet food. Burger King ran out of burgers, and Kentucky Fried Chicken ran out of mashed potatoes. These were just some of the effects of a barge shipment delayed due to crew members contracting COVID-19, setting off a small chain reaction on the island. Garden Island.

Red Hot Chili Peppers’ singer selling North Shore home. Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis is selling his Kaua‘i house for nearly $10 million. Garden Island.