Mauna Kea Thirty Meter Telescope stalemate drags on, Kauai mulls mayor-less government, Hawaii council to change law to suit judge's rezoning, Health Department wants comments on Maui cane burning, needles washing up at Keehi beach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Photovoltaic panels in Honolulu

Hawaiian Electric Co. has submitted a new plan to Hawaii regulators regarding rooftop solar, which includes raising the cost of new systems being installed. Pacific Business News.

If there are new challenges to the construction of telescopes on Mauna Kea, the expansion of Turtle Bay Resort or the Honolulu rail system’s impact on historic sites, they could be heard in Hawaii’s Environmental Court, which debuted Wednesday. Supporters hope it will bring more consistency to environmental rulings. Last year, opponents said judges designated to the Environmental Court would be prone to improper influence. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City Environmental Services Director Lori Kahikina acknowledged a shopping bag ban will be an adjustment for residents of Oahu, the last county in the state to implement an ordinance aimed at stepping up use of environmentally friendly checkout bags, but said the law is a compromise between environmentalists and businesses that have to pay more for compostable or paper bags. Star-Advertiser.

Several of the homeless people living in a warren of plywood- and pallet-hardened tents around the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center worry that Monday’s attack on state Rep. Tom Brower by two homeless teenagers will bring unwanted attention and force them to set up shop in someone else’s neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

Those who frequent Keehi Lagoon Beach Park say needles have been washing up on shore more often. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The County Council will fast-track changes to its concurrency laws to accommodate a Hilo District Court judge’s application to subdivide his property. Judge Harry Freitas and his wife, Sandra, want to rezone their 50-acre Mountain View property from agriculture 20 acres to agriculture 5 acres. The Windward Planning Commission had recommended against the rezoning. West Hawaii Today.

As University of Hawaii officials offer no timeline for reopening the Mauna Kea summit road and visitor center, some tour operators who rely on the mountain for business say that each day brings them closer to layoffs. West Hawaii Today.

Tourists and island residents hoping to visit Mauna Kea’s summit anytime soon likely will be left disappointed as the road closure is expected to continue through the end of the week. Tribune-Herald.

The Mauna Kea summit will remain closed to the public well into next week while officials ensure the safety of a road damaged last week during the protest that blocked construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope, officials said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Many of the protesters opposed to plans for a giant telescope atop Mauna Kea came down from the mountain for a large gathering Wednesday around the King Kamehameha statue in Honolulu. Associated Press.

A Hawaiian mediation process known as ho‘oponopono is being offered to the first group of protesters arrested on Mauna Kea as an alternative to prosecution. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources approved more than $9,000 in fines for a Big Island tour company that operated unpermitted tours of the lava flow near Pu‘u ‘O‘o. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The state Department of Health is soliciting public comments regarding cane burning on Maui after residents called in earlier this month with concerns about a May 27 burn that enveloped South Maui, an official said. Maui News.

Sign-waving protesters line Piilani Highway near the entrance to a Monsanto farming operation in north Kihei on Wednesday morning. The protest came a day after a federal judge struck down the Maui County moratorium on genetically engineered crops passed by voters last fall. The judge ruled Tuesday that the ordinance was "invalid and unenforceable." Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday to form a council subcommittee to study a county manager form of government. Garden Island.

Members of the public testified Wednesday on a measure that would charge hikers who ignore warning signs for costs to rescue them if they get in trouble. Garden Island.

Waterfalls do not make good neighbors, homeless czar's future uncertain, high tech corp seeks neighbor island mentors, more ethics complaints for Mayor Kenoi, Honolulu airport security guards unionize, staff cuts threaten vector control program, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Maunawili Falls, Wkipedia photo

Maunawili residents are bracing for another busy summer, anticipating an onslaught of visitors by the busload along with local hikers passing through the otherwise quiet neighborhood to get to the Maunawili Falls Trail. Star-Advertiser.

A $740,000 grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention could give state Department of Health officials a better understanding on the reasons why suicides and other violent deaths happen. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s High Technology Development Corp. has released a request for proposals in search of mentors to coach technology companies on the Neighbor Islands. HTDC is based in the Manoa Innovation Center and has had difficulty expanding its program outside of Oahu. Pacific Business News.

For all he knows, Colin Kippen will be out of his job in two weeks. Since June 2012, Kippen has been serving as the governor’s coordinator on homelessness, a job overseeing Hawaii’s homelessness response system. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Na Pua Makani Power Partners LLC countered recent community opposition to a second wind farm in Kahuku Wednesday by saying the new turbines will lower electricity bills. Star-Advertiser.

To help ease traffic congestion caused by rail and other construction projects in Central and West Oahu, City Councilman Brandon Elefante has introduced a resolution urging public and private employers to provide some help to employees, including those commuting into downtown from Waipahu and Pearl City. Star-Advertiser.

The city will relocate its bustling Kapalama satellite city hall and driver licensing offices at City Square this fall to the former Sprint building several blocks away on Dillingham Boulevard, city administration officials confirmed Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Board of Water Supply officials told members of a City Council committee Wednesday that they worry a draft plan to make improvements at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility does too little over too long a period of time. Star-Advertiser.

Security guards at Honolulu International Airport voted overwhelmingly to join a Hawaii-based union Wednesday, joining neighbor island colleagues who have already done the same. The union's president said he hopes to negotiate a master agreement to raise the guards' pay and improve what he called “meager” benefits. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Mayor Billy Kenoi and his campaign manager, who was hired in April to head the Office of Aging, are the subjects of an ethics complaint alleging political favoritism in county hiring. West Hawaii Today.

The nonprofit Hawaii Island Electric Cooperative has retained an investment banker with years of experience with mergers and acquisitions as it continues to explore the idea of public ownership of the Big Island’s electric utility. Tribune-Herald.

Finance Factors is selling its 13,130-acre Koa Forest on the Big Island of Hawaii, which is one of the single-largest privately-owned tracts of old growth native koa trees in existence, for $14 million. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Police Chief Tivoli Faaumu said two police officers "followed what they were trained to do" when they were confronted by a fugitive who shot at the officers before shooting himself following a traffic stop Saturday afternoon in Wailuku. Maui News.

Maui County Corporation Counsel Patrick Wong regularly visits Las Vegas each year, according to the Financial Disclosure Statements he’s filed with the Maui County Board of Ethics. And over the past four or five years, these statements show, his trips to Vegas have clearly been worth far more than the nearly six hours it takes to fly there. In fact, they show that since 2011, Wong has earned somewhere between $500,000 and $1.2 million gambling in Vegas. MauiTime.

Health officials say they couldn’t investigate an increase in mosquitoes on Maui because of a lack of resources. The state Department of Health’s vector control unit suffered severe cuts years ago and we’ve been following the issue since. Vector control handles animals that have the potential to carry disease, from rodents to insects. KHON2.

Kauai

Kauai Bus riders have until the end of June to buy monthly and annual passes before rates go up. Monthly fare prices will increase by $5 starting July 1. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council on Wednesday gave its stamp of approval to new collective bargaining agreements that will raise public employee wages and other benefits by more than $1.3 million in the coming fiscal year, forcing the county to again dip into its reserve savings. Garden Island.

The future is uncertain for tours of one of Kauai’s most famous resorts, as partial demolition of the hotel is pending state and county approval. Bob Jasper, owner of Coco Palms Tour, said he’s unsure how demolition work at Coco Palms Resort will affect his business. Garden Island.

Molokai

A devastating pest known as the coconut mite was recently found on Molokai and now threatens to destroy the island's historic Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove. Maui News.

Kahoolawe

In one month, the cash-strapped Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission raised about $38,000 to assist with operations through the summer, but the group still is short of its $100,000 goal and may have to reduce volunteer trips to the one-time practice range for the military. Maui News.

Gov. Ige heads to Japan, Honolulu homeless measures don't work -- bills to be heard today, Hawaii Island mulls electricity options, Kauai wants disobedient hikers to pay for own rescue, Maui plans land purchase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Jibanyan, official Kids Spokesperson of Hawaiʻi Tourism Japan, visits Gov. Ige in March, courtesy Governor's Office

Gov. David Ige will travel to Japan this week to promote Hawaii tourism. He will meet with Japa­nese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Cabinet ministers to discuss the possible pre-clearance of flights from Japan to Hawaii, according to a release issued Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige is scheduled to travel to Japan this month to meet with government officials and members of the travel industry. The goal, says his office, is “to promote and expand travel from Japan to the Hawaiian Islands.” Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige is spending the next week in Japan discussing Hawaii as a tourism destination with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and other government officials and members of the travel industry, the governor’s office said Saturday. Pacific Business News.

Medical marijuana promoters say dispensaries in Hawaii could create a lucrative new market with up to 800 jobs and $65 million a year in sales. House Bill 321 — which allows for 16 dispensaries to open in Hawaii on July 15, 2016, and potentially many more the following year — is now in Gov. David Ige's hands. Star-Advertiser.

A measure that will provide a temporary state income tax credit for the cost of upgrading or converting a cesspool to a septic or aerobic treatment system or of connecting to a sewer system was signed into law by Gov. David Ige on Friday. Maui News.

Oahu

A new wave of sit-lie bills and other homeless-related measures will get their first airing before the City Council's Zoning and Planning Committee at a special meeting at 9 a.m. Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s “sit-lie” ban and other ordinances underpinning Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s “compassionate disruption” program are doing little to curb homelessness in the city, according to a University of Hawaii study being released Monday. Civil Beat.

Earlier this month, when Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell unveiled his long-anticipated plan to use a plot of vacant land on Sand Island to house the homeless, he did it with a little twist. Instead of opening a tent-based homeless encampment, as he originally envisioned, Caldwell announced that the city would build a “modular” facility using up to 25 “modified shipping containers” to temporarily house 75 to 100 people. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council Zoning and Planning Committee has scheduled a special meeting today at 9 a.m. at Honolulu Hale to hear public testimony on five proposed bills that seek to expand or amend the language of the City's sit-lie law that impacts Oahu's homeless populations on public sidewalks. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell and the Honolulu City Council should consider providing "shallow subsidies" to homeless families and individuals who simply need a few hundred dollars more a month to be able to put a roof over their heads, the leaders of two advocacy groups say. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The pending $4.3 billion sale of Hawaiian Electric Industries to Florida-based NextEra Energy has put Hawaii Island’s energy future at a crossroads. The two paths being discussed: Takeover by a mainland-based, investor-owned corporation, or public, local ownership in the form of a cooperative. Tribune-Herald.

Following a four-month reprieve, Hawaii County has set July 1 as the date commercial haulers must register and pay tipping fees to dump green waste at the Puuanahulu and Hilo landfills rather than dumping it for free at transfer stations. West Hawaii Today.

In anticipation of future growth in Keaau, Hawaii County planners are proposing to change land use designations for much of the town. The amendment would apply to 587 acres makai of Highway 11 and designate most of Keaau as medium density urban, a classification currently limited to 52 acres of land in the commercial area. Tribune-Herald.

Veteran Dale Medcalf said he was amazed recently when he found himself being evicted from Reed’s Bay hotel because of his service dog, 3-year-old Milan. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council Vice Chairman Don Guzman is urging Mayor Alan Arakawa to quickly consider the council's $3 million appropriation to purchase 267 acres near the "Jaws" surf spot on Maui's north shore. Maui News.

Judge’s decision favors Honua Kai developers. No fraud, unfair and deceptive practices, yet both sides seek changes to judge’s ruling. Maui News.

Governor David Ige was on Maui last week to sign a historic bill about local health care. The measure will allow Maui's three public hospitals to partner with a private healthcare provider. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

A Kauai County councilmember is proposing a measure that would require hikers in need of rescue — who disregard warnings — to pay the county for recovery missions. Garden Island.

A proposed measure in Kauai County would require rescued hikers who disregarded warning signs to repay the government for recovery missions. Associated Press.

The Kauai County Council has voted to narrow the definition of a bed-and-breakfast operation to require that the owner live in the same dwelling. Otherwise it's a transient vacation rental, subject to a different set of rules, permits and fees. Star-Advertiser.

Molokai

Molokai’s future is being weighed as a local committee reviews the island’s Community Plan update, a blueprint for the next 20 years. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii on the Hill in D.C., Hawaiian Electric shareholders vote on sale today, new blood wins teachers union leadership, Thirty Meter Telescope protesters allowed to camp on site, Honolulu homeless sweeps continue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii on the Hill, courtesy Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

More than 50 companies from Hawaii are converging on Capitol Hill this week for the second annual Hawaii on the Hill event, which kicked off on Tuesday with a reception at Google's Washington, D.C., headquarters. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. is hoping to get shareholder approval Wednesday for its sale to Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. after it failed to win the necessary votes at a May 12 meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries will hold a special shareholders meeting today. They’ll vote on whether or not to approve the $4.3 billion sale to the Florida-based company NextEra Energy. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals might have upheld Hawaii’s law banning government contractors from donating to political candidates. But in reality the prohibition doesn’t do much to curb the outsized influence that businesses have on politics in the Aloha State. Hawaii can’t block individuals from donating their money to political campaigns, even if they own a company that has ongoing contracts with state and local governments. Civil Beat.

Campbell High School social studies teacher Corey Rosenlee, who's led a grass-roots movement to improve teaching conditions at Hawaii public schools, has been elected to lead the powerful Hawaii State Teachers Association, the union announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The new leaders of the Hawaii State Teachers Association say they have big plans for changing the way their union tackles some of the toughest education issues in the state. But before Corey Rosenlee, Justin Hughey and Amy Perruso can start addressing problems like teacher retention or school spending, they will have to deal with the divisions caused by one of the most contentious elections in union history. Civil Beat.

NOAA wants to expand its focus and boundaries of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and is currently in the comment period for the proposed expansion – more than 2,000 signed letters have been received opposing it. KITV4.

Oahu

Homeless families in Honolulu are figuring out where to go after the city swept the banks of a canal where they were living in tents. Star-Advertiser.

A day after the homeless encampment along the Kapalama Canal was given notice to pack their belongings, crews moved through to clean up and enforce the city's stored property ordinance -- which officials say is designed to keep public areas safe and sanitary. But just hours after crews cleared the area Tuesday morning, many of the homeless who were camping out here had already returned. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai’i government and social service partners have adopted the national goal to end homelessness for veterans on O’ahu by the end of this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

In early February, officials were worried vast sections of reefs in Kaneohe Bay might be overrun with a fast-moving and deadly coral disease. Now it appears the malady has vanished and, in fact, the disease wasn't even what officials thought it was. Star-Advertiser.

The state is not buying two new ZipMobiles to replace the aging machines that both went down a little more than two months ago, creating a traffic nightmare for H-1 freeway commuters. But the state is greatly boosting the repair and maintenance expenses of the ZipMobiles, after officials admitted not enough money was spent on upkeep in the past. Hawaii News Now.

Caretakers of a historic home that once belonged to King Kamehameha III and Queen Kalama say the historic site is not getting the respect it deserves. The area is off-limits to the public, but that’s not stopping people from using the site as their own playground. KHON2.

Kualoa Ranch in Windward Oahu has plans to expand its operation to the North Shore with a sheep operation as part of a proposed solar energy farm, and a partnership involving cattle with Big Island’s Parker Ranch and Honolulu social impact investment firm Ulupono Initiative, the head of Kualoa Ranch confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Less than two weeks after the city Ethics Commission announced former Honolulu City Councilman Nestor Garcia had been fined $8,100 for ethical breaches, Garcia quit his job as a television reporter at KHON2 effective Friday. Star-Advertiser.

A house of squalor in Kaimuki remains untouched with heaps of trash fouling up the neighborhood. Neighbors are in disbelief, wondering what it takes to get help from anyone in the government. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Despite rules prohibiting camping on Mauna Kea, protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope have been allowed to do so for more than two months, maintaining a 24-hour presence outside the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. Tribune-Herald.

Organizers of a charter school planned for Ka‘u have scaled back enrollment projections, but they say the project is on track for a July opening. Ka‘u Learning Academy, the state’s only charter school approved this year, plans to use the Discovery Harbour golf course clubhouse as a temporary facility. Organizers have been appearing before the state Public Charter School Commission, the Windward Planning Commission and the Hawaii County Liquor Commission as they wrap up fundraising efforts and attend to the myriad of details associated with turning a golf clubhouse into a school. West Hawaii Today.

The number of cruise ship visits to Hilo Harbor declined in the first five months of 2015 compared with the same time period last year. Forty-eight vessels arrived in port between Jan. 1 and the end of May, according to data provided by the state Department of Transportation. Fifty-seven cruise ships visited Hilo during the same period in 2014. Tribune-Herald.

Lava insurance moratorium lifted. Tribune-Herald.

A talk story session is scheduled at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on Wednesday to discuss its draft general management plan, wilderness study, and environmental impact statement. The meeting will be held at the Kilauea Visitor Center from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Big Island Now.

Maui

Shark attacks are increasing in Hawaii, especially off Maui, and scientists think they have figured out why. A report due to be released next month by University of Hawaii marine biologists basically concludes that a burgeoning recreation industry is butting up against shark-friendly environmental conditions to create a double whammy of sorts, at least for the human population. Civil Beat.

A $7,000 settlement payment to the state is being proposed for Maalaea reef damage that happened when the Ocean Odyssey went aground a quarter-mile northeast of McGregor Point in 2013. Maui News.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reopening a 15-day public comment period that ends June 25 on the proposed critical habitat designation of 135 species found in Maui County. Maui News.

Kauai

Gov. David Ige channeled his inner-engineer on Tuesday when he summed up his governing philosophy: “It’s about execution: doing the right thing, in the right way.” The governor made the remark at a Kauai Chamber of Commerce luncheon during his first visit to the island since he was sworn into office in December. Garden Island.

A parachute inflated during a test of new technology for landing larger spacecraft on Mars, but it disintegrated immediately afterward, NASA officials said Tuesday. Associated Press.

A Kauai Community College researcher is seven months into the first field experiment studying the potential of ulu (breadfruit) as a major field crop. Garden Island.

Hawaii out of compliance on Obamacare, ethics board delays Kenoi pCard case, sharks love Maui, monk seal feasts on scraps in video, two few marijuana dispensaries, Honolulu TV station sold, Kakaako affordable housing delayed, Molokai seeks money for ferry, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mayor Billy Kenoi, attorneys at Ethics Board, courtesy Occupy Hilo Media

The state attorney general said it was unusual — and unnecessary — for the three-member Hawaii County Board of Ethics appointed by Mayor Billy Kenoi to postpone hearing a complaint about Kenoi's $129,000 in county purchase-card spending until the AG's office finishes a separate criminal investigation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County Board of Ethics, courtesy Occupy Hilo Media

The Hawaii County Board of Ethics deferred a citizen’s petition filed against Mayor Billy Kenoi because of use of his county-issued credit card for personal expenses. The board voted 3-0 Wednesday to wait until the state Attorney General’s Office completes its investigation of the matter before proceeding with the complaint. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii's ethics board wants the attorney general to conclude an investigation into Mayor Billy Kenoi's questionable credit card expenses before proceeding with its own inquiry. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige acknowledged Wednesday that Hawaii is out of compliance with the federal Affordable Care Act and is at risk of losing $1 billion in Medicaid funds if Washington does not accept the state's plan to remedy the ailing Hawaii Health Connector. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii organization formed to spur the public acquisition of Hawaiian Electric Co., is causing the state’s largest utility to question the involvement of the groups, companies and organizations that were allowed to the intervene in NextEra Energy Inc.'s proposed $4.3 billion acquisition case before Hawaii regulators. Pacific Business News.

Some lawmakers had wanted 26 medical marijuana dispensaries to be licensed. Compromise whittled it down to 23 then 16. But the conservatism has some medical marijuana experts questioning the math. Hawaii News Now.

Opinion: Gov. David Ige and former Gov. Neil Abercrombie differ on something more important than style. They approach policymaking in diametrically opposed ways. Civil Beat.

The Agriculture Department has developed the first government certification and labeling for foods that are free of genetically modified ingredients. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Hawai’i Community Development Authority withheld a final decision on a project proposed by a major Kaka’ako developer to build affordable housing. Hawaii Public Radio.

The city plans to open the King Street bike track to cycling in both directions Friday, coinciding with national Bike to Work Day. Star-Advertiser.

A Shangri La museum official says the fence it erected a year ago to prevent young daredevils from diving into shallow water in front of Doris Duke’s Diamond Head mansion has failed to stop the risky behavior. So now the foundation that owns Shangri La is seeking permits to take down the massive lava rock breakwater that created the harbor basin near Cromwell’s Beach in 1937. Civil Beat.

Hawaii ABC-network affiliate KITV is being sold by New York-based Hearst Television to California-based SJL Broadcast Management. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama’s presidential library will be built on Chicago’s South Side, but his foundation plans to develop “joint programs” with the University of Hawaii and other “local partners,” Obama’s sister, Maya Soetoro-Ng, said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The embattled principal at Honokaa High and Intermediate was removed from the school through the end of the year. Tribune-Herald.

State regulators are reminding the public that new rules will slap heavy fines on those who introduce new wildlife to the islands. Laws that went into effect Feb. 27 lay out fines up to $25,000 and seizure of equipment, aircraft, vehicles and vessels used in the violation. West Hawaii Today.

With video. He’s known as B-18 and for the past week this endangered Hawaiian monk seal has been spotted repeatedly swimming in and around boats at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. He’s feeding on fish scraps that have been thrown overboard. This has prompted the state Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation to remind people that it is against the law to dispose of fish scraps in state waters. West Hawaii Today.

IRONMAN will forfeit nearly $2.8 million to the U.S. government for running an illegal lottery that gave competitors a chance to compete in the historic world championship triathlon on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Sharks love Maui, but scientists aren’t ready to explain why. MauiTime.

Kauai

Good news for Kauai’s economy: more tourists are visiting the island, and they are spending more, too. Garden Island.

Molokai

Possible financial aid is in sight for the Molokai ferry, whose recent losses in ridership and funds have forced company president David Jung to consider a shutdown as early as June. Molokai Dispatch.

Undersea cable could improve Internet, Hawaiian Electric fails to get stockholder votes for NextEra deal, rail funding approved, UH could lower tuition, Honolulu settles with EPA on landfill, Maui mayor and council at odds over budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

undersea cable

Next year, the University of Hawaii will begin upgrading its high-speed Internet pipeline thanks to a $4.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation. The five-year grant will cover the costs associated with operating and upgrading the international research and education network, which includes a series of undersea cables. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii is getting a $4.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation so it can invest in an international submarine network. Associated Press.

It was not the result Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. hoped for Tuesday. The state's largest electric utility failed to get the necessary votes at its shareholders' meeting to approve its planned $4.3 billion sale to Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. So HEI extended the voting deadline to June 10 and commenced a monthlong campaign to get another 5.4 million shares to line up in favor of the proposed sale. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries recessed a special meeting of shareholders Tuesday morning after the votes in favor of the proposed merger with Florida-based NextEra Energy fell short of the number required  for approval. Company chairman Jeff Watanabe took the podium a half-hour after the meeting’s scheduled start and quickly got to the point. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents is considering lowering tuition by 2 to 3 percentage points across the 10-campus system and forgoing as much as $16 million in additional revenue next year in an effort to keep tuition affordable. Star-Advertiser.

Compared with other U.S. states, Hawaii isn't very bicycle-friendly — and its ranking has only gotten worse in recent years, according to a new national report. The Aloha State came in 43rd out of 50 for the best states in which to get around by bicycle, the Washington, D.C.-based League of American Bicyclists found in its 2015 "Bicycle Friendly State Ranking," which was released this week. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority's board of directors on Tuesday announced that Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association head George Szigeti will be the state tourism marketing agency's next president and CEO. Pacific Business News.

Tourism officials say a growing timeshare industry will help Hawaii break the state’s visitor record this year. Hawaii Tourism Authority data shows timeshares were up 4.9 percent for the first three months of the year. Associated Press.
Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell praised a settlement with the federal Environmental Protection Agency that requires the city to pay an $875,000 fine and build a $16.1 million solar-energy project at the HPOWER plant in Campbell Industrial Park to settle air violations at the now-shuttered Kapaa Landfill in Kailua. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu has agreed to install a $16.1 million solar power system and pay an $875,000 penalty to resolve air violations at its closed Kapaa Landfill in Kailua, according to the terms of a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat obtained a copy of the city’s checkbook for rail expenditures through a public records request. It shows that from July 5, 2007, to March 13, 2015, more than 4,800 checks totaling $1.389 billion had been cut by the city to pay rail bills. But knowing how many checks were cut and to whom they were issued doesn’t tell the whole story. The checkbook doesn’t provide the necessary detail to thoroughly scrutinize how taxpayer dollars have been spent on the largest public works project in the state’s history.

In a dispute with the agency in charge of the city's $6 billion rail project, the Blood Bank of Hawaii is telling city officials that it should be paid $3 million to relocate its Kalihi primary donor center. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee approved next year’s funding for the rail transit project today.  It includes a 3-million dollar pay-out. Hawaii Public Radio.

The chair of the University of Hawaii Manoa Faculty Senate has resigned his leadership position after he came under fire by fellow Senate members for a Hawaii News Now interview in which he defended a top UH administrator accused of bullying faculty and staff. Hawaii News Now.

Approximately 500 people are now living along the sidewalks in Kaka'ako and officials say the vast majority are migrants from Micronesia and the Marshall Islands. Hawaii News Now.

Now that Chicago has been named the future site for Barack Obama’s presidential library, what will happen to nearly eight acres of land in Kakaako? KHON2.

Three Oahu elementary schools are in the hunt for a national Blue Ribbon award. The state Department of Education announced Tuesday that Hahaione, Kaelepulu and Palisades elementary schools are Hawaii’s 2015 Blue Ribbon Schools nominees. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

When Margaret Masunaga was sworn in last year as a district court judge in Kona, she received a number of gifts from well-wishers, ranging from lei to a designer handbag. Like the other nine Big Island judges, Masunaga claimed no gifts on her annual financial disclosure filed last month. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The $300 million Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope on the summit of Haleakala is halfway completed. It could become Hawaii's third largest telescope, unless the state's high court decides to halt construction. Hawaii News Now.

Opinion: Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa calls Councilmembers White, Hokama ‘snollygosters’ MauiTime.

Kauai

The red dust blew onto Susan Arquette’s property Monday like it had so many times before, ever since DuPont Pioneer began operating test fields 17 years ago on the bluff overlooking her neighborhood. But this time the dust came down with a fresh twinge of irony. Garden Island.

As part of an ongoing community outreach effort, Kauai Police Chief Darryl D. Perry and the Kauai Police Department will host a series of community outreach meetings. Garden Island.

NOAA expands humpback whale sanctuary, marijuana dispensaries fast-tracked, lava threat downgraded, census shows islands' growth, rail audit bill advances, Matlin named UH AD, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale breaches in Hawaii, courtesy NOAA

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Wednesday proposed to expand the focus of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary to include all the marine species within its boundaries. Star-Advertiser.

It looks like 2015 tourism is off to a slow start, with arrivals and spending below targets. Although visitor arrivals came back in February, the Hawaii Tourism Authority reported Wednesday that total visitor spending continued trending down, dropping by 4.3 percent from a year ago to $1.2 billion. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii could have medical marijuana dispensaries much sooner than initially anticipated — perhaps as soon as next year. On Wednesday, the Senate Health and Public Safety committees passed House Bill 321, the bill that would create medical marijuana dispensaries and production centers in each Hawaii county. Civil Beat.

A legislative committee has approved a bill related to the state's health exchange. But it removed part of the proposal that would allow the exchange to issue $28 million in debt financing. Associated Press.

Some state lawmakers want the State Capitol to reduce the hours its open to the public to increase security since homeless people are entering the building early in the morning and late at night. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

More people left Oahu between July 1, 2013, and July 1, 2014, than moved in, but births made up the difference and nudged the island's population closer to 1 million, according to data released Thursday by the Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

A House resolution that would call for a state audit of Oahu's cash-strapped rail project is gaining momentum. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers, who are considering the extension of a tax hike to pay for Honolulu’s $6 billion rail project, want more assurances before they sign off. Civil Beat.

More than a year's worth of work to keep development off a big piece of Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu's North Shore avoided a serious setback Wednesday after receiving a life-sustaining vote at the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

The House Committee on Water and Land advanced a bill today to fund the state’s portion to purchase Turtle Bay Resort land for conservation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Twenty-two years after he beseeched the University of Hawaii athletic department for an opportunity to get his foot in the door, David A.K. Matlin was handed the keys to the place as its new director on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sophina Placencia, 32, was arrested Wednesday for five felony theft counts for improperly diverting more than $200,000 in state funds from the Waianae Community Outreach for use by herself, family members and friends, said Attorney General Doug Chin. KITV4.

Hawaiian Electric Co., which flipped the switch on smart meters for 5,200 customers on Oahu as part of a pilot program late last year, has had fewer than 1 percent of customers opt out, the head of the Honolulu-based utility said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

When it comes to population increases in Hawaii County, more of us flew here than grew here, according to the latest data released Wednesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. Hawaii County’s population grew 4.9 percent, to 194,190 people, according to the data that tabulated births and deaths and estimated domestic and international migration between the 2010 census and June 30, 2014. West Hawaii Today.

With the threat level from Kilauea volcano downgraded Wednesday, Hawaii County will consider scaling back its lava flow updates and overflights that have been a nearly daily occurrence for the past six months, said Civil Defense chief Darryl Oliveira. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists on Wednesday downgraded the alert level for Kilauea volcano from warning to watch for the first time since warning levels were reached in September. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is downgrading the alert level for Kilauea. The observatory said Wednesday the alert level goes from warning to watch. Associated Press.

The world’s largest defense contractor, Lockheed Martin, is teaming up with NELHA-based Kampachi Farms on a venture to make open-ocean aquaculture commercially viable. West Hawaii Today.

The state Commission on Water Resource Management is chiefly concerned with how much water is available and how those quantities should be managed. But West Hawaii residents are just as worried about threats to water quality, judging from a scoping meeting held by CWRM in Kailua-Kona on Tuesday evening. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Arrivals to the island of Maui rose 3.5% in February to 195,624, according to new information released by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority. Maui Now.


Kauai

A photovoltaic project at Hanalei Elementary School is set to resume after a change in contractors forced a work delay. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Electric, NextEra set public meetings; 80% tax posed for e-cigs; Turtle Bay deal in jeopardy; Pentagon mulls exhuming Punchbowl remains; lawmakers want hotel tax for beaches; Molokai ferry unpopular; UH to study Hualalai geothermal; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Electricity, courtesy NextEra Energy

Hawaiian Electric Co. and Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc., which is buying the Honolulu-based utility for $4.3 billion, are holding a series of informational meetings across the state next month to talk about the planned acquisition. Pacific Business News.

NextEra Energy and Hawaiian Electric will be hosting 13 community meetings across Hawaii to discuss the companies' pending merger. The two companies announced in December that Florida-based NextEra plans to acquire Hawaiian Electric to expand clean energy in Hawaii. Associated Press.

State lawmakers are taking concerns about the pending $4.3 billion sale of Hawaiian Electric Company to Florida-based NextEra Energy to the House floor via a series of resolutions. Tribune-Herald.

News release: NextEra Energy and Hawaiian Electric Companies to Host Open House Informational Meetings. NextEra Energy.

A state Senate committee Monday unanimously approved an overhauled bill that would levy an 80 percent sales tax on snuff, chewing tobacco, small cigars, loose tobacco and electronic cigarettes, with one company saying it would cripple Hawaii's young e-cigarette industry. Star-Advertiser.

Two State Senate committees will vote later this week on whether to advance a measure to set up medical marijuana dispensaries for nearly 13-thousand qualified patients. Hawaii Public Radio.

A bill in the state Legislature was approved by a joint Senate panel Monday that would set aside part of the transient accommodations tax to help fund beach replenishment. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to relax the state's annual motor vehicle safety check requirement on the neighbor islands has been rejected by key leaders in the state Senate and appears to be dead for the year. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would require a comprehensive financial, management and program audit of the Hawaii Department of Education will be heard Wednesday by a state Senate committee. West Hawaii Today.

The $10 million estimates for fixing the leaking, algae-plagued and occasionally stinky reflecting pools at the State Capitol are so high that state officials are asking whether they should remove the water from the ponds in a re-design. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono have announced the formation of a federal judicial selection commission to help to fill a seat on the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii. The seat will become vacant following the retirement from active service of Chief Judge Susan Oki Mollway on Nov. 6. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Neil Abercrombie — ‘I Am Who I Am’ The former governor is on the road ahead as a private citizen after a lifetime of public service. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Gov. David Ige is scrambling to save a "historic" arrangement to protect much of Oahu's Turtle Bay Resort from development after the $40 million taxpayer deal hit a snag over financing he helped arrange. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s plan to conserve 665 acres at Turtle Bay Resort may be in jeopardy after House lawmakers raised questions about a bill to extend the funding deadline for the $48.5 million agreement, which would require $40 million in state funds. Civil Beat.

Housing Program for Homeless Veterans Hits a Snag in Hawaii. Oahu’s tight housing market and landlords reluctant to take federal vouchers are keeping dozens of veterans from getting a place to live. Civil Beat.

The Pentagon is considering ordering the exhumation of nearly 400 sailors and Marines who died on the battleship USS Okla­homa on Dec. 7, 1941, and were buried as "unknowns" at Punchbowl cemetery, so they can be identified and returned to families. Star-Advertiser.

A Danish developer is planning to develop a major offshore wind energy project, which would include more than 100 turbines, in federal waters in Hawaii off Oahu’s northwest and southern coasts. Pacific Business News.

Oahu's homeless problem isn't really getting better. In fact, in some places it seems to be getting worse. KITV4.

Honolulu has been trying many options to get homeless off the streets and into shelters, but there’s no easy fix. Some refer to Kakaako as the third city, in the midst of a construction boom. But within this area is a growing community where, earlier this month, the count of makeshift shelters numbered 123. KHON2.

Hawaii

A University of Hawaii researcher has asked the state Board of Land and Natural Resources for a geothermal exploration permit to conduct a noninvasive geophysical study of the west rift zone of Hualalai, just north of Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi on Monday took aim at projects needed on both sides of the island to move Big Island tourism forward. Speaking at a meeting of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawaii, Kenoi pushed for improvements along Hilo’s Banyan Drive and a renewed effort to make Kona International Airport truly international. West Hawaii Today.

A state Department of Education administrator in Hilo is set to receive $325,000 to settle a wrongful termination case against the state. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii regulators have denied Paniolo Power Co. LLC’s request to consolidate the NextEra Energy Inc.-Hawaiian Electric Co. acquisition application and the Honolulu-based utility’s new energy plan into one discussion, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The state Attorney General’s Office is appealing a decision made last month to resume Medicaid reimbursements for a Hilo physician accused of fraud. Tribune-Herald.

While it’s not advancing, glowing or steaming, officials said Monday they were not yet ready to call the lower half of the June 27 lava flow dead. But that doesn’t mean there’s no room for optimism. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Police Chief Tivoli Faaumu will be the speaker at the Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner on April 14 at the Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu. Maui News.

Keopuolani Park near the playground area in Kahului was closed Monday morning because of a suspected unexploded ordnance found. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Maui Redevelopment Agency to discuss repairing Wailuku Municipal Parking Lot. MauiTime

Kauai

Kauai lawmakers secured over $60 million for projects across the island as part of the state budget passed by the House earlier this week. Garden Island.

Molokai

Dave Jung, President of the Lahaina Cruise Company, which operates the Molokai Princess, says the future of the Molokai ferry is in jeopardy as ridership is at an all-time low and more people choose to fly to Maui instead of taking the two-hour boat ride. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Co. barred from denying solar applications, excise tax surcharge advances, Calvin Say cleared, police kill, injure civilians during busy Big Island weekend, Honolulu, Hawaii County, Kauai mayors offer basic budgets, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Solar panels in Hilo © 2015 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission says Hawaiian Electric Co. can’t deny rooftop solar applications for any reason except technical difficulties. An agreement signed Friday by commission Chairman Randy Iwase and electric company CEO Alan Oshima says the utility has a duty to approve photovoltaic systems. Associated Press.

The price of oil has plummeted by more than 50 percent since July, falling to its lowest point in six years and buoying the hopes of cash-strapped residents that they will see major reductions in their electricity bills. But as statements covering February power usage begin rolling out, those residents may be disappointed by the relatively moderate dip in rates. Hawaiian Electric customers on Oahu, the Big Island and Maui will still be paying two to three times the national average for electricity. Civil Beat.

A proposal in the state Legislature that would give all Hawaii counties the opportunity to enact a 0.5 percent surcharge for public transportation projects on top of the 4 percent general excise tax is gaining some traction. Garden Island.

A Hawaii senator who is backed by the state’s powerful police union hit the brakes on a bill Friday that would have made public the names of officers suspended for misconduct. Civil Beat.

A coalition representing Native Hawaiian homesteaders has created a plan outlining ways to improve the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Their plan calls on the state government to fully fund the department, which is responsible for administering the Hawaiian Home Lands Commission Act. Associated Press.

A special panel of state lawmakers decided that Rep. Calvin Say meets the qualifications to serve in the House of Representatives, saying there was no compelling evidence behind a group of voters’ claims that Say doesn’t live in the district he represents. The House committee had been formed to investigate the latest challenge to former Speaker Say’s residency. Associated Press.

The commanding officer of the Pearl Harbor-based Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Mississippi was relieved of his duties Friday due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command, the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: A controversial staff hire and her persistent digs at the president have caused many to question U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Whether the criticism endures depends in large part on her. Civil Beat.

Oahu

After delivering a no-frills State of the City speech last week, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell will likely submit an equally low-key budget package to the City Council on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is seeking qualified applicants for the vacant post of city clerk. Former City Clerk Bernice Mau retired last year. Glen Takahashi, assistant city clerk, has been acting clerk since then. Star-Advertiser.

The Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services has received a $246,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for its programs that assist Hawaii public housing residents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Union-negotiated pay hikes and federal and state mandates contributed to a workaday county budget expected to rise 4.3 percent to $434.7 million next year. The 2015-16 spending plan released by Mayor Billy Kenoi late Friday has few new frills, projects or services. West Hawaii Today.

A 31-year-old Hilo man is hospitalized in critical condition after a police-involved shooting late Saturday night in downtown Hilo, police said. Lt. Greg Esteban said two officers were involved in the shooting, which occurred on the Kilauea Avenue extension in downtown Hilo, shortly before midnight. Tribune-Herald.

A 63-year-old Michigan man was killed Sunday after being struck by an on-duty Hawaii Police Department officer in what the Hawaii County Fire Department described as a hit-and-run incident on Waikoloa Road in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Following an outcry from local landscapers, Hawaii County has postponed implementing a program requiring commercial operators to haul their green waste to the landfills rather than dumping it at transfer stations. The program, originally slated to go into effect Monday, won’t be implemented until July 1. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is apparently looking into whether the Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. plantation is operating in compliance with federal clean air regulations. The agency sent a seven-page letter to the state's last remaining sugar grower Nov. 24, asking for documents and records about its biomass energy plant and cane burning operations. Star-Advertiser.

In a sign of Maui's worsening doctor shortage, Maui Memorial Medical Center is working on a contract with Kaiser Permanente to have its pediatricians cover patients at the hospital after private physicians told hospital officials they would no longer provide the service as of May 1. Maui News.

Alarm bells were rung again at the state Capitol on Friday, warning of the dire financial condition of Maui Memorial Medical Center and the Maui region of Hawaii Health Systems Corp. Maui News.

By early next month, a 40-bed skilled nursing and intermediate care facility may get the green light from the state to begin construction at the Maui Research and Technology Park in Kihei. Maui News.

Cary & Eddie's Hideaway Restaurant and Bar served its final last call Saturday night after being a mainstay eatery on Maui for 15 years. Maui News.

Rules for drones proposed. Maui enthusiasts offer differing opinions on FAA regulations. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County will start to charge property owners for garbage pickup based on the size of their trash bin. Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho, Jr. says the county is trying to reduce the waste going to the landfill. Associated Press.

County Managing Director Nadine Nakamura and Ernest Barreira, county assist procurement officer and budget team leader, presented the mayor’s budget analysis and recommendations at the Kauai Police Commission meeting Friday. The mayor intends to spread $8.2 million in cuts across all departments, agencies and offices. Garden Island.

For a little more than two decades, efforts have been made to divert not just discarded items but especially green waste from the Kekaha Landfill. Garden Island.

Ige returns from Washington, state economy stagnates, marijuana decriminalization advances, power companies & military top polluters, Hawaiian Electric CEO makes $5.6M, good reviews for Honolulu police chief, Kauai auditor settles, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ige at NGO conference, courtesy Governor's Office

Hawaii Gov. David Ige said Thursday that he met with several of members of President Barack Obama’s cabinet during his latest trip to Washington and talked about transportation funding, airports and Native Hawaiian sovereignty, among other topics. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige took advantage of his recent trip to Washington, D.C., to make a direct pitch to President Barack Obama, encouraging him to choose Hawaii as the location for his presidential library. Ige briefed reporters Thursday about his trip to the National Governors Association Winter Meeting last week as well as a variety of meetings he held with Cabinet members, including Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige took time Thursday to debrief reporters on his recent visit to Washington, D.C., highlighting his meetings with President Obama, federal officials and other governors. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige on Thursday released the names of the people on his transition team who have been advising him on key decisions to appoint members of his Cabinet, including the highly controversial nominee Carleton Ching. The governor’s transition team includes Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui; former vice president of Hawaiian Electric Co. Robbie Alm; real estate attorney Gordon Arakaki; Ige’s campaign manager Keith Hiraoka; University of Hawaii vice president Dan Ishii, who served as an assistant to former Gov. George Ariyoshi; Ige’s longtime office manager Joyce Kami; the governor’s Chief of Staff Mike McCartney; and Lorrie Stone, a land use attorney who is married to developer Jeff Stone. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige sent state senators a letter Thursday urging them to support Castle & Cooke lobbyist Carleton Ching to lead the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says the number of travelers visiting the islands declined 0.6 percent last month over the same month a year ago. Spending by travelers dropped 2.5 percent. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has set a target of hosting nearly 8.6 million visitors this year, up from the 8.3 million who came last year, despite a dip in January arrivals. The board also set a goal to increase visitor spending to $15.58 billion in 2015. Star-Advertiser.

It's going to be 2014 all over again for the state economy. Hawaii is expected to continue its moderate expansion this year with nominal gains in visitor arrivals, steady labor market improvement and additional income growth, the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization said in a report set for release Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Possession of an ounce or less of marijuana would be punishable by a fine of not more than $100 under a decriminalization bill that is moving through the state Senate. The Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday unanimously approved Senate Bill 879 to allow Hawaii to join 19 other states and the District of Columbia that have decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana. Star-Advertiser.

If Senate Bill 879 becomes law, getting busted with an ounce or less of marijuana would no longer be a petty misdemeanor. Hawaii News Now.

A bill that would relax the state's annual motor vehicle safety check requirement to allow vehicles on the neighbor islands to be inspected just once every two years has won the approval of the key House Consumer Protection Committee. Star-Advertiser.

A full suite of bills related to aquarium fishing continues to move ahead at the state Capitol, and several are set to be heard in the House Committee on Judiciary today. West Hawaii Today.

No Political Pedigree: Can Tulsi Gabbard’s Top Advisor Succeed in D.C.? Many questions surround the Hawaii congresswoman's pick of Kainoa Penaroza as her new chief of staff, mainly his lack of political experience that the job demands. Civil Beat.

It looks more and more like the Obama Presidential Library is headed for Chicago. But Honolulu could play the role of the second city. Hawaii News Now.

Thirty-five Hawaii facilities — mostly power companies, fuel industries and the military — combined to release 3 million pounds of toxic material into the islands' air, water and land in 2013, representing a 12 percent increase from the year before, according to data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Star-Advertiser.

Award-winning journalist Naomi Klein blamed Hawaiian Electric Co. for limiting the progress of solar energy during a motivating speech Thursday evening at the University of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Constance Lau, the president and CEO of Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., received $5.6 million in total compensation in 2014, more than the $3.8 million in compensation she received the previous year, according to the Honolulu-based firm's 2014 annual report released Thursday. Pacific Business News.

KHON2 has learned the state is issuing an order to Hawaiian Electric following the utility’s decision not to approve solar applications.

The nominating committee for state water commission members is accepting applications for one open position. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Wednesday the four-year term for the position begins on July 1. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha's handling of an incident involving an off-duty officer captured on video punching a woman at a Wai­pahu restaurant may have negatively affected his annual review, but the Hono­­lulu Police Commission still rated his 2014 performance as above average. For the third year in a row, the Police Commission determined Kealoha "exceeds expectation" in his annual review. Star-Advertiser.

According to  Dan Grabauskas, the executive director and CEO of the Honolulu Authority of Rapid Transportation, contract termination would set the city back $1.4 billion on top of the $1.3 billion that's already been spent. Then there are contract obligations at another $400 million and an estimated $100 million to tear down what's already been built. The grand total equals $3.2 billion, or about half what the rail project is now projected to cost. KITV4.

Despite City’s Sit-Lie Crackdown, Homeless Aren’t Moving Into Shelters. Instead, they're moving to other parts of the island as the city enforces bans on sitting and lying on sidewalks in Waikiki and business districts throughout Oahu. Civil Beat.

Bill 82 would create the Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District, where private sector funds would be collected for restoration and improvement projects. However, it's in the language--and the district boundaries---of the bill, where opposition is fervent. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu inflation remained far below its historical average and finished 2014 below the U.S. rate for the first time in 13 years, according to a report released Thursday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Star-Advertiser.

A hotel could be part of a new mixed-use project being planned for the corner of Kapiolani Boulevard and Atkinson Drive in Honolulu across from the Hawaii Convention Center and near Ala Moana Center, the developer told Pacific Business News.

In his State of the City speech Tuesday, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said he wants to tackle that negative perception of the island's parks by pumping $2 million for park refurbishments into the 2016 budget he will submit to the Hono­lulu City Council on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii Athletics Department is dealing with a projected $3.5 million deficit. But the department received a big donation from an unknown angel. An anonymous donor has given the athletics department $1.2 million. KHON2.

Hawaii

Some landscape companies are crying foul over a new county policy requiring them to truck their green waste to the Puuanahulu or Hilo landfills and pay a tipping fee to dispose of it. The requirements and tipping fee have been on the books since 2005, but Mayor Billy Kenoi’s administration delayed implementing them during the recession. The law is slated to go into effect Monday. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s chief scientist will step aside next month to focus on research. Associated Press.

Naalehu will lose its only grocery store today after Island Market shuts its doors. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A monthlong debate among Maui County Council members over whether to confirm the appointment of Maui County Prosecuting Attorney John D. Kim may come to a head at a special council meeting scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Maui News.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. has grown sugar cane in Central Maui for more than a century, but a company official said Wednesday that the last sugar plantation in Hawaii is now looking to move into biofuel production. Maui News.

Hawaii’s last sugar cane plantation wants to transition to growing plants for energy. But it hasn’t found another crop that grows as well as sugar cane in a variety of soils or one that can stand up to Maui’s strong winds. Associated Press.

Hawaii's last remaining sugar plantation might not stay a sugar plantation for long. An official with Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company says it has been looking into diversifying its crop, possibly moving more toward biofuel. Hawaii Public Radio.

The infestation of little fire ants in Nahiku is unlike any other in the state - and that may mean that eradicating one of the world's worst invasive species is hopeless if it's not dealt with quickly, an international ant expert said. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County Auditor Ernesto Pasion has reached a settlement in his retaliation and whistleblowers complaint against the county. Garden Island.

Kukui Grove Center installed a combination recycle and trash solar-powered system Wednesday in the food court area fronting the Starbucks Coffee and Jamba Juice  — making the shopping center the first in Hawaii to make the transition to such high-tech waste reducing bins. Garden Island.

The Garden Isle saw the biggest increase in visitor arrivals in January while overall traffic to the state was down slightly compared to the year before, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.