Future of Maunakea telescopes mulled, more shenanigans in Takai campaign account, Ige touts accomplishments, Maui mayor running for council, not lieutenant governor, Honolulu homeless woes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Telescopes atop Maunakea ©2018 All Hawaii News

Kim finalizing Maunakea committee: Mission statement emphasizes Native Hawaiians’ connection to the mountain, exploration. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii is restarting its effort to gain a new master lease for Maunakea that would allow observatories to continue beyond 2033. Tribune-Herald.

Senate Bill 3090, establishing the Mauna Kea Management Authority, will be heard on February 12. Big Island Video News.

Greg Chun has been appointed as senior advisor to University of Hawaii President David Lassner and UH Hilo Chancellor Marcia Sakai in overseeing the fulfillment of the responsibilities of the entire UH System on Maunakea. Hawaii 24/7.

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The presumably dormant re-election campaign for the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai has paid out close to $5,000 over the past year to purchase data from a Washington, D.C.-based campaign software vendor that tracks voter information. Star-Advertiser.

Five candidates for lieutenant governor who took part in an early forum at Democratic Party of Hawaii headquarters Saturday vowed to make the job more meaningful for the people of the state. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates for Lieutenant Governor face off in public forum. KITV.

Ige opens campaign offices. Supporters often praise Gov. David Ige, 60, for his soft-spoken, humble leadership style. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige uses launch of campaign headquarters to highlight success of term. Hawaii News Now.

Political candidates react to #MeToo sexual harassment issues in Hawaii. KITV.

Another Delay Sought For Surprise Care Home Inspections. Advocates for the elderly say unannounced inspections are long overdue but state officials foresee problems. Civil Beat.

Proposal to reduce frequency of safety checks works its way through Legislature. KHON2.

It might be game over for certain video games in Hawaii after state lawmakers introduced legislation to limit the implementation of electronic gambling systems within the popular pastime. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s Resistance To Trump Enters Cyberspace. A bill to encourage net neutrality envisions the possibility of a taxpayer-owned internet service provider. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii’s visitor industry, caught flat-footed in the aftermath of the false missile alert on Jan. 13, is partnering with the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency to prepare for future situations that could impact visitors. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly a month after a Hawaii Emergency Management Agency employee sent out an alert that a ballistic missile was headed to Hawaii, the agency is still trying to correct the record about what really plunged the isles into 38 minutes of needless panic and fear. Star-Advertiser.

One thing that was clear following the Jan. 13 missile scare in Hawaii is that the state does not have enough hospital capacity to handle a nuclear attack, which could involve mass casualties. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian Electric Cos. are asking the state Public Utilities Commission for approval to seek new renewable projects for Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Modernizing Hawaii’s Electric Grid For Less Than $1 A Month. Hawaiian Electric Co. needs to upgrade its distribution system to accommodate mushrooming rooftop solar. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Growing Waianae homeless camp at center of dispute at harbor. State and city lawmakers once looked at one of Oahu’s biggest homeless encampments — Puuhonua O Waianae next door to the Waianae Small Boat Harbor — as a potential model for what government-sanctioned homeless “safe zones” could look like across the islands. Star-Advertiser.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources officials believe the state-owned land beneath the Puuhonua O Waianae homeless encampment contains ancient burial sites, pre- and post-contact rock walls that have been destroyed, and a rare “Waianae lineage” of half-inch-long shrimp living in an underground cave system. Star-Advertiser.

City officials have received complaints that homeless people from a large encampment are dumping human waste into Pokai Bay, among other issues. Associated Press.

There are strict rules regulating daily life inside Puuhonua O Waianae — and those who repeatedly violate them are kicked out. Star-Advertiser.

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Cries over ‘poor door’ ignore worse segregation in affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable housing: Like all Hawaii real estate, it’s gotten more expensive. It’s also getting incredibly smaller. Star-Advertiser.

Woman receives $72 ticket after honking her horn at a police vehicle. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

North Kona Councilwoman Karen Eoff, the primary sponsor of a bill limiting vacation rentals on the island, has come under fire for her ownership of a vacation rental condo in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Picking fruit on some West Hawaii farms is more than just precarious. As soon as the trees start shaking, farmers and field workers are as likely to get an armful of little fire ants as a handful of coffee berries. West Hawaii Today.

Kona coffee farmers want label law expanded. Star-Advertiser.

Funding for Big Island Veterans Treatment Court is making headway in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

The opening of the Big Island’s first medical marijuana dispensary has been delayed. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa has submitted a candidate organizational report to the state Campaign Spending Commission showing his intention to run for the County Council’s Kahului residency seat. Maui News.

Maui County mayoral candidates file campaign spending reports. Guzman has the most cash on hand, with Victorino and Cochran next in line. Maui News.

Essential air service contract to expire. Anxiety in Kalaupapa rises as feds take new round of bids, including one with no subsidy. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park will hold a public meeting on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, to outline a proposed fee increase for the tri-park annual pass. Maui Now.

Maui’s only neurosurgeon, Dr. Thomas Rogers, has been unavailable for the past few months because of a health-related issue, forcing all patients needing examination or surgery to fly to Oahu for treatment, Maui Memorial Medical Center officials said. Maui News.

Kauai

Kani Wildlife Control offers solutions for eradicating unwanted wildlife. Garden Island.

Bikes on Rice begins monthly rides Tuesday around Lihue. Garden Island.

Molokai

A tangle of fishing nets the size of a large SUV washed ashore on the Northeast side of Molokai in Halawa Valley. KHON2.

Tourism outlook sunny, legislative committees advance pesticide bills, emergency shelters, vacation rentals, monster homes, 'survival sex' for young Honolulu homeless, plus Maui politics, Coco Palms lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach ©2018 All Hawaii News

Hawaii visitor arrivals and spending are expected to grow over the next four years. Speakers at the Pacific Asia Travel Association’s annual outlook and economic forecast forum tried to evaluate how much of a boon for Hawaii the latest forecast from the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism would be. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism said in a new report Hawaii’s overall economic condition in 2018 will be better than previously projected, as a result of the new tax reform bill. Pacific Business News.

Visitor accommodation units statewide increased to 80,336 units (+1.6%) year-over-year, the largest total ever recorded for the State of Hawaii, according to the 2017 Visitor Plant Inventory released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

Bills Introduced to Crack Down on Vacation Rentals, Monster Homes. Maui Now.

All new state buildings would have to be designed and built with shelter space capable of withstanding catastrophic disasters under a proposal making its way through the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

House Emergency Preparedness Task Force Bill Advances. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the hours before the state's infamous missile alert mistake, a documentary crew from NBC News was getting an exclusive tour of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, gathering material for a future story that was meant to focus on communications in the aftermath of an actual attack. Hawaii News Now.

Four bills are moving ahead in the state legislature, and lawmakers believe that a lack of action on the federal level will increase the likelihood that the bills will pass. The bills would regulate the use of some heavily used pesticides, including a popular herbicide called Roundup.  Hawaii News Now.

House Committee Advances Ban On Chlorpyrifos. Big Island Video News.

The House committees on Agriculture and Energy & Environmental Protection passed a complete ban on the pesticide chlorpyrifos during a hearing at the State Capitol on Thursday. Big Island Now.

A statewide ban on chlorpyrifos passed through two Hawaii House committees Thursday, along with measures for stricter restrictions on glyphosate herbicides and public notification requirements for pesticide application. Garden Island.

Modernizing Hawaii’s Electric Grid For Less Than $1 A Month. Hawaiian Electric Co. needs to upgrade its distribution system to accommodate mushrooming rooftop solar. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric reports 1 percentage point increase in renewable energy in 2017. Hawaiian Electric Cos., the state's largest utility company, said on Thursday it was able to increase its renewable portfolio standard to 27 percent during the past year. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Schools Can’t Seem To Give Breakfast Away. Nearly all of Hawaii’s public schools participate in the federal School Breakfast Program, but only 43 percent of low-income students who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches also take advantage of subsidized school breakfast. Civil Beat.

Another government shutdown — even a short one — has particularly bad timing for the Hawaii National Guard, which has its once-a-month drills this weekend. More than 4,500 Hawaii Army and Air Guard soldiers were expected to train Saturday and Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Young homeless on Oahu are forced into “survival sex”. Homeless youth on Oahu tend to have been abused by their parents, became homeless at the age of 14, on average, and generally live a dangerous and disturbing existence where most tried to kill themselves while others were forced to perform “survival sex,” according to the first study of its kind in four decades. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has a lucrative second job at Territorial Savings Bank, and that's raised concerns with members of the state Legislature. Now, legislators are considering a proposal that would prevent acting governors and mayors from having second jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Spill sends 10,000 gallons of sewage into Waianae drainage ditch. The Hawaii Department of Health is urging the public to stay away from a sewage-contaminated drainage ditch in a residential area near Waianae Mall. Hawaii News Now.

City reverses decision to reject gift aimed at supporting young athletes. KHON2.

A woman who stole more than $3.8 million from the company that publishes Honolulu Magazine through a scheme the judge called “intricate” and that the prosecutor said was “exquisitely executed” was sentenced in federal court Thursday to four years in prison. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Nature Conservancy has transferred ownership of 222 acres of land to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Tribune-Herald.

Lifeguard liability bills treading water. West Hawaii Today.

A state House committee voted Thursday to advance a bill to establish lifeguards at Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island Rep. Richard Creagan and the Hawaii County Council don’t think the Hawaii Department of Health is as serious as it should be about rat lungworm disease. West Hawaii Today.

After two meetings left local business owners with more questions than answers about the proposed surf school regulations, the county has postponed a looming deadline to bid on doing business at Kahaluu Bay. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Army National Guard is replacing its decades-old vehicle and equipment maintenance shop in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Was Maui Official Ousted For Skipping Mayor’s Campaign Event? The director of Maui’s Department of Water Supply is suing his boss after being placed on leave. Civil Beat.

New rental car tax proposed to help fund Lahaina, Paia bypasses. $4.50 per car, per day fee would help build state projects stalled in county. Maui News.

Ongoing discord among Maui County Council members has inspired the launching of campaigns for two candidates: former mayoral candidate and Council Member Alice Lee and Claire Kamalu Carroll, the 48-year-old daughter of Council Member Bob Carroll, who’ll retire this year. Maui News.

Maui resident and community organizer Tiare Lawrence is running for the State House representing Maui. KITV.

Two men who were arrested for allegedly harassing a monk seal in Lahaina could have felony charges dismissed if they make donations to a federal agency responsible for managing ocean resources. Maui News.

Businesses who use the EKO Compost facility that do not have a commercial account are being reminded by Department of Environmental Management officials that they are now required to set up an account and pay green waste tipping fees at $46 per/ton. Maui Now.

Kauai

Coco Palms Developer Fights Back With Its Own Native Hawaiian Research. A Hawaiian consultant disputes the claims of the occupiers of a planned resort site on Kauai. Civil Beat.

Milo Spindt, born in Lawai and now a Kalaheo resident, has pulled papers and is running for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Kapaa grocery store Cost-U-Less is closing after a quarter-century of doing business.  Garden Island.

Phyllis Ann De Graff Kunimura died Dec. 7. She was known as the “First Lady of Kauai” during her husband Tony Kunimura’s tenure as mayor. Star-Advertiser.

Ige seeks budget boost, Obama enjoying Hawaii holiday, condo poor door scrapped, 2.5% electric increase for Oahu, rat lungworm found in 94% of Hilo rats, Kauai mulls cut in vehicle tax, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Ige proposes budget, screen shot of news conference

Gov. David Ige presented his latest budget proposal Monday, announcing a package that increases state spending next year by $85.5 million to a total of nearly $14.4 billion. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Seeks $1.5 Billion Budget Hike For Infrastructure, Capital Improvements. The Legislature will consider approving the governor’s supplemental spending request when lawmakers reconvene next year. Civil Beat.

Ige asks Legislature for $1.5B increase to CIP budget as part of supplemental budget proposal. Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Monday unveiled his supplemental budget proposal for fiscal year 2019 in which he's asking the state Legislature for increases of $85.5 million to the general operating budget and close to $1.5 billion to the capital improvement project budget in comparison to the biennium budget. Pacific Business News.

Education, homelessness among governor’s priorities for next fiscal year. KHON2.

VIDEO: Governor Ige Presents Hawaii’s Supplemental Budget. Big Island Video News.

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Hawaii among worst states for economic freedom, study says. While Hawaii has seen a slight improvement, the state is still among one of the worst when it comes to economic freedom, according to a new report by the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Commercial real estate owners in Hawaii could 'hit the jackpot' with tax bill. The tax deduction for businesses structured as limited-liability companies and other pass-through companies contained in the tax bill is expected to be a substantial benefit for some commercial real estate owners in Hawaii and the rest of the nation. Pacific Business News.

Reminiscent of previous holiday vacations, Obama spotted in Hawaii again. Just like when he was president, Barack Obama is in Hawaii for the holidays. Hawaii News Now.

The state Health Department has started its first statewide media campaign to prevent rat lungworm disease, following the most recent case involving a Hilo resident who contracted the virus after drinking from a water hose. There have been 18 laboratory-­confirmed cases statewide this year. The Big Island has seen the most cases at 11, followed by Maui at six — including two tourists — and Oahu at one. Star-Advertiser.

Why Vocational Education Is Back In Vogue in Some Hawaii Schools. With only about half of Hawaii’s high school graduates going to college, schools are placing more emphasis on career and technical training. Civil Beat.

Hawaii legislator proposes solution to preserve net neutrality protections. One Hawaii legislator has come up with a novel concept to sidestep the Federal Communications Commission’s decision to repeal net neutrality protections — that Hawaii create a broadband network of its own and go into business for itself. West Hawaii Today.

State Representative Kaniela Saito Ing will propose legislation to explore the feasibility of public or community-owned, high-speed broadband in Hawaii. Maui Now.

Scoot’s first Singapore-Honolulu flight arrives today. Scoot, a low-cost airline out of Singapore, is scheduled to touch down this morning with the first direct flight out of that country to Honolulu in 25 years. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Residential tower’s plan for ‘poor door’ scrapped. The design for a planned residential tower near Walmart’s urban Honolulu store no longer has a front door for market-priced condominium buyers and a side door for moderate-income renters. Star-Advertiser.

Ala Moana High Rise Developer Removes ‘Poor Door’ From Proposal. The plan to create separate entrances for low-income residents was opposed by affordable housing advocates. Civil Beat.

Concerns over cost continue to delay vote on fire sprinkler bill. About 100 people packed Honolulu Hale Monday night to once again, voice their concerns over a bill mandating fire sprinklers in older high rise buildings. Hawaii News Now.

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HECO gets approval to raise customer fees by 2.5%. The state Public Utilities Commission has approved an interim base-rate increase by Hawaiian Electric Co. that will raise the typical monthly electrical bill for Oahu customers by about $2.82. Star-Advertiser.

State regulators approve first Hawaiian Electric rate increase in 6 years. Pacific Business News.

Approved HECO rate increase far lower than what utility asked for. Hawaii News Now.

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Many prefer homelessness to living in a no-pets shelter. The Hawaiian Humane Society wants to find out how many pets are living among Oahu’s nearly 5,000 homeless people — and how their love of animals might be preventing them from getting housed. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless H4 Project: Hygiene, Healthcare, Housing and Humanitarian Services. Emergency medical care for Honolulu’s homeless cost taxpayers millions of dollars each year. Hawaii Public Radio.

What To Do If You’re About To Be Homeless In Honolulu. Here are some suggestions about who to call for help. Civil Beat.

A&B confirms Pali Lanes site in Kailua to be redeveloped. Alexander & Baldwin plans to redevelop the Pali Lanes bowling alley site in Kailua into a central gathering place for the Windward Oahu town that will become the site for the Kailua farmers market, concerts and other community events. Pacific Business News.

City surpasses road repair goals, but acknowledges there's more to do. Hawaii News Now.

Ex-UH professor gets 6-plus years for child porn. A former University of Hawaii mechanical engineering professor who disseminated child pornography over the internet using a file-sharing program is going to prison for more than six years. Star-Advertiser.

Vandals break into mausoleum, scatter bones at cemetery.  Hawaii News Now.

A clogged sewer line at Sand Island Beach Park caused a large sewage spill at the popular multi-use park over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Kaneohe home sales jump, Hawaii Kai prices rise in November. Sales of single-family homes in Kaneohe jumped by 44 percent in November, compared to last year, while sales of condominiums in Waikiki grew by 46 percent in November, according to the local market update from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

KITV’s Cruz moves to Hawaii Public Radio. Veteran TV news reporter Catherine Cruz has joined Hawaii Public Radio as co-host of its weekday talk program. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kona’s airport is the Big Island winner in a proposed supplemental budget announced Monday by Gov. David Ige. The governor’s statewide approximately $14 billion operating budget is an $85.5 million increase, or about one-half percent more. In addition, $1.5 billion — a full 215 percent hike — is recommended for capital improvement projects statewide. West Hawaii Today.

Study sheds light on rat lungworm prevalence. New research released Monday shows that almost 94 percent of rats in the Hilo region are infested with Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the parasitic nematode that causes rat lungworm disease in humans. Tribune-Herald.

Hu Honua project faces delays after B&B owner sues Hawaii County over biomass plant. Hu Honua, the biomass power plant currently under construction on Hawaii’s Big Island, is facing yet another challenge. Pacific Business News.

Dozens denied entry to commencement. The University of Hawaii at Hilo might move next year’s fall commencement to a larger location after dozens of people were denied entry this year because Vulcan Gym was filled to capacity. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Ige’s budget includes airport, forest land money. Funds for Kahului Airport’s new tram, Maui County public hospitals, forest land and a lifeguard contract were the Maui County highlights in Gov. David Ige’s supplemental budget proposal unveiled Monday. Maui News.

Affordable housing in Lokahi project blessed. Nonprofit housing developer Lokahi Pacific held a blessing Monday for its new Mokuhau Affordable Subdivision, a cul-de-sac of 16 single-family homes that will go to first-time buyers. Maui News.

Iiwi Making Appearance in Lower Elevations. The endangered Iiwi, also known as the scarlet honeycreeper, have been making a rare appearance in residential areas Upcountry. Maui Now.

Kauai

Vehicle tax decreases proposed. A proposal to lower the county fuel tax and motor vehicle weight tax rates is on the agenda for Wednesday’s County Council meeting, set for 8:30 a.m. at the Historic County Building. Garden Island.

Kauai police responded to a report of a possible unexploded ordnance found at Kealia Beach on Monday. KITV.

Trump to touch down this afternoon, scientists alarmed by coral loss, Portlock beach access condemnation begins, Kauai Humane Society in turmoil, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Coral bleaching with yellow tang, file photo, © 2017 All Hawaii News

Scientists deliver alarming message about future of Hawaii's coral reefs. Hawaii's coral reefs and nearshore fisheries are facing unprecedented threats that put their future in question. Hawaii News Now.

A group of Hawaii scientists say nearly half of the state's coral reefs were bleached during heat waves in 2014 and 2015 and nearshore fisheries are declining. Associated Press.

New data released by local scientists show Hawaii's coral and reef fish are in serious decline. The Nature Conservancy presented a briefing at the State Capitol for lawmakers Thursday on how to better protect ocean resources. KITV.

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Trump packs a heavy schedule during short trip to isles. President Donald Trump’s overnight stay in Honolulu today is brief, but his planned meeting with the governors of Hawaii, Alaska and Pacific U.S. territories fits into the theme of his first official visit to Asia — bolstering U.S. defenses and prosperity — which takes place amid ongoing tensions with North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

They track air threats to Hawaii 24/7 and they're on high alert for Trump's arrival. At a secure, classified location on Oahu, 230 Hawaii Air National Guard member keep a constant watch over the state. Hawaii News Now.

Road closures begin as Waikiki prepares for president's visit. President Donald Trump and the first lady are scheduled to land Friday afternoon, staying the night before embarking on a 12-day tour of Asia on Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Some flights canceled ahead of Pres. Trump's arrival. Federal Aviation Administration flight restrictions due to Pres. Donald Trump's stopover in Hawaii on Friday has forced some companies to cancel flights. KITV.

‘Wish you weren’t here’: Hawaii prepares to welcome Trump. Associated Press.

Messages for the president. President Donald Trump will be arriving on Oahu on his way to meet with military authorities in Hawaii, as well as government officials across Asia. Garden Island.

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Bill Introduced Allowing Hawaii’s Foreign Fishermen Onshore. The crew members are currently confined to their vessels even when they are in port. Associated Press.

Will Inconsistencies in Survivors' Story Lead to a Criminal Investigation? What was first seen as a harrowing tale of survival for two Hawaii women is now coming into question. Hawaii Public Radio.

Shelter shortage, supply-stocking outlook among Hawaii’s hurricane concerns. New guidelines may already be too short for how long you should be prepared to be self-sufficient after an emergency like a hurricane. KHON2.

Hawaii has 132 dams. The vast majority are 'high hazard'. More than 90 percent of Hawaii's dams are considered "high hazard" dams, which means if they fail it could result in the loss of life. Hawaii News Now.

Highway statistics available at DOT website. Highway data — including pavement conditions, average annual daily traffic volume for state roads and locations of fatal traffic crashes for the years 2012 to 2016 — are now available on the state Department of Transportation website. Star-Advertiser.

Accountant is now accused of stealing $7M from Hawaii nonprofit. The new charges bring the total that Lola Jean Amorin is alleged to have stolen from the Arc in Hawaii to nearly $7 million. Hawaii News Now.

HEI’s earnings fall 52.8% due to 2016 merger breakup fee. A $90 million merger break-up fee swelled Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s third-quarter earnings a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries reports Q3 profit of $60M. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. reported net income of $60.1 million, or 55 cents per diluted share, for the third quarter, compared to net income of $127.1 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, for the same quarter last year, which included a termination fee related to NextEra Energy’s failed bid to buy Hawaii’s largest utility. Pacific Business News.

Casting underway for 'Moana' release dubbed in Hawaiian. Disney hit "Moana" is going to be dubbed in Hawaiian, and star Aulii Cravalho has announced she'll be reprising her role in the special release. Hawaii News Now.

Casting Call for Hawaiian Language Version of Moana. Maui Now.

Oahu

Lane to Portlock beach to be opened. The Honolulu City Council gave the OK for the city to initiate condemnation proceedings for an easement over a small lane off Portlock Road allowing surfers, fishers, beachgoers and other ocean enthusiasts public access to a section of beach at Maunalua Bay known as “Seconds.” Star-Advertiser.

Koa Ridge finally reaches building stage. Perseverance. That word was used several times during a ceremony Thursday in Central Oahu where it has taken developer Castle &Cooke Hawaii nearly 20 years to move from planning to building a residential community called Koa Ridge. Star-Advertiser.

Castle & Cooke broke ground Thursday on its 3,500-home Koa Ridge master-planned community in Central Oahu nearly 20 years after it was first proposed, with billionaire Chairman David Murdock vowing to use his own funds to finance the $2 billion mixed-use development on 576 acres between Mililani and Waipio. Pacific Business News.

David Murdock made a rare public appearance in Hawaii Thursday to kick off construction of the $2 billion Koa Ridge master-planned community that is being developed by a company he owns, Castle & Cooke, and financed by himself. Pacific Business News.

What’s At The Center Of The Case Against The Kealohas? Bank Fraud. The former HPD chief and his prosecutor wife are accused of using various methods, from forged documents to bogus rental leases, to defraud banks. Civil Beat.

Judge Dismisses Suit Challenging Secret Meetings About Police Chief. A lawsuit that could have nullified a $250,000 cash payout to former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha was dismissed Wednesday by Hawaii Circuit Court Judge Virginia Crandall. Civil Beat.

The 19-year-old accused of spray painting the Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole statue in Waikiki on Halloween pleaded no contest and was sentenced to two days in jail with credit for time served and four hours of community service. Associated Press.

Bishop Museum hires new leader from New York. The museum is expected to announce today that Melanie Y. Ide, a principal at Ralph Appelbaum Associates, the world’s largest museum exhibition design firm, will take the leadership role following a unanimous vote of the board of directors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor’s vision for peace monument on Mauna Kea includes end to division over TMT. Mayor Harry Kim made a plea for reconciliation Wednesday during his first public remarks about Mauna Kea since Gov. David Ige gave him the green light to pursue his vision for the mountain as a monument to peace. Tribune-Herald.

Lab’s Rat Lungworm Research Finally Gave This Man A Diagnosis. Promising work at the University of Hawaii Hilo is drastically underfunded while $1 million is spent on public education about the disease. Civil Beat.

A central sewer system for the Lono Kona neighborhood took a big step forward Thursday when the County Council agreed on maps and a funding plan. West Hawaii Today.

Hula Hulas, a new restaurant concept recently launched on the Big Island by San Diego-based Grand Restaurant Group, is the first location of five planned for Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Uber and Lyft have seemingly taken off since launching on Hawaii Island earlier this year, though some taxi drivers say the ride-hailing companies have hampered local cab business. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Navy schedules hearing to cover training impact. The U.S. Navy has scheduled a public hearing from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Maui High School for its draft environmental impact statements for personnel and weapons systems training between Hawaii and Southern California. Maui News.

Kauai

More options in animal control. Kauai Humane Society’s animal services contract with County of Kauai could be on the chopping block if the council’s 2018 legislative proposal package is accepted. Garden Island.

Humane society director resigns. A year after taking the helm as head of Kauai Humane Society, Executive Director Scott Pisani has handed in his resignation, and he’s keeping the reason under wraps. Garden Island.

 Lanai

Lanai readies the welcome mat for cruise ship guests. With 458 passengers, the Seabourn Sojourn is the largest cruise liner to call on island. Maui News.

Tax hikes loom as state spends more than it collects, universal basic income debated, dock strikes unlikely, snorkel deaths studied, Honolulu official leaving in wake of critical audit, Big Island biomass gets PUC approval, Kauai Syngenta changes hands, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol, courtesy Charles Freedman

For the second time in five years, the state is being warned that its tax collections likely won’t be enough to cover its costs in the years ahead, which may mean tax increases in Hawaii’s future. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Recently, some very notable people including Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook have been championing the idea of “universal basic income,” which basically is a payment from the government to individuals simply for being alive. Our Legislature latched onto that idea, passing House Concurrent Resolution 89. West Hawaii Today.


Ocean safety advocates are working on ways to gather more data to determine why so many more visitors die snorkeling in Hawaii than local residents. Civil Beat.


With the impacts of climate change bearing down on Hawaii, government officials and community members need to make some important decisions about the islands’ iconic coastlines, said Dolan Eversole, a coastal hazards expert with the University of Hawaii’s Sea Grant program. Civil Beat.

A political scientist, acting as an agent for the government of the Hawaiian Kingdom in international proceedings, believes the time is right to go forward with an International Commission of Inquiry at the Hague. Big Island Video News.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union said that early West Coast election results show an existing labor contract with waterfront employers represented the Pacific Maritime Association will be extended by three years. Pacific Business News.

New cases of mumps statewide have risen by close to 40 percent since late June, prompting health officials to continue monitoring the infection and encourage vaccinations. Star-Advertiser.


Oahu

An audit of the Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance Program administered by the city finds key deficiencies in several areas but says it generally meets federal requirements. Star-Advertiser.


City Community Services Director Gary Nakata is resigning from his post at the end of the week, Honolulu Managing Director Roy Amemiya said in a memorandum to Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s Cabinet officials late Friday. Star-Advertiser.

When the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission issued an order earlier this month accepting Hawaiian Electric Co.’s long-term plan for supplying power to customers, one part of the plan stood out: a 44 percent rate increase on Oahu over 10 years. Civil Beat.

A Hawaiian Electric Co. pilot program meant to encourage customers to shift energy use to the daytime has seen little interest. Star-Advertiser.

A leak in the basement of Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport may be a pricey problem to fix. Star-Advertiser.


The Fight To Save Ancient Hawaiian Archeological Sites. Fearing future development of a Leeward valley rich with cultural history, some community members are pushing for preservation. Civil Beat.

After months of fielding complaints from residents, the Nanakuli-Maili Neighborhood Board wants to stop what it sees as overuse of the Waianae Coast by commercial tour groups that locals say clog the beaches and prevent easy public access. Civil Beat.


A third Oahu neighborhood will be getting a restricted parking zone. KHON2.

Friday night's plane crash above Kunia is the latest incident in a string of single engine aircrafts that have gone down in Hawaii over the last year. Hawaii News Now.


The plane that went down is the second plane from Aircraft Maintenance and Flight School Hawaii to crash on Oahu in the last month. KITV.


The bodies of Dean Hutton, Gerrit Evensen, Heather Riley and Alexis Aaron were discovered late Saturday afternoon at the wreckage of the aircraft in the Waianae Mountains above Kunia. The Beech 19A, manufactured in 1969, took off from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport for a sunset flight Friday. Star-Advertiser.

For months, Hawaii store owners and residents have prepared for the end of Ward Warehouse — and now it's finally here. Hawaii News Now.

Hotel executive Kelly Hoen has managed six Hawaii hotels in a career that now sees her as area general manager for Outrigger. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

The state Public Utilities Commission approved Hawaii Electric Light Co.’s contract with a half-built biomass facility on the Big Island on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Utilities Commission informed Hu Honua Bioenergy on Friday that it approved its amended and restated power purchase agreement with Hawaii Electric Light Company. Tribune-Herald.

The state Land Board will hear oral arguments on a hearings officer’s recommendation in favor of the Thirty Meter Telescope land use permit Sept. 20 in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A long-awaited public gun range for Hawaii Island may finally get a shot at success, depending on how the County Council handles a resolution up for vote next week. West Hawaii Today.

International competition and retirements are decreasing the number of commercial orchid growers in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Once a $90 million project expected to wrap up in September, phase two of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening has grown to a $105 million project now planned to be substantially completed next August. West Hawaii Today.

Access to the shoreline park at Kohanaiki should be easier, now that a new frontage road has been completed by developers of a luxury community there. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County and a property owner have been unable to agree on a purchase price for a large parcel in Hakalau Valley. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui hospital raises fee but retreats after moms protest. The hospital raised the price for a private room to $672 from $152 on July 1 when Maui Health System, a subsidiary of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, assumed control of operations of Maui Memorial, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lanai Community Hospital in the largest privatization in state history. Star-Advertiser.

Construction costs could hit as much as $75 million for the Wailuku Parking and Events Facility, which includes a multilevel parking structure and three-story building for retail, Maui County offices and special events space. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. has been given the green light to expand its “Fast Demand Response” program from four to a projected 13 Maui businesses, which would receive bill credits to reduce their energy use with 10 minutes’ notice to stabilize the grid when demand exceeds generation. Maui News.

At least four repair projects are planned for sections of Piilani Highway in the vicinity of Kaupo, and one of them — the repair of Waiopai Bridge — has the remote community concerned because work could close the road for a month or more, according to Jonathan Starr, a board member of the Kaupo Community Association. Maui News.


Kauai

About three months after announcing a six-month freeze on filling new vacancies in county jobs, the administration is changing course. Garden Island.

Hartung Brothers take over Syngenta Kekaha operations. Garden Island.

A new affordable housing project in Poipu has an aggressive construction timeline. Garden Island.

Kauai’s strong tourism season seems to be good for some, but not all, businesses. Garden Island.

The U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs approved lease agreements to build community-based outpatient clinics on Kauai and Maui. The project construction will total $9.9 million. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai’s south shore is knee-deep in invasive algae. A new report from a team of scientists and volunteers provides a ‘good reality check for the community’ Maui News.

Engineers to present plan for ex-bombing range on Molokai. Public comment will be accepted during meeting scheduled for Kaunakakai. Maui News.

Hearings officer gives thumbs-up for Thirty Meter Telescope, Kauai man gets 4 years prison for harassing monk seal, 3-hour wait in line for Dunkin' Donuts, Honolulu $1.5M in arrears in collecting subsidized rents, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Telescopes on Mauna Kea © 2017 All Hawaii News

The Thirty Meter Telescope received a positive recommendation from hearings officer Riki May Amano, buoying the beleaguered project’s chances less than a year from a self-imposed construction deadline. Tribune-Herald.

A former Hilo judge is recommending the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project be granted a key state permit for work atop Mauna Kea, ending a lengthy contested case hearing that challenged the $1.4 billion project’s conservation district use permit. Star-Advertiser.

A construction permit should be granted for the Thirty Meter Telescope proposed for the summit of Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island, a hearings officer recommended Wednesday. Associated Press.

A retired Hawaii judge is recommending that the state land board approve a permit for the Thirty Meter Telescope, which would allow construction of the $1.4 billion observatory to proceed on a site atop Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

The hearing officer in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing has issued her decision, and is recommending a Conservation District Use Permit be granted, allowing the observatory to be built on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

A former Circuit Court judge has recommended that the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project be allowed to move forward atop Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

A hearings officer is recommending that a construction permit be granted for a giant telescope planned for a Hawaii mountain summit that some consider sacred. KITV.

The contested case hearing officer for the Thirty Meter Telescope is recommending that the controversial project move forward. KHON2.

Read the judge's full 305-page Thirty Meter Telescope report here.

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Community Services Block Grants: $3.7M Funding Uncertain. A joint legislative committee conducted a hearing on the status of federal funding for impoverished residents throughout the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii residents can stay up-to-date on more than 170 highway and road projects with a new interactive online map unveiled this week by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc. plans to speed up its ocean cargo service to the Republic of the Marshall Islands early next year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A federal program administered by Honolulu to subsidize rents for low-income people has $1.55 million in delinquent accounts but doesn’t have a debt collector, according to a city audit released this week. Civil Beat.

Officials with Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration told the City Council Public Works, Infrastructure and Sustainability Committee on Wednesday that they will look at ways of expanding sewer capacity on Oahu in response to concerns that applicants for accessory dwelling units are being turned away because of the limitation. Star-Advertiser.

Two Honolulu City Council members have introduced legislation that would ban cigarette smoking in motor vehicles carrying children under 18. Star-Advertiser.

A new bill introduced by two Honolulu City Councilmen takes aim at smoking in vehicles while a minor is present. Hawaii News Now.

City council considers banning smoking in vehicles in presence of minors. KHON2.

Using an electronic device while crossing the street on Oahu will soon be illegal. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is expected to sign into law Bill 6 Thursday, which bans pedestrians from using cell phones and other electronic devices while crossing the street. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell will sign Bill 6 into law Thursday afternoon. The law makes it illegal to look at a cellphone or other electronic devices while crossing a street or highway on Oahu. KITV.

It could soon cost businesses more to sell alcohol on Oahu. That’s because the fee to hold a liquor license may be going up, in some cases double what it is now. KHON2.

Group Pushes Street-Level Rail For Honolulu. Salvage the Rail proposes ditching the over-budget elevated railway plan in much of the city. Civil Beat.

On Oahu, the latest report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors found there was 2.7 months of remaining inventory for single-family homes and 2.8 months of remaining inventory for condos, meaning that if no more listings came on the market, the homes would sell out in that amount of time. Those numbers have been less than three months for nearly a year. Pacific Business News.

Olomana golf course appeals to state, military on flooding and late rent. Star-Advertiser.

The Diamond Head Lighthouse that stands today has been a lifesaving navigational beacon for the past 100 years, preventing vessels from running aground on the jagged reef over which it presides. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Honolulu residents waited up to three hours Wednesday morning to get their hands on freshly made Dunkin' Donuts at the company’s opening of the first Hawaii store in more than 10 years. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Smoke caused evacuation of the control room of the Keck 2 telescope atop Mauna Kea Wednesday afternoon. Tribune-Herald.

After months of planning and discussion, Hawaii County is moving forward with plans to clean up the Old Airport Park. West Hawaii Today.

A smarter, stronger, more reliable electrical grid is the goal of Hawaiian Electric’s modernization plan to be discussed during two public meetings next week on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Wide loads of materials for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope will close Haleakala’s summit to visitors from 10 p.m. Tuesday through 2 p.m. Wednesday, according to an announcement from the National Park Service. Maui News.

County considering an expansion of ag park with former sugar land. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines is seeking candidates for customer and ramp service contract positions at Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Building A ‘Farewell Place’ For Maui Pet Owners. A woman gathers a group of volunteers to construct a facility at the Humane Society where people can say goodbye. Civil Beat.

Kauai

A 20-year-old Eleele man has been sentenced to four years in prison for harassing a pregnant Hawaiian monk seal on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Fifth Circuit Judge Kathleen Watanabe on Wednesday sentenced 20-year-old Shylo Kaena Akuna of Lihue to serve four years in prison for harassing a critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal last year at Salt Pond Beach Park in Hanapepe, Kauai. Civil Beat.

A Lihue man accused of beating up a monk seal will serve four years in prison. Garden Island.

County approves collective bargaining agreement. Some Kauai council members do not believe it is the right time to approve firefighter raises. Garden Island.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources removed nearly 11 tons of garbage from the Napali Coast in ongoing efforts to clean up the area DLNR officials reported Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Lifeguard lawsuit immunity ends, Matson strike averted, Oahu historic property tax hike advances, hemp plans progress, Maui hospital takeover complete, journalists win SPJ awards, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii lifeguards © 2017 All Hawaii News

 A 15-year-old state policy granting immunity to county lifeguards from civil liability ended Friday, but it’s business as usual for the roughly 350 of them as they patrol Hawaii waters this Independence Day weekend. Star-Advertiser.

With mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus continuing to be a threat to Hawaii, the state is ramping up its vector control capacity in an effort to help prevent an outbreak — or at least meet one with greater force. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Companies has submitted a draft of its plan to modernize the power grids on the five Islands it serves to bring more renewable resources online. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii is going to need more caregivers. The state’s seniors, those 65 and older, made up 17.1 percent of Hawaii’s 1.4 million residents in 2016 — a jump from 14.3 percent in 2010, according to recently released data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

‘What Does The US Government Have Against Grandmothers?’ Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin says the Trump administration’s scaled-back travel ban is illogical in establishing close family relationships. Civil Beat.

Hawaii and Undocumented Immigrants: Part 2. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Navy is planning to forward-deploy another three-ship “amphibious ready group” in the Pacific — a move that will add to highly prized ship-to-shore capability in the maritime-dominated region as well as bring more than 4,400 sailors and Marines and millions of dollars in economic impact to the chosen destination. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono thinks it should be in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

A new, 154-foot Coast Guard “fast response cutter” scheduled to be commissioned in Hono­lulu in October represents the first in a series of new cutters anticipated in coming years as District 14 revitalizes a fleet that’s between 25 and 50 years old. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc. reached an agreement with two key unions Friday, avoiding a strike that posed a threat to Hawaii’s supply of everything from food to building materials. Civil Beat.

Matson has been able to avoid a strike after reaching a tentative contract agreement with two of its unions, with only hours to spare before the expiration of the current contract. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu-based Matson Inc. on Thursday said it will pay its shareholders a third quarter dividend of 20 cents per common share. The shipping company said the figure represents a 5.3 percent increase over the previous quarter's dividend. Pacific Business News.

The cost of a private ­school education in Hawaii continues to climb as the state’s largest independent schools are charging on average 4.5 percent more in tuition for the upcoming school year, according to a Honolulu Star-Advertiser analysis, with most school officials citing the cost to retain good teachers as their biggest expense. Star-Advertiser.

After months of delay, the state Department of Agriculture is moving forward with its goal of developing a line of Hawaii hemp seeds and an eventual statewide hemp industry. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Owners of Oahu properties designated historic residences would need to pay $700 more annually under a bill that has received an initial nod from the City Council Budget Committee. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii Circuit Court judge ruled Friday that the city must turn over documents to Civil Beat related to embattled deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha’s employment with the Honolulu prosecuting attorney’s office. Civil Beat.

The median rent for a two-bedroom unit in Honolulu in June rose to $2,120 a month, nearly $1,000 more than the national average, a new report shows. Star-Advertiser.

For years, city transit officials have struggled to meet Oahu’s demand for Handi-Van service — a demand they say is the highest in the nation per capita. Now, without a fare increase, the service will be stretched “to the point of failure,” those officials are telling City Council members. Star-Advertiser.

UH football player possibly paralyzed after diving in waters off Waikiki. KITV.

A plan to dismantle a breakwater to prevent risky dives on Oahu's south shore is moving forward. Hawaii News Now.

Officials renamed the city’s aquatic center in Waipio in honor of the late U.S. Rep. K. Mark Takai during a ceremony Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

On A Mission To Save Hawaii’s Most Endangered Native Plants From Extinction. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Civil Beat Named Hawaii’s Best News Site For 7th Straight Year. The Hawaii Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists makes its annual award presentations. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

State Senator Josh Green has officially asked Governor David Ige to declare a state of emergency in West Hawaii over the ongoing water crisis. Big Island Video News.

County scrambles to fix wells but repairs more than a week away. West Hawaii Today.

A revised bill banning disposable polystyrene — popularly known as “styrofoam” — is coming back to the Hawaii County Council next week. Tribune-Herald.

Kona’s Community Development Plan was upheld as law Monday by the Intermediate Court of Appeals, sending a proposed development back to the county Planning Department. West Hawaii Today.

Kona coffee farmer tries to stay upbeat amid deportation proceedings. Star-Advertiser.

On June 23, the Hawaii County Council voted to adopt a resolution to award a Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Maintenance Stewardship Grant to Na Mamo o Kāwā. Big Island Video News.

West Hawaii Today won six awards, including two first-place honors, in the annual journalism contest hosted by the Hawaii chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital, and Lanai Community Hospital officially transferred operations from state provider Hawaii Health System Corporation to Maui Health System, a subsidiary of Kaiser Permanente, on Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

The Maui Region staff has created a legacy video to document this day as the Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital, and Lānaʻi Community Hospital become part of the Maui Health System, a subsidiary of Kaiser Permanente. Maui Now.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs wants faster, stricter protections for central Maui sand dunes after Always Investigating exposed the extent of sand exports and business connections on Oahu. KHON2.

With news of possible further mining of the sand dunes of Central Maui, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees has formally called for a halt to the practice. Star-Advertiser.

Summit focuses on affordable housing hurdles. Maui News.

Maui News staffers and a columnist received 11 awards, including five first-place honors, from the Society of Professional Journalists Hawaii Chapter during the 2016 Excellence in Journalism Awards ceremony Friday night on Oahu. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Humane Society is currently finalizing its contract with Kauai County, but it’s expected the county will contribute around $795,000 in Fiscal Year 2017-18. Garden Island.

An intern at the Limahuli Garden and Preserve came across a dead snake on her morning jog along Kuhio Highway in Haena Friday. Garden Island.

Hanalei Watershed Hui and the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary have partnered together to protect their corner of the planet. Garden Island.