Ige pressured to veto vacation rental tax bill, FBI investigates false tsunami alert, Kealoha trial to begin, Caldwell signs perks for affordable rentals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii vacation rental ©2019 All Hawaii News

Coalition Pressures Ige To Veto Vacation Rental Bill. A new television ad warns of legitimizing illegal vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

Governor Mulls Passed Bills for Signature or Veto. Governor David Ige has one month to let lawmakers know which bills he intends to veto. His staff is currently reviewing other bills for him to sign or for passage without his signature. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii has seen a 50% jump in tourists since 1989, but spending has remained flat. Last year, the state had a record number of nearly 10 million tourists. That’s a 50 percent jump in 30 years. But spending is unchanged at $18 billion. Hawaii News Now.

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PTWC, FBI investigating false tsunami alert over international system. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center is investigating a false tsunami alert that startled some Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

It was not as widespread as the false ballistic missile threat of last year -- but it was just as fake. Just before 4:30 this afternoon, a false tsunami threat was spread around the world through official channels. KHON2.

Fake Tsunami Report Issued on Fabricated Large Quake. Authorities with the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center are calling an email report that was distributed at around 4:33 p.m., a false tsunami message.   The email appeared to be from an email address at the warning center. Maui Now.

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Hawaii among states suing over Trump’s anti-abortion rule. Hawaii Attorney General Clare E. Connors today joined a coalition of 23 cities, states, and municipalities, in filing a lawsuit against a set of revised rules issued by the Trump Administration that the plaintiffs said would allow businesses and individuals to refuse health care on the basis of religious beliefs or moral convictions. Star-Advertiser.

Debate over abortion laws hits the streets of Honolulu with supporters and opponents. Hawaii activists rallied Tuesday both for and against new abortion laws sweeping across states on the mainland. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kealohas’ trial set to start today. It’s put-up-or-shut-up time for federal prosecutors in the conspiracy trial of retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

‘The Mailbox Trial’: Prosecutors prepare to make public corruption case against the Kealohas. In June 2013, a mailbox was plucked from its post in the middle of the night outside then-Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s home in Kahala. Hawaii News Now.

In what would be an unprecedented move, several Honolulu City Council members want to take the Honolulu Police Commission to court over whether the city should pay former Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s legal fees. In what would be an unprecedented move, several Honolulu City Council members want to take the Honolulu Police Commission to court over whether the city should pay former Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s legal fees. Star-Advertiser.

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Mayor signs Affordable Rental Housing Bill. Bankers, builders and housing advocates flanked Mayor Kirk Caldwell as he signed the Affordable Rental Housing Bill into law Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Affordable Housing Pilot Program Signed Into Law. A measure to promote the building of affordable rental units in Honolulu is now a law. Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed Bill 7 Tuesday after it passed the City Council earlier this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

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It’s Too Soon For A Pedestrian Safety Commission, Council Panel Decides. Honolulu’s transportation chief says the city should first consider a newly released plan to protect pedestrians. Civil Beat.

There’s Still No Word On How Much Honolulu Rail Will Cost —To Ride. Interim service looms next year, but city officials don’t know what the fares will be, and no formal proposals have been made. Civil Beat.

Rezoning preservation land for Kaneohe homes draws community ire. A developer's proposal to turn Kaneohe preservation land into a housing development has cleared key steps toward re-zoning. KHON2.

Dillingham Ranch back on the market. A California company has put Oahu’s Dillingham Ranch up for sale after positioning the 2,721-acre property for subdivision with homes in the face of heated community opposition. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big boost for nonprofits: Council votes to increase grants to $2.5 million. Hawaii Island nonprofits could soon see a big boost in county grants, thanks to action Tuesday by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Why Bikini Islanders Bought Land On The Big Island. The Micronesians have been nomads since the U.S. tested nuclear weapons there in the 1940s and 1950s. Civil Beat.

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Power poles at Puna geothermal plant are ‘smoldering’. Four wooden power poles installed by Hawaiian Electric Light Co. a week ago along a new road opened by the Puna Geothermal Venture are “smoldering” due to residual heat from last year’s Kilauea Volcano eruption. Star-Advertiser.

After residual underground heat caused four wooden poles on Puna Geothermal Venture property to smolder, the utility said it will immediately replace them with steel poles. Big Island Video News.

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Dolphin swimming ban under final review. Approaching and swimming with Hawaiian spinner dolphins is moving closer to being a thing of the past as federal officials work toward finalizing a rule outlawing the practice that’s created a booming tourism industry in West Hawaii and around the state. West Hawaii Today.

County OKs plans for former Hilo Lanes. The county approved a Hilo businesswoman’s plans to turn the former Hilo Lanes building into a fitness gym and commercial center. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County fears settling injection well case could lead to more suits, fines. Council members want county to settle, pull it from US Supreme Court. Maui News.

Conservation Leadership Program Accepting Applications. Applications are now being accepted for Na Hua Hoohuli i ka Pono, a service-learning program designed to help develop Maui’s next generation of conservation leaders. Maui Now.

Kauai

Pesticide pushback grows. While Kauai beekeepers celebrated the canceled registration of some pesticides in the Federal Register, some remain concerned about threats to their honey. Garden Island.

Former homeowners sue Bank of America. Three people who lost their homes on Kauai are suing Bank of America for purportedly using deceptive, unethical and illegal business practices to manipulate the outcome of foreclosure auctions. Garden Island.

Hawaii growth slows, criminal convictions don't stop pensions, Caldwell to sign affordable rentals bill, Army boots journalist, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki crowds ©2019 All Hawaii News

Slower Growth Across the Islands. Economists at the University of Hawaii have done statewide economic forecasts for years. But now they’re extending that research to the county level. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill to cut pensions for convicted government employees stalled for years. Lawmakers failed this session to pass legislation that would strip state or county employees of retirement benefits if convicted of a felony. West Hawaii Today.

Last-Minute Opposition Almost Derailed Smartphone Privacy Bill In House. Late lobbying from the wireless industry led to an 11th-hour attempt to defeat House Bill 702. Now it awaits a decision by the governor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii hospitals are increasingly moving medical services to less expensive outpatient facilities to reduce health care costs. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Caldwell likely to sign Affordable Rentals Bill. A bill offering significant building bonuses and breaks from taxes and fees to entice owners of smaller Oahu apartment- zoned properties to develop affordable rentals is expected to be signed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell this week. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor focuses on Chinatown cleanup. The city and county says it's doing what it can to clean up Honolulu's Chinatown. Now, the mayor is calling out the state to do more. KITV.

A major redevelopment of Waimanalo Bay Beach Park has caught residents by surprise, even though it has been talked about for years. Community outrage has been simmering over the city’s ongoing removal of trees and other foliage from the area better known as Sherwood Forest to build the first phase of a regional ball field complex and parking lot. Civil Beat.

City looks to revise bulky item pilot project. Condominium and apartment owner associations critical of the city’s new appointment-only pilot program for bulky item pickups have convinced officials to review the program. Star-Advertiser.

In Waikiki, you can’t park there... Or can you? When you see a no parking sign attached to a parking meter, what do you do? It’s a tough question in a place where parking is challenging, like Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Florence Puana discusses hardship and heartbreak in Kealoha trial. One way or another, the jury in the federal conspiracy trial of retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, will hear from the latter’s 99-year-old grandmother. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency repairs to Pali Highway on track to finish in August. Emergency repairs to Pali Highway following February’s landslide and rockfall are on track, and the limited hours of access to the tunnel by motorists remain the same, according to state transportation officials. Star-Advertiser.

Box Jelly, a pioneering co-work space on Kamani Street in Kakaako near Ward, is helping manage a new, strikingly modern building developed by the Hawaii Technology Development Corp., the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s entity in charge of growing the technology sector. HTDC has set out to create 80,000 new technology and innovation jobs earning more than $80,000 annually by 2030. Such jobs are essential in a state where nearly half of the households earn less than the $72,000 a family of four needs to eke out a decent life. Civil Beat.

New lawsuit provides window into alleged defects at ultraluxury Kakaako tower. The association of condo owners at Waiea, a high-rise within Ward Village, filed a lawsuit in state court last week alleging their building is unsafe, uninhabitable and devalued due to more than 100 construction defects. Star-Advertiser.

Central YMCA On Atkinson Drive To Be Sold For Development. In a media release, Board Chair Wayne Hamano said the decision to sell the property was based on the high costs associated with operations and maintenance. Hawaii Public Radio.

New city survey asks Honolulu residents which views they cherish most from Aloha Tower, Keehi Lagoon to Pearl Harbor. The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting is conducting an online survey, asking residents which views of the city they want to be protected as urban Honolulu develops. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

PGV talks with HELCO are ongoing. As Puna Geothermal Venture moves toward restarting following last year’s Kilauea eruption, a new power purchase agreement with Hawaii Electric Light Co. might be on the table. Tribune-Herald.

Laaloa Beach Park revamp remains stalled after two years. An iconic Alii Drive park area continues to wait for a facelift that’s now two years in the making. West Hawaii Today.

County Game Management Advisory Commission wants a game management plan for Hawaii Island, but they don't want the state to write the plan by themselves. Big Island Video News.

Businessman plans market, cultural demonstration site to help Pahoa. One of the proponents of a new farmers market and cultural demonstration site in Pahoa says it’s all about helping the town survive. Tribune-Herald.

More security sought for Kamakana Villages. When Kamakana Villages welcomed its residents at the start of last year, the new development was roundly regarded as a critical piece to the puzzle of providing more affordable housing to the region’s residents. West Hawaii Today.

Army boots WHT from public meeting. West Hawaii Today was banned from a meeting Thursday outlining Army plans to manage historic resources at Pohakuloa Training Area and Kawaihae Military Reservation. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County budget passes on first reading, with amendments. Council’s version contains $40 million more than mayor seeks. Maui News.

Hawaii leaders have done little to fix overcrowding issues at jails. For inmates at the Maui Community Correctional Center, it’s not unusual to be crammed four to a cell, leaving two to sleep on the floor while trying to keep their head away from the toilet.  Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Proposing a secondary school. More than one proposal is in the works for a middle and high school on Kauai’s North Shore. Garden Island.

Caldwell: Feds won't pull rail funding, plus University of Hawaii tuition freeze, Zuckerberg lawsuit continues, Aila as DHHL chairman, state Supreme Court hears Pohakuloa Training Area case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Crews working on Waiawa rail station PC: HART

Honolulu Mayor Confident Feds Won't Pull Rail Funding. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the city's $9.2 billion rail project isn't in danger of losing federal funds, so long as it builds all 20 miles of the planned transit line. Hawaii Public Radio.

No Link Between Honolulu, California Rail Troubles, Local Leaders Say. Federal officials just cut nearly $1 billion for California’s ambitious high-speed rail project, but local leaders say Honolulu is better poised to secure its remaining cash. Civil Beat.

Contractor must improve fireproofing of rail cars. The company building train cars for the Honolulu rail line must retrofit 24 cars that have already arrived in Hawaii to make them more fire resistant, according to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

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University of Hawaii to collect oral histories of Barack Obama’s early years in Hawaii. The University of Hawaii announced today that it is collecting oral histories of President Barack Obama’s early contacts in Hawaii for the Obama Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii Tuition freeze gets nod. The University of Hawaii has approved a three-year freeze of undergraduate tuition rates at all 10 campuses and a reduction of graduate tuition at UH Manoa, starting in the fall of 2020. Star-Advertiser.

UH Board of Regents approves tuition freezes, cuts. In a bid to reverse enrollment declines, the University of Hawaii will freeze tuition for undergraduates for three years and cut graduate tuition rates. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige has appointed William Aila as chairman of the Hawaiian Homes Commission and director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, effective Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Iolani Palace names KITV anchor Paula Akana its executive director. The board of directors for Friends of Iolani Palace chose her to succeed Kippen de Alba Chu, who left the position in January after 12 years. Star-Advertiser.

In time for Tokyo Olympics, Hawaiian Airlines wins another Haneda flight slot. Hawaiian Airlines has been tentatively awarded a new flight slot at Tokyo Haneda airport. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

3 warships, 4,500 sailors and Marines visit Pearl Harbor during deployment. Three San Diego-based Navy warships and about 4,500 sailors and Marines stopped in Pearl Harbor for training and replenishment at the start of a deployment to the Indo-Pacific and Middle East. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Liquor Commission votes to revoke controversial store's license. Maunakea Liquor & Grocery in Chinatown is on the verge of losing its liquor license. KITV.

Thousands of Local 5 members will rally at the world’s largest Hilton Friday. UNITE HERE Local 5 members who work at Hilton Hawaiian Village will rally at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Side on Paoa Place near Tropics Friday. KITV.

Safety concerns arise regarding other crosswalks in Pearl City. The crosswalk where 17-year-old Victoria Arellano was hit, isn't the only one in Pearl City residents are worried about. There are concerns about others on Waimano Home Road. KHON2.

Next month Biki turns two, and operator Bikeshare Hawaii says they have found a “sweet spot” by anticipating rider demand and opening docking space at key locations during crucial times of the day. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Supreme Court to determine whether state did its job to oversee Pohakuloa Training Area. The Hawaii Supreme Court heard oral arguments today in a case in which the state is being accused of not doing enough to ensure the U.S. Army isn’t trashing the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island under the terms of its 65-year lease with the state. Star-Advertiser.

State’s highest court hears challenge to live-fire training on Big Island ceded lands. In a case that echoes the battle to stop bombing of Kahoolawe, the state Supreme Court heard arguments Thursday over the Army’s live-fire training at the Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

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To raise or not to raise? Salary Commission punts until next month. With union-negotiated raises for county rank-and-file workers averaging 2% to 3% annually, the county Salary Commission is grappling once again with whether to raise salaries for the top 40 county officials during a tight budget year. West Hawaii Today.

Two retired Hawaii Police Department officers indicted Monday on criminal charges by a Kona grand jury appeared in Hilo Circuit Court Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Even as the University of Hawaii is moving forward with administrative rules to govern public and commercial activities on UH-managed lands on Mauna Kea, the president of the university is contemplating some changes to the Mauna Kea management structure. Big Island Video News.

Scientists consider raising Mauna Loa alert level. Mauna Loa was at an “advisory” level from September 2015 to June 2018 due to increased seismic activity. Since then, it has remained at “normal,” which suggests a background state. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Bill would restrict use of plastic foodware. Vendors point to high cost of compostable alternatives. Maui News.

The three Rotary clubs of Lahaina recently installed 33 yellow rescue tubes at nine West Maui county beach parks. The rescue tubes are to provide assistance to swimmers in distress. Maui News.

Kauai
Zuckerberg lawsuit moves on. A Fifth Circuit judge on Thursday said he intends to allow attorneys to move forward with a lawsuit contesting the sale of several land parcels on Mark Zuckerberg’s North Shore estate, although that may change if the land changes hands next month. Garden Island.

County agency food drive falls short. Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami was obviously disappointed and frustrated Wednesday morning while watching the collection of food come together at the Moikeha Building. Garden Island.

Ige urges resurrection of water rights bill, vacation rental bills sent to Honolulu mayor, eruption communication criticized, gas prices up 5 cents, homeless rousting continues, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pipe brings water down from mountain ©2019 All Hawaii News

Gov. David Ige urges Hawaii Legislature to resurrect water rights bill opposed by environmentalists. Gov. David Ige is prodding state lawmakers to resurrect a controversial bill that would give public water users, including Alexander & Baldwin, the electrical utilities, farmers and others, more time to meet stringent requirements for obtaining long-term leases, a move that has angered opponents of House Bill 1326. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Calls For Reconsideration Of Water Bill. The governor says passage of the stalled measure is in the public interest but critics called it an abuse of Ige’s position. Civil Beat.

Governor Asks Lawmakers to Revive Water Rights Bill. Gov. David Ige has asked state lawmakers to revive a bill that would extend water permits held by private users, a measure that a Senate committee shelved earlier this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor Urges Lawmakers to Take Action on Controversial Water Bill. Maui Now.

Ige accused of trying to bring back ‘zombie bill’ on contentious water rights issue. Gov. David Ige has taken the unusual step of asking lawmakers to revive a hotly debated measure that many thought was dead for the session. Hawaii News Now.

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Aloha State sees increase in gas prices. The average price of gas in the state increased a nickel or more in the past week and 24 cents higher in than a month ago, said GasPrices.AAA.com. KHON2.

Hawaii jobless rate climbs to 2.8%. Hawaii’s unemployment rate, reflecting slowing growth in the state economy, resumed its upward trend in March and climbed to a 28-month high of 2.8%. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Battle lines take shape as 2 vacation rental bills advance. When it comes to the thorny issue of vacation rental homes on Oahu, it seems the clearer the issue gets, the more complex the answers appear to be. Star-Advertiser.

Short-Term Rental Regulation Advances at Honolulu Hale. On Wednesday, the Honolulu City Council held a public hearing on the latest proposals to rein in Oahu’s vacation accommodations, like those rented on Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO. Hawaii Public Radio.

After several years of debate, a measure to regulate monster homes on Oahu is awaiting Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s signature. The bill passed the City Council Wednesday, but the head of the department that will enforce the proposed rules says some details need to be hammered out. Associated Press.

A bill regulating so-called monster homes on Oahu is now in the hands of Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. KITV.

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Police investigating reported kidnapping of attorney tied to Kealoha corruption probe. Chris Woo once represented Jesse Ebersole, a Big Island firefighter who told the court he had a long-term affair with Katherine Kealoha and said he lied to the federal grand jury to protect her and hide their romantic relationship. Hawaii News Now.

City plans second interim rail opening. In a significant change to the much-anticipated rollout of the Honolulu rail line, the city is now planning to open new segments of rail in 2020 and in 2023 before finally opening the entire 20-mile line in 2025. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Assures Caldwell Of Ala Wai Flood Control Financing Plan. The latest letter in the saga over canal flood control informs city leaders that at least some dollars have been committed to the project. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilmember-elect Tommy Waters is eager to hit the ground running. Waters says there's a 20-day waiting period where the City Office of Elections can audit the results from Saturday's District Four Special Election. KITV.

Inspection leads to boat blaze at Honolulu Harbor. U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel Thursday were inspecting a fishing boat at Pier 16 when a neglected stove apparently caught fire, leading to a spectacular blaze. Star-Advertiser.

Coast Guard: Blaze on fishing vessel started during Customs inspection. Hawaii News Now.

Can A Sustainable Industry Be Built From An Invasive Species? A landmark project on the UH Manoa campus shows the albizia tree’s potential as a building material — and the challenges of developing manufacturing in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Civil Defense on the hot seat. Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno found himself in the hot seat Thursday, as County Council members grilled him about communication lapses during two recent disasters. West Hawaii Today.

Volcano Watch Examines Cause Of 2018 Kilauea Eruption. The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is reiterating its position that geothermal drilling did not cause the lower East Rift Zone eruption. Big Island Video News.

Hilo Transfer Station Shutdown After Discovery of Explosive Ordnance. The explosive device was found to be a non-functioning grenade, with no detonation ability. Big Island Now.

Unexploded ordnance scare forces brief closure of Hilo transfer station. Hawaii News Now.

County cleans out more homeless camps. Hawaii County Highways Divisions crews, Hawaii Police officers and HOPE Services Hawaii employees worked to clear more homeless camps Thursday in the village and downtown Kailua-Kona areas. West Hawaii Today.


Maui

Blessing Held for $21.7 M Iao Water Treatment Plant. Mayor Michael Victorino took part Thursday in the blessing of the new $21.7 million Iao Water Treatment Plant. Maui Now.

Airport tram making practice runs. The tram connects the airport’s arrivals and departures gates with the $340 million, 1.3 million-square-foot consolidated rental car building scheduled to open May 15. Maui News.

Makawao Public Library celebrates 50 years. Maui News.

Kauai

Costs still rising. According to the County of Kauai, it has received $25 million from the state of Hawaii to help recover from the April 2018 flooding disaster. Garden Island.

No place to go. Homeless to be evicted from camp near homeless shelter. Garden Island.

Settlement reached, payment delayed. Patricia and Michael Kocher Sr. still haven’t been paid the $1 million promised to them by the County of Kauai to settle a lawsuit they filed over the death of their son, who was killed four years ago by a speeding police cruiser. Garden Island.

Super Golden Week, Southwest ticket sales are encouraging signs for Hawaii tourism, Honolulu, Hawaii county mayors up budgets, aquarium industry scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki tourism fun ©2019 All Hawaii News

Major tour companies and legacy air carriers for Hawaii’s Japan tourism market are reporting double-digit gains for this year’s “Super Golden Week,” a 10-day period of consecutive national holidays. Star-Advertiser.

After much anticipation, Southwest begins selling tickets for Hawaii flights. The low-cost carrier on Monday began selling tickets for Hawaii flights, with first flights — between Oakland and Honolulu — on March 17. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s What’s Not Passing The Hawaii Legislature This Year. On Tuesday the Hawaii Legislature is set to act on hundreds of bills as lawmakers near the halfway mark of the 2019 session. Civil Beat.

Gut And Replace Resurfaces At Hawaii Legislature. The Senate Ways and Means Committee altered the contents of several bills with little public notice, including one that would raise taxes and another that affects Big Island disaster relief. Civil Beat.

The state Senate Ways and Means Committee gutted and replaced at least two bills on Friday, including one affecting disaster relief for Hawaii County and another relating to a helicopter tax credit. Tribune-Herald.

A bill that would shine a brighter light on county police misconduct across the state is making its way through the state Legislature. House Bill 285, if enacted into law, would require Hawaii’s four county police chiefs to disclose in annual reports to the state Legislature the identity of an officer upon an officer’s suspension or discharge from a county police department. Tribune-Herald.

A bill passing through the state Legislature may spell the end for plastic bottles, styrofoam food containers and more across the state. Senate Bill 522 sets a lofty goal to ban the sale, use or distribution of plastic beverage bottles, utensils, stirring sticks, straws and polystyrene foam containers anywhere in the state by 2023. Tribune-Herald.

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Timeline of the battle over Hawaii reef fish. Environmental and industry advocates have been battling for years over whether the state should end the commercial collection of aquarium fish from Hawaii reefs. The fight led to a court decision that banned the use of fine-mesh nets — the main tool of fish collectors — until an environmental review is completed. Star-Advertiser.

Yellow tang project holds promise for Hawaii’s popular, iconic fish. Star-Advertiser.

The way fish are handled stirs debate in aquarium trade. The belief by some that fish do experience pain contributes to the debate over whether the state should end Hawaii’s aquarium trade. Star-Advertiser.

Fishing village wants more DLNR enforcement on aquarium trade. Star-Advertiser.

Aquarium trade still triggers fierce debate, even dividing a fishing village. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Higher tax rates are in store for owners of Oahu resort/hotel and higher-end resident “investment” properties, but the tax rate would stay the same for those who live in their own home, according to the budget plan for the coming fiscal year unveiled Friday by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell rolled out his $2.83-billion operating budget proposal today for Fiscal Year 2020, which begins July 1st.  He said real property and motor vehicle taxes are expected to bring in 120-million more but other taxes must go up to fund his spending plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

If you own a hotel, an investment home or a trash can, the mayor wants to charge you more. Hawaii News Now.

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Losing A Beachfront Home Isn’t Just A Rich Person’s Problem. As the sea level rise exacerbates coastal erosion, many longtime middle-class residents are struggling to protect their properties. Civil Beat.

A Palolo hillside neighborhood is shifting, leading to structural problems. Some residents say the only thing they can do is evacuate once their homes fall apart, even after continuous complaints to the city. KITV.

‘Deplorable’ hotel puts leasehold in jeopardy. Run-down. Terrible. Total dump. Those are guest descriptions of the Hawaiian Ebbtide Hotel.  Star-Advertiser.

A state lawmaker says he's had questions about the Public Safety Department's policies even before the recent fatal shootings by state sheriffs, that includes the OCCC inmate shot and killed after escaping Friday. KHON2.

Judge seeks more information on Kealoha’s cancer claim, trial delay request. Federal Judge John Michael Seabright will decide if the trial should be pushed back. On Friday, he said he’d need more information on Kealoha’s health and has set a hearing for Monday so Kealoha’s doctor can elaborate. Hawaii News Now.

Katherine Kealoha Says She Needs Cancer Treatment, Wants Trial Delayed. The defense lawyer for the former city prosecutor says in new court filings that Kealoha must seek immediate treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Kim proposes 10.7% budget hike, 35 new police positions. Thirty-five new police personnel, including 10 officers each for Ka‘u and Puna, nine new sergeants and six dispatchers, along with body cameras and computer upgrades, play center stage in a $573.5 million budget proposed Friday by Mayor Harry Kim. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim has submitted the first draft of his proposed operating budget for Fiscal Year 2019-20, proposing a 10.7 percent increase compared to last year. Big Island Video News.

Council pushes open Sunshine Law with secret budget meeting, discussions off agenda. A behind-the-scenes workshop and attempts to get commitments from colleagues on an item not on the agenda are two ways the County Council pushed the limits of the state Sunshine Law in recent weeks, as an especially tight county budget hangs in the balance. West Hawaii Today.

Proposed rules for vacation rentals received a frosty reception Friday evening during a public hearing in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Testifiers Speak Out On Short Term Vacation Rental Rules. Big Island Video News.

Bill would give BI second water specialist. Water quality monitoring on Hawaii Island will get a boost under a bill that passed the state House of Representatives on Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The County Council member who upset former Mayor Alan Arakawa in the bid for the Kahului residency seat is proving just as unpredictable in her new job. Freshman Council Member Tasha Kam has emerged as the swing vote in the first major test the new council has faced this term — the vetting of Mayor Michael Victorino’s 11 director nominees. Maui News.

Six Historic Bridges on Hana Highway Identified as High Priority. The Department of Transportation, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, holds the first in a series of public meetings to discuss a project to improve six of the historic bridges along the Hana Highway (Route 360) located between Huelo and Hana town in east Maui. Maui Now.

MECO says customers will not pay for unused power from solar farms. Credits from construction delays will offset costs in 2018. Maui News.

Maui Electric Co. produced 38 percent of power used in 2018 through renewable sources, up from 34 percent in 2017, the utility’s parent company, Hawaiian Electric Cos., said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Hope for endangered seabirds. During the four-day annual meeting of the Pacific Seabird Group last week at the Aqua Kauai Beach Hotel near Lihue, 10 researchers detailed the results of programs aimed at reducing the deaths of endangered and threatened native Hawaiian seabirds. Garden Island.

Ha Coffee Bar is hosting a climate-change conversation 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, featuring Victoria Keener speaking on how Kauai is adapting to predicted impacts of climate change. Garden Island.

Study claims police use sex workers, Senate to vote on red light cameras, Maui rat lungworm victim sues grower, general excise tax hike advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii police on parade ©2019 All Hawaii News

Sex workers say police are customers, study reveals. A controversial study on sex trafficking presented Wednesday to the Honolulu Police Commission quotes sex workers who allege police officers ask for sex in exchange for looking the other way. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers are again moving forward with a program to deploy cameras at traffic lights to photograph the license plates of motorists who run red lights so they can be ticketed. Star-Advertiser.

State Senate to Vote on Red Light Camera Bill. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii considering red light cameras. KHON2.

A law meant to help the mentally ill is actually preventing some from getting care. For the hundreds of homeless people incapacitated by mental illness in Hawaii, years go by ― and for many, nothing changes. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers pushing to eliminate statue of limitations in sexual abuse of children. If passed, HB 18 will allow sexually abused children legal protection during, or even after entering into adulthood. KITV.

The state Legislature is moving forward with an initiative to reduce kids’ sugar intake at restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

Legislature Considers Screen Time Public Health Measure. It was Video Game Industry Day at the State Capitol. But, there is one bill pending at the state legislature that is aimed at improving the lives of children who spend a lot of time on their electronic devices.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii aims for more women in the cyber security workforce. Gov. David Y. Ige today announced the state’s participation in the Girls Go CyberStart Initiative, which encourages young women to explore the cybersecurity and computer science fields. KHON2.

Corporate Tax Loophole Costs Hawaii $38 Million Annually. That is the conclusion of a report from the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state’s industrial hemp pilot program could become a permanent full program should a state Senate bill pass the Legislature and be signed into law. Tribune-Herald.

Census Bureau to hire hundreds in Hawaii for 2020 population count. Hawaii News Now.

TSA hiring officers for four Hawaii airports. Star-Advertiser.

TSA looking to hire before summer travel season. KHON2.

Border wall could tap $311 million in Hawaii military construction. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Public Records Chief Is Still Trying To Make It Harder To Get Public Records. Cheryl Kakazu Park, director of the Office of Information Practices, is working hard to get around a Supreme Court ruling on the Uniform Information Practices Act. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday unveiled his seven-point plan to improve pedestrian safety in the city with the theme of “Look All Ways.” Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Caldwell Unveils 7-Point Pedestrian Safety Plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

Mayor unveils pedestrian safety measures. KHON2.

Special Council Election Requires Hundreds Of New Campaign Finance Reports. In the revote for the East Honolulu City Council seat, Trevor Ozawa had a financial advantage over Tommy Waters in the latest reports. Civil Beat.

The Pali Highway will reopen today for one-way traffic during limited commuting hours, a situation expected to last for months while state crews work to fortify the unstable slopes near the tunnels on Pali Highway. Star-Advertiser.

Long-term Fix to Pali Highway Lanes Could Take Months. Associated Press.

City to spend $20M to shore up severe erosion problems in Palolo. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu police are continuing their investigation into a deadly officer-involved shooting in the quiet neighborhood of Mililani Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Police fatally shoot theft suspect in Mililani; 2 others injured as fleeing pickup crashes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A general excise tax increase continued its forward march Wednesday, with the County Council voting 7-2 to bring the county surcharge up to one-half percent and extend it for another 10 years. West Hawaii Today.

On Thursday, the Hawaii State House Finance Committee will take up HB 1180, a bill to fund “disaster relief, recovery, mitigation, and remediation activities for the County of Hawaii” following the destructive eruption of Kilauea on the Lower East Rift Zone in summer 2018. Big Island Video News.

A week after the announcement that a Mississippi-based airline had acquired Mokulele Airlines and an affirmation that it would keep all of Mokulele’s current employees, those employees on Wednesday received news of a 10 percent reduction in staffing levels. West Hawaii Today.

New owner of Mokulele Airlines plans layoffs. Hawaii News Now.

A County Councilmember representing the Puna district, Matt Kanealii-Kleinfelder, announced today that he has introduced a resolution urging the County administration to increase funding for more police. Big Island Video News.

A new two-week mission launched Wednesday at the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation habitat located on the slopes of Mauna Loa. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Wailuku man with rat lungworm disease sues grower Hana Fresh. Scott Hessler says he got parasite from nonprofit’s produce. Maui News.

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case involving the Lahaina injection wells and the federal Clean Water Act, a decision welcomed by Maui County but decried by local environmental groups as a waste of taxpayer money. Maui News.

Maui Land & Pineapple profits from tax benefit. An income tax benefit generated a $3.7 million profit for Maui Land & Pineapple Co. in the fourth quarter and a $565,000 profit for all of last year, the company announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Priority Repairs to Fix Maui Potholes After Rain. Maui Now.

Kauai

Council OKs Kilauea School safe routes resolution. A resolution was adopted Wednesday by the Kauai County Council to establish traffic modifications on a problematic street in Kilauea. Garden Island.

Toward a vape-free campus. Local artists took on a wall at Kapaa High School as part of a statewide 808NOVAPE campaign that’s been ongoing through February. Garden Island.

Police kill man at state Capitol, Hawaii joins anti-wall lawsuit, plots in Zuckerberg's Kauai estate to be sold at public auction, homeless advocates want more one-way tickets out of Hawaii, Honolulu Humane Society under fire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol ©2019 All Hawaii News

A man who was killed in an officer-involved shooting at the state Capitol on Monday night was “physically combative" with a sheriff’s deputy despite numerous warnings, Honolulu police say. Hawaii News Now.

A state deputy sheriff fatally shot a man in his 20s during a struggle at the state Capitol Monday night. A Department of Public Safety spokeswoman said that at 8:20 p.m., a deputy sheriff was conducting a routine patrol at the Capitol rotunda and encountered a man with a bottle of alcohol. Star-Advertiser.

Man dead after deputy-involved shooting at State Capitol. KHON2.


Honolulu Police and Hawaii Department of Public Safety officials are investigating a fatal shooting that happened at the Capitol Rotunda Monday night. KITV.

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16 states, including Hawaii, sue President Trump over border wall. Joining California in filing the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, and Virginia. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Legislature is again considering a bill that would prohibit the governor and county mayors from having other jobs outside of their elected positions. House Speaker Scott Saiki’s anti-moonlighting bill would apply to the governor as well as Hawaii’s mayors. Civil Beat.

Red light camera bill passes judiciary and transportation committee. KHON2.

A bill that would require the state to retrofit certain schools to serve as hurricane shelters passed its second reading in the state House. House Bill 457 intends to establish a pilot program to retrofit one Department of Education building in each county to be able to withstand a Category 3 hurricane and serve as disaster shelters. Tribune-Herald.

Legislation working its way through the state Senate aims to improve teacher retention and recruitment by creating a housing voucher program for full-time teachers employed by the state Department of Education or at public charter schools. Tribune-Herald.

Helping Hawaii's homeless with a one-way plane ticket. Hundreds of homeless people have been helped off our streets with "One Way" airline tickets out of Hawaii. The program has been in place for three years, but now some lawmakers want to turn it into a state service. KITV.

Hawaii residents are more likely to become victims of cyberattack than any other state in the union, according to a newly released study. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Why Would Anyone Fake Stealing A Mailbox? The Feds Make Their Case. The U.S. Justice Department wants to present evidence of the Kealohas’ alleged financial crimes to help establish motive for the broader conspiracy case. Civil Beat.

Former deputy city Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha tried to deflect investigations into her behavior by “surreptitiously sending emails from other deputy prosecuting attorneys’ computers," federal authorities alleged in a recently-filed court document. Hawaii News Now.

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The height limit for new buildings in Kakaako appears to be safe from a dramatic increase proposed in the Legislature, after three committees deferred action on a pair of bills. Star-Advertiser.

After squatters were kicked out of an urban park, the really big problems began. Hawaii News Now.

3-strikes bill would ban Waikiki repeat offenders. The arrest of a juvenile suspect after a male tourist was robbed and assaulted by a mob on a Waikiki street could help bolster the argument for a Waikiki three-strikes law being proposed at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

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Animal rights activists want independent audit of Hawaiian Humane Society euthanization numbers. More than a dozen people lined up along the Humane Society with colorful signs, demanding justice for their furry friends. KITV.

Protesters say animals are being put down unnecessarily at the Hawaiian Humane Society. KHON2.

Thirty or so animal rights activists picketed in front of the Hawaiian Humane Society on Monday, alleging that the organization kills animals that are healthy or suffering from easily treatable conditions; violates standard safety procedures and labor practices; and has created a hostile work environment. Star-Advertiser.

Animal care group calls for investigation into humane society’s euthanasia practices. Dozens of animal care supporters waved signs and staged what they called a Rally for Truth outside the Hawaiian Humane Society Monday morning. Hawaii News Now.

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Ewa Beach community rallies for a new Campbell High School athletic complex. Hawaii News Now.

State officials are asking Oahu residents to be on the look-out for a new invasive species. Myoporum thrips are an invasive pest that can kill native naio trees. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

One of the leaders in the Thirty Meter Telescope opposition movement, Pisciotta talks about her view of Mayor Harry Kim’s “Vision for Maunakea”. Big Island Video News.

The general manager of the Hawaiian Paradise Park Owners Association is suing one of the subdivision’s board members, alleging she “published untrue and defamatory statements” about him. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Electric Co. is seeking the approval of the state Public Utilities Commission to pass on $155,000 in charges for 1.4 gigawatt hours of unused power last year from the two utility-scale solar arrays that went online last year. Maui News.

NOAA monitoring ‘life-threatening’ entanglement of a whale spotted off Maui. NOAA says the whale was spotted on Saturday with lines wrapped around its mouth and tail. In some places, the lines were seen cutting into the whale’s body. Hawaii News Now.

Sales and inventory took double-digit hits for Maui County’s single-family residential homes in January, according to statistics released last week by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Several small land parcels located within the boundaries of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s 700-acre estate on the North Shore will be sold at a public auction next month. Garden Island.

The water diversion debate. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative uses a system of century-old diversions in Kauai streams to supply water to two hydroelectric facilities in the Wailua watershed. Garden Island.

Picking Up The Pieces After Big Disasters. After last year’s big flood and hurricane damage, two local communities are finding their footing with disaster plans tailored for their areas. Civil Beat.

Kahele challenges Gabbard for congressional seat, Ige's State of the State address today, Caldwell mulls banning right turn on red, Oahu's property tax exemption could rise, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tusli Gabbard, Kai Kahele photo illustration ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii state Sen. Kai Kahele officially announced Monday that he plans to run for the congressional seat occupied by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, setting up a potential 2020 Democratic primary challenge for Gabbard early on as she embarks on her bid for president. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Kai Kahele Gets A Jump On 2020 In Announcing Congressional Bid. The Hilo legislator said he’ll campaign for the seat currently held by Tulsi Gabbard. Civil Beat.

With about 200 supporters cheering him on, state Sen. Kai Kahele on Monday announced he’s running for the 2nd Congressional District seat currently held by fellow Democrat, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. West Hawaii Today.

Sen. Kahele to Run for 2nd Congressional District. Big Island Now.

As more and more Democratic opponents continue to join her in the race for the White House, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) will head into the 2020 election with another challenger to worry about — one vying for her seat in Congress instead of challenging her for the presidency. Hawaii News Now.

State Sen. Kai Kahele announces bid for Congress, challenging U.S. Rep Tulsi Gabbard. KITV.

VIDEO: Kahele announces he’s running for Congress. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Sen. Kai Kahele’s “Major Announcement” On MLK Day. Big Island Video News.

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Gov. Ige to deliver State of the State in dramatically different position than in 2018. Gov. David Ige will deliver his fifth State of the State address on Tuesday, focusing on the key priorities of his second term — and touting the accomplishments of his first. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii prison officials are asking for an emergency appropriation of $3.4 million to continue housing inmates out of state for six more months as a delayed upgrade to prison security systems wraps up. Associated Press.

It's been two years since the legislature asked for a study to be done regarding the state's prison policies. The prison reform task force found positive studies from rehabilitative prisons which helps inmates instead of punishing them. KHON2.

Hawaii’s effort to become energy independent is nearing an important threshold as utility-scale solar farms are promising to produce electricity cheaper than fossil fuel plants, clean energy advocates say. Hawaii News Now.

Last week’s arrest of members of a Hawaiian sovereignty group brought up an often asked question in the Hawaiian community, “Who exactly speaks for native Hawaiians?” Hawaii Public Radio.

Community wants stiffer charges thrown at group behind OHA attack. Members of the Kingdom of Atooi attempted to seize OHA Thursday and identified themselves as federal marshals. KITV.

The Pacific Whale Foundation will once again host the Great Whale Count on Saturday, inviting volunteers and citizen scientists to count whales from shore as part of a long-term survey of humpback whales in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Property tax exemptions would rise for the first time since 2006 under a bill introduced last week by Honolulu Councilwoman Heidi Tsuneyoshi. Star-Advertiser.

Feds Say Hawaii Is Too Quick To Approve Wind Power Turbines. They’re asking the Public Utilities Commission not to green-light more projects until environmental concerns are addressed. Civil Beat.

Mayor Caldwell heads to D.C. to attend national meeting of mayors. Caldwell’s office says he will be attending the U.S. Conference of Mayors 87th Winter Meeting where he will share issues challenging the islands on a national stage. Hawaii News Now.

No turn on red? Honolulu mayor wants to change a traffic law on Oahu. Some are for it, but others say it’ll worsen traffic. Hawaii News Now.

East Honolulu patrol officers next in line for body cameras. It's been five months since Honolulu Police officially rolled out its body camera program. Since then, it's expanded to include more officers in more places on Oahu. KHON2.

No more milk: A Big Island dairy’s closure is impacting an Oahu farm’s operations. Naked Cow Dairy relies on milk from Hawaii Island to make their products. Hawaii News Now.

Thousands participated in the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration parade, which began Monday morning at Magic Island at Ala Moana Regional Park, wound its way through Waikiki and ended with an afternoon unity rally at Kapiolani Park. Star-Advertiser.

Isle company faces opposition by Swedish corporation. Kaholo. Kahlua. Might a person confuse one for the other? Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Adult day center opens in long-awaited new location. The $8.7 million, 19,414 square-foot day center — located adjacent to the Mohouli Heights Senior Neighborhood — is a partnership between Hawaii Island Community Development Corp., which managed the construction of the facility, and Hawaii Island Adult Care, which will provide programs and services there. Tribune-Herald.

A commission tasked with prioritizing the purchase of privately held Hawaii lands got an update on recent acquisitions, as its new report to the mayor again identifies multiple parcels in North Kohala worthy of preservation. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The County of Maui’s Department of Parks and Recreation is inviting the public to offer comments on the South Maui Community Park master plan update. Maui Now.

$522K Repaving Project to Begin in Central Maui. Work will begin this week on a Maui County project to repave five streets in Wailuku and five in Kahului, the Department of Public Works announced. Maui Now.

The Department of Public Works reports that repaving work will begin this week on a Maui County project to repave five streets in Wailuku and five streets in Kahului. KITV.

County jobless rises half a point to 2.3 percent. Maui News.

Rotary clubs bring more rescue tubes to west side. Beach parks farthest from services like fire, police to have priority. Maui News.

Kauai

Massive Flood Risks Don’t Deter Kauai Homeowners From Rebuilding. Kauai has tightened requirements for shoreline development, but they don’t take into account more alarming recent predictions of the impact of climate change and rising seas. Civil Beat.

Removing, and eating, invasives. Lihue Kaiser Permanente physician Todd Kuwayhe was thinking about sustainability as he waded through the loi at the Waipa ahupuaa during Monday’s Kaiser Permanente Day of Service held annually on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Garden Island.