Legislature questions HECO plan to collect extra $1B from customers, Sunshine bills teetering, state population increases, rail tax extension in trouble, DNA frees Maui man after 30 years, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lawmakers Question HECO Plan To Collect $1 Billion From Customers. Hawaiian Electric Co.’s biggest request to lawmakers this session was a $1 billion fund to cover future wildfire liability, paid for by a small fee on its customers. The utility was looking to shore up its battered credit rating, but instead, it has found a political headache. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi toys with repealing tax credits for solar, wind, renewable fuel. House Bill 1369 was heard by the House Finance Committee on Wednesday and proposed repealing credits for solar, wind, and renewable fuel. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii population increases in new estimate. Census estimates suggest that Hawaii’s population edged up 0.3%, or by 4,759 people, in 2024 and bumped up the total population count to 1,446,146 from 1,441,387 in 2023. Carl Bonham, director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, said at a briefing on the local economy made to the state House Finance Committee in January that he was somewhat skeptical about the Census Bureau methodology for estimating immigration in Hawaii, which represents one part of population change. Star-Advertiser.

Dead Or Alive? With A Week To Go, Some Sunshine Bills Are Teetering. By the end of this week bills need to have passed out of all the committees to which they’d been assigned, including the money committees, or they are dead for the year. In January, lawmakers introduced about 3,100 bills. As of Friday, 780 remained on the House’s list and 835 in the Senate. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers could make it easier for foreign doctors to practice in Hawaiʻi . In an attempt to address the state’s medical staffing shortages, lawmakers are considering a measure that would allow graduates from certain foreign medical schools to seek licensure in Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

A bill introduced in the state House of Representatives that would require nurse staffing standards for Hawaii hospitals statewide has been shelved, but debate is expected to continue. Star-Advertiser.

Sports betting bills still alive. At least two bills that would legalize some form of sports wagering in Hawaii remain alive this legislative session. House Bill 1308 and Senate Bill 1569 are companion measures, although both have been amended in committee hearings. Tribune-Herald.

Half Of Hawaiʻi Inmates Leave Prison Without The IDs They Need To Start Over. More than seven years after Hawaiʻi passed a law meant to address the problem, the number of people leaving prison and jail without key documents has barely budged. Civil Beat.

Hawaii fireworks injuries have risen over past decade. The number of fireworks-­related injuries in Hawaii has steadily risen over the past decade and a half, reaching a 15-year high over the latest New Year’s holiday, according to updated statistics from the state Department of Health. Star-Advertiser.

Trump policies threaten University of Hawaii ethnic studies programs. President Donald Trump’s order banning diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility programs has University of Hawaii students and faculty worrying about the future of academic programs that focus on Hawaiian, Filipino, Korean and other ethnic cultures. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Threat Of Federal Budget Cuts May Sink Rail Tax Extension. The city rail authority is supporting a bill at the Legislature to extend the controversial Oʻahu excise tax surcharge for rail, but some board members worry the threat of federal budget cuts may cause the surcharge measure to die next week. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i Convention Center seeking $55M to fast-track projects. If the $12 million expenditure ceiling request, along with HTA’s CIP request of $52 million, are appropriated, HTA anticipates spending more than $55.4 million on convention center repair and maintenance projects in fiscal year 2026 and more than $16.7 million in fiscal year 2027. Star-Advertiser.

Wahiawā Charter School Accepts Permanent Closure. The Hawaiʻi State Public Charter School Commission voted to close the school in January, and Kamalani Academy leaders will not challenge the decision. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii Cancer Center and Queen’s to collaborate on oncology clinic. The University of Hawaii Cancer Center and The Queen’s Health Systems are teaming up to provide cutting-edge, comprehensive cancer care to residents under one roof. Star-Advertiser.

2 more arrests in New Year’s fireworks blast bring total to 12. The owners of the Aliamanu home at 4144 Keaka Drive, where a stockpile of illegal aerials accidentally detonated at a New Year’s party killing six people Opens in a new tab, were arrested today on suspicion of fireworks offenses. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii DOT apologies for ‘incorrect’ H-1 lane closures that snarled traffic on Saturday. A slow-moving mass of vehicles stretched from Aloha Stadium all the way back to Kapolei by 11 a.m. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Apparent settlement reached in Honokohau Harbor sewage lawsuit.  A letter to U.S. District Chief Magistrate Judge Kenneth Mansfield from Elena Bryant, an Earthjustice attorney representing Hui Malama Honokohau, requested putting on hold “existing discovery and other deadlines while the parties finalize the settlement, including securing approval from the County Council.” Tribune-Herald.

Mayor kicks off first of 14 community meetings. Dozens of Big Island residents met with Mayor Kimo Alameda and other Hawaii County officials Wednesday at the first of 14 planned community meetings around the island. Tribune-Herald.

Housing center for youth opens in downtown Hilo. The Youth Outreach and Supportive Housing Center in Hilo will offer 22 units of housing for young people between the ages of 15 and 24, as well as a youth center to connect at-risk youth with access to essential services.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Two hotels will be built at Waikoloa Plaza. The plaza fills out a portion of an estimated $700 million master-planned project that sits on 47 acres purchased by developer Meridian Pacific for $24 million in 2018. West Hawaii Today.

‘DOGE is a dictatorship’: Hundreds turn out in Puna to express their concerns about Trump administration, Musk. A crowd of perhaps 300 showed up Saturday at a town hall hosted by U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii) at the Pahoa High and Intermediate School cafeteria. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hawaii man freed by DNA evidence after 30 years in prison visits mother’s grave and ponders ubiquitous cellphones. One of the first places Gordon Cordeiro visited when a judge ordered him released after spending 30 years in prison for a killing he always maintained he had nothing to do with was his mother’s Hawaii gravesite. Associated Press. Maui Now.

College no longer first option for Maui County public high school graduates. There is a developing trend among Maui County public high school graduates over the past five years — foregoing college for more immediate careers, or skipping college because they see tuition and other associated costs as prohibitive. Maui Now.

Restoring Lahaina power is critical to rebuilding.  A year and a half since the devastating Maui wildfires destroyed Lahaina town, Jeremy DelosReyes is still in a dark place. Star-Advertiser.

'I don't know how you guys expect us to pay rent': Lahaina family struggles with FEMA requirement. Lahaina resident Beatrice Hoopai narrowly escaped the 2023 wildfire with her family. Now, she’s fighting to keep a roof over their head. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hauling of modular homes to continue for wildfire survivors, Feb. 26-28. Motorists are advised of potential traffic delays as modular homes for wildfire survivors are transported from Kahului to the state’s Ka Laʻi Ola housing site in Lahaina. Maui Now.

Kauai

Program begins releasing mosquitoes on Kauai to protect endangered honeycreepers. Conservationists on Kauai have begun releasing hundreds of thousands of male mosquitoes incapable of reproducing in an effort to combat avian malaria, a disease threatening native honeycreepers with extinction. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Supreme Court considering election challenges, Maui releases long-term recovery plan for Lahaina, Kilauea pauses after brief eruption, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

State Supreme Court considers two challenges to tight election races (video only) Hawaii News Now.

Native Hawaiian Contractor Chris Dawson Has Died While Under Investigation. Christopher Dawson, 62, a prominent Native Hawaiian defense contractor, was found dead Thursday on Oʻahu, according to the Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office.  Dawson’s death, which the medical examiner determined to be a suicide, comes as he was under federal investigation for alleged financial crimes, including wire fraud and money laundering.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

Another Honolulu Rail Contractor Demands More Money, Citing Years Of Delays. In a $324 million lawsuit, a key contractor alleges the city hasn’t resolved its claim because it wants to avoid further public criticism. Civil Beat.

Topa Financial Center property sale another sign of evolving downtown. Developer Christine Camp said her company’s acquisition Friday of Topa Financial Center is just a small part of a larger trend in reimagining “DOHO” — downtown Honolulu — with its many largely vacant office buildings. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

A new kauhale opens as the state tackles growing homelessness. The newest tiny-home village to reduce homelessness — with 43 units designed to house single adults, couples and their pets — was unveiled and blessed Monday in Iwilei. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kīlauea pauses after a brief eruption . Kilauea puts on ‘outstanding’ show.  It’s a “Pele Kalikimaka” in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, according to Jessica Ferracane, the park’s spokeswoman, referring to the eruption that started early Monday morning within Kilauea volcano’s Halema‘uma‘u crater. Tribune-Herald. Associated Press.  Hawaii Punlic Radio.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui releases final Long-Term Recovery Plan for Lahaina. Maui Country officials have released the county’s final Long-Term Recovery Plan for Lahaina. The release follows a monthlong community engagement series on the draft plan that included feedback from hundreds of residents and local stakeholders. The Long-Term Recovery Plan.  Maui News. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Lahaina immigrants who survived fire now wary of Trump’s deportation threats. Nearly one-third of Lahaina’s population before the August 2023 wildfire came from another country, and their recovery from the blaze has been hampered in some cases by language barriers, housing costs, the decline in work and the lack of access to services reserved for U.S. citizens. Maui Now.

Report emphasizes recovery access needs for Filipino survivors of Maui wildfires. A group focusing on Filipinos in Lahaina recently released a report on the community’s experiences and needs following the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires. Hawaii Public Radio.

Iwi kupuna unearthed after surf slams Maui’s North Shore. The waves uncovered iwi kupuna – or ancestral remains – from Hawaiian burials. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Efforts underway for permanent Hanapēpē Massacre memorial on Kauaʻi 100 years later. The state is looking to build a permanent memorial to honor the 1924 Hanapēpē Massacre, a tragic turning point in Hawai‘i’s labor movement that led to the deaths of 16 Filipino strikers and four police officers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Contractors Association of Kauai wraps up 2024 with membership meeting. The Contractors Association of Kauai closed 2024 with its 67th Annual Meeting and Installation dinner on Dec. 5 at the Puakea Golf Course. Garden Island.

Honolulu airport near bottom of national survey, rail contractor gets notice to proceed on final leg, first humpback of whale season spotted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Honolulu airport moves up in passenger satisfaction, but is still fourth worst. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, the largest in the state, moved up in a ranking of large airports, but it’s still fourth from the bottom, according to the latest J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Star-Advertiser.

UH President Candidate Targeted Black Law Professor For Speaking Out, Review Found. As the search for a new University of Hawaii president nears the end, documents show one finalist, Wendy Hensel, was involved in retaliating against a law professor who questioned her. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Prison System Confronts ‘A Huge Mental Health Crisis’. Licensed psychologists have been leaving correctional facilities in the state at an alarming rate, which is creating gaps in care. Civil Beat.

Todd Apo Appointed To Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority Board. The CEO of a Kohala-based nonprofit has been appointed to the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority board. Big Island Video News.

First humpback sighting reported for 2024 whale season. The sighting was at approximately 10 a.m. Sunday by Capt. Matt Talbot and the crew of Teralani during a snorkel sail off the coast of Ka’anapali. Maui Now.

Oahu

HART officially proceeds on final Skyline segment. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has issued a “notice to proceed” to its chosen contractor that is tasked with finishing the nearly $10 billion Skyline project by the start of the next decade. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Fence returning to Diamond Head seawall amid increased erosion. Fencing is going back up at the Leahi Beach Park seawall on the edge of Diamond Head, according to the city Department of Parks and Recreation. Hawaii News Now.

Homeless hotspot transforming into $155M high-rise for Native Hawaiians. After numerous delays, a 23-floor, $155 million “high-rise hale” to house Native Hawaiians is set to break ground by the end of 2024. The Old Bowl-O-Drome in Moiliili has been closed for more than two decades. Hawaii News Now.

City attorneys reach $1.5M settlement with family of Black man killed by police. City attorneys are proposing to pay $1.5 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit brought by the widow of a 29-year-old citizen of South Africa who was shot and killed by Honolulu police officers after a bloody fight at a Nuuanu home on April 14, 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Roth signs bill to expand housing availability. The bill — co-drafted by council Chair Heather Kimball, Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz, Planning Director Zendo Kern and Deputy Director Jeff Darrow — allows homeowners to build up to three accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, with a size limit of 1,250 square feet on their properties. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Voting explainer: 2024 Hawaiʻi Island charter amendment ballot questions. The questions are related to councilmember vacancies, department head appointments, and the Cost of Government Commission. Hawaii Public Radio.

Pahoa bus hub/library could break ground in 2025.  A 9.5-acre parcel between the Pahoa Marketplace and the Puna Kai Shopping Center will be developed as a nexus for a “hub and spoke” public transportation network in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Demolition of Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel underway. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources said the wooden lobby and restaurant were demolished weeks ago, while work began Monday morning to knock down the first of two, concrete hotel wings. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  KHON2.

Maui

New survey tracks recovery of households affected by Maui fires. The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization reported Tuesday that 29% of fire-affected households now live below the poverty line, up from 14% before the fires that destroyed most of Lahaina and claimed 19 homes in Upcountry Maui on Aug. 8, 2023. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Maui News.  Maui Now.  KITV4.

Mishandling of human remains: Local forensic company breaks silence on Lahaina disaster response. The owner of a forensic morgue team hired by the Maui Police Department claims that many protocols for the respectful and accurate recovery of victims were not followed. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed resolution aims to increase use of Maui’s recycled water, stretches into Lahaina rebuild. A new resolution making its way through the Maui County Council discusses the use of recycled water on Maui but mixes in language regarding Lahaina rebuild, sparking concerns amongst residents and council members. Maui News.

State postpones Upcountry overnight road closure for lane striping work. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation has postponed roadway striping work on Makawao Avenue heading mauka onto Haleakalā Highway. Maui Now.

Blessing marks Maui County’s acquisition of Kula Community Center property. A blessing Monday at the Kula community center marked Maui Countyʻs acquisition of the 7-acre property that includes the center, ensuring the area is held for public use in perpetuity.  Maui Now.

‘It’s the rebirth of Kaho‘olawe’: Native species documented on former bombing range. Native life has returned to the island of Kaho’olawe after decades of work to restore the former military bombing range. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Should Kauai County Spend Money To Save Money?  Cost Control Commission proposed a county charter amendment would require the county to pay for initiatives that could lead to savings in the future. Civil Beat.

HART seeks $1B from state, more than 100 modular homes headed to Lahaina, $12M grant for health care reform, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

HART requests $1 billion appropriation from state. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has petitioned the state Department of Budget and Finance to appropriate that sizable sum for the agency’s next two budget cycles. The $1 billion would come from the mass transit special fund, created under a 2017 state law known as Act 1. Star-Advertiser.

Insurance Companies Are Still Trying To Block The $4 Billion Maui Fire Settlement. Insurance companies hoping to recoup billions of dollars they’ve already paid in claims to Maui fire victims are asking a federal judge to get in the middle of a legal squabble that has been playing out in state court. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s tourism goals unlikely to keep up with inflation. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority board on Thursday approved a goal for Hawai‘i Tourism USA, the global marketing team responsible for driving travel demand to Hawaii from its core U.S. market, to grow visitor spending by just 1.4%. Star-Advertiser.

UH Foundation raises over $115M for students, programs, research. The University of Hawaii Foundation raised $115.2 million in fiscal year 2024, exceeding its $100 million annual goal by 15%, marking the fourth consecutive year of surpassing the $100 million milestone. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi receives $12M federal grant to establish health care reform. Hawaiʻi is one of only six states chosen to participate in this program, making it a rare opportunity. Hawaii Public Radio.

Report: Deaths associated with with hepatitis C happening at earlier age in Hawaiʻi than elsewhere in the United States.  The Hawaiʻi Department of Health released “Premature Deaths and Disparities Associated with Hepatitis C: The Hawaiʻi Hepatitis C Mortality Report” as part of Liver Cancer Awareness Month, which is observed in October. Big Island Now.

Here are the changes to SNAP benefits starting this month. Several changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP, start Tuesday. This year, the USDA has increased maximum allotments but also changed eligibility requirements for SNAP benefits, but exact amounts vary based on where you live and the size of your household. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Voters To Decide Whether Lifeguards Need Oversight Commission. Whether to create a volunteer commission that would oversee the Department of Ocean Safety and have the power to appoint and remote its chief will be up to voters in November. The commission would be analogous to those that oversee the city’s police and fire departments. Civil Beat.

Could a vacant home tax end the housing crisis? That means, in addition to paying Hawaii real property taxes annually, anyone with a home that is vacant six months out of the year, would have to pay taxes on 1% of its assessed value the first year, 2% the next year and 3% after that. KHON2.

Catholic church sells land to senior living complex. The nonprofit operator of the Kahala Nui senior living complex is buying the land under the project built in 2005 on a parcel leased from the Roman Catholic Church of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless kauhale units still without power, city says. Over the summer, the Aala Respite facility was set up as part of a joint effort between the city and state to provide shelter and medical care for vulnerable, medically fragile people who’ve experienced long-term homelessness on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Increased Hawaii park surveillance without public approval. City officials plan to more than double the video surveillance at Ala Moana Regional Park. KHON2.

Kapi‘olani nurses set to return to work Sunday morning. With a new contract in place, union nurses are scheduled to return to work Sunday at the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children. Star-Advertiser.

Tensions rising after ten days of a workers strike at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Striking workers at the Hilton Hawaiian Village aren’t happy that after ten days of striking, they’re still not any closer to getting a new contract, or even an offer to return to the bargaining table. Also unhappy are guests, some surfers and neighbors around the resort. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

A 76-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a brush fire that happened in Haleiwa on Tuesday, Honolulu police said. Police arrested the man Thursday afternoon for fourth-degree arson. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Ex-Miske Associate Sentenced To More Than 10 Years In Prison. Jake Smith emerged as a key witness against the convicted Honolulu crime boss after agreeing to a plea deal with prosecutors. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

OHA Grant Supports Hale Mua Cultural Group Efforts In Waipiʻo Valley. The $145,000 grant will assist the ʻAi Me Ka Iʻa Waipiʻo: Perpetuating ʻOhana Connection to Loʻi Kalo and Loko Wai Program. A program reinforcing cultural practices and freshwater fishpond preservation in Waipiʻo Valley is getting support from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Opening of residential areas off Lahainaluna Road set for today. With residential debris removal 100 percent complete, opening of residential areas off Lahainaluna Road is set for Friday, Oct. 4, at 6 a.m. This is Phase 4 of the Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) zone reopening plan and marks one of the final large residential zones to be reopened. Maui News. Maui Now.

Traffic Alert: Caravans to carry over 100 modular homes for Maui wildfire survivors. The Hawaii Department of Transportation is alerting drivers of potential traffic delays as modular homes for wildfire survivors are being transported from Kahului to Lahaina starting on Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Timeline shows Maui Electric inspection missed damage before power started fire. MPD commanders and the federal ATF did say that the fire was caused when damaged electric lines were re-energized. But the detailed timeline shows a key inspection failed to find the damaged equipment - and led to a decision to throw the switches that sparks the flames. Hawaii News Now.

Kahului man pleads guilty in Maui explosives case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said Robert Francis Dumaran, 47, entered a plea agreement in federal court in Honolulu Wednesday, pleading guilty to possessing explosive powders as a convicted felon and possessing an unregistered destructive device. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

This Lahaina Fire Survivor Tends The Memorial Every Day. Susie Richter hauls up jugs of water for the plants amid the crosses and portraits of Maui fire victims. She often has company. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Disciplinary proceedings being initiated for Kauaʻi police chief who left gun in bathroom. The Kauaʻi Police Commission is considering disciplinary measures for Police Chief Todd Raybuck after he left his gun unattended in a bathroom earlier this year.  Kauai Now.

Kapa‘a transfer station to be closed nearly 1 year beginning in early November. The renovations are part of the county’s islandwide Refuse Transfer Station Improvements project. Kauai Now.

'It needs to get better' | Calls continue for change to search and rescue operations on Kauai. Nearly two months after a Kauai man was found dead in Wailua, calls are growing for change to the way official search and rescue efforts are conducted. KITV4.

Padraic Gallagher named executive director Kauai Humane Society.  Gallagher, the former disaster program manager at the American Red Cross in Lihue, will be the new executive director. Garden Island.

$1.66B contract awarded for final Honolulu rail segment, Alaska Air, Hawaiian extend merger deadline, Polynesians now lead 3 top state-funded tourism agencies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

HART awards $1.66B contract for final segment. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on Thursday announced a $1.66 billion contract award to Los Angeles-based Tutor Perini Corp. to design and build Skyline’s last 3-mile segment to Kakaako. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

Alaska Air, Hawaiian further extend review period of proposed deal. Alaska Air said Thursday it has agreed to further extend the review period of its proposed $1.9 billion acquisition of peer Hawaiian Holdings with the U.S. Department of Justice. The companies will extend the review period with the DOJ until 12:01 AM ET, Aug 20 (6:01 p.m. Hawaii time on Monday). Reuters.

Legislators urge DOE to fix bus driver shortage. State legislators met with the Department of Education on Thursday to address protracted concerns about ongoing public school bus driver shortages, following the DOE’s abrupt announcement of suspended routes right before the school year began. Star-Advertiser.

Polynesians lead 3 top tourism agencies. Come September, all three of Hawaii’s top state-funded tourism management and destination branding organizations, which together control more than a $128 million in state funds, will have a Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander at the helm. Star-Advertiser.

UH reports progress in presidential search. The University of Hawaii reported that its search for a new president is progressing on schedule. The university received over 90 applications for the position.  KHON2.

Hemp farmers want more input on needs and recommendations to grow industry. The Hawaiʻi Hemp Task Force has packed its schedule for the rest of the month with meetings to better understand the local hemp industry.Since May, the group has met six times and is set to dissolve at the end of the month. Hawaii Public Radio.

EPA issues $234K in fines for illegal cesspools on Maui, Hawaii Island. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued property owners more than $234,000 in fines and ordered the closure of five large-capacity cesspools on Maui and Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu resident diagnosed with Dengue Fever; 11th Hawaii resident diagnosed in 2024. The state Department of Health says the latest case involves a traveler who was previously abroad in a country where the virus is more common.  KITV4.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Vows Tougher Approach On Homelessness. Rick Blangiardi said he’ll take 1,000 people off the streets within a year, and that he's not worried about legal challenges. Civil Beat.

Man Killed In Waianae Is The Fourth Officer-Involved Shooting Death This Year. Honolulu police chief appeals for help in wake of fatal shooting. The 60-year-old man fatally shot by a Honolulu police officer Wednesday night in Waianae fired a stolen .40-caliber handgun into a neighbor’s home after his girlfriend fled there seeking safety following an assault, HPD Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan said Thursday afternoon during a news conference. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Honolulu named most desirable place to live 2nd year in a row. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Livability Index analyzed 173 cities worldwide based on 30 categories of living standards. Honolulu received high marks for infrastructure, stability, education, natural beauty and weather. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘New ways to HOLO’: City encourages residents to use public transit. City officials hope people will use public transportation — that includes the Skyline, the bus, or Biki bikes. The Department of Transportation Services said they’re adding and extending some bus routes for more convenience. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Proposal to develop popular spot on Oahu’s North Shore stirs debate. A developer plans to spend about $20 million on a new food and retail center on the mauka side of Kamehameha Highway. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Tower Observation Deck Is Closed Indefinitely For Repairs. The popular tourist attraction closed during the Covid-19 pandemic. But DOT's Harbors Division has a list of renovations to address before reopening the site. Civil Beat.

Pregnant military spouse missing more than 2 weeks. The search continues for Mischa Mabeline Kaalohilani Johnson, a pregnant 19-year-old Army spouse who has been missing for more than two weeks. The Army is offering a $10,000 reward for credible information that can lead authorities to Johnson. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Council OKs 3 proposed county charter amendments for November general election ballot. The council last week adopted resolutions for three proposed charter amendments that will appear on the Nov. 5 general election ballot. They deal with vacancies on the council and in county department leadership as well as the terms for members of one of the county’s commissions. Big Island Now.

Mayor Roth the victim of online prank. Mayor Mitch Roth said Thursday he felt “a little bit of frustration” after learning an anonymous email has been circulating that invites individuals experiencing homelessness to stay at a certain address in Hilo. The address provided in the email is Roth’s home address. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. KITV4.

Farmers laud North Kohala well project. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources next month will commence a yearlong $5.7 million project to improve a well in North Kohala so it can be used for agricultural purposes once again. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Lahaina Community Land Trust secures first piece of land to steward in Lahaina hands. The Lahaina Community Land Trust has secured its first parcel of community-owned land, that will be held in Lahaina hands forever, for the benefit of the local community for generations to come. The property at 1651 Lokia Street was secured by the LCLT in partnership with The Conservation Fund, a national land conservation organization. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Sister cities delegation visits Kaua‘i. A protocol sister city courtesy visit with Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami turned into an unexpected real life learning lesson at the Mo‘ikeha Building on Thursday. Garden Island.

Insurance companies lose first dibs on $4B Maui fire settlement, Justice Department mulls Hawaiian-Alaska Airlines merger plans, final segment of Skyline rail considered, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Maui Judge Clears Path To Final $4.04 Billion Settlement Of Wildfire Cases. Insurance companies lose their bid to continue separate lawsuits.  Several of Hawaii’s largest government, business and social organizations including the state, Maui County, Hawaiian Electric Co., Hawaiian Telcom and Kamehameha Schools have agreed to contribute to settle the claims of fire victims.  Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Hawaii News Now.

DOJ ramps up scrutiny in Hawaiian-Alaska merger. Mixed signals are coming as an extended deadline for federal antitrust enforcers to review the proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines draws to a close. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi DOE introduces free online mental health services for families. The DOE has partnered with the national nonprofit Cook Center for Human Connection to provide 24/7 access online. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

HART’s third-segment contract under consideration. The remaining 3-mile portion of Skyline — the estimated $482.4 million City Center Guideway and Stations project — would begin at Middle Street and end at Halekauwila Street. Star-Advertiser.

Overnight camping suspended at Oahu park over reckless behavior. State officials said starting Aug. 23, they are suspending camping at the Sand Island State Recreation Area due to reckless nighttime behavior. Star-Advertiser.

‘It’s not solving the problem’: Mixed reaction after city sells community mini-park. A small public park in the middle of the city won’t belong to the public much longer. Hawaii News Now.

Amid erosion concerns, city to begin repairs for Kaneohe Dam. The city is set to begin repairing a portion of the Kaneohe Dam at the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden. Hawaii News Now.

‘Alarming’: Kapilina Beach Homes residents raise concern over days-long watermain leak. Residents who live in Kapilina Beach Homes in Ewa Beach said a water leak has been running for days — and a timeline for when it will be fixed is still up in the air. Hawaii News Now.

Generations Of Immigrants Have Forged A Unique Asian Tattoo Culture In Hawaii. The state's tattoo industry is thriving as Asian Americans seek a reconnection with their ancestral heritage through this skin-deep art form. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Kona Airport Runway Project To Get $64.7 Million In Federal Grants. Two Federal Aviation Administration grants will be used to rehabilitate the runway at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Overnight runway work scheduled at Hilo International Airport. The primary runway, 8/26, will be closed nightly from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., from Aug. 19 through Aug. 22. Big Island Now.

Study: Water quality will continue to decline. The water quality of Hilo Bay will only get worse as climate change intensifies, according to a new study by University of Hawaii researchers. Tribune-Herald.

Drought conditions ‘could be coming’. For the second consecutive month, much of the Big Island had abnormally dry weather. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Property Owners Are Pushing Tenants Out to House Wildfire Survivors for More Money. High prices offered by emergency housing programs have encouraged property owners to chase the money. Civil Beat.

Kapalua Village opens with 50 temporary modular homes for wildfire impacted employees. The new development features 50 temporary modular homes supplied by Daiwa House Group—a Japanese company and pioneer in prefab housing—to offer incoming residents at Kapalua Village comfort, functionality and a sense of community. Maui Now. KHON2.

Maui Wildfires Smoldered Underground, Threatening Water For Agriculture. While the harm to homes and tourism drew the most attention, agriculture was also heavily affected across the island, and the harm did not stop once the flames were out. Civil Beat.

Suspect Used Batteries, Shrapnel And A Pipe To Make Explosives Found On Maui, Investigators Say. Authorities arrested 47-year-old Robert Dumaran after multiple homemade bombs detonated on Maui roads. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Kauai

Mayor, employer unions sign agreement on free health care premiums on Kaua‘i.  Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami met with union officials on Monday to finalize the joint agreement on Kaua‘i County’s proposed free health care premium coverage for Fiscal Year  Kauai Now. KHON2.

County of Kauaʻi wants public to report invasive rose-ringed parakeets. The county has an online survey that the public can access to report sightings of the invasive bird. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's homeless elders double, Maui Planning Commission approves short-term rental phaseout, government contractor influence persists in local politics, arson suspected in Kauai wildfire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Along with Hawaii's general population getting older, there are more aging homeless residents. The number of Kupuna in shelters has more than doubled over the past decade. KITV4.

Hawaii Contractors Are Still Big Contributors To Political Campaigns, Thanks To Loopholes In State Law. Executive officers and employees of government contractors along with their family members donated more than $170,000 to local campaigns between January and the end of June, a Civil Beat review of campaign finance data found. Civil Beat.

Candidates pledge not to accept donations from corporate interests, developers.  Forty-eight political candidates have signed onto the Our Hawaiʻi Pledge, a commitment to turn down campaign donations of over $100 from sources such as corporate lobbyists to developers, and hotels to military contractors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Has More Money For Preschool Subsidies Than It Has Been Able To Give Out. The state will start accepting applications year-round in an effort to increase the number of families seeking help paying for preschool.  Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi-based climate projects receive $5.5M from USDA. The University of Hawaiʻi received the largest grant, totaling over $2 million. The USDA awarded the money for the testing and research of the use of AI-enhanced irrigation systems at 14 farms. More than $1 million will go to E kūpaku ka ʻāina to improve the diversity of two culturally significant staple crops — kalo and ʻuala. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The Bids Are Finally In For Honolulu Rail Through The City Center. No information is being released yet about whether the bids fit HART's budget, but the rail authority plans to award the major contract in August. Civil Beat.

Local 5 workers picket Waikiki hotels, plan strike vote as bargaining grows tense. Nearly 1,000 Unite Here Local 5 union workers picketed in front of major Waikiki hotels Tuesday demanding new contracts that provide “living wages, fair workloads, and proper staffing that ensures quality service.” Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

City Reopens Moanalua Park After Residents Questioned The Need To Close It. The city had closed the park more than a month ago to prevent hikers from accessing a trail leading to the site where the Haiku Stairs are being dismantled. Civil Beat.

New lifeguard towers coming to Oahu beaches. The replacement towers in question, which cost $45,000 each, include two at the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Others will be placed at Kalama Beach Park, Sunset Beach, Maili Beach and at beach spots in Waimanalo, Waikiki and Ala Moana. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Volcano Alert Level raised then lowered after brief rise in earthquake activity at Kīlauea’s upper East Rift Zone. Earthquake and ground deformation rates in Kīlauea’s upper East Rift Zone decreased significantly following a “burst of intense activity” at approximately 3:30 a.m. HST on July 23, 2024. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Shaelynn Lehano-Stone: a timeline of tragedy. A 9-year-old developmentally disabled Hilo girl starved to death by her parents and grandmother eight years ago was on the radar of Child Welfare Services almost from birth. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Youth Challenge Academy Changes Mission, Becomes Job Challenge Academy. The Hawaiʻi National Guard announced Monday that the Youth Challenge Academy in Hilo will be changing its name, who can participate, and its mission. Big Island Video News.

Construction to begin on new playground at park in North Kohala. Construction of a new playground at Kamehameha Park in Kapa‘au is slated to begin Wednesday. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.

Longtime UH-Hilo theater sound tech dies in accident. Rob Abe, 61, of Volcano,  retired in 2022, after 30 years and 2,364 performances, as technical director of the University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center. Tribune-Herald.



Maui

Maui Moves Closer To Phasing Out Thousands Of Short-Term Rentals To Deal With Housing Crisis. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended the County Council approve the mayor's proposal, with some tweaks, despite concerns that it will wreak economic havoc. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools plans revitalization of fallow land in Lahaina. The trust, which owns about 1,160 acres of largely fallow former sugar cane plantation land in Lahaina, plans to expand agriculture and forestry on roughly 960 acres mostly above developed parts of the West Maui town, while also pursuing residential, commercial and recreational development on about 190 acres partly bordering neighborhoods destroyed by flames nearly a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

Maui wildfire survivors begin moving in to Laʻikū temporary housing project in Lahaina. La‘ikū will provide 16 two-bedroom, one-bath units at 560 sq. ft. each. The homes are being built on approximately two acres of land that was previously acquired by the HDOT as part of the Lahaina Bypass project. Maui Now.

Disaster Recovery Community Update Meeting in Lahaina Civic Center gym, July 24. Residents are encouraged to attend the County of Maui’s Weekly Disaster Recovery Community Update Meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, in the Lahaina Civic Center gymnasium. Maui Now.

Kauai

Officials suspect arson in Koke‘e brush fire. Authorities suspect the Koke‘e brush fire, which scorched 1,600 acres, was intentionally set, officials confirmed Tuesday. Kauai Now.

TSA aims to bolster its staff on Kaua‘i. The Transportation Security Administration is looking for a few good people to help bolster its ranks at Lihu‘e Airport, where thousands of tourists arrive every week for the start of their Kaua‘i experience. Garden Island.

Hawaii settles landmark climate change case, Maui council member seeks statewide delay of school start for Lahaina fire anniversary, gas prices decrease, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi agrees to landmark settlement in youth climate lawsuit. In the settlement, the state commits to implementing targeted plans and programs to decarbonize the state’s transportation system and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui Council Member Wants Schools To Delay Classes For Lahaina Fire Anniversary. The Maui County Council is taking up a resolution on Friday asking the Hawaii Department of Education to delay the start of classes for public school students across the state by a week to recognize the one-year anniversary of the Maui wildfires. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

3 Hawaii governors support former state lawmaker as race for state Senate seat heats up. Three Hawaii governors are backing former Democratic state Sen. Clayton Hee, who’s trying to win back his old seat in District 23 from Kaneohe to Wahiawa. Hee has the backing of long-time legislative friends of 40 years — former Govs. Neil Abercrombie, Ben Cayetano, and John Waihee. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

AAA Hawaiʻi: Gas prices decrease. Gas prices statewide are decreasing, according to the AAA Hawaiʻi Weekend Gas Watch. The statewide average price for regular unleaded is $4.72, which is four cents lower than last week. Maui Now.

Oahu

Future Of HART Line Extending Into City Center Hinges On Critical Contract Bid. This is the second time the rail authority solicited proposals for that segment. Last time the bids were $1 billion too high, forcing years of delays and some major cost cutting. Civil Beat.

Man, DLNR employee charged in death of monk seal pup on North Shore. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced Thursday  that its Office of General Counsel assessed Lesley Macpherson and James Armstrong Lyman a $20,000 penalty “in the case of an attack by unleashed dogs causing the death of a Hawaiian monk seal pup.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  KHON2.

Court temporarily halts Haiku Stairs’ demolition. The Friends of Haiku Stairs’ recently filed legal injunction to stop the city’s demolition of the World War II-era staircase, above Haiku Valley and the H-3 freeway in Kaneohe, partially advanced this week. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

HECO restores power to last 600 Chinatown customers. Hawaiian Electric said power has been restored to the remaining 600 customers in Chinatown at around 3:45 p.m. Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

After more than 40 years, Native Hawaiians in King's Landing could get long-term leases. A proposal to develop more than 1,300 acres in King’s Landing on Hawaiʻi Island is being considered by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Committee denies extension for Kona Vistas. When development of the Kona Vistas subdivision began in 1984 on Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway in Holualoa, the developers at the time planned for a second phase that would add a 450-unit multifamily housing project on a 69-acre parcel immediately south of the subdivision. Tribune-Herald.

43 Acres In Kaumana Purchased By Hawaiian Non-Profit For Affordable Housing. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement has acquired 43.08 acres of land in “the Kaumana subdivision of Ponahawai, Hilo” for an affordable housing development, said to be a first step towards establishing “a private land trust specifically for housing Native Hawaiian and other Hawai‘i families.”  Big Island Video News. KHON2.

Maui

Maui Golf Course Odor Prompts Council To Consider Repealing County Pesticide Ban. The required shift to organic fertilizer, and subsequent use of manure, spurred recent complaints. Civil Beat.

West Maui residents want bypass extended to ease daily traffic nightmare. Hawaii Department of Transportation officials promised residents they will open Honoapiilani Highway to help alleviate traffic on the Lahaina Bypass. Hawaii News Now.

Deaths, drugs, violence reported at Maui homeless shelter -- management responds to claims. According to the Maui Police Department, it received 174 calls from the site – ranging from assaults, narcotics, to terroristic threats – leading to 59 incident reports. MPD confirmed there have been four deaths at the facility since it opened weeks after the fires to house the pre-disaster homeless. KITV4.

Community supports rebuilding King Kamehameha III Elementary on historic Front Street. While it’s well-loved, the Front Street location is still in the fire recovery process and the property does not have space for future expansion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Change of zoning recommended for one of oldest buildings in Hāna town. The former Old Laundry Building in Hāna would be returned to commercial use in a bill providing for change of zoning to country-town business district for the structure located across from the Hāna-Maui Resort. Maui Now.

Kauai

Disaster awareness improves among Kauaʻi residents, county survey finds. The percentage of households with an emergency communication plan rose by 15% since 2023. Also, 80% of residents knew that they should have a 14-day supply of essential supplies like food, water and medication. Hawaii Public Radio.

Māla lā‘au coming to Wailuā Homesteads Park on Kaua‘i; nonprofit wants neighborhood input.  A county park on the East Side of Kaua‘i is set to add something unprecedented: A māla lā‘au, or forest garden, bringing well-being to the community around it. Kauai Now.

Hawaii climate policy at risk in SCOTUS lawsuit, state could hike fines for fire safety violations, hotel occupancy down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

SCOTUS ruling hints end is near for effort to make climate policy in state courts. If a beach erodes in Honolulu, can a company be sued for producing oil in Holland? And under Hawaii state laws to boot? Sunoco and other energy companies want such lawsuits tossed, arguing that energy policy is set by Congress at the federal level, not municipal lawsuits under state and local laws. Tribune News Service.

Legislation hiking fines for fire safety violations awaits action by Gov. Green. A bill that would allow counties to levy as much as a five-fold increase of monetary fines for fire safety violations is awaiting action by Gov. Josh Green. Maui Now.

Hawaii hotel occupancy fell in May as softness continued. Summer isn’t coming in hot for Hawaii hoteliers, who saw hotel occupancy drop to its lowest level of the year in May and are expecting a continued slowdown. Star-Advertiser.

Unlicensed Care Homes Dodge Increased Enforcement In ‘Cat And Mouse Game’ The Office of Health Care Assurance has issued cease-and-desist orders to an average of six homes per year since 2018. But dozens of these unlicensed facilities, mainly for elderly adults, continue to operate around the state. Civil Beat.

Private Donations Are Helping Hawaii Fire Departments Fill Budget Holes. Fire departments across the islands have long been on the lookout for funding to supplement their county-funded budgets. They apply for state and federal grants, but also look to private sources to fill financial gaps that national advocates say have widened in recent decades. Civil Beat.

Hawaii-developed COVID home test kits being sold online. A locally developed COVID-19 test kit is now on the market as cases of the contagious disease are on the rise in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Ethics Commission to review city gift-giving bill. Crafted with the assistance of the Ethics Commission, Bill 23 is supposed to tighten existing rules that bar city workers from accepting gifts valued in excess of $50, also clarifying which gifts may be solicited or accepted. Star-Advertiser.

Supporters of embattled rail CEO say her ongoing contract woes could cost taxpayers. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is still pushing hard to get a contract extension for embattled rail CEO Lori Kahikina. Hawaii News Now.

Downtown Honolulu is plagued by another power outage. Hawaiian Electric repair crews continued to work overnight after a power outage shut down downtown Honolulu — the second disruption in less than a week to affect the area. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Plans to demolish former PBS building provoke tempers at UH Board of Regents. The University of Hawaii Manoa campus building that housed PBS for decades is finally headed for demolition. But UH Regent and former Gov. Neil Abercrombie fought the plan, which provoked anger from UH President David Lassner. Hawaii News Now.

Oʻahu's new water desalination facility gets $19M in federal funds. The federal government is sending Oʻahu around $19 million for a facility to turn seawater into fresh water. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ex-OCCC officer in murder, kidnapping case called ‘emotional’. Police officers’ testimony Tuesday provided clues as to what was on the mind of a then 44-year-old Oahu Community Correctional Center training officer after he allegedly fatally shot his 66-year-old mother eight years ago in his Maili home. Star-Advertiser.

A deputy sheriff was arrested Tuesday amid a harassment investigation and was placed on paid administrative leave. Authorities said Alvin Turla, 47 was arrested at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

‘It’s out of control’: E-bike crashes and noise concerns spur heated townhall in Ewa. With e-bikes growing in popularity, a town hall in Ewa was held to raise awareness about how to ride them safely. However, concerns about safety, noise, and confusion about e-bike laws have caused pushback from some residents.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Council favors proposed performance audit of Hawai‘i County R&D Department. The Hawai‘i County Council wants to know exactly what the Hawai‘i County Department of Research and Development is doing and if its resources are being used effectively. Big Island Now.

Call center nearly complete: Police and fire dispatchers could move in this September. Hawaii County’s police and fire dispatchers are getting closer to moving into a new call center that has been under construction since October 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Community hospital survey finds need for new medical facility closer to Kailua-Kona. A healthcare needs survey from Kona Community Hospital found the need for more preventative care providers and the need to build a new facility. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui residents: The state wants to know if you don’t have access to broadband internet. State data shows 1 in 10 people do not have access to high-speed internet. Hawaii News Now.

Maui nonprofit offers 40 job opportunities to assist in wildfire relief efforts. Youth job training nonprofit Kupu has positions starting at $16 an hour within resource hubs and education centers. Hawaii News Now.

Community feedback sessions report released on the rebuild plan for King Kamehameha III Elementary in Lahaina. The three choices presented to the community were: the original location on Front Street; Pulelehua, which is near the current temporary location; and Kā’anapali 2020–Pu’ukoli’i Village Mauka. Maui News.

Officials working to curb illegal camping, trespassing at popular South Maui beach. While illegal camping has been an ongoing issue along South Maui shores, some say the problem has gotten worse specifically at Po'olenalena Beach Park over the past few months.  KITV4.

Kauai

Are Kauai residents ready for an emergency? County releases results from new preparedness survey. Did you know 38% of Kauai residents have only one evacuation route in case of an emergency?That’s according to a new county survey of 177 residents conducted earlier in June. Hawaii News Now.