Hawaii former governors worried about future, Honolulu to increase bus fares for seniors and disabled, Kim proposes another TMT delay, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu bus stop  ©2020 All Hawaii News

Four Ex-Hawaii Governors Say They Fear For Our Future. Civil Beat interviewed four of Hawaii’s most prominent leaders. They had a lot to say about our growing social and economic problems and the lack of leadership to help resolve them. Civil Beat.

Six Feet Above: Where To Draw The Line On Sea Level Rise. Lawmakers are considering how far to set back new developments as well as specific strategies to deal with climate change. Civil Beat.

Kealoha case fuels push to change pension laws for disgraced government employees. Ex-Honolulu Police Chief and convicted felon Louis Kealoha continues to get a pension paycheck ― estimated to be upwards of $150,000 per year. Hawaii News Now.

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Some angered over state’s limited information on 2 visitors later diagnosed with coronavirus. Some Hawaii residents are upset the state did not reveal more information about two visitors who were diagnosed with coronavirus after returning to Japan from a trip to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii tourist from Japan with coronavirus is now in critical condition. Officials confirmed that the Japanese man first tested positive for the coronavirus before his wife. KHON2.

Ewa Beach couple describes ‘nightmare’ getting out of quarantined ship. About 300 Americans quarantined on a cruise ship in Japan have been transported to two US military bases. KHON2.

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Taking a phased-in approach: Proposal to strengthen coffee labeling requirements amended. House Bill 1886, as currently written, would gradually increase the minimum percentage of Hawaii-grown coffee from 10% to 51% over a three-year period, rather than an immediate implementation to the higher minimum as initially proposed. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Honolulu Proposes Increase To Senior, Disabled Bus Fares. The Honolulu Rate Commission proposed an increase in the city's bus fares for riders including those who are 65 and older, riders holding Medicare cards and passengers with disabilities. Associated Press.

Rail authority hasn’t applied for Dillingham Boulevard closure permits, city says. The Honolulu rail authority has yet to submit a firm design for Dillingham Boulevard utility construction work or formally apply for the permits it needs to restrict traffic flow there to one lane in each direction, raising new doubts about the rail authority’s timeline for some critically important construction work. Star-Advertiser.

Flock of warbirds planned for flyover on 75th anniversary of WWII’s end. Planning for the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II has taken a major step forward with authorization for the military to transport up to 24 World War II-era aircraft and their pilots to and from Pearl Harbor for the commemoration. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor asks TMT to delay construction for two more months. The current truce between the Thirty Meter Telescope and its opponents might be extended by another two months at the request of Mayor Harry Kim. Tribune-Herald.

Thirty Meter Telescope Supporters Hold Panel Discussion. Imua TMT organized a talk story at the Crown Room of the Grand Naniloa Hotel on Sunday. Big Island Video News.

TMT supporters, opponents clash over debris at Mauna Kea camp. A couple of TMT supporters have been taking videos and photos of what they call trash and debris left by the protesters. But TMT opponents say it’s an effort to discredit and undermine the kiai.  Hawaii News Now.

Rat Lungworm spreading to Coqui frogs, centipedes in Hawaii. The crippling Rat Lungworm disease is spreading in Hawaii. KHON2.

Maui

Property taxes due Thursday. Real property tax bills for the second installment of tax year 2019-20 are due Thursday, according to a notice from the county. Maui News.

Preliminary Signs for Moku ‘O Wailuku Ahupua‘a Project to be Unveiled. The Moku ʻO Wailuku Ahupuaʻa Sign project is a cultural grants program funded by the County of Maui Office of Economic Development that aims to bring awareness of Maui Nui’s ancient land division system. Maui Now.

Kauai

High bacteria counts in 2019. More than half of stream mouths and surf spots around Kaua‘i tested by the citizen science branch of the Kaua‘i chapter of Surfrider Foundation had chronically high levels of bacteria in 2019. Garden Island.

Flawed coronavirus test kits sent to Hawaii, Hawaiian Electric earnings jump 33.7%, Hawaiian group sues over Mauna Kea access road, Florence Puana dies at 100, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Legal observers on Mauna Kea access road on July 20, 2019 ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaiians sue over use of Mauna Kea Access Road. Three Native Hawaiian beneficiaries sued the state today claiming that it has violated the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act by using Mauna Kea Access Road without any compensation. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit questions state’s authority over Maunakea Access Road. A Native Hawaiian advocacy group has sued the state for its management of the land around the Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald.

Breach Of Trust Lawsuit Filed Over Mauna Kea Access Road. After warning the state of their intent to sue, three Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries are taking the state and various officials to court over the management and use of road. Big Island Video News.

Suit: State owes Homelands beneficiaries decades of back rent for Mauna Kea road.  In a new lawsuit, the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation claims the state hasn’t been paying rent for using the land under a portion of Mauna Kea Access Road. Hawaii News Now.

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The coronavirus test kits that were sent to Hawaii are flawed, officials said. Lt. Gov. Josh Green said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention first sent Hawaii’s test kits to the wrong state. He said when they finally arrived, they were damaged. They were sent again, but he said they didn’t work. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii among several states having to wait to use coronavirus test kits. Hawaii is among several states that have to wait to use coronavirus test kits. KITV4.

Senator Brian Schatz calling on HHS to set clear guidelines amidst coronavirus outbreak. Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz wants to know how the federal government will reimburse states for the cost of helping respond to the coronavirus. KITV4.

2 Hawaii residents on quarantined cruise ship off Japan contract coronavirus. Two Hawaii residents on a quarantined cruise ship off Japan have contracted the coronavirus, family members and officials said. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii resident on ship in Japan tests positive for new coronavirus. At least one Hawaii resident on a cruise ship quarantined in Yokohama near Tokyo has tested positive for the new coronavirus, as Japan confirmed its first death from the rapidly spreading disease. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Governor confirms Hawaii passenger on Diamond Princess cruise ship tested positive for coronavirus. Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Josh Green has confirmed that a Hawaii passenger on the Diamond Princess cruise ship tested positive for the Coronavirus. KHON2.

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What To Expect From Hawaii's Presidential Primary. The state’s Democratic Party is rolling out a new system for collecting members’ votes. The Republican Party cancelled its primary and awarded its delegates to President Donald Trump. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Senate heard two bills on Thursday that it hopes will keep all e-cigarettes out of kids' hands. State lawmakers want to take a federal ban on flavored vaping cartridges one step further. KITV4.

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State works on plan to combat newly introduced pest that preys on avocado plants. The state Department of Agriculture has identified a new pest in Hawaii. And the bug is attracted to avocado plants. Hawaii News Now.

New Pest Attacking Avocado Trees In Hawaiʻi. The lace bug, which damages leaves on avocado trees and reduces fruit yields, has been found on the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

New Avocado Pest Identified on Big Island. A new avocado pest has been identified and confirmed on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

New invasive species target avocados. There are a new invasive species in the islands, and it’s attacking avocados. KHON2.

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Hawaiian Electric Industries’ earnings jump 33.7%. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s earnings soared 33.7% in the fourth quarter as it achieved solid performances from both its utility and American Savings Bank. Star-Advertiser.

Former President Barack Obama’s childhood home in Manoa is up for sale. The Manoa home where former President Barack Obama grew up is up for sale. Obama lived in the University Avenue home from 1964 to 1967 — starting when he was just 3 years old. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City road closure permits holding up rail work. The award of what is expected to be the largest public works contract in city history has been delayed in part because the city rail authority hasn’t been able to obtain city permits for work along the rail line, according to a consultant that is overseeing the rail project for the federal government. Star-Advertiser.

HART Grapples With Lessons Learned From West Side Rail Construction. Critics now worry HART is moving too slowly, but the agency found it previously moved too fast without proper planning. Civil Beat.

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Florence Puana / 1919-2020: Centenarian helped bring Kealoha couple to justice. She was a great-great-great-grandmother with an eighth grade education from Makawao, Maui, who helped bring one of Honolulu’s most powerful and corrupt couples to justice. Star-Advertiser.

Florence Puana, Grandmother of Katherine Kealoha, Dies At Age 100. She was a key witness against her granddaughter and former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha during their recent public corruption trial. Civil Beat.

Grandmother Who Helped Convict Honolulu Power Couple Dies. The grandmother of a former Honolulu deputy city prosecutor who was at the center of a federal corruption case has died. Associated Press.

Florence Puana, key figure in case against Kealohas, dies at 100. Florence Puana, a central figure in the case against the Kealohas, died Thursday morning at home, family members said. She was 100 years old. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Big Brothers Big Sisters closing Big Island programs. Youth mentoring opportunities on the Big Island are being diminished with the closing of Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawaii Island programs at the end of the month. West Hawaii Today.

Pedestrian dies; snarling Puna traffic for hours. The pedestrian killed during rush-hour traffic Thursday morning on Highway 130 near the Keaau Transfer Station was struck by at least three vehicles, police said. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Retiring liquor director lauds changes enacted. Glenn Mukai set to leave post at month’s end after 3 1/2 years. Outgoing Liquor Control Department Director Glenn Mukai skirted the controversy of his three-year tenure on Wednesday, instead opting to praise staff, boards and community members for working to improve liquor rules and streamline procedures for licensees. Maui News.

Eucalyptus, pine tree removal in Piiholo. More than 40 eucalyptus and pine trees in hazardous locations are scheduled for removal by the state by spring, with the first dozen set to come down next week in the Makawao State Forest Reserve. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor to KFD: cut overtime. The mayor’s office has ordered the Kaua‘i Fire Department to suspend most — if not all — overtime and nonessential expenditures after discovering, the administration said, that KFD had been forced to make $1.2 million in unplanned retirement payments due to “spiking” of overtime. Garden Island.

Fixing four bridges. If the weather cooperates, the historic 1911 Hanapepe bridge on Hanapepe Road over the Hanapepe River should re-open to vehicular traffic by the end of the month, said county Department of Water Engineer Dustin Moises Wednesday during a talk story session hosted by the Hanapepe Economic Alliance to a standing-room-only audience at the Hanapepe Recreation Center. Garden Island.

Hawaiians Use Shuttle To Drop Knowledge On Tourists. A company worked with scholars to develop a message that educates visitors en route to the North Shore about the place and its people. Civil Beat.

Bill would allow exemptions from child vaccinations, Airbnb sends campaign cash, Honolulu prosecutor could be term-limited, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii corrections officer ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Prison Reformers Call For New Approach To Guard Training. An overhaul of the training program is competing with many other priorities. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers consider bill that would allow for ‘conscientious’ exemption for child vaccines. New state child vaccinations requirements are about to kick in. But some parents are calling on lawmakers to delay the new rules — or make it easier to exempt children. Hawaii News Now.

State Health Laboratory to begin testing for novel coronavirus. The State Department of Health said beginning next week Hawaii should be able to test for coronavirus at the State Laboratory in Pearl City. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers explore controversial ‘Stand Your Ground’ laws. State Representative Sean Quinlan's proposal would allow people to defend themselves on their own property or at their business, without fear of criminal prosecution. Hawaii News Now.

Environmental groups contend in lawsuit that the EPA has not protected Hawaii’s shorelines. Environmental groups last week filed suit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, saying plastic is undoubtedly a criterion and that the EPA has failed to protect 17 coastal water bodies around Hawaii from wide-scale plastic pollution under the federal Clean Water Act. Star-Advertiser.

Inouye pushes for stricter DUI law. A bill that would lower the blood-alcohol content for drivers to be considered legally intoxicated was passed unanimously Wednesday by the state Senate Transportation Committee. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii legislators advance bill to create LGBTQ commission. Hawaii state legislators have preliminarily approved a bill that would create a commission to address issues concerning the LGBTQ community. Associated Press.

Bills target dog-tethering. Improperly chaining dogs could become illegal later this year if a pair of animal cruelty bills passes the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

Bills would toughen penalties for assaulting, threatening sports officials. A pair of bills introduced this legislative session by state senators from Oahu seeks harsher penalties for parents, spectators and athletes who assault or terrorize sports officials such as referees, umpires and coaches. Tribune-Herald.

Survey Shows Extent of Sexual Harassment Among UH Students. The University of Hawaiʻi officially released its latest biennial student survey on sexual harassment and gender-based violence, issues that are prevalent among college students nationwide. Maui Now.

State could pay $1 million to settle lawsuits. Measures before the Legislature would appropriate more than $1 million to settle claims against the state — $650,000 of which would go toward a lawsuit over the 2014 death of a teenager who was riding a scooter on a Likelike Highway onramp. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Bets Her Presidential Campaign On New Hampshire. The Hawaii congresswoman, who performed dismally in Iowa, has pretty much lived in the Granite State since December and hosted more than 100 events. Civil Beat.

Oahu

All prosecutor candidates but 1 agree with 2-term limit. Oahu voters will be asked in November whether they want to stop future Honolulu city prosecutors from serving more than two consecutive terms. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands turn out to tour the nearly complete Halaulani city rail station. The general public got its first chance to visit a city rail station Saturday ahead of initial limited service projected to start 10 months from now. Star-Advertiser.

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HART opens the doors to rail cars and platform for a community preview. Days after the mayor scrapped plans to renovate the Blaisdell Center over concerns of rail costs, the public had a chance to check out the already-completed rail facilities that have been years, and billions of dollars, in the making. Hawaii News Now.

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Controversial Kahuku wind farm is built, what's next? All eight turbines in Na Pua Makani wind farm in Kahuku are built as construction and commissioning activities march forward. KITV4.

Emergency repairs begin on crumbling highway near Crouching Lion, snarling traffic. With high surf pounding shores across the state, erosion is continuing to cause problem for some, including an already troubled portion of highway on Oahu’s windward side. Hawaii News Now.

Owners at affordable condo to appeal after seeing their property taxes skyrocket. Nearly 50 owners of affordable condos at an Ala Moana area highrise are appealing their city property tax assessments. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Tower restaurant Gordon Biersch closes after 26 years. After 26 years of business, Gordon Biersch at Aloha Tower has been closed for good. KHON2.

Oahu condo sales rise 16%, median price up by 7.5%. Condominium sales on Oahu increased by 16% in January as the median price rose 7.5%, compared to a year ago, while single-family home sales increased 8% as the median price remained flat, according to statistics from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Airbnb fattens four council campaign war chests. Four Hawaii County Council members each received a $500 contribution from Airbnb last year, although the source of their money wasn’t obvious. West Hawaii Today.

Puna Kai work continues. Despite the developer’s assurance last fall that many retailers in the Puna Kai shopping center would be open by Thanksgiving, work is still underway on the Pahoa project. Tribune-Herald.

Time is ticking for a bill to secure funding for an ambulance to be stationed at Makalei Fire Station, and it doesn’t look like it has a promising future. The closest ambulance-equipped fire station is 8 miles away in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

DHHL Takes On Abandoned Vehicles in Makuʻu. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands says it is working to address abandoned vehicles, trespassing and unpermitted structures in the Makuʻu homestead area. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Island home sales get off to roaring start in 2020. Single-family home sales on Hawaii Island got off to a roaring start in January, with a 44% increase in sales and a 25% increase in the median price, compared to a year ago, while the median price of a condominium jumped 32%, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Top elections officials approved. County Council OKs Kaohu, Krueger for Clerk’s Office. Maui News.

Lab: Mahi Pono’s potato crop is free from chemical residuals. Amid questions over farming practices and the quality of its produce, third-party testing of Mahi Pono potatoes for 400 chemicals shows that they are free from pesticide residuals and safe for eating, the company said. Maui News.

ML&P sells 46 acres of Kapalua Resort for nearly $44M. Maui Land & Pineapple Co. reached an agreement to sell 46 acres at the center of its Kapalua Resort for nearly $44 million to Delaware limited-liability company KCRMD LLC, according to financial filings. Maui News.

Grand Wailea delay proves barriers to enter Maui’s hotel market. Expansion plans for the Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, recently hit another snag when the Maui Planning Commission granted a petition to intervene in the wake of community pushback against the $150 million project. Star-Advertiser.

Costs for Maui County seniors high. Maui County’s kupuna face some of the highest cost of living challenges in the nation, with some shelling out more than $5,000 annually for necessities compared to their Mainland counterparts, a recent study shows. Maui News.

Kauai

Hanapepe bridges, other topics part of mayor’s talk story. The Hanapepe Economic Alliance is hosting a talk story session Wednesday, Feb. 12, beginning at 5:30 p.m., for Hanapepe and ‘Ele‘ele communities, to discuss the status of the four bridges in the Hanapepe area, led by Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i is good place to start a small business. A recent study from SmartAsset, a New York Financial company discovered that Kaua’i is one of the top islands in the state to start a small business. Maui comes in at first, with Kaua’i at second, Hawai‘i Island at third and Oahu in last. Garden Island.

Eradication unlikely. An invasive weed community members have been battling for years along the Kilauea River is creeping back along the banks, growing rapidly in a thick blanket of green that is known to take over the surface of lakes and slow-moving water. Garden Island.

Kauai single-family home prices jump 16%. The median price of a single-family home on Kauai rose 16% in January, compared to a year ago, and the median price of a condominium declined by 18% while sales of both categories dropped, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Ige tied for nation's least popular governor, Honolulu rail delayed again, Obama memorabilia sought, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. David Ige

Gov. David Ige tied for least popular governor in the nation, poll finds. Hawaii voters have been disillusioned with Gov. David Ige’s job performance for some time, but a new national survey suggests Ige’s public approval ratings have hit rock bottom. Star-Advertiser.

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State to step away from Dillingham Airfield, transfer property back to U.S. Army. The state Department of Transportation plans to stop operating the Dillingham Airfield and will transfer control of the North Shore property back to the U.S. Army, state officials said late Thursday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

State To Pull Out Of Dillingham Airfield, Leaving Businesses Up In The Air. Hundreds of employees who work at the airfield or indirectly depend on it could be affected by the state’s decision to walk away. Civil Beat.

Closure of Dillingham Airfield could affect hundreds of jobs. A state lawmaker expressed outrage that hundreds of jobs and a valuable North Shore recreational resource for skydiving, gliders and ultralights may be lost following the sudden decision by the state Department of Transportation to cease operations at Dillingham Airfield. Star-Advertiser.

FAA challenges DOT’s plan to vacate Dillingham Airfield this summer. The state’s attempt to get out early from its lease of Dillingham Airfield has raised alarm bells at the Federal Aviation Administration. KHON2.

What is the future of the Dillingham Airfield? The Hawaii Department of Transportation announced Thursday that it is terminating its lease of the Dillingham Airfield. KITV4.

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Tangled Web Of Campaign Cash Connects Hawaii To Maine. Tens of thousands of dollars in contributions have flowed from a Hawaii defense contractor, his family and employees to a Maine Republican senator. Civil Beat.

Bill Forfeiting Worker Benefits In Felony Cases Advances. Hawaii is one of only a few states that has no such law for government employees. Civil Beat.

State proposal aims to repeal electric guns ban. There are many types of electric guns and under this measure, it includes stun guns and the type that shoot out electrical prongs. KHON2.

State lawmakers continue to push for stricter gun laws including banning ghost guns. According to the Bureau of Alchohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives these weapons are legal because what you're getting is not a complete firearm. KITV4.

New proposal to stop ID checks for people who look over 21. Under a new proposal in the Hawaii legislature, if a sales clerk believes a person is over 21 then the clerk won’t need to ask them for an ID check. KHON2.

State Lawmakers Are Weighing A Slate Of Bills That Affect Native Hawaiians. But DHHL reforms and measures that cover cultural practitioners have a long way to go this session. Civil Beat.

Obama memorabilia sought for presidential museum exhibits. Bishop Museum is looking for people with unique memorabilia or souvenirs tied to former President Barack Obama. The Obama Foundation is planning to display them at his future Presidential Center Museum in Chicago. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu's rail project faces another delay. According to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, rail's first 11-mile segment will now open on December 20th, two months later than their most recent promise. KITV4.

City Council grills rail officials over delays through urban core. City Councilmembers grilled rail officials Thursday over the progress of the 20-mile project, raising concerns about delays through Kalihi and Downtown. Hawaii News Now.

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Honolulu police chief offers plans to curb violence. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard offered plans Thursday to address the increase in violent crime and use of firearms in crimes on Oahu, including purse snatchings, while the department is lacking a sufficient number of patrol officers. Star-Advertiser.

HPD details plans, ideas to fight recent rise in violent crimes. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard is addressing a recent spike in violent crime, especially those with firearms. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers push to create new crisis center aimed at diverting the mentally ill from jail. A group of lawmakers is pushing to create a new crisis center on Oahu that would be designed to help those in mental health crisis. Instead of sending the mentally ill to jail for petty crimes, officers would have the option of taking them to the specialized clinic to have them checked out by a physician instead. Hawaii News Now.

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Sherwood Forest resolutions draw community criticism. Two recently drafted city resolutions meant to be an agreement between opposing sides of the construction project at Sherwood Forest are drawing criticism from community members. Star-Advertiser.

Ala Moana plan for no-leash dog park removed. Plans for an off-leash dog park at Ala Moana Regional Park have been scrapped by the Caldwell administration, city Parks Director Michele Nekota told members of the City Council Budget Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

UH Manoa wants to relocate parking stalls to create more pedestrian friendly spaces. The plan is to get rid of some driveways and replace them with walkways, benches and tables. KITV4.


New boss to lead Ward Village development in Kakaako. Ward Village has a new executive overseeing development of the growing high-rise community in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bid at water-bottling plant in comes up dry again. An attempt to resurrect a rejected proposal for a water-bottling plant in Hilo was quashed again Thursday by the Windward Planning Commission. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Water Bottling Proposal Returns To Commission. The Piʻilani Partners, LLC application - remanded to the Windward Planning Commission by an order of the Third Circuit Court - was again denied by commissioners on Thursday. Big Island Video News.

Residents critical of AT&T cell tower proposal. A proposed AT&T cellphone tower to be built in Kurtistown generated public outcry Thursday after the telecommunications company apparently failed to provide proper notice to nearby residents. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Utility pays solar projects $222K. Hawaiian Electric seeks to pass on cost of unused power to customers. Hawaiian Electric compensated two Maui solar farms a total of $222,000 for curtailing, or not accepting, 2 gigawatt hours of solar power in 2019, according to filings with the state Public Utilities Commission last month. Maui News.

CIP Funds Released for Lahaina Health Center. Representative Angus L.K. McKelvey (West Maui, Mā‘alaea, North Kīhei) today announced that Governor David Ige has released $506,000 in Capital Improvement Project funds, part of which will be used for the design and construction for renovations, repairs and improvements at the Lahaina Comprehensive Health Center on Maui. Maui Now.

Culture can’t be contained to classroom. Hawaiian immersion teachers work to teach culture and language in Western system. Maui News.

Kauai

The agrichemical company Corteva Agriscience is phasing out production of the pesticide chlorpyrifos. Corteva grows corn and other crops on the Westside, and sells chlorpyrifos under the Lorsban brand. Garden Island.

Aila DHHL confirmation hearing contentious, Honolulu rail board mulls new contractor, multiple firearms found in ashes at tragedy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Aila presides over Oct. 21, 2019 DHHL hearing ©2020 All Hawaii News

DHHL chief nominee draws disagreement. The state Senate Hawaiian Affairs Committee on Thursday decided to defer for a week a vote on the nomination of William J. Aila as Department of of Hawaiian Home Lands chairman after a nearly eight-hour-long hearing Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Senators Delay Vote After Grilling Aila As Head Of Hawaiian Home Lands. The governor’s nominee was applauded for projects he’s moved forward but concerns remain over the agency’s continued backlog. Civil Beat.

State senate panel defers decision on Aila nomination to helm DHHL. William Aila’s nomination to chair the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands hit a speed bump Thursday as a state senate panel deferred a decision on his confirmation until next week. Hawaii News Now.

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Amid rematch bid, Republican Sam Slom accuses incumbent of ‘socialist agenda’. Sam Slom, former Republican senator from East Honolulu, wants his longtime seat back. And he’s coming out swinging, accusing the incumbent of having a “socialist agenda.”.  Hawaii News Now.

12 presidential candidates will appear on Hawaii’s Democratic primary ballot. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will be among 12 other presidential candidates on Hawaii’s Democratic primary ballot. Hawaii News Now.

In the wake of the deadly rampage in Diamond Head, Honolulu’s police chief says she wants to tighten loopholes in Hawaii’s already tough gun laws. There are now 38 gun proposals moving through the Legislature ― and more than a dozen were introduced since the weekend shooting. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Measure Aims To Encourage Guilty, No Contest Pleas In Domestic Violence Cases. Advocates for victims in Hawaii domestic violence cases are backing a proposal to reduce certain domestic violence cases from felonies to misdemeanors. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill package addresses wind farms in Hawaii. A host of bills looking to address utility-scale wind energy projects near residential areas in Hawaii has been introduced for this year’s legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

The state Health Department is warning local companies that make, distribute or sell flavored cartridge or pod-based e-cigarettes to stop, or risk enforcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Cartridge-based e-cigarettes are smaller, according to the department, and are often called “pods,” “vapes,” or “JUUL,” a popular brand. These hi-tech e-cigarettes are popular with middle and high school students because they are easy to conceal, and users do not emit large plumes when exhaling. Star-Advertiser.

Public Safety’s New Alert System Requires Sign Up. The Hawai‘i Department of Public Safety is transitioning to a new public notification system called AlertSense, effective Feb. 1, 2020. All alerts that were on the Nixle Alert system will end Jan. 31. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Caldwell Talks Homelessness, HUD and Honolulu Rail In Washington DC. The Honolulu mayor is in the nation’s capital this week for the U.S. Conference of Mayors. He’s also meeting with federal officials about the city’s largest ever public works project. Civil Beat.

With rail work running late, city might hire new contractor. Critically important utility work in the city center segment of the Honolulu rail line is still running behind schedule, and the rail authority is preparing to hire a second contractor to ensure the work is finished on time and does not delay construction of the last portion of the 20-mile rail system. Star-Advertiser.

HART Struggles To Keep Critical Utility Work On Schedule. The rail agency is eager for crews to work on Dillingham during the day, but the move is sure to take a heavy traffic toll on Kalihi. Civil Beat.

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Guns found at Hibiscus Drive not registered to homeowner or late husband, Chief Ballard says. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard said today that multiple firearms have been recovered from the debris at 3015 Hibiscus Drive, but checks of the names of people who lived at the Diamond Head home showed that the weapons were not registered to the homeowner or her late husband. Star-Advertiser.

Multiple firearms recovered from Sunday’s shooting, arson incident. According to the Honolulu Police Department, multiple firearms were recovered at 3015 Hibiscus Drive. KHON2.

Multiple firearms found in charred remains of the homes along Hibiscus Drive. More evidence surrounding Sunday's tragic events in Diamond Head is being found during the ongoing investigation by Honolulu Police. KITV4.

Possession of guns key to potential lawsuits. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard’s announcement Thursday that multiple firearms were recovered from the debris at 3015 Hibiscus Drive might serve as a linchpin in the likely litigation of a Sunday crime spree that left two police officers dead and seven homes destroyed by fire. Star-Advertiser.

Hibiscus Drive violence could have been prevented, landlord’s friend says. Thursday morning on Hibiscus Drive, after the reopening of the street and restoration of power to homes for the first time since Sunday’s violence and raging fire, a woman and man stood at a window overlooking the field of ashes left where the blaze burned seven homes to the ground, where a few charred fragments and a sturdy white fence remained standing. Star-Advertiser.

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Prosecutor’s office arresting witnesses, victims with warrants ahead of them testifying. Prosecutors recently started looking for warrants of witnesses and victims who are set to testify in upcoming trials. Hawaii News Now.

‘Point in Time’ survey tallies Oahu’s homeless. Outreach workers fanned out across Oahu on Thursday — starting at 4 a.m. — to survey the island’s homeless population in a one-day, compressed census as part of the nationwide Point in Time Count. Star-Advertiser.

Ewa is tops in people surveyed wanting to move elsewhere. 5% of the people in the Ewa area who plan to move over the next few years say they want to relocate to a different part of the island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County working on new deal for state reimbursement for TMT-related costs. More than a month after the Hawaii County Council rejected a $10 million deal with the state to reimburse police costs related to the standoff at Maunakea Access Road, a new agreement has still not been finalized. Tribune-Herald.

South Kona homeowner facing fine for illegal vacation rental. A South Kona homeowner is facing thousands in fines for reportedly operating an illegal vacation rental a stone’s throw from Pebble Beach. West Hawaii Today.

County wants to seize, sell site of former homeless camp. The former site of a homeless camp in downtown Hilo may be sold off to pay for fines the owners owe the county. Tribune-Herald.

Van Pernis confirmed to Leeward Planning Commission. Mark Van Pernis endured a second round of grilling Wednesday before being confirmed to the Leeward Planning Commission by a 6-3 vote. West Hawaii Today.

Feedback sought on hazard mitigation plan. A small group of individuals turned out Wednesday to learn more about the pending update to the county’s multi-hazard mitigation plan. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Plan aims to improve South Maui watersheds. Proposed projects would curb polluted runoff, help to protect plants from livestock. Maui News.

‘Most Hawaiian hotel’ gets makeover: KBH to undergo $65M ‘renewal’. Beachfront restaurant, more parking on tap. The Ka’anapali Beach Hotel will undergo a $65 million “property enhancement project” this spring that will include a new beachfront restaurant, redesign of its 180-room Kauai wing and an additional floor of parking. Maui News.

Former Boys & Girls Club employee gets year in jail. Victoria Satoafaiga sexually assaulted girl when she was assistant director. Maui News.

Kauai

County dumps need work. The County of Kauai is continuing work to get the Kekaha Landfill up to state Department of Health standards after receiving a warning letter from the DOH in November. Garden Island.

Garden Island editor moves on. After nearly seven years on Kauai, we’re returning to our home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Garden Island.

University officials grilled over budget, Honolulu mayor signs plastics ban, Kauai woman, Mormon church, settle over child sex assault claims, Mauna Kea obstruction defense cites war crimes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii - Hilo ©2019 All Hawaii News

UH Executive Salary Hikes, $2.7M Enrollment Contract Under Scrutiny. State lawmakers grilled University of Hawaii President David Lassner on Friday about the university's spending, focusing on a $2.7 million consultant contract to increase enrollment and recent salary increases for UH vice presidents. Hawaii Public Radio.

Senators question University of Hawaii officials over spending and raises. State senators grilled University of Hawaii President David Lassner on Friday for hiring an outside firm to help recruit new students and giving his vice presidents raises when student enrollment overall has dropped. Star-Advertiser.

Senators Think UH Regents Are ‘Too Cozy’ With Officials. A Senate panel will be digging into university issues in the next month. Civil Beat.

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State employees say supervisors are spying on them with taxpayer-funded cameras. Over the course of the last year, an additional set of surveillance cameras have been installed at the state parole office on Alakea Street. Hawaii News Now.

State budgets $2.5M to replace state Capitol’s carpeting. The price tag for a project to replace the carpets in offices and meeting rooms on four floors of the state Capitol is approaching $2 million, with crews working seven days a week to get the first phase of the job finished in time for the Jan. 15 opening of the state Legislature, according to state Comptroller Curt Otaguro. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Single-use plastic ban becomes law on Oahu. Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Sunday signed into law one of the nation’s strictest bans on plastics, which will prohibit all single-use plastic plates, bowls, cups and serv­ice ware on Oahu by 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor signs Plastic Ban into law. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell signs one of the strictest plastics ban into law Sunday following a 7-2 vote on the City Council level earlier this month. KHON2.

Bill 40 signed into law, banning most disposable plastics on Oahu by 2022. Supporters say protests from Hawaii's food manufacturers and restaurant owners allowed them to work together to include exemptions for local businesses. KITV.

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Ala Moana park playground backers announce relocation. A nonprofit group that has been working to build an inclusive playground at Ala Moana Regional Park announced Saturday that it now will focus on building the playground at Kakaako Makai Gateway Park. Star-Advertiser.

Controversial Playground Moving To Kaka'ako From Ala Moana. An inclusive playground planned at Ala Moana Regional Park will instead be built in Kaka'ako Makai Gateway Park, the group that lobbied for the project announced Saturday. Hawaii Public Radio.

A controversial playground planned for Ala Moana is headed to Kakaako. Supporters of a controversial playground at Ala Moana Beach Park officially announced Saturday that they are moving the project to Kakaako. Hawaii News Now.

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HART Reversed Course And Fired Embattled Employee. HART’s top executive has declined to say who advised the rail agency regarding former agency information specialist, Russell Yamanoha. Civil Beat.

Aiea Board Gives Its Blessing To Preliminary Plans For A New Jail. In a surprise move, after early indications they would oppose the project, the Aiea Neighborhood Board has given its blessing to the state’s next planning steps toward building a new jail in Halawa to replace the decrepit Oahu Community Correctional Center in Kalihi. Civil Beat.

Naval Air Museum Barbers Point cleaning up after eviction. The Naval Air Museum Barbers Point is busy clearing out exhibits and displays since getting evicted by the state over five weeks ago. KITV.

Spalding House’s closure brings mixed emotions, memories to those who loved it. The parking lot at Spalding House, the museum tucked away in Makiki Heights, has been packed this month as dozens of visitors walk its grounds one last time. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County bill seeks to update energy code. Proposed amendments to the county’s conservation code intended to reduce power use and construction costs will be discussed at a county committee meeting next week. Tribune-Herald.

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Attorneys Plan To Argue State Engaging In “War Crimes”. Attorneys representing some of the kupuna arrested on the Mauna Kea Access Road in opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope plan to fight obstruction charges on grounds that are related to the occupation of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Big Island Video News.

5-year window for state to reimburse Hawaii county for Mauna Kea law enforcement. It took the state and county to November 1 to sign their written agreement on how the state will reimburse the county for police overtime relating to the blockade. Hawaii News Now.

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With Highway 132 open, county officials focus on recovery efforts for other lava-hit areas. About 13 miles of public roads were inundated by lava during the eruption last year, including portions of Highway 132, Highway 137, Pohoiki Road, Leilani Avenue, Hinalo Street, Honuaula Street and Lighthouse Road. Tribune-Herald.

Kimball launches council campaign. Surrounded by a small but vocal crowd of supporters yelling out a paddler’s cheer, Heather Kimball on Friday launched her campaign for the open County Council District 1 seat. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Vacation Rental Fine Hikes to Take Effect. Beginning Dec. 27, illegal short-term vacation rentals will be fined $20,000, plus another $10,000 each day the operation continues. Maui Now.

Nonresidents Will Soon Have to Pay for Parking at Big Beach. Beginning the first week of January, nonresidents will have to pay $5 for parking at the Makena State Park, the Department of Land and Natural Resources announced Friday. Maui Now.

Illegal Parking, Trespassing at Jaws Challenge Sparks Community Concern. Representatives from the Hana Highway Regulation committee say they received numerous complaints from Haʻikū residents regarding illegal parking and trespassing on private property during the contest on Thursday. Maui Now.

Kauai

Settlement reached in church suit. The Mormon Church has settled a lawsuit by a Kauai woman, who accused a missionary of molesting her as a child. Garden Island.

Kuhio Highway closures begin today. The Hawaii Department of Transportation reminds the public of temporary full closures on Kuhio Highway at Mile Marker 1, the hill approaching Hanalei Bridge. Garden Island.

Trump honors fallen Hawaii soldier, Monsanto fined $10M for illegal pesticide on Maui, Legislature to mull red light cameras, former judge launches bid for Honolulu prosecutor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kirk T. Fuchigami PC:Department of Defense

Fallen Keaau soldier remembered as ‘strong, courageous’. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kirk Takeshi Fuchigami Jr., an Army pilot, was participating in a night raid when the Apache helicopter crashed. Tribune-Herald.

Trump pays respects to Army officers killed in Afghanistan. President Donald Trump paid respects Thursday to two Army officers who were killed when their helicopter crashed this week in Afghanistan, holding his salute until each of the flag-draped cases containing their remains were returned to their grieving families. Associated Press.

Big Isle man, 25, among 2 Army aviators killed in Afghanistan chopper crash. A Hawaii Island man who had recently started a deployment to Afghanistan was one of two U.S. Army aviators killed when their AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed Wednesday in Logar province, the Pentagon said today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii service member killed in Afghanistan chopper crash remembered as gentle, kind. The Department of Defense said Thursday that Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kirk T. Fuchigami Jr., of Keaau, and another soldier — identified as Chief Warrant Officer 2 David C. Knadle — were killed on Wednesday in Logar Province. Hawaii News Now.

Keaʻau Man Dies In Afghanistan In Support Of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Fuchigami died in Logar Province, Afghanistan, when their helicopter crashed while providing security for troops on the ground. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Island man killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan. Chief Warrant Officer Kirk Takeshi Fuchigami Jr. died in Logar Province while providing security for troops on the ground. KHON2.

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OHA appoints permanent CEO at ‘critical moment’ in its 40-year history. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ board Thursday voted unanimously to appoint educator and administrator Sylvia Hussey as its permanent CEO. Hawaii News Now.

Bill to implement red light cameras may return to Legislature. After a string of crashes, some deadly, some are revisiting the idea of bringing red light cameras island wide. KHON2.

Seed Industry Is Shrinking Dramatically But It Still Grows Hawaii’s No. 1 Crop. Despite controversy and declining production, executives say Hawaii will remain a key player in growing GMO seeds for years to come. Civil Beat.

USDA Announces $13M for Community Facilities in Hawai‘i. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on Thursday it will invest $13,450,000 through its Community Facilities Direct Loan Program to improve the quality of rural life in Hawai‘i and the Western Pacific. Big Island Now.

Sexually Transmitted Infections On The Rise In Hawaii. But programs for getting screened and tested for STIs on the neighbor islands are scarce and sometimes expensive. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Acting Prosecuting Attorney Dwight Nadamoto appears before grand jury for 3 hours. Honolulu Acting Prosecuting Attorney Dwight Nadamoto spent roughly three hours before a grand jury in U.S. District Court today and emerged with little to say to reporters. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu May Sue Convicted Police Chief To Claw Back Retirement Money. The city will likely take its former police chief to court. Civil Beat.

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Steve Alm, a former judge and U.S. attorney, announces bid for Honolulu prosecutor. Promising to restore integrity in a Honolulu prosecutor’s office that’s “in crisis,” former state judge and one-time U.S. Attorney Steve Alm announced he is running for the Honolulu prosecuting attorney’s post next year. Star-Advertiser.

Former Judge Steve Alm Announces Bid For Prosecuting Attorney. He has the support of the police union and the chair of the police commission. Civil Beat.

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Honolulu rail authority budgets $200K to help employees cope with federal subpoenas. Another batch of federal grand jury subpoenas was delivered to the offices of the Honolulu rail authority last month, and the rail board approved a budget Thursday that includes $200,000 for next year to hire legal counsel to assist rail employees who have been served. Star-Advertiser.

More HART Employees Hit With Federal Subpoenas. It’s the second round of orders sent to rail staff. The agency still won’t say how many employees have received subpoenas. Civil Beat.

Kapolei residents raise concerns over development as rail is poised to roll. Construction on the city’s rail project began in East Kapolei after ground was broken in 2011. Hawaii News Now.

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Faceoff set for controversial Kaneohe cemetery expansion plan. Fresh battle lines are now drawn in a more than decade- old effort by the largest funeral and cemetery service business operator in the nation to expand Hawaiian Memorial Park in Kaneohe on forested conservation land near a residential subdivision. Star-Advertiser.

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Mayor Kirk Caldwell signs bill extending Oahu lifeguard services from sunup to sundown. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed into law today a bill extending the hours of city lifeguards from sunup to sundown. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayor signs bill to extend beach lifeguard hours. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has signed a bill extending lifeguard service hours from dawn to sundown. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s largest prison doesn’t have an overcrowding issue — but that doesn’t mean it’s free of any others. Halawa Correctional Facility is the state’s largest prison. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Homeless camp razed. A long-standing homeless camp in downtown Hilo was torn down by county workers Thursday after existing for nearly a year. Tribune-Herald.

Unpermitted Hilo Structures Demolished. The County of Hawaiʻi, with a court order, removed unpermitted structures from a property in downtown Hilo on Thursday morning. Big Island Video News.

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Big Isle cancer patient sues Johnson & Johnson over asbestos-containing talcum power. A Hawaii Island woman with a rare form of cancer is suing Johnson & Johnson and Foodland Super Market Ltd. for selling talc-based baby powder she claims was contaminated with asbestos. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island woman sues Johnson & Johnson over mesothelioma diagnosis. An Ahualoa woman is suing the manufacturer of a popular brand of baby powder, claiming asbestos contamination of the talc-based powder caused her mesothelioma. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island woman claims that her rare form of cancer was caused by Johnson & Johnson product. Since February a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma took her out of the saddle. KITV.

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More delays for Hele-On contract. Hawaii County Council members continue to have confidence in Mass Transit Administrator Brenda Carreira, despite a fumble in the department that forced the cancellation of a long-overdue contract award. West Hawaii Today.

HOPE Services Hawaii Receives $2.75 Million Bezos Grant. The Bezos Day 1 Families Fund is granting $98.5 million to 32 nonprofits around the United States that are assisting families experiencing homelessness. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Monsanto Fined $10 Million For Using Banned Pesticide On Maui. The chemical company continued to use a pesticide banned in 2013 for about a year after the prohibition. Civil Beat.

Monsanto Pleads Guilty To Illegal Pesticide Use In Hawaii. Agrochemicals company Monsanto on Thursday pleaded guilty to spraying a banned pesticide on research crops on the Hawaii island of Maui in 2014, prosecutors said. Associated Press.

Monsanto admits to illegal use of pesticides on Maui. Monsanto Co. has agreed to plead guilty to using a banned pesticide on corn seed and research crops at its Valley Farm facility in Kihei, Maui, and will pay $10 million for illegally storing the chemical on Maui and Molokai. Star-Advertiser.

Monsanto to Plead Guilty to Illegally Spraying Banned Pesticide on Maui. Monsanto Company has agreed to plead guilty to illegally using a banned pesticide known as Penncap-M on research crops at one of its facilities on Maui, according to the Department of Justice. Maui Now.

Monsanto to plead guilty to criminal count of spraying banned pesticide. Monsanto has agreed to plead guilty to illegally using a banned pesticide on Maui research crops, the U.S. Justice Department said. Hawaii News Now.




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Mayor confronted over injection wells. Victorino still firm on stance that case should be decided by US Supreme Court. Maui News.


Makani Kai wins service to Hana. Airline to cover route without any subsidy. Maui News.

Kauai

Shoreline creeps closer. Kauai’s multi-use path, Ke Ala Hele Makalae, is being threatened by coastal erosion, triggering community concern and a little government action. Garden Island.

Jim Benkert sees potential with eco e-bikes Kauai. The Lihue man recently opened eco e-bikes Kauai on Rice Street. He rents and sells pedal-assisted, battery-powered two-wheelers for a relaxed and relatively easy way to cruise the island. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanaʻi Health Center Expands Telehealth Team. The Lanai Community Health Center named its newest pediatrician, Dr. Jeesun Nam. Maui Now.

Oahu, Maui top U.S. Thanksgiving destinations, Honolulu plastic ban advances, Kahuku wind farm protesters arrested, PUC nixes HELCO rate hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach scene ©2019 All Hawaii News

Oahu, Maui listed among top US Thanksgiving destinations according to AAA. Two Hawaiian Islands have been listed among some of the most coveted Thanksgiving destinations in America, according to a recent report by the American Automobile Association of Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Oahu, Maui Among Top Thanksgiving Destinations For US Travelers. For those travelers planning an international vacation for Thanksgiving, sandy beaches are their destinations of choice. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s Economic Growth Is The Lowest In The Nation. Record visitor numbers are hiding an alarming trend. Civil Beat.

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Officials urge public to stay away from ocean ordnance prior to removal in 2020. State and federal officials say remedial work of unexploded ordnance off of Oahu’s North Shore and in Molokini is scheduled for spring 2020, after humpback whales have migrated back north and ocean waters are calmer. Star-Advertiser.

Federal and state agencies are issuing warnings to the public advising of the planned removal of unexploded ordnance from Oahu and the Molokini islet off Maui. Maui Now.

More money for protection of coral. Hawaii coral reefs are one step closer to receiving nearly $10 million more in federal funding thanks to the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee approval of the Restoring Resilient Reefs Act. Garden Island.

Bill To Restore And Conserve Hawai‘i’s Coral Reefs Passes Key Committee. A bill that would help to restore Hawai‘i’s coral reefs, was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee.  The measure was introduced by US Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), who is a member of the committee. Maui Now.

Oahu

Foodware plastics ban bill advances. Oahu would have the state’s strictest law against single-use, oil-based plastic containers and utensils under a bill approved 3-2 by the Honolulu City Council Public Safety and Welfare Committee Thursday night. Star-Advertiser.

Opponents of the proposed plastic ban want the city council to start over. Those who are against the proposal say the city council is rushing the bill and would prefer that they start over to get things right. KHON2.

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At least 26 arrested as hundreds of wind farm protesters turn out in Kalaeloa. Dozens of arrests were made late Thursday into early Friday as hundreds of protesters of a wind farm project gathered in Kalaeloa to block a transport of heavy equipment. Hawaii News Now.

The first of the latest wind turbines goes up in Kahuku. KITV.

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Honolulu Taxpayers Are Footing The Bill For Defense Lawyers’ Rail Advice. But city officials won’t say how much they’re paying the San Francisco law firm. Civil Beat.

Department of Planning and Permitting schedules public meeting to provide community with update on draft plan. The Department of Planning and Permitting has scheduled a public meeting to provide the community with an update on the East Kapolei Neighborhood Transit-Oriented Development Draft Plan. KITV.

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Taxpayers Spent Nearly $700,000 on Kealohas’ Legal Fees. The court-appointed attorney for Katherine Kealoha received the largest chunk of the fees. Civil Beat.

The federal government has paid out nearly $700,000 in legal expenses for the Kealohas and one of their co-defendants. The fees and costs were detailed in a report from the federal court Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Kealoha fed cases run up $700,000 in taxpayer-funded attorney fees. Taxpayers have footed the bills for nearly $700,000 in attorney fees in the Kealohas’ federal corruption and fraud cases. KHON2.

O'ahu taxpayers spent nearly $700,000 to cover lawyer fees for Kealohas and HPD officer. O'ahu tax payers spent nearly $700,000 to cover lawyer fees for the Kealohas and an HPD officer convicted of corruption. KITV.

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Yep, Hanabusa Is Running For Mayor Of Honolulu. The former congresswoman all but declares her campaign in an email to supporters. Civil Beat.

Waianae community divided over relocation of state’s largest homeless camp. The relocation of the state’s largest homeless camp is facing new resistance from its would-be neighbors. Hawaii News Now.

First kauhale homeless tiny homes going up next month in Kalaeloa. The first 10 tiny homes aimed at housing homeless military veterans are scheduled to go up next month in Kalaeloa as part of a new, wider approach to quickly develop permanent housing communities for homeless adults who have been living the longest on Oahu’s streets. Star-Advertiser.

The Fate Of This Beautiful Honolulu Park Is Now In The Hands Of One Man. Damon estate heir J.P. Damon has ended up the sole owner of Moanalua Gardens, the historic park on sacred land in west Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Rapid ohia death spreads on Oahu. An aerial survey of some 20,000 acres of Oahu forest has yielded the island’s fourth detection of rapid ohia death, the fungal disease that has killed millions of ohia trees on Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Cardax’s quarterly loss widens to $1.4 million. Pharmaceutical company Cardax Inc. saw its loss widen in the third quarter as revenue plunged more than half from the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Regulators decline to approve increase in Hawaii Electric Light rates. The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has issued an interim decision that results in no increase in electric rates at this time for Hawaii Electric Light Company customers, the PUC announced today. West Hawaii Today.

No special tax class for vacation rentals. There will be no special property tax classification for short-term vacation rentals under recommendations proposed by a panel tasked with revamping the county property tax code, but some people currently getting tax breaks for agriculture could take a hit. West Hawaii Today.

40 attend inaugural cleanup aimed to integrate homeless back into community. The basis of HONOUR (Homeless Outreach Nurturing Our Community) is to integrate the homeless back into the community by having them work on projects under positive guidance. West Hawaii Today.

LEAD Homelessness Program Arrives in Kona. The pilot project, which received $650,000 in ʻOhana Zone funding from the State, launched Thursday in Kona. Big Island Now.

A former employee at the Big Island’s largest community health center says she was retaliated against for blowing the whistle on its former CEO and its board. She’s said she’s one of dozens of workers who are alleging a hostile work environment at the Bay Clinic. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Agency considers raising height limits in Wailuku. Meeting to be held Friday but decision not expected till next year. The Maui Redevelopment Agency, which has the power to alter zoning and development rules for downtown Wailuku, will continue to mull whether to hike height limits from four to six stories along certain streets during its Friday meeting, though decision-making likely won’t come until next year, an official said. Maui News.

Hawaii endangered bird program halted after 9 die of illness. The Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project will halt the program after the deaths of nine endangered birds, officials said. Associated Press.

Kauai

House Finance members to visit. Members of the state House Finance Committee, chaired by Rep. Sylvia Luke, will tour sites on Kauai to view firsthand several projects and programs supported by the Legislature. The visits will also allow committee members to learn about other concerns and needs facing Kauai. Garden Island.