Kealohas close to plea deal, drone plans for Maui, teachers' association seeks flavored vape ban, opposition mounts to Kahuku wind farm, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Katherine and Louis Kealoha

Kealohas close to reaching a plea deal for remaining federal charges. The Kealohas are reportedly close to making a plea deal with federal prosecutors on financial fraud and other charges. Hawaii News Now.

Federal prosecutors offer Katherine Kealoha plea deal. Federal prosecutors have offered to reduce their recommendation for the length of Katherine Kealoha’s imprisonment by a few years and will dismiss multiple charges against her if she agrees to plead guilty to two felony counts in a bank fraud prosecution and a misdemeanor charge in a separate drug-related case, according to one of her attorneys. Star-Advertiser.

New plea offer for Katherine Kealoha. Renewed negotiations for Katherine Kealoha and the federal government. One of her attorneys says both sides met Wednesday with a new offer on the table. KHON2.

=====

The Hawaii State Teachers Association wants lawmakers to ban all flavored tobacco products to help protect their students. The Department of Education banned electronic smoking devices back in 2015 but teachers report the problem continues to show up on campus. KITV.

State Sen. Kai Kahele criticizes Tulsi Gabbard for missing House vote on Syria. State Sen. Kai Kahele (D-Hilo) is criticizing Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard for failing to show up to vote today on a House resolution that condemns President Donald Trump’s withdrawal of American forces from northern Syria. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Democrats To Hold Presidential Primary April 4. The Democratic National Convention has approved how the local party will select delegates. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Kiewit’s Payments On Hold Pending Findings Of Rail Investigation. State finance officials rejected more than $30 million in payments to Kiewit Infrastructure West this past quarter because they believe the former rail contractor may be part of the federal criminal probe into the multibillion-dollar transit project. Civil Beat.

Wind turbine protesters gear up for a drawn-out battle in Kahuku. Opponents of the construction of eight wind turbines in Kahuku are preparing for a drawn-out fight against the project, which they say will have detrimental health effects for residents and farmers of the rural town. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Green Energy Projects Search For Ways To Navigate Community Opposition. A number of new solar and wind projects are needed in Oahu to replace the last coal-fired plant, which is scheduled to close in 2022. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Acquire More Military-Style Equipment. The local ACLU criticizes the purchase of equipment like the $580,000 Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle as encouraging local police to adopt a “warrior mentality.” Civil Beat.

Council aims to silence excessively loud mopeds. Councilman Tommy Waters, who introduced the measure, says mufflers are required on motor vehicles but under the current law it excludes mopeds. KHON2.

Affordable housing options expanding in Kakaako. Affordable housing is expanding a foothold in one section of Kakaako with construction about to begin on a 42-story tower offering mainly midpriced condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

This playground is within permitting guidelines. But still, safety concerns linger. Realtors often highlight the kids-friendly playground at the upscale Waikalua Bayside project along Kaneohe Bay. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Council passes climate resolution despite doom and gloom from Chung. The Big Island is officially facing a climate crisis, according to a resolution unanimously passed Wednesday by the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Three dozen protest bombing at Pohakuloa Training Area. About three dozen activists gathered at the main gate of the Pohakuloa Training Area on Wednesday to protest continued bombing and shelling on the sprawling U.S. Army base, which regularly hosts life-fire training exercises for Hawaii-based soldiers and Marines. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Mayor Kim reassures protesters that TMT equipment won’t be snuck up the mountain. After fears that law enforcement could come in soon to clear the protest camp at Mauna Kea, Mayor Harry Kim and protest leaders say there’s assurances Thirty Meter Telescope equipment will not be sneaked in. Hawaii News Now.

UH regents unveil Maunakea resolution. A new resolution proposed by members of the University of Hawaii Board of Regents would establish deadlines for the decommissioning of several Maunakea telescopes and set groundwork for future educational programs on the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

UH Regents Maunakea Governance Report Calls For 12 Specific Action Items. The findings and recommendations of the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents' Maunakea Governance Permitted Interaction Group have been published. Big Island Video News.

=====

Change paves way for more indoor amusement facilities. Indoor amusement facilities such as fitness and martial arts centers, pool halls and game rooms will be allowed in commercial and industrial zones under changes the County Council approved Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Drone officials plan to submit new application. Project officials plan to resubmit an application for the Hawk30 program, which is seeking to use agricultural lands on Lanai to develop and test two high-altitude platform drones. Project is also expected to undergo environmental review. Maui News.

UH: Forest Conservation Could Save $1.4M to Maui Water. Preventing the degradation of the native forest and facilitation of conservation efforts could save the local water utility up to $1.4 million and make important contributions to local water supplies in East Maui according to research conducted by the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. Maui Now.

County files complaint over Haiku zip line. Company accused of breach of the settlement pact. Maui News.

Kauai

Full closures on Kuhio Highway near Hanalei. Emergency full closures on Kuhio Highway at mile marker 1 (the hill approaching Hanalei Bridge) will be hourly for about 30 minutes between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the top of each hour today and Friday. Garden Island.

Hourly full closures for emergency slope work on Kuhio Highway at Hanalei Hill. KHON2.

Grave site search going high-tech. Radar technology will be used this Sunday at the Hanapepe Filipino Cemetery to help a team of Kauai researchers determine where the unmarked mass grave of 16 Filipino sugar cane workers lies. Garden Island.

Kauai is coming up on peak fledging season for the endangered Newell’s shearwater and other seabirds, and that means it’s peak fallout season, too. Garden Island.

Hawaii Dems opt for ranked-choice mail-in ballots for presidential primary, convicted ex-police chief Kealoha files for divorce, Hawaii County Council advances pesticide ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tulsi Gabbard ©2019 All Hawaii News

Tulsi Gabbard’s take on Syria gets slammed as ‘dead wrong’ during Democratic debate. Tulsi Gabbard came under attack for her stances on Syria during Tuesday’s presidential debate, marring what needed to be a strong performance for the Hawaii congresswoman, who has struggled to gain traction in her bid for the presidency. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard: ‘Blood Of The Kurds’ On Trump’s Hands. The Hawaii congresswoman continued to push for ending U.S. involvement in “regime-change war” during Tuesday’s Democratic presidential debate. Civil Beat.

Gabbard Restrained In Debate But Questions Warren About Syria. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard did not have significant air time in Tuesday's crowded debate of 12 Democratic presidential candidates but she was most emphatic when arguing in support of the U.S. pullout from Syria. Hawaii Public Radio.

Federal Campaign Filings Show Gabbard Has Raised Another $3 Million. State Sen. Kai Kahele continues to rake in cash in his bid to oust the CD2 congresswoman. Civil Beat.

DNC approves delegate plan. The party-run presidential primary scheduled for April 4 will include vote-by-mail and ranked choice voting. Garden Island.

=====

Protests concern Hawaii business leaders. Hawaii often gets rapped as being unfriendly to business over regulations, taxes and litigation. Now a new layer to this perception may be forming as activists inhibit construction of three development projects. Star-Advertiser.

UH Pay Increases For Top Executives Drawing Scrutiny. The double-digit percentage pay increases are permissible under a UH policy giving discretion to the university president to elevate pay. Civil Beat.

Vaping Summit, Legislative Briefing Set As Lung Illness Count Continues To Rise Nationwide. An anti-vaping summit is planned this week in Honolulu and state lawmakers scheduled a briefing Thursday on the rising youth use of e-cigarettes. Hawaii Public Radio.

More Hawaiian homeland residents struggling with loan payments, face eviction. DHHL beneficiaries asked Lt. Gov. Josh Green and state legislators for the same loan mitigation programs offered to other citizens. They say current state law prohibits that. KITV.

Why Hawaii Still Has So Few Electric Cars. Only about 1% of cars here are electric vehicles. Advocates say boosting that number requires mandating builders install charging stations at new developments. Civil Beat.

$88 Billion: A New Price Tag For Fixing Hawaii’s Infrastructure And Retirement Systems. A new report from the Hawaii Executive Conference details the state’s worsening financial problems, but it doesn’t offer any solutions. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha files for divorce from wife Katherine. Louis Kealoha, the retired police chief and convicted felon, filed for divorce Monday from his wife, former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, also a convicted felon. Star-Advertiser.

Louis Kealoha Files For Divorce From Katherine Kealoha. The marriage is irretrievably broken, Louis Kealoha indicated in his court complaint. Civil Beat.

As both await sentencing, ex-police chief files for divorce from his wife. Former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha has filed for a divorce from his wife Katherine, a former deputy prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

Retired Police Chief Louis Kealoha files for divorce. Retired Police Chief Louis Kealoha has filed for divorce against his wife, Katherine, a former deputy prosecutor. KHON2.

=====

Gov. David Ige backs wind farm’s construction in Kahuku. The company planning to build a wind farm in Kahuku “should be allowed to proceed,” Gov. David Ige’s office said Tuesday as protesters continued to rally at the construction site. Star-Advertiser.

=====

State health officials fine bubble tea shop in Moiliili for removing yellow placard. The state Health Department has fined a bubble tea shop at Puck’s Alley in Moiliili $2,000 for unlawfully and intentionally removing a yellow placard, which stands for a conditional pass, from their facility. Star-Advertiser.

Popular bubble tea shop slapped with fine for removing yellow health placard. The Department of Health has fined a popular Oahu bubble tea shop after removing a conditional yellow health placard from their window. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Home and condo sales rise on Oahu. Home and condo sales are picking up with several regions seeing double-digit gains. KHON2.

Sea Life Park announces death of Kina the false killer whale. Sea Life Park Hawaii announced today the death of Kina, the false killer whale that had been a beloved part of its family since 2015. Star-Advertiser.

Kina, the beloved false killer whale at Sea Life Park, dies. A mainstay at Sea Life Park on Oahu has died. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Herbicide ban advanced: Bill prohibits county use of weed killers in parks, roadsides. Hawaii Island is moving toward banning county-applied herbicides on parks and roadsides. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiʻi County Council Committee of Agricultural, Water, Energy and Environmental Management voted to advance Bill 101 to the full council with a positive recommendation. Big Island Video News.

Pesticide Ban Advances to Council. The Hawai‘i County Council Committee on Agriculture, Water, Energy and Environmental Management voted 7-0 today to advance Bill 101, a pesticide ban in Hawai‘i County, with a positive recommendation to the Council late Tuesday night. Big Island Now.

=====

Committee gets update on lava recovery efforts. Hawaii County Council members appeared pleased with the current state of the Kilauea eruption recovery efforts after an update provided Tuesday to the Committee on Governmental Relations and Economic Development. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea Eruption Recovery Progress Report Delivered. It has been one year since the eruption of Kīlauea ended, but the recovery effort in Puna continues. Big Island Video News.

University of Hawaii regents panel pitches plan to improve Mauna Kea. Following a two-month examination of the issues related to Mauna Kea, a University of Hawaii Board of Regents committee did not recommend any change in its support for the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Men’s shelter in old Hilo hospital accepts its first residents. The old Hilo Memorial Hospital has a new purpose: helping homeless men. Tribune-Herald.

Old Hilo Hospital Site Now An Ohana Zone. The goal is to improve access to needed services for those experiencing homelessness. Civil Beat.

Keolahou Shelter To Address Homelessness In Hilo. The shelter is on the site of the old Hilo Memorial Hospital near Rainbow Falls, and is made possible by state ʻOhana Zone funds. Big Island Video News.

Maui

State restricts access to cliff in West Maui. Concerns over rock climbing impacts have led the state to close a cliff face in the Lihau section of the West Maui Natural Area Reserve. Maui News.

Maui Marketplace seeing some new tenants, changes. Jollibee, a fast food chain from the Philippines, is coming to the center. Maui News.

Jollibee “Home of the Famous Chickenjoy” Coming to Maui Marketplace. Jollibee, a popular fast-food chain in the Philippines, will be opening a restaurant at the Maui Marketplace in Kahului. Maui Now.

Island home prices dip in September as purchases spike. 83 properties have sales pending, up 26 percent from September 2018. Maui News.

Kauai

Water rights contested. A case that began before the county planning commission and made its way to the highest court in the state continued Tuesday in Kauai’s circuit court, where a judge appeared on the verge of siding with a Koloa couple embroiled in the 13-year legal battle. Garden Island.

Southwest on the way. Southwest will launch service between Honolulu and Kauai, Maui and Sacramento on Nov. 10. Garden Island.

Big boost for Hawaii cattle industry, Honolulu council mandates union labor, Hawaiian Airlines employees mull strike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cattle in Hawaii ©2019 All Hawaii News

Idaho CEO gives ranchers $1.5 million in “game-changing” move for Hawaii’s cattle industry. An Idaho CEO not only bought the entire O'ahu operation, but paid $1.5 million to the ranchers and several others who were owed money. KITV.

IRS Extends Relief for HI Farmers, Ranchers. The Internal Revenue Service has extended tax relief for Hawai‘i farmers and ranchers who were forced to sell livestock due to drought, flooding or other severe weather in recent years. Big Island Now.

=====


Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket in advance of a strike vote. Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants held a major labor demonstration Wednesday at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in advance of the first strike vote that the company’s flight attendants have taken in the carrier’s 90-year history. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket ahead of strike vote. Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picketed at Honolulu’s airport Wednesday as they prepare for a strike vote next month. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Number of electric vehicles in state tops 10,000. The latest energy trend report shows Hawaii surpassed a milestone by logging its 10,000th registered electric vehicle some time last month — bringing the state a step closer to its goal of 100% renewables by 2045. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii now has over 10K electric vehicles on the road. According to a new report released by the State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, Hawai'i now has more than 10,000 electric vehicles on the road. KITV.

=====

Safety is top goal of makeover at state hospital. Nurse manager Robert Burns navigates his way through the pale hallways of the Hawaii State Hospital in Kaneohe with a partially blinded left eye from being injured twice in the same area during assaults while working with psychiatric patients. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Gabbard Plays Up Military Service But Says Little About It. The Hawaii congresswoman says her experience helps qualifies her for the White House, but she has dodged repeated requests for details. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Council Approves Labor-Related Agreement Measure. Honolulu councilmembers passed a measure Wednesday that opponents say favors labor unions and that supporters argue will guarantee jobs for local workers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Council OKs bill mandating union labor for city projects valued at least $2M. A bill requiring the city to hire unionized workers for major construction jobs valued at least $2 million won a 7-2 approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday despite lingering concerns from contractor groups. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Bus ridership plummets, putting rail forecast in limbo. Honolulu’s rail system begins partial operation next year, with most of its riders expected to get to stations by bus. But a longtime decline in bus ridership had its worst drop ever this year. KHON2.

=====

Kealohas waive right to jury trial and continue negotiations. A federal judge on Wednesday granted Louis and Katherine Kea­loha’s request to waive their right to a jury trial on bank fraud charges as settlement negotiations continue in the corruption case. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Will Decide Kealohas’ Fate In Bank Fraud Trial. A federal judge approved the law enforcement couple’s waiver of a jury trial. Civil Beat.

Judge agrees to waive jury for the Kealohas’ bank fraud trial. A judge agreed to hold the bank fraud trial for the Kealohas without a jury. KHON2.

Federal judge, not a jury will decide whether or not Kealohas are guilty of financial crimes. Louis and Katherine Kealoha are accused of stealing from the trust funds of children Katherine had guardianship over. Katherine also faces identity theft and obstruction charges. KITV.

=====

Burial council finds ‘no cause for alarm’ on controversial Sherwoods project.  After a presentation by city project managers and contracted archaeologists on the controversial Sherwoods park development, the Oahu Island Burial Council advocated for updated testing and study of the area, but took no formal position on the project despite public pressure to take a stand against it. Hawaii News Now.

Burial Council accepts finding of no ancestral remains at Sherwood. The Oahu Island Burial Council said Wednesday it has found no reason to suspect any human burials exist at the site of a controversial construction project in Waimanalo. Star-Advertiser.

Crews repair 2 vandalized gravestones at Hawaiian Mission Houses’ cemetery. Two headstones that were damaged at Hawaiian Mission Houses’ cemetery in June were re-installed Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

=====

How The Ala Wai Flood Project Illustrates The Challenge Of Adapting To Climate Change. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants to protect the lower Ala Wai Watershed, which includes Waikiki, McCully-Mo’ili’ili and parts of Ala Moana, by constructing a series of basins to catch rainwater during a storm event and release it slowly over time. Hawaii Public Radio.

With calls for mental health emergencies on the rise, HPD launches intervention team. It’s made up of 58 officers ― all with specific training on how to defuse volatile situations that can turn deadly. Hawaii News Now.

Turtle species rarely seen in Hawaii makes an appearance on Kailua beach. A NOAA scientist recognized them as olive ridley turtles, typically found in Central America. Hawaii News Now.

Who Climbs Koko Crater? An Avid Hiker Wants To Find Out. A University of Hawaii public policy professor conducted a private study that he hopes will help city officials better manage one of Oahu’s most popular — and overrun — hiking trails. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ethics Board quizzes Roth. Armed with a letter from county Corporation Counsel Joe Kamelamela, an oral assurance from the state attorney general and his own understanding of the law based on readings provided by the state Office of Disciplinary Counsel, county Prosecuting Attorney Mitch Roth told the Board of Ethics on Wednesday he’s confident there would be no conflict of interest if he prosecuted protesters arrested on Maunakea. West Hawaii Today.

Prosecutor Goes Before Ethics Board On Alleged Mauna Kea Conflict. Mitch Roth is asking if his family being employed by institutions connected to the Thirty Meter Telescope project is a conflict of interest, as TMT opponents face prosecution. Big Island Video News.

Thirty Meter Telescope law enforcement costs top $9 million. The state and counties have spent at least $9 million on law enforcement costs related to the Thirty Meter Telescope standoff on Mauna Kea, according to numbers released by the Hawaii Attorney General’s office today. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Puna Geothermal Venture to drill new well as it prepares to resume operations. Eighteen months after lava flows sidelined Puna Geothermal’s power plant, the company is taking steps to restart operations. Hawaii News Now.


Ironman World Championship prompts West Hawaii road closures. Road closures for the 41st installment of the triathlon will start going into effect Thursday morning in the Kailua Village area. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New Kahului, Wailuku hotels in the works. Two separate, midpriced hotels may be coming to Central Maui in the near future, according to a recent Hawaii real estate agency study. Maui News.

Windward Hotel Near Kahului Airport Proposed for Completion in 2023. A Draft Environmental Impact Statement has been filed for the proposed 200-room Windward Hotel in Central Maui. Maui Now.

200-room Kahului hotel could open in about 3 years. Draft EIS responds to public concerns. Maui News.

BLNR to look into restricting access to West Maui reserve. State says rock climbers are impacting native plants. Maui News.

Kauai

Change in Black Pot traffic flow. The Department of Parks and Recreation said Wednesday that the traffic pattern for the Black Pot Beach Park parking lot will be modified starting Oct. 15. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi Utility Seeking Comment on Draft Environmental Assessment Covering Stream Diversion. Kauaʻi's power utility is seeking public comment on its draft environmental assessment covering diverting stream water to run the Waiahi hydropower plants. Hawaii Public Radio.

Attorney general subpoenas Hawaiian Airlines seeking TMT opponents, Maui launches aerial attack on ants, police body cameras coming to Big Island, senior housing for Honolulu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea rally in Waikiki Facebook photo PC: Valen Ahlo

Where Hawaii Legislators Stand On The Thirty Meter Telescope. A majority of lawmakers surveyed by Civil Beat support construction of the telescope — but with a lot of caveats and uncertainty about how to proceed. Civil Beat.

Hawaii attorney general subpoenas Hawaiian Airlines for names of people who donated their miles to TMT protest. State Attorney General Clare Connors issued a subpoena to Hawaiian Airlines last month seeking the names of people who donated their frequent-flyer miles to activists who wanted to travel to the Big Island to join the protests on Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

Ethics Board to weigh in on TMT conflict question. When your son works for NASA, and your wife works for Subaru Telescope, does that mean you have a conflict of interest if your office prosecutes criminal cases arising from protests over constructing the Thirty Meter Telescope on Maunakea? West Hawaii Today.

Thousands take part in Aloha Unity march through Waikiki. The event is aimed at expressing opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope project, but also show unity for Aloha Aina movements. Hawaii News Now.

Over 20,000 people at Saturday's Aloha Aina Rally. KITV.

=====

Hawaii’s congressional delegation lacks consistency in holding town halls. Hundreds of informal town hall meetings with members of Congress play out across small towns and cities every year. They’re a chance for constituents to talk face to face with their representatives and, usually, ask unfiltered questions. Members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation sometimes dodge them, however, according to a Honolulu Star-Advertiser analysis of the delegation’s three-year track records. Star-Advertiser.

State officials aim to change water quality testings. Under federal law, the state is required to notify the public whenever bacteria levels exceed a specific threshold level. KHON2.

Bishop Museum wins grants to digitize research on species. The National Science Foundation has awarded two grants to the Bishop Museum — one for $1.3 million and another for $245,000 — to digitize its separate mollusk and insect collections, which could help identify living species of animals believed to be extinct. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu officials unveil plans for affordable senior housing at former Aiea sugar mill site. The city is on the verge of signing a development agreement with a nonprofit organization that is designed to transform the former Aiea sugar mill site into an affordable rental housing complex for seniors. Star-Advertiser.

City provides update on senior housing development at site of former Aiea sugar mill. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu’s Property Crime Problem: ‘Tourists Make Great Victims’. Violent crime is down but property crime is climbing, new FBI data shows. Civil Beat.

Kealohas: No Jury For Bank Fraud Trial. A hearing is set for next week to decide if just a judge will hear the case involving complicated financial issues. Civil Beat.

Kealohas want a judge, not a jury, to decide their fate in second criminal trial. Hawaii News Now.

Sunday ban on commercial activities in Maunalua Bay ignored by some tour operators, critics say. Although state law bars commercial activities on Maunalua Bay on Sundays, environmental watchdogs and some Hawaii Kai residents said some tour operators are thumbing their noses at the law. Hawaii News Now.

Group presents new vision for use of Pali Lanes. Imagine if the grounds and building of the Pali Lanes bowling alley in Kailua were completely renovated with a newly repainted, modern-style facade and grass area featuring a stage for hula performances. Star-Advertiser.

Kapilina Beach Homes finds no errors in billing amid complaints about surging utility costs. After residents in a gated Ewa Beach Community complained of unusually high electric bills the management company that runs Kapilina Beach Homes said it found no errors after reviewing billing statements. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Several dead hammerhead sharks found during illegal net lay seizure. Officers from the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement recovered an estimated 1,000 feet of unattended lay net within Kaneohe Bay on Sunday, Oct. 6. KHON2.

1000 feet of illegal lay net seized in Kaneohe Bay. KITV.

DLNR seeks owner of illegal lay net in Kaneohe Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Illegal lay net with trapped sharks in it seized from Kaneohe Bay. Hawaii News Now.

Hanauma Bay set to reopen Monday. The project to repair and repave the main roadway into Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is complete and is set to open Monday, October 7 at 6 a.m. KITV.

Oahu home sales increase, sales of condominiums drop. More single-family homes on Oahu sold at a lower median price last month compared with September 2018, while fewer condominiums sold at a higher price, according to data of home resales collected by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Police ready to roll out body cameras. Police Chief Paul Ferreira hopes to have Hawaii Police Department officers outfitted with body-worn cameras early next year. West Hawaii Today.

Nearly 1 in 10 Big Island emergency warning sirens inoperable. When a tsunami is heading toward Hawaii Island shores, sirens blare a warning sound alerting residents and visitors to get to higher ground. But what if the siren never sounds? West Hawaii Today.

Bill Proposes To End Herbicide Use By Hawaii County. Kona councilwoman Rebecca Villegas has introduced Bill 101 to prohibit herbicide use in Hawaiʻi County parks, roads, bikeways, sidewalks, trails, drainage ways, and waterways. Big Island Video News.

Discovery begins, another plaintiff files in ‘lava bomb’ federal suit. Attorneys involved in a federal lawsuit regarding a “lava bomb” that tore through a lava tour boat and injured numerous passengers near Kapoho on July 16, 2018, started exchanging documents and witness lists Friday, according to a lawyer for several plaintiffs. Tribune-Herald.

DLNR: Game management plan still in the works. A spokesman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife said in an email the agency is working to “update a game management plan” for Maunakea prepared and presented to them by a volunteer group of Big Island hunters in 2012. Tribune-Herald.

Report shows mixed results for Big Island school performance. While some Hawaii Island schools are making strides and improving in proficiency, others continue to struggle, according to 2018-19 Strive HI Performance System results released last week by the state Department of Education. Tribune-Herald.

2019 Ironman Championship Forecasts $30 Million In Economic Impact. More than 20,000 athletes, family, friends, volunteers and staff are gathering in Kona for the annual event. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Hawaii Scientists Launch Aerial Attack Against Invasive Ants. Hawaii scientists have used helicopters to launch an aerial attack against an invasive ant species in east Maui. Associated Press.

Pukalani has seven workforce housing units available. The deadline for applications for seven workforce housing units in the development in Pukalani is Oct. 19.  Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County’s Drivers License Division is looking to make the acquirement process more efficient. Kauai County’s Drivers License Division is piloting a take-a-number system starting Monday, Oct. 7, to make acquiring licenses and permits for drivers of motor vehicles and customers seeking State of Hawaii Identification Cards more efficient and comfortable. KHON2.

Kauai Drivers License Division piloting program to ease lines. KITV.

Hotel peeping Tom gets year in jail. A former janitor at the Kauai Marriott Resort &Beach Club will spend the next year in jail for secretly recording cell phone videos of his female coworkers using an employee bathroom. Garden Island.

Neighborhood centers closed for renovations. The county Department of Parks and Recreation announced that the Kalaheo and Kapaa neighborhood centers will be closed due to construction through March 31. Garden Island.

OHA records subpoenaed over TMT Thirty Meter Telescope, tourism expected to drop with vacation rental crackdown, new HART board chairman selected, Kealoha sentencing delayed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Protest sign at Mauna Kea ©2019 All Hawaii News

Subpoena issued to learn how OHA is helping protesters. The state Attorney General’s Office has slapped a subpoena on the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs demanding detailed infor­mation about support that OHA has provided to the Thirty Meter Telescope opponents who are blocking Mauna Kea Access Road, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser has learned. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kim Previews Path Forward On Mauna Kea. The Hawaii County Mayor testified before the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees during a meeting held Thursday morning. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Mayor Kim says his plan includes building TMT, but that is a nonstarter for protesters. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim confirmed Thursday that his long-awaited blueprint for the future of Mauna Kea will include a plan to build the Thirty Meter Telescope near the summit, but the TMT opponents said that is still unacceptable to them. Star-Advertiser.

OHA trustees meet with protesters, offer support. Three trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs met with protesters at Maunakea Access Road Thursday in support of their opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

Kaleikoa Kaʻeo, one of the leaders in the movement opposing the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea, gave passionate testimony at Thursday's Office of Hawaiian Affairs meeting. Big Island Video News.

TMT enforcement effort nets 547 citations, 11 arrests. Officers assigned to the Thirty Meter Telescope protester blockade and encampment on Maunakea Access Road issued 547 traffic citations and arrested 11 suspects in the week between Sept. 12-18, police said Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

=====

Hawaii economy approaching standstill, report finds. Brace yourselves, Hawaii residents. The state economy is expected to slow to a near “standstill” for the next three years, according to a new University of Hawaii analysis. Star-Advertiser.

Pay Increase Approved For Hawaii School Officials. The salary adjustments impact three leadership tiers below the top-level superintendent and will help with recruitment challenges, according to the DOE. Civil Beat.

Kaiser Permanente study reveals healthy Hawaiians still at higher risk of developing diabetes. Kaiser's study found even at a normal weight, Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have a rate of diabetes three times higher than Caucasians. KITV.

Why The Growing Demand For AC Threatens Hawaii’s Renewable Energy Goals. Far more residents now have air conditioning to deal with a warming climate.Civil Beat.


Oahu

Federal Judge Postpones Sentencing Of The Kealohas For Two Weeks. The couple will now be sentenced on Oct. 31. Civil Beat.

Kealoha Conspiracy Sentencing Re-Scheduled For Halloween. Associated Press.

Sentencing for Kealohas delayed until Halloween. District Chief Judge J. Michael Seabright agreed Thursday to delay the sentencing of Katherine and Louis Kealoha for their conspiracy and obstruction convictions while settlement talks continue related to the couple’s upcoming trial on bank fraud charges and a later drug-related trial involving Katherine Kealoha and her brother. Star-Advertiser.

=====

HPD: No one will be disciplined after emergency sirens were mistakenly set off. Honolulu’s police chief says no one will disciplined after an employee participating in a training exercise at the main station Wednesday accidentally set off emergency sirens on Oahu, sending people scrambling for information on what was going on. Hawaii News Now.

Faster corrections and training changes called for after latest false emergency scare. Figure out how to tell the public immediately that there is no danger after false alarms. That’s what the mayor and lawmakers want from anyone able to trigger emergency sirens and alerts. KHON2.

Economists: Airbnb Crackdown Will Likely Cause Big Drop In Oahu Tourism. The expected decline could cost the island more than $30 million per month in direct spending, based on state tourism data. Civil Beat.

Caldwell: Delay Of Dillingham Rail Plan Reaching ‘Crisis’ Level. Rail officials admit progress on a utility relocation plan has been too slow. Civil Beat.

Caldwell voices frustration over rail’s utility relocation. Honolulu rail officials are now wrestling with what they’ve said all along is the most difficult part of the $9.2 billion, East Kapolei-to-Ala Moana mass transit project: the relocation of a multitude of utility lines along the congested and key commuting corridor known as Dillingham before actual rail construction begins. Star-Advertiser.

HART Gets Its First New Board Chair In About Three Years. Toby Martyn joined HART as a state appointee. Now, he’s the agency’s board chairman. Civil Beat.

Manahan’s Chief Of Staff Running For City Council Seat. Radiant Cordero wants to represent the greater Kalihi area at Honolulu Hale. Civil Beat.

City Unsure of Trees Already Planted To Reach Its 100,000 Goal. Despite having an ambitious goal to plant 100,000 trees by 2025, the city has been unable to keep count of exactly how many have already been planted. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Committee signs off on Mass Transit multi-year contract request. Finance Committee members on Tuesday gave favorable recommendation to Mass Transit Administrator Brenda Carreira’s request to fast-track approval for a multi-year contract for Hele-On bus service with no financial information attached. West Hawaii Today.

Council mulls electric buses. Members of the Hawaii County Council met with a representative of an electric bus manufacturer Tuesday to discuss the possibility of converting the county’s bus fleet to electric vehicles. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor: Injection well settlement could cost county $800 million. Supporters of ending suit call this ‘Chicken-Little’ predictions. Maui News.

An ethics complaint has been filed against Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin, alleging that she should not be voting on the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility injection wells case – because she was once on the board of one of the plaintiff organizations which originally filed the lawsuit. Maui Now.

Maui siren was not supposed to be triggered by Honolulu Police. KHON2.

DOE seeks input on teacher compensation Wednesday. Two meetings to discuss changes to the teacher compensation system, staged by the state Department of Education, will be held on Maui from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Baldwin Auditorium. Maui News.

Kauai

Judge rules for Water Department. Kia‘i Wai O Wai‘ale‘ale is well on its way to losing its lawsuit against the county Department of Water, but a lawyer representing the water-rights organization said the legal battle over a proposed 18-inch water main in the Wailua watershed has broader implications, and believes the case will ultimately be settled in the Hawaii Supreme Court. Garden Island.

HTA rolls out campaign to educate visitors. Sharing the dos and don’ts with visitors for their time in the Hawaiian Islands is the goal of a campaign launched through a partnership between the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. Garden Island.

New endangered species rules worry Hawaii leaders, police dropped the ball on Mauna Kea arrests, Hawaiian Airlines adds Maui-Vegas route, Kona airport gets $40M boost, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Endangered nene goose in Hawaii ©2019 All Hawaii News

Isle leaders blast new rules on endangered species. Hawaii flora and fauna, already under stress from climate change, will have fewer protections under new Trump administration rules that weaken the Endangered Species Act. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Is Home To More Than 400 Endangered Species. Now the Trump administration is weakening the federal law that protects them. Civil Beat.

Trump admin moves to weaken endangered species protections. The rule would also create an exemption to critical habitats that exist because of the results of the climate crisis such as sea level rise. KITV.

Schatz 'sick' over Trump administration plans to weaken Endangered Species act. Local politicians made sure their voice was heard after the news broke. KITV.

=====

Hawaii Democrats Elect New Party Chair. Kate Stanley will hold the interim position until May 2020. Civil Beat.

Kahele Promoted, Gabbard Leaves For Active Duty. State Sen. Kai Kahele is now a Lieutenant Colonel, while U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is off the campaign trail for two weeks of active duty training. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Legislature’s Top-Paid Officials Never Run For Office. The latest installment of Civil Beat’s public salary database includes employees of the Senate, House and Legislative Reference Bureau. Civil Beat.

New Technology to Reduce Land Court Records Clog. The Bureau of Conveyances has just awarded a $1.3 million contract to West Central Indexing to implement a highly specialized Land Records Management System to increase accuracy and improve efficiencies in recording these documents. Big Island Now.

=====

Officers: Police plans to arrest TMT protesters, clear road abruptly fell through. Honolulu Police Sgt. James “Kimo” Smith’s version of events sheds light on one of the most emotional days of the conflict, and raises new questions about the government response in the wake of the arrests. Hawaii News Now.

Mauna Kea telescopes coming back to life. Though not exactly fully functional yet, the telescopes atop Mauna Kea are starting to conduct science for the first time in nearly four weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Telescopes Employ Hundreds, Critics Say Astronomy Not Big Island Jobs Solution. Hawaii Public Radio.

Telescope confirms asteroid not a threat. Maunakea observatories returned to work last weekend and almost immediately discovered that the world will not end next year. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Extra Board Members Were Meant To Add Scrutiny On HART — But They Rarely Show Up. Only one Legislature-appointed member has attended a board meeting since February, making it hard for the Honolulu rail project to get routine business done. Civil Beat.

Rate Commission seeks testimony on bus and rail fares. The Honolulu Rate Commission will take public testimony on the future of mass transit fares at a meeting from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Mission Memorial Hearing Room. Star-Advertiser.

=====

How much time will the Kealohas spend in prison? The answer is not easy to figure out. Former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha has already spent 45 days behind bars. Time that will be credited once she is sentenced for obstruction and conspiracy on Oct. 7. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu officer who pleaded guilty in Kealoha corruption case fights to keep job. Honolulu Police Officer Danny Sellers. pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor in the Kealoha’s public corruption case. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Honolulu Officials Say Bulky Trash Program Is Starting To Work. Honolulu officials say the city's bulky item pilot program is beginning to work despite ongoing complaints. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bulky item pickup program improving, Caldwell announces. Two months in, public participation in the city’s revised bulky item trash pickup system is growing, and the pilot project is on its way to being a success — despite some glitches along the way, Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

To crack down on illegal dumpers, city wants your help.  The city’s controversial bulky item pickup pilot is in its third month, and officials say they’re now planning to ramp up efforts to catch illegal dumpers. Hawaii News Now.

Bulky item pilot pickup program seeing increase in appointments. KHON2.

Mayor’s office, Waimanalo Park renovation opponents disagree on park findings. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is planning to cut back on master plans for a renovation of Waimanalo Bay Beach Park. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Ige releases $40.4M for airport improvements. Gov. David Ige has released $40.4 million for improvements to the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, state Sen. Lorraine Inouye announced Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Holiday Inn to get signs. More than five years later, the Holiday Inn in Kailua-Kona is about to get its signs. West Hawaii Today.

Influx of permit applications alters Kona office hours. As part of an ongoing effort to address a backlog in the processing of applications and permits at the Planning Department’s West Hawaii office in Kailua-Kona, the department said Monday it will begin to limit service hours with the public on a temporary basis. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaiian Airlines to Launch New Maui to Las Vegas Flights in December. The airline will inaugurate its newest narrow-body Airbus A321neo aircraft on the route. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Air adds Maui to Las Vegas in new route. Hawaiian Airlines announced Monday that it’s launching direct service between Maui and Las Vegas in December on its Airbus 321neo, whose midrange capabilities have allowed the carrier to beef up service to smaller, secondary markets throughout the western United States. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable rental community in Kihei taking applications. Kaiwahine Village holds 120 units, amenities. Maui News.

Public Invited to Last Open House for Baldwin Beach Park Masterplan. The public is invited to view the final concept for the Baldwin Beach Park master plan on Aug. 22 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Paiia Community Center. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tax exemption amendment goes to council. Bill No. 2756, if approved, would allow family members to apply for real property tax exemptions based upon their own eligibility, as long as there is no living person on title. Garden Island.

Coral bleaching could be on the way. Another coral bleaching event could hit Hawaii in the next four months, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Coral Reef Watch. Garden Island.

All-mail voting to start next year, Hawaii's Gabbard on national stage, Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket, 220 mayors coming to Waikiki conference, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Voting at the polls ©2019 All Hawaii News

Ige Signs All-Mail Voting, Automatic Recount Bills. The two voting reform measures were a top priority for the Legislature this year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Opts for Voting by Mail. Hawaii becomes the fourth state to move to all-mail balloting in an effort to improve turnout. U.S. News & World Report.

=====

Law adds third gender option for Hawaii driver’s licenses. Hawaii residents will be able to choose a nonbinary gender designation — neither exclusively male nor exclusively female — for their driver’s license starting July 2020. Star-Advertiser.

New state law allows third gender designation on driver’s licenses, IDs. Gov. David Ige on Wednesday signed House Bill 1165, legislation that expands the gender options beyond “male” or “female” on the state-issued IDs. Tribune-Herald.

New Law Will Cover All Teachers’ License Fees. Act 116 provides $1.3 million in annual funding to the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, the licensing entity for Hawaii educators. Civil Beat.

Measure requires restaurants to offer healthy drink options as default choice for keiki meals. Among three health-related bills Gov. David Ige signed Tuesday was Senate Bill 549, which requires restaurants to offer healthy beverages as a default choice for drinks automatically included as part of a children’s meal. Tribune-Herald.

=====

In debate, Gabbard again keys on anti-war message. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard again issued her dire warning of a new war looming in the Middle East during her first national prime-time debate with nine of the other Democratic presidential candidates on Wednesday, and her campaign issued a bulletin criticizing the format of the forum even before it was over. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard Sticks To Her Talking Points In First Presidential Debate. On a crowded podium with nine other Democratic candidates, the Hawaii congresswoman got a limited amount of speaking time. Civil Beat.

How did Hawaii’s Tulsi Gabbard hold up during the debate? These numbers gave a glimpse. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard took to the national stage Wednesday in a live televised debate against half of the leading democratic candidates for president. Hawaii News Now.

1st Democratic Debate: Live Analysis Of Night 1. Twenty candidates have made it to the first round of Democratic primary debates. Hawaii Public Radio.

=====

220 mayors to attend conference in Waikiki. More than 220 mayors from across the United States will gather at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort this weekend to share ideas about how to make their cities better. Star-Advertiser.

Mainland Mayors Face Backlash For Business Trip To Honolulu. The criticism highlights a longstanding perception problem Hawaii has in attracting conferences and conventions. Civil Beat.

=====

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants hold first major union protest in 20 years. At least a couple of hundred Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants on Wednesday held their first major Hawaii labor demonstration in nearly 20 years to protest protracted negotiations over a new contract. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants hit the picket lines at HNL. The flight attendants have been in contract negotiations with the airlines for over two years now. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants picket at HNL airport. According to Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants, if they don't get a raise soon, their company can expect a strike. KITV.

Hawaii’s Longliners Could Soon Be Allowed To Catch 18 Million Pounds Of Tuna. Federal fishery managers recommended significantly increasing the amount of ahi that the fleet can catch. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Jury starts deliberations in Kealoha corruption case. After listening to 16 days of testimony from 71 witnesses and three days of closing and rebuttal arguments by the lawyers, the 12-person jury in one of the largest public corruption cases in the state’s history began deliberations Wednesday afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha Conspiracy Trial Is Now In The Hands Of The Jury. Closing arguments in one of the most highly-publicized criminal trials in Hawaii history concluded Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Jury Begins Deliberating In Hawaii's Biggest Corruption Case. A Hawaii corruption case alleging a former police chief and his wife conspired to frame a man is now in the hands of a jury. Associated Press.

With closing arguments complete, jurors in Kealoha ‘mailbox trial’ begin deliberations. Closing arguments in the closely-watched public corruption case against the Kealohas wrapped up Wednesday, and the case is now in the hands of jurors. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Hawaii Supreme Court: Boards Must Prove Privacy Interest To Close Meetings. The court ruled in favor of the Civil Beat Law Center on a case involving the Honolulu Police Commission’s actions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii AG: Rehab Center Ignored Promised Reforms For 2 Years. The director of Sand Island Treatment Center reportedly did not pay back part of his excessive salary for two years because he was “distracted.” Civil Beat.

Lawsuit alleges child abuse, cover-up at Kroc Center in Kapolei. The parents of a former preschool student on Oahu have sued the Kroc Center and at least one former teacher at the institution over allegations of child neglect and physical abuse. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu spa suspected of promoting prostitution raided. A massage parlor suspected of promoting prostitution was raided Wednesday morning. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Beth Chapman, one half of world-famous bounty hunting duo, dies in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Beth Chapman, reality TV star and Hawaii bounty hunter, dies after long battle with cancer. Star-Advertiser.


“You can fight to have a little extra time,” Beth Chapman, 51, passes after battle with cancer. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

TMT NPDES Permit Hearing In Kona. All testifiers spoke in opposition to the Thirty Meter Telescope storm water discharge permit renewal and requested a contested case hearing. Big Island Video News.

UH says it reached out to protesters before ahu were removed at TMT site. The rapid removal of two ahu at the Thirty Meter Telescope site on Maunakea last week came after years of failed attempts at communication between the University of Hawaii and TMT protesters. Tribune-Herald.

Future Of Hilo Landfill Site Discussed. The process of closing the South Hilo Sanitary Landfill and monitoring it for decades after was talked about at a public meeting on June 26. Big Island Video News.

EA contract signed for Kealakehe Regional Park. County Department of Parks and Recreation deputy director Maurice Messina said on Wednesday that a $195,300 contract with PBR Hawaii and Associates has been inked, although he didn’t have a timeline for the preparation of the assessment itself. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Provides Update on Maui Housing, Puts Illegal Short Term Rentals “On Notice”. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is holding a press conference this morning to discuss housing efforts being carried out by the County of Maui. Maui Now.

Maui Mayor plans to crackdown on illegal vacation rentals. KHON2.

Housing panel concerned with a lack of water. Facing questions about the lack of water in Launiupoko, consultants for two proposed housing projects said Tuesday that recent shortages are due to the ongoing transition from surface to groundwater, and that wells in the area would be enough to cover the needs of the new communities. Maui News.

Maui News switching to 6-day newspaper. Saturday, July 6, marks a new chapter for The Maui News as readers will experience a brand-new edition called The Weekender. Maui News.

Kauai

Hope for Courtyards at Waipouli. The County Council heard emotional public testimony from two residents of the Courtyards at Waipouli Apartments about a resolution by the council supporting efforts towards preserving the affordability restrictions and the potential acquisition of the 82-unit property before Aug. 19, when a 10-year affordability contract with the county expires. Garden Island.

KIUC to issue patronage capital credits. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative will begin issuing $2.5 million in 2018 patronage capital retirement bill credits to cooperative members this month. Garden Island.

Hawaii to ban 'gay panic' defense, allow 'Gender X,' herbicides banned at schools, Honolulu hires criminal defense in rail probe, Karen Pence to visit military families, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gay pride parade ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii to Become 6th State to Ban “Gay Panic” as Affirmative Defense for Murder. Hawaii's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual community is awaiting the governor’s signature on bills, that when signed into law today, will advance rights and protections of those who identify as such. Maui Now.

Gov. Ige to sign bill allowing ‘Gender X’ on Hawaii driver licenses. In an effort to reduce discrimination against transgender and gender fluid individuals, Hawaii driver licenses will soon sport ‘Gender X’ as an option. Hawaii News Now.

Bill to add more gender categories on Hawaii driver’s licenses to be signed into law. A bill to expand gender categories on Hawaii driver’s licenses will be signed into law today. KHON2.

=====

Herbicides banned on Hawaii public school campuses, superintendent says. Superintendent Christina Kishimoto, after hearing that Roundup was being used on some campuses, sent a memo Tuesday to all principals stressing that herbicides are banned at Hawaii public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Vague guidelines on pesticide use at schools has community calling for change. Parents alongside concerned members of the the community are challenging school officials over the chemicals being used to kill weeds on campus. Hawaii News Now.

Two mothers are suing the Hawaii Department of Public Safety on behalf of their children, over what their lawsuit describes as “repeated and deliberate indifference towards the safety and well-being of inmates with serious mental health issues.” Garden Island.

More than 1,000 pieces of stolen mail found in late postal worker’s storage unit. In an email confirming the discovery, the USPS said there were about 1,000 pieces of stolen mail from about 13 to 15 years ago, along with roughly 11,000 USPS Return Receipt post cards. Hawaii News Now.

Karen Pence visits Hawaii. The Second Lady will speak to military families to highlight the Blue Star Museum program, which she serves as honorary co-chair. KHON2.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell signs vacation rental policy bill. It took roughly three decades, but the city now has a broad-ranging policy regulating vacation rentals. Star-Advertiser.

City Will Use ‘Digital Stings’ To Nab Illegal Vacation Rentals Starting Aug. 1. But the full effect of Oahu’s new law severely limiting Airbnb-type rentals and imposing stiff fines on violators won’t start until late 2020. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Signs Measure To Regulate Short-Term Rentals. Mayor Kirk Caldwell vetoed one short-term rental measure and signed another that will restrict the operation of the rentals on Oahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Caldwell signs ‘historic’ bill regulating vacation rental industry on Oahu. Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed a bill into law on Tuesday that will enact some of the toughest new regulations for Oahu’s vacation rental industry in nearly 40 years. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Caldwell signs vacation rentals bill 89, vetoes bill 85. The mayor signed the bill at a press conference at Honolulu Hale on Tuesday. KITV.

=====

City hiring lawyer to address rail subpoenas. The city is hiring an outside attorney to help handle issues related to a federal criminal investigation of the Honolulu rail project, and has budgeted up to $50,000 to cover the cost of that legal work. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Closing arguments in Kealoha corruption trial begin. Prosecutors have said Katherine Kealoha wanted to frame Gerard Puana to keep him from revealing fraud that financed the couple's lavish lifestyle. KITV.

The Kealoha conspiracy case is a story of “greed and manipulation,” a federal prosecutor says. Lawyers for the two remaining defendants, Nguyen and Shiraishi, are scheduled to give their closings this morning; then the government gets the last word with rebuttal remarks. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha Conspiracy Trial: ‘Power, Greed And Manipulation’. Closing arguments began Tuesday in the trial of Louis and Katherine Kealoha and three Honolulu police officers. Civil Beat.

Defense calls government’s allegations in Kealoha mailbox trial ‘imagination’. In fiery closing arguments Tuesday, a federal prosecutor in the closely-watched public corruption case against the Kealohas told jurors that the case isn’t about a mailbox but about why the defendants would try to frame a Kealoha relative with its theft. Hawaii News Now.

30 HPD Officers Assigned to Watch Kealohas' Relative, Prosecutor Says In Closing Arguments. A U.S. prosecutor says 30 Honolulu police officers conducted 24-hour surveillance on the uncle of former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha the week she claimed he stole her mailbox in 2013. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

E. Kalani Flores testified in opposition to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit renewal for the Thirty Meter Telescope construction on Mauna Kea, one of many to speak out at a public hearing held Tuesday night in Kona. Big Island Video News.

Kailua-Kona’s first medical marijuana dispensary opens Sunday. Hawaiian Ethos, one of only two businesses licensed to sell medical marijuana products on the Big Island, plans a grand opening celebration Sunday at its Olowalu Street dispensary in the Kaloko Light Industrial Area. West Hawaii Today.

Island’s two major well-diggers have work galore. The Big Island’s two major well-drillers continue to ask for more time to complete their projects, even as new contracts are awarded to them. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Final EIS released for Pulehunui master plan. Plan outlines water, wastewater, roads for major state projects. Maui News.

Maui Bus to Reduce Fares for Seniors, Disabled and Others, July 1. The County of Maui Department of Transportation announced that beginning Monday, July 1, 2019, the Maui Bus is implementing reduced single boarding fares of $1.00 for fixed route service. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hundreds rally for salt ponds. A Kauai County Planning Commission meeting drew a crowd of well over a hundred local residents, who showed up at the county government building in Lihue on Tuesday morning to speak on behalf of their culture, their heritage, their land and their salt. Garden Island.