Fewer than half of Hawaii schoolchildren proficient in math and reading, state lawmaker wrongly claims hundreds of thousands in property tax exemptions, activists decry 'timid' stance on cockfighting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Fewer than half of Hawaii’s keiki proficient in reading and math. A new study reports that fewer than half of Hawaii’s students are proficient in reading and math and that Hawaii is ranked among the bottom third of states nationally for economic well-being, indicating a need for more state action supporting keiki and families. Star-Advertiser.

State Lawmaker Wrongly Claims Hundreds Of Thousands Of Dollars In Property Tax Exemptions. House Rep. Micah Aiu has owned a Kinau Street apartment near downtown since 2018 but has been living in Moanalua, which he represents, since 2021. Civil Beat.

Activists decry Hawaii’s ‘timid’ stance on cockfighting as they push for tougher laws nationwide. Animal Wellness Action, based in Washington D.C., says Hawaii is among the weakest states for cockfighting laws. Hawaii News Now.

'Inappropriate behavior' alleged in lawsuit against top officials at Department of Law Enforcement. A commander in the Sheriff Division of the Department of Law Enforcement filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the department's top officials, alleging inappropriate behavior including sexual harassment. KITV4.

Prices Have Abruptly Skyrocketed At The Arizona Prison That Houses Many Hawaii Inmates. A contractor that provides store orders for more than 1,000 Hawaii convicts at a privately run prison in Arizona has jacked up its prices, a move critics condemn as “price gouging” that is causing hardship for the Hawaii inmates and their families. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Finally Fires Electrical Inspector Who Approved His Own Jobs. Arthur Suverkropp was officially let go as of April 29, according to his former employer, the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting. Civil Beat.

Council, retailers wish to ignite fireworks bill. In spite of government seizures to quash illegal fireworks on Oahu, the Honolulu City Council is pushing a new measure to allow some currently banned “consumer fireworks” — namely, ground-level fountains and sparklers — to be legally sold to those with permits, during designated periods like New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July. Star-Advertiser.

Plan for vacant publicly-funded units unveiled, but timeline for filling them still uncertain. For nearly two and a half years, 27 brand new low-income units have sat vacant in Iwilei because the city was unable to find a property manager to run the place. Now, the state is in charge of operations. Hawaii News Now.

State moves forward with plan to acquire HPU’s former Windward Oahu home. The 123-acre property has potential for housing in student dorms and as a temporary headquarters for the state Department of Health. Hawaii News Now.

How could Waikiki respond to sea level rise? These researchers have some ideas. By the end of the century, sea level rise will reach nearly 6 feet, the current estimates predict. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Falls of Clyde is a step closer to being removed from Honolulu Harbor. The ship has already been delisted from the state and national registers of historic places, and a Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation environmental assessment on its removal was released this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

Porn Producer Is Waging War In Honolulu Against Alleged Copyright Pirates. An adult film company known variously as a “copyright troll” and “the Steven Spielberg of porn” is campaigning in Honolulu to stop alleged piracy of its “high-end, artistic and performer-inspiring motion pictures” distributed on sites with names like “Tushy,” “MILFY” and “Vixen.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hilo housing complex for veterans will offer 92 units. Big Island veterans should be able to move into a long-awaited Hilo housing development by September. Tribune-Herald.

Above average rain in May unlikely to ease dry season concerns. Hilo International Airport recorded 9.75 inches of rain in May, 139% of its norm. Piihonua, on the Mauna Loa slope above Hilo, received 22.21 inches, 165% of its May average. Tribune-Herald.

King’s Landing Settlement Plan Draft EA Published. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has published a draft environmental assessment for the planned settlement of King's Landing, where beneficiaries have already been living for 40 years. Big Island Video News.

Maui

EIS preparation notice issued for Mākena Mauka development, with 850 to 900 homes. Public comments are due July 8 for an environmental impact statement preparation notice for Mākena Mauka, a proposed 1,041-acre, master-planned residential community located within the Mākena Golf & Beach Club in South Maui. Maui Now.

Recovery plan workshop for Lahaina Town South residents. The Lahaina Town South neighborhood will have a planning workshop this Saturday through the county's Office of Recovery and Department of Planning. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Return To Lahaina? Camping Out On His Vacant Lot Sounds Perfect To This Fire Victim. After 10 months living in a resort condominium paid for by the federal government, Mario Siatris just wants to get back to his land. Civil Beat.

Environmental Groups Seek Injunction In Maui Seabird Case. Conservation Council for Hawaii and the Center for Biological Diversity say the Grand Wailea Resort must be barred at certain times of the year from using bright lights at night. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric launches Public Safety Power Shutoff program to enhance wildfire safety on Maui, Molokai. Starting July 1, Hawaiian Electric is launching its Public Safety Power Shutoff program to reduce the risk of wildfire. Maui News.

Kauai

DHHL Is Finding It’s Not So Easy To Just Buy An Apartment Building For Families On The Homelands Waitlist. A rental project for Kauai families on the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands waitlist is in limbo as millions of dollars in tax credits it needs to move forward this summer are likely to be rejected by the state housing finance agency. Civil Beat.

Kaua‘i rainfall totals above average for month of May. The U.S. Geological Survey’s rain gauge on Mount Waiʻaleʻale had the highest monthly total of 45.64 inches (148% of average) and the highest daily total of 6.18 inches on May 13. The Kalāheo and ʻŌmaʻo gages posted their highest May totals since 2011. Kauai Now.

Gov. Green teams up with Omidyar group for federal funding, state's largest solar farm goes on line, Miske acquitted of attempted murder, Mauna Kea telescope part of NASA’s $19.5M artificial star mission, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor Green, Ulupono Initiative Team Up For Federal Funds. Governor Josh Green on Monday announced the State of Hawaiʻi will be partnering with the Ulupono Initiative to boost access to federal funds. The Ulupono Initiative, an Omidyar Group venture, was founded in 2009 to support and promote “locally produced food, renewable energy, clean transportation choices, and better management of freshwater resources.” Big Island Video News. Maui Now.

Kids Count report Shows Early Impacts Of The Pandemic On Hawaii Students And Families. While the Covid-19 pandemic left its mark on Hawaii students’ achievement and families’ economic stability, the results may not be as dire as expected, according to a national report released Monday.  Civil Beat.

‘It’s everywhere’ labor shortage plaguing every industry. The labor shortage is very real according to officials. And they said it isn’t just one field, it’s across the board. KHON2.

Young Hawaii farmers face mental health crisis says new UH study. According to a new study, published by the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (CTAHR), nearly 50% of farmers in Hawaii under the age of 46 have suffered from experienced of depression and nearly 14% with suicidal thoughts. KITV4.

Midwives ask court to stop Hawaii law that requires licensing to practice. Nine plaintiffs a civil complaint, asking for the court to stop the state of Hawaii from enforcing the “Midwifery Restriction Law,” which they say criminalizes practitioners, including skilled midwives who do not have the licensing the state now requires to practice midwifery, as well as birth workers and family members who care and support those who are pregnant and giving birth. Star-Advertiser.

Electric vehicles put charge into Hawaii’s auto sales. Battery electric vehicle registrations in the state rose 11% in the first quarter from the year-earlier period as the market share of BEVs among all vehicles sold in Hawaii reached a record 15%, according to a recent report from Hawaii Auto Outlook. Star-Advertiser.

Supreme Court seeks US government views on Honolulu climate suit against oil companies. The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday asked President Joe Biden’s administration to offer its views on a bid by Sunoco and other oil companies to scuttle a lawsuit by Honolulu accusing them of deceiving the public about climate change. Reuters.

Oahu

Judge Acquits Miske Of Attempted Murder Related To A 2017 Ambush At Kualoa Ranch. The charges stem from an attack on Lindsey Kinney, a Kaneohe man a former Miske associate said the alleged crime boss wanted dead. Civil Beat.

Honolulu to pay $7M to boy injured in 2021 police chase. City attorneys agreed to pay $7 million to a boy who was partially paralyzed after a police chase led to a crash and an alleged cover-up in Makaha in September 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Most Oʻahu residents don't have flood insurance, city survey finds. Only one in five Oʻahu residents have flood insurance, according to a recent survey conducted by the City and County of Honolulu.  Hawaii Public Radio.

HART board agrees to discuss, vote on CEO's contract in upcoming meeting. A vote to extend Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director and CEO Lori Kahikina’s contract to lead Oʻahu’s rail operations could come in two weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

BWS seeks to reassure public after legionella bacteria detected at federal building. The Board of Water Supply said people who live and work in Downtown Honolulu should not be concerned about the discovery of legionella bacteria in the Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole federal building and courthouse water systems last month. Hawaii News Now.

City officials to unveil new homeless services initiative. Honolulu’s Mayor Rick Blangiardi, alongside city and county leaders, will convene with homelessness and healthcare experts to introduce the city’s latest endeavor: the Leahi Behavioral and Medical Respite facility. KHON2.

Kahala landowner on notice for alleged shoreline violations. State and county officials have put a Kahala Avenue property owner on notice of potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines due to multiple alleged violations of shoreline laws. Star-Advertiser.

New Oʻahu solar project on military land prepares to come online. Kūpono Solar is the largest solar, plus storage, project on the island and can generate enough energy to power 10,000 homes, according to its developer Ameresco, Inc. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

UH telescope part of NASA’s $19.5M artificial star mission. A University of Hawaiʻi telescope on Maunakea will play a key role in a newly approved $19.5 million NASA space mission that will put an artificial “star” in orbit around the Earth. Maui Now.

DHHL plan would develop more than 1,300 acres at King’s Landing. On Saturday, a draft environmental assessment was published for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands’ “King’s Landing Kuleana Homestead Settlement Plan” — a proposal to take several DHHL-owned parcels near Keaukaha totaling 1,334 acres and allow them to be developed as homestead land. Tribune-Herald.

Family of ‘Sammy’ Mwarey sues police department, cop. The family of a 16-year-old Hilo High School junior who died after being struck as a pedestrian by an on-duty Hawaii Police Department officer driving a blue-and-white police cruiser is suing the department and the officer. Tribune-Herald.

Cop cleared in teen’s death. An 18-year Hawaii Police Department veteran who was behind the wheel of a police cruiser when it struck and killed a 16-year-old pedestrian in January is back on duty. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Monk Seal Relocated After Biting Divers Off Kona. A Hawaiian monk seal that was said to be approaching and biting divers in the waters off Kona has been translocated to a remote island in Papahānaumokuākea.  Big Island Video News.

Maui

AES Hawai‘i begins operations of the state’s largest solar facility. The Kuihelani Solar-plus-Storage sits on 450 acres in central Maui, and is producing 60 megawatts of renewable energy supported by a 240 MWh lithium-ion battery energy storage system to supply 15% of Maui’s energy needs, Hawaiian Electric said in a statement. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Kapono‘ai Molitau appointed Director of County Department of Oiwi Resources. Molitau is founder and CEO of Native Intelligence, opened in 2009 as a Hawaiian cultural resource center and retail business in Wailuku. Maui News.

With 100s of fire survivors still in hotels, concerns about disaster’s impact on rental market grows. A deadline that caused some panic among Lahaina fire survivors has been extended again. Meanwhile, there’s growing frustration about how FEMA’s disaster response has destabilized Maui’s rental market. Hawaii News Now.

A village designed to house hundreds of Maui fire survivors is hitting a new roadblock. The day after the fires, Family Life Center started planning Ohana Hope Village. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Tropic Care team ready for action on Kaua‘i. Tropic Care Kaua‘i is a medical mission from the United States Department of Defense; it is part of the defense department’s Innovative Readiness Training program. The Tropic Care team of about 200 military reservists includes nurses, doctors, pharmacists, optometrists, dermatologists and dentists from across the nation. Garden Island.

Annual report reveals rise in individual homelessness on Kaua‘i. While a newly released annual study showed an increase in individual homelessness it also revealed a decline in houseless families. Kauai Now.

Hawaii scores low in Kids Count report, ag grants go looking for farmers, Teamsters strike closing restaurants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii is 44th in nation for keiki economic well-being. Hawaii’s astronomical costs for child care and preschool are a major reason the economic well-being of keiki here has worsened comparatively, pushing the state down from 35th place to a dismal 44th among the 50 states on that measure in the latest annual Kids Count Data Book report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Farmers Could Use Some Help Landing Grants That Would Boost Farm Operations. Nonprofits have stepped in to help with grant writing but the state agriculture department has been slow to take advantage of available pots of money. Civil Beat.

Green signs bill to improve aid-in-dying law.  As of June 1, it is easier for terminally ill patients to obtain prescription medication to end their suffering.  Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Has Been ‘Sweeping’ Homeless From Public Lands For More Than 100 Years. The term "homeless sweep" doesn't appear in Hawaii newspapers until the early 2000s, but officials have been ordering large-scale homeless enforcements since at least 1901. Civil Beat.

Hawaii unemployment fund experiencing ‘painful’ growth. Hawaii’s unemployment insurance fund is more than two-thirds of the way back up to adequacy after depletion during COVID-19’s economic shock in 2020, but the recovery is causing pain at an inopportune time for businesses paying into the fund. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii insurers could face more scrutiny over executive pay.  State lawmakers say they may seek a legislative fix to ensure the state’s nonprofit health insurers, which enjoy generous tax breaks, disclose the compensation of their top executives and board members following a decision by the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs in April that effectively allows some insurers to keep the information secret. Star-Advertiser.

Talks resume in Hawaii Gas Teamsters strike, but no deal reached. Contract negotiations between Hawaii Gas and unionized employees on strike have resumed, but the two sides don’t appear any closer to reaching an agreement. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

$2 million insurance coverage added for island coral reefs. With the Central Pacific hurricane season underway, an insurance policy covering up to $2 million in damage to Hawaii’s coral reefs is now in effect. Star-Advertiser.

Cleaning Up: The Aftermath Of A Honolulu Union’s Embezzlement Scandal. Members of IBEW 1260 had to pick up the pieces after former business manager Brian Ahakuelo and his wife were convicted. Civil Beat.

Oahu

4 Honolulu councilmembers plan to vote against pay raises.  On July 1, the new Honolulu city council budget will go into effect. Including, a 64% pay raise for council members, unless eight of them vote no to the pay raises.  KHON2.

Honolulu Council treads lightly on salary, outside employment talks. The Honolulu City Council will continue discussions on whether members can hold outside employment after killing a bill this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the governor’s backyard, 8 homeless patients settle in at medical respite tiny village. Pulama Ola village opened on May 31st, and is now home to eight homeless patients who were recently discharged from local hospitals. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Chinatown Lions Club collaborates with Mayor Blangiardi to beautify downtown parks. Dozens of people, including Mayor Rick Blangiardi and city administrators, joined Honolulu-Chinatown Lions Club in cleaning up Smith-Beretania Park and Doctor Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park. Hawaii News Now.

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden considers limiting visitors and charging fees.  Nestled beneath the Koʻolau mountain range on Oʻahu, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden was a once-hidden gem. But social media has heightened awareness about the garden’s natural wonders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Community Development Authority tasked with slew of projects. The Hawaii Community Development Authority was created nearly 50 years ago with a broad-purpose name despite having a singular initial focus: improving one community, Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Former mayor documents COVID-era frustrations, alliances in book. Interviews with 25 Hawaii leaders reveal early concerns that the islands could become overrun with COVID-19 while others hoped the Pacific Ocean would provide a natural “border” to keep the virus out, according to a new book by former Mayor Kirk Caldwell and his longtime deputy managing director Georgette Takushi Deemer. Star-Advertiser.

Water disruption forces closure of popular Diamond Head State Monument on Oʻahu.  The popular Diamond Head State Monument on O‘ahu was cleared at mid-day Sunday after the park’s water system had to be shut down.  Maui Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Planning commissions talk shoreline setbacks.  A joint meeting of the Windward and Leeward Planning commissions on June 2 concluded their discussion of several proposed revisions to the county’s planning rules, which would, among other things, require that all new developments be located at least 40 feet inland from a shoreline, twice as far as is currently permitted. Tribune-Herald.

Council members debate establishment of sustainability office.  Formation of a proposed new Hawaii County agency has stalled following lengthy debates among members of the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Land board action paves way for conservation of 642 acres in N. Kohala. Hundreds of acres of land in North Kohala have been re-dedicated to conservation by a nonprofit that purchased the land last year. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

As tourists flock to eruption, agencies urge respect. Even as lava fountains from the erupting Kilauea Volcano continue reaching heights of up to 30 feet, Hawaii tourism officials urged visitors to be respectful when flocking to Hawaii island to get a glimpse of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Tax could fund projects, but some worry about cost. Maui County could have seen around $283 million in added income if it had followed other counties four years ago in adding its own surcharge to the state’s general excise tax, according to tax officials’ estimates.  Maui News.

Maui County finance director to serve on national AI committee. Maui County Finance Director Scott Teruya has been appointed to a national exploratory committee that will look into how artificial intelligence could potentially help local government.  Maui News.

Maui Residents Fight To Save Kihei’s Last Wetlands. County officials continue to approve new building permits close to shore despite rising seas. Civil Beat.

Damaged Lahaina playground closes. The Lahaina Recreation Center playground has been closed until further notice due to safety concerns over the damaged playground surface, the Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation announced Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami leads Kaua‘i delegation in visit to Philippines. A Kaua‘i delegation’s weeklong venture to the Philippines was deemed a success on both the business development and diplomatic fronts, as the group reforged its partnership with the country. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i visitors spent heavily in April. A robust tourism industry is on pace to surpass $2 billion in visitor spending this year, in large part to a stellar start to the 2023 season on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

 

Hawaii kids rank low in survey, Maui advances bill to let people sleep in their cars, Oahu power bills rise as HEI earnings up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii children at play ©2022 All Hawaii News

Hawaii ranks low in Kids Count national report. With school back in session and primary elections around the corner, advocates hope to see more investment in Hawaii’s children who, according to the 2022 Kids Count Data Book released today, rank in the lowest third of states when it comes to education and economic well-being. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s readiness for possible school shooting might be lagging. Many Hawaii schools and colleges have launched unprecedented efforts to prevent and prepare for an active shooter on campus as mass shootings and targeted school violence have risen to historic high levels in the United States. Star-Advertiser.

900 Hawaii school employees get violence-prevention training. With school shootings rising across the nation, the chief of the U.S. Secret Service center that is trying to stop targeted attacks on schools has a message for Hawaii: The Aloha State is not immune. Such violence can happen here. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Education considering requiring ‘run, hide, fight’ training. While a few dozen Hawaii public schools so far have received “run, hide, fight” training for responding to an active shooter on campus, demand is rising, and the state Department of Education is considering changing from providing it to schools on request to making it required. Star-Advertiser.

Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement wants to bring change to the visitor industry. Why is the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement fighting to keep a tourism award that would allow it to manage Hawaii tourism, while shaping how United States travelers view the state? Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii GOP Candidates Say They Just Want To Give Voters A Choice. Of the 10 Republican candidates on the ballot for a federal race, only state Rep. Bob McDermott has any meaningful political experience. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Industries reported second-quarter earnings of $53 million. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. (HE) on Monday reported second-quarter earnings of $53 million. The Honolulu-based company said it had profit of 48 cents per share. Associated Press.

Here’s What Climate Advocates Hope To See In Hawaii’s Next Governor. The state needs to dramatically cut its carbon emissions in the next eight years to hit its climate goals. That will require bold leadership, advocates say. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Oahu, Your Electric Bill Is About To Go Up. Oahu households can expect to see their monthly electricity bills increase by about 7% when Hawaiian Electric Co. shuts down the state’s last remaining coal-fired power plant on Sept. 1 and replaces it with another fossil fuel source: oil. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Navy divers describe conditions within the contaminated Red Hill well and how the mission affected them. For three months members of the Pearl Harbor-based Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit One worked inside the Navy’s contaminated Red Hill water well, becoming unlikely front-line responders to the crisis. Star-Advertiser.

After worrisome findings, UH task force calls for more testing of Navy tap water. University of Hawaii scientists are finally talking about their data ― showing what appears to be jet fuel still in the Navy’s tap water ― and are calling for more tests. Hawaii News Now.

2 well-known politicians face off in Democratic race for seat representing Aiea, Pearl City. Senate District 16 stretches from Halawa to Aiea and all the way down to Pearl City. And now the incumbent senator for the area is facing off against a longtime City Council member. Hawaii News Now.

‘It’s A Nightmare’: Feral Pig Population Explosion Rattles East Honolulu Neighborhood. Aina Haina, an affluent residential neighborhood on Oahu’s southeastern shore, wedged between Waialae/Kahala and Hawaii Kai, is trying to fend off an invasion of pigs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Public meetings for TMT environmental review to begin. The National Science Foundation will hold four meetings on consecutive nights Tuesday through Friday to hear the public’s views on what alternatives and environmental impacts should be studied when it conducts its proposed environmental impact statement. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island Deputy Prosecutor Ordered To Stop Alleged Harassment. A judge has summoned Randall Winston “Bew” Albright to appear in court and answer complaints that he’s been allegedly intimidating his neighbor. Civil Beat.

 Consultant hired to help fix EPIC. Hawaii County has hired a consultant to troubleshoot its building permit process in hopes of streamlining a critical government function analysts have called the most cumbersome in the nation. West Hawaii Today.

Affordable housing eyed for Waimea. Parker Ranch is exploring developing more affordable housing on the 175-year-old ranch’s lands in the coming years. West Hawaii Today.

Votes trickling in with one week left: Here’s what you need to know. With about a week left to vote on national, state and local races, a little more than 11% of the 112,630 Hawaii Island ballots mailed out have already been returned, and 19% of the 739,000 mailed ballots statewide, according to election officials. West Hawaii Today.

Three vie for House District 3 seat. Three candidates are vying for control of a newly formed House district that includes part of Hilo, Waiakea, Keaukaha and Keaau. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Bill to allow people to sleep in their vehicles in Maui County parking lots advances. Maui County Council on Friday voted unanimously to approve the bill on first reading. Bill 108 now advances to the second and final reading at full council. Maui Now.

Mayor proposes to buy former ʻIao Valley Lodge from Hawaiʻi Nature Center for $1.5M. Mayor Michael Victorino transmitted a proposal to the Maui County Council to purchase the acreage and the structure that was the former ʻĪao Valley Lodge in ʻĪao Valley for $1.5 million from the Hawaiʻi Nature Center. Maui Now.

Bilingual government issue on Maui ballot. A Maui County Charter amendment proposal slated to go before voters on the Nov. 8 general election ballot asks whether the county should establish a “Department of Oiwi Resources” as well as initiate bilingual government operations. Star-Advertiser.

Maui managed retreat fund would come to rescue when infrastructure falls into ocean. West Maui has nine condo complexes at risk of falling into the ocean. Maui Now.

Maui County Council Advances Investigation Into Developer’s Monster House. The Maui County Council voted on Friday to authorize the Planning and Sustainable Land Use Committe to investigate how and why the Victorino administration allowed a controversial monster house to be built in Napili. Civil Beat.

Three compete in closely watched Democratic primary for Senate District 7. Senate District 7. In what is arguably one of the most closely watched races this election cycle, incumbent Sen. Lynn DeCoite will defend her seat against two Democratic primary challengers, Walter Ritte and Leo Caires. All three candidates hope to represent Senate District 7, which covers East Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami outspends competition in mayor’s race. Mayor Derek Kawakami has spent more than 10 times the funds on his re-election campaign than all three of his opponents combined, financial disclosures show. Garden Island.

Third-party audit critical of county’s Roads Division. An audit conducted by Spire Hawai‘i LLP reported that the county Department of Public Works Roads Division did not have “the necessary and qualified staff” to perform maintenance projects it is responsible for. Garden Island.

Democrats debate tonight, fewer women judges, Hawaii County passes general excise tax surcharge as lava claims mount, Honolulu plastic bag ban goes into effect, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii children at play ©2018 All Hawaii News

Hawaii landed in the middle of the pack, ranking 24th for child well-being among the 50 states, according to the 2018 Kids Count Data Book released today by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s population is projected in a state economic report to increase gradually and reach 1.65 million people by 2045, with the fastest growth occurring on the neighbor islands. Star-Advertiser.

Super Debate to feature Democratic candidates for 3 key races. Hawaii News Now.

Pivotal Oahu Seat Is Up For Grabs In OHA Elections. Peter Apo is leaving the Office of Hawaiian Affairs board, setting up a seven-way race to replace him. Civil Beat.

Fewer women are applying for judge positions in Hawaii. Today, women make up 39 percent of the 80 bench seats, compared with 36 percent in 2004. Star-Advertiser.

Insurer rescinds pot payout. Hawaii’s workers’ compensation insurers are grappling with reimbursements for medical marijuana claims that are slowly trickling in as more doctors certify patients to use cannabis as an alternative to opioids. Star-Advertiser.

New state law makes credit security freezes free for Hawaii residents. A new state law that went into effect on Sunday will allow Hawaii consumers to request free security freezes. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed bans on plastic straws run into resistance in Hawaii and dozens of U.S. cities. Associated Press.

Exhibitors showcase latest technology trends at RIMPAC's inaugural innovation fair. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Struggle For Power In Honolulu Is Coming To A Head. New taxes and other fees. More money for rail. Even monster houses. The fate of contentious city issues hinges on who’s elected. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Wins Right To Intervene In HPD Arbitration Case. The news outlet has been seeking the report that gave Sgt. Darren Cachola his job back. Civil Beat.

No cleanup help for ‘floatilla’. Revelers at the annual Independence Day “floatilla” off of Waikiki are on their own this year as far as cleanup efforts are concerned, according to local nonprofit Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Protesters rally against zero-tolerance immigration policy. On Oahu people rallied at the state capitol and marched to the federal building. It was just one of hundreds of Families Belong Together events planned this weekend. KHON2.

Hundreds show up for the keep families together rally in Hawaii. KITV.

Don’t forget your reusable bags. Starting Sunday, Honolulu businesses will charge at least 15 cents per bag provided to customers at checkout. Star-Advertiser.

Stores react to new bag fee. KHON2.

Oahu DMV lines expected to get longer this summer. The state has a seen a surge of license renewals, leading to long lines at many centers. While the wait has increased for many, it is expected to be get even worse as renewals peak later this year. KITV.

After several delays, city to move forward with redevelopment of Varona Village. Long-awaited plans to revitalize a former plantation town are finally moving forward after several delays. Star-Advertiser.

A hearing on the possible eviction of former longtime employees of Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa from their Pearl City home will take place this week after being delayed. Star-Advertiser.

A failed business deal between the YMCA of Honolulu and a real estate development firm has descended into another legal dispute after the developer was ordered to pay the nonprofit $2 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Business Picked as Best Regional Business Magazine in the Country. Hawaii Business.

Civil Beat Named Best News Website In Hawaii. Journalism awards for Hawaii media were announced at the annual SPJ banquet Friday night. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

A one-quarter-percent surcharge will be added to the general excise tax in Hawaii County starting Jan. 1, following action Friday by the County Council. After teetering on both the winning and losing side of a 5-4 vote for months, the bill passed 7-2 just one day before the state-imposed deadline. West Hawaii Today.

Councilmembers voted to resurrect a failed bill on Friday, enacting a one- quarter (.25) percent general excise and use tax surcharge at the county level. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim asked the council to pass the new general excise surcharge as Hawaii County faces a fiscal struggle made worse by the eruption of Kilauea Volcano in Puna. Big Island Video News.

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State Sen. Lorraine Inouye is proposing that Hawaii County officials prohibit new construction on thousands of lots in the two highest risk lava inundation zones to try to prevent another disaster on the scale of the ongoing May 3 eruption of Kilauea Volcano. Star-Advertiser.

County, state and federal lawmakers took part in a public forum on Saturday to discuss the future of the Puna district in light of the ongoing eruption of Kilauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Department of Health Expands Air Quality Monitoring on Hawaii Island. Maui Now.

Community organizers celebrated the spirit of collaboration Saturday as they officially dedicated a new micro-housing facility for residents displaced by the ongoing lava flow in Lower Puna. Star-Advertiser.

During a blessing of 20 small shelters for those displaced by the Kilauea eruption, Hope Services CEO Brandee Menino said it’s hard to put a price tag on the value of all the donated supplies and labor for the first transitional village. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported Sunday that fissure No. 8 in Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone continues to be active and feeding a lava channel to the ocean at Kapoho, producing a broad ocean entry at Kapoho Beach Lots. The spatter cone was said to be about 180-feet high. Tribune-Herald.

What causes the collapse/explosion events at Kilauea’s summit? Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea eruption has shaken Volcano village. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii County is asking two companies to hold their bid prices for the Lono Kona sewer project until the U.S. Department of Agriculture approves the awarding of a contract. West Hawaii Today.

The state Public Utilities Commission voted 3-0 to give Hawaii Electric Light Co. a reduced rate increase so that the utility can meet its revenue requirement of $290.7 million. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 2.3 million gallons of rain and wastewater were discharged from Big Island Dairy in Ookala over three days in May, before heading into nearby gulches. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Atay’s assistant is barred from Council Services floor, ag offices. Bardellini deemed to have violated policy on workplace violence. Maui Now.

The firefighter’s chief. Jeff Murray retires as second longest serving chief, willing to get into the mud and smoke. Maui News.

Maui hotels and resorts posted a rosy May with visitor arrivals by air up 7.3 percent over the same month last year, visitor spending up double-digits and revenues per room at $259 — the highest in the state — the Hawaii Tourism Authority said in two reports last week. Maui News.

Maui News staffers earn 16 awards from journalism professionals group. Maui’s Last Harvest nets journalism prize. Maui News.

Primates Find a Home in Upcountry Maui. For 34 years the Maui’s Pacific Primate Sanctuary has been home to monkeys - -marmosets and tamarind monkeys- which are not native to the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Ensuring the government is in compliance with the ideal of capitalism is why Ana Mo Des is running for mayor. Garden Island.

Kauai Fire Department officials are reminding the public that a permit must be obtained by Tuesday to purchase and ignite firecrackers on the Fourth of July. Garden Island.

Plum season officially opened this weekend at Kauai's Kokee State Park. The sweet plums are an island favorite for many, and families enjoy making the trek up the mountain to pick the fruit. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii reacts to travel ban ruling, state to get more missile defense against North Korea threat, Honolulu continues rousting homeless, Hawaii County mayor signs budget, DNA testing lags, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin on travel ban, courtesy photo

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Monday ruled in favor of Hawaii’s challenge of President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban, setting up a likely face-off before the U.S. Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

President Donald Trump’s revised executive order on immigration suffered another major setback Monday, when a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled unanimously in favor of Hawaii to uphold a preliminary injunction against the travel ban. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Attorney General Douglas Chin sounded like he couldn't be happier with the outcome. KITV.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco ruled Monday in favor of Hawaii’s challenge to President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban, the second appeals court to reject the administration’s move to curb immigration from six mostly Muslim nations. Associated Press.

Another U.S. appeals court stomped on President Donald Trump's revised travel ban Monday, saying the administration violated federal immigration law and failed to provide a valid reason for keeping people from six mostly Muslim nations from coming to the country. Associated Press.

Lawyers for Hawaii told the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday that letting the Trump administration enforce a ban on travel from six mostly Muslim countries would “thrust the country back into the chaos and confusion” that resulted when the policy was first announced in January. Associated Press.

Another federal court has ruled against President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban. Now a decision first made locally is likely headed to the U.S. Supreme Court. KHON2.

The State of Hawaii filed its memorandum in opposition of the Trump administration's revised travel ban to the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday morning. Pacific Business News.

Members of Hawaii’s Congressional delegation are lauding a U.S. appeals court decision to uphold the state's injunction against President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s congressional leaders reacted to the Ninth Circuit Court’s ruling Monday against President Trump’s travel ban. Garden Island.

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With growing concern over Hawaii’s potential vulnerability to North Korean ballistic missiles, plans are being fast-tracked for a new medium-­range radar here, while a Pentagon official confirmed that a new U.S. defensive missile being developed jointly with Japan could add a second layer of defense for the state. Star-Advertiser.

The San Diego-based aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson is scheduled to pull into Pearl Harbor Wednesday after a five-month deployment during which it and the carrier USS Ronald Reagan conducted rare joint training in the Sea of Japan in a massive show of force aimed at North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

USS Michael Murphy, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, will return to its homeport Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam after a successful five-month deployment. Maui Now.

Commercial aquarium fish collection may no longer be a viable career in Hawaii unless Gov. David Ige can be convinced to take out his veto pen in the next two weeks. Star-Advertiser.

State and county officials are months late in launching a website and producing a public service announcement informing victims of sexual assault about an effort to test hundreds of rape kits that have sat in evidence rooms for years untested. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii ranks 17th among the states for child well-being, with an improving economic picture and nearly universal health coverage for kids, according to the 2017 Kids Count Data Book released today. Star-Advertiser.

As of today the dominant cable TV system operator in the state has been re-branded as Spectrum, replacing Oceanic, which had served kamaaina customers since the 1960s. Star-Advertiser.

Oceanic Time Warner Cable has officially changed its name to Spectrum following the merger of their respective parent companies last year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell, Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro, the nine members of the Honolulu City Council and the city’s appointed employees are getting a 5 percent pay raise starting July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Medical Bills Exceed $1 Million For Woman Accidentally Shot By Cop. Hyun Ju Park was working at a bar when Anson Kimura’s duty weapon discharged, lodging a bullet in her stomach. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Department has matched some of the DNA profiles obtained from 180 recently processed rape kits with potential perpetrators in a national offender database — a development that could lead to solving years-old crimes or prevent serial sex offenders from committing new ones. Star-Advertiser.

Since a homeless sweep in February, few if any homeless have returned to the steep hillside of Diamond Head Monument, in what appears to be one of the few cases of the state's enforcement in homeless encampments that's actually stuck. Hawaii News Now.

State Sheriffs will conduct a homeless sweep of the area off Nimitz Highway Tuesday. KITV.

With 10 days to go until the next round of "king tides," plans are moving forward to strengthen Hawaii's most famous beach. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim signed a $490.8 million budget Friday, a 6 percent increase compared with the current fiscal year. Tribune-Herald.

With a year to go before candidate qualifying ends for the 2018 election, Kona Councilman Dru Kanuha is ready to make the leap to the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Sewage from ruptured main that occurred earlier today has entered the ocean in Kona, closing the waters around Kailua Bay. Big Island Video News.

Jaylin Kema, mother of missing “Peter Boy” Kema, is scheduled to be sentenced to probation today in Circuit Court in Hilo after pleading guilty to manslaughter in her son’s death. Star-Advertiser.

One of two companies slated to open Hawaii Island’s first medical marijuana dispensaries says a change in production plans has pushed its estimated opening into next year. Tribune-Herald.

Tourism summit looks to entice group travel to Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Electric Co. ranked seventh for connecting energy storage to the grid, according to the Smart Electric Power Alliance that surveyed 412 utilities nationwide. Maui News.

The median price for single-family homes and condominiums on Maui jumped 12.4 percent and 13.5 percent, respectively, in May from last year, caused by low housing inventory, according to a report by the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Police officers issued 2,351 citations during the two-week “Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign that ended June 4. Maui News.

Kauai

Senior Master Sergeant Ryan Voigt, second in command at the Kauai Community College clinical site for Tropic Care Kauai 2017, had concerns over the long lines outside the Office of Continuing Education and Training center Monday. Garden Island.

A new study found that people who attend regular religious services tend to live less stressful and healthier lives. Garden Island.

Lanai

A drop in construction work on Lanai resulted in a 26.2 percent decline in the amount of cargo in and out of the island’s Kaumalapau Harbor, the smallest in the state, according to first-quarter statistics from interisland shipper Young Brothers. Maui News.

Ige opposes Hawaiian Electric/NextEra deal, medical marijuana permits to be fast-tracked, Honolulu rethinks ethics policy, neighbor island lawmakers' allowances studied, homeless sweep planned, pay-as-you-throw trash deal considered, Maui mulls surf spot land buy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy NextEra Energy

Gov. David Ige said Monday he is opposed to NextEra Energy Inc.’s purchase of Hawaii’s largest electric utility and is recommending the state Public Utilities Commission reject the deal. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative has — for the first time — urged state regulators to seriously consider the cooperative model as an alternative to the proposed merger of Hawaii Electric Industries with Florida-based NextEra Energy. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative, which formed earlier this year to explore the possibility of cooperative utility ownership, is in the process of doing a 10-year financial analysis to quantify the potential savings of this type of business model, one of its co-founders said Monday. Pacific Business News.

State health officials say they’re looking to streamline the application process for medical marijuana patient cards — which some local physicians say is unduly burdensome — ahead of the first pot dispensaries to open in Hawaii next year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii taxpayers write a check every year to neighbor island legislators for more than $400,000 to cover expenses the lawmakers don’t have to account for. Civil Beat.

Hawaii ranks in the middle of the pack nationally in child well-being, with almost all keiki covered by health insurance but many families burdened by housing costs, according to the 2015 KIDS COUNT Data Book. Star-Advertiser.

An Oahu educator has been appointed director of the Executive Office on Early Learning. Star-Advertiser.

If a child’s classroom gets extremely hot, should they remain in class? The new leader of the Hawaii State Teachers Association says they shouldn’t, and believes education officials should consider canceling school when the heat is unbearable. KHON2.

Opinion: Nearly eight months into Gov. David Ige’s tenure, it’s clear that the low-key technocrat’s deliberative, slow-to-judgment approach is serving Hawaii well in most cases. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Hawaii Fails the Elderly When It Cuts Long-Term Care Services. The looming cutbacks at state-run nursing homes have residents worried. And mainstream hospitals may have cause for concern as well. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu Ethics Commission is poised to rescind a controversial media policy one month after passing it. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Ethics Commission may backtrack on its recently adopted news media policy that prohibited Executive Director Chuck Totto and other staff members from interpreting or commenting on the commission’s decisions and advisory opinions. Civil Beat.

The administration of Mayor Kirk Caldwell has refused to renew the contract of the city Ethics Commission's only investigator, bringing some politically sensitive ethics cases to a halt at the end of June. Hawaii News Now.

The mayor and governor have agreed on a plan to shut down the huge Kakaako homeless camp and move its residents to a managed 'safe zone' elsewhere in the area. Hawaii News Now.

State officials are gearing up for a major sweep of homeless camps next month and the focus will be on the growing shanty towns that have sprung up on state land under control of the transportation department. KITV4.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is moving forward with a joint federal-state plan to manage Hawai’i shorelines. The current draft is creating quite a stir in Hawai’i Kai. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu’s only construction and demolition debris facility could run on 100 percent renewable energy, including solar and biofuel, by 2017, the landfill’s general manager confirmed to Pacific Business News this week.

Hawaii

Would people recycle more if they had to pay to throw out their trash? That’s a concept the County Council Environmental Management Committee is scheduled to discuss Thursday, under Bill 32, sponsored by Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille. West Hawaii Today.

A huge business opportunity has opened up in the commercial core of Kailua-Kona, with the proposed sale of the 243-acre West Hawaii Business Park, along with the option to include any of 14 nearby parcels. West Hawaii Today.

After 17 months in operation, Hospice of Hilo’s Hawaii Palliative Care Center has closed its doors and begun restructuring after having financial trouble. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council included in the current budget a $3 million appropriation to buy almost 268 north shore acres overlooking the famed "Jaws" big wave surfing site, but Mayor Alan Arakawa said last week that it'll actually cost the county more than $10 million to acquire the oceanfront land. Maui News.

It's been six years since the state established the Kahekili Herbivore Fisheries Management Area in north Kaanapali, and experts say key species of herbivores, such as parrotfish (uhu), rudderfish (nenue), surgeonfish and urchin, have shown signs of recovery. Maui News.

Kauai
The nonprofit whale conservation group Kohola Leo — Hawaiian for “whale’s voice” — will host a feature film night at Kapaa Library at 7 p.m. Friday. The event is free and open to the public. Garden Island.

More Hawaii children in poverty, Gabbard in spotlight, Hanabusa, Schatz battle for Senate, Waikiki homeless at issue, unsanctioned trails claim hikers, UH contract woes continue, Ellison to build tennis stadium on Lanai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii father and son (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The number of children growing up poor in Hawaii has continued to climb, with the families of about 1 in 6 keiki living in poverty, according to new data from the University of Hawaii Center on the Family. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard was featured on ABC's This Week "Sunday Spotlight," where she talked about contributions women have made in the U.S. military, the need to put an end to military sexual assault, and her time in office as a Hawaii representative. Star-Advertiser.

Should Colleen Hanabusa defeat Brian Schatz in the U.S. Senate race, she will owe her ascension largely to lingering affection for Daniel Inouye, the most powerful figure in the state's modern history. It would suggest that the late senator is so influential that he can win victories from beyond the grave. But if Schatz prevails, it could signal the end of an era of a kingmaker in Hawaii politics, and the beginning of a less predictable period. Civil Beat.

Burned by high-technology tax incentives that many tax policy experts thought were too generous and ripe for abuse, state lawmakers have chosen to resurrect a pared-down research and development credit to reward scientific experimentation. Star-Advertiser.

The Public Utilities Commission Finally Generates Some Sparks. Civil Beat.

Signs that Hawaii's superheated solar energy market is beginning to cool have some photovoltaic installation companies pulling out all stops with giveaways and other promotions to drum up new business. Star-Advertiser.

Educators May Give Poor Marks to New Teacher Evaluation System. Civil Beat.

Three Hawaii colleges have committed to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2013 Food Recovery Challenge to further reduce food waste on campuses. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i is home to over 12,000 native plant species, with 90% found nowhere else in the world. Hundreds of these plants are endangered and teeter on the brink of extinction. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for June 24. Associated Press.

Oahu

A 70-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman died this weekend after separate falls from unsanctioned hiking trails on Oahu, and several other hikers were rescued. Star-Advertiser.

It’s the number one complaint by tourists who come to Oahu — the homeless situation in Waikiki. The visitor industry is so important to our state’s economy that tourism officials are now working with the city and state to find a solution. KHON2.

The Royal Order of Kamehameha I will bestow the order of Honorary Alii Knight Companion, 7th degree, on Roman Catholic Bishop Larry Silva, in an investiture ceremony, 6 p.m., June 25, in the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace in downtown Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

University of Hawaii at Hilo administrators maintain that their campus will be ready to receive a new crop of students in a new dorm building this fall, despite an ongoing investigation into UH’s procurement process for capitol improvement projects. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Work on the 1.8-meter Pan-STARRS 2 telescope atop Haleakala that will focus on near-Earth objects "has been going very well," with the telescope expected to be operational next month. Maui News.

Nearly one in four bridges in Maui County is structurally deficient and in need of significant repairs or replacement, according to a recent study by Transportation for America. Maui News.

Changes in honey-production regulations, signed into law by Gov. Neil Abercrombie last week, will benefit home-based, uncertified honey producers, also referred to by local beekeepers as the "renegade honey guys," according to a handful of Maui beekeepers. Maui News.

Police Chief Gary Yabuta issued a statement Friday afternoon, responding to an American Civil Liberties Union lawsuit alleging that enforcement of Maui County's sign ordinances violates the public's constitutional right to free speech. Maui News.

A state budget bill, signed into law this week, significantly increases funding for forest protection in Hawaiʻi, state officials said. Maui Now.

Kauai

The administration signed a contract Wednesday morning for a Lihue Bypass Road feasibility study, only to take a lashing from some members of the Kauai County Council in the afternoon for putting money down on a project they believe will likely never go through. Garden Island.

New changes will soon be coming to Kauai High School following the release of $134.7 million in capital improvement projects identified by legislators as key projects needed to stand up the state’s economy and aging public schools. Garden Island.

Lanai

Oracle Corp. CEO and Lanai majority owner Larry Ellison is bringing his love of tennis to the Pineapple Isle with plans to build a 50-acre tennis academy in town, Pacific Business News has learned.

Molokai

Larry Helm, a well-known native Hawaiian activist, former political candidate and military veteran on the island of Molokai, has died after a battle with cancer. Hawaii Reporter.