Legislative panel beats on Ige budget, political neophyte named to House seat, Hirono to meet ‘Mad Dog’ Mattis, Ige campaign manager steps down to be considered for judgeship, coffee berry borer reaches Maui, OHA CEO Crabbe vows to keep job, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

House Finance, Senate Ways and Means on Ige budget 01/05/17 courtesy House Majority

Gov. David Ige’s proposed budget came under attack Thursday during its first public vetting of the year, with House Finance Committee Chairwoman Sylvia Luke calling it “borderline schizophrenic.” Star-Advertiser.

The chair of the House Finance Committee is so disappointed with the governor’s budget that she suggested the administration withdraw it and start over. Civil Beat.

During a Thursday briefing to the Legislature, the Council on Revenues said that despite a 3.3 percent increase in visitor arrivals, visitor spending in Hawaii is up only 1.3 percent, which could be a factor in the slower growth in tax revenue. Pacific Business News.

State lawmaker pushes for taxing online sales. KITV.

House Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke says someone in the leadership of the public employees pension fund should resign after the fund posted what she called a “pathetic” investment return of negative 1 percent during the fiscal year that ended June 30. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has still not found a chief labor negotiator even though he is involved in sensitive talks with six public-sector unions. Civil Beat.

Dean Nishina is officially serving as the state consumer advocate. Star-Advertiser.

Dean Nishina, a former auditor and financial consultant for Arthur Andersen & Co. LLP, has been tapped as the executive director for the Hawaii state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' Division of Consumer Advocacy, the state said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

One state agency is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to beef up security. These changes will be made ahead of the opening of medical marijuana dispensaries across the state. KHON2.

Attorney Keith Hiraoka has stepped down from his post as campaign manager for Gov. David Ige in an attempt to mitigate any conflicts of interest as he seeks a judgeship on the Intermediate Court of Appeals. Star-Advertiser.

The Judicial Selection Commission on Wednesday released a list of nominees for a vacancy on Hawaii’s Intermediate Court of Appeals. Civil Beat.

What Would ‘Mad Dog’ Mattis Mean For Military-Heavy Hawaii? Former Marine Gen. James Mattis is likely headed for confirmation as defense secretary. He meets Friday with Sen. Mazie Hirono. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund — which helps pay for funeral, medical and other crime victims’ costs — has received its largest single payment of $150,000 as the result of a settlement in a corporate tax case. Star-Advertiser.

As traditional commercial fishing is threatening fish populations worldwide, U.S. officials are working on a plan to expand fish farming into federal waters around the Pacific Ocean. Associated Press.

Teachers association leader questions strategic plan. HSTA says three-year outline doesn’t address ways to fix education. Garden Island.

The man who thwarted an effort to hold an election for Native Hawaiians is the newest trustee of the public agency that provided $2.6 million for the failed self-governance vote. Kelii Akina was elected in November as an at-large Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee, unseating Haunani Apoliona, who was a trustee since 1996. Associated Press.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees, aligned under new leadership, has decided to enter into negotiations to buy out the contract of CEO Kamana‘opono Crabbe. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii regulators have rejected a plan by Hawaiian Electric Co. and AES Hawaii to expand the state’s only coal-run electricity generation plant. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is looking for developers to build wind projects on Oahu before a federal tax credit for wind power expires in 2019. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Planning Commission has approved an amendment to the city’s land-use law that spells out how much affordable housing developers must provide if they want to be eligible for a special temporary permit that provides height and density advantages for building near planned rail stations. Civil Beat.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has closed on two construction loans totaling more than $372 million for the development of its Aeo and Ke Kilohana mixed-use condominium high-rise tower projects currently underway at its 60-acre Ward Village master-planned community in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako. Pacific Business News.

City officials say they believe about 137,400 gallons of untreated sewage spilled out of a broken force main pipe and onto vacant land near the Ko Olina Golf Course Monday and Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s chief of police will get the chance to address members of the Honolulu Police Commission when it meets Friday. KHON2.

The Honolulu Police Commission will hold a closed-door executive session on Friday to determine the future of police chief Louis Kealoha with the Honolulu Police Department. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Chris Todd will become the newest — and one of the youngest — members of the state Legislature after being appointed Thursday to replace Rep. Clift Tsuji, who died Nov. 15. Tribune-Herald.

Governor Ige has appointed Chris Todd to fill late Rep. Clift Tsuji’s seat at the State House. He was chosen from a list of three Democratic Party candidates. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige has tapped Chris Todd to replace the late Rep. Clift Tsuji in the state House of Representatives representing Hilo, following a party selection process that raised questions about potential improprieties. Star-Advertiser.

With the unanimous confirmation Thursday of seven department heads, the County Council gave its stamp of approval to the majority of Mayor Harry Kim’s new Cabinet. West Hawaii Today.

Work is underway on the final phases of the Komohana Street reconstruction project, which now will extend through mid-January. Tribune-Herald.

Kona coffee growers say this year’s harvest is mostly in, and it’s smaller than usual, but with more high-quality beans that fetch higher prices. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The Maui County Council may have ironed out its main leadership issues Monday, but with a public hearing on standing committees still to come, the important work of vetting new bills cannot begin yet. Maui News.

The coffee berry borer was detected in December 2016 on a coffee farm in Kīpahulu on Maui. Maui Now.

State agriculture officials reported Thursday that they had confirmed the presence of the coffee berry borer at two locations on the Hana side of Maui, in Kipahulu, directly across the channel from Hawi. Hawaii News Now.

Twenty-eight lots across 86 acres near the Maui Motorsports Park in Pulehunui in Maui’s only heavy industrial zoned subdivision hit the market Tuesday, island real estate officials said. Maui News.

Kauai

State considering plan to build a $500K crossing for Hanakapiai Stream. Garden Island.

Fishing limits could raise ahi prices, Superferry redux, theft charges for Maui employee who built kitchen, coffee picker shortage, more physical exams for schoolkids, Gorak PUC conflict investigated, Royal Hawaiian Gold Club must clean up, sugar plantation equipment heads to auction, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Suisan Fish Market

While prices for ahi are relatively stable this holiday season, some say they could rise next year as fishing limits tighten. Hawaii News Now.

Superferry dreams face cost, public opinion hurdles. Lawmakers approved $50,000 in May to study a possible inter-island ferry, and the state Department of Transportation received a $500,000 grant from the federal Maritime Administration to hire consultants to explore potential routes and boats. Associated Press.

It’s been almost 10 years since protesters rallied against the Superferry in Nawiliwili, but some Kauai residents have their reservations and optimisms about an interisland ferry system that may reemerge, pending a state study. Garden Island.

A new law will take effect this upcoming school year that will double the number of physical examinations Hawaii students will need to get in order to keep attending public school. KHON2.

Two state lawmakers are raising red flags over the legal work Tom Gorak was doing on the side while serving full-time as general counsel of the state Public Utilities Commission. Civil Beat.

Newly elected U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has decided to get closer to her constituents by moving out of the federal building complex across from Honolulu Harbor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii No. 8 For Electoral Integrity. The integrity of America’s electoral system lags far behind other Western democracies, according to a new report. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige gave his support Thursday to two young men who want to make the world a better place. Andrew Tisba and Manuel Frederick of Let’s All Connect say they are on a journey to visit all 50 states. Civil Beat.

A crowd of mostly tourists cheered as President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle arrived at a Waikiki restaurant Thursday night. Associated Press.

Oahu

The owners of the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club must provide bathrooms, parking and trash receptacles for hikers of Maunawili Falls Trail or face losing their permit to operate the 18-hole course, the city said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A community association that owns the private marina in Hawaii Kai wants to more permanently inhibit sand from migrating off Portlock Beach into the boat entry channel by constructing a $2 million rock groin. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu building that houses the now-infamous restaurant that posted a sign in its window saying that voters of President-Elect Donald Trump couldn't eat there is up for sale, the broker handling the sale confirmed to Pacific Business News Thursday.

Hawaii

A bumper crop is usually good news for Big Island coffee farmers, but this year, many are facing a severe shortage of pickers. Businesses in both Kona and Kau are losing thousands of dollars. Hawaii News Now.

This past July, Governor David Ige signed a new law that creates a 10-year marine reserve across a three and a half mile stretch of coastline in North Kona. That came as a huge relief to the community leaders and residents in the area who have been fighting to protect the shoreline and its resources for decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tamar Elias, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientist, will present “Volcanic Air Pollution: The What, Where, and How of Vog in Hawaii” at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 at Hawaii Preparatory Academy’s Gates Performing Arts Center on the Upper Campus. The event is free and open to the public. West Hawaii Today.

A 17.73-pound taro corm grown by a group of farmers and cultural practitioners is being submitted to Guinness World Records. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Theft charges have been filed against a former Maui county employee accused of building a fancy kitchen on the taxpayers’ dime, without permission. KHON2.

A 59-year-old former Maui County Public Works district supervisor was charged with second-degree theft Tuesday, police records show. Maui News.

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co.’s 36,000-acre plantation on Maui, which closed last week and effectively ended the era of the sugar industry in Hawaii, is auctioning off its equipment and items, Pacific Business News has learned.

The state Real Estate Commission will hold its standing committee meetings on Maui in January and will take comments from residents on current and future programs. Maui News.

Kauai

The entrance to the Princeville at Hanalei resort community will get a new Hawaiian landscaped feature as well as rebuilt roads under projects announced by Princeville Development Company’s president and CEO, Jeff Stone. Garden Island.

Federal government to study Hawaii fish populations, Thirty Meter Telescope attorney quits, Native Hawaiians discuss sovereignty, ethics violation filed against Maui County Council member, mongoose captured on Kauai, Ige wants to change pension plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Oscar Elton Sette off Maui in 2004, courtesy NOAA

Federal officials are embarking on a study of seven Hawaii fish species to assess the overall health of their populations. Associated Press.

State and federal fishery officials have struggled for decades to determine how many deep-sea bottomfish like onaga and opakapaka are in Hawaiian waters, basing stock assessments on the amount of groupers and snappers caught by commercial fishermen. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige’s administration plans to propose changes in the public employees pension fund next year as part of a larger effort to reduce the unfunded liabilities in the pension and health funds. Star-Advertiser.

The latest batch of WikiLeaks references Hawaii’s own Tulsi Gabbard. Civil Beat.

President Obama's recent decision to support a unified Native Hawaiian government is just one of the hot button issues on the discussion table at this week's annual Native Hawaiian Convention in Waikiki. KITV.

Hawaii’s veterans are receiving health care more promptly than in the past, but the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs continues to struggle to hire and retain enough medical staff to meet the burgeoning need for services, according to a recent government report. Civil Beat.

The Kaiser Permanente Fit Rewards program is offering Kaiser Permanente members a chance to earn a free gym membership in 2017. The program creates a financial incentive for members to meet their health and fitness goals for the year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell formally thanked landlords who accepted some 860 homeless military veterans on Oahu as tenants in the past 18 months, but pushed them on Tuesday for even more help to rescue remaining homeless former service members. Star-Advertiser.

Forensic evidence collected from potentially hundreds of sexual assault victims may have been rendered inadmissible in court because the Sex Abuse Treatment Center in Honolulu has kept evidence kits at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children rather than sending them to a law enforcement lab for storing. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers and advocates expressed outrage Tuesday after learning that HPD failed to disclose it's destroyed more than 1,000 untested sex assault evidence kits since 1992. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Office of Environmental Quality Control has extended the commenting period for the state’s plan to build a replacement facility for the crumbling Oahu Community Correctional Center. Civil Beat.

About 25 personal memorials have been placed on land called sacred in Waianae and the state is having them removed by the end of the year. The Ku’ilioloa Heiau at Kane’ilio Point at Poka’i Bay once served as a school of navigation and a blessing site for voyagers. Hawaii News Now.

Ala Moana Center is taking a closer look at all its railings in the wake of a deadly fall. KHON2.

A video camera was found inside a staff-only restroom at Kapolei Middle School, according to the Hawaii Department of Education. KITV.

Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach, a new hotel brand for the isles, is recruiting about 100 workers in preparation for its Dec. 8 opening in the former Waikiki Trade Center office building. Star-Advertiser.

A three-level suite at The Pinnacle is to be auctioned by Heritage Luxury Real Estate Auctions on Oct. 18. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The six original petitioners in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case will represent themselves in hearings that start next week after their attorney withdrew as counsel, citing scheduling conflicts. Tribune-Herald.

The case against the Thirty Meter Telescope suffered a setback after the attorney representing the Mauna Kea Hui petitioners walked away a week before the contested case hearing is set to begin. Star-Advertiser.

After almost 30 years of government work, Hilo County Councilman Dennis “Fresh” Onishi is ready to start his own business once he leaves the council in December. West Hawaii Today.

Construction has kicked off on an initial phase of a delayed affordable-housing project on Hawaii island where monthly rent for some apartments will be as low as $384. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Health announced Tuesday afternoon that the first laboratory-confirmed case of travel-related Zika virus was detected on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Kona coffee farmers say a strong crop yield is likely despite an unusually dry winter brought on by the most recent El Nino and its stabilizing influence on weather patterns over the main Hawaii Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An ethics violation claim has been filed against Maui County Council Member Don Couch over questions about his qualifications for an affordable home he and his wife purchased in Kihei while also buying a market-priced home in Waikapu in a three-month span nine years ago. Maui News.

Kauai

A young mongoose that stowed away to Kauai aboard an Aloha Air Cargo shipment from Oahu was captured at Lihue Airport on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Maluhia Road, from the Tree Tunnel to the Ala Kino’iki Road junction, will be closed on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. to allow the Department of Public Works to do tree trimming and remove dead branches. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Lana’i Culture and Heritage Center has launched a website showcasing the island’s iconic landmarks and locations through history, photos and video. Maui News.

Hawaii energy policy scrutinized, state mum on dengue cases, Schatz campaigns for Clinton, space rocket to be launched off Kauai, UH fires football coach Chow, Native Hawaiian election begins, more top government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Coffee beans on a drying floor © 2015 All Hawaii News

Heading into the 45th annual festival showcasing their trade, Kona coffee growers have a lot to celebrate. Abundant rain and an early and extensive coffee bloom have brought loads of cherry — filling drying platforms and mills with the fragrant product. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz is spending the weekend in Maine and Boston, fundraising and offering his support and advice to some grass-roots groups that are mobilizing for the presidential campaign of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Star-Advertiser.

Gov David Ige Talks About The State’s Energy Future. The state’s chief executive discusses the road map to a renewable energy revolution, the NextEra-HECO merger and hopes for affordable electricity. Civil Beat.

Political insider’s role in state energy policy is called into question. Robbie Alm has a dozen years of experience in the top management ranks of the state's largest utility, Hawaiian Electric Co ., and he has the ear of Gov. David Ige.That makes some people nervous. Star-Advertiser.

Two proclamations on homelessness from Gov. David Ige will make it possible to pump another $300,000 into programs around the islands that help people. Catholic Charities and Helping Hands will now divide the additional $300,000 from Ige's proclamations and can use it to help both homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless. Star-Advertiser.

Virgin America, named the best in U.S. air travel for eight straight years by Travel + Leisure magazine, is making its inaugural flight to Honolulu from San Francisco with a new 149-seat Airbus 320 aircraft aptly named the Pineapple Express. Virgin America will expand its Hawaii service further on Dec. 3 when it begins flying between San Francisco and Kahului. Star-Advertiser.

The National Labor Relations Board issued a complaint today against Aqua-Aston Hospitality in response to five unfair labor practice charges filed by UNITE HERE Local 5 against Aqua-Aston (formerly Aston Hotels & Resorts) since July. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

As costs continue to climb, Honolulu rail remains by far the most expensive transit project per-capita being built in the U.S., a Honolulu Star-Advertiser analysis shows.

They’re public records, but the City and County of Honolulu often makes it difficult — and expensive — for the public to obtain them. The Civil Beat Law Center for the Public Interest is looking to change that with four amendments it proposed to the Honolulu Charter Commission. The Charter Commission is in the midst of assessing dozens of proposals as part of its 10-year review of the city charter. Civil Beat.

Live Christmas trees will be allowed in hotel lobbies, larger restaurants and other assembly areas this holiday season, provided those settings have sprinklers in place, under a compromise proposal reached among businesses, the Honolulu Fire Department and the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Friends of Haiku Stairs say potential hike fee revenue could be key to reopening the famous Hawaii hiking trail known as "Stairway to Heaven" and to preserve its surrounding Windward Oahu valley for the long term. Pacific Business News.

Mounting losses and dwindling attendance added up to Norm Chow's dismissal as head coach of the University of Hawaii football team. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Tom Hasslinger has been named managing editor of West Hawaii Today. Hasslinger’s primary responsibility will be working with the newspaper’s editorial department to produce compelling local content.  West Hawaii Today.

Gov. David Ige continued to offer support for building the Thirty Meter Telescope atop Mauna Kea and improving the state’s stewardship of the mountain while speaking last week at Oahu’s Windward Community College. Tribune-Herald.

A pair of prolific internet vloggers have documented their battle with an illness they believe was contracted on the Big Island during a recent visit, while the state of Hawaii investigates two confirmed cases of “locally-acquired” dengue fever on the same island. Big Island Video News.

Health officials said they cannot reveal information about the patients or where the dengue cases have been reported because the investigation into the source of the mosquito-borne disease is ongoing. Tribune-Herald.

Ballots begin going out today to the 95,000-plus Native Hawaiian voters who registered by the deadline to help choose 40 delegates to an aha, or constitutional convention. West Hawaii Today.

Operators hopeful, wary of new manta tour regulation. West Hawaii Today.

The charitable and political powerhouse Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council has turned 50, and it’s inviting the community to join the celebration. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee on Monday will consider a resolution to establish an advisory body to review a county manager form of governance. Maui News.

Maui County Council committee to discuss county manager form of government this Monday. MauiTime.

The county Department of Planning is soliciting bids from consultants to study the feasibility of using sand nourishment as a way to reduce shoreline erosion in Kahana, where seawalls stop the ocean from washing condominiums out to sea. Maui News.

Establishing a temporary "sanctuary" for the homeless, along with more development of transitional housing and workforce housing, are all part of Mayor Alan Arakawa's multimillion-dollar "Homeless Initiative." Maui News.

Maui County is considering sanctuaries as the population of homeless individuals rises faster than anywhere else in the state. Associated Press.

State airports in Hawaiʻi will implement a fee increase for parking at six facilities on Dec. 1, 2015, including fee increases at Kahului and Kapalua Airports on Maui. Maui Now.

Scott Parker, who was seeking to become one of three Maui delegates to a Native Hawaiian convention, said Friday that he is withdrawing from the Na'i Aupuni election that gets underway Sunday. Maui News.

Kauai

A Hawaii police union will file a labor board complaint if it doesn’t get final approval on a policy governing the first widespread use of body cameras in the state. The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers says a body camera policy implemented without its final approval would violate Kauai County’s contract with the union. Associated Press.

Kauai County is asking the state to incentivize competition and help make interisland travel cost less. Associated Press.

The Kauai County Council wants the state to take up what it feels is a serious, islandwide issue: expensive costs for residents to fly from one island to another. Garden Island.

Frances Nelson Hali’aalohanokekupuna Frazier known as a legendary Hawaiian language translator, “beloved auntie,” and outspoken writer of “sassy letters to the editor” died on Oct. 19. She was 101. Garden Island.

University of Hawaii officials say the state's much-delayed first space launch could be finally set for takeoff. According to the university's Space Flight Laboratory, the 55-foot "Super Strypi" rocket will be launched from Kauai's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Monday. Associated Press.

Sea turtle nesting season begins, retailers urge veto of theft bill, good news for Hawaiian language immersion schools, Kenoi aides use pCards, rules unpopular in homeless shelters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Young honu green sea turtle © 2015 All Hawaii News

Wildlife officials are asking the public to be mindful of Hawksbill and green sea turtles as they begin their 2015 nesting season along Maui beaches this month. Maui Now.

Some Hawaii retailers and industry advocacy groups are pushing back against a proposed law that nearly doubles the monetary value of goods that suspected thieves can steal before they are charged with a felony. Pacific Business News.

Yet more confirmation that housing is really, really expensive in Hawaii. The National Low Income Housing Coalition has released a report saying that folks in our state need to earn $31.61 per hour to afford a “modest” two-bedroom apartment. According to the report, that makes Hawaii more expensive than any other state, even second-place California and third-place District of Columbia. Civil Beat.

The state has agreed to fund nearly $880,000 worth of settlements on behalf of the Department of Education, including several wrongful termination cases, a lawsuit alleging mistreatment of a special education student, and compensation for 300 educational assistants stemming from a payroll dispute. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian language immersion schools received good news from lawmakers last week, as five U.S. senators introduced a measure to preserve endangered Native American languages such as olelo Hawaii. Garden Island.

Oahu

Want to Fill Up Your Homeless Shelter? Ditch Some of the Rules. Next Step shelter's lenient approach leads to a higher occupancy rate than other Oahu facilities. But some question whether that's best for the long term. Civil Beat.

The revised plan by Haseko to create a recreational lagoon rather than a marina along the makai border of its Ewa Beach property won a thumbs-up from the Honolulu Planning Commission last week. Star-Advertiser.

It has been more than a decade since the city approved the building of a cemetery in Hawaii Kai. Those plans haven't gone anywhere since then, but work has begun once again, and that has some Hawaii Kai residents concerned. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Kai residents who thought there had been a halt last year to a decade of dumping of construction debris on vacant preservation land are alarmed the landowner has resumed the practice. Star-Advertiser.

The Navy command overseeing the hospital ship involved in a mishap that damaged the USS Arizona Memorial’s dock has sent investigators to Hawaii to probe what happened. Associated Press.

Hawaii

Mayor Billy Kenoi’s executive assistants charged nearly $143,000 on their county-issued credit cards — including airfare for a local surfer, a helicopter ride for visiting dignitaries, and wine that was gifted during a trip to the state Capitol — since the start of his administration. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s announcement to open pre-clearance operations at Narita International Airport in Tokyo would help the tourism industry and bring relief to Honolulu International Airport, the Hawaii Tourism Authority says. Pacific Business News.

Kona International Airport could soon be receiving international arrivals under a plan to staff U.S. Customs officers at 10 foreign points of departure. West Hawaii Today.

This summer, Kona coffee farmers will have a new tool in the fight against coffee berry borer. Legislation was approved last year to give farmers $500,000 in subsidies for spray. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Most short-term rental home applications are approved by the county Department of Planning without a hitch, but the Maui Planning Commission denied a petition last week to convert two farm dwellings in Launiupoko into vacation rental units. Maui News.

As hundreds of people paid tribute to veterans during a Memorial Day service at the Maui Veterans Cemetery, a Hawaii National Guard official said that a $6 million cemetery expansion project will honor veterans' sacrifices even more. Associated Press.

Kauai

Starting Thursday, motorists using the intersection at Umi and Hardy streets will need to seek alternate routes and allow extra time to reach their destinations. Garden Island.

Hawaiian monk seal protection sought, agriculture home-rule battle in Legislature, Maui County bails on anti-GMO group, police reports show officers disciplined, House won't tax REITs, shipping costs to drop while strike looms, more government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian monk seal snoozes in the sun © 2015 All Hawaii News

An environmental group Thursday recommended that the federal government spend more to help prevent critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals from becoming extinct. Associated Press.

The Marine Conservation Institute is calling for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to “redouble its efforts” to conserve and recover the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Garden Island.

A tug of war over control of the agriculture industry's use of pesticides and genetically modified crops is playing out in the Legislature as lawmakers consider bills that would limit counties' regulatory abilities and create pesticide buffer zones around schools. Associated Press.

Kona coffee growers and state lawmakers are renewing their push for more accurate labeling and greater quantities of the real thing in blends of java being sold under the Kona label. West Hawaii Today.

As lava continues to flow into Pahoa, a measure that aims to give journalists better access to emergency sites continues to wend its way through the state Senate but has stalled in the House. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers consider triple-time pay for holiday retail workers. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige announced Thursday afternoon that he wants Leonard Hoshijo to be the deputy director in the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, while the top job remains unfilled. Civil Beat.

Veteran labor union official Leonard Hoshijo was nominated by Gov. David Ige Thursday to be the deputy director in the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Star-Advertiser.

House Scraps Bill to Remove Tax Break for Prime Real Estate. It’s up to Hawaii senators to decide whether to advance a bill imposing a corporate income tax on investment trusts that own lucrative properties. Civil Beat.

The House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection conducted a hearing yesterday on pesticide applications around schools and hospitals. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu, Maui and Hawaii island police officers were disciplined in a total of 110 misconduct incidents and eight officers were discharged in 2014, according to annual reports submitted to the Legislature by the four county police departments. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc., the state's largest ocean cargo transportation firm, is following the recent plunge in oil prices with a plunge of its own by reducing its fuel surcharge by a record amount. Honolulu-based Matson announced Thursday that it will reduce the charge by 7 percentage points — to 24.5 percent from 31.5 percent — effective Sunday in response to falling bunker fuel prices. Star-Advertiser.

West Coast shipping docks could shut down in the next four to 10 days, but Hawaii's air cargo companies told Pacific Business News they are prepared to add services to make up for a potential lockout.Hawaii relies on ships for more than 90 percent of incoming delivery of goods.

Opinion: The U.S. Army is largely leaving Hawaii, but Maui Rep. Kaniela Ing is the only state official happy about it. Mauitime.

Opinion: We Need to Right the Wrongs for Struggling Native Hawaiians. Hawaiians and non-Hawaiians need to come together to improve the plight of our people. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A federal oversight committee is blasting Honolulu’s rail project, calling it “alarming” and “not sufficient.” A new review looked at the rising cost of building the rail system, putting the project at $500 million to $600 million over-budget. KHON2.

Over the next four weeks, as a six-month improvement project gets underway on the popular Makapuu Trail, its mile-long path to the lighthouse will be closed on weekdays. Beginning Monday, contractors of Haron Construction Inc. will begin repair and construction work along the trail. The project is estimated to cost $2.7 million. Star-Advertiser.

Two former Honolulu Zoo directors said the nonprofit Honolulu Zoo Society is failing to help the zoo that's in dire need of financial assistance, just a year before it faces a crucial re-accreditation inspection. The society gives the zoo only about 10 percent of its annual budget in direct assistance, but the head of the group said it provides valuable support to the zoo in other ways. Hawaii News Now.

The massive fuel leak at Sand Island may have started a month before it was first reported. A report by the EPA says that Hawaii Fueling Facilities Corp. noticed a large loss of volume in its No. 2 tank back on Dec. 22, or nearly a month before it reported the leak. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell and officials from the city’s Department of Planning and Permitting will host a public workshop on Tuesday, February 10 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to discuss the renovation of the Neal S. Blaisdell Center. Civil Beat.

Nearly two dozen University of Hawaii-Manoa degree programs that faced possible closure for producing few graduates have been spared from the chopping block — for now. The state House Higher Education Committee on Thursday tabled House Bill 555, which proposed shutting down small undergraduate programs that persistently award fewer than 10 degrees a year. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu police officer accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend used his position of authority to intimidate her into keeping silent about his ongoing abuse, the victim told the Hono­lulu Star-Advertiser on Thursday.

Hawaii

A divided County Council voted Wednesday evening not to endorse a non-binding resolution asking the county’s attorneys to file a lawsuit against Puna Geothermal Venture to prevent it from drilling a new well at night. Tribune-Herald.

Three Hawaii Police Department officers were fired last year and 14 suspended for misconduct ranging from improperly filing reports to not arresting a suspect, according to an annual report submitted recently to the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Dozens of security officers at Kona International Airport will hold a vote today on whether to join a union. West Hawaii Today.

A leak in the June 27 lava flow’s tube system near Pu‘u ‘O‘o is helping to reduce activity at its farthest edge. Tribune-Herald.

The number of single-family homes on Hawaii's Big Island jumped 30 percent in January, when compared with the same month the year before, while the median price rose 9 percent, according to Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui
Members of the SHAKA Movement (Sustainable Hawaiian Agriculture for the Keiki and the ‘Āina) are expressing outrage at a recent Maui County decision to take “no position” on defending the moratorium on GMO cultivation in Maui County. Maui Now.

John D. Kim was recommended for reappointment as Maui County's prosecuting attorney on Wednesday, following a five-hour meeting of the Maui County Council Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs committee conducted mostly behind closed doors. Maui News.

South Maui residents will get to keep their recycling bins while the county deliberates whether or not it should cease, continue or expand its pilot "3 Can Plan." Maui News.

A California engineer and developer, who has sought to build hydropower facilities on Maui in the past, is trying again with a unique seawater project on the south side of the island. Maui News.

Kauai

Developers seeking to rebuild the historic Coco Palms Resort will have to do a little extra legwork before any ground is broken. Kauai County Historic Preservation Review Commissioners on Thursday gave their unanimous stamp of approval to current plans by Coco Palms Hui LLC to redevelop, restore and repair the Wailua hotel, which has been shuttered since Hurricane Iniki buffeted the island in 1992. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. recently returned from a trip to Washington D.C., where he attended the 83rd winter meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. While there, the mayor met with Hawaii’s congressional delegation and other key contacts, and attended the State of the Union event. Garden Island.

The median price of a condominium on Kauai rose 39 percent in January on fewer sales, while sales of single-family homes increased by 65 percent, according to the Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Ebola unlikely for Honolulu patient, Star-Advertiser parent buys Big Isle newspapers, Abercrombie supporter Caldwell switches allegiance to Ige, state road turned over to county as lava advances, Hawaii coffee labeling at issue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Red coffee cherry © 2014 All Hawaii News

A Hawaii County Council committee reached an agreement on a proposed resolution that’s being touted as a way to encourage truth in labeling on coffee packages here. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has been lending his support to fellow Democrats he’d like to see win this November, namely state Sen. David Ige in his bid for governor and state Rep. Mark Takai in his run for Congress. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has spent at least $142,290 on its campaign to discourage Hawaii voters from approving a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow the state to spend public money on private preschool programs, according to publicly available documents. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Thursday a patient isolated in a Honolulu hospital does not appear to have symptoms consistent with the Ebola virus, Hawaii News Now has learned.

A person admitted to a Honolulu hospital was isolated because of the possibility that the patient contracted the Ebola virus, state Department of Health officials confirmed Wednesday afternoon. Health officials declined to provide details about the identity of the person, the symptoms or the hospital, citing federal privacy laws, but the Honolulu Star-Advertiser has learned that the patient is male and is at the Queen's Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

While the chances of someone spreading the Ebola virus while on a plane are low,airport officials tell us they still have procedures in place for Ebola as well as other infectious diseases. KHON2.

Wahiawa General Hospital is cutting the equivalent of 100 full-time positions amid claims that it owes University of Hawaii medical school physicians $800,000 in back pay. Star-Advertiser.

An Ewa developer being sued by home buyers unhappy that the company never built a promised marina is now asking the court to prohibit the plaintiffs from releasing additional information to the press about the project. Civil Beat.

A plan to redevelop most of the Ward Warehouse retail center in Kakaako with two high-rise condominiums received mostly positive public testimony at a state hearing Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed an executive order Wednesday granting Hawaii County its portion of Chain of Craters Road. Tribune-Herald.

The owner of Hawaii's largest newspaper bought two daily publications on Hawaii's Big Island and several newspapers in Washington state. Oahu Publications, which owns the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, said Wednesday it is buying West Hawaii Today and the Hawaii Tribune-Herald from Las Vegas-based Stephens Media. Associated Press.

The owner of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser is expanding by purchasing the two Hawaii island newspapers. Oahu Publications Inc. announced Wednesday that it has agreed to acquire the Hawaii Tribune-Herald and West Hawaii Today from Las Vegas-based Stephens Media LLC. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s parent company, Oahu Publications Inc., is expanding its reach over Hawaii media. OPI President Dennis Francis announced Wednesday that the company is buying both Big Island daily newspapers, the Hawaii Tribune-Herald and West Hawaii Today, for an undisclosed amount from Stephens Media, based in Las Vegas. Civil Beat.

Oahu Publications Inc. announced today that it has agreed to acquire the Hawaii Tribune-Herald and West Hawaii Today on Hawaii Island from Las Vegas-based Stephens Media LLC. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A controversial change in Hawaii Administrative Rules that would require the replacement of cesspools with septic systems upon the sale of properties will receive a hearing this month on Maui and Molokai. Maui News

A unique experience in Hawaiian culture is nestled in the deep reaches of Waiheʻe Valley where the Maui Hawaiian Village hosts tours and demonstrations in authentic food preparation, clothing design and shelter construction. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hearing Friday on proposed fishing rules for Haena. Garden Island.

Hawaii gets homeless tips from New York as Honolulu mayor signs strict new measures, Department of Education struggles with spending cuts, elections officials plan for lava flow, Health Department hears water quality concerns, Molokai dispute over outsiders, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu homeless © 2014 All Hawaii News

The Hawai’i Interagency Council on Homelessness brought trainers in from New York to help with the state-wide implementation of Housing First.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Moments before signing into law a bill making it illegal for people to sit or lie on Waikiki sidewalks, Hono­lulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Tuesday he is leaning toward supporting a separate proposal that would apply the same ban in business districts of six other Oahu neighborhoods. Star-Advertiser.

© 2014 All Hawaii News

Three bills aimed at combating a growing and complex homelessness issue on Oahu were signed into law Tuesday and will go into effect immediately. Hawaii News Now.

Three new bills were signed into law Tuesday, and some are expecting the new measures to make a big difference with Hawaii's homeless problems. KITV4.

Opinion: New houseless bills won’t help. The city's “compassionate disruption” strategy does more to hide the houseless problem from tourists than it does actually solve the underlying problems that lead to houselessness. Hawaii Independent.

After struggling at multiple meetings over how to reduce the Department of Education's operating budget by $25 million, the state school board Tuesday approved wide-ranging spending restrictions that will touch everything from special-education positions and athletics programs to per-pupil spending and bus transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann has raised thousands of dollars in his bid for governor, but he has more debt than any of his competitors. Civil Beat.

Should We Raise the Retirement Age for Judges and Justices? The question is one of five constitutional amendments before Hawaii voters Nov. 4. Others address disclosing the names of judicial nominees and qualifying for special purpose revenue bonds. Civil Beat.

A psychiatric technician told a state Senate investigative panel Tuesday that his supervisor threatened to fire him after he made public comments about unsafe working conditions at the Hawaii State Hospital, but the supervisor said the employee "got mixed up." Star-Advertiser.

As the state Department of Health works on the first update to its water quality plan since 1990, most people commenting during a public meeting Tuesday were concerned about a single aspect of the multifaceted plan — the impact of wastewater on water quality and what should be done about it. West Hawaii Today.

Cesspools will have to be converted to septic tanks - at a cost estimated at more than $10,000 - within 180 days of the sale of residential properties if proposed revisions to the state Department of Health administrative rules are accepted by the governor. Maui News.

Hawaii vets have experienced some of the longest waiting times in the nation before they can get in to see a primary care doctor — 145 days was the average although veterans officials have recently said that initial wait time has come down considerably. Civil Beat.

Alan Oshima, the incoming head of Hawaiian Electric Co., will be a community-focused leader, and plans to be pounding the pavement meeting and working with the stakeholders and community members, much like former HECO Executive Vice President Robbie Alm did, before he retired last year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A former civilian defense contractor is being sentenced for divulging military secrets to his Chinese girlfriend and keeping classified documents at his suburban Honolulu home. Benjamin Bishop will be sentenced in federal court on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

September marks the fourth month in a row that Oahu residential customers will need to put a little extra toward their electricity bills. The bill this month for a typical household using 600 kilowatt-hours went up from August by 78 cents to $218.96, according to data released this week by Hawaiian Electric Cos., the state's largest utility provider with service to Oahu, Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County and state election workers are preparing for the possibility that voting could again be disrupted in lower Puna as a lava flow continues to advance toward populated areas. Tribune-Herald.

While residents of the Kaohe Homesteads subdivision may be spared by the June 27 lava flow from Kilauea Volcano, a helicopter overflight makes one thing clear: If the lava doesn't stop now, it's headed directly toward Highway 130. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island coffee farmers offered split opinions Tuesday afternoon on a pair of resolutions that call on the state Legislature to enact “truth in labeling” laws regarding the labeling of coffee blends. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has nominated former Hilo County Councilman Donald Ikeda to the Windward Planning Commission. Ikeda, 73, is unabashedly pro-growth, a stance he explained to the County Council Planning Committee during his confirmation hearing Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

What would the completion of the new Hilo High School gymnasium be without another delay? On Saturday, Sept. 13, the school community was set to recognize the grand opening of the long-anticipated facility. But with five days to go, those plans were put on hold. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A judge’s ruling allows Maui County to print ballots that ask voters about a proposed moratorium on genetically engineered crops. Monday’s decision dissolves a temporary restraining order after those who support genetically modified organisms sued to remove the measure. Associated Press.

With 2nd Circuit Judge Rhonda Loo dissolving a temporary restraining order Monday, an initiative proposing a genetically engineered organism farming moratorium can remain on the Nov. 4 election ballot. Maui News.

HGEA Chief Shares Views on Hospital Financial Crisis. Randy Perreira: “It’s about the money. Maui Weekly.

Kauai

Top County of Kauai officials say something must be done to correct current policies that allow some lower ranking employees, particularly those within the Kauai police and fire departments, to earn more than department heads. Garden Island.

Retired auto dealer James Pflueger was scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday, Sept. 17 for recklessly causing the deaths of 7 people when his Ka Loko dam breached on March 14, 2006. However, the sentencing will be delayed and is now scheduled for Oct. 15 at 8:30 a.m. in Kauai’s Fifth Circuit Court. Hawaii Reporter.

News that retired Oahu car dealer James Pflueger sold his Kilauea property has long time litigants cheering that a decade of fighting may be coming to an end. Garden Island.

Molokai

A confrontation that turned ugly in waters off Molokai is now in the hands of the Maui Prosecutor. The incident happened in May and came to light in a story you only saw on KHON2 News. According to the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), the fight involved residents from Molokai and divers from Honolulu.

Hawaii reapportionment upheld, federal judges oppose Honolulu rail route, race becomes issue in Deedy trial, Schatz and Hanabusa raise campaign cash, roving state reps get free trips, police raise to cost millions, Kauai missile range greets new commander, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission’s justification in redrawing legislative districts so Hawaii Island received a fourth Senate seat embodied “rational, legitimate and substantial state policies,” a federal court panel said Thursday in dismissing a lawsuit challenging the new maps’ constitutionality. West Hawaii Today.

A federal three-judge panel has ruled in favor of the reapportionment plan Hawaii used during the most recent general election. Associated Press.

The 2012 reapportionment and redistricting plan does not violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution, a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court said in upholding its previous decision to deny an injunction sought by a group of voters that challenged the plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii does not have to count some 108,000 “nonpermanent residents" — mostly students and military — when drawing the boundaries of state districts, according to a federal court order issued today. Civil Beat.

A typhoon is barreling toward Taiwan where a group of Hawaii residents are visiting this week. Governor Neil Abercrombie was on that tour, but cut his trip short and raced home a day earlier to miss the storm. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa opened her Democratic primary campaign against U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz with $500,000 in fundraising, her campaign announced Thursday, well below the mark set by Schatz. Star-Advertiser.

Gift disclosure statements filed last month by two state lawmakers revealed an unexpected and intriguing donor from half a world away: The Republic of Azerbaijan. The thriving oil-fueled nation just north of Iran flew Reps. Rida Cabanilla and Mark Takai halfway across the world for the U.S.-Azerbaijan Convention in May. Civil Beat.

State employees and legislators receiving free golf perks from companies that do business with the state have caught the attention of the Hawaii Ethics Commission. Associated Press.

CNBC has released its report America's Top States for Doing Business 2013. No surprise to business owners in Hawaii that the 50th state came in dead last in the annual ranking and is considered the worst place to do business in the country. Hawaii Reporter.

Occupancy dipped a little at Hawaii hotels in May, which hoteliers say will probably be their worst-performing month of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels experienced double-digit increases in occupancy during the week of July 4 when compared to the same week last year, while occupancy changes were mixed across the four major islands, according to the latest report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Hiroshima Still Echoes in Hawaii Nearly 70 Years After Atomic Bomb Blast. Civil Beat.

State roundup for July 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

The federal District Court in Hawaii took renewed aim this week at the planned route for the city's rail line, saying it fails to meet the $5.26 billion project's stated purpose by ending at Ala Moana Center — a shopping mall — instead of the University of Hawaii's Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway has blasted the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s decision to run the proposed rail transit route to Ala Moana Center and urged the agency to reconsider an alternate route that would include a tunnel under Beretania Street. Pacific Business News.

All 11 of Hawaii’s federal judges have submitted a letter to The Federal Transit Administration and the city’s Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation that opponents of the city’s elevated steel rail project are calling a “bombshell” and “unprecedented.” Hawaii Reporter.

In a time of tight budgets, a new Hawaii police union contract will cost the City and County of Honolulu an additional $200 million over the next four years, according to a memo Mayor Kirk Caldwell sent to the city council earlier this week. Civil Beat.

An unanticipated expense in the arbitrated four-year contract awarded the police officers union will cost Oahu taxpayers about 36 percent more than city officials had originally anticipated. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecution raises race as issue in Deedy trial. Hawaii News Now.

Racial overtones surfaced during State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial Thursday with testimony from a McDonald's restaurant customer who supposedly was racially harassed and a fellow agent who testified that he told Deedy some "locals" don't like mainlanders. Star-Advertiser.

Audit of UH Culinary Arts programs uncovers lax accounting, oversight of food inventory. KITV4.

Hawaii

The USDA will spend $1 million to combat coffee berry borer on Hawaii Island, officials said Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii island coffee farmers are getting a $1 million boost from the federal government to help in their fight against the coffee berry borer, an invasive species that is "devastating" their operations. Star-Advertiser.

A spokesman for Mayor Billy Kenoi said the county will “have to find the money within the current year’s budget” to fund raises for police officers. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Human Services has suspended the operating license of a Kailua-Kona day care center for the second time this year, the state announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

There's been lots of discussion throughout the state about the need to have more farmers and to have more of our food grown right here at home. On Hawaii Island, there's a program to develop new farmers--and they're looking for candidates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hilo nurse honored for efforts to curb infections. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Many of Maui's nonprofit social and human service agencies are facing uncertainty as they move into the fifth month of the federal budget cutbacks--known as "sequestration"--that went into affect on March 1. Maui Weekly.

Both Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company on Maui, and Monsanto Company on Molokaʻi were cited by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean Air Branch after the agency received dust complaints, officials said. Maui Now.

Mayor Alan Arakawa recently visited Hangzhou, China, capital of eastern China's Zhejiang Province, where he attended the Second Annual World Cultural Forum from May 17 to 19. Maui Weekly.

After a morning of presiding over court cases, 2nd Circuit Judge Richard Bissen walked across the street from the courthouse to his doctor's office for his regular checkup. Just hours later, after undergoing an electrocardiogram at the doctor's office and being sent to Maui Memorial Medical Center for more testing to examine his heart activity, Bissen was taken to the operating room for emergency heart surgery. Maui News.

Kauai

In grand style, the Pacific Missile Range Facility welcomed its new commander — and bid farewell to his predecessor — Thursday inside the facility’s base operations hangar. Garden Island.

The three defendants named in the civil rights lawsuit filed by Kauai County Councilman Tim Bynum have filed motions to dismiss the case this week, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Attorneys Kyle Smith and Gerard Jervis, who represent the Kauai’s Westside community in an ongoing lawsuit against Pioneer Hi-Bred International, have compiled a list of chemicals used by the company. They will disclose the information during a public meeting beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at Waimea Canyon Middle School. Garden Island.

A few hours after being posted online Wednesday afternoon, the “Save Coco Palms” petition was pulled without explanation. Garden Island.

Molokai

A year after a fire destroyed Hotel Molokai’s kitchen , Hula Shores restaurant and bar is one step closer to repairing and reopening its dining facilities. Hotel Molokai was approved for repairs at the June 26 Molokai Planning Commission meeting, securing their ability to begin construction soon. Molokai Dispatch.

Kahoolawe

Funds for the cleanup and restoration of Kahoolawe are expected to run out in 2016, yet only 13 percent of the job has been done, according to a report issued Thursday by the state legislative auditor. Star-Advertiser.