Showing posts with label Louis Kealoha. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Louis Kealoha. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Schools superintendent $250k salary cap may be eliminated, Hawaii Republicans clinch Trump nomination, Coco Palms Resort cleared to rebuild, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Schools superintendent salary cap bill advances. A proposal to remove the $250,000 salary cap for the state superintendent of Hawaii’s public schools and allow the amount to be set by the state Board of Education passed out of a divided state House Education Committee on Monday, despite opposition via dozens of pieces of testimony and “no” votes by two former teachers on the committee. Star-Advertiser.

Trump clinches nominations over other candidates in Hawaii’s Republican presidential caucus.
Preliminary results revealed that Former President Donald Trump is in the lead as the Republican presidential nominee with 3,506 votes cast, which was 97% of the vote. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

More Defendants Could Stay Out Of Prison Through Expanded Electronic Monitoring Program. Smartphone technology has led to a boom in digital surveillance of pretrial and post-conviction populations nationwide, but also raised privacy and civil rights concerns. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers consider changes to state criminal record expungement process. The idea is to have the state initiate the expungement process instead of the current situation where people must submit an application and pay a fee of $35 for the first expungement, and $50 for subsequent requests. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Jury selection begins in alleged pay-to-prosecute conspiracy.
More than 70 potential jurors filled every seat in the federal courtroom Tuesday where former Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro, businessman Dennis Mitsunaga and others face charges that they conspired to bribe Kaneshiro with campaign contributions to prosecute a former Mitsunaga employee. Star-Advertiser.

Disgraced former HPD Chief wants out of prison early.
  Disgraced former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha filed a petition to reduce his sentence by 16 months following a change in federal sentencing guidelines. KHON2.

Kailua Residents Decry Sad State Of Historic City-Owned Estate. A classic kamaaina beachside home is falling into decay, and Kailua residents are organizing to try to preserve it. Civil Beat.

Fishpond purchase gives Waipā community protection from development. Halulu Fishpond, which sits on a quarter-acre of land along Hanalei Bay, is now the property of the Waipā Foundation.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

New Hawaiian Homes Projects Planned On Big Island. During a March 11th, 2024 informational briefing on the ACT 279 Working Group, Hawaiian Homes chair Kali Watson gave an update on various projects under consideration, including many on the island of Hawaiʻi. Big Island Video News.

Richardson’s gets a face-lift: Park improvements, renovated ocean center unveiled. Richardson Ocean Park and Center is open and fully accessible to the public after 19 months of construction. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Pololū stewardship efforts provide catalyst for statewide expansion. A sensitive sites stewardship program in Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island has become a model for communities across the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Nearly 120,000 acres set aside on Hawaiʻi Island to protect endangered species. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated 119,326 acres of federal, state, private and public lands as a critical habitat for 12 endangered species. Hawaii Public Radio.

Assessment details plans for old Hilo hospital renovations. A plan to renovate the old Hilo Memorial Hospital continues apace after a draft environmental assessment for the project was published last week. Tribune-Herald.

Waikoloa Village closer to getting a roundabout. A new traffic roundabout in Waikoloa Village is one step closer to becoming a reality after Friday’s release of a draft environmental assessment with an anticipated finding of no significant impact. West Hawaii Today.

Hundreds Of Hawaii Island Residents Protest Proposed Housing Project In Punaluu. A battle is brewing on the Big Island over a proposed development in Punaluu, a stretch of black sand beach and ponds along the rugged Kau coastline that’s popular among locals, tourists, fishermen and many others. Civil Beat.

Maui

Lahaina Wildfire Victims Fund Has 17 Applicants So Far. It's still not clear how much information about the fund or its applicants will be made public although settlements will be filed in court. Civil Beat.

Over 1,000 Maui fire survivors planning to sue Kamehameha Schools, state and utility companies. The attorneys for more than 1,000 Maui fire survivors believe they know exactly where the first flames broke out. They also explained who they think shares the blame. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Council Member Johnson touts county’s new law promoting reclaimed and recycled water. Ordinance 5592 also establishes the county Water Use and Development Plan as a guiding document for the development of reclaimed water infrastructure and alternative water sources, encouraging the departments of water supply and environmental management to collaborate in maximizing efficient use of water resources. Maui Now.

Maui’s Gladys Baisa remembered as a trailblazer, pioneer for women leaders. Former Maui County Council Chair Gladys Baisa left a legacy of leadership in Maui County government and with Maui Economic Opportunity Inc., which she led as chief executive officer from 1983 to 2005. She died Monday morning. She was 83. Maui Now.

Mixed feelings: Old Lahaina Lūʻau employees ready to make new memories as it reopens. Sitting between scorched Lahaina Town and unscathed Lahaina Canary Mall, the Old Lahaina Lūʻau reopens to tourism for its first time since the Aug. 8 wildfire. Maui Now.

Kauai

Regulators reject petition to revoke permits to rebuild Kauai's Coco Palms Resort. The Kauai Planning Commission rejected a petition Tuesday from a group of residents who were asking the commission to revoke permits issued to the owners of the Coco Palms Resort property. KITV4. KHON2.

Nearly $17M in federal funding headed to Garden Isle. Nearly $17 million in federal dollars is heading to Kaua‘i to fund a variety of projects ranging from the Kauaʻi War Memorial Convention Hall, an educational center at the Kawai‘ele State Waterbird Sanctuary, affordable housing and a fern propagation lab at the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Kauai Now.

Waimea Public Library gets $10,000 national grant. The Waimea branch of the Hawai‘i State Public Library System, better known to people as the Waimea Public Library, has received a $10,000 grant to help better serve people with disabilities, the Library Development Services announced on Friday. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Tourist tracking app proposed, militant Hawaiian sovereignty member sentenced for threats against government officials, DOE returns millions not used for local food programs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourist tracking app could be part of Hawaii visitor management plan. Hawaii hosts about 10 million visitors a year, and they often tend to go to the same locations — so crowds and traffic can make the experience unpleasant. But lawmakers and the CNHA, which one the destination stewardship contract from the Hawaii Tourism Authority say a smart phone app could be the key. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii DOE Has Returned Millions Of Dollars That Could Have Bought Local Food.
Hawaii's congressional delegation wants to know why the money it fights for is not being used by the Department of Education. The Department of Education has blamed miscommunication as the reason it failed to use $650,000 in federal money meant to assist schools in buying local food. In 2022 the DOE handed back just over $1.1 million in federal funds allocated under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, a program designed to feed and educate children about their food. Civil Beat.

Man who threatened government officials gets 37 months.
A 44-year-old man found guilty of posting social media threats to behead then-Lt. Gov. Josh Green, Mayor Rick Blangiardi and the Waianae Small Boat Harbor master following a dispute over nonpayment of $30,000 in mooring fees by the leader of a militant Hawaiian sovereignty group was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Green signs bills to regulate domestic abuse interventions, restraining orders. Green signed two bills on Friday that would amend referral requirements for restraining orders to only when alleged child abuse allegations arise and would require court-ordered interventions, or anger management, for certain criminal offenders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sustainable aviation fuel produced in Hawaiʻi expected by 2025. Since about half of the state's petroleum use comes from aviation, local companies Pono Pacific and Par Hawaiʻi plan to collaborate on a Hawaiʻi-based sustainable airplane fuel. Hawaii Public Radio.

New invasive species imperils Hawai‘i’s aquatic ecosystem.
A multi-agency working group has discovered a new invasive species off Hawai‘i’s coastline that threatens to upend the island chain’s marine ecosystem by outcompeting and suffocating its coral reefs. Garden Island.

Where have all the workers gone? Hawaii’s chief economist explains. “Now hiring” signs are now a common sight around Oahu and Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu


Plan for new Oahu jail gets partial, delayed funding
. Hawaii lawmakers included $10 million in their budget bill for the state Department of Public Safety to continue planning and design work on a replacement for Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

‘180 Degrees’ Different: Former HPD Chief Louis Kealoha Is Telling His Side Of The Story. A soon-to-be released book by a former TV reporter asks readers to view a notorious corruption scandal through a new lens. Civil Beat.

‘What should the public expect?’ Concerns over access to rail station sparks action. The first phase of the Honolulu rail system will take passengers from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, but a stop along the way is raising concerns among the community. KHON2.

Military Team Seeks To Drain 100M Gallons Of Fuel From Red Hill Without ‘A Single Drop’
Leaking. Amid pressure to act quickly, the Joint Task Force says it's preparing for worst-case scenarios and proceeding with caution. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Outrigger expands again, purchases Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel. Outrigger Hospitality Group announced Tuesday that it is acquiring the Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel — its sixth beach resort purchase over the past two years. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island


Hilo nursing home says it is clear of active COVID cases. The 252-bed nursing home recently suffered from an outbreak that was reported to the Hawaii Department of Health in early April, with 93 cases, including 76 residents and 17 staff. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Island nonprofit loses funding for housing mediation program. The West Hawaiʻi Mediation Center on Hawaiʻi Island received a state grant for a new restorative justice program but won’t get funding renewed for its popular landlord-tenant mediation program.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Gymnastic reprieve. In a July 2021 Special Permit Application, Kona Aerial Gymnastic Team Inc. submitted documentation stating the use of an existing agricultural warehouse structure located off Hualalai Road, approximately 700 feet east from its intersection with Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway for gymnastics classes and fitness training, which is currently ongoing in violation of the parcel’s zoning. West Hawaii Today.

DLNR IDs women cited for illegally feeding Waikoloa feral cats. The Department of Land and Natural Resources on Tuesday released the names of the two women cited by state conservation officers April 18 during a protest by feral cat activists at Queens’ Marketplace Shopping Center. Tribune-Herald.

Roundabout slated for Hilo: Work on project could start in 2025. The long-anticipated project would reconfigure the intersection between Bayfront Highway, Kamehameha Avenue and Waianuenue Avenue in an effort to mitigate traffic congestion at the northern entrance into town. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County May Buy The Lanai Passenger Ferry. The privately owned ferry service is a critical mode of transportation for the island's 3,000 residents. A ferry service that’s a vital link for Lanai residents traveling to and from Maui for work and medical appointments may sell its assets, creating uncertainty about the future of travel on the tiny island. Civil Beat.

April’s hotel occupancy, revenue down from 2022.
Occupancy at the county’s hotels was at 65.4 percent in April, 6.8 percentage points lower than the 72.2 percent occupancy seen at the same time in 2022, according to the Hawaii Hotel Performance Report released last week.  Maui News.

Nexamp to update community on proposed shared solar project, Lipoa Solar. Nexamp will share information about its Community Based Renewable Energy (CBRE) shared solar project proposed to be built mauka of Pi’ilani Highway in Kīhei above the Maui Research and Technology Park. Maui Now.

Rockfall threat shuts down portion of key highway on Maui.   A small portion of Hana Highway will be closed for up to one month, Maui County officials announced Tuesday. This comes after recent rockfall damaged the road in Kipahulu and smashed through the windshield of a car. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Liquor license renewals due June 30.  The deadline to renew liquor licenses for Fiscal Year 2023-24 is on June 30 at 4:30 p.m., according to the Kaua‘i Department of Liquor Control. Kauai Now.

Now that rats are eradicated at Palmyra Atoll, seabird ‘discotheques,’ decoys result in chick. A tiny grey-backed tern chick has been observed at Palmyra Atoll, validating that seabird attraction efforts are working, according to The Nature Conservancy of Hawai‘i and Palmyra. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

Tax breaks, legal pot, abortion rights, transparency bills advance as Legislature reaches midpoint, Supreme Court rules taxpayers not liable for Kealoha legal fees, Kilauea eruption pauses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tax Breaks, Legal Pot, Abortion Rights Get The Green Light At The Hawaii Legislature — So Far. House and Senate lawmakers voted Tuesday to advance an array of tax breaks for hard-pressed, low-income Hawaii residents, but left many of the difficult details for later. Civil Beat. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s Budget May Be Smaller Than Expected This Year, Council Says. Hawaii is likely to collect about $328 million less in revenue than previously anticipated during this fiscal year, the Council on Revenues said Tuesday.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Senate passes abortion protections bill. Advocates of a woman’s right to an abortion celebrated Tuesday’s passage of a state Senate bill protecting health care workers who perform abortions across the islands, including procedures performed on women coming in from out of state. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. KITV4.

Legalized adult recreational marijuana bill passes Senate. A bill that would legalize adult recreational use of cannabis in Hawaii passed its final state Senate floor vote Tuesday. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

GET bill clears state Senate. The state Senate voted 25-0 to pass Senate Bill 1035, which would exempt medical providers treating Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE patients from the state’s general excise tax. Tribune-Herald.

Some essential workers push for their own collective bargaining groups at the Legislature. The state has always been leery of the creation of new collective bargaining units for public employees, and with four measures up at the state Legislature this session, those decisions are at the table again. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers consider boosting wages for childcare providers amid critical shortage. Underpaid early childhood education providers are abandoning the profession at an alarming rate in what experts call a red flag for the economy. Hawaii News Now.

Voters Support Nearshore Water Protection Despite State Scrapping 30×30 Goal, Polling Finds
. Four out of five voters are supportive of stricter fishing regulations, according to a poll commissioned by The Nature Conservancy. A recent poll commissioned by conservation groups found Hawaii’s voters support more protective measures for nearshore waters, despite the Department of Land and Natural Resources recently scrapping the “30×30” marine management goal in response to what it said were community concerns. Civil Beat.

Thousands Of Hawaii ID Cards Were Misprinted In February, State DOT Says.
The state Department of Transportation announced in a press release Monday that it discovered an error on licenses and ID cards. The “Hawaii” text in the top left corner was misprinted due to hardware used by the state’s license vendor. The misprinted cards show “Hawaii” in plain sans-serif typeface instead of a script typeface. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui News.  Garden Island.

Oahu

Ex-HPD chief not entitled to city-funded attorney, high court finds. The state Supreme Court has reversed a decision that Louis Kealoha was entitled to taxpayer-funded legal representation while on trial for the scandal he was involved in as chief of the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Medical Examiner backlog of reports causing death certificate delays
. The Honolulu Medical Examiner is working on an 877 report backlog dating back three years ago and 400 reports have been completed so far. KHON2.

Kakaako Makai bill is rejected again. A bid by the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs to permit residential development on land it owns in Kakaako Makai has been blocked at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

$600 A Month In Kakaako Gets Seniors Mold, Shocks And The Smell Of Death. Maintenance problems at a state-owned apartment building for seniors underscore another challenge in providing affordable housing. Civil Beat.

Housing project for formerly incarcerated women opens.
Mohala Mai, meaning to “blossom forth,” is Oahu’s first permanent, supportive housing project for formerly incarcerated women. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Ex-athletic director allegedly used nonprofit to pay bills. A 2021 investigation by Mililani High School officials into allegations of theft from the athletic booster club revealed that then-athletic director Glenn S. Nitta Opens in a new tab allegedly used the nonprofit’s money to pay $364,709 for personal expenses, including gambling in Las Vegas; business, car and student loans; credit cards; and a Chinese dinner on New Year’s Eve. Star-Advertiser.

Plans to convert sports courts on Oahu for pickleball receives pushback
. In order to add nearly 70 pickleball courts to Oahu, the city says it plans to convert some tennis courts, like the ones at Kilauea District Park, to make room for the pickleball courts, but some are saying it will have a negative impact on children. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kilauea volcano activity pauses after 61 days.  Lava is no longer flowing on the Halemaumau Crater’s floor, where all recent eruptive activity has been confined, the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said in a statement. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Tax relief measure aimed at helping farmers advances. The measure would modify the county’s tax code to allow agricultural properties with residences built on them to qualify for the county’s homeowner tax exemption. Tribune-Herald.

Cockfight in Kona: New info revealed. Hawaii Island revealed more information Tuesday about a cockfight Saturday in South Kona that drew an estimated 800 to 1,000 people to the illegal event. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Couple sues Maui snorkeling firm after being left behind. A Hayward, Calif., couple is suing a Maui snorkeling operator, along with the boat captain and other unnamed defendants, for abandoning them in waters off Lanai while on a snorkelng tour during their 2021 honeymoon. Star-Advertiser.

Speed limit reduction along Kaʻahumanu Avenue takes effect March 22
. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation notifies Maui motorists of a speed limit change on Kaʻahumanu Avenue (Route 32) between Kainani Street/Lunalilo Street and Mile Marker 1.96 (vicinity of Mile Marker 2). The speed limit will be reduced from 45 mph to 35 mph in both directions. Maui Now.

Larry Ellison’s Company Helps Hawaii Find Housing For Key Mental Health Hire
. A state mental health agency has filled a key position on Lanai, restoring in-person social services to patients with severe psychiatric conditions amid a housing crisis that had forced two prior applicants to pull out of the job because they could not find an affordable place to live.  Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kaua‘i North Shore schools top list of religious vaccine exemptions.
Students on the North Shore of Kaua‘i are among the most likely in Hawai‘i to opt out of routine vaccinations for religious reasons, data from the state Department of Education shows. Garden Island.

Dangerous waves up to 40 feet on the way to Kauaʻi, Niʻihau starting Wednesday morning. The forecast is for dangerously large breaking waves building to 30 to 40 feet along north-facing shores and waves of 20 to 30 feet along west-facing shores of Niʻihau and Kauaʻi. Kauai Now.

Thursday, February 2, 2023

Honolulu settles Kealoha corruption lawsuit for $2.85M, lawmakers may limit campaign contributions during legislative session, bills seek to rehire employees who bucked COVID protocols, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Lawmakers May Limit Their Own Political Fundraising. Last year, legislators banned fundraising events during legislative session. This time, they may ban campaign donations during sessions. Civil Beat.

Is Hawaii Government Effective? It’s Hard To Tell. Are we growing more of our own food? Is the state reducing the number of applicants on the Hawaiian Home Lands waitlist? Are we rehabilitating more inmates and reducing jail overcrowding? It’s hard to find measurable, objective data that would sufficiently answer all of these questions and the dozens of others facing policymakers in Hawaii even though state agencies are required to report on their “measures of effectiveness” every year in mandatory variance reports. Civil Beat.

Lawmaker apologizes for comparing housing chief to the devil, but doubles down on DHHL criticism. Two days after Gov. Josh Green accused state Sen. Kurt Fevella of harassing his staff, the Ewa Beach lawmaker is apologizing. But he isn’t backing down from his criticisms of the Green Administration’s housing plans for Hawaiians. Hawaii News Now.

Bills call for rehiring state workers who defied vaccine mandate. Two bills introduced by Republican legislators would require state agencies to rehire and give back pay to employees who resigned or were terminated for refusing to be vaccinated or undergo weekly testing for COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Bill adding a teacher to the state Board of Education advances.
House Bill 556 proposes adding a teacher and a school administrator representative on the state Board of Education — both in nonvoting capacities. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i Environmental Legislative Caucus introduces visitor ‘green fee’ bill. The state Legislature’s Environmental Legislative Caucus has introduced a bill that could create more than $400 million in annual funds for environmental protections by charging visitors entrance fees for visiting certain state recreational sites. Garden Island. KHON2.

Bill seeks lifeguards for tour boats. A bill that would require certified lifeguards on boats that take tourists onto the water for snorkeling and other activities is again making its way through the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Law would stop vendors from prematurely setting up shop on the beach. Senate Bill 67 would prohibit resort and commercial vendors from setting up equipment on public beaches or public land, unless a customer is present. This would be for items such as rented beach chairs, umbrellas, surfboards, kayaks and non-motorized water equipment. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers seek solution for Hawaiian burial sites at risk of coastal erosion. Hawaiʻi lawmakers are considering a bill that would strengthen protections of Hawaiian burials or iwi along the islands’ coastlines. Hawaii Public Radio.

Discussion stresses importance of limiting light pollution. Environmental and astronomical experts are urging residents throughout the state to reduce outdoor lighting in order to prevent the spread of light pollution. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii COVID-19 positivity rate at 4.7%; 11 more deaths recorded.
The Hawaii Department of Health on Wednesday reported 766 new COVID-19 infections over the past week, bringing the total number of cases since the start of the pandemic to 377,743. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

$2.85M settlement with city reached in Puana lawsuit. $2.85M settlement with city reached in Puana lawsuit. The City and County of Honolulu has settled a civil lawsuit with Gerard Puana, the victim of the Kealoha corruption and bribery scandal, in the amount of $2.85 million. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

House reestablishes Red Hill working group amid continuous concern. The state House of Representatives has reestablished a House Special Committee on Red Hill this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

A public charter school on UH land “caught off guard” about possibly having to move. The principal at the University Lab School says their relationship with the University of Hawaii dates back all the way to the 1930s. Still, a recent comment by UH President David Lassner is alarming some parents and teachers who are wondering if that relationship will continue. Hawaii News Now.

Anti-crime programs need time to work, Honolulu prosecutor says. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm confirmed Wednesday that his office continues its anti­-crime efforts, albeit slowly, in known trouble spots like Waikiki, Chinatown and even into the Leeward areas of Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

In wake of Memphis case, commission grills HPD chief about slow discipline for officers accused of wrongdoing. HPD Chief Joe Logan said Wednesday he doesn’t have the power to immediately discharge a police officer, which raised even more questions about police discipline at a Honolulu Police Commission meeting Wednesday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

22 Honolulu police officers disciplined in 2022. Twenty-two police officers were disciplined last year in connection with 14 incidents including covering up a cellblock beating, and failing to report a barricade incident before fatally shooting the suspect, according to the Honolulu Police Department’s annual report to the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

1,700 Oahu parking meters now accepting payment via phone app. About 1,700 parking meters on Oahu have been configured to accept parking payments via a phone app, the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services announced. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

‘It’s Ridiculous’: Public Grows Frustrated By Lack Of Fresh Water At Popular Big Island Beach. DLNR has tried to fix the waterline at least 40 times over the past four years at Hapuna Beach. Civil Beat.

National Park Superintendent John Broward Retires. Broward was Superintendent of Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, as well as a former Chief Law Enforcement Ranger for HVNP. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Shift in council power changes committee roles. With the new dynamics on the Maui County Council that put the “progressive” members in the minority, high-profile council committees such as budget and affordable housing once held by the progressives are now under new leadership. Maui News.

Council to consider resolution protecting traditional and indigenous birth attendant practices.
The council will consider Resolution 23-38 at its meeting on Friday, urging the State Legislature to enact a statute permanently exempting birth attendants from state licensure requirements, Council member Keani Rawlins-Fernandez announced. Maui Now.

Two Maui County lawmakers named to panel overseeing $600M in DHHL funds. Central Maui Rep. Troy Hashimoto will chair a working group tasked with oversight of the $600 million provided to the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to address its beneficiary waiting list. Maui News.

Some appear to be flouting new rules for commercial bike tours on Maui. New rules started Wednesday to limit Maui’s famous cycling tours down Haleakala. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i county council chair Rapozo calls for simpler tax code. After a four-hour county Finance Department presentation before the Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday, Council Chair Mel Rapozo called for a streamlining of the tax system. Garden Island.

Marine debris contributed to death of sperm whale found at Lydgate Beach on Kaua’i. Researchers at the Health and Stranding Lab spent 15-hours trying to find clues about the death of a 56-foot-long sperm whale that washed up Friday on the reef in front of Lydgate Park on Kaua’i. Kauai Now. KITV4.


Thursday, November 17, 2022

Biden makes quick refueling stop in Hawaii, Hawaii County council passes list where guns banned, jury clears warden in prison rape case, jailed ex-police chief Kealoha starts paying restitution, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Biden lands in Hawaii, meets Iges after global tour. President Joe Biden used Gov. David Ige’s cell phone to take a selfie with Ige and First Lady Dawn Ige during a refueling stop today at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Iges reflect on their accomplishments and contemplate a future run for office. Ige declared a state of emergency 41 times-- each of them played out in the unforgiving eye of social media criticism often directed at Ige, famous for his methodical thinking and low-key, measured responses. Star-Advertiser.

Kouchi back as state Senate president. The state Senate announced Wednesday that Ronald D. Kouchi (D-8 – Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau) will remain Senate president next session, a position he has held since 2015. Garden Island.

Backlog delays food stamps for hundreds of families. Food stamps also known as SNAP benefits are usually received at the beginning of the month. But there are many who are still waiting. KHON2.

Longs Drugs pharmacists now prescribing Paxlovid. CVS Pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Health, which operates Longs Drugs in Hawaii, said pharmacists at more than 9,000 locations can now prescribe Paxlovid, an oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Health officials push bivalent boosters ahead of Thanksgiving. While the daily average of COVID-19 cases in Hawaii has become less of a concern, health officials are now keeping an eye on the rise of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus infections approaching winter. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii records 1,049 new COVID-19 cases, 6 more deaths. The number of cases per 100,000 in the state was at 10.0 compared with 10.9 the previous week. The state’s average positivity rate also declined to 5.1% compared with 5.3% the previous week. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Oahu

After recount of ballots, Democratic incumbent wins razor-thin state Senate race. In a razor-thin victory, Democratic incumbent Maile Shimabukuro won the state Senate race for District 22 after a recount of ballots. After the ballots were cured Wednesday, the results show Shimabukuro as the winner with just 40 votes over Republican Samantha Decorte.  Hawaii News Now.

The average wait for a residential permit is 10 months. The city hopes ‘bots’ will slash that to weeks. Improvements are in the works for Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting, which is grappling with a backlog of 6,000 residential permit applications. Hawaii News Now.

Jury finds state not liable for alleged women’s prison sex assaults. A federal jury on Wednesday returned a verdict finding that the state and a former warden of the women’s prison in Kailua are not liable for alleged sexual assaults committed by guards against six inmates between 2013 and 2016. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Navy stands up information sharing group to discuss Red Hill defueling. The Navy’s Joint Task Force Red Hill has named several elected officials and community members to a Defueling Information Sharing Forum group. Hawaii Public Radio.

VA researching jet fuel, Red Hill effects. Officials with the Department of Veterans Affairs told lawmakers Wednesday that they anticipate following the long-term effects of the Red Hill water crisis for many years. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

A bill that would impact theBus and Handi-van services is advancing at Honolulu Hale. The bill over bus fares has one more stop to make before becoming law. KITV4.

Imprisoned Ex-Honolulu Police Chief Kealoha Begins Paying Restitution. Honolulu’s ex-police chief Louis Kealoha has begun paying restitution more than three years after he was convicted in one of Hawaii’s most notorious corruption scandals. Civil Beat.

HPD chief: Officers were chasing motorcyclist moments before critical crash. Plainclothes police officers were chasing a motorcyclist moments before a crash last week that left the man critically injured, the Honolulu Police Department revealed Wednesday. The incident happened Nov. 10 in Wahiawa. Hawaii News Now.

Parents asked for more pedestrian safety efforts at Oahu’s North Shore — and they got it. The Department of Transportation is responding to parents pleas on Oahu’s North Shore for more action to address pedestrian safety. This week the DOT is installing two raised pedestrian crosswalks to act as speed bumps to reduce speeding in areas of concern. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

County Council passes legislation barring firearms in ‘sensitive places’. Bill 220, which defines a list of “sensitive places” on the island where carrying concealed and unconcealed firearms is prohibited, was introduced in late September and has finally been approved after three drafts and dozens of amendments. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Police Report: Mom Says Big Island Prosecutor Threatened To Shoot Her Son. A number of neighbors have had issues with the deputy prosecutor, Winston Albright, but he has kept his job as the cases get dismissed or resolved behind closed doors. Civil Beat.

Kanalani street extension to open soon. Just in time for holiday shopping, the extension of Kanalani Street providing access to the Kaloko Light Industrial Area could be opened as early as next week, thanks to action Wednesday by the Hawaii County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Nearly 2,000-acres In Kaʻū Transferred To Trail Association. Ownership and stewardship of Kiolakaʻa has been transferred from the Trust for Public Land to the Ala Kahakai Trail Association. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Deputy Chief Wade Maeda sworn-in as the Maui Police Department’s second in command. Maeda was promoted to fill the spot vacated by former Deputy Chief Charles Hank III, who announced his retirement in October after 10 months on the job.  Maui Now.

The State Just Cracked Down On This West Maui Water Company. Olowalu Water Co. was accused of taking more water than it was allowed from a stream, a rule that’s aimed at protecting fragile natural ecosystems. Civil Beat.

Lahainaluna farming program for boarders revives orchard. Project, which allows students to grow crops and sell products, gets help from Mahi Pono. Maui News.

Kauai

Council approves affordable housing funding commitment. In a move to set a floor for affordable housing funding, the Kaua‘i County Council unanimously approved a measure on Wednesday that would allocate 2 percent of real property tax revenue each year to a housing development fund. Garden Island.

Connecting with the homeless. The House Connect outreach event presented by the County Housing Agency in partnership with community agencies and groups continues on Thursday at The Salvation Army Lihu‘e Corps, starting at 10 a.m. Garden Island.

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Hawaii residents want tourism limits, former Honolulu police chief begins prison, COVID-19 outbreak at Hilo jail, Manoa Falls trail to reopen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2021 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Tourists, pre-COVID in Honolulu ©2021 All Hawaii News
  Hawaii residents support limits on tourism, a survey finds. As island tourism continues to rebound heading into summer, a new survey of residents finds support for better regulation of tourism, including more government controls that could lead to limiting numbers at popular destinations across the state and charging higher user fees to offset tourists’ impact across the islands. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.


Vacation Rentals Continue To See High Demand, But Regulations Create Uncertain Future.
Vacation rentals again outperformed hotels in occupancy rate for the month of April. That's according to a recent report from the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority tracking the monthly performance vacation rental units in the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Pentagon again denies funding for $1.9 billion Hawaii radar.
Funding for the $1.9 billion Homeland Defense Radar- Hawaii has again been zeroed out in the U.S. Missile Defense Agency’s proposed budget — a position that reflects evolving and competing defense priorities and could set up another challenge in Congress. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii is chosen for NOAA research institute. The University of Hawaii will receive up to $210 million over five years to lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s new Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research, it was announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

New incentives push Hawaiian Electric toward more clean energy. A portfolio of incentives that went into effect today will guide Hawaiian Electric as it operates under a new business model that emphasizes Hawaii’s clean energy goals. Star-Advertiser.

In rare move, lawmakers voted to eliminate job of well-paid university professor. Prof. Carl-Wilhelm Vogel has worked at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center for more than two decades, earning more than $300,000 a year. Hawaii News Now.

June 1, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 56 Cases.
The confirmed cases included: 24 on O‘ahu (+6 probable); 19 on Hawai‘i Island; two on Maui (+1 probable); three on Kaua‘i; and two cases in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed while out of state (-1 probable). Maui Now.

Oahu

Federal funding leaves Honolulu budget in limbo. The Honolulu City Council is expected to decide on a budget today, although it has not yet been finalized how the $196 million in federal funds Oahu is expected to receive from the American Rescue Plan Act will be spent. Star-Advertiser.

Alternatives To The Last Honolulu Rail Leg? HART Releases A ‘Matrix’ Of Ideas. The FTA says it “will discuss all possible options” amid rail’s latest, massive cost increases and schedule delays. Civil Beat.

Ex-HPD chief begins 7-year prison sentence for crimes he now denies. Louis Kealoha is now a federal prison inmate. The ex-police chief of Honolulu surrendered at a facility in Sheridan, Oregon on Tuesday as ordered by a judge to begin serving a seven-year term. Hawaii News Now.

Assistant Chief Rade Vanic takes over as interim Honolulu police chief.
The state’s largest law enforcement agency welcomed an interim leader Tuesday, announced the retirement of its second in command and began looking for qualified candidates to serve as Honolulu’s 12th police chief. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Tier 4 to increase capacity at restaurants but more workers are needed to meet demand. Mayor Rick Blangiardi sent a request to the governor to move into Tier Four, and a decision on that is expected to be announced this week. KHON2.

Oahu Neighborhood Board Election Winners Announced. This year, 495 candidates filed to run, and 402 were elected, the office said. Over 26,000 people voted, mostly online. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Popular Manoa Falls Trail to reopen on Saturday.
The popular Manoa Falls Trail is set to reopen this Saturday after being closed for nearly two years for safety improvements, according to state officials. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Board Of Water Supply Keeps Shutoff Suspension Through July 31. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply will not shut off its customers' water if they can’t pay their water and sewer bills through July 31. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island


Coronavirus cases rise at HCCC: Total of 77 inmates, 9 staff members infected. A COVID-19 outbreak at Hawaii Community Correctional Center has grown to include 77 inmates and nine staff members, the state Department of Public Safety announced Tuesday. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Updated COVID-19 Emergency Rules For Hawaii County. Rule No. 15 “opens commercial boating capacity to 100 percent, increases attendance at sporting events to 75 persons outdoors and 25 indoors, and defers all travel policies to the state’s Safe Travels program,” the Office of the Mayor says. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Planning Department outlines plan to fill CDP committees. Many of the citizen boards charged with advising the county on planning issues are getting by with holdover members whose terms have expired, and two don’t have enough members to make quorum, but progress is being made, Planning Department staff told a County Council panel Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

AT&T wants to place 5G tower on Saddle Road. Telecommunications company AT&T is seeking to erect a cell tower on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway about 13 miles from Waikoloa Village. Tribune-Herald.

Committee accepts statue donation, favors new location. After previously rejecting it in March, a Hawaii County Council committee on Tuesday accepted the donation of a statue at Liliuokalani Gardens with the stipulation that it be moved. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County COVID testing program receives award. Maui County was recognized for its community-based COVID-19 testing programs with an achievement award in the health category from the National Association of Counties. Maui News.

Presentation: “Purifying Kīhei’s Wastewater with 
Green Infrastructure as an Alternative to Injection Wells,” June 9. Three new low cost, low energy, pilot green infrastructure systems that will be constructed in Kīhei this summer to purify water coming out of the Kīhei Wastewater Reclamation Facility will be the topic of a free Zoom presentation by Paul Sturm, Executive Director of Ridge to Reefs, on Wednesday, June 9 at 5:30 p.m. Maui Now.

Kauai

An Explosion Of Green Parakeets Is Causing Big Problems On Kauai. Wild rose-ringed parakeets feast on fruit and corn crops, screech noisily and attract rats. Civil Beat.

Corteva Agriscience leases unused greenhouses. A collaborative community network is using 11 shade houses being leased to The Monkey Pod, a Kaua‘i nonprofit that was registered in 2017 to support and grow sustainable communities through agriculture. Garden Island.


Wednesday, March 24, 2021

Spring breakers could bring COVID surge, lobbyists but not public allowed in state Capitol, 1.4k vaccine doses discarded on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Kapu Quarantine Breakers
Spring breakers in Hawaii defy mask, distancing rules PC:
Hawaii Kapu Quarantine Breakers

Adjutant General warns of possible spring break COVID surge. COVID-19 case counts are still too high for the state to end the interisland travel quarantine in mid-April. That's what Adjutant General Kenneth Hara of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency said Tuesday at an AARP Hawaii webinar. KITV4.

Rapid growth in Hawaii arrivals stresses Safe Travels coronavirus screening. Travel to and between the Hawaiian islands has skyrocketed in recent weeks, nearing 30,000 on Saturday, March 20, which is almost pre-pandemic level, and all of them needed to squeeze through a post-arrival pinch-point: the Safe Travels screening that makes sure only COVID-negative people are checked off for quarantine exemptions. KHON2.

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The Hawaii Capitol Is Closed To The Public, But Some Lobbyists Still Have Entree. While most members of the public can’t visit the State Capitol during the 2021 legislative session, the ability of some lobbyists to gain access raises questions of fairness. Civil Beat.

Relief money plugs hole in proposed Hawaii budget to be voted on today. Coronavirus relief package will allow Hawaii to cover unemployment insurance claims and avoid slashing spending on key social programs like sexual assault treatment and HIV prevention, lawmakers say. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers advance bill to fund corrections oversight commission. Hawaii lawmakers are looking to fund a corrections oversight commission that was granted broad powers in 2019 but has been unable to hire staff due to a lack of funding. Star-Advertiser.

In Hawaii and across the U.S., advocates for police accountability are scrutinizing the union contracts that keep troublesome officers on the job. Over the next few months, Hawaii’s statewide police union will negotiate a new contract expected to result in pay raises for nearly 3,000 officers spread across four counties, most of them on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Legislation proposing amendments to aid-in-dying law stalls. Legislation that aimed to amend Hawaii’s aid-in-dying law passed through the state Senate earlier this month but failed to gain traction in the House. Tribune-Herald.

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6 Reaper drones will be based on Oahu. The Marine Corps in Hawaii will be getting six big MQ-9A Reaper drones that can be armed with missiles as the Corps as a whole pursues “a deliberate but aggressive” path toward unmanned systems to gain advantage over China. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s mayors discuss COVID restrictions and what’s next. Hawaii’s mayors have taken a key role in the COVID pandemic, putting in place restrictions or lifting them as they sought to balance public health with the economy. Hawaii News Now.

Pandemic depresses college-going rates, especially for Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders. The class of 2020 at Hawaii’s public high schools managed to graduate at a record rate after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic last spring, but far fewer of those graduates enrolled in college, new data shows. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaii Board of Agriculture expands coffee plant quarantine to slow spread of coffee leaf rust. The Hawaii Board of Agriculture voted today to expand the coffee quarantine areas in Hawaii in an attempt to keep coffee leaf rust, a fungus that can threaten the state’s coffee industry, from spreading. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

March 23, 2021 COVID-19 Update: The state Department of Health reports that there were 41 additional COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Tuesday, including 28 on O‘ahu, eight on Maui, one on Hawai‘i Island, one on Lāna‘i, and three in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed outside of the state. Maui Now.

Oahu

Former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha allowed to delay prison term to get COVID vaccine. Retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, who was convicted of conspiracy in a tangled corruption case, doesn’t have to report to prison until June so that he can get vaccinated against COVID-19. Associated Press. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

City audits HPD’s overtime costs after department spends $38M on overtime. The city council announced its plans to audit Honolulu Police Department’s overtime costs after a report shows that costs were up by nearly 40% -- even before the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Despite Lawsuit, HPD Still Lacks Conflict Of Interest Policy. A police commissioner said he plans to ask the chief about the policy at an upcoming meeting. Civil Beat.

Concert in Waianae draws hundreds of people sparking health and safety concerns. In a quonset hut on Waianae Valley Road Saturday night an estimated 500 people jammed to the music of Grammy-nominated rapper Swae Lee. Hawaii News Now.

NTSB: ‘Aggressive Takeoff Maneuver’ Likely Caused Fatal Skydiving Crash. The 2019 skydiving plane crash in Mokuleia — one of the nation’s worst civil aviation accidents of the past decade — probably occurred due to an “aggressive takeoff maneuver” by the pilot, according to new findings released Tuesday by the National Transportation Safety Board. Civil Beat.

Vaccination Appointment Call Center Opens for Kūpuna. While COVID-19 vaccinations are available to anyone 65 years of age or older, some O‘ahu kūpuna have not felt comfortable registering online. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Hugs are welcome again at nursing home. Kalakaua Gardens is “opening its doors so that its residents and their family members can visit each other again — up close and in person,” welcoming “hugs from family members” indoors and allowing nonessential visits outdoors starting this week. Star-Advertiser.

Low inventory, high demand driving Oahu home prices through the roof. In February 2021, the median price of a single-family home on Oahu was $917,500, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Fire chief selection questioned: Secret voting raises concerns. A politically connected battalion chief with a degree in fire science rocketed past his more experienced colleagues to take the top position in the Fire Department, but questions have come up about how the vote was taken, so it may have to be redone. West Hawaii Today.

DOH not expanding vaccine eligibility yet, despite Civil Defense message. The state Department of Health will not expand COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to those 50 and older today, despite a message early Tuesday from Hawaii County Civil Defense that said the department would do so. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Community Hospital preregistering Phase 2 individuals for vaccine. Kona Community Hospital has begun preregistering Phase 2 individuals age 50 and older to receive the Pfizer vaccine at their Thursday mega clinics held at Kekuaokalani Gymnasium in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
 
1,386 Vaccine Doses Compromised on Maui. An estimated 1,386 doses of Pfizer vaccine were compromised and ultimately discarded on Maui after it was discovered that a refrigerator door did not seal properly. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Wailuku water system, not lands, focus of potential county buy. While the government’s anticipated purchase of Wailuku Water Co.’s system and lands continues to drag on, the county Department of Water Supply is moving forward on key reports that will help put price tags on the water business and infrastructure. Maui News.

Upgrade would deliver potable water to West Maui projects. A proposed water system improvement project will help deliver potable water to Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and other state projects in West Maui. Maui News.

Researchers study false killer whale found on Maui. Octopus remains were found in the belly of a rare false killer whale on Maui, a dietary discovery that researchers say could help the endangered species. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Residents Age 60 And Up Now Eligible For COVID Vaccine. The County of Kauai has expanded COVID vaccine eligibility and said most residents are now eligible and there are appointments available. Hawaii Public Radio. Garden Island.

County refinancing $28.5 million in General Obligation Bonds. The County of Kaua‘i is moving forward with the issuance of approximately $28.5 million of general obligation bonds with the intent to refund certain outstanding general obligation bonds for economic savings. Garden Island.

Comments sought on PMRF radar proposal. A federal project to secure a location for a radar capable of detecting and classifying missile threats is seeking a spot close to home. Garden Island.

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Native Hawaiian agency seeks to build casino on Oahu, first COVID-19 vaccines administered, Diamond Head to reopen Thursday, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Diamond Head State Monument ©2020 All Hawaii News

Diamond Head State Monument to reopen Thursday. The Diamond Head State Monument is slated to reopen to the public Thursday after a nine-month closure with significant changes that include occupancy limits on the popular hiking trail. Star-Advertiser.

Diamond Head Monument To Reopen To Visitors. The popular state attraction has been closed for nine months due to COVID-19. Civil Beat.

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On ‘momentous’ day, state’s first COVID-19 vaccines administered to local healthcare workers. A doctor who’s witnessed firsthand the pain COVID-19 has inflicted on hundreds of Hawaii families was given a dose of hope Tuesday: the first coronavirus vaccine administered in the state. Hawaii News Now.

Health Care Workers Get Hawaii’s First COVID-19 Shots. After months of working with coronavirus patients, health workers at the Queen’s Medical System said they were grateful for what will be a new layer of protection against the infectious respiratory disease. Civil Beat.

COVID-19 unit doctor is first to receive coronavirus vaccine in Hawaii. Five people with the Queen's Medical Center were the first in Hawaii to receive the COVID-19 vaccine on Tuesday. KITV4.

Queen’s doctor becomes first person in Hawaii to get Pfizer vaccine since approval for emergency use. After months of endless infections, mounting deaths and economic collapse, Hawaii residents may finally see the light at the end of an agonizing tunnel. Star-Advertiser.

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Director of state's Office of Early Learning expects to have all its pre-K schools reopen to in person learning. On Tuesday the Director of the state's office of early learning said it expects to have all of their pre-K schools reopen to in person learning starting next month. KITV4.

Public preschool options in Hawaii vary during pandemic. About 85% of the public preschool classrooms overseen by the Executive Office on Early Learning are offering in-person instruction, but Head Start preschool programs and charter school ones are still largely remote. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers discuss future of child care, early childhood education. Administrators of the state’s early childhood education and subsidized child care programs told lawmakers Tuesday that the coronavirus pandemic has forced them to scale back services for the time being. Tribune-Herald.

Pandemic alters students’ early-learning
. On Tuesday, the state House held a virtual meeting to discuss how early-learning programs in Hawai’i have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Garden Island.

Schools Provide A Critical Safety Net For Kids. Can They Do That Via Zoom? Youth advocates and school staff worry students are not getting the proper counseling or basic social services available in a regular school setting. Civil Beat.

Public school educators are fighting to block the state’s furlough plan. The Board of Education has a meeting on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

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Time Almost Out For Hawaii To Spend Federal Pandemic Relief Funds. Hawaii likely has just a few remaining days to make use of emergency pandemic relief funds awarded to Hawaii by the federal government in March when Congress passed the $2 trillion CARES Act. Hawaii Public Radio.

UH Researchers: Hawaii Renters Will Need Help Throughout 2021. Researchers at the University of Hawaii estimate several thousand more renters will be paying over 30% of their income on rent next year. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — Dec. 15: 57 New COVID-19 Cases. Health officials reported 57 new COVID-19 cases statewide on Tuesday, including 35 on Oahu, 10 on the Big Island, eight on Maui, and four Hawaii residents who were diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

DHHL considers proposal to build casino in Kapolei. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands dropped a bombshell on its website late Tuesday, floating the idea of building a casino on trust land in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

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Louis Kealoha ordered to repay $250K settlement, though city unlikely to ever see it. A circuit court judge has ordered former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha to repay the $250,000 the Honolulu Police Commission gave him to retire in 2017, before he was indicted on federal corruption charges. Hawaii News Now.

Louis Kealoha Ordered To Pay Back His $250,000 Retirement Settlement. In addition to restitution, Louis Kealoha will have to pay the city back for his severance. Civil Beat.

Former HPD chief Louis Kealoha ordered to pay back severance. Former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha is headed to federal prison next spring, and he has to pay $250,000 to the city. KHON2.

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Rail project faces new leadership Thursday. The city’s troubled rail project is pivoting to an uncertain “Plan B” to complete the final 4.16-mile push to Ala Moana while looking at the possibility of new leadership Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Kahuku football coach Maui Kahalepuna, 43, dies after battling COVID-19. The Kahuku community is mourning the death of an assistant football coach, and beloved community member. KHON2.

Unexpected Delay in Honolulu’s “City Card" Program. The $500 cards are valid from 12/7-12/27 but were not sent out last week due to an "unexpected delay," according to a spokesperson with the City's Office of Economic Revitalization.  KITV4.

Hilton Hawaiian Village reopens as isle tourism slowly recovers. The reopening of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, the state’s largest hotel property, and the start of COVID­­-19 vaccinations in Hawaii are major milestones on the still long and winding road to tourism recovery. Star-Advertiser.

These parklets will be taking over some street parking stalls in Kaimuki. There will be a few less spaces to street park in Kaimuki in an effort to help boost business for area shops and restaurants. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Spike in auto thefts, burglaries during pandemic. While some businesses have shuttered and others have suffered downturns during the coronavirus pandemic, the old adage “crime never takes a holiday” is holding true. Tribune-Herald.

‘Heroes and Helpers’; Gift distribution event serves more than 60 keiki. This year’s focus was primarily keiki and youth from the Ka‘u District and was based on COVID-19 affected needs. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Judge dismisses Bank of America suit against county.
County mulls legal action over lender’s decades-old $150M home loan promise. A federal judge on Monday dismissed a Bank of America lawsuit against the County of Maui, paving the way for the county to pursue possible claims against the banking giant over a decades-old $150 million home loan promise to Native Hawaiians and others that allegedly went unmet. Maui News.

Business ‘getting better’ for some Paia merchants.
Local shops and eateries in Paia town that were shuttered for weeks to months at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic are starting to show some promise, with a few managers staying positive with the recent boost in tourism. Maui News.

Oregon Man Arrested on Maui for Alleged Quarantine Violation. Police say they were investigating a separate incident, when they found the man had left his listed residence, in violation of his quarantine. Maui Now.

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Live Skunk Found and Captured at Kahului Pier on Maui. The skunk was spotted roaming around in the container yard early in the morning and was reported to harbor security by a biologist surveying for stranded sea bird fledglings. Maui Now.

Live skunk found roaming at Kahului pier. A live skunk was found in a maritime container at a Kahului pier today, the Hawaii Department of Agriculture reported. Star-Advertiser.

Live Skunk Found in Maui. A live skunk was found and captured this morning at a maritime container yard at Pier 1 in Kahului, Maui. Big Island Now.

Kauai


Skate park renovations expected done next week. With two weeks to go, Na Lei Wili Area Health Education Center’s executive director and Kaua‘i Skatepark Foundation’s lead advocate are confident that the Kapa‘a skate park’s resurfacing project will be done earlier than the expected deadline. Garden Island.

Kalalau opens to hikers, volunteers work to keep trail clear. The Friends of Kalalau trail, a group of volunteers, made their repairs and maintenance on the first two miles of Kalalau trail, which starts at the Ha‘ena State Park. Garden Island.