Hawaii inter-island vaccine passport program begins today, Mauna Kea working group named, $2,200 teacher bonus outside Legislature's authority, Ige says, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourists on Mauna Kea ©2021 All Hawaii News

State’s inter-island vaccine passport program begins as broader plan still in the works. The state’s vaccine passport program starts Tuesday for inter-island travelers. It applies only to people who got their shots in Hawaii. The passport program allows fully vaccinated individuals to skip a COVID-19 test or travel-related quarantine. Hawaii News Now. Big Island Now.

Bill to increase lodging tax could stifle visitor industry, some say. Hawaii’s hotel tax will likely go up by nearly 30% if legislation goes through giving the four counties the option of raising the fee. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii businesses say too many loopholes keep employees from coming back to work. Some employers say there are too many loopholes and unemployment benefits are too generous. It’s a combination that makes it impossible to find enough workers. KHON2.

Governor says lawmakers had ‘no authority’ to approve $2,200 bonuses for teachers. Gov. David Ige said the bonus needs to be negotiated between the administration and the union ― not the Legislature. HGEA, the union representing principals and other school staff, called the disregard of collective bargaining unconscionable. Hawaii News Now.

Report ranks Hawaii 5th in nation in solar jobs per capita. The recently released National Solar Jobs Census 2020 found that one out of every 617 jobs in the state is a solar job, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, The Solar Foundation and Interstate Renewable Energy Council, which earned it the No. 5 spot for solar jobs per capita. Star-Advertiser.

Paul Morgan To Officially Announce His Candidacy for Hawaiʻi Governor May 16. Paul Morgan, a self-employed business consultant and former Hawaiʻi Army National Guard member, officially will announce his candidacy for Governor of the State of Hawai’i 2022 on May 16 at noon at the Hawai’i Republican Party Headquarters in Honolulu. Maui Now.

Hawaii coronavirus cases are expected to plunge, Lt. Gov. Josh Green says. Hawaii ranks third in the nation for the number of adults who have received at least shot, according to The New York Times, which, based on data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has been tracking vaccination rates in all states. About 41% of Hawaii residents are fully vaccinated. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

May 10, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 61 Cases (36 O‘ahu, 11 Maui, 0 Hawai‘i Island, 6 Kaua‘i, 8 Out-of-State). Maui Now.

Oahu

Ex-Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha to visit family before heading to prison. A judge is allowing former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha, convicted in a corruption case, to meet with family and friends in Washington state before he begins serving a seven-year prison sentence in Oregon. Associated Press.

More Marines Are Coming To Hawaii. Hawaii is scheduled to get about 2,700 more Marines along with their spouses and children in coming years but the military lacks a plan for accommodating the restructured force. Civil Beat.

HART Rail Document Reveals 27 Alternative Plans to Complete Project. A public records request from the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii uncovered a rail report that the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit tried to keep confidential. In it is an analysis of 27 alternatives to the original plan including an underground tunnel and shifting the line to Nimitz Highway. Hawaii Public Radio.

City Council resolution urges rail to stop at Middle Street. Councilwoman Heidi Tsuneyoshi introduced a resolution to urge the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Board to pause rail construction at Middle Street. Star-Advertiser.

L&L co-founder Eddie Flores, critical of Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Chinatown efforts. Eddie Flores, chairman of the ubiquitous L&L Hawaiian Barbecue chain, is willing to pay out of his own pocket to help beautify Chinatown but worries about the bigger problem of Chinatown’s homeless, which he sees getting worse. Star-Advertiser.

Niu Valley construction raises alarm over heiau. Construction of a $1.2 million duplex home in Niu Valley is stirring community concern that the work may be disturbing remnants of a documented Hawaiian heiau. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii crime-fighting community program to shut down due to lack of funding. The Honolulu City Council introduced a budget that would help Weed and Seed’s operations. Those funds will not be available until July, if approved. KHON2.

Federal COVID aid is helping to get nearly 1,000 homeless people on Oahu into housing. New funds from the federal CARES Act are being used to get 300 homeless families out of shelters or off the streets and into places of their own. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Rep. Scott Saiki names membership of Mauna Kea Working Group. State House Speaker Scott Saiki on Monday announced the membership of a panel that will meet over the next year to come up with recommendations for a new management and governance structure to oversee the telescope community on Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  

Kona Community Hospital expects to begin vaccinating youth as young as 12 on Friday. The announcement follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Monday expansion of the use of Pfizer’s two-dose vaccine for youth ages 12 to 15. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Tourists Are Back. In Rural Hana, The Residents Aren’t Happy. Visitors are bringing an infusion of cash but they’re underscoring concerns about overtaxed roads, beaches and infrastructure, environmental degradation and cultural exploitation.  Civil Beat.

Maui County Now Accepting Applications for Emergency Rental & Utility Assistance. The program is for low-income households that have been hit hardest financially by the COVID-19 pandemic. It pays for rent, utilities or both, for up to 12 months of total support. Maui Now.

Kauai

More than 500 apply for rent help. On the opening day of acceptance of applications for the 2021 Coronavirus Rental and Utility Assistance Program, approximately 500 Kaua‘i households applied. Garden Island. KITV4.

Workers wanted: Kaua‘i business owners say it’s hard to hire good workers. Businesses have seen an uptick in sales as tourism picked up since Kaua‘i rejoined the Safe Travels program on April 5, but they are still having a hard time hiring new employees to fill their business needs. It’s a trend that is continuing nationwide. Garden Island.

Study: pandemic led to planting. The amount of planted acreage on Kaua‘i increased over the past year, according to an updated study on land use in the state released by the state Department of Agriculture. Garden Island.

Green very popular in poll, 63% vaccinated, facial recognition comes to Honolulu airport, lumber prices more than double, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

An apparently exhausted Lt. Gov. Green on July 29, 2020

Hawaii Voters Really, Really Like Lt. Gov. Josh Green. But Gov. David Ige gets low marks as does Speaker Scott Saiki, the Legislature and former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Of those surveyed in the latest Civil Beat/Hawaii News Now poll, 63% said they had a positive view of Josh Green, who has all but declared his intention to succeed the term-limited David Ige next year. Civil Beat.

How major bills in Hawaii fared at the Capitol in 2021. The 31st state Legislature adjourned Thursday and forwarded over 200 bills to Gov. David Ige, including ones that would make it illegal to capture or kill sharks, require state departments to identify facilities that are vulnerable to sea level rise and allow advanced practice registered nurses to perform abortions. Star-Advertiser.

Historic, divisive state land lease extensions pending. A highly divided Legislature recently passed a heavily contested bill that would let tenants on state-owned public land maintain leases for roughly a century, up from 65 years, without competition. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmaker apologizes for words ‘reported out of context’. Under fire for what one Native Hawaiian group described as hate speech, Hawaii island state Sen. Lorraine Inouye issued an apology for comments she made in a television news interview and pledged to consult with Hawaiian cultural practitioners to help educate her on related issues. Star-Advertiser.

Bringing Back The Pork: Case, Kahele Make Their Pitch For $57 Million. Earmarks were banned in 2011 after a series of scandals involving congressionally directed spending. Now Congress has decided to bring the process back with more transparency. Civil Beat.

Ed Case Revives Ambitious Pacific Island Foreign Policy Bill. The bill would authorize $1 billion in aid to Pacific Island nations and boost trade, diplomatic and military relations across the region. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric to End Moratorium on Disconnections for Nonpayment. The moratorium, established about a year ago due to financial hardships inflicted by the COVID-19 pandemic, is scheduled to end on May 31. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lumber prices more than double. The cost of building a new home in Hawaii has jumped during the pandemic, largely because of the huge increase in lumber prices. KITV4.

Zippy's offering cash incentives for new hires. Some businesses hard-pressed for new hires during the pandemic are offering certain incentivesPopular restaurant, Zippy's, launched a new recruitment bonus program offering up to $3,000 cash for those looking to fill manager spots, or up to $500 for other positions. KITV4.

As Demand Wanes, Hawaii Reduces Its COVID-19 Vaccine Order For The First Time. The slowdown comes as Hawaii reached a milestone, with nearly 63% of the 16-and-older population fully vaccinated as of Tuesday. Civil Beat.

May 4, 2021 COVID-19 Update: 80 Cases (60 O‘ahu, 11 Maui, 2 Hawai‘i Island, 1 Kaua‘i, 6 Out-of-State). Maui Now.

Oahu

Homeless concerns growing in Chinatown. Four months into the administration of Mayor Rick Blangiardi and hopes are dimming that any meaningful and quick change is coming to Chinatown to reduce homelessness in Honolulu’s oldest neighborhood. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

City Prosecutor Steve Alm On Tackling Crime, Police Investigations. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm just marked 100 days in office. Hawaii Public Radio.

Facial recognition technology goes live at Honolulu’s airport as part of federal program. Simplified Arrival for International Arrivals to Begin at Honolulu's Airport. Honolulu will be the latest U.S. city to use facial biometrics to scan international arrivals. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Access gate at a popular West Oahu spot to reopen after lengthy closure. After being closed for more than year, the DLNR announced the Keawa’ula Section of Kaena State Park will be reopening this weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Skydiving gets 6-month extension at Dillingham airfield. Oahu’s only skydiving operations can continue to operate at Dillingham Airfield at least until Dec. 31 under an extension granted by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

City Pays $365,000 To Motorist In Crash With HPD. Police initially said the driver hit the police car. But witnesses disputed that. Civil Beat.

State Rep. Perruso says farmland infamous for chop shop, shooting, trafficking still marred in crime. There are calls for change as concern grows over a large piece of land in Wahiawa that some say is once again becoming a hotbed for crime. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Another reprieve for Van Pernis: Council members balk at taking the unprecedented step of removal. A bare majority of County Council members remained unwilling Tuesday to take the unprecedented step of removing a sitting planning commissioner, and instead by a 5-4 vote deferred Mayor Mitch Roth’s request until August. West Hawaii Today.

Le updates council on launch of Kilauea recovery housing buyout program and next steps to be taken. More than 100 people have submitted applications for Hawaii County to buy their lava-damaged properties in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Post-Arrival COVID-19 Testing Soft Launch Begins at Kahului Airport. Maui County’s new post-arrival testing program for unvaccinated trans-Pacific arrivals from the continental US debuted Tuesday with hundreds of travelers undergoing rapid COVID-19 testing at Kahului Airport. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

War Memorial Complex Facilities to be Closed to General Public, May 21-22 for Graduations. War Memorial Complex facilities will be closed to the general public on May 21 and May 22 for graduation ceremonies hosted by Baldwin and Maui high schools, the Department of Parks and Recreation announced. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai to move into modified Tier 3 after spike in COVID-19 cases. If approved by Gov. David Ige, the amendments will cut indoor social gatherings to five people from 10 in Tier 3, although outdoor gatherings will be expanded to 25 people from 10. Star-Advertiser. Garden Island. KITV4.

Reaching out to the houseless of Lydgate. The park is set to shutter at the end of May to its current houseless residents, who have been able to shelter in place for over a year. Garden Island.

Coronavirus vaccinations expanded to age 70-plus, all teachers to be immunized by April, Maui closes in on Oahu for tourism numbers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Department of Health Director Dr. Libby Char

Hawaii residents 70 and older eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations starting Monday; state receives Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The state has decided to open eligibility for COVID-19 vaccinations early to residents 70 and older on Monday because of a substantial increase in the number of shots arriving in the islands. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

The first shipment of Johnson &Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine arrived Wednesday in Hawaii. According to the state Department of Health, 5,900 doses were delivered to Oahu, while Hawaii, Maui and Kauai counties each will receive 2,000 doses of the vaccine, which was approved for emergency use Saturday by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Tribune-Herald. Garden Island. Maui Now. KITV4.

Senate Health Committee Recommends Libby Char as DOH Director. The Senate Health Committee today, March 3, voted to recommend that the Senate consent to the appointment of Dr. Elizabeth “Libby” Char as Director of the Department of Health. She took over leadership at the DOH on Sept. 16, 2020, after being appointed by Gov. David Ige. Big Island Now.  KHON2.

AARP Hawaiʻi Seeking Kupuna Feedback About COVID-19 Vaccination Experiences. AARP Hawaiʻi is asking kupuna 50 and older to fill out an online questionnaire and share their experiences and thoughts about the COVID-19 vaccine process in Hawaiʻi in an effort to improve the process. Maui Now.

Hawaii to have all teachers vaccinated before April, here’s why it’s important. Hawaii is on track to get all teachers vaccinated by the end of March, 2021, according to Lt. Gov. Dr. Josh Green. KHON2.

Hawaii’s hotel industry wants workers vaccinated now. The state Department of Health has ruled that travel is not essential to the “functioning of society” and has said most hotel workers must wait a little longer to get vaccinated. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Green urges governor to drop interisland quarantine. Interisland travelers may no longer need to get tested starting in April, 2021, if the lieutenant governor gets his way. KHON2.

Governor reflects on a year of successes and blunders in responding to COVID. A year after he issued his first COVID-related emergency proclamation, Gov. David Ige on Wednesday reflected on the lessons he’s learned and what’s still ahead. In an interview with Hawaii News Now, Ige apologized for ongoing delays in issuing unemployment benefits during the pandemic but commended the state’s efforts in containing the spread of the virus. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

=====

Military Spouses Hope For Easier Ways To Get Licensed To Work In Hawaii. A House bill would expedite the licensing process for many military spouses, especially medical professionals, who have to move frequently. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Consider Requiring Gender Diversity On Corporate Boards. The Senate bill cites several studies that say gender diversity on boards is correlated with higher or equal profits compared with all-male boards. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines Is Holding Off On More Layoffs — For Now. The state’s largest private employer has said it will delay plans for a large lay off, even as changes to Hawaii’s travel policy remain in limbo. Civil Beat.

More elementary kids headed back to school in 4th quarter. More elementary students will be back on campus after spring break and secondary schools are also being asked to ramp up in-person learning, Superintendent Christina Kishimoto said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Despite criticism, DOE Superintendent says she’s focused on the challenges ahead. Hawaii Department of Education Superintendent Dr. Christina Kishimoto says there are more pressing issues to focus on in light of the teachers’ union voting against renewing her contract. Hawaii News Now.

Nonprofit moves forward with lawsuit to protect Hawaiian honeycreeper. The Center for Biological Diversity today filed suit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for failing to designate critical habitat and develop a recovery plan for the iiwi, a cherished forest bird in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

COVID-19 Update: There were 20 new COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Wednesday, including eight on O‘ahu, 11 on Maui, and one on Kaua‘i. Hawai‘i’s COVID-19 deaths increased to 441 with two new deaths reported Wednesday, both on O‘ahu. Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Department still probing body cam misuse, overtime abuse. The Honolulu Police Department is still investigating a couple of dozen cases of possible misuse of body-worn cameras and abuse of overtime. Star-Advertiser.

Police Commissioners: Redirect HPD Funds To Social Services And Cut Overtime. Other cities are considering moving police department funds to social services. Some Honolulu police commissioners say the city should follow suit. Civil Beat.

Youth Correctional Facility Managers Receive Ethics Fines. Mark Patterson, administrator of the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility in Kailua, and institutional facility superintendent Darrell Bueno were fined last week by the Hawaii State Ethics Commission. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

HART interim CEO: Rail construction in Dillingham corridor halted, route may shift. Construction of the problem-plagued Honolulu rail project in the Dillingham corridor has been halted, interim HART CEO Lori Kahikina said Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Kalaeloa slated for first new housing subdivision in decades. Longtime Hawaii housing developer Gentry Homes is planning to build the first homes at the former Barbers Point Naval Air Station in Kalaeloa since the base closed in 1999. Star-Advertiser.

State board considers 2 more towers at Ward Village. A state board Wednesday began its review of two very different condominium towers planned for Ward Village, and the distribution of moderate-priced homes was a major point of discussion. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Vaccinations ramp up: 4,000 doses could be given at Hilo POD. Hilo Medical Center will offer 4,000 doses of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine during an upcoming mass-vaccination POD, doubling the capacity of its last large clinic. Tribune-Herald.

Energov moving forward: Planning and permit system set to go live July 26. A multi-agency software system designed to streamline the planning and building permit process is now scheduled to go live at the end of July, five years after the project first began. West Hawaii Today.

County accepts $83M for Kilauea eruption recovery projects. The Hawaii County Council accepted Wednesday $83 million in federal funds for Kilauea eruption recovery projects in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Daniel K. Inouye Highway extension project progressing despite lack of funding. A record of decision marking the completion of the environmental review process for the long-delayed extension of Daniel K. Inouye Highway is expected this fall. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor to Host Virtual State of the County Address on March 9. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino’s third State of the County Address will be a virtual event, scheduled to take place at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 9. Maui Now.

Maui closes in on Oahu for visitor arrivals in January. There were 66,925 visitors on Maui and 78,967 visitors on Oahu in January, according to the most recent Hawaii Tourism Authority data. Maui News.

County working on lawsuit against bank. Contracted private attorneys for Maui County are currently working on a draft complaint of a lawsuit that may be brought against Bank of America and other mortgage lenders, a county attorney said on Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Blessing to mark completion of Kauai affordable rental project. A blessing will be held on Friday, March 5, to mark the official completion of an affordable rental housing project on Kauai. KHON2.

Red Cross officials recognize Hero, Volunteer of the Year. March is American Red Cross Month and acknowledged by Mayor Derek Kawakami with gratitude and appreciation to the American Red Cross, Kaua‘i Branch headed by Padric Gallagher. Garden Island.

On Kauai, virtual counseling offers struggling residents an important lifeline.  Residents on Kauai are now eligible for three hours of free counseling with a new program. Hawaii News Now.

New management structure for Mauna Kea, in-person graduation ceremonies allowed, Kaui to vaccinate hotel workers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiian ceremony prior to 2019 protests over Mauna Kea ©2021 All Hawaii News

House advances measure for new Mauna Kea management. A measure that aims to form a working group to develop a new management structure for Mauna Kea was advanced Thursday in the state House of Representatives. According to the resolution, the failure of the university to properly consult with Native Hawaiians has led to mistrust and polarization within the community, a situation that must be reconciled. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii public schools allowed to hold graduations in 2021 with strict protocols. Graduation ceremonies may be held at Hawaii public schools this year under strict safety guidelines that include limits on the number of guests and no physical contact during the celebration. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Hawaii Lawmakers Consider Standardized Pandemic Travel Rules. Hawaii lawmakers are considering a bill that would standardize the state's pandemic travel restrictions across the islands, a departure from the current system that allows individual counties to opt out of a state pre-flight testing program or add their own modified safety measures. Associated Press.

Proposal Would Streamline Involuntary Treatment Of Those With Severe Mental Illness. Public defenders are obliged to fight involuntary treatment for their clients. Lawmakers are considering cutting them out of the process. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Mull Mediation To Prevent Mass Evictions After Moratorium Lifted. A bill would require landlords to enter mediation upon a tenant’s request, but some advocates say the measure doesn’t do enough to protect renters at risk of eviction. Civil Beat.

New commander named for Pacific Fleet sub force in Hawaii. The acting secretary of the Navy and chief of naval operations announced today that Rear Adm. Jeffrey T. Jablon will be assigned as commander of the sub force in the Pacific, replacing Rear Adm. Blake Converse. Star-Advertiser.

Feb. 25, 2021 COVID-19 Update: There were 45 new COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Thursday, including 24 on O‘ahu, 18 on Maui, one on Hawai‘i Island, and two in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed out-of-state. Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council seeks audit of HPD overtime policies, procedures. The Honolulu City Council wants an audit conducted of the Honolulu Police Department to examine the department’s overtime policies, protocols and procedures following overtime abuse that was detected months ago. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Changes to Honolulu EMS could mean higher ambulance fees.  Lawmakers are moving forward with a proposal to let the City control its own funding for Honolulu Emergency Medical Services. KHON2.

Retail stores allowed back at full capacity as O'ahu officially enters Tier 3. Again retail shops at 100% but they do still have to have social distancing and other protections in place. KITV4.

Some Honolulu businesses already see an increase in customers under the new reopening phase. Businesses were able to serve more people as Honolulu moved into Tier 3 of its reopening plan. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii wants greater say in new stadium project. As companion bills to bolster the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District advanced through the Legislature this week, the University of Hawaii has stepped up its campaign to gain a larger voice in the facility’s future. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kīlauea Recovery Housing Survey Launched. The County of Hawai‘i is surveying residents affected by the 2018 eruption to help guide recovery investments and projects, including an upcoming Voluntary Housing Buyout Program. Big Island Video News.

“Bark Ranger” Program Unleashed At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes. The new, self-guided "Bark Ranger" program will help dogs and their humans to have a "pawsitive" experience in the park, the park service says. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Lt. Gov.: 10,000-12,000 Administered Doses Unaccounted for in Maui’s Vaccine Rates. There are 10,000 to 12,000 vaccine doses that were administered and are unaccounted for in Maui’s vaccine rates being reported by the Department of Health, according to Lieutenant Governor Josh Green who was a guest during a talk story webinar hosted by Councilmember Kelly King on Tuesday evening. Maui Now.

Green: Vaccine counts lagging. Lt. Gov. Josh Green estimated that there are about 10,000 to 12,000 undercounted doses in Maui County, which ranks last in the state in the percentage of the population vaccinated. Maui News.

Maui Health plans to ramp up vaccine appointments. Hospital nearly finished with rescheduled first-dose patients. Maui News. Maui Now.

Tents offer an innovative solution to schools seeking socially-distanced classroom space. The “Temptation Island” TV show that filmed on Maui recently donated six event tents to Kihei schools: Kamalii Elementary, Lokelani Intermediate, Kihei Elementary and Kihei Public Charter School. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kauai hotel workers could be next in line for COVID vaccines. Hotel workers in Kauai could soon be receiving their first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, the Hawaii Tourism Authority said. Hawaii News Now.

$22M rental-assistance program coming. The County Housing Agency has been given the OK by the County Council to start up what hopes to be a $22-million, federally funded rental assistance program. Garden Island.

4 lanes for Wailua. Starting Monday, the DOT’s Highway Division will begin construction between Kuamo‘o Road and the Kapa‘a bypass road for a second southbound lane on Kuhio Highway. Garden Island.

Only 11% of Hawaii residents have gotten at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, in-person schools, youth sports restarting, humpback whales giving birth and training calves, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale with calf in Hawaii PC:NOAA

NOAA warns boaters about humpbacks in Hawaii waters. Wildlife officials are warning boaters to watch out for an abundance of mother and calf humpback whale pairs in the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and nearby waters. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

More public school students in Hawaii head back to campus. Slightly more than half of all public school teachers in Hawaii have received a coronavirus vaccination so far, according to a survey last week by the Hawaii State Teachers Association. Star-Advertiser.

DOH releases guidelines to resume youth sports. The guidance lists wearing masks as a requirement and say if a sport cannot be played while wearing them, the sport should not be played until mask mandates are lifted in respective counties. KITV4.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green says large gatherings may be possible by summertime. Hawaii is on track to resume graduations, weddings and other major milestones by the summer with schools being able to reopen in May. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

State working on system to allow vaccinated travelers to skip quarantine. Seeking to jump-start Hawaii’s travel industry and ease some restrictions, the state is reportedly nearing a system for vaccinated individuals to travel to and within Hawaii, quarantine-free. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. hopes to start vaccinating folks in phase 1C in about two weeks. The Health Department tells us as of last week, about 47% of those who are 75 and older have been given at least one shot. Looking at the bigger picture, about 11% of the total population has gotten at least one dose. KHON2.

Life after the Vaccine -- When Will Things Return to Normal? "2021 will still be a COVID year," said Dr. Scott Miscovich of Premier Medical Group Hawaii. KITV4.

Lt. Gov. Green vows to remain doctor despite House bill banning second jobs. Currently Lt. Gov. Josh Green works two 48-hour shifts a month as an emergency room doctor on the Big Island. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers eye stiffer penalties for illegal fireworks. Hawaii lawmakers are considering ramping up fines for illegal fireworks and making it easier for law enforcement to adjudicate violations in an attempt to clamp down on the illegal activity. Star-Advertiser.

Bill would require report on impacts when gender identity care is denied. A bill requiring an assessment by the state auditor of the social and financial impacts that occur when health insurance companies deny coverage for certain types of health care to individuals based on gender identity is advancing in the state House. Tribune-Herald.

Judge rules Bristol-Myers, Sanofi must pay Hawaii $834M over Plavix. Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Sanofi were ordered to pay the state of Hawaii more than $834 million for illegally marketing their blockbuster blood-thinning drug Plavix in a manner that put some users’ lives at risk, especially those of Asian or Pacific-Island decent. Bloomberg News. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

US Spike In Deaths Surpassed Official COVID-19 Counts, But Not In Hawaii. Hawaii’s COVID deaths appear to have been offset by reductions in tourist deaths, traffic and flu fatalities and even suicides. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Receives $87M To Open Coronavirus Vaccination Sites. The grants will help expedite a vaccination process that has been slower than anticipated in states across the country, including Hawaii. Associated Press.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 15: 35 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii health officials reported 35 new COVID-19 infections statewide on Monday, including 25 on Oahu, seven on Maui, one on Molokai and two residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Land Board approves Ala Moana beach nourishment plan. The City of Honolulu’s application to add sand to the beach at Ala Moana Regional Park was approved Friday by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources after a public hearing. Star-Advertiser.

Court Orders Sale Of Miske-Owned Tuna Longliner. The alleged crime boss had owned the fishing vessel for years but transferred it to a company controlled by the widow of his dead son as federal investigators closed in. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Soldiers spruce up Makaeo. Active duty soldiers with the Oahu-based U.S. Army 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division preparing for training at Pohakuloa Training Area descended upon the path at Old Kona Airport Park on Friday and Saturday to give back to the Big Island community by providing some much-needed muscle and care to the site’s main anchialine pond. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaiian Electric in Maui County Reached 50% Renewable Energy for 2020. Hawaiian Electric announced Maui County for the first time hit the 50 percent mark in its renewable portfolio standard, at 50.8 percent, with a mix of solar, wind and biofuels. Maui Now.

Wai‘anapanapa State Park access requires a pass starting March 1. Reservations launching online today are now required for visitor and commercial operator access starting March 1. Maui News.

New hotel has April opening set in Wailea. The AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea was scheduled to open this month, but was delayed to allow more time to adjust to COVID-19 protocols, said General Manager Kaleo Kenui. Maui News.

Kauai

Court’s second attempt at jury trial starts today. The Kaua’i County Fifth Circuit Court’s first jury trial in almost a year is scheduled to commence today. Garden Island.

Comments wanted for $50K economic diversification grants. A vertical high-density environment controlled farming facility, mental health training and a land-based coral nursery are all projects currently up for public discourse in the hopes of landing $50,000 in funding. Garden Island.

Ige nixes furloughs, Green leads Caldwell in campaign donations, FEC sends $24M for broadband improvements, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. David Ige

Ige: No Furloughs Necessary This Year. In the latest wrinkle in the long-running saga of proposed public worker furloughs, Gov. David Ige said Wednesday it won’t be necessary to impose twice-per-month furloughs on state workers on July 1 after all. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers Want Their ‘Gifts Of Aloha’ Back. Several bills this session attempt to shirk new rules from the state Ethics Commission. Civil Beat.

State senators advance confirmation of acting labor director. Despite ongoing problems with the state’s unemployment system, the acting state labor director got a vote of confidence from members of the state Senate. Hawaii News Now.

Senate Bill Would Force Dept. of Education to Report COVID-19 Cases by School. Right now, the Department of Education only reveals COVID-19 cases by complex area. KITV4.

Green Leads Caldwell In Campaign Donations For Next Governor’s Race. The lieutenant governor and former Honolulu mayor are likely competitors in the 2022 contest. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boy Nick Ochs Charged With Criminal Conspiracy. A new indictment unsealed Wednesday by the U.S. Justice Department accuses Ochs of several new crimes that carry heftier penalties. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Annual police misconduct reports released for the first time with officer names.  Annual police misconduct reports from all the counties have been submitted to the Hawaii State Legislature. KHON2.

FCC Awards $24 Million to Hawaiian Telecom for Rural Broadband Deployment. The Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund has awarded Hawaiian Telecom $24 million to continue deploying fiber broadband service to unserved and underserved rural areas in Hawai‘i. Maui Now.

Bills would make catalytic converter theft a felony in Hawaii. Increasing demand for stolen precious metals contained in vehicle catalytic converters has prompted two bills that would make thefts of catalytic converters a Class C felony and require more documentation from sellers and Hawaii scrap dealers willing to buy them. Star-Advertiser.

With COVID precautions in place, influenza cases in Hawaii are near zero. Hawaii has so far dodged what health experts feared could be a “twindemic,” with COVID-19 combined with the flu, which has virtually disappeared since last summer. Star-Advertiser.

Remaining diligent; Contact tracers still at work as COVID vaccine rollout continues. Nearly 300 contact tracers are still at work in Hawaii as the focus in the fight against COVID-19 has turned largely to ongoing vaccination efforts. Tribune-Herald.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 3: 74 New COVID-19 Infections And 4 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 74 new cases Wednesday, including 41 on Oahu, 23 on Maui, four on the Big Island, and six Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Chief Susan Ballard says HPD still investigating COVID overtime violations. The Honolulu Police Department is continuing its investigation into apparent overtime violations within the department’s COVID-19 enforcement teams, according to Police Chief Susan Ballard. Star-Advertiser.

‘Significant’ Disparity In Use Of Force Questioned By Honolulu Police Commission. Honolulu police commissioners say they are concerned over the Honolulu Police Department’s treatment of Pacific Islanders, Native Hawaiians and Black people when it comes to use of force and even arrest rates. Civil Beat.

Judge Sends Former Cop Who Flipped On The Kealohas To Prison. A former Big Island firefighter who admitted to having an affair with Katherine Kealoha received a much more lenient sentence. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

The teen suspect in a nationwide cell phone hacking scheme was arrested in Aina Haina on Wednesday morning and now faces three felony charges. HPD sources say he’s just 16 years old and in the 11th grade. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kern confirmed: Council votes 5-4 on new planning director. Zendo Kern was confirmed Wednesday as county planning director by the skin of his teeth, after Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball switched her vote and decided to support him. West Hawaii Today.

COVID Test Surplus Could Help Reopen Big Island High Schools. The discovery of a surplus of COVID-19 antigen tests has created a potential path to bring Big Island high school students back into the classroom. Big Island Now.

Council approves funding for changes to Kalanianaole project. The County Council passed a bill to provide funding for changes to the long-delayed Kalanianaole Avenue improvement project. Tribune-Herald.

Community Opposition Grows in Kohala Over Proposed Development Near Pololū Valley Lookout. The proposal would improve access to the area’s popular hiking trail, but it could also open the door to residential development on the valley ridgeline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Settlement claims bills include 2 items related to Big Island charter schools. A pair of companion bills introduced in the state Legislature requesting more than $1.73 million to pay off claims against the state include a couple of Hawaii Island cases, both including Big Island public charter schools. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County granted $40M in rent, utilities assistance from COVID relief. Maui Mayor Mike Victorino announced on Tuesday, Feb. 2, that Maui County is set to receive $40 million for relief from delinquent rent and utility bills in the next round of COVID relief funding. KHON2.

Maui Shark Encounter Detailed, Experts Say Bite Mark is Consistent with a White Shark. Maui Now. KHON2.

Kauai

Amendments made to Westside beach driving bill. Wednesday, the state Senate’s Committee on Land and Water amended and removed Kekaha Beach Park specific portions of a bill that would require permits to drive on the beach. Garden Island.

Wailua Golf Course short $250K. Keeping tee-time rates low at the Wailua Golf Course comes at a price. This fiscal year, that may be about $250,000 that the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation is estimating the Golf Fund will fall short. Garden Island.

Monk Seals Found Dead In Kauai Likely Drowned In Fishing Nets. Two endangered Hawaiian monk seals initially thought to have been shot or beaten last year in Kauai likely drowned after getting trapped in fishing nets, officials said Wednesday. Civil Beat. Big Island Now. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Pandemic or not, Hawaii still satisfies tourists, Green says gatherings may be able to resume in May, vaccine distribution irks and confuses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Hawaiian kayakers at beach ©2021 All Hawaii News

Most mainland visitors satisfied with trips to Hawaii, study says. Most visitors are aware of Hawaii’s pre-travel testing program, and are mostly satisfied with their recent trips to the islands, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, but 21% are still having issues with the process. Star-Advertiser.

HTA survey: Visitors satisfied with Hawaii trips, despite COVID limitations. Most visitors to the state in late December and early January were satisfied with their experience, despite the limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Tourism Survey: 85% of Visitors Rated Trip Excellent Despite COVID-19 Challenges. The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) conducted a special online survey of US mainland visitors to gauge their experience with Hawaiʻi’s Safe Travels program and overall trip satisfaction and found 85 percent rated their trip “Excellent” and 94 percent said their trip exceeded or met expectations. Maui Now.

=====

Lt. Gov. Josh Green expects large gatherings will safely resume in May. More than 150,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered across the state, and the rate of people receiving vaccinations continues to increase. Star-Advertiser.

Green Proposes New Plan For Reopening Hawaii As Vaccine Distribution Ramps Up. The proposal calls for reopening interisland — and then mainland travel — to people who have been vaccinated for COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Green: At current vaccination rates, larger events could return this spring. Lt. Gov. Josh Green, a Big Island physician, said Monday that he anticipates Hawaii will be safe enough to permit larger gatherings this spring. Tribune-Herald.

=====

Casino could increase sex trade, report warns. A state agency that works toward equality for women and girls issued a blistering report Monday outlining the ills associated with casinos, particularly as they relate to the sex trade, marking the latest challenge for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands as it tries to move forward on a contentious proposal to build a casino resort to bring in desperately needed revenue for housing on Hawaiian trust lands. Star-Advertiser. Garden Island. KHON2. KITV4.

Hawaii GOP resignations over tweets reflect national Republican divide. The local head of the Republican Party, Shirlene DelaCruz Ostrov, has resigned following an unauthorized series of tweets on the group’s Twitter account that defended people supporting baseless QAnon conspiracy theories and led her to reassure the Jewish community that the comments have no place in our party. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Schools To Get $56M in Title I Funds This Year. The amount reflects a $2 million increase from the same type of appropriation last year. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Airport upgrades are on a roll, but special-fund sweep looms. As the state stares down a multibillion-dollar budget shortfall, some are looking to tap cash in a slew of special funds. That includes transportation accounts, money the airports division says it needs to keep up with new projects and fixes. KHON2.

New bill attempts to raise penalties for stolen catalytic converter sales. One car part that continues to be targeted by thieves is catalytic converters, which if stolen, can put a person out a thousand dollars to fix. KHON2. KITV4.

Bills target the use of ‘deep fakes’ in Hawaii. Deep fake technology enables the manipulation of photos or videos where one person in an existing image or video is replaced with another. Tribune-Herald.

Despite the state’s efforts to explain its phased approach, complaints are pouring in. Lt. Gov. Josh Green says the Department of Health has received hundreds of calls from businesses asking whether their employees qualify for the vaccination. Hawaii News Now.

Dr. Sarah Park leaves DOH; has been on paid leave since Sept. 4. The embattled state epidemiologist blamed for slowing Hawaii’s coronavirus response has quietly left the Department of Health. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates Say Pacific Islanders Should Be On Hawaii’s Vaccination List. Here’s Why. Service providers fear Hawaii’s vaccination effort is failing to reach Pacific Islander communities that have been hit hardest by the coronavirus. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 1: 90 New COVID-19 Infections. Hawaii health officials reported 90 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, including 57 on Oahu, 19 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, one on Kauai, and six residents diagnosed outside of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City offers extension option on second installment for real property. The City says it will offer taxpayers an alternative option due to the ongoing pandemic. KHON2.

Roger Morton named city Transportation Services director; Jon Nouchi returns as deputy. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi has appointed Roger Morton as the city’s Department of Transportation Services director, effective today. Star-Advertiser.

New Police Disciplinary Reports Reveal Serious Misconduct By Dozens Of Officers. The Honolulu Police Department disciplined more officers in 2020 than it has in at least three years, according to a new summary of misconduct filed with the Legislature on Monday. Civil Beat. KHON2.

‘Super powers’ proposed for Aloha Stadium replacement agency. Redeveloping the state’s deteriorating Aloha Stadium with a private partner could speed up this year under a “super power” bill introduced at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Red Hill fuel tanks have always leaked, Sierra Club says. From the beginning, the Navy’s Red Hill underground fuel tanks have leaked, said David Kimo Frankel, an attorney for the Sierra Club. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable rentals available in upscale condo tower at Ala Moana. The developer of Azure Ala Moana, predominantly a condominium high-rise at Keeaumoku and Makaloa streets, expects to hold a lottery in August to select tenants for 78 affordable rental units in the tower. Star-Advertiser.

As Waikiki Beach continues to erode, another project to replenish sand is starting up. Through a public-private partnership, a beach maintenance project using hydraulic dredging and pumping will move 20,000 cubic yards of sand offshore onto Waikiki Beach. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth hopes to be cleared to return to work this week. Mayor Mitch Roth hopes to be cleared to return to work this week as he continues his recovery from a Jan. 9 heart attack and subsequent procedure to have a pacemaker and defibrillator implanted. West Hawaii Today.

Ethics Board asked to invalidate Rodenhurst: Petition alleges Richards should have recused himself on confirmation. A Big Island resident is asking the county Board of Ethics to invalidate Public Works Director Ikaika Rodenhurst’s confirmation by the County Council, saying Kohala Councilman Tim Richards should have recused himself from voting because he served as a reference on Rodenhurst’s resume. West Hawaii Today.

Hapuna Beach Facilities to Return as Soon as This Week. Post-ocean showers and more convenient bathroom breaks should again be part of the Hapuna Beach experience in the coming days. Big Island Now.

Taking better care of the ‘aina: Pelekane Watershed improvements to mitigate ecological degradation. A two-year effort to protect and improve water quality and ecosystem health in the Pelekane Watershed was recently completed by The Kohala Center. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui K-12 Schools To Receive $6.35 Million for Public Schools in Low Income Communities. Hawai‘i K-12 schools will receive a projected $56,517,953 in new federal funding for the 2021-2022 school year to support teacher professional development, additional educators, new technology, and other academic programs at public schools serving low income students. Maui Now.

29% of homes in Maui County have installed rooftop solar. State sees a 55 percent increase year over year. Maui News.

Maui Humane Society reopens after week-long COVID-19 closure. The Maui Humane Society reopened for appointments and surgeries today after undergoing staff testing and quarantine following “limited, but direct exposure” to COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Water shutdown, bridge closures scheduled in Hanapepe. The county Department of Water announced an overnight water-service shutdown on Hana Road in Hanapepe from 9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2 to 5 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 3, weather-permitting, in order to perform waterline-installation and improvements work. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi Non-Profit Rallies to Buy, Restore 600-Year-Old Hawaiian Fishpond. A grassroots effort is underway for a local non-profit to purchase an ancient Hawaiian fishpond on Kauaʻi. The Alakoko Fishpond was recently put on the market with a pricetag of $3 million dollars. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii hospitals could reach capacity in 6 weeks, Kapiolani nurses vote to strike, Proud Boy in court today for role in Capitol riot, coronavirus vaccinations may not be finished until Labor Day, Big Island mayor hospitalized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green administers coronavirus vaccine Dec. 29, 2020 PC:from Facebook

Hawaii Hospitals to Reach Capacity in Six Weeks if Cases Continue to Surge. The holiday surge of COVID-19 cases the state was bracing for has started. Hospitals are expected to be heavily affected in the coming weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

State releases latest COVID vaccine plan. Hawaii health officials expect the COVID-19 vaccine to be available to all residents by the end of this summer once the top three priority groups are taken care of. Maui News.

DOH: Over 35,000 COVID-19 vaccines administered statewide. As of Friday, health officials said 91,700 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been received by the state — 54,600 of those being the Pfizer-BioNTech brand, and 37,100 of the Moderna vaccine. So far, over 35,000 vaccinations have been administered statewide. Hawaii News Now.

Blood Bank of Hawaii asks COVID-19 survivors to donate plasma to help save lives. Only about 200 of the more than 23,000 residents who've tested positive for COVID-19 have donated their plasma, which has antibodies that can help save other patients. KITV4.

=====

Nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children have voted to authorize a strike about six months into bargaining for a new contract in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

After unsuccessful negotiations, nurses of Kapiolani Medical Center vote to strike. The nurses of Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children have voted to authorize a strike amid their ongoing negotiations with the hospital, the Hawai’i Nurses Association said Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

What would the impacts be if nurses strike at Kapiolani Medical Center? A total of 93 percent of nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children voted to authorize a strike against the hospital forcing the big question: what happens next and how will this impact the community during a pandemic. KHON2.

Kapiolani Medical Center nurses vote to authorize strike, CEO commits to reach a fair agreement. The nurses of Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children have voted by a 93% margin to authorize a strike. KITV4.

=====

Hawaii lawyer anticipates release of his client seen in mob that stormed U.S. Capitol. The lawyer for Proud Boys Hawaii founder and Capitol riot participant Nick Ochs said he expects his client will be released from jail this week. Hawaii News Now.

“Proud Boys Hawaii” leader to appear in federal court for alleged involvement in US Capitol riot. “Proud Boys Hawaii” leader and former political candidate Nicolas Ochs is scheduled to virtually “appear” in federal court on Monday, Jan. 11, after being arrested by the FBI for his alleged involvement in the US Capitol riot. KHON2.

Hawaii Proud Boy Charged By DOJ After Raiding US Capitol. Nicholas Ochs, a state House candidate and outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump, was an “easy target” for the feds, his attorney says. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boys Leader Arrested In Connection With Capitol Riot. Nicholas Ochs was apprehended by federal authorities in Hawaii after a warrant for his arrest was issued by a federal judge in Washington DC. Hawaii Public Radio.

 =====

A rise in coronavirus cases on the West Coast could mean fewer travelers visiting the islands. As Hawaii tries to claw its way out of the worst economic decline in decades, California is a key to the revival of tourism. California is the source- market for most of visitors. Star-Advertiser.
Federal labor department to investigate Hawaii’s unemployment insurance system. The Federal Department of Labor is opening two investigations into Hawaii’s unemployment insurance system. One investigation centers around a Legal Aid allegation of discrimination because of nationality or citizenship, while the other is part of a nationwide investigation of fraud and verification procedures. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii businesses fear unemployment tax increases will ruin their economic recovery. Local businesses are bracing for at least a tripling of their unemployment taxes, which without legislative intervention they say would disrupt any statewide economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bankruptcies fell in 2020 despite pandemic. The number of bankruptcy cases ended up plunging 8.6% to 1,524, according to data released last week from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Defense spending ‘incredibly important’ for Hawaii during COVID-19 pandemic. Defense spending in Hawaii — about $5 billion annually in payroll and $2 billion-plus in contracts — has been “an incredibly important stabilizing force” in the state with an economy otherwise wracked by COVID-19, Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, said Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Gaps In Hawaii Eviction Moratorium Leave Some Renters Scrambling For Housing. The state eviction moratorium doesn’t protect every renter. And being kicked out when you’re unemployed makes finding housing much harder. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Teachers Get Their Turn To Receive COVID-19 Vaccines. Teachers on Kauai can start receiving COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as Monday, while those elsewhere in Hawaii will be able to get them by the end of the month into early February, the state teachers’ union said Friday. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 10: 200 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 200 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Sunday, including 128 on Oahu, 30 in Maui County, 12 on the Big Island, nine on Kauai and 21 residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

With triple-digit case spikes, Mayor Blangiardi focuses on how to move the city forward. Despite the steady increase in cases, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the island will remain in Tier 2 for now. Oahu’s current 7-day average daily cases is 124 and a 4.4 percent. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Spent $150,000 In CARES Funds On A Robot Dog. Flush with CARES Act cash, the Honolulu Police Department has spent millions on what one officer called toys. Civil Beat.

Reluctant to go; just a few regrets, Mayor Kirk Caldwell says. Kirk Caldwell handed the keys to the third-floor corner office at Honolulu Hale to incoming Mayor Rick Blangiardi on Jan. 2 — with only a few regrets but not just a little reluctance. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm unveils 100-day plan Tuesday. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm will be unveiling his 100-day plan to reform the Department of the Prosecuting attorney on Tuesday. KHON2.

Longtime Rail Officials Ousted As New CEO Joins HART. Bill Brennan and Joyce Oliveira were two of the longest-serving employees at a tumultuous agency that’s seen heavy turnover. Civil Beat.

Another case of COVID-19 confirmed in a city bus operator. The city said a bus driver tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Legislators step into conflict between University of Hawaii and Aloha Stadium. Some legislators say they haven’t closed the door on the Stadium Authority finding a pathway for the University of Hawaii football team to play at crumbling Aloha Stadium and are urging the parties to find common ground. Star-Advertiser.

Replacement work avoids funding halt at Aloha Stadium. A state agency has sidestepped what could have been a costly halt in a long- running effort to have a private developer redevelop Aloha Stadium and surrounding state land in Halawa. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Wahiawa solar farm divides community over food vs. fuel. A developer is proposing a solar farm near Wahiawa that could reduce electricity bills for 1,100 area households, but the project site on fallow prime farmland has drawn community opposition. Star-Advertiser.

Miske Case Weaves Together Disparate Strands Of Past Crimes. As information comes out in the case of alleged crime boss Michael J. Miske Jr., it looks like the gang was operating in plain sight. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized with chest pains. Roth, 56, who was elected in November, went to North Hawaii Community Hospital, was later transported to the Hilo Medical Center, where he was treated and had a stent implanted, according to a county news release. Star-Advertiser.

Roth hospitalized with chest pains: Stent implanted, now under medical evaluation. Mayor Mitch Roth was being evaluated by doctors and Managing Director Lee Lord has taken over as acting mayor after Roth had a stent implanted after suffering chest pain Saturday evening. West Hawaii Today.

Doctors Evaluating Mayor Roth After Hospitalization. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the hospital overnight, and is being evaluated by doctors following a medical procedure. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Mayor Hospitalized After Emergency Stent Placement. Hawai‘i County Mayor Mitch Roth was hospitalized over the weekend with chest pains. Big Island Now.

Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth taken to North Hawaii Community Hospital Saturday night. Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the North Hawaii Community Hospital in the evening on Saturday, Jan. 9 for what he described as discomfort in his chest. KHON2.

Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized with chest pain. Mayor Mitch Roth was being evaluated by doctors and Managing Director Lee Lord has taken over as acting mayor after Roth had a stent implanted after suffering chest pain Saturday evening, according to a news release Sunday morning. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized for chest discomfort. Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth has been taken to the hospital, according to county officials. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Roth taken to hosptial, Lee Lord acting mayor. Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the North Hawaii Community Hospital last night with discomfort in his chest. KITV4.

=====

Public unhappy over lack of access: Pandemic, technology and tension during long council session. A heavy and sometimes controversial agenda, coupled with technical problems during a global pandemic, brought a new set of challenges to the County Council last week, during a meeting that saw testifiers grumble about lack of access and a mayor appear to step outside his lane to advise council members on Sunshine Law issues. West Hawaii Today.

Pandemic does little to slow down Big Island home sales. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, home sales on Hawaii Island in 2020 increased from the previous year — the only island in the state where that occurred. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

COVID-19 Surge Is Largely Blamed On Holiday Gatherings. Officials point to holiday-related gatherings including an outbreak at a condo complex that was believed to have started with a choir practice. Civil Beat.

Harbor Lights cluster reaches 92 COVID cases. The COVID-19 cluster at the Harbor Lights condominium complex is now up to 92 cases, with more testing to continue, a county official and a Harbor Lights representative said on Friday. Maui News.

King, panel to discuss COVID-19 rise on Maui. Maui County Council Member Kelly King will host a virtual town hall from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday to discuss the recent surge of COVID cases on Maui and the county’s response to the pandemic. Maui News.

Councilmember King to Host Town Hall Webinar on COVID-19, Jan. 11. In response to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Maui County community, Maui County Councilmember Kelly King of South Maui will host a virtual town hall webinar on Monday, Jan. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. Maui Now.

Sun rises on new sunscreen era. For eco-friendly sunscreen makers like Maui’s Jenna Davis, Hawaii’s new law banning sunscreens with coral-harming chemicals couldn’t have come at a better time — and the pandemic couldn’t have come at a worse moment. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai utility, AES propose dual-energy project. Kauai’s nonprofit electric utility cooperative anticipates boosting its renewable-energy production by 25% with a proposed hydro and solar electricity project. Star-Advertiser.

Solar-hydro project moves forward. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative signed agreements with The AES Corporation for the development, construction and operation of the cooperative’s solar-pumped, storage hydro project, also known as the West Kaua‘i Energy Project. Garden Island.

Meeting set for Hanalei base yard projects. The County of Kaua‘i invites the public to participate in a virtual public meeting regarding the Hanalei base yard office and garage project. Garden Island.