Hawaii Tourism Authority could be dissolved, 4 Honolulu police charged in chase crash, Green's cabinet appointees face tough time in Legislature, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaii Tourism Authority Is A Step Closer To Being Dissolved. Hawaii lawmakers moved toward dramatically reshaping how the island state markets itself as a tourist destination on Thursday, when a joint House committee voted to approve a Senate bill dissolving the Hawaii Tourism Authority.  Civil Beat.

Senators Reject Governor’s Pick For Economy Chief But Give Thumbs-Up To New DHHL Director. Hawaii lawmakers divided over governor’s latest nominees. Two more of Gov. Josh Green nominees to lead state departments had rough job interviews Thursday by Senate committees, with one receiving a rejection recommendation. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Chief Energy Officer Mark Glick is the latest cabinet confirmation. Ten of Gov. Josh Green's administrative appointees have received Senate committee recommendations so far — a crucial milestone before the nominees appear before the full Senate to be confirmed. Hawaii Public Radio.

House highlights bills to assist families, keiki and environment. The state House passed its version of the state budget and other bills that leaders say will assist struggling families through tax relief, help them finance rooftop solar systems, improve the environment and lead to “a sustainable future for our state.” Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Following Labor Department pushback, paid family leave proposal dies. Efforts to establish a family leave system in Hawaii similar to unemployment insurance have died again at the state Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Computer science mandate for Hawaii public schools debated. A bill to require the state Board of Education to determine whether computer science should become a requirement for public school graduation is moving through the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Cops Have Jurisdiction On Homelands, But DHHL Says Policing Is Patchy. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wanted the Legislature to pass Senate Bill 490, which would have given the Hawaiian Homes Commission its own police powers, allowing the chair to hire law enforcement officers dedicated to Hawaiian homelands. The bill died after passing two committees. Civil Beat.

Oahu

4 Honolulu police officers charged in crash that paralyzed teen. Four Honolulu police officers face felony charges in connection with a September 2021 police pursuit that ended in a crash that the officers allegedly fled and conspired to cover up. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Honolulu considers allowing some commercial activities at parks, beaches with uniform rules. Honolulu's Bill 19 proposes creating a uniform set of rules for commercial activities at Oʻahu parks — allowing businesses to resume with some restrictions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Navy discloses another Red Hill spill. Approximately 1,500 gallons of concentrated firefighting suppressant containing toxic chemicals spilled at the Navy’s Red Hill underground fuel facility on Dec. 7, 2019, the Navy disclosed to regulators this week, bringing the number of known spills at the facility to three and elevating concerns that dangerous chemicals, called PFAS, still may be lurking in the environment as a result. Star-Advertiser.

Speeding in Honolulu could cost you hundreds. On Oahu speed is a huge factor with traffic fatalities. The Honolulu Police Department credits half of their traffic fatalities involving a motorist driving over the posted speed limit. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

HVO lowers Mauna Loa alert level. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has downgraded its alert level for Mauna Loa after more than three months of calm. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Mauna Loa Observatory “Back in Action." The Mauna Loa Observatory is back measuring the carbon dioxide in the Earth’s atmosphere, three months after the end of the lava eruption that forced scientists to abandon the facility. Big Island Video News.

Proposed new HVO site could benefit students. Plans for a new 60,000-square-foot facility on state land at the intersection of Komohana and Nowelo streets in Hilo are taking shape, and could provide for more partnerships between the observatory and university faculty and staff. Tribune-Herald.

Mobile health clinic unveiled. A new mobile health care clinic has arrived on the Big Island courtesy of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies, a Hawaii-based nonprofit dedicated to improving maternal, child and family health care. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Michelle L. Drewyer appointed to fill judicial vacancy created by now-Maui Mayor Bissen. With her selection, the Second Circuit Court of Maui County will fully achieve gender parity, with two female and two male judges. Maui Now.

Maui police ramp up foot patrols in Paia amid merchants’ complaints. Police are ramping up enforcement efforts on Maui’s North Shore after repeated complaints from merchants about illegal activity in the area. Hawaii News Now.

Input sought for management of Kīpahulu Forest Reserve. Management efforts on the southeast slopes of Haleakalā aim to gradually restore the native forest ecosystem of Maui’s Kīpahulu Forest Reserve.  Maui Now.

Lahainaluna’s stadium to undergo renovations. Project will impact the track and field season; graduation ceremony is moved. Maui News.

Hawaiʻi Department of Health issues red placard to restaurant in Pā‘ia. The Hawai‘i Department of Health issued a red “Closed” placard to Café Mambo to protect public health. The restaurant, owned and operated by Betham Pacific LLC, is located at 30 Baldwin Avenue in Pā‘ia.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i county council to stop accepting Zoom testimony. Starting next week, the Kaua‘i County Council will no longer be accepting testimony via Zoom. Officials say the change was prompted by state statutes, which might require meetings that use interactive conference technology to be repeated if the connection gets interrupted. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Hazelton appointed as Kaua‘i governor’s representative. In her new role with the Gov. Josh Green administration, Dana Hazelton will be the governor’s “eyes and ears” for the Kaua‘i community. Garden Island.

Elections, eruption, corruption among 2022 highlights, Honolulu searches for landfill site, Maui police shoot, kill reported suicidal man, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Loa eruption over Hilo ©2022 All Hawaii News

Elections, eruptions and corruption top Hawaii stories for 2022. Once again the COVID-19 pandemic and the Red Hill water contamination crisis grabbed their fair share of headlines, but federal, state and county elections and a slew of federal corruption cases that shook public trust in government institutions were running topics throughout 2022.  Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lost notable people in 2022, but their legacies live on.  From a royal Hawaiian heiress, to a world-renown kumu hula, Hawaii bid a fond aloha to a number of notable people in 2022. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Josh Green announces 7 more appointments.  Hawaii Gov. Josh Green has announced seven more appointments for his administration, including new Deputy of the Department of Human Resources Development Ryan Yamane, Deputy of the Department of Transportation’s Airports Division Jimmy Tokioka and the first Director of Wellness and Resilience Tia Roberts Hartsock. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Big Island Now.  Maui Now.  Kauai Now.

New COVID-19 testing requirement further delays Chinese tourism to Hawaii. Next week also marks the start of China’s massive “chunyun” migration event when hundreds of millions of people travel in and out of China for Lunar New Year family reunions. That 40 day travel period could be a global super spreader event if precautions aren’t taken. Hawaii News Now.

As year ends, pause in economic growth expected. Surging construction demands, recovery of tourism may help skirt harsh recession. Hawaii’s economic growth will hit a pause in the new year, but the state still looks likely to escape a harsh recession with the return of international travelers fueling the tourism industry and rising construction demands. Maui News.

Be mindful: Fireworks celebrations can impact veterans and pets. New Year’s Eve can be a stressful time for veterans suffering from PTSD and pets who are sensitive to loud noises as fireworks blanket neighborhoods with a barrage of bangs. West Hawaii Today. Garden Island.

Oahu

Potential landfill sites on Oʻahu may require a bill modification to make progress. The city had until this week to come up with a site for a new landfill for Oʻahu’s trash, but state lawmakers then passed a bill which added constraints on conservation land and residential areas.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Concealed-carry weapon license issued on Oahu.  The first concealed-carry weapon license was issued in Honolulu on Thursday as police work their way through about 600 applications from citizens seeking to bear arms in public. Star-Advertiser.

New Red Hill health clinic on Oahu off to a rocky start.  Military families had been told by the Defense Health Agency Region Indo-Pacific that they could begin booking appointments Tuesday by calling the TRICARE Nurse Advice Line and that appointments would be scheduled starting Jan. 3. Star-Advertiser.

Police step up staffing, enforcement on Oahu to usher in 2023.  Honolulu police are increasing staffing on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day and encouraging partygoers to drive sober, abide by fireworks laws and not park on the side of the freeway to watch pyrotechnics. Star-Advertiser.

Frustrations grow over Kaaawa recreation center left run down, unused for years.  The Swanzy Beach Park recreation building has been closed for the last five year due to staffing issues. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Burian named acting chief — for less than three weeks.  The Hawaii County Police Commission on Thursday unanimously selected Assistant Police Chief Andrew Burian to be the Big Island’s acting chief of police until Honolulu police Maj. Benjamin Moszkowicz is sworn in Jan. 17 as the department’s chief. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Waikoloa Solar + Storage Project To Begin Full Operations By April 2023.  The solar and battery storage project is now being tested up to 85% of its capacity, and will generate 42.2 megawatts when fully operational. The largest solar and battery storage project on Hawaiʻi island is on schedule to begin full operations by April 2023, or earlier. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui police fatally shoot armed man.  At around 7 p.m., Maui Police Department officers responded to a report of a suicidal male, age 29, at a Kahului residence. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

How One Hawaiian Family Battled In Court For 20 Years To Reclaim Ancestral Land. In Kauaula Valley, one family is working to show others what it takes to reclaim ancestral lands. Civil Beat.

Maui Health ends COVID-19 community vaccination lobby clinic.  The final clinic date at the Maui Memorial Medical Center lobby was Friday, Dec. 16, 2022.  Maui Now.

Funding bill includes $13M for Kaupo Ranch acquisition. Nearly $13 million in additional funding for the possible purchase of Kaupo Ranch for the National Park Service is included in the omnibus funding bill recently passed by Congress, Hawaii U.S. Rep. Ed Case announced Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Public input sought in Kaua‘i Food Access Plan. Malama Kaua‘i is hosting four Community Food Access Meetings, starting Jan. 4, 2023, to focus on how to increase local food access and create sustainable food systems on Kaua‘i. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Gun carry laws taking shape, Honolulu property taxes to increase, Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcano eruptions cease, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi counties discuss where guns will be prohibited under 'sensitive places' bills. Local governments across the country are discussing laws to establish “sensitive places,” where concealed firearms are not allowed. One bill has already passed through the Hawaiʻi County Council, and a similar bill was introduced at the Honolulu City Council. Hawaii Public Radio.

OHA: Carmen Hulu Lindsey Will Remain Chair Of Board Of Trustees. The board also voted for Mililani Trask to serve as vice chair in its first meeting since the Nov. 8 election. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Career academies gain traction in Hawaii public schools. A career academy is essentially a school within a school. Students and teachers are sectioned into a closely knit “learning community,” and much of the coursework and extracurricular activities are designed to get students acquainted with their chosen fields. Star-Advertiser.

Tourism contract snags prompt call for reform.  The eleventh-hour decision to rescind the multimillion­-dollar award for the state’s top U.S. tourism contract by the outgoing director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is likely to stand, thereby prompting a third solicitation as the controversial procurement process heads into a second year. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutor Describes Gruesome Details In The Killing Of A Hawaii Prison Inmate In Arizona. A jury will decide whether Miti Maugaotega Jr. should be executed for the gang-related murder of of Bronson Nunuha in 2010. Civil Beat.

UH Pi‘o Summit aims to tackle water sovereignty, justice. The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Hawaiinuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge is slated to host an inaugural Pi‘o Summit on Thursday at the East-West Center, focusing on sovereignty and justice tied to wai, or water. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Nations Are Bracing To Lose Tons Of Tuna From Their Waters. The research shows that as much as 20% of the tuna stocks that swim through the waters of at least 10 Central and Western Pacific nations, such as the Solomon Islands, the Marshall Islands and Kiribati, are expected to relocate farther east over the next 30 years or so, as climate change alters the prevailing ocean weather patterns. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Housing boom to boost Honolulu property taxes.  The overall assessed value of taxable properties on Oahu is set to increase 12.4% for the 2023-2024 tax year,  according to a news release from the City and County of Honolulu’s Real Property Assessment Division. Star-Advertiser.

Fire Sprinkler Retrofits Gain Traction As Building Owners Eye Rising Insurance Costs. Five years after the Marco Polo tragedy some Honolulu building managers are considering the benefits of the costly fix. Amid a terse political debate about fire safety in Honolulu, managers in at at least 10 older high-rise buildings in the city are pushing ahead to install fire sprinklers for the first time, according to city records and interviews with condominium associations. Civil Beat.

Honolulu EMS ‘stretched thin’ as low morale, staff shortages takes major toll. A shortage of emergency workers has been taking ambulances of Oahu’s streets and paramedics are among those complaining. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Suit includes reports Navy knew about ‘forever chemicals’ in groundwater a year ago.  A Red Hill lawsuit against the U.S. government has been expanded to include reports the military knew about toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” in the groundwater before the public did. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Plans to prevent Waikiki from flooding still in discussion. After more than 20 years of planning to prevent a flooding disaster in Waikiki, the debate continues. The flood walls were a hot topic at a virtual public meeting Tuesday night to help engineers come up with a new proposal. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island eruptions come to an end. Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory on Tuesday declared both the Mauna Loa and Kilauea eruptions over, saying the production of lava, volcanic gases and seismicity on both mountains either ended or diminished to negligible amounts. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

‘They know better’: Finalist for police chief criticized for accepting free hotel stay worth $1,953.  A retired Hawaii Police Department assistant chief told the Tribune-Herald on Tuesday that a HPD major in the running for police chief and a captain who answers directly to her shouldn’t have accepted four nights in a Kailua-Kona hotel paid for by the Ironman Triathlon. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Police Officers Say They Want Their Next Chief To Make Training A Priority. Unlike many other law enforcement jurisdictions across the nation, Hawaii County has no requirement that police officers receive what’s called annual recall training. The training provides instruction in areas such as use of force, firearms, hazardous materials and legal matters. Civil Beat. West Hawaii Today.  Big Island Now.

Maui

Inaugural Youth Council highlights local issues in legislative package. The inaugural Maui County Youth Council, a pilot project aimed at getting students involved in local government, adopted resolutions at its Dec. 5 meeting for inclusion in the 2022 Maui County Youth legislative package, Maui County Council Member Kelly Takaya King announced. Maui News.

Maui News employees fear their livelihoods, ‘soul of newspaper’ is in jeopardy. Union representatives said Ogden Newspapers has engaged in practices that have led to multiple federal allegations of Unfair Labor Practices. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kauai mayor priorities align with Capitol and new governor. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami joins KHON2 live to talk about priorities ahead for the new year, with a new governor and state administration, as well as lawmakers at the Capitol in Honolulu.  KHON2.

Kaua‘i in-person voting went Republican.  If you only counted in-person voting, the midterm election would have been a red tsunami for Kaua‘i Republicans. Garden Island.

Kauai Fishermen Bring Deep-Sea Shrimp Back To The Dinner Table. The once popular seafood became somewhat of a delicacy over the years, but some consumers are now getting a fresh taste. Civil Beat.

Volcano alert level lowered, Hawaii Proud Boys founder sentenced to 4 years in Capitol insurrection, Gov. Green restarts Aloha Stadium partnership, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Loa eruption subsides PC:USGS

The USGS has lowered the Volcano Alert Level for Mauna Loa from WARNING to WATCH. The Volcano Alert Level for Mauna Loa was changed from WARNING to WATCH on Saturday, following the substantial reduction in lava output and volcanic gas emissions. Big Island Video News. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. 

Mauna Loa eruption update website. USGS.

Hawaii bankruptcy cases closing in on 17-year low.  Despite a possible recession looming in 2023, state residents have been able to dodge filing for financial relief, with the 78 cases in November marking the 10th time this year there have been fewer than 100 filings in a month. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian fishing permit approved for Papahanaumokuakea. A noncommercial and subsistence fishing permitting system has been recommended for federal waters surrounding the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument in a move to encourage Native Hawaiian cultural practices, and it will come with the ability for fishers to recoup up to $15,000 per subsistence fishing trip. Star-Advertiser.

Racial Disparities Vex Hawaii’s Child Welfare System. The causes are complex, but Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander parents are far more likely to have children removed by the state. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boys Founder Sentenced To Four Years In Prison. Nicholas Ochs, who was described by prosecutors as an “elder” in the extremist organization, was an active participant in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Plans To Update Its Noxious Weeds List. Local Environmentalists Aren’t Waiting. Hawaii has renewed efforts to revamp the official list of harmful weeds in the islands for the first time in 30 years as foreign flora threaten local crops, habitats and ecosystems.  Civil Beat.

Daniel K. Inouye’s legacy lives on 10 years after his death.  A dozen or so proteges of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye plan to lay red roses at his grave at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Saturday’s 10th anniversary of his death. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Governor greenlights public-private partnership for stadium. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green is restarting a public-private partnership pathway to develop the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District in Halawa, and he wants to shorten the project’s timeline by up to a year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Families demand transparency, answers after Red Hill groundwater samples detect ‘forever chemicals’.  Groundwater samples recently released that detected “forever chemicals” near the Red Hill Fuel facility come as no surprise to families impacted by the Red Hill crisis.  Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Nonprofit Finds Success In Treating Mentally Ill Homeless People After Hawaii Loosened Law. The Institute for Human Services, a local nonprofit, has assessed at least 100 homeless people over the last 14 months, and has provided medication for about 30 — a significant increase. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Marathon marks 50 years as 27,000 runners hit the pavement.  The Honolulu Marathon celebrated 50 years on Sunday as 27,000 runners participated in the grueling 26.2-mile race from Downtown to Hawaii Kai then back to Waikiki. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County’s ‘Sensitive Locations’ Bill To Limit Concealed Carry Areas Now In Effect. Hawaii County Council Bill 220 became law Friday, the deadline for Mayor Mitch Roth to either sign it or allow it to become law, according to the County Clerk’s office. Civil Beat.

Factory-built housing not quite a reality: Affordable housing options still working through the process.  More than two years after the County Council passed building code revisions increasing bureaucratic hurdles for locally constructed factory-built housing, a project that would have mass-produced such housing has stalled, as the county Building Division works to streamline a process that regulates the new requirements. West Hawaii Today.

‘No one’s told our story’: Jason Momoa series being filmed on isle; temporarily closes Kaimu market. Filming on Hawaii Island for Jason Momoa’s Apple TV limited series “Chief of War” will wrap by the end of the week, according to the production’s unit publicist. Tribune-Herald.

‘Clean the land for Pele’: Volunteers help remove rubbish from areas along Saddle Road. Volunteers and members of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I teamed up Friday to clean trash from the side of the Daniel K. Inouye Highway. Tribune-Herald. KITV4.

Maui

Multi-agency search ends for missing woman who apparently suffered shark bite off Maui. The woman never made it, but a snorkel set and part of a bathing suit was found. Hawaii News Now.

Court ruling favors kuleana family in West Maui.  The Hawaii Supreme Court late last month ruled in favor of a Maui kuleana family, who will now get a chance to again defend their claim of land ownership in West Maui’s Kaua’ula Valley. Maui News.

East Maui project hopes mosquito v. mosquito mating battle will save endangered birds.  In the latest effort to protect endangered forest birds in East Maui, state and federal officials are gearing up for a mosquito versus mosquito mating mission. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative confirms three candidates for board election.  The nominated candidates are, in alphabetical order: Dee M. Crowell, Kimberly K. Lord and Allan A. Smith. Crowell and Smith are current board members. Garden Island.

A Series Of Snafus Has Left Kauai’s Premier Concert Venue Dark. Kauai’s premier performing arts stage has been closed for more than four of the last six years, reducing the island’s ability to attract big name acts and frustrating a rural arts community left with scant alternative venue options. Civil Beat.

Farmers and ranchers optimistic about newly elected lawmakers, suspect killed by police after 10-hour standoff at Waikiki hotel, lava flow no immediate threat to Big Island highway, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cattle in Hawaii ©2022 All Hawaii News

Farmers And Ranchers Buoyed By New Contingent Of Food-Focused Politicians. A cohort of farming legislators looks to bolster Hawaii’s food systems and build on momentum from 2022. Civil Beat.

Report highlights domino effect of low wages, high costs of living in Hawaiʻi .  The number of working households that are unable to meet their needs despite employment has grown by more than 66% since 2018, according to a new report from the Aloha United Way and Bank of Hawaiʻi Foundation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Office Of Hawaiian Affairs Trustees Take Office.  Nine Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ trustees were inducted at an investiture ceremony held Thursday morning at Kawaiahaʻo Church in Honolulu.  Big Island Video News.

$600M spending plan finalized for Hawaiian Home Lands. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has sent the Legislature a finalized plan to spend $600 million that lawmakers appropriated earlier this year largely to facilitate DHHL beneficiary homeownership. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Japanese, U.S. officials urge peace at memorial event. Japanese and American officials gathered Thursday on Ford Island for the annual Japan-U.S. Joint Memorial Ceremony where they reflected on the devastation of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the fighting that followed and how to prevent it from ever happening again.  Star-Advertiser.

 ‘Ticking Ecological Time Bombs’: Thousands Of Sunken Ships From WWII Are Rusting At The Bottom Of The Pacific. Earthquakes, storm surges and other natural disasters could mean environmental catastrophe if oil and other hazardous material spill out. Civil Beat.

US House passes ocean bills to protect reefs, marine animals and ecosystems. The US House passed a package of oceans bills included in the annual National Defense Authorization Act that would help conserve coral reefs, protect marine mammals and enable better understanding of marine ecosystems.  Maui Now.

Oahu

Suspect Shot & Killed by HPD Following Barricade at Waikiki Hotel. Honolulu Police confirmed the suspect was shot multiple times and rushed to the hospital in critical condition. He died later from the gunshot wounds.  The 10 hour stand off ended after midnight early Friday morning. KITV4. Hawaii News Now.

Shooting range closure prevents dozens of DPS officers from renewing gun certifications. The sudden closure of Oahu’s only public shooting range is preventing dozens of state Department of Public Safety personnel from being able to renew their firearms certifications. Hawaii News Now.

Report: ‘Forever chemicals’ spilled at Red Hill were also released at Kalaeloa Airport. Activists say they’re worried about state firefighters, construction workers and others who may have been exposed to the toxic chemicals that have now been linked to increased risk of cancer. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Lava slows its roll on Mauna Loa. Developments in the Mauna Loa lava flow have given Daniel K. Inouye Highway a temporary reprieve, at a minimum, and might even signal the beginning of the end to an eruption entering its 10th day. Or maybe not. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Hawaii News Now.

Three men from Kazakhstan cited for entering closed area on Mauna Loa. Three Kazakhstani visitors were cited Wednesday after being observed by three different law enforcement agencies trespassing within the closed area of the Mauna Loa Forest Reserve. Tribune-Herald. Maui Now.  KHON2.

BLNR looks to protect paku‘iku‘i in W. Hawaii waters.  The Board of Land and Natural Resources is mulling a rule that would prohibit the taking of Paku‘iku‘i, also called the Achilles tang, anywhere in West Hawaii waters for at least two years. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Big Spending By Carpenters Super PAC Could Shift The Balance Of Maui’s Council. The super PAC Be Change Now saw six of its seven county candidates win office in November. Almost all county council candidates supported by super PAC Be Change Now were successful in the general election, changing the makeup of the councils in every county and setting up a potential leadership shakeup on Maui. Civil Beat.

Maui Mayor-elect Richard Bissen seeks resumes statewide to serve administration.  Maui County Mayor-elect, Richard Bissen is seeking individuals who wish to serve their community in the position of County Department Directors and Deputy Directors.  Maui Now.

52% of Maui County homes live below ALICE threshold. Maui County has seen the largest increase in poverty in the state since 2018, according to a recent report that noted a growing trend in Hawaii families slipping below both the basic cost of living and federal poverty lines. Maui News.

Kauai

New officers highlight KPD’s week.  The graduation of the 97th Police Recruit Class on Wednesday at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center capped a week of events at the Kaua‘i Police Department. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Tourism marketing contract rescinded, Pearl Harbor attack remembered, Mauna Loa lava flow near military area raises concerns, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lucrative Hawaii tourism marketing contract rescinded again. Mike McCartney, whose term heading the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism ended at noon Monday, said in two letters that his decision is “final and binding” and that he is confident the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the state agency that solicited bids and awarded the contract, will solicit new bids that split the desired work in two pieces. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

81 years since Pearl Harbor attack, thousands to remember the ‘everlasting legacy’.  Thousands will gather Wednesday to mark another year since the Dec. 7 attack on Pearl Harbor and honor all those who sacrificed their lives. At the same time, many will celebrate the future that came after — when once bitter enemies became loyal friends and allies. Hawaii News Now.

Stemming the tide of corruption: Commission submits 31 proposals for change. A commission created to recommend ways to stem the tide of corruption in Hawaii state and local government has released an ambitious agenda that includes 31 proposals for the 2023 Legislature that convenes next month. West Hawaii Today.

More Hawaii households in poverty, report finds.  An Aloha United Way report, based on a 2022 statewide survey, found that while 9% of Hawaii households were below the federal poverty line in 2019, that percentage ballooned to 15% in 2022. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii government workers can switch insurance providers.  State and county government workers can now switch out their Kaiser Permanente health insurance for a Hawaii Medical Service Association plan — with no questions asked — if they are struggling to access behavioral health services due to a prolonged strike of Kaiser’s mental health clinicians that has entered its fourth month. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Permit Applicants May Get Refunds If Approval Takes Too Long. Currently, the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting can cancel permit applications that have been in its system for 365 days, and the applicant forfeits their entire plan review fee. Civil Beat.

City to end free COVID-19 testing program on Oahu.  The City and County of Honolulu announced today that it will cease its free COVID-19 testing operations at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and other sites after Dec. 30. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Military refuses to release video of toxic spill at Red Hill, sowing new suspicion and concern. The state Health Department is demanding that the military release video of the latest spill at the Red Hill fuel facility. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu home sales plunge amid rising interest rates. Sales of single-family homes nose-dived 48.2% in November to 192 from 371 in the year-earlier period while condominium sales tumbled 43.4% to 340 from 601, according to data released Tuesday from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Wahiawa’s New ‘Ad Hoc Mayor’ Has The Vision And The Power To Help His Hometown. Wahiawa, once a global agricultural center and now a down-on-its-heels urban hub in the middle of Oahu, has an important benefactor: Hawaii Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz, the often controversial chairman of the state’s powerful Senate Ways and Means Committee. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Commission names final four for Big Island police chief. The Hawaii County Police Commission on Tuesday revealed the four finalists to succeed Paul Ferreira, who retired Aug. 31 as the county’s police chief. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

New Hawaiʻi County Council sworn in Monday.  The nine members of the new Hawai‘i County Council — all chosen by their communities to make the Big Island better — were sworn in Monday during the Hawai‘i County Inaugural Ceremony at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo.  Big Island Now.

Mauna Loa lava flow edges closer to Saddle Road. Lava from the Mauna Loa eruption closed the distance to Daniel K. Inouye Highway to just 1.5 miles, Hawaii County Civil Defense reported Tuesday afternoon. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Pohakuloa Training Area munitions raise concerns as Mauna Loa lava creeps closer.  A day after an unexploded training ordinance was found on Old Saddle Road by a civilian visitor, the press peppered county and military officials with questions about what other possible munitions remain on the terrain of the training area. KITV4.

‘We feel so lucky’: Crowds flock to Maunakea VIS to see Mauna Loa eruption. Thousands of residents and tourists braved the cold and the possibility of altitude sickness last weekend to see one of the best views of the Mauna Loa eruption — from its sister volcano, Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

Access and air quality are top of mind for Hilo High during Maunaloa eruption.  Public schools on Hawaiʻi Island remain open despite the Maunaloa eruption. While there is a degree of excitement among some teachers and students — there’s also a level of anxiety. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Whale spotted off Maui with “blunt force injuries” likely caused by a vessel strike. A whale in distress, spotted in West Maui waters last week, suffered from blunt force injuries, likely caused by a vessel strike either on its migration to Hawaiʻi or while in feeding grounds, according to the Pacific Whale Foundation.  Maui Now. KHON2.

Input sought on mosquito suppression efforts to address impacts of avian malaria on Maui. Haleakalā National Park is seeking public input on an environmental assessment for the “Suppression of Non-native Mosquito Populations to Address the Impacts of Avian Malaria on Threatened and Endangered Forest Birds on Maui.”  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

DHHL plan includes 190 lots on Kaua‘i.  The final draft of the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands plan to spend a historic $600 million allocation indicates it will fund the development of 190 lots on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Liquor investigators checking Kaua‘i businesses.  Department of Liquor Control investigators will be conducting compliance checks at Kaua‘i businesses this holiday season. Investigators will also work directly with business owners to identify minors using false identification to buy alcohol, the County of Kaua‘i announced Tuesday. Kauai Now. Garden Island.
 

Hawaii inaugurates its ninth governor, National Guard deployed to keep order at Mauna Loa lava flow, state Senate finalizes leadership, committees, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New Hawaii gubernatorial leadership takes the reins.  Josh Green became Hawaii’s ninth governor Monday in an inauguration filled with pomp and promise. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio.  Hawaii News Now.  Associated Press.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Maui Now.  Garden Island.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Luke roasts Hawaii politicians, herself, on first day on the job. Hawaii’s new Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke mapped out a serious plan to help Hawaii’s youngest get an early education and to bring high-speed internet to remote communities across the state — but first, minutes into her first day on the job Monday, she poked some fun. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi State Senate finalizes leadership and committee assignments. The Hawaiʻi State Senate finalized leadership and committee assignments ahead of the 32nd Legislature that opens on Jan. 18, 2023. Maui Now.

Hawaii government workers might be able to drop Kaiser health insurance. The state agency that provides health insurance benefits to government workers in Hawaii is considering offering employees a special open enrollment period to allow them to switch their health coverage from Kaiser Permanente to the Hawaii Medical Service Association due to the protracted strike by Kaiser’s mental health clinicians. Star-Advertiser.

Amid ongoing shortage of health care workers, Hawaii hospitals see ‘unprecedented’ demand. Hospitals across the state are busier than ever — even busier than during the peak of the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Over $300M refunded to Hawaiʻi taxpayers . Gov. David Ige announced 606,674 refunds have been issued to Hawaiʻi taxpayers, totaling $307.9 million. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

HPD chief urges community to call 911 if legal guns not concealed. If you see a person walking around Oahu with a gun that is visible after the Honolulu Police Department begins issuing concealed-carry weapon licenses, please call 911, Honolulu Police Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan said. Star-Advertiser.

Navy refuses to publicly release video of latest Red Hill spill.  The Navy today said it would release video footage of last week’s spill of toxic fire suppressant chemicals at Red Hill to federal and state environmental regulators, but not the public claiming that doing so could impede its investigation into the latest accident at its massive underground fuel facility. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Robots are scrubbing floors at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.  To keep floors “sanitary and sparkling” at the Big Island’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, the Hawai’i Department of Transportation has purchased automated floor cleaning robots. Big Island Now. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Man Arrested For Allegedly Forging Federal Judge’s Signature To Steal From Elderly Woman. The suspect allegedly convinced the woman that he had saved her Ewa Beach home from foreclosure and demanded cash payments from her. Civil Beat.

On Oahu’s west side, worsening homeless problem draws calls for greater outreach. At a recent Waianae Neighborhood Board Meeting, police said they simply “don’t have the equipment or manpower to actually remove” all the homeless people camped at the beach. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ige calls up National Guard to help with traffic on Saddle.  Gov. David Ige activated the Hawaii National Guard on Monday to assist Hawaii County with traffic control during the Mauna Loa eruption. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Star-Advertiser.  KHON2.

Mauna Loa Eruption Day 8: Creeping lava unlikely to cross Saddle Road for a week plus, if ever.  The front of Mauna Loa’s lava flow continues to inch closer to Daniel K. Inouye Highway. As of noon, the flow front was 2.15 miles from the thoroughfare. Big Island Now.

Hawaii geologists skeptical about claim eruption was forecasted.  Hawaii volcanologists have raised eyebrows at University of Miami researchers who claim to have predicted the current Mauna Loa eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Key ag research facility to get face-lift. Before he left office, Gov. David Ige released $6.9 million in capital improvement funds for the Waiakea Research Station on Stainback Highway, on the southern outskirts of Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

County Announces Shift In Kalanianaʻole Traffic Direction. DPW and Nan, Inc on Thursday will be closing the mauka-bound lane and opening the makai-bound lane into Hilo town from Keaukaha on Thursday, December 8, at 7:00 am for striping of the roadway and shoulder maintenance.  Big Island Video News.

Maui

Another former Maui wastewater official pleads guilty to bribery in corruption scandal. Former Maui wastewater Supervisor Wilfredo Tamayo Savella pleaded guilty to bribery charges on Monday as part of a sprawling corruption scandal that also netted public officials.  Hawaii News Now.

Applications available for East Maui community water board.  During the Nov. 8 election, voters approved a charter amendment to create the water authority and East Maui regional community board, which will appoint the water authority director; approve a long-range watershed management plan and related programs; set priorities; approve the annual operations budget appropriation request; provide written comments on the long-term capital improvement plan, annual maintenance plan and operating budget and make recommendations on water rates and the federal, state and private funding plan.  Maui News.

Kauai

Passenger count hits new high. A wave of visitors to the island of Kaua‘i in November lifted the passenger count into rarefied air at Lihu‘e Airport, which set an annual record for the number of deplanements with one month to go in 2022. Garden Island.

Airport gets bulk of Kaua‘i’s capital improvement projects funding.  More than $124.6 million in state funding is headed to Kaua‘i, for projects ranging from the relocation of a Līhuʻe Airport runway to the construction of a new gymnasium at Waimea High School. Kauai Now.

Hawaii gas price tops in the nation, Green, Luke to be inaugurated today, unexploded ordnance temporarily closes lava viewing area, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Why Is Hawaii Still Suffering From High Oil Prices When The Mainland Has Dropped? Hawaii was the only state in the U.S. last week where electric rates continue to cause consumer shock and average gasoline prices topped $5 per gallon. As crude oil and gasoline prices drop on the mainland, bringing relief to consumers after a long period of high prices, Hawaii residents and businesses face a grim alternate reality: gasoline prices haven’t dropped much, and neither has the price of electricity. Civil Beat.

Is Hawaiʻi nearing a recession? Analysts say not quite. Paul Brewbaker, economist and principal of TZ Economics, said that inflation in Hawaiʻi is running at 6.6% now — of which 4.1% is core inflation. That, combined with rising interest rates, is changing the dynamics between lenders and consumers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Inauguration of Green and Luke set for today.  Gov.-elect Josh Green and Lt. Gov.-elect Sylvia Luke are scheduled to be sworn in to Hawaii’s highest offices today in an inauguration ceremony at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center Arena to include the Royal Hawaiian Band, the Roosevelt High School String Quartet and the Hawaii National Guard Joint Color Guard &Royal Guard. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii Tourism Authority calls for special meeting on U.S. tourism contract.  The Hawaii Tourism Authority has called a special board meeting for Wednesday to discuss extending the U.S. tourism contract while it sorts out a procurement protest and other irregularities a week after a secret meeting with the outgoing governor and the director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Tourism Authority emails show contract process concerns. Hawaii Tourism Authority staff may have violated state procurement law during solicitation for the U.S. tourism contract, typically worth more than $100 million over a five-year period, according to information found in approximately 2,700 pages of public records. Star-Advertiser.

Former sports anchor, union official sentenced to probation for his role in corruption scandal. Former KHNL sports anchor and union official Russell Yamanoha has been sentenced to two years of probation and was fined $5,000 for his role in a union corruption scandal. Yamanoha, the former assistant business manager for the IBEW Local 1260, was convicted in 2019 for helping rig union votes. Hawaii News Now.

Federal Rental Subsidies Could Help Thousands Of Kupuna On DHHL Waitlist. A new program overseen by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement follows more than $12 million of rent relief the department has disbursed. Civil Beat.

Army moving equipment across Pacific for training. The Army is moving equipment across the Pacific in support of its Operation Pathways exercise to be held in Australia in 2023 as it continues to define its changing role in the region. Star-Advertiser.

Fishing council questions monument’s spillover benefits. The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council is again challenging the reported benefits of the Papaha­naumokuakea Marine National Monument — this time by directly questioning the legitimacy of a recent study on the spillover effects the monument’s expansion area has on marine life. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

DOT announces locations for new red light cameras. The Department of Transportation's red light safety camera pilot will install 10 cameras throughout intersections in Honolulu with a history of red light violations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Navy hikes toxic leak estimate: ‘They’re on thin ice’.  Officials said on Saturday, Dec. 3 that the amount that was actually released could be almost 20 percent higher than originally reported. KHON2.

‘Last straw’: BWS chief engineer Ernie Lau joins water advocates in Red Hill protest. For the first time, Board of Water Supply Chief Engineer Ernie Lau joined dozens of water advocates at a Red Hill protest Friday outside the State Health Department. Hawaii News Now.

Construction to resume on Mandarin Oriental Honolulu luxury tower.  A developer plans to start building a $650 million luxury hotel and condominium tower across from the Hawai‘i Convention Center next year following a three-year delay influenced by the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Makua Beach Standoff: Residents Say They Are Being Run Off By A Man Camping Out. People who regularly use the beach say Samson Souza has been blocking access for months. He says he’s trying to protect endangered spinner dolphins. Civil Beat.

Waianae Coast pig farmer fights for livelihood against landlord. A 55-year-old Waianae Coast pig farmer who filed a petition to the state’s highest court for help to save his livestock and his livelihood said he’s not giving up the fight despite being rejected by the Hawaii Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

More progressive County Council to be sworn in Monday. There’s a new day coming for the Hawaii County Council, with a freshly minted chairwoman, three freshman members, newly named committees and a more progressive agenda. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now.

Explosive device closes Mauna Loa viewing area. The Hawaii County Police Department reopened the parking area on old Saddle Road on Sunday afternoon following the conclusion of a police investigation that closed the Mauna Loa eruption viewing area for nearly five hours. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Civil Beat.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Volcanic risk: 2020 report could be key in avoiding disaster.  After the lava flows from the 2018 Kilauea eruption took out more than 700 homes and cost tens of millions of dollars in road reconstruction and land buyouts, the county spent more than $2 million on a consultant to conduct an islandwide volcanic risk assessment as well as a Kilauea recovery plan. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island still draws home buyers despite eruption risks.  Despite the threats of hurricanes, tsunamis, vog, earthquakes — and now another eruption from Mauna Loa — people continue to move to the more affordable areas of Hawaii Island, including the Leilani Estates subdivision that was overrun by Kilauea lava in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

A legacy of lava: Kim, Trusdell reflect on 1984 Mauna Loa eruption that threatened Hilo.  Former Mayor Harry Kim was county Civil Defense administrator in 1984, a position he held for 24 years before becoming Hawaii County’s chief executive in 2000. In his role at Civil Defense, as well as in his dozen years as mayor, Kim has dealt with volcanoes more on a day-to-day basis than any other county official. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County council voices support for restoration of Kawela Stream flow. Resolution urges water commission to deny contested case hearing for landowner. Maui News.

Work to start on new hale at Kepaniwai. A project to build a replacement Hawaiian Hale at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens in Iao Valley will begin Dec. 12. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Coco Palms development faces new legal challenge. Kaua‘i community group I Ola Wailuanui filed a lawsuit last month against the state Board of Land and Natural Resources and the developers behind the project, arguing recently renewed BLNR permits granted to a defunct LLC without the typically required environmental impact statements.  Garden Island.

Millions released for Kaua‘i projects.  Waimea High School will get a new gym, as $27 million of the funds released between Nov. 1, 2022, and Dec. 2, 2022, are for construction of a new gym and related facilities.  Garden Island.

Green names Cabinet appointees, Hawaii only state with $5 gas, blue-ribbon panel has 31 anti-corruption proposals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov.-Elect Josh Green’s Cabinet Will Have Many Familiar Faces. Gov.-elect Josh Green on Thursday announced the names of 20 Cabinet-level appointees, including many who led state agencies during Gov. David Ige’s tenure. Green, who has been lieutenant governor for four years, is to be sworn in as governor at noon Monday at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center Arena. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

These are Josh Green’s 5 big priorities for his first 100 days in office. Green discussed what changes he plans to make in his first 100 days in office. The first is to take immediate action on Hawaii’s housing crisis. Green says if necessary he’ll use emergency powers to adjust some of the processes that are obstructing the ability to build housing. Hawaii News Now.

‘A Deep Moral Crisis’: Commission Proposes ‘Bold’ Reforms In Government. Commission members urged the public to pay close attention to what the Hawaii Legislature does with the 31 proposals intended to combat corruption, ethical issues and more. A blue-ribbon panel tasked with identifying ways to better Hawaii government is calling for sweeping reforms to restore public trust in government. The suggested reforms include enhancing investigation and prosecution of fraud, providing more openness and transparency, curbing the influence of money to lawmakers and limiting their time in office. Civil Beat.

Expectations for Hawaii’s economy stay level. The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released a new quarterly forecast for the local economy earlier this week, and anticipates no change from its previous projection for 2023 and 2024 made in August. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Garden Island.

AAA: Hawaiʻi only state with gas price averaging more than $5 a gallon. Hawaiʻi gas prices remained in a holding pattern even while all other Western states experienced weekly price dips of 20 cents or more, according to the AAA Hawaiʻi Weekend Gas Watch. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s State Board Of Education Draft Plan Includes Higher Reading and Math Goals. BOE board members highlighted a need for higher basic academic achievement for all students, and more support for minorities and English learners. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Navy plan approved by health department following foam leak at Red Hill. The state Department of Health has approved a Navy Sampling and Analysis Plan following the leak of 1,100 gallons of concentrated fire suppressant into the ground at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. Star-Advertiser.

Red Hill defueling on pause while Navy cleans up toxic fire suppressant spill. Defueling of the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility remains on pause as the Navy cleans up a separate toxic spill from earlier this week. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Red light camera initiative moves forward despite backlash. There will be 10 red light cameras installed at various Honolulu intersections by March as a part of the state Department of Transportation's red light safety program. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

County creates ‘Traffic Hazard Mitigation Route’ for lava viewing. Via the route, which was unveiled today, drivers can enter the Old Saddle Road directly across from the Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area. From there, drivers can travel the 4.5-mile stretch of road until it rejoins with the Daniel K. Inouye Highway just before Puʻuhuluhulu near the Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hāmākua Bridge Reopens Closed Lane In Case Lava Cuts Saddle. The second lane over Nanue Bridge at mile marker 18.5 on Hawaii Belt Road has been reopened, after a closure due to emergency repairs. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Climate scientists at Maunaloa Observatory are 'pursuing all options' to get back on site. The eight scientists and technicians who work at the Maunaloa Observatory collecting climate data are grateful to be out of harm’s way of the lava flow. They say they are anxious to return to the facility though no one knows when it will be safe to do so.  Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Video News.

For many Hawaiians, lava flows are a time to honor, reflect. Glowing lava from the world’s largest volcano is a sight to behold, but for many Native Hawaiians, Mauna Loa’s eruption is a time to pray, make offerings and honor both the natural and spiritual worlds. Associated Press.

Maui

Another Former Maui County Official Has Been Charged With Accepting Bribes. Federal authorities announced Thursday that another former Maui County environmental management official has been charged with accepting bribes as part of a long-running corruption scheme involving Honolulu businessman Milton Choy. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Citing Water Crisis, Maui Makes Fodor’s List Of Places To Not Visit Next Year. The travel publication listed the island among regions “suffering from water crises.” Civil Beat.

Lanai Runway Expansion Hits A Nerve Over ‘Two-Tiered’ Travel. The upgrade would allow bigger private jets to fly to Lanai nonstop from the mainland. Lanai Airport’s existing 5,000-foot runway isn’t long enough for some heavier jets to land. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Mayor Kawakami lays out priorities for next term at his inauguration. Kawakami, entering his second term as mayor, laid out the goals for the next four years of his administration: “Infrastructure, infrastructure and infrastructure.” Garden Island.

Mayor Kawakami, Kauaʻi County Council sworn into office at inauguration ceremony. The 2022-2024 Kaua‘i County Council members include Council Chair Mel Rapozo, Council Vice Chair KipuKai Kuali‘i, Addison Bulosan, Bernard P. Carvalho Jr., Felicia Cowden, Bill DeCosta and Luke A. Evslin. Kauai Now. KHON2.