State bans e-cigs from buildings, Tropical Storm Ana strengthens, Ige has double-digit lead, Honolulu police settle lawsuits, Hawaii County mulls $20M bonds for lava roads, water flows for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

e-cig in use © 2014 All Hawaii News

The users of electronic cigarettes — those controversial smoking devices that some claim are safer than traditional smokes — are taking a couple of hits in Hawaii this week. The state Department of Health announced Monday that electronic smoking devices, or e-cigarettes, are now banned from 49 state government buildings across Hawaii, including the state Capitol and Washington Place. Star-Advertiser.

Electronic cigarettes — aka electronic smoking devices or e-cigarettes — are now prohibited in all state government buildings under the jurisdiction of the Department of Accounting and General Services. Civil Beat.

Some people are in favor of a new policy which prohibits electronic cigarette, or e-cigarette, use in state government buildings. Garden Island.

Politico’s Morning Score — “your guide to the permanent campaign” — reports that David Ige has a double-digit lead in the Hawaii governor’s race. Ige, a state senator, is ahead of Republican Duke Aiona 45-33 percent, “according to a Global Strategy Group poll for Hawaii Forward, a DGA-backed independent expenditure group.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii Republicans and religious conservatives wanted to significantly increase voter registration for the November elections to potentially help Republican candidates in a state dominated politically by Democrats, but the drive has fallen flat. The state Office of Elections said Monday that voter registration is at 706,890, a marginal, 0.17 percent increase from the 705,668 registered in 2012 and a 2.3 percent bump from 690,748 in 2010. Star-Advertiser.

As independent groups continue their efforts to influence Hawaii elections by flooding airwaves with ads about ballot issues and stuffing mailboxes with fliers about candidates, voters are mostly left in the dark about who is spending the money and where it’s coming from. These political action committees last filed finance reports with the state Campaign Spending Commission in August, which shed some light on who contributed the hundreds of thousands of dollars they spent before the primary election and how those funds were used. Civil Beat.

Gubernatorial hopefuls in Hawaii will talk about their ideas for the state's energy policies at a forum Tuesday. The University of Hawaii's Energy Policy Forum is hosting the event. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s county officials are still clamoring for a greater share of a tax on short-term lodging that was originally intended to help defray the cost of hosting tourists. West Hawaii Today.

Tropical Storm Ana continues to strengthen early Tuesday as it makes its way toward the Big Island, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center said. The storm is currently located about 885 miles east-southeast of Hilo and 945 miles east-southeast of Kailua-Kona and moving toward the northwest around 5 mph. The storm as of 5 a.m. Tuesday was packing 50 mph winds. West Hawaii Today.

Officials at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center are urging Hawaii residents to remain vigilant as Tropical Storm Ana continues its leisurely approach toward the state. The system was upgraded from a tropical depression to a tropical storm Monday afternoon as maximum sustained winds topped 45 mph. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The city settled two lawsuits involving the Honolulu Police Department last week, bringing to $2.6 million the total that taxpayers paid this year for alleged police misconduct and other cases. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu has a new housing strategy that focuses on building more affordable rental units for residents around rail transit stations. Hawaii Public Radio.

One of the companies being sued over the deaths of five men in a fireworks explosion and fire at a Wai­kele storage facility in 2011 has agreed to pay the families of the victims $1.5 million. Ford Island Ventures holds the master lease to the former munitions bunker complex owned by the Navy. Star-Advertiser.

A long-time city prosecutor is accused of stalking and harassing a former co-worker. Deputy Prosecutor Darrell Wong is a 29-year veteran of the office who is assigned to challenging and high-profile cases. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The state Airports Division and tourism officials are hoping the third time is the charm when they petition U.S. Customs and Border Protection to allow them to reopen Kona Airport as a second international port of entry. Honolulu has been Hawaii's only international point of entry since Customs and Border Protection shut down the Kona port of entry in 2012 because its Federal Inspection Service site no longer met their requirements. Star-Advertiser.


Two of the three gubernatorial candidates at a forum Monday evening said they would like to reconsider the state’s Land Use Commission. Republican Duke Aiona and Independent Mufi Hannemann both mentioned the commission during the forum at Kealakehe High School in response to a question about areas of state government they believed could be delegated to the counties. About 200 people attended the forum. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is preparing to borrow up to $20 million for emergency road work to ensure Puna residents have a way in and out of their communities should lava cross Highway 130. The County Council is scheduled to discuss Resolution 554 on Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Iao Stream is flowing to the ocean for the first time in 100 years. Wailuku Water Co., which diverts the water in connection with various business interests, allowed the release of water Monday to increase the in-stream flow up to 10 million gallons a day, as part of a settlement with Native Hawaiians and community groups. Star-Advertiser.

Leaders on both sides of the contentious battle over water rights in Central Maui, emerged to witness waters flow freely below Kepaniwai Park in ʻĪao Valley and the water mouth at Paukūkalo today. Maui Now.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources today announced the addition of 3,721 acres at Waikamoi to be included in the state’s Natural Area Partnership Program. Maui Now.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is finalizing a proposed plan that would remove unexploded ordnance from the former Makanalua Bombing Range on Molokai's Kalaupapa peninsula. Maui News.

Maui Memorial Medical Center is in talks with Kaiser Permanente Hawaii about a possible partnership. Associated Press.

Kauai

Scientists say higher-than-normal sea surface temperatures are threatening corals around Kauai. Garden Island.

Retired car deal James Pflueger will be sentenced in state court Wednesday for his role in the deaths of seven people on Kauai in 2006. Pflueger, 88, was originally charged with seven counts of manslaughter. However, in a deal with the state, his company, Pacific 808 Properties, pleaded no contest last year to the manslaughter charges, and Pflue­ger pleaded no contest to felony reckless endangering. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's 'Stairway to Heaven' could reopen, DLNR blasts Hawaiian Electric plan, gubernatorial and congressional candidates debate, Schatz, Gabbard mull lava escape plan, Honolulu rail transit plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Haiku Stairs, photo by Kirinwizard

An ad hoc community group formed to decide the future of Haiku Stairs released a report Thursday recommending that the popular attraction be reopened with access through Windward Community College's campus. Star-Advertiser.

A working group tasked with determining the best course of action for the Ha’iku Stairs said the status quo is not acceptable. The popular stairway in Kaneohe, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, has been closed for more than a decade. However, trespassers continue to climb the 3,922 steps. The 13-member working group recommended the city either tear down the stairs at a cost of between $3 million and $5 million, or “develop a managed access use plan.” KITV4.

For nearly 30 years, hikers have been denied legal access to Haiku Stairs, also known as “the Stairway to Heaven.” Now, there is a call to reopen the hiking trail, but only if all interested parties agree to a so-called “managed access plan.” KHON2.

The state blasted Hawaiian Electric Industries' new energy transition plan for being stuck in the past and doing more to benefit the utility than the public. The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, in an 86-page filing with the state Public Utilities Commission, registered its frustration with the utility, saying HEI is clinging to an old business model that is incapable of meeting the goal of moving Hawaii off fossil fuels and onto renewable energy.  Star-Advertiser.

Some solar customers who have been on the waiting list are finally getting hooked up and approved by Hawaiian Electric Co. But critics say the solar boom won’t last. HECO set up new regulations on solar last year that left a backlog of customers wanting to get on the grid and slowed the growth of the solar industry. KHON2.

National groups independent from the candidates are stepping up their attacks, especially in the close race for Hawaii governor. It’s the RGA versus the DGA — the Republican Governors Association versus the Democratic Governors Association. Civil Beat.

While repeating their stances on issues facing the next Congress, the candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District also stuck to key campaign themes in a roundtable discussion aired statewide Thursday night on PBS Hawaii's "Insights." Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii would be able to expedite tuition decreases under a proposal the Board of Regents budget committee advanced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs and a grassroots organization are using an online game to help get more Native Hawaiians interested in statewide elections. OHA and Kanu Hawaii created a game that allows voters to take an online quiz to see which candidates in the Nov. 4 general election best matches their own political opinions. Associated Press.

Oahu

City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro defended his decision to let a grand jury decide whether a misdemeanor abuse charge should be made against a police officer in a highly publicized case. Star-Advertiser.

The firm creating Oahu's driverless train system might finally have landed a buyer, and that has rail board members seeking assurances that any upcoming sale won't disrupt or delay the $5.26 billion project -- which already faces other challenges to finish on time. Star-Advertiser.

The board overseeing Oahu's rail project voted unanimously Thursday to give Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Dan Grabauskas a new three-year contract, which, if signed, would take effect this spring with a 5 percent raise. Grabauskas' current three-year deal, which pays an annual base salary of $245,000, ends in April. The new contract would pay Grabauskas a base of $257,000 and make him eligible for a 3.5 percent raise in the subsequent two years. Star-Advertiser.

A company under state investigation for allegedly dumping thousands of gallons of oil products near Kawainui Marsh is now in the cross hairs of city inspectors. That's after a former employee came forward with new allegations that the company poured thousand of gallons of petroleum sludge into the city's sewers. Hawaii News Now.

A Hawaii technology startup company wants to let bus riders be better informed when their bus will arrive with real-time display signs at bus stops. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools’ plan to redevelop nearly 300,000 square feet of its commercial properties surrounding Kahala Mall in East Oahu into primarily retail space is gaining some traction, with leases on five commercial parcels mauka of the mall expiring during the next five years, a spokesman for the trust recently told Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s three major gubernatorial candidates each pledged to do more to empower educators at the local level during their first debate on the Big Island on Thursday evening. Tribune-Herald.

Governor Candidates Assure Hilo Voters on Disaster Preps, Recovery. After Tropical Storm Iselle, and with lava poised to cut off a key highway, Hawaii County residents want a governor who will help. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz told a large crowd in Pahoa on Thursday night that they're doing all they can to press the federal government to pay attention to the small town on Hawaii island being threatened by lava. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard and U.S. Senator Brian Schatz addressed a packed crowd of more 500 anxious and concerned residents. They say their top priorities are ensuring uninterrupted postal service and the critical infrastructure needs of clearing Chain of Craters road -- which by all accounts will eventually become the only way in and out of the lower Puna district. Hawaii News Now.

The advancement of the June 27 lava flow appears to be slowing down yet again, potentially lengthening the time it could take to encroach upon Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

West Hawaii residents tore into a proposed state water quality plan in Kailua-Kona Thursday night. Frustrations boiled to the surface, with people firing questions and not being satisfied with the answers they received from a state Department of Health official leading an informational meeting at the West Hawaii Civic Center. West Hawaii Today.

Members of the state Commission on Water Resource Management continued their investigation into a petition to designate the Keauhou aquifer as a water management area Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald has appointed Margaret Masunaga as judge of the District Court of the 3rd Circuit. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Acting Governor Shan Tsutsui signed a proclamation today declaring Oct. 9, 2014, as Līpoa Point Day in the State of Hawaiʻi. The Līpoa Point acquisition by the state effectively removes the threat of development, preserving the land in perpetuity for generations to come, and makes the way for the creation of a management plan. Maui Now.

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. retirees were able to breathe a sigh of relief Thursday after the state solidified its purchase of Lipoa Point for $19.5 million, which the company must use to fund pension plans for its former workers. Maui News.

The Maui County Council's Planning Committee advanced a bill last week that would regulate home businesses. Maui News.

Kauai

Debra Lee-Jackson, a taro farmer from Kauai’s Puna District, said her nonprofit Hui Ho‘opulapula Na Wai o Puna has spent the last year working to understand water conditions and uses in the area. The Hui, made up of a group of landowners, lessees, taro farmers, fishermen and native Hawaiians seeking to restore and preserve Puna’s watersheds, is asking the council to support, via a resolution, its petition aimed at having South Puna — known as the Hanamaulu sub-aquifer — designated as a Ground-Surface Water Management Area. Garden Island.

Subsistence fishers, lineal descendants of Hāʻena and community members from across Kaua‘i and the rest of the state testified in support of the Hāʻena Community Based Subsistence Fishing Area rules. Hawaii Independent.

Tulsi Gabbard named 2nd hottest in Congress, jobs focus of Djou, Takai, gubernatorial candidates debate education, Honolulu super PAC spending probed, Kauai approves pay as you throw garbage plan, Hawaii prison gangs exposed, at-risk advised to evacuate in advance of lava flow, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard surfing, Capitol File magazine

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii has been named the second “hottest” female in the U.S. Congress, according to Washingtonian magazine. First-place honors went to Kristi Noem (R-S.D.) Besides Gabbard, no other Hawaii congressional delegate makes “The Best & Worst of Congress.” Civil Beat.

Opinion: The point of our recent Tulsi Gabbard piece on surfing with Yahoo News instead of attending a U.S. Senate hearing on problems at the VA is one that Gabbard’s supporters are conveniently sidestepping: She was scheduled to go to the hearing. She didn’t show up. Sen. Mazie Hirono’s staff told reporters they had expected her, wanted her to be there, and had no idea where she was. Civil Beat.

While both candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District agreed on the need to lower the cost of living for local residents, they differed on the approaches to take. The differences were highlighted in a candidate forum Wednesday night before several dozen people at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu. Star-Advertiser.

Charles Djou is so close to possibly winning a seat in Congress that he can almost smell the cherry blossoms that will be blooming next spring in Washington, D.C. With less than a month until Election Day, he and his supporters have the campaign running at full tilt — from candidate forums and coffee hours to phone banking and sign waving. Civil Beat.

Education is a key campaign plank for Hawai'i's gubernatorial candidates. After four years of disappointment, teachers, parents and local communities rejected Gov. Neil Abercrombie, once the great hope of the state's education system. It is now the hope of the state's voters that a judge and educator, such as James "Duke" Aiona; an engineer and legislator, such as David Ige; or a businessman and former mayor, such as Mufi Hannemann, can improve the state's schools and increase student achievement. Maui Weekly.

In a potential partnership with local developers, former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona said Wednesday that he supports a new initiative that would enable renters to build equity toward down payments on home purchases. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu political action committee that ran negative ads slamming incumbent Kohala County Councilwoman Margaret Wille is being looked into by the state Campaign Spending Commission, following complaints from a political activist. West Hawaii Today.

Closing statements are expected in a federal trial that has provided an inside look at the operations of a Hawaii prison gang. Former Halawa Correctional Facility guard Feso Malufau is accused of taking bribes from the “USO Family” gang to smuggle drugs to prisoners. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s troubled Obamacare exchange has a new executive director, and he’ll have a mess to sort out to earn his $150,000 annual salary. Jeffrey Kissel, president and chief executive officer of HawaiiGAS, replaces Hawaii Health Connector Interim Executive Director Tom Matsuda. He will be the third leader of the state insurance exchange in less than a year. Hawaii Reporter.

Opinion: The Nov. 4 election will answer two questions. One is obvious: Which candidates won? The other question has become just as obvious: How did Hawaii’s State Office of Elections screw up this time? Civil Beat.

State roundup for Oct. 9. Associated Press.

Oahu

Three bills designed to combat illegal dumping, grading and related issues on Oahu's agricultural lands won final approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

In response to people and businesses that illegally dump trash, sludge, construction waste and old vehicles in rural land around Waianae, the Honolulu City Council voted on Wednesday to increase fines for illegal dumping island-wide. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Area Rapid Transportation officials showed off new renderings for the final four stations at the Honolulu end of the city's rail line. Hawaii News Now.

In an unprecedented move, the City Council voted 8-1 Wednesday to make public two confidential opinions from city attorneys. The opinions relate to plans to ban or make it more difficult for property owners and developers to convert hotel rooms into condominium units. Star-Advertiser.

Two lawsuits could have the city dishing out more money to pay for a law firm representing them. The City Council approved two resolutions on Wednesday. Each a request to continue services with the law firm representing them. Those services could cost the city up to $150,000 in additional funds. KHON2.

A grand jury declined to indict a Honolulu Police Sergeant caught on surveillance video punching his girlfriend. The video, taken on September 8 at a Waipahu Restaurant, shows Sgt. Darren Cachola hitting the woman. She testified on his behalf Wednesday morning saying they were just playing around. Hawaii News Now.

A grand jury has declined to indict a Honolulu police sergeant who was captured on video apparently punching his girlfriend. Star-Advertiser.

A decorated police officer caught on video taking a swipe at a bystander who was recording an arrest on his iPhone will cost Honolulu taxpayers $37,500. On Wednesday, the Honolulu City Council approved the payout to Randy Salazar Jr., who in a federal lawsuit alleges Officer Robert Steiner broke a bone in his hand after hitting him with a Taser on New Year’s Day 2013. Civil Beat.

There's a heated battle brewing in Hawaii's state senate. District 12 incumbent Brickwood Galuteria is facing a challenge from newcomer Chris Lethem. KITV4.

A state judge expressed concern Wednesday about the handling of a large gambling case by the prosecutor's office that resulted in charges against nine people in connection with sweepstakes gaming machines. Star-Advertiser.

Wahiawa General Hospital, which last week was accused of owing University of Hawaii-affiliated doctors $800,000 in back pay, said this week it withheld the payments because UH owes the hospital more than $1 million from an insurance fraud settlement. Star-Advertiser.

The number of palm-damaging coconut rhinoceros beetles discovered on Oahu continues to rise, with the count close to 2,000 for adults and immature insects uncovered along the isle's south coast, a state official said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Outrigger Enterprises Group has submitted a notice of preparation for a supplemental environmental impact statement for its $100 million redevelopment of the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort as part of its Waikiki Beach Walk project. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

As the June 27 lava flow continues on its trajectory for Pahoa, state health officials are asking lower Puna residents who depend on regular medical treatment to consider evacuating. Patients who receive oxygen, dialysis and other regular care that may require travel to or from Puna via Highway 130 will likely be impacted by lava crossing Highway 130, Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira said Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope say they will continue to pursue court actions to stop the $1.4 billion project and protest its construction following the disruption of its groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday on Mauna Kea. The protest appeared to be the first of its kind on the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

Special video presentation detailing the long road to the TMT groundbreaking using file footage gathered by Big Island Video News from 2008 to today.

A Google-sponsored startup hopes to be testing a new way to generate electricity with wind on the Big Island by this time next year. Makani, formerly Makani Wind, joined with the tech giant last year, the first of what has become the Google X division projects, said Alden Woodrow, business team lead. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Economic Opportunity Transportation will begin moving to its new Puunene facility near the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum on Monday, but the public will not notice any changes in service, the nonprofit agency said. Maui News.

With the planned historic release of mauka to makai stream flow at ʻĪao planned on Monday, the state Commission on Water Resource Management is seeking assurances that compliance is clear and that the agreement is carried out by parties involved in the contested case. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council approved on Wednesday the state’s first variable rate structure aimed at encouraging waste diversion by charging property owners waste collection fees based on how much they throw away. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council, by a 4-2 vote Wednesday, opted to revisit in two weeks a request for an investigation into what one council member says are numerous violations of county law by the island’s agrochemical industry and large landowners. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has started testing energy-efficient LED street lights at four locations as part of its plan to retrofit 3,500 fixtures owned by the County of Kauai and the state of Hawaii. Garden Island.

Molokai

State Department of Health Director Dr. Linda Rosen has a soft spot for Kaluapapa, but her term is nearing its end, and she visited the settlement last week to speak with residents there personally. Molokai Dispatch.

Native Hawaiians, other protesters, block Thirty Meter Telescope ceremonies, heat is on Ige in gubernatorial battle, voter registration up, plans to name beach for Obama dropped, Hawaii could net $13M from marijuana sales, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Protesters block Mauna Kea telescope access, courtesy Occupy Hilo

A groundbreaking and Hawaiian blessing ceremony came to an abrupt end before it could really get underway Tuesday because of protesters who oppose plans to build one of the world's largest telescopes near the summit of a mountain held sacred by Native Hawaiians. Associated Press.

Protesters who say the $1.4 billion Thirty Meter Telescope doesn't belong on Mauna Kea blocked access to the summit for more than an hour Tuesday, disrupting groundbreaking for one of the world's largest optical observatories. Star-Advertiser.

TMT protesters courtesy Occupy Hilo

A groundbreaking ceremony for what will be one of the world’s most advanced observatories was disrupted Tuesday by Native Hawaiian protesters and others opposed to the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea. More than 50 protesters blocked access near the mountain’s summit and greeted vans carrying dozens of attendees from five countries with chants and hula. Tribune-Herald.

What was meant to be a moment of pride for the University of Hawaii and Hawaii astronomy, turned into a spectacle revealing the deep animosity among those who consider Mauna Kea a sacred mountain. Hawaii News Now.

Protesters disrupted a groundbreaking and Hawaiian blessing ceremony for the construction of one of the world's largest telescopes at the summit of Mauna Kea Tuesday. KITV4.

Protester with telescopes courtesy Occupy Hilo

The price tag for the building of a 30-meter telescope on Mauna Kea is $1.4 billion, and it has been seven years in the making, but it literally ran into a roadblock Tuesday on Hawaii Island. KHON2.

TMT groundbreaking ceremony blocked. Demonstrators have blockaded the Mauna Kea access road to protest the Thirty Meter Telescope project, which was set to break ground today. Hawaii Independent.

State Sen. David Ige on Tuesday night took a more piercing tone against his rivals for governor, chiding former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona for improperly filming a campaign advertisement in a state courtroom and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann for his administration's blacklisting of two stagehands after a dispute over a benefit concert. Star-Advertiser.

On Tuesday night, the three leading candidates for governor squared off in a debate sponsored by AARP and held in the KHON2 News studio. Afterward, KHON2 asked political analyst and HPU Communication Department Chair John Hart: “Who do you think won the debate?”

National and local Republicans are scolding the Democratic nominee for Hawaii governor, accusing him of raising taxes and fees. Perhaps the strongest attack concerns a proposal for increasing the state’s general excise tax by 25 percent three years ago. The GOP claims that, as chairman of the state Senate Ways and Means Committee, David Ige was the architect of a draft of a bill that called for the GET hike in 2011. Civil Beat.

The state of Hawaii's web portal is the best in the U.S., according to the e.Republic's Center for Digital Government's 2014 Best of the Web and Digital Government Achievement Awards. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii stands to make more than $13 million each year in tax revenue if it were to fully legalize marijuana. That’s the results of a new study from NerdWallet, which determined this number by analyzing the population of pot smokers in Hawaii - those who acknowledge smoking marijuana - and the marijuana market size here. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

Two Honolulu city councilmen have dropped plans to rename a popular beach for President Barack Obama. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii's flagship Manoa campus is facing a multimillion-dollar tuition shortfall for a fourth straight year as state support continues to decline while energy and personnel costs escalate. Manoa officials are projecting a $31 million deficit for the fiscal year that ends June 30, despite efforts to curb spending. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu is seeking to pay a California law firm experienced in fighting environmental regulations $900,000 in an effort to avoid having to comply with stricter environmental controls at three sewage treatment plants on Oahu that discharge waste into the ocean. Civil Beat.

The author of a bill that would ban sitting and lying on sidewalks in Oahu business districts outside Wai­kiki — scheduled for a final vote Wednesday — says he wants to pull the measure back for further work. Star-Advertiser.

The price tag for refurbishing City Council chambers at Hono­lulu Hale is $428,000, more than three times the $141,000 figure that officials initially said it would cost. Star-Advertiser.

The Makaha Hotel and Resort in West Oahu, which has been closed for about three years, will be demolished as soon as possible to make way for future redevelopment of the property that may include the rebuilding of a new hotel, the owner of the 40-year-old resort told Pacific Business News on Tuesday.

An endangered tree snail atop Oahu's highest point is holding up repairs that would allow Hawaii Public Radio to transmit to listeners on Kauai and Oahu's North Shore during HPR's million-dollar pledge drive. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawai‘i Public Radio’s fall fund drive Celebration 2014 proceeds at its breakneck pace toward its $1.03 million goal, an O‘ahu tree snail colony asserts its own timeline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The Big Island Press Club will present a luncheon panel “Revisiting Hawaii’s Primary Election” at noon Friday at Restaurant Kenichi. Discussion will consider “Could Puna voters have changed the outcome and should media have called victory in the U.S. Senate Democratic contest for Brian Schatz on Aug. 9?” Tribune-Herald.


Hawaii County voters are adding to their numbers at a faster rate than the state as a whole. Some 856 Hawaii County residents have been added to the voter rolls since the Aug. 9 primary election, a statistic that is expected to grow as registrations continue trickling in following Monday’s voter registration deadline. West Hawaii Today.

The front of a lava flow spewing out of Kilauea Volcano advanced 120 to 150 yards and was within one mile of Apaa Street in Pahoa on Tuesday. The flow remained "fairly narrow" and was 0.95 mile from reaching Apaa Street near the waste transfer station, said Hawaii County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira. Star-Advertiser.

As lava from the Kilauea Volcano continues its approach toward Pahoa, schools in the rural community are preparing for the worst. For two public Department of Education and charter schools, that could mean total devastation. Civil Beat.

It is a sight frustrated coffee farmers might line up to see — a hungry predator beetle devouring the larvae of the pestilential coffee berry borer. Researchers at the U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center took that video inside a coffee bean just a few days ago using a microscope, part of a research project that could eventually lead to the square-necked grain beetle being used as biocontrol. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The food fight over GMO's in Maui County will be put to an historic vote in one month. Ashley Lukens, Hawaii Center for Food Safety Director, explained the significance, saying "Never in Maui's history have citizens been able to collect enough signatures to get an initiative on the ballot." 9,000 people signed a petition calling for a halt to seed production, while chemical companies conduct a health and environmental impact study. Hawaii News Now.

The Shaka Movement, the group that filed the petition in support of a moratorium on genetically engineered organisms in Maui County, hosts a public meeting today to discuss Monsanto’s operations in Kīhei. Maui Now.

Wailuku Water Co. will begin releasing 10 million gallons of water per day into Iao Stream on Monday morning, per a settlement agreement in the Na Wai Eha Contested Case, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources said. Maui News.

Oral and written comments on proposed changes to cesspool rules - which include conversion of cesspools to septic tanks when a property is sold - will be accepted at meetings on Molokai on Friday and in Wailuku on Oct. 15, the state Department of Health announced Monday. Maui News.

Kauai
The Kauai County Council will make final decisions on three of eight measures that seek relief for county taxpayers who saw noticeable increases on their real property tax bills this year. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council is urging the state Department of Education to take a hard look at a policy through which students with negative account balances can be denied meals at their schools. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai District Health Officer Dr. Dileep Bal has been nominated to the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced four nominations — Bal, Simeon Acoba, Peter Hoffmann and Helen Nielsen — on Monday. All are interim appointments that take effect immediately and are subject to state Senate approval. Garden Island.

Circuit Court tosses former Speaker Calvin Say's residency challenge, gubernatorial candidates differ on budget, new boss for Kamehameha Schools, Hawaii County builds roads to dodge lava flow, Maui to talk GMO, coral bleaching worsens, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former House Speaker Calvin Say © 2014 All Hawaii News

A Circuit Court judge Tuesday dismissed a legal challenge to state Rep. and former House Speaker Calvin Say's residency, ruling that the state House has the exclusive power to determine the qualifications of its members. Star-Advertiser.

Calvin Say has survived another challenge to his legal residency. In a ruling released Tuesday, Circuit Judge Karen Nakasone said Hawaii courts do not have authority to “judge” the qualifications of House members. That authority resides with the House, which intervened in a lawsuit challenging Say’s residency. Civil Beat.

A Circuit Court judge has dismissed a petition that asks the court to verify the residence of state Rep. Calvin Say. KHON2.

Hawaii gubernatorial candidates had tough questions for their opponents as they debated starting new public-private partnerships to address recurring problems and sparred over who would inflict less pain while balancing the budget. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s top three candidates for governor took on many issues — from the expected to the improbable — during Tuesday evening’s debate. But it remains unclear whether specific policy stances will drive voters on Nov. 4 when they choose between Democrat David Ige, Republican Duke Aiona, Hawaii Independent Party candidate Mufi Hannemann and Libertarian Jeff Davis. Civil Beat.

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann on Tuesday night tried to pin state Sen. David Ige with responsibility for the state's troubled public hospitals, but Ige countered that he has done more than the other two gubernatorial candidates to improve the system. Star-Advertiser.

KITV4 hosted three candidates gunning for the governorship in the station's first televised debate among the final gubernatorial candidates.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said he has far more executive experience than the other two leading candidates for governor, but they said they have backgrounds that prepare them to lead state government. Hawaii News Now.

State Public Safety Director Ted Sakai, named the nation's Outstanding Director of Corrections on Tuesday, said his department is unveiling a pilot program on wellness this month that aims to reduce prison guard sick calls, starting at Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Mark Takai are making last-minute pitches for more money as their tight congressional race enters its final 35 days. Civil Beat.

Livingston "Jack" Wong, who has been the interim CEO of Kamehameha Schools since April when CEO Dee Jay Mailer retired, has been named the third CEO of the $10.1 billion trust, Hawaii's largest private landowner. Pacific Business News.

Warm ocean temperatures have caused large expanses of coral to bleach in the pristine reefs northwest of Hawaii's main islands, scientists said Tuesday. Mass bleaching has occurred at Lisianski atoll, about 1,000 miles northwest of Honolulu, said Courtney Couch, a researcher at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. Coral also bleached at Midway, Pearl and Hermes atolls, but not as severely. Associated Press.

A federal research ship returned to Honolulu from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands on Tuesday with evidence of aquatic species never seen before and having made discoveries of fishes never before recorded in those waters. But scientists also documented some distressing news: a major episode of coral bleaching at remote Lisianski Island, plus moderate bleaching at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge and Pearl and Hermes Atoll. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State lawmakers Tuesday grilled Honolulu's police chief and two of his deputies on policies regarding domestic violence investigations — seeking answers about how officers respond to calls and about what's being done in response to video showing an officer in an apparent assault on his girlfriend. Star-Advertiser.

A Joint Legislative Committee on Public Safety convened an informational briefing today on the Honolulu Police Department’s response to domestic violence cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell plans to create a temporary office to manage city properties, acquire housing for the homeless and advance his affordable housing strategy at a cost of about $500,000 a year, the city’s managing director says. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers and Hawaiian Electric Co. want to give utility customers who don't own rooftop space the opportunity to take advantage of certain benefits of renewable energy. The plan is to create community solar farms or "solar gardens" that give people the option to invest in large-scale solar systems and lower their electrical bills. Star-Advertiser.

Duo bucks eviction from DHHL parcel hosting small farm. A petting zoo on land in Waimanalo has local support as it fights to remain. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Office of Elections was “absurdly out of touch” with the situation in Puna after Tropical Storm Iselle, state Sen. Russell Ruderman said Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

The June 27 lava flow remains weak while inflation, a sign of intruding magma, gradually builds at Kilauea. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Lava Anxiety Triggers Nanawale Exodus. Big Island Video News.

In less than three weeks, Hawai'i County crews completed two emergency bypass roads in the lower Puna area in preparation for the very real possibility that the June 27th lava flow will cut across Highway 130 -- but work is a little slower to begin on a third, and likely the most critical route: Chain of Craters Road, which passes through Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County plans to reinforce its restrictions on accessing Kaohe Homesteads after a tour company was found to be using the neighborhood to reach the June 27 lava flow. County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira said a supplemental emergency proclamation will be issued shortly specifically prohibiting tour groups. Tribune-Herald.

Fall enrollment at University of Hawaii at Hilo declined for the second year in a row, despite hopes by administrators the university could maintain last year’s student levels. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

"Living Downwind from Monsanto's GMO Fields, are We Risking Our Health?" is the title of a panel discussion to be held on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Kihei Community Center. Maui Weekly.

Maui Electric Co. proposes to reduce customer bills by, among other things, switching from costly diesel fuel to lower-cost liquefied natural gas for its electric generation plants, but Maui County Energy Commissioner Doug McLeod is challenging other parts of the utility's power supply improvement plans and questioning the long-term viability of natural gas. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council will consider today a set of seven measures that aim to reform current real property tax laws and assist some property owners who received noticeable increases on their tax bills over the past two months. Garden Island.

Craig DeCosta, Daniel Hempey, and Greg Meyers will each be known as Judge, effective Oct. 1. Garden Island.

Federal judge says Hawaii can't deny guns to immigrants, gubernatorial candidates agree health exchange a mistake, Hawaii congressional candidates have key differences, recycled glass piling up on Oahu, lava flow slows, spreads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii federal courthouse

A federal judge says a Hawaii law that prohibits immigrants from getting a firearms permit is unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Michael Seabright granted a motion last week, which allows Steve Fotoudis, a permanent resident in Honolulu, to apply for a firearms permit. KHON2.

Three candidates competing to represent Hawaii as governor agreed that Hawaii made mistakes in the way it built its troubled health exchange. Associated Press.

Civil Beat Poll: Public-Private Preschool Amendment Divides Voters. In other constitutional questions on ballot, voters oppose increasing the retirement ages of judges, but want the names of nominees made public.

First Congressional District candidates Charles Djou and Mark Takai on Tuesday night mixed it up for the first time, restating their Republican and Democratic party philosophies to a predominantly pro-business audience at a Chamber of Commerce Hawaii forum. Star-Advertiser.

Djou and Takai: Similar Backgrounds, Vastly Different Style. The congressional candidates differ over Jones Act and war on ISIS in Tuesday night event. In a bonus bout, the candidates for governor go after each other. Civil Beat.

The debate is on between Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Mark Takai.  For the first time Hawaii's Congressional Candidates for district one squared off face to face in front of 100 of the state's top business leaders from the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Political activist Karen Chun of Maui has filed a complaint with the Hawaiʻi Campaign Spending Commission alleging that the Hawaiʻi Carpenters Recovery Market Fund has violated state law by not disclosing the original source of their funds. Maui Now.

State agrees to revise public demonstration rules. An ACLU first amendment lawsuit has been settled with the state promising to change its rules concerning public demonstrations on state property to make it easier to exercise first amendment rights. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii business executives Chris Eldridge, who founded Hawaii's largest mattress supplier and is a partner in a local biofuel project, and Dustin Sellers, who was co-president of one of Hawaii's largest HR services provider, are moving from the operational side of business and getting into investments. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department's criminal investigation into the alleged domestic abuse case involving Sgt. Darren Cachola has been completed and turned over to city Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro, according to HPD Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

An unusual look behind the scenes of a corporate public relations campaign has been provided by an ongoing class action lawsuit pitting homeowners in a major planned community in Ewa against the developer of the project. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now has learned that more than 14,000 tons of crushed glass wound up in a Mililani farm -- even though the city paid more than a million dollars to process it for recycling.

Honolulu City Council District Four is home to some of the richest residents in the state.   Stretching from Hawai’i Kai to Waikiki, the district has the highest property values on O’ahu.  The Kahala Business Association hosted the two candidates running to represent the area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

If lower Puna is cut off from the rest of the island because of lava, more than 250 businesses and more than 9,400 residents could be severely impacted. Tribune-Herald.

Puna Geothermal Venture Plant Manager Cliff Townsend and Director of Hawaiian Affairs Mike Kaleikini discuss contingency plans at a meeting held Monday night at Kua O Ka La Charter School. Big Island Video News.

Maui

More than a dozen dogs have been roaming the Front Street area of Lahaina for the past couple of months, killing pets and feral cats and prompting residents' calls for help from the Maui Humane Society and Maui police. Maui News.

Ige leads gubernatorial poll, Hawaii Micronesians ask Supreme Court for health care, Ellison plans to triple Lanai City, lava advance slows, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

© 2014 All Hawaii News

Democrat David Ige has a 4 percentage point lead over Republican Duke Aiona in the Hawaii governor’s race. Ige, a state senator, is up 43 percent to 39 percent over Aiona, the former lieutenant governor. Just 8 percent of voters favor Mufi Hannemann, the former Honolulu mayor running as the candidate of the Hawaii Independent Party. Civil Beat.

While Hawaii doctors get paid slightly more than the national average, the state has the third-highest cost of living, making it difficult to attract and retain physicians, according to the Hawaii Medical Association. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission will consider a request this week by Civil Beat and the League of Women Voters to release the financial disclosure statements of dozens of powerful state board members. The news outlet and good-government group want the documents filed by members of the 15 boards that the Legislature unanimously required to publicly disclose their financial interests.

Hawai‘i’s alternative industries get a boost. More than $5 million in federal grants will help develop Hawai‘i's agriculture, clean tech, manufacturing and healthcare industries. Hawaii Independent.

Three Micronesians living in Hawaii are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear their case about being denied health benefits by the state. The appeal, which was submitted Sept. 9, is being described by attorneys for the plaintiffs as an urgent matter. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Robert Bley-Vroman, interim chancellor for the University of Hawaii at Manoa, has called for an internal review of the UH Cancer Center. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Lava from the June 27 flow continued to advance slowly Sunday as fire fighters worked to contain a brushfire nearby. Hawaii County Civil Defense reported Sunday that the flow advanced 75 yards between its daily overflights. Tribune-Herald.

A public hearing by the state House Health Committee is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday at Kona Community Hospital in Kealakekua. Tribune-Herald.

Companies, researchers looking for new ways to protect Hawaii’s reefs. West Hawaii Today.

Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an order requiring the County of Hawaii to repair the Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant’s ocean outfall pipe. The pipe is leaking treated wastewater close to shore, posing a potential risk to the marine environment and public health. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui

Only planes with nine passengers or less currently use Hana Airport, but the state is planning to add features that would allow the remote airport to accommodate larger aircraft with up to 30 passenger seats. Maui News.

Fast-food chains at the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center were among the first Maui eateries to receive the state Health Department's new food safety placards, and so far, the store managers say they're happy with the new system. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Fire Department wants to hear from the public about what kind of service it wants in the future. But meetings so far in Kapaa, Koloa and Kilauea drew little interest. Garden Island.

The first in a two-part series looking at a loophole in the medical marijuana industry that allows patients to possess and use the substance, but not obtain it unless they grow it themselves. Garden Island.

The second in a two-part series looking at a loophole in the medical marijuana industry that allows patients to possess and use the substance in Hawaii, but not obtain it unless they grow it themselves. Garden Island.

Lanai

His Island, His Vision. Larry Ellison plans to triple the size of tiny Lanai City and double the population. First there was the world's largest pineapple plantation. Then there were a pair of fancy resorts. As the principal industry on Lanai, neither was diversified and both proved financially unsustainable. Star-Advertiser.

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

Honolulu homeless © 2014 All Hawaii News

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

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

© 2014 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

Molokai

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

Mauna Loa grumbles, Maui utility opposes undersea cable, Kakaako at center of governor debate, investor may save Maui Sugar Cane Train, plan to eliminate cesspools, Land Board OKs Sand Island homeless camp, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hiking Mauna Loa © 2014 All Hawaii News

As Kilauea continues to threaten lower Puna, geologists are also keeping their eye on the volcano’s much larger cousin — Mauna Loa. According to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on the planet, has been rumbling and showing signs of awakening for over a year. Tribune-Herald.

As Puna residents brace for the approaching lava flow from Kilauea Volcano, its larger sibling continues to show signs of awakening. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann wants Hawaii voters to do something they have never done before: elect an independent as governor. After embarrassing, lopsided losses in Demo­cratic primaries for Congress in 2012 and governor in 2010, Hannemann has reinvented himself with the new Hawaii Independent Party. Star-Advertiser.

Rivals differ on strategies for Native Hawaiians. Charles Djou vows to get his party to take up sovereignty, and Mark Takai would focus on preserving federal benefits. Star-Advertiser.

A new report on the nation’s growing income gap finds that stagnant wages for most Americans have dampened consumer spending, and that’s bad for states like Hawaii that depend heavily on sales taxes to keep their governments running. Associated Press.

A draft plan by the state Department of Health is raising a stink among local real estate agents and builders who say proposed rules requiring that septic tank systems replace cesspools could add $10,000 to the price of a new home and make buying and selling existing homes less affordable. West Hawaii Today.

Come November, voters will decide whether to change Hawaii’s constitution and allow the state to spend public money on private preschool programs. Civil Beat.

State roundup for Sept. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

Three Candidates, Three Views on Future of Fast-Growing Kakaako. Mufi Hannemann, David Ige and Duke Aiona discuss housing, infrastructure and the governor's influence on the area under control of state redevelopment district. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i’s Board of Land and Natural Resources gave the green light for the city’s plan to temporarily create a homeless site on Sand Island. The board voted 5 - 1 to approve a three-year lease of the land, free of charge. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5-1 on Friday to approve a city petition to lease about 5 acres of state land to the city rent free for a temporary homeless encampment on Sand Island. Civil Beat.

A single-family home on the waterfront in Honolulu costs 335 percent more than its inland counterpart, according to a study by the online real estate company Zillow. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The lava flow threatening Pahoa and surrounding areas shifted to a more northerly direction this weekend, and showed signs of having slowed between Friday and Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea Volcano's June 27 flow shifted to the north Sunday, moving the front away from Kaohe Homesteads but toward Pahoa Village and the area's main highway. Star-Advertiser.

Four West Hawaii prosecutors made the list of six finalists to replace retired District Court Judge Joseph P. Florendo. On the list are prosecutors Jeffrey Burleson, Michael Schlueter, Cynthia Tai and Kimberly Taniyama, Deputy Public Defender Wendy DeWeese and Deputy Corporation Counsel Margaret Masunaga. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Efforts to save and revive the Sugar Cane Train remained on track with a Hawaii investor "seriously pursuing the acquisition" of the 45-year-old attraction and continuing its operation in West Maui, according to members of a nonprofit group being formed to save the train. Maui News.

A high-voltage undersea cable between Maui and Oahu, estimated to cost $700 million or more, is not needed and would not be cost effective, Maui Electric Co. has concluded. Maui News.

A former chef and Lahaina citrus grower is being honored this weekend with an award from the Hawaiʻi Tropical Fruit Growers organization. Maui Now.

Kauai

Embattled retired car dealer James Pflueger reportedly was scheduled to finalize the sale Friday of 383 acres near the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore where a massive mudslide occurred in 2001 because of reckless and unauthorized grading and landscaping. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Dairy Farms’ revised plan for 578 acres in Mahaulepu continues to cause a stink for one South Shore resort and a number of local residents. Garden Island.