Diamond Head certificate seller cited, lawmakers mull emergency preparedness, pot brownies send schoolgirls to hospital, Maui plans landfill expansion, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

DLNR cites Diamond Head certificate seller, courtesy photo

State halts Diamond Head hawker’s venture. Tourists who make it to the top of Diamond Head State Monument have been buying certificates from Christopher Barclay for years. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR cited man for allegedly asking people for $5 when they reach the summit of Diamond Head. KITV.

State officers issued a cease and desist order to a man for was allegedly selling items on top of Diamond Head without a permit. Hawaii News Now.

State officials have cited a man for conducting commercial activities on top of Diamond Head without a permit. KHON2.

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Are Hawaii Industries At Risk If A Trade War Breaks Out? The islands make more from exported scrap metals than from coffee, cocoa, macadamia nuts and papaya combined. Civil Beat.

Government Transparency An Early Loser In Legislative Session. Open government bills have mostly died, and some measures restricting information are still alive. Civil Beat.

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The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency on Thursday laid out for lawmakers what could happen if a “worst-case scenario” tsunami or hurricane hit the vital port region with 3 feet of water and high winds. Star-Advertiser.

HI-EMA say the state does not have enough shelters if a category 3 or above hurricane hits the island. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency unveiled scenarios showing a direct hit could shut down Honolulu Harbor and cause food and water to reach critical levels within five days. KITV.

Lawmakers discuss Hawaii's preparedness for disaster. It's unimaginable to think about but what would happen if another disaster hit Hawaii? That's the question lawmakers focused on Thursday. KHON2.

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A bill that would shift authority over the state’s airports from the Department of Transportation to an airport corporation was successfully passed Thursday by the state Senate. Tribune-Herald.

FBI joins investigation into OHA spending, contracts. Multiple sources say the state and federal authorities have broadened their probe, requesting copies of OHA contracts, trustee emails and financial records of OHA’s nonprofit subsidiaries. Hawaii News Now.

The Federal Trade Commission has agreed to allow the parent companies of the state’s only two air ambulance providers to merge as long as one of the medevac firms is sold to prevent a monopoly in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

New Boeing aircraft opens up possibility for Hawaiian to launch nonstop Europe flights. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Rail Agency To Buy Trucks For Power Company — And Save $130M. It’s a rare financial bright spot for the massive Honolulu project, which has struggled to stay on budget. Civil Beat.

The United States Army had an awkward moment Thursday when an air-dropped package missed its mark by about five miles. Hawaii News Now.

YMCA sues developer over failed plans for Central Oahu location. The four-story, multicolored building across from the Ala Moana Hotel is also an affordable residential facility for both men and women. Hawaii News Now.

The residents of a large homeless encampment near the Waianae Small Boat Harbor say they are agitated and worried about their future after state officials publicly announced this week that they would be working to close the camp in the coming months. Star-Advertiser.

State Plans To Sweep Longtime Homeless Camp At Waianae Boat Harbor. For more than a decade, people have been living in the self-governed community, and about 200 are there now. Civil Beat.

A recent court decision is casting new light on what to do about Red Hill. It's where the military has 20 massive underground steel tanks; one, which leaked 27,000 gallons. A circuit court judge ruled that the state Department of Health improperly gave the military an exemption from underground fuel storage rules. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Army-Air Force effort to fly major equipment between islands for quick aid. From the belly of the C-17 Globemaster at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport on Thursday rolled out two Ford F-550 brush trucks ready to head to Pohakuloa Training Area. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor luncheon connects biz, county leaders; today final day for tickets. West Hawaii Today.

Reported pot brownies send 2 Kealakehe students to hospital. Hawaii Island police responded to Kealakehe High School at 12:15 p.m. Thursday to a report of a female juvenile being transported to the Kona Community Hospital by medics after ingesting a brownie, passing out and experiencing convulsions. West Hawaii Today.

Two female juveniles at Kealakehe High School were taken to Kona Community Hospital after eating brownies that are believed to have contained marijuana, police say. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The county Department of Environmental Management is proposing a 41-acre addition to the Central Maui Landfill in Puunene that would include a storage area for abandoned vehicles, a metals processing facility, a recycling area for building and demolition wastes and a facility for managing and holding of household hazardous and electronic wastes. Maui News.

Single family home sales on Maui increased 51% from this time last year and 10% from month before levels, according to new data released by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui Now.

Kahului-headquartered Haleakala Solar has been sold to California-based PetersenDean Roofing & Solar, which has plans for significant expansion of the four-decade-old photovoltaic, battery storage and water heater installation company. Maui News.

Maui-based Fork & Salad is planning a Mainland expansion through a partnership with franchisor Fransmart, which is responsible for expanding such brands as Five Guys Burgers & Fries and Qdoba Mexican Grill. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Monk seal population is growing. Currently, an average of between three and five seals are reported daily at Poipu as compared to between one and five seals reported over the past few years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. Garden Island.

Vandals strike at Poipu Beach Park. A newly improved playground at Poipu Beach Park was discovered vandalized by members of the public on Tuesday. Garden Island.

Audit finds Office of Hawaiian Affairs spent millions inappropriately, Honolulu threatens to cancel $53.6M traffic management contract, Maui won't pay mayor's legal fees, plastic straws, tiny homes, police standards mulled in Legislature, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii police officers ©2018 All Hawaii News

Bill To Regulate Police Officers Clears Another Hurdle. Hawaii is one of the few states without minimum standards for cops, but the Legislature is considering a measure to change that. Civil Beat.

The state agency responsible for improving the well-being of Native Hawaiians spent nearly double the amount on pet projects than on competitive grants, the state auditor said in a report released Tuesday. Associated Press.

Audit finds inappropriate spending of millions by OHA and trustees. During fiscal year 2015 and 2016, OHA spent nearly double as much on discretionary disbursements — $14 million — as it did on planned, budgeted and properly vetted and monitored grants — $7.7 million. Star-Advertiser.

After release of critical audit, OHA leaders admit: 'Change needs to happen'. Hawaii News Now.

State audit claims Office of Hawaiian Affairs misspent millions ‘with little restraint’. KHON2.

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Some hotels ditch plastic straws. Now, lawmakers want to ban their use. Hawaii News Now.

Bills Seek Tiny Homes on Hawaiian Home Lands. Senate Bill 2424 and House Bill 2473 seek to establish a public private partnership to leverage $5 million in state funds to create a $20 million revolving loan fund for the development of affordable tiny homes on Hawaiian Home Lands. Maui Now.

Bill Would Spare Micronesians A Yearly Trip To The DMV. The Department of Transportation opposes the measure, saying it could render all Hawaii driver’s licenses useless for flying. Civil Beat.

A Kansas father and husband who is fighting efforts to deport him to Bangladesh was taken off a plane that was flying him back to his native country and is being held at a detention center in Hawaii, his attorneys said today. Associated Press.

Congressional Budget Deal Likely Means More Federal Money For Hawaii. President Trump proposed massive cutbacks, but the opposite is likely to happen after a bipartisan deal lifted spending caps. Civil Beat.

The number of outpatient flu visits in Hawaii continues to remain higher than the national base line. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Board on Geographic Names Mulls Changes. Iao Stream or Wailuku River? Mauna Kea or Maunakea? These are just a couple of the challenges before the Hawaii Board of Geographic Names. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The city has issued a notice of default to the contractor of the $53.6 million state-city Joint Traffic Management Center, citing numerous deficiencies on the part of Watts Constructors LLC that could delay the project’s completion. Star-Advertiser.

City threatens to cancel contract for multi-million dollar traffic center if problems linger. Hawaii News Now.

Rail Promised Lots Of Jobs But There’s No Sure Count Of What It’s Delivering. HART doesn’t keep track of the totals, but its point-in-time counts suggest fewer people are employed than had been projected. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Rail Project Pursuing Public-Private Partnerships for City Center Segment. The Honolulu Rail Transit Project is hosting a 2-day forum to attract private development partners. Hawaii Public Radio.

By a 5-4 vote the Honolulu City Council decided to postpone for two weeks a vote on a bill that would temporarily stop the city Department of Planning and Permitting from issuing building permits for larger-­scale houses. Star-Advertiser.

Settlement reached in alleged 2012 police brutality, cover-up case. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye Airport will get a new $1.1 billion concourse to increase the number of gates, add passenger capacity and provide a new international arrivals area, Gov. David Ige announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige, alongside the Hawaii Department of Transportation and members of the Airlines Committee of Hawaii, announced plans for a new $1.1 billion Diamond Head Concourse at the Honolulu international airport that will be built out over the next 10 years. Pacific Business News.

Leadership in the state House of Representatives tabled a bill Tuesday that would have protected roughly 200 residents of a long-standing homeless encampment near the Waianae Small Boat Harbor from being swept from the state-owned property. Star-Advertiser.

New renderings revealed Tuesday show the vision for the new Blaisdell Center in Honolulu. KITV.

A former employee of Waste Management Inc., operator of the city’s Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill admits to stealing more than $800,000. Star-Advertiser.

Waialua High School’s Glenn Lee, who kicked off Hawaii’s robotics movement, is the only American to reach the top 10 as a finalist out of 30,000 entries in the $1 million Global Teacher Prize competition. Star-Advertiser.

A Waialua teacher inches closer to a global teaching award, and its $1M prize. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

With a do-or-die hearing of a bill raising the general excise tax scheduled for next week, the administration and County Council are holding a bevy of last-minute community meetings to get feedback and explain their budget straits. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim and Finance Director Deanna Sako fielded questions and heard statements Tuesday night from West Hawaii residents sharing their voices on a proposal to raise the county’s general excise tax by one-half percent. West Hawaii Today.

A bill to fund two Big Island homeless villages died in the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee Tuesday after clearing its first two committees. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor’s plea for legal fees in Taylor suit shot down by panel. A Maui County Council committee on Tuesday voted against having the county foot the bill for private attorneys to defend Mayor Alan Arakawa and Maui County in a lawsuit filed by water director David Taylor, who is seeking to get back to work and off paid leave. Maui News.

The state Supreme Court has dismissed a misdemeanor charge against a weekly tabloid publisher who was detained when he used his cellphone to videotape a police traffic enforcement operation six years ago. Maui News.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has dismissed a misdemeanor charge against a weekly tabloid publisher who was detained when he used his cellphone to videotape a police traffic enforcement operation six years ago. Associated Press.

Kauai

The Federal Aviation Administration and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources have initiated an investigation into a report of a drone that struck a tour helicopter on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Realtor Neal Norman of Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers has listed a 16,000-square-foot home on 18.25 acres above Secret Beach on Kauai for $35 million. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

The majority of the county offices in the Mitchell Pauole Center in Kaunakakai will be moving to room No. 300 in the Moore Center at 2 Kamoi St. later this week due to a leaky roof. Maui News.

Sanctuary bill advances in Hawaii Legislature, medical marijuana for tourists, $15 minimum wage mulled, Chinatown cancels Chinese New Year fest, corrections officers call in sick to watch Super Bowl, police union strikes back at new Honolulu chief, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii road ©2018 All Hawaii News

Hawaii still ranks at the bottom when it comes to road conditions given the amount of money the state pours into them. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers advance ‘sanctuary’ bill akin to California. A bill to prohibit Hawaii law enforcement agencies from honoring most federal immigration holds or sharing certain types of information with immigration authorities has won preliminary approval from state Senate and House committees. Star-Advertiser.

A number of bills addressing homelessness are being considered by the Hawaii Legislature. A bill to establish safe zones for homeless campers, complete with hygiene facilities and social services, does not have the support of the administration. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii May Allow Tourists To Buy Medical Marijuana. Lawmakers also may add vaporizers, more potent products and edibles to dispensaries’ product repertoire. Civil Beat.

Should "Home Inspectors" in Hawaii be licensed or regulated by the state? The idea is being talked about in the inspection industry and at the State Capital. KITV.

A Hawaii state representative has proposed a law that he says would help reduce the islands’ overwhelming number of discarded vehicles. Associated Press.

Measures intended to boost the state’s economy by increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour over the next two years and to create a family leave plan to help family caregivers were advanced on Tuesday by the Senate Committee on Labor. Maui Now.

Ige taps former union executive to head Hawaii's labor department. Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Wednesday appointed Leonard Hoshijo to head the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Pacific Business News.

The state is seeking to hire out-of-state contractors to help clear a backlog of health inspections of dialysis centers and other medical facilities. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 30 percent of Hawaii’s prison guards called in sick on Super Bowl Sunday, state officials said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

One third of corrections officers assigned to work on Super Bowl Sunday called in sick. Hawaii News Now.

OHA Demands Financial Details From Its Own Companies. Organizations created by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs will have to provide documents for an internal audit. Civil Beat.

Legislature Keeps Written Testimony Under Wraps Til The Last Minute. The common practice of not releasing testimony to the public until an hour before a hearing has one Republican lawmaker pushing for change. Civil Beat.

Hundreds send in ideas to improve missile alert system. Star-Advertiser.

Why We Didn’t Name Hawaii’s ‘Button Pusher’. Numerous media outlets agreed to publish interviews with the man who sent out the false alert without saying who he was. Civil Beat.

PUC approves HECO demand response programs, allowing the utility to control customers' equipment. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Ranks No.4 for Highest Density of Millionaires. Hawaii  previously held the number one ranking in 2010.  In 2017, Hawaiʻi ranked #4 behind #3 Connecticut, #2 New Jersey and #1 Maryland. Maui Now.

Oahu

Hawaii Police Union Strikes Back At Chief Ballard Over Reassignments. SHOPO files a complaint alleging the Honolulu police chief made “false and disparaging remarks” about union leaders. Civil Beat.

SHOPO president Tenari Maafala has filed a complaint against Chief Susan Ballard with the Hawaii Labor Relations Board. KHON2.

The state Department of Health issued a high level of bacteria advisory this afternoon for Hanauma Bay, resulting in the closure of the popular snorkeling spot. Star-Advertiser.

The city has closed Hanauma Bay after high bacteria levels were detected Wednesday, and the popular preserve won't reopen until Friday at the earliest. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has rejected a World Surf League request to swap permits for two contests on the North Shore — a decision the organization says could force it to pull its championship tour competitions from Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Permit issues could jeopardize high-profile North Shore surf contest. KHON2.

State lawmakers are taking another crack at resolving a flap over two brothers charging for parking along Kakaako streets to which they claim ownership despite decades of public use. Star-Advertiser.

The Chinatown Merchants Association has abruptly canceled Saturday’s “Night in Chinatown Festival and Parade” to celebrate the Year of the Dog due to lack of funding. Associated Press.

Community members and event organizers are shocked and disappointed that a popular event that attracts thousands to Chinatown to celebrate Chinese New Year was canceled at the last minute due to a lack of vendors. Star-Advertiser.

How a vending machine packed with food and toiletries could help the homeless. Hawaii News Now.

After months-long repair project, new security Kakaako Waterfront is a new park. Hawaii News Now.

The newly minted Honolulu Climate Change Commission met for the first time Wednesday, electing a chairman and vowing to make addressing the impact of sea level rise on Oahu its first order of business. Star-Advertiser.

Kupuna in an affordable housing complex in Kakaako were given quite the scare last week. They received notices that their rent would soon increase – some would even double. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Shack Hawaii Kai announced it will be closing its doors after 26 years in business. KITV.

Hawaii Island

An attempt by the County Council to regulate vacation rentals is drawing a lot of interest — and concern — from part-time residents who rent out their homes and condos to help pay the bills. West Hawaii Today.

A bill that would establish a one-half percent general excise and use tax surcharge on the Big Island was heard by the Hawaii County Council Finance Committee on Feb. 6. Big Island Video News.


The county planning director has recommended that a proposal to build a roughly 5,800-square-foot 18-hole golf putting course next to Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa be approved. West Hawaii Today.

Emotions ran high at a recent meeting about the possible closure of a Big Island charter school. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Ten drownings in three weeks on Maui have grabbed the attention of Hawaii lawmakers who want the state to step up ocean safety efforts in the isles. Civil Beat.


Anaergia Services plans to meet with Maui EKO Systems once a month about possibly continuing to process the county’s green waste at the Central Maui Landfill, while the energy company moves forward with its proposed renewable energy project at the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility, officials from both companies said. Maui News.

Commercial waste haulers need to pay fees. Maui News.

The County Department of Environmental Management announced that as of Tuesday Feb. 20, 2018, microwave ovens cannot be accepted for recycling at E-Cycling, Maui County’s Electronic Recycling Program. Maui Now.

Home sales on Maui rose in January, led by a 25 percent increase in condominium sales, while prices were mixed, compared to the same month a year ago, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The public had a lot to say at Wednesday’s Kauai County Council meeting, after a resolution was introduced urging the United States to conduct diplomatic talks with North Korea with the goal of signing a peace treaty. Garden Island.

Kauai Humane Society hasn’t found a permanent leader for the facility, three months after the former executive director handed in his resignation. Garden Island.

Lanai

A community meeting to hear public comments on the proposed design guidelines and standards for the Lanai City Country Town Business District will be held Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, at the Lanai Senior Center at 5 p.m. Maui Now.

Molokai

Maui Electric Co. has inked an agreement to purchase power from Maui County’s first grid-scale solar and battery energy storage system on Molokai that could lower electric bills, the utility announced Tuesday. Maui News.

Souki accused of sexual harassment; Ige edges Hanabusa in campaign contributions, Chin trailing Kim, Tokuda pulls ahead; audit blasts OHA for misspent millions, recreational fishing license, plastic straw ban posed in Legislature, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Speaker Joe Souki, courtesy photo

Former state Department of Human Services Director Rachael Wong has filed a sexual harassment complaint against former House Speaker Joe Souki — a political icon from Maui who for decades has been one of the most powerful lawmakers in the state. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige raked in more than $800,000 in campaign donations for his re-election bid in the last half of 2017 — short of the $1 million he set out to raise in that time frame, but slightly more than his Democratic opponent U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Leads Hanabusa In Campaign Fundraising For Governor’s Race. State Sen. Jill Tokuda tops lieutenant governor candidates, bringing in more donations than her four rivals. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige raised close to $811,000 in the second half of 2017 for his re-election campaign, while U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who will challenge Ige in the Democratic primary, reported donations of almost $732,000. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige raised $810,000 for his re-election campaign during the six months through December, while his primary election opponent U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa raised $731,000. Associated Press.

Ige, Hanabusa neck and neck when it comes to campaign fundraising. Hawaii News Now.

Kim Leads Pack In Congressional Campaign Cash. Attorney General Doug Chin raised less than a fifth as much as Sen. Donna Kim in the race to replace Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

AG Chin to Announce Decision on LG Vacancy by Weeks’ End. Maui Now.

The first Hawaii lieutenant governor from Maui, Shan Tsutsui, left the office Wednesday while his replacement remains up in the air. Maui News.

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Searing Audit Says OHA Misspent Millions Of Dollars. A harshly critical draft audit found the Office of Hawaiian Affairs spent millions of dollars loosely and without proper oversight. Civil Beat.

State to conduct first siren test since false missile alert. Hawaii News Now.

State to conduct monthly warning siren test; internal drill on hold indefinitely. KHON2.

A Hawaii emergency management official who said last week that his retirement had nothing to do with a mistaken missile alert that stirred panic statewide now says it was because of the fallout from the warning. Associated Press.

Worries mount over HI-EMA leadership after resignations announced. Hawaii News Now.

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How many more tourists can the state’s environment and infrastructure support? That’s the question being asked by some residents and lawmakers after a report Wednesday said Hawaii’s visitor industry set five records in 2017, the sixth record-setting year in a row. Star-Advertiser.

New bill aims to allocate some HTA funding to conserve natural resources. Pacific Business News.

A proposal making its way through the state Legislature would require a yearly permit for recreational fishing. KHON2.

Senate bill to ban plastic straws in Hawaii passes committee. KITV.

Hawaii Bail Study Finds Justice Is What You Can Afford. Statewide, almost half of the detainees in our jails are accused but not convicted, many because they cannot afford bail. Hawaii Public Radio.

A former Idaho airport director recently accepted a leadership position with the Hawaii Department of Transportation Airports Division, according to the Idaho Falls ABC affiliate. Pacific Business News.

Large Marine Debris Field or Net Mass Between Molokai and Oahu. Maui Now.

The Coast Guard is advising all mariners to exercise caution after a large marine debris field was last observed in the Ka Iwi Channel between Molokai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Bill to limit ‘monster’ houses advances. Honolulu City Council members say they will take another look at what types of houses would be rejected under a bill imposing a moratorium on large-scale houses after being warned about unintended consequences. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council Advances "Monster Homes" Bill: Special Meeting Monday. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu’s Ala Wai is ranked as one of the most polluted waterways in the country. The State of Hawaii has a plan to clean it up that just received a green light. Hawaii Public Radio.

How A Big Mainland Developer Learned To Thrive In Hawaii. Howard Hughes Corp. seems to stay on course as it navigates burial grounds and being in the path of rail. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's 'last princess' fights for control of her fortune. Multimillionaire heiress Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawananakoa, considered by many to be Hawaii's last princess, is no longer in a position to fund her pet charities, including Iolani Palace and various Native Hawaiian causes. Associated Press.

A new security fence at the Hawaii State Hospital could cost taxpayers millions. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools is making another run at redeveloping 6.5 acres in Moiliili near the University of Hawaii, six years after an unsuccessful effort to create a largely retail and residential “town center” on the site. Star-Advertiser.

Ala Moana Center is valued at $5.74 billion, making it the most valuable real estate investment trust-owned mall in the United States, according to a new study by boutique research firm Boenning & Scattergood. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Long-awaited shooting ranges for the Big Island could take some incremental steps forward, the county Game Management Advisory Commission learned Monday evening. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Medical Center undergoing $28 million in renovations. Tribune-Herald.

2017 was a strong year for tourism on the Big Island. According to data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, arrivals to the Big Island increased by 13.7 percent from 2016, from 1.5 million to 1.7 million. These arrivals spent more than $2 billion on the island last year, about 14 percent more than in 2016. Tribune-Herald.

Another eight classrooms are coming to Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School with the release of more than $12.4 million in funding for a new classroom building at the campus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Director of Water Supply David Taylor, who has been on administrative leave for three months, has filed a lawsuit against Mayor Alan Arakawa and the county over Arakawa’s attempts to remove him from his position. Maui News.

The Hawaii National Guard’s 93rd Civil Support Team along with the United States Coast Guard, paramedics, airport security, Maui police, and firefighters will participate in a large-scale emergency operations exercise beginning Monday, Feb. 5. Maui Now.

Kauai

A $30 million missile touted as a possible second layer of defense for Hawaii from North Korean threats reportedly failed in its first-ever flight from Kauai’s Aegis Ashore facility today when it did not intercept a target representing an intermediate-range ballistic missile. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Missile Defense Test Failed To Intercept Target. The interceptor was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. Associated Press.

Department of Public Safety: Sheriffs will now get involved in Coco Palms occupation. Hawaii News Now.

A Kauai hui involved in a lawsuit against the Hawaii Department of Natural Resources and the agroscience company Syngenta is continuing efforts to require the seed company to conduct an environmental review of their ongoing operations on the island’s Westside.  Garden Island.

Kauai-based KonaRed is partnering with beverage incubator L.A. Libations, an innovation partner of The Coca-Cola Company. Pacific Business News.

Total visitor numbers via air travel for Kauai saw a 7.5 percent increase to 1.3 million in 2017 from 1.2 million in 2016, according to HTA ,and that’s not the only growth the island saw. Garden Island.

Artists spent three days creating a 40-foot-long mural depicting the island’s character on a wall fronting the oceanfront bike path in Kapaa Town — only to paint over it a week later. Garden Island.

The Kauai Lifeguard Association board members recently handed over the keys for a 2018 4 x 4 fully-outfitted Kuhio Auto Ford truck to the County of Kauai’s Ocean Safety Bureau. Garden Island.

Mauna Kea telescope removal sought; 75th anniversary of USS Bowfin; new tax rate for Maui short-term rentals; another Honolulu homeless sweep; Kauai mulls hikes in salaries, taxes; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Caltech Submillimeter Observatory telescope Mauna Kea © 2017 All Hawaii News

Caltech seeks feedback on removal of observatory atop Maunakea, site restoration. The California Institute of Technology is preparing to take removal of its submillimeter telescope atop Maunakea through the regulatory process. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Process Starts To Decommission CSO From Mauna Kea.  Last week, Mauna Kea Management Board members heard from consultants retained to begin the decommissioning process for the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory. Big Island Video News.

USS Bowfin celebrates 75th anniversary of its launch. Star-Advertiser.

4 of last 5 USS Arizona crew members to attend ceremonies. Four of the last five crew members of the USS Arizona will be at Pearl Harbor on Thursday to commemorate the 76th anniversary of the “Day of Infamy” on Dec. 7, 1941. Star-Advertiser.

US Supreme Court Allows Enforcement Of Trump Travel Ban. The court ruled the ban on travel from six Muslim countries can be enforced while legal challenges from Hawaii and other states make their way through the lower courts. Associated Press.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday allowed the Trump administration to fully enforce a ban on travel to the United States by residents of six mostly Muslim countries. Star-Advertiser.

Where Protected Lands Stand After National Monument Review. Trump downsizes two Utah monuments, and rule changes are still under consideration for two preserves in the Pacific. Civil Beat.

Why The Number of Criminal Defendants Sent To The State Hospital Is Soaring. Experts cite Hawaii’s large number of homeless mentally ill, who are often charged with minor crimes, and the lack of preventive services. Civil Beat.

Health and Human Services Providers Gearing Up for Legislative Session. Hawaii Public Radio.

OHA Settles Lawsuit That Pitted Trustee Against Her Colleagues. Former Board Chair Rowena Akana has penned an apology to other trustees, but her legal fees will be covered by the state agency. Civil Beat.

Island Air didn’t fund health plans, may have thwarted COBRA coverage. On Nov. 10, the day Island Air ceased operations, it promised employees it would continue to pay for their health insurance until the end of November. The airline broke that promise. Star-Advertiser.

Judge in Kamehameha Schools case didn't disclose apparent conflict. For more than three years, Circuit Judge Virginia Crandall has presided over the lawsuits against Kamehameha Schools and St. Francis Hospital by former students who accuse a psychiatrist of sexual abuse decades ago. Hawaii News Now.

Western Union to pay restitution to scam victims. Hawaii residents scammed out of money they transferred via Western Union have an opportunity to be paid back. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Whether you drive a car or catch the bus, prepare to pay more for your ride. There have been numerous proposals to increase fees and taxes in Honolulu. KHON2.

The state’s last large homeless sweep of 2017 saw 70 people, 20 dogs and 22 guinea pigs cleared from a public bike path near the H-1 freeway airport viaduct on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

State expands massive homeless sweep to troubled Nimitz bike path. Hawaii News Now.

Councilman Wants A Piece Of The Action In Picking Police Commissioners. Ikaika Anderson seeks to change the selection process for the Honolulu police and fire commissions, whose members are now mayoral appointees. Civil Beat.

Honolulu police inadvertently free suspect wanted in felony case. When Honolulu police arrested a 36-year-old suspected felon on Nov. 1, he had been on the run for more than a month after escaping from court-ordered custody at Kahi Mohala. Star-Advertiser.

UH Manoa’s Sinclair Library to resume 24-hour operation. KHON2.

Hawaii Mexican food chain Maui Tacos has opened its third Oahu location in the Waipahu Town Center. Pacific Business News.

Rumours Night Club, the site of thousands of parties, pau hana gatherings and more than few high school dances, will close in January after 34 years. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The county is raising tipping fees at its landfills even more than previously considered. The County Council Finance Committee on Monday advanced Bill 82, increasing the price haulers pay at the county’s Hilo and West Hawaii landfills by 36.4 percent over the next five years. Tipping fees were last raised in 2007. West Hawaii Today.

VIDEO: Eminent Domain For Pahala Wastewater Plant Deferred. The parties involved in the taking of lands from Kamehameha Schools in Pahala for a future wastewater treatment plant were not exactly on the same page. Big Island Video News.

The Hawaii County Department of Water Supply has detected trace amounts of dalapon — a commonly used herbicide — in two South Kona water sources, the department announced in a press release Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Buying Local Beyond the Holidays. For one of Hawaii's few remaining locally-owned grocery chains “buy local” is a year-round effort, and has been for nearly three decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Tax rate for short-term rentals created. Permitted operators are worried the higher rates will penalize law-abiding owners. Maui News.

Testimony Supports Keeping Water Director. Council members agreed to refer the item to committee for discussion so that they can hear from both Director Taylor and Mayor Alan Arakawa.  The item is expected to be discharged back to the council for a full vote on Dec. 15. Maui Now.

Sunscreen ban is postponed. Council wants attorneys to sign off on measure first. Maui News.

Rehabilitation of Kalahaku Overlook Focus of Dec. 7 Meeting. The National Park Service will host a public meeting about proposed plans to rehabilitate the Kalahaku Overlook at an upcoming meeting slated for 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017, the Pukalani Community Center pool meeting room. Maui Now.

Students at Kahului Elementary go back to class. A Nov. 24 fire over the Thanksgiving break charred classrooms, damaged waterlines. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines is beginning nonstop daily service between Kahului and San Diego and expanding seasonal summer service, including its first to an international location. Star-Advertiser.

U-Haul International Inc. is converting a former Kmart store in Kahului to the company’s first self-storage facility on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Commentary: Proposed increases in salaries, taxes a quandary. Two items on Wednesday’s Kauai County Council meeting deserve the public’s attention. Garden Island.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will loan the Makana North Shore Urgent Care $1.1 million to complete construction and help with operating costs of a new urgent care clinic to serve Kauai’s North Shore community. Pacific Business News.

North Shore clinic receives USDA loan; scheduled to open Spring 2018. The Makana North Shore Urgent Care clinic in Princeville will receive a loan of about $1.1 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to complete construction and help with operating costs. Garden Island.

New system for county finance. Customers may experience some slight delays with services, as county cashiers are becoming familiar with the new system. Garden Island.

Trump to stay in Waikiki, doubts raised about sailors adrift, Ige pledges oversight of Kakaako parks, coastal zone regulations eased, Maui News kills postal delivery, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Children with paddleboard in Keaukaha © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's Sustainable Tourism Stamp is Changing Industry Culture. 2017 is being dubbed the Year of Sustainable Travel by the World Tourism Organization. Hawaii Public Radio.

White House releases details of Trump's 12-day trip to Asia. Trump will start the Nov. 3-14 travel with a briefing from the U.S. Pacific Command in Hawaii. He will also visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial during his first trip as president to the Pacific island. Washington Examiner.

President Trump is expected to arrive in Hawaii on Nov. 3, and the White House has started telling local officials that he's planning to stay in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Six U.S. states want to intervene in Hawaii’s lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s travel ban. Associated Press.

Experts raise doubts about Hawaii sailors' harrowing survival tale. The U.S. Coast Guard said today that the two Hawaii women who were lost at sea for five months had an emergency beacon aboard their sailboat that was never activated. Associated Press.

Two high-profile challengers will spice up the races for the embattled Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees. William Aila Jr. and Esther Kiaaina are well-known Native Hawaiians who have spent years working for the state and federal governments, each with an emphasis on conservation and cultural rights. Civil Beat.

Treat PTSD With Medical Cannabis. Combat vets have options for treatment – including medical cannabis -- that could ease their PTSD symptoms. Hawaii Public Radio.

Dialysis clinics stalled waiting on certification. A surge of 700 new Hawaii kidney dialysis patients a year is driving an increase in treatment facilities statewide. Star-Advertiser.

HMSA CEO Michael Gold to retire after 43 years. Michael Gold, the CEO of the Hawaii Medical Service Association, will retire at the end of the year, the board of directors of the state’s largest healthcare provider announced on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu-based American Savings Bank reported net income of $17.6 million for the quarter ending Sept. 30, an increase of 16.5 percent compared to net income of $15.1 million in the third quarter of 2016. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

As Kakaako parks re-open, governor pledges tougher enforcement efforts. Weeks after they were closed for homeless sweeps, Kewalo Basin and Kakaako Gateway parks and Point Panic reopened Monday. Hawaii News Now.

State to hire private security to enforce Kakaako park hours, Ige says. The state will begin regularly enforcing park closures in Kakaako Makai “regardless of housing status,” Gov. David Ige said today, as some of the area’s parks reopened to the public three weeks after sprawling homeless encampments were cleared. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige announces commitment to keep Kakaako Makai safe. KITV.

Kakaako parks reopen with new security measures, but more work needed at Waterfront. KHON2.

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Honolulu police Maj. Susan Ballard will be sworn in as the Honolulu Police Department’s 11th chief at HPD’s South Beretania Street headquarters Wednesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

Susan Ballard To Be Sworn In Wednesday As Honolulu Police Chief. The 32-year veteran will be first woman to lead the police department in its 85-year history. Civil Beat.

A Look At The Business Execs Up For Seats On Honolulu Police Commission. The City Council is set to vote Wednesday on Mayor Caldwell’s nominees, who would join the oversight panel amid a corruption scandal at HPD. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Pacific Rim Society has donated $2.3 million to the East-West Center, one of the largest single donations in its history. Pacific Business News.

Senate Transportation Chairwoman Lorraine Inouye wants lawmakers to order an audit of the over- budget, long-delayed construction of a new maintenance and cargo hangar for Hawaiian Airlines at Daniel K. Ino­uye International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

What lies beneath? As Kakaako develops up, questions raised about infrastructure below. KHON2.

Army to install hundreds of rat traps in Waianae, Koolau mountains. Over the next few months workers from Schofield Barracks will place about 1,000 rat traps in the Waianae and Koolau mountains. Hawaii News Now.

Several cases of scabies have been reported at Makalapa Elementary School, and the principal has alerted parents and staff to keep an eye out for the skin infection, which is caused by a parasitic mite. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Streamlining development permits in coastal zones without limiting public input was a balancing act confronting the Leeward and Windward planning commissions Monday. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward and Leeward Planning Commission met on Monday to consider amendments to rules regarding Special Management Areas. Big Island Video News.

As TMT opponents disrupt a BLNR meeting, the governor and Mayor Kim move forward with a plan for a Living Monument for World Peace on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Mayor Harry Kim is leading a group to establish a living monument on Mauna Kea. Governor Ige tapped on Kim to come up with ideas to create a symbol of peace on the mountain. KITV.

County cracks down on crop theft. Ken Love, executive director of Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers, convened a meeting Friday afternoon at the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Kona Cooperative Extension Service in Kainaliu, which a couple dozen frustrated farmers attended. West Hawaii Today.

Removal of banyan trees at Honomu Park to begin. A contractor says his crew will arrive at Honomu Park today to begin clearing a large banyan tree that fell next to the gym earlier this month. Tribune-Herald.

The National Park Service is investigating the case of a Keaau woman who fell to her death at the Kilauea Crater during the weekend. Tribune-Herald.

Trucking Trash All The Way Across The Big Island. The Hilo landfill is filling up, and plans call for most East Hawaii garbage to be hauled west starting in a year. Civil Beat.

Arthur “Art” Taniguchi, senior vice president and Hawaii Island regional manager, announced that he will retire from Bank of Hawaii in January, after 27 years of service. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui News will rescind its recently announced decision to switch home delivery of the newspaper from carriers to the United States Postal Service. Maui News.

Feral pigs made themselves noticed in Maui’s central plain this summer as motorists dodged them on major roadways and state crews have had to pick up the not-so-fortunate ones as roadkill. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines is looking to hire 70 people for customer and ramp service contract position at Kahului Airport. Hawaii News Now.


The Hyatt Regency Maui welcomes Klara Crocco as its Director of Marketing and Communications. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai’s popular Eastside path is set to complete its span from Lydgate Beach Park to Ahihi Point. And the county is getting a good deal on it. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe

Long-term results in watershed restoration to be studied. Grant funds to benefit efforts on Kahoolawe. Maui News.

Hawaii climate change report discussed, more than 3k students homeless, pidgin in schools, Campaign Spending Commission investigates Maui mayor, Honolulu council passes smoking ban, Ironman clogs Kona roads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Queen Liliuokalani Gardens flooding PC: K.T. Cannon-Eger

Draft Hawaii Sea Level Rise Report Briefed. The State’s Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission conducted its first meeting today and received a briefing on a draft sea level rise report. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 3,000 public school students in Hawaii reported that they were homeless at the start of the 2017 school year, new state figures show. Hawaii News Now.

Pidgin Belongs In Hawaii Schools, Educators Say. The language that emerged from Hawaii’s blending of cultures “is something we have to embrace,” says a high school principal. Civil Beat.

Pidgin English could be used someday in the classroom. KITV.

OHA trustees eliminate 'middle man' charged with managing school funds. The Council for Native Advancement would have received $136,000 per year for the two-year contract to manage the school grants. Hawaii News Now.

How Hawaii Fits Into The Changing World Of Seed Corn Production. A UH researcher lays out the history of the seed corn industry in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

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Southwest confirms it plans flights to Hawaii — and maybe interisland. Southwest President Tom Nealon and Gov. David Ige made the joint announcement late Wednesday afternoon via satellite from Waikiki Beach behind the Royal Hawaiian Resort to an estimated 10,000 Southwest employees at a company party at Universal Studios in Los Angeles. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest Airlines announced Wednesday that it will enter the Hawaii market with ticket sales beginning in 2018. Pacific Business News.

Southwest Airlines finally ended years of speculation, promising low fares for its new service to Hawaii. The company made the official announcement to thousands of employees first during a gathering in Los Angeles. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines announced Wednesday it will begin service in Hawaii. KITV.

Southwest Airlines announced Wednesday it plans to begin selling tickets in 2018 for service to Hawaii. KHON2.

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August broke a string of big reductions in new foreclosure lawsuits filed in Hawaii during the first seven months of this year. Statistics from the state Judiciary show that lenders and other creditors initiated 111 foreclosure cases in August, or 3 percent more than the 108 cases filed in the same month last year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Three bills that would dramatically expand Honolulu’s ban on sitting or lying down on public sidewalks passed their first hurdle at a City Council meeting Wednesday, but not without criticism from testifiers who argued the measures criminalize people without homes. Civil Beat.

A city crew from the Department of Facility Maintenance accompanied by police arrived Wednesday morning in Kakaako, where for a second day they cleared tents and tarps on the Ewa end of Ilalo Street near the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell is expected to sign a bill approved by the Honolulu City Council making it illegal on Oahu to smoke in automobiles when children are present. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council passed Bill 70 in a unanimous vote Wednesday, which would make it illegal to smoke in a vehicle with someone under 18 inside. KHON2.

Bills that would allow a nonprofit to set up parking fees, oversee freight and passenger deliveries, and make other traffic rules in Waikiki won final passage from the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is looking at ways to pay back organic farmers and eco-friendly eateries through two bills that would provide tax incentives to certified businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Clerk Wants Big Increase In The Price Of Voter Data. A new measure would also dramatically raise the price for certifying documents and providing proof of voter registration. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued 19 foreign fishermen and their American captain from a 79-foot U.S.-flagged commercial fishing vessel that ran aground off Waikiki on Tuesday night. Associated Press.

No lights means no pool for Waialua High swim team. Hawaii News Now.

The head of Hawaii Pacific University maintains the school is in solid financial shape despite concerns raised about the tens of millions of dollars the private college borrowed to redevelop Aloha Tower Marketplace amid declining student enrollment. Star-Advertiser.

Jack in the Box has purchased the land beneath one of its leasehold stores in Honolulu from an entity owned by the daughter of the late Hawaii U.S. Sen. Hiram Fong. Pacific Business News.

Sanjiv Hulugalle is leaving his position as general manager of the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina to take on a leadership role with The Resort Group, master developer of Ko Olina Resort. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County Civil Defense is working on emergency response protocols in the unlikely event of a nuclear attack, although details are scarce at the moment. Big Island Video News.

Repair work underway at Akaka Falls State Park, which will be closed Oct. 16-20. Tribune-Herald.

Akaka Falls trail to close for repairs totaling almost $300K. Hawaii News Now.

The Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday will consider a request to set aside more than 35 acres of state land in Kealakehe for the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp. for the purpose of “affordable housing and related purposes.” West Hawaii Today.

Papaikou Democrat Heather Kimball plans to challenge state Sen. Lorraine Inouye for the District 4 seat representing Waikoloa, Waimea, Kohala, Hamakua and parts of Hilo and Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Flags were flying high on Alii Drive Tuesday afternoon as athletes from around the globe came out for the Ironman Parade of Nations in some wet weather. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A two-year Campaign Spending Commission investigation of post-election expenditures reported by Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa’s campaign from Nov. 5, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2016, found 59 “advertising” expenditures to 41 nonprofit and community organizations amounting to more than $47,000. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa went before the state Campaign Spending Commission Wednesday to vigorously defend himself against allegations he broke campaign spending laws. Hawaii News Now.

The first annual review of the performance of county Liquor Control Director Glenn Mukai — who has drawn heavy criticism from residents and community groups for actions by his department — is set for the Liquor Control Commission’s next meeting on Nov. 8, commissioners said. Maui News.

A new grocery delivery service will launch for Central and South Maui residents on Thursday, Oct. 12, that will provide everyday essentials and groceries right to their door in as little as one hour. Maui Now.

Three Maui restaurants were among the top 25 restaurants in the nation honored with TripAdvisor's 2017 Traveler’s Choice awards for the best fine dining in the United States. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

County seeks homeless solutions. The County Housing Agency reported there are a minimum of 412 homeless individuals living on the island, with 115 of them sheltered. Garden Island.

The potential relocation of the Rice Street post office to the carrier annex by the airport is still up in the air. Garden Island.