Government workers to get up to $20k pandemic hazard pay, lawsuit seeks to stop Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines merger, feds allege witness tampering in Kaneshiro trial, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Feds In Corruption Case Accuse Mitsunaga Defense Of Document Leaks And Witness Tampering. Federal prosecutors have launched a new investigation into the incident in the case involving former Honolulu prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii To Pay Government Workers Up To $20K Each For Hazardous Work During Pandemic. Two-tiered settlement with the Green administration awards government employees back pay of either $10,000 or $20,000, depending on how many days they worked. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Governor: State Biosecurity Chief’s Contract Will Not Be Renewed. Carol Okada, the state’s embattled acting biosecurity administrator, will not have a job with the Department of Agriculture after June 29. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit seeks to stop Alaska-Hawaiian merger. A consumer antitrust lawsuit filed Monday in the U.S. District Court for Hawaii seeks to stop the acquisition of the 95-year-old Hawaiian Airlines by Alaska Airlines on the grounds that the merger would result in higher fares, fewer flights, job losses, and cause injury to Hawaii’s economy. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

A new study by Earth scientists at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa studies coastal groundwater that is lifted closer to the surface by sea levels rise. Cities with underground infrastructure in Hawaiʻi, and around the world, face an increased risk of systems failure due to sea level rise.  Big Island Video News. Kauai Now.

Fatality rate in Hawaii due to distracted driving twice as high as the mainland. Hawaii’s fatality rate due to distracted driving is twice as high as the mainland and officials said it’s completely preventable. KHON2.

Taiwan wants to expand its military attache office on Oahu. Taiwan is seeking to increase the size of its military attache office at its de facto consulate in Honolulu as the self-ruled island democracy looks to tighten ties with the United States and bolster defenses against potential Chinese military attacks. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Nanakuli beach to be inaccessible for weeklong homeless cleanup. Outreach workers from the Kealahou West Oahu social service agency on Monday began notifying members of a Nanakuli homeless encampment that the city plans to close a mile-long portion of Ulehawa Beach Park for a week and clean up the area once again as an October court date approaches challenging the city’s homeless policies. Star-Advertiser.

Family identifies cruise ship passenger who died after bus plowed into group. Officials say the shuttle bus driver dropping off passengers hit the gas instead of the brake and pinned several people against concrete barriers. Hawaii News Now.

Solar farm on University of Hawaiʻi land comes online in West Oʻahu. The facility, developed by AES Hawaiʻi, is on 66 acres of open University of Hawaiʻi agricultural land north of the UH West Oʻahu campus in Kapolei. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Testifiers to board: No PTA land swap. People statewide urged the Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday to reject a proposed land exchange between the state and the U.S. Army that would allow it to continue to use land in the Pohakuloa Training Area and elsewhere. Tribune-Herald.

NPR reporter Dara Kerr talks story about billionaire Marc Benioff buying Waimea land.  An NPR story by tech reporter Dara Kerr about billionaire Marc Benioff buying land in and around Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island caused a stir when it was published in February. The audio version aired in March. Hawaii Public Radio.

PUC orders HECO to provide status updates following power outages. The Public Utilities Commission issued an order on Monday requiring Hawaiian Electric to provide a status update on the mitigation measures it intends to implement to address the Hawaii island outage situation, as well as its customer communication strategy regarding conservation measures and the outages. KHON2.

Jr. Tupa‘i enters race for Hawai‘i County mayor. This is Tupa‘i’s second time running for office. In 2022, he was a candidate for lieutenant governor on the Duke Aiona ticket in the gubernatorial race. Big Island Now.

Community meeting to address instream flow standards for Waikōloa. Staff of the Commission on Water Resource Management will host a fact-gathering meeting on Thursday to collect testimony and information to be compiled as part of an Instream Flow Standard Assessment Report. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Mayor Appoints Maria Zielinski As County Finance Director. She would replace former Director Scott Teruya, who has been on paid leave since February. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Maui Council committee reviews budget for Mayor’s Office. Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee reviewed the Mayor’s Fiscal Year 2025 proposed budget for the Office of the Mayor on Wednesday.  Maui Now.

Findings from Lahaina fire investigations being released. Findings from dueling investigations into how government and firefighters responded to the Aug. 8 Lahaina fire, which killed 101 people and left 8,000 homeless, will be released this week. Star-Advertiser.

AG’s wildfire probe doesn’t find fault with first responders, those briefed on report say. (video) Hawaii News Now.

Lahaina’s Wildfire Burned So Hot That Many Dangerous Contaminants Likely Vaporized. Scientists, state officials and the Army Corps of Engineers are finding the burn zone may not be as toxic as initially feared. Civil Beat.

Kauai

‘Project Keiki’ provides lunches and meals on Kaua‘i. Statistically, more than 10,000 local residents continue to struggle with hunger. This includes 1 in 4 keiki. Garden Island

More Hawaii precincts favor GOP, affordable housing funding rejected by Honolulu voters, new permit requirement for lay nets, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Precinct map showing GOP gubernatorial victories ©2022 All Hawaii News

Precinct analysis: Big Islanders loyal to the Democrat, despite minor Republican renaissance. The Big Island was the best island for Gov.-elect Josh Green, delivering the largest percentage of its votes and helping propel the former Kona Democrat to the state’s highest office with a solid victory over his Republican opponent, James “Duke” Aiona. West Hawaii Today.

As he prepares for inauguration, Green heads to Japan in bid to promote Hawaii tourism. Gov.-elect Josh Green is headed to Japan to meet with government officials and travel industry executives in hopes of promoting Hawaii’s tourism industry. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Lawmakers Honored Federal Lobbyist Despite Her Conviction In A Foreign Lobbying Scandal. The legislative action for Nickie Lum Davis recently surfaced in sentencing documents. It illustrates the sometimes loose practice around honorary certificates. Civil Beat.

National $22.5M grant to help Hawaiʻi researchers study health disparities. Researchers from the University of Hawaiʻi and the John A. Burns School of Medicine hope to make an impact by studying health disparities impacting Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders and other ethnic groups. Hawaii Public Radio.

Permits Now Required For Lay Net Use In Hawaiʻi. The Hawaiʻi land board voted to eliminate the requirement that lay net fishers register each lay net with the department, and require one permit to use lay nets in general. Big Island Video News.

Scientists still unlocking mysteries of Hawaii’s humpback whales. Humpback whales, the winter stars of Hawaii’s marine environment, have been arriving and leaving island waters earlier than normal in recent years, according to a trend documented by scientists. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Concerns about flexibility helped sink affordable housing amendment. The failed amendment would have raised the amount of real property tax directed to the Affordable Housing Fund from 0.5% to 1%, or from about $8 million to $16 million. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council elections retain political leanings. The incoming Honolulu City Council had the potential to take a hard right turn in this year’s election but instead will retain its political balance when three new Councilmembers are sworn in Jan. 3. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council To Take Up Restricting Guns In ‘Sensitive Places’. The City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting Nov. 29 to hear a bill that would restrict weapons from being carried in schools and other public places. Civil Beat.

Oahu problem properties owe $130 million in building fines to city. The city is owed over $130 million for building violations involving Oahu properties with outstanding fines over $100,000, according to Department of Planning and Permitting data. Star-Advertiser.

Plans move forward for $100M renovation of ‘antiquated’ Honolulu Hale. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is proposing relocating city government to a high rise to make room for a $100 million renovation of Honolulu Hale. Hawaii News Now.

New Aloha Stadium plan proponents put hopes in Gov.-elect Green. Leaders of surrounding communities and state officials, including Stadium Authority board members, say they are optimistic that Gov.-elect Josh Green will allow resumption of work on requests for proposals for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District when he takes office in December. Star-Advertiser.

Felons violating probation threaten Hawaii’s public safety. Public safety in Honolulu is being threatened by convicted felons violating probation without any penalties because a program designed to keep high-risk probationers from committing new crimes by imposing immediate sanctions isn’t being run right, Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm said. Star-Advertiser.

Koko Crater Stables: Gunfight At The Not-So-OK Corral. After a four-year contest between battling horsewomen, the city has awarded the contract for the Koko Crater Stables to a new bidder. Civil Beat.

Concerns Over Leadership At St. Louis School Prompt Resignations, Investigation. Board members said they’ve taken steps to improve the situation, but not before a slew of departures.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

County bills would reduce requirements for director positions. Hawaii County’s hiring criteria for directors of the departments of Public Works and Environmental Management could be loosened by a pair of bills to be discussed at County Council committee meetings this week. Tribune-Herald.

State officials, Hawaiian activists voice concern over Army’s Pohakuloa training site. The Army is hoping to maintain the Pohakuloa Training Area as its 65-year lease on a parcel of state land that makes up a key part of the range nears expiration. Star-Advertiser.

County hires security for Waipi‘o Valley Lookout. Citing concerns about rockfalls, Roth closed Waipi‘o Valley Road by emergency proclamation on Feb. 25 to all but a handful of people, including valley residents and farmers. Tribune-Herald.

820 seek lava buyouts: Final application phase for county’s Kilauea disaster recovery program closes. More than 800 victims of the 2018 Kilauea eruption are hoping Hawaii County will buy their properties after the final application phase for the Voluntary Housing Buyout Program ended last month. Tribune-Herald.

Laupahoehoe ramp restoration a county priority. The ramp is the only point for boats to access the ocean between Hilo and Kawaihae, and was closed by Hawaii County in 2009 because of extensive wear from the surf. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

In open council races, candidates overcame criticism of campaign donations. Some of this year’s top fundraising candidates will take council seats. Nohe U’u-Hodgins and Tom Cook, the two candidates who won the Maui County Council’s only open seats, survived criticism over their large amount of campaign donations and challenges by progressive candidates who banded together to campaign. Maui News.

Kulahaven Farms, rainbow trout aquaponics farm to close at year’s end. Kulahaven Farms LLC, Hawaiʻi’s first, and only, rainbow trout aquaponics farm will be closing operations by the end of this year, the business announced. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Experts: Watch out for the whales with season underway. Last migration season saw record entanglements. As Maui heads into whale season, researchers and conservationists will be on the lookout for whales in distress after a record season of responding to entanglements. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua’i police celebrate its five forensic nurses. Kaua‘i police held a special ceremony Thursday to celebrate the department’s five forensic nurses during Forensic Nurses Week. Kauai Now. Garden Island.

Additional lane closures scheduled as Kapa‘a roundabout construction continues. Additional lane closures and detours are scheduled this week in Kapa‘a as construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Mailihuna Road, Hau‘a‘ala Road and Kawaihau Road continues. Kauai Now.

Hawaii voters choosing governor, other officials today, military wrapping up big training exercise, food stamp officer overwhelmed, Willie Nelson coming to Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Over 400 volunteers across Hawaiʻi continue processing ballots into Election Day. The state has received more than 285,000 ballots as of Monday morning. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voting on Election Day: Where to go and what to expect. The vast majority of Hawaii voters chose to cast their ballots by mail during the 2022 primary election in August. The latest numbers from the state show that trend continuing in Tuesday’s general election. Hawaii News Now.

Top seats up for grabs in Hawaii general election as vote ends. Hawaii voters will have their last chance today to decide who they want to represent them in Congress along with offices including the next governor, legislative and council seats, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and mayors of Maui and Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Despite ease of mail-in voting and several hot races, Hawaii sees sluggish turnout for general election. Despite a governor’s race and a contentious mayoral contest on Maui, voter turnout in Hawaii’s general election appears to be sluggish ― and could be at or below 2018 levels. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is one of the top states people are leaving. The number one state people are leaving is California according to the study. Following California is New York, Illinois, Massachusetts and coming in eighth is Hawaii. KHON2.

With low voter turnout, Hawaii gubernatorial candidates fight to get more votes. It's the day before the general election and so far there's been low voter turnout. But both candidates for governor -- Josh Green and Duke Aiona -- believe that'll work in their favor. KITV4.

Hawaii unemployment fund on pace to more than double this year. The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations said on Monday that the fund for paying unemployment benefits grew to $232 million as of Friday, up from about $119 million at the end of last year. Star-Advertiser.

Overwhelmed human service workers fall behind in processing food stamp benefits. Department of Human Services spokesman Amanda Stevens cited inflated caseloads and new requirements as increasing the department workload. Hawaii News Now.

Army sees its future in Pacific training grounds. In Hawaii, 6,350 soldiers have been training since late October. In addition to Poha­kuloa, troops in the islands also have been at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai and at Bellows Air Force Station, Dillingham Army Airfield, the Kahuku Training Area, Kawailoa mountain ranges, Helemano Plantation and Schofield Barracks’ East and South ranges on Oahu for the Hawaii portion of JPMRC 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Here's how Furlough Fridays changed the Board of Education from elected to appointed. Since 1959, Hawaiʻi's education board has flipped between an elected board, and an appointed one. Today, the state Board of Education is an appointed position. The governor nominates 11 individuals, nine of which have voting powers, to be confirmed by the state Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Telcom sets goal to cut emissions by 40% by 2030.  Hawaiian Telcom has announced a goal of cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in less than 8 years. The telecommunications company said it will create a climate action plan based on this new 2030 target. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui Now. Kauai Now.

Oahu

Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission reestablished with unanimous support. The Oʻahu Historic Preservation Commission will finally become active 30 years after it became law. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘There is no playbook’: As next phase of Red Hill defueling begins, focus is on safety. Now that the so-called “unpacking” of the Red Hill pipelines is finished, the Navy is turning its attention to repairs of the Red Hill fuel tanks ― a key phase required before emptying the tanks. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu's CORE program rolling along after a year. It's been a year since the city started its Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement Program -- also known as CORE. KITV4.

A Local Nursery Wants To Make A Native Tree Hawaii’s Choice For Christmas. Hawaii imports an average of 250,000 Christmas trees from the mainland. Many say that’s a waste. As Hawaii begins receiving its annual influx of Christmas trees from the mainland, a plant nursery on Oahu is selling a locally grown, native alternative to celebrate the holidays. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Today’s the day! Drop off your ballot or vote in person until 7 p.m. It’s Election Day! For those still mulling over their candidate choices, today is the last day to get your ballot to the polls. West Hawaii Today.

Large-scale training exercise winds down at PTA. Thousands of military personnel are stationed at Pohakuloa Training Area for a “first of its kind” training exercise. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo doctor prevails in high court decision regarding reimbursements. After seven years of ongoing litigation involving Hilo-based physician Frederick Nitta, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled 5-0 in his favor on Friday in a decision that could impact other Big Island doctors hoping to secure Medicaid reimbursement payments. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui sets up shoreline retreat fund. A new fund to help Maui homeowners manage coastal erosion and address climate change has been approved by the Maui County Council. A bill to create the Maui Managed Retreat Revolving Fund passed the council on Friday in a sweeping vote. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lanai Draws Tenants In Lottery For First Affordable Housing Project In 30 Years. The housing development funded by tech magnate Larry Ellison will almost double the number of affordable housing units on the island. Civil Beat.

Willie Nelson & Family in pre-holiday concert on Maui, Dec. 23. The holidays on Maui will be highlighted this year with a special Willie Nelson & Family concert Friday, Dec. 23 outside under the stars in the MACC’s A&B Amphitheater and Yokouchi Pavilion. Maui Now.

Kauai

Last chance to vote! The deadline is 7 p.m. Activity in and around the voter center located in the historic County Building was brisk on Monday, the day before the General Election. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i council increases disclosure requirements for contractors. Mayor Derek Kawakami said Monday he planned to sign a bill that would increase disclosure requirements for contractors operating in the county. Garden Island.

Brisk business at Lihu‘e Airport in October. Passenger counts at Lihu‘e Airport soared past 70,000 last month, in turn setting a new high for the month of October. Garden Island.

Recounts triggered in some races, GOP participation rises, DOT workers arrested at Honolulu airport, VP Kamala Harris vacations on Kauai,more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Nail-biter races in Hawaii primary election trigger recounts. Results from five contests for seats in the state Legis­lature and one for Kauai County Council qualified for the mandatory double- checking by the state Office of Elections because the difference in votes received by competing candidates was fewer than 100 or within 0.25% of votes cast. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

More than 1 in 5 voted Republican in the primary election. The Hawaiʻi Republican Party reports that GOP turnout for this primary gained traction this year. Hawaiʻi Republican Party Chair Lynn Finnegan said Republicans won over 20% of the total vote. Finnegan said this is the highest percentage of total votes since Republican candidate Linda Lingle was elected. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voter turnout in Hawaii’s primary was about 40%. Fewer than half of registered voters in Hawaii turned out to vote, whether by mail, drop box or in person, during Saturday’s primary election, according to data from the state Office of Elections. Star-Advertiser.

More election money may be driving voters away. Candidates for all state and county offices in the 2022 election cycle raised nearly $15 million by the primary, plus took loans of nearly $3.3 million — and spent almost $17 million so far, according to data tracked by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission. KHON2.

Hawaii auto sales skidded during first half of year. Statewide registrations for cars fell 18.9% during the first six months while registrations for light trucks, which include vans, SUVs and pickups, decreased 6.4%. Star-Advertiser.

2021 edition of state data book released. The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released the 2021 edition of the “State of Hawai‘i Data Book,” described as the single most comprehensive compilation of statistical information about Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Theft And Fraud Investigations Shake Up Honolulu Airport. Several Hawaii Department of Transportation employees have been arrested and some have left their jobs in the last 16 months as the Attorney General’s office investigates theft and procurement fraud at the Daniel K. Inouye Airport.  Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki residents urge city to fill beach pavilion to increase safety. The city said it is in talks to fill Kuhio Beach Pavilion No. 4 within the next couple of months with a goal of enlivening the space as a tool to increase safety and enjoyment in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu federal housing waitlist opens for low-income applicants. Beginning Monday, Aug. 22, qualified applicants can only apply through an online portal; no applications will be available at the Housing Authority office. The first 1,000 applicants will be accepted.  KITV4.

The Miske Case Has Become One Of The Most Complex Prosecutions In The Country. Defense attorneys are preparing a major attack against a prosecution case that has amassed more than 2 million documents. Civil Beat.

Free bus fare week to alleviate back-to-school jam. Starting today until Aug. 26, residents can get free HOLO cards to ride TheBus free from Monday to Aug. 26, when many universities, community colleges and private schools resume. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

In reversal, state says military training at Big Island range not compatible with conservation land. The Army wants to retain up to 23,000 acres of state land at the Pohakuloa Training Area for continued training and asked for comments on a draft environment impact statement. Hawaii News Now.

Utility seeks extension of water rights. Despite opposition from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Hawaiian Electric has an opportunity to extend its rights to keep generating power on Wailuku River. Tribune-Herald.

Stephen Pause Named Hawaiʻi County Public Works Director. Stephen Pause has been serving as the Acting Director for DPW over the past two months, following the departure of previous director Ikaika Rodenhurst. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Trying to spark interest: Cost of Government Commission finding departmental feedback a challenge. With just three months before they’re required by the county charter to present a report to the County Council and mayor, some members of the Cost of Government Commission reported Thursday they’re having a hard time drumming up interest from some county departments and boards and commissions. West Hawaii Today.

2022: A deadly year on Big Island roads, so far. As of Monday, there were 25 official traffic fatalities for the year, one fewer than for last year’s 26. And if fatalities on the Big Island’s roads continue at their current rate, there would be 40 for the year, two more than the 38 traffic deaths recorded in 2012, the deadliest year in recent memory. Tribune-Herald.

Mysterious wildcat sighting reported in Hawaii. A report of a large wildcat has some Hawaii Island residents on edge. What appears to be something the size of a large dog was reported by a Big Island man on the rural slopes of Hualalai above Kailua-Kona. KHON2.

Maui

Officials to change protocols after long lines, headaches at Maui’s only voter service center. Voters received their ballots by mail three weeks ago — and Maui election officials admit they were not ready for the crowd. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Overnight vote counts bring surprises on day after primary election. The last batch of ballots brought in late Saturday night made a big difference in some state and county races, with candidates who appeared poised for defeat leapfrogging back into contention. Maui News.

Surfrider Foundation records high bacteria levels at Kahului, Haneoʻo, Maliko, Baby Beach. This is the second month in a row that Kahului Harbor had high levels of Enterococcus bacteria, with results showing a count of 2400 MPN/100mL. It was the third month in a row for high levels at Haneoʻo, which had 454 MPN/100mL, down from the month before when rates were 1152 MPN/100mL. Baby Beach recorded a rate of 175 MPN/100mL, marking the first time this year that the location had high bacteria levels in the monthly report. Maui Now.

Kauai

Vice President Kamala Harris vacations on Kauai in unannounced visit. Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff arrived in Lihue this afternoon for an extended vacation on Kauai. Star-Advertiser. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i seeking grant proposals. The intent of the program is to support projects and activities meeting a distinctive cultural, social or economic need for which adequate federal or state funding cannot be secured. Garden Island. KHON2.

Conference committee proposes record $8.7B state budget, minimum wage hike still undecided, Hawaii transitioning from pandemic emergency, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lawmakers Lay Out A Record-Setting $8.7 Billion State Budget. House and Senate negotiators also gave preliminary approval Wednesday to a $6 billion construction budget that funds new schools on Maui and Oahu. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Friday deadline looms for Hawaii lawmakers to raise minimum wage. Supporters rallied in events across the islands to urge lawmakers to agree on a final version by Friday. If they do not agree on terms, the measure will be killed. The sticking point has been how much the raises will be and how fast they will be implemented. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Lawmakers Reach Agreement On Cash Bail Reform. A measure to let people accused of nonviolent misdemeanors go free without bail will be put to a final vote in the House and Senate next week. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers adopt resolution apologizing for ban on Hawaiian language in schools. The state Legislature has adopted a resolution that apologizes to Native Hawaiians for a law that effectively banned the use of the Hawaiian language in schools. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i Supreme Court Diminishes the Power of Non-Compete Clauses. An employment attorney says the ruling, which follows a national trend, should persuade business owners and employers to review non-compete agreements.  Hawaii Business Magazine.

Mounting speculation about a Kahele run for governor triggers ‘grand chess game’. Freshman Congressman Kai Kahele isn’t talking about it, but there’s growing anticipation that he’ll run for governor ― and he hasn’t denied it. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii transitioning from COVID-19 emergency, but pandemic continues. Gov. David Ige announced Wednesday that the state’s response to COVID-19 is transitioning from an emergency mode to public health management. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawai‘i records 11 new coronavirus-related deaths, 3,370 new infections. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, jumped to 9.1%, up from 7.1% last week. It is the sixth week in a row that DOH has recorded an increase in the positivity rate. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

$96 million federal grant to replace Mokapu Elementary. The state is receiving a $96 million federal grant to help replace Mokapu Elementary School because of “capacity and facility condition deficiencies,” Marine Corps Base Hawaii announced this week. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecutor declines to charge HPD corporal following domestic violence arrest in Kaneohe. Cpl. Roland Masao Kam, 49, was arrested April 17 on suspicion of misdemeanor abuse of a family or household member, second- degree unlawful imprisonment and interference with reporting an emergency or crime, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

HPD Officers Involved In Makaha Crash Want Public-Paid Attorneys. A contested case hearing will be held to determine if two HPD officers accused of causing a serious crash will get a city-funded legal defense. Civil Beat.

One less candidate in the running for the next Honolulu police chief. The next step will be three days of testing, which starts on May 9. The commission expects to pick the next chief by June. KITV4.

Inside The ‘Frantic’ Push To Shorten Rail And Keep Its Federal Funding. Project officials stress that they’re still fully committed to getting rail to Ala Moana, but it’s still not clear financially how that would happen. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Meeting about PTA lease extension draws mostly opponents. The U.S. Army found few supporters at a Monday public discussion about whether part of the Pohakuloa Training Area should remain under Army control. Tribune-Herald.

Thirty Meter Telescope Project Names New Executive Director. Robert P. Kirshner succeeds Edward C. Stone as executive director of TIO, or TMT International Observatory LLC. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Panel pulls requirement for N. Kīhei affordable housing project so it can move ahead. Saying that a much-needed affordable housing project in North Kīhei shouldn’t be held up over county roadway requirements, Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday morning voted to pull the condition, allowing Hale Kaiola to move full-steam ahead. Maui Now. Maui News.

Maui hospital system still reliant on funds from government. Maui Memorial Medical Center and its health care affiliates in Kula and on Lanai continue to struggle financially six years after the state turned over the cash-strapped hospital system to Kaiser Permanente in a bid to save the state tens of millions of dollars annually. Star-Advertiser.

‘We Cannot Afford To Be Careless’: Lahaina Residents Want More Water Oversight. Locals are asking state regulators to do more to protect the supply of water for future generations. Civil Beat.

Kauai

State grants $230M for Kaua‘i capital projects. The state budget that was approved Wednesday by a conference committee made up of representatives from both houses appropriated a historic $230 million for capital improvement projects on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

New Wainiha center design addresses community concerns. Planners unveiled the Wainiha Community Resilience Center’s final design Wednesday, reviewing changes made since preliminaries were presented to the public two years ago. Garden Island.

Hawaii population inches up, younger residents account for most new COVID-19 infections, Honolulu to take over EMS from state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Moana food court pre-COVID ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii population grows but at slower pace, census finds. Hawaii’s population grew by 7% over the past decade, and the state maintained its ranking as the 40th largest among the 50 states, according to the 2020 census, released Monday by the U.S. Census Bureau. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.

Despite opposition, bill that would allow 99-year leases of public lands poised for approval. Despite strong opposition from the Native Hawaiian community, a measure that opens the door to century-long leases of public lands is poised for passage in the state Legislature. The full state House and Senate are set to vote on the proposal Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii tobacco trust fund targeted by lawmakers. Should Hawaii's tobacco settlement money be used to help balance the state budget? Lawmakers will decide on a bill, that would eventually wipe out Hawaii's tobacco trust fund. KITV4.

Push is on to vaccinate younger Hawaii residents, which now make up majority of new COVID-19 cases. On Monday, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said that 70% of all new COVID-19 cases in Hawaii are now made up of residents under age 50. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige wants to step up Hawaii coronavirus vaccine campaign. More vaccine campaigns targeting those who are hesitant, inter-island travel getting easier and making tourism better for locals by reserving areas for residents on the weekends. KHON2.

Green: Possible herd immunity in 8 weeks. Lt. Gov. Josh Green says herd immunity against COVID-19 in Hawaii could be reached in about eight weeks, provided the rate of vaccinations continues at its current pace. Tribune-Herald.

April 26, 2021 COVID-19 Update: The state Department of Health reports that there were 70 additional COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Monday, including 42 on O‘ahu, nine on Maui, three on Hawai‘i Island, 14 on Kaua‘i, and two in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed while out of state. Maui Now.

Oahu

Blangiardi Administration And State Lawmakers Come To Agreement On EMS Transfer. A proposal to transfer the responsibility of Oʻahu's emergency services system from the state to the city is moving forward at the Legislature. Although city offiicals were surprised at first, the Blangiardi administration believes it will improve ambulance services on the island. Hawaii Public Radio.

EPA sues bankrupt Oahu Sugar Co. over pesticide dumping in Waipio. In a federal court lawsuit filed last week, the EPA alleged that Oahu Sugar ― which shut down in 1995 and filed for bankruptcy in 2005 ― operated a pesticide mixing plant on the Waipio penninsula for decades that spilled toxic chemicals into the land. Hawaii News Now.

Bulk of $63,000 from sale of Louis and Katherine Kealoha’s east Honolulu home goes to uncle. The bulk of the money from the foreclosure sale of a house owned by a former Honolulu police chief and his estranged wife convicted of conspiracy must go to the relatives they bilked, a U.S. judge ruled today. Associated Press.

Alleged Crime Boss Says He’s Being Thwarted From Preparing A Defense. Attorneys representing alleged racketeering kingpin Michael John Miske Jr., say their client has been held in solitary confinement in the Federal Detention Center for over 200 days, and has been told this will continue indefinitely, all without a hearing and without apparent concern for his procedural and constitutional rights. Civil Beat.

Families left scrambling after state orders shutdown of Hauula assisted living facility. The State Department of Health announced it’s immediately revoking the license and closing Dignity Senior Living at Oceanside Hawaii, an assisted living facility on Kamehameha Highway. Hawaii News Now.

Online reservations for Hanauma Bay now up and running. An eagerly anticipated online reservation system for timed admission to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is up and running, the office of Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi and the city Department of Parks and Recreation and Design and Construction announced Monday, the day the system launched. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Kailua Beach Park boat ramp repairs set to begin. Repairs to the boat ramp at Kailua Beach Park were scheduled to begin today and will take about two weeks to finish, depending on weather and ocean conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

HMC ending mass vaccination PODs. Hilo Medical Center is winding down its mass vaccination efforts as demand for COVID-19 vaccines begins to wane. Tribune-Herald.

Changing of the guard: New PTA commander to oversee lease retention. When Lt. Col. Kevin Cronin takes over as garrison commander of Pohakuloa Training Area in June, his tenure will include overseeing an environmental impact statement and negotiations for the Army to retain its lease of nearly 23,000 acres of state land in the saddle between Maunakea and Mauna Loa. West Hawaii Today.

Officers crack down at Kehena beach. Law enforcement agencies have issued more than 100 citations to people at Kehena Black Sand Beach since the beginning of April, but some nearby residents are unsure whether it will solve longstanding problems in the area. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

North Kona Sewer Pump Station project moving forward. The Hawaii County Department of Environmental Management is moving forward with plans to construct a sewer pump station that’ll provide county sewer service to properties north of the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant in North Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

'It's not what we need right now': plan for dozens of luxury condos in South Maui spurs backlash. The price tag for each of the 57 units is expected to reach $3.6 million. KITV4.

New problems arise at popular West Maui beach park closed to protect iwi kupuna. A popular beach park in West Maui has been closed indefinitely because of erosion and to protect exposed Hawaiian burials. However, since the park’s closure in January, residents say homeless people have moved in — causing a new set of problems. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Is No Longer Safe For Hawaii’s Endangered Birds, Biologists Say. New refuges are sought as scientists battle disease-carrying mosquitoes in the face of a changing climate. Civil Beat.

Funds sought to repair Kwock Hing Society Temple. Historical temple hosts important Chinese cultural celebrations. A 114-year-old Keokea temple that’s hosted Chinese cultural celebrations for generations is in dire need of repair. Maui News.

Kauai

State has $223M for Kaua‘i projects. A total of over $223 million in capital-improvement-project funds have been allocated to Kaua‘i in the final version of the state budget that passed out of the Senate and House conference committee on April 19. Garden Island.

Vehicle registration offered at Princeville Foodland. County officials, in partnership with Foodland and Intellectual Technology Inc., recently launched the island’s fourth self-service kiosk for motor-vehicle registrations, at Foodland in Princeville. Garden Island.

Hawaii important to China military missions, Green seeks to lower age for vaccinations, bankruptcies plunge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Troop transport at Pohakuloa Training Area ©2021 All Hawaii News

 
 Hawaii is used to train island-hopping military. Hawaii isn’t an island chain in the Western or South Pacific, but it is being used to replicate one for multiservice military training as the Army and Marines prepare to become a 21st-century island-hopping force to counter China. Star-Advertiser.

‘Golf ball’ radar helps plug gap in Pacific. The giant Sea-Based X-Band Radar has come and gone from Hawaii again as it embarks on another lengthy defense-of-the-homeland and missile defense testing mission. Star-Advertiser.

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Lt. Gov. wants to push up vaccination of 65 and older as COVID-19 variants spread across mainland. Green says the state could potentially see a surge in cases among younger people who party or gather and that he worries they could bring the highly transmissible strain into their home and spread it to parents or kupuna. KHON2.

Other States Have Opened Vaccinations To Those As Young As 65. Why Not Hawaii?. Some argue the state should prioritize the most vulnerable before vaccinating a long list of essential workers. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii House Panel Strikes Down DHHL Casino Proposal. A companion measure is still alive in the Senate, though the gambling bills face opposition from some legislative leaders and the governor. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.

Bills aim to save Hawaii’s beaches. Hawaii lawmakers are considering bills this legislative session that could force oceanfront property owners to remove sandbags and draped heavy tarps that can significantly contribute to coastal erosion. Star-Advertiser.

Wage hike bills draw concern. The minimum wage in Hawaii could rise as high as $17 an hour under several new bills in the state Legislature, which has some businesses worried about their future. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers consider moratorium on commercial business evictions. Commercial landlords would be prohibited from evicting tenants under a bill Hawaii lawmakers took up last week to try to assist businesses reeling from the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers Advance New Tax On Alcoholic Drinks. The new state tax of 10 cents a drink would be in effect for the next three years, and raise about $62 million a year. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

House’s proposal ends contested case land use hearings, sending them directly to court. In a supposed effort to streamline the state’s contested case hearing process, a controversial new bill in the state Legislature would end those hearings over land use issues entirely. Tribune-Herald.

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State bankruptcies plunged nearly 25% in January. The number of cases in January plunged 24.8% on the strength of financial aid as well as signs that the vaccine rollout is providing hope that Hawaii’s economy can recover in the second half of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Data shows some Hawaii public school students struggling amid coronavirus. Elementary school students are having trouble keeping up with coursework during the pandemic, with 21% “well below” proficiency in English and 15% falling short in math in the first semester, new public school data shows. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii to receive $2 million in opioid epidemic settlement. The state is set to receive nearly $2 million as part of its share in a multistate opioid epidemic settlement.  KHON2.

Micronesians Wait Their Turn As Other Pacific Islanders Head Home. Hundreds of people from Pacific islands and territories have been stranded abroad for months after their homelands closed borders early in the pandemic. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 7: 75 New COVID-19 Infections And Two Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 75 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday including 51 on Oahu, 15 on Maui, seven on the Big Island and two residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Commission questions disparities in use of force. The disproportionate involvement of Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders and Blacks in police arrests and “use of force” incidents caught the attention of Hono­lulu Police Commission members in their ongoing re-examination of Honolulu Police Department policies — an effort that sprung from recent police shootings on the mainland and calls for law enforcement reforms nationwide. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline for public input on new Aloha Stadium Entertainment District is Feb. 8. State officials released a drafted environmental impact statement detailing the project’s impacts on the surrounding environment on Dec. 23 and encouraged Hawaii residents to comment on the proposal. KHON2.

COVID-19 created a new problem for recently released inmates, prison reform advocates say. United Self-Help’s executive director said more and more of these maxed-out prisoners are being turned away from the shelters, forcing them to live on the streets. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Feds Fine Hilo Veterans Home $500,000 Over Deadly COVID-19 Outbreak. State health officials said it was the largest fine they could recall for a longterm care facility. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

‘Funky,’ ‘goofy’ and postponed: Waikoloa project withdrawn. A rezoning and application for a Waikoloa affordable housing project with a past that a planning consultant called “funky” and a councilman called “goofy” were withdrawn Tuesday from the County Council Planning Committee for a redo. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hosts liable for underage drinking. Maui County Council unanimously approved a bill that will make the host of a Maui gathering at home or another private residence liable for illegal underage drinking. Maui News.

Mahi Pono farmers pivot amid pandemic. New crops go to market; 3,500 acres of plantings slated this year. Maui News.

New Maui Commission on Healing Solutions for Homelessness Accepting Applications. The Government Relations, Ethics and Transparency Committee is seeking applications for the new Commission on Healing Solutions for Homelessness, Chair Mike Molina announced today. Maui Now.

Kauai

Public hearing on property-tax exemptions slated for today. The County of Kaua‘i Department of Finance will hold a public hearing today on proposed amendments to rules and regulations relating to real-property-tax home and related exemptions. Garden Island.

Survey: Princeville residents overwhelmingly dislike ‘glamping’ plan. A stunning 94% of Princeville residents and property owners believe that preserving open space in Hawai‘i’s first planned community is critical as it ponders its options in resisting a proposed luxury-camping resort. Garden Island.

40% of KCC students are food-insecure. Some 40% of Kaua‘i Community College students reported they are food-insecure, Chancellor Joe Daisy said last week. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court rules state breached trust at Pohakuloa Training Area, hemp has too much THC, overtourism on Maui, more than 3k commute by plane, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Live fire training at Pohakuloa ©2019 All Hawaii News

Supreme Court: State Failed Trust Duties In Pohakuloa. The Hawaii Supreme Court ordered the state to come up with a plan to better manage the land. Civil Beat.

High court rules state breached trust duties at Pohakuloa Training Area. In a 5-0 vote, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Friday the state hasn’t properly managed ceded lands at Pohakuloa leased to the Army for military training. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Supreme Court Rules State Breached Trust On Pohakuloa Lease. The court affirmed that the State "breached its constitutional trust duties by failing to reasonably monitor or inspect" the lands leased to the U.S. military. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Supreme Court modifies requirements for Pohakuloa land. A state Circuit Court judge correctly ruled that the Department of Land and Natural Resources breached its trust duties to care for ceded lands at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island used by the military, the Hawaii Supreme Court determined Friday. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii hemp growers are having to destroy their plants because of high THC levels. More than half of the hemp crops cultivated in Hawaii over the past year as part of the state’s industrial hemp pilot program have tested hot, meaning their levels of THC, the chemical that makes people high, were above the federal limit for hemp. Star-Advertiser.

Report: Nearly 3,000 Hawaii Residents Fly To Work. Hawaiian Airlines outlines its economic impact across the state in its 90th annual report. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines Generated $9.3B in Economic Benefits. Hawaiian Airlines generated the equivalent of $9.3 billion in economic benefit for the state of Hawaii and supported more than 60,000 jobs in 2018, according to an independent report conducted in recognition of the airline’s 90th year of service to the state and its people. Big Island Now.

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Judge tosses TMT lawsuit. A Hilo judge on Friday dismissed a lawsuit against the Thirty Meter Telescope that sought an injunction to block its construction because the project did not post a security bond. Tribune-Herald.

Kupuna protesters plead not guilty. About 200 people showed up Friday in Hilo to support nine people facing their initial court date for charges of obstructing Maunakea Access Road on July 17 to prevent construction vehicles and workers from scaling Maunakea to build the Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

TMT, Opposition React To Mayor Kim’s Mauna Kea Meetings. Neither Thirty Meter Telescope representatives, or leadership in the TMT opposition movement, were invited to the mayor's second meeting, they say. Big Island Video News.

Despite years of legal battles and months of protests by Native Hawaiian opponents, the international coalition that wants to build the world’s largest telescope in Hawaii insists that the islands’ highest peak — Mauna Kea — is the best place for their $1.4 billion instrument. But just barely. Associated Press.

Anti-TMT protests affecting Big Island tourism industry. A convention of bird- watchers has canceled a planned meeting on Hawaii island because of uncertainty surrounding protests over building the $1.4 billion Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Short-term vacation rental rift creates a house divided. A fierce battle is brewing at Waikiki Lanais, where the Association of Apartment Owners just voted to add a hotel front desk to the property and spend at least $40,000 to hire an attorney to defend the right of some owners to continue renting their units short-term. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Officials Say Ala Wai Project Money In Jeopardy. While the City Council was warned the nearly $200 million could be lost to flood-control efforts elsewhere, there is actually a surplus of federal money for such projects. Civil Beat.

Councilwoman Tsuneyoshi To Biki: Pay Up For Public Space. The nonprofit Bikeshare Hawaii has gotten no-cost access to city parking spots and sidewalk space since 2017 to rent out 1,300 Biki bikes in downtown Honolulu, but their free ride could end soon. Civil Beat.

Work on Honolulu’s $3.2B airport modernization project hits the halfway mark. Spending on the $3.2 billion modernization effort underway across Hawaii’s airport system is at the halfway point, and most of the big-ticket capital improvement projects are slated to wrap up by December 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Kailua farmers market forced to relocate after DOE complaints. After more than six years, the Kailua Town Farmers Market has to find a new home. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki Medical Marijuana Dispensary To Cater To Tourists. The latest medical cannabis retail facility is located in Waikiki and passed its final onsite inspection this month. Civil Beat.

EPA to remove extremely high levels of lead buried under deteriorating Kalihi road. The asphalt on Factory Street covers up extremely high levels of lead — buried by the government decades ago. Health officials rediscovered the forgotten site in 2017, warning inaction would put families in danger. Hawaii News Now.

Tens of thousands of university students heading back to classes -- and the roadways. An estimated 20,000 students will converge on U.H.-Manoa. Some of them started moving into dormitories over the past few days, but many more will be commuting from around the island. Hawaii News Now.

Florence Puana, Katherine Kealoha’s grandmother, turns 100. Puana, who turned 100 on Saturday, is the grandmother of former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha. She provided key testimony in Kealoha’s federal conspiracy and obstruction trial. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

HVO settles in: Site selection, facility design could take years. The signing by President Donald Trump in June of a long-delayed disaster relief bill means Hawaiian Volcano Observatory can go about the business of finding a new site. Tribune-Herald.

New Kona prosecutor’s office delayed. The new Office of the Prosecuting Attorney at the West Hawaii Civic Center is months behind schedule. When work got underway on the $14 million project in May 2018, officials anticipated Isemoto Contracting Co. Ltd. would have the project completed April 8, 2019. West Hawaii Today.

Coastal management meetings planned. Big Island residents will have the chance this week to weigh in on an ocean resources management plan, as statewide “sharing sessions” wrap up with meetings in Kona and Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo bike-share program gets rolling. Three years after Peoples Advocacy for Trails Hawaii, or PATH, launched a bike-share program in Kona, the program expanded to Hilo earlier this month. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

As impacts mount, some wonder whether ‘managed tourism’ is possible on Maui. The rise of social media, travel apps and vacation rental hosting sites has made it more difficult for tourists and residents to find secluded experiences on any island, especially Maui, where tourism arrivals rose from 1.8 million in 2009 to 2.9 million in 2018, a 54% gain that was the largest increase on any island. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County urged to settle closely-watched environmental case. In one of the most closely-watched environmental cases in the country, Maui County is preparing to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court this November that its wastewater wells in Lahaina are not harming the coastline. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Home Lands Proposes Housing Project In Central Maui. An area near Waikapu, which has been eyed for housing for more than a decade, is poised to be developed as a Hawaiian homestead project. Maui News.

MCCC Struggles Over ʻExtreme’ Staff Shortage. Over the past two weeks, staffing shortages at the Maui Community Correctional Center prompted cancellations of weekend visits for inmates. Maui Now.

Maui County hotels top state’s counties in July. Maui County hotels in July led the state’s three other counties in revenue per available room, average daily rate and occupancy, according to a recent hotel report. Maui News.

Kauai

Kamalani Playground closing for upgrades. The county Department of Parks and Recreation announced that Kamalani Playground at Lydgate Park will be closed starting Monday for the installation of safety upgrades. Garden Island.

Caldwell: Feds won't pull rail funding, plus University of Hawaii tuition freeze, Zuckerberg lawsuit continues, Aila as DHHL chairman, state Supreme Court hears Pohakuloa Training Area case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Crews working on Waiawa rail station PC: HART

Honolulu Mayor Confident Feds Won't Pull Rail Funding. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the city's $9.2 billion rail project isn't in danger of losing federal funds, so long as it builds all 20 miles of the planned transit line. Hawaii Public Radio.

No Link Between Honolulu, California Rail Troubles, Local Leaders Say. Federal officials just cut nearly $1 billion for California’s ambitious high-speed rail project, but local leaders say Honolulu is better poised to secure its remaining cash. Civil Beat.

Contractor must improve fireproofing of rail cars. The company building train cars for the Honolulu rail line must retrofit 24 cars that have already arrived in Hawaii to make them more fire resistant, according to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

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University of Hawaii to collect oral histories of Barack Obama’s early years in Hawaii. The University of Hawaii announced today that it is collecting oral histories of President Barack Obama’s early contacts in Hawaii for the Obama Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii Tuition freeze gets nod. The University of Hawaii has approved a three-year freeze of undergraduate tuition rates at all 10 campuses and a reduction of graduate tuition at UH Manoa, starting in the fall of 2020. Star-Advertiser.

UH Board of Regents approves tuition freezes, cuts. In a bid to reverse enrollment declines, the University of Hawaii will freeze tuition for undergraduates for three years and cut graduate tuition rates. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige has appointed William Aila as chairman of the Hawaiian Homes Commission and director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, effective Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Iolani Palace names KITV anchor Paula Akana its executive director. The board of directors for Friends of Iolani Palace chose her to succeed Kippen de Alba Chu, who left the position in January after 12 years. Star-Advertiser.

In time for Tokyo Olympics, Hawaiian Airlines wins another Haneda flight slot. Hawaiian Airlines has been tentatively awarded a new flight slot at Tokyo Haneda airport. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

3 warships, 4,500 sailors and Marines visit Pearl Harbor during deployment. Three San Diego-based Navy warships and about 4,500 sailors and Marines stopped in Pearl Harbor for training and replenishment at the start of a deployment to the Indo-Pacific and Middle East. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Liquor Commission votes to revoke controversial store's license. Maunakea Liquor & Grocery in Chinatown is on the verge of losing its liquor license. KITV.

Thousands of Local 5 members will rally at the world’s largest Hilton Friday. UNITE HERE Local 5 members who work at Hilton Hawaiian Village will rally at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Side on Paoa Place near Tropics Friday. KITV.

Safety concerns arise regarding other crosswalks in Pearl City. The crosswalk where 17-year-old Victoria Arellano was hit, isn't the only one in Pearl City residents are worried about. There are concerns about others on Waimano Home Road. KHON2.

Next month Biki turns two, and operator Bikeshare Hawaii says they have found a “sweet spot” by anticipating rider demand and opening docking space at key locations during crucial times of the day. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Supreme Court to determine whether state did its job to oversee Pohakuloa Training Area. The Hawaii Supreme Court heard oral arguments today in a case in which the state is being accused of not doing enough to ensure the U.S. Army isn’t trashing the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island under the terms of its 65-year lease with the state. Star-Advertiser.

State’s highest court hears challenge to live-fire training on Big Island ceded lands. In a case that echoes the battle to stop bombing of Kahoolawe, the state Supreme Court heard arguments Thursday over the Army’s live-fire training at the Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

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To raise or not to raise? Salary Commission punts until next month. With union-negotiated raises for county rank-and-file workers averaging 2% to 3% annually, the county Salary Commission is grappling once again with whether to raise salaries for the top 40 county officials during a tight budget year. West Hawaii Today.

Two retired Hawaii Police Department officers indicted Monday on criminal charges by a Kona grand jury appeared in Hilo Circuit Court Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Even as the University of Hawaii is moving forward with administrative rules to govern public and commercial activities on UH-managed lands on Mauna Kea, the president of the university is contemplating some changes to the Mauna Kea management structure. Big Island Video News.

Scientists consider raising Mauna Loa alert level. Mauna Loa was at an “advisory” level from September 2015 to June 2018 due to increased seismic activity. Since then, it has remained at “normal,” which suggests a background state. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Bill would restrict use of plastic foodware. Vendors point to high cost of compostable alternatives. Maui News.

The three Rotary clubs of Lahaina recently installed 33 yellow rescue tubes at nine West Maui county beach parks. The rescue tubes are to provide assistance to swimmers in distress. Maui News.

Kauai
Zuckerberg lawsuit moves on. A Fifth Circuit judge on Thursday said he intends to allow attorneys to move forward with a lawsuit contesting the sale of several land parcels on Mark Zuckerberg’s North Shore estate, although that may change if the land changes hands next month. Garden Island.

County agency food drive falls short. Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami was obviously disappointed and frustrated Wednesday morning while watching the collection of food come together at the Moikeha Building. Garden Island.