Showing posts with label Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Show all posts

Friday, January 17, 2020

How to pay for teacher raises? Plus, Honolulu paid indicted police chief $250k to leave and now it's suing for its money back. Lots more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Hawaii Department of Education
Hawaii classroom PC:Hawaii Department of Education
DOE Faces More Tough Questions Over How It Will Pay For Teacher Raises. Education officials began providing $10 million in incentives for special ed and rural teachers without a guarantee the Hawaii Legislature will fund the pay increases in the future. Civil Beat.

Veteran public school teachers could get a big one-time salary increase. Public school teachers with more than 10 years of experience could get a one-time salary boost in the coming school year — if the state comes up with the money. Hawaii News Now.

=====

A new measure introduced in the Hawaii State House of Representatives could put an end to HI-5 recycling. Rep. Roy Takumi, who introduced the measure, created it after hearing from older constituents about the difficulties of transporting recyclables. KHON2.

Visitor drownings are up, bill aims to aid prevention. A new proposal is hoping to save lives by requiring stricter regulations and more training for crews on tour boats. KHON2.

New Prison Oversight Commission Has A Full Plate. Off to a slow start, the new commissioners say they want to take a wide-ranging look at the entire criminal justice system. Civil Beat.

Now that the conflict at Mauna Kea is in a temporary truce, Native Hawaiians are turning their attention to politics. Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope say they want more Hawaiians voting and in office. Hawaii News Now.

As climate change takes hold, the tropics will get warmer faster. Global warming is often thought of as, well, a global phenomenon. But the world is actually warming at different rates ― and new research from a University of Hawaii professor is helping shed light on why. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City sues former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha for severance pay. City attorneys this week filed a lawsuit against former Police Chief Louis Kealoha seeking return of $250,000 in taxpayer money that he received as a severance payment when he retired from the Honolulu Police Department in March 2017. Star-Advertiser.

City sues disgraced ex-police chief in bid to recoup $250,000 payout. In January 2017, taxpayers paid the $250,000 for him to retire while under investigation by the FBI for public corruption. Hawaii News Now.

=====

127 Homeless People Died On Oahu Last Year, Up From 2018. The figure is also a 46% increase from just two years ago. Civil Beat.

Deaths of homeless people continue to climb on Oahu. Some 127 homeless people on Oahu died last year, seven more than in 2018, the city announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Oʻahu Homeless Deaths Increasing, Up 46% In Two Years. Honolulu's acting chief medical examiner says 127 people considered homeless died on Oʻahu in 2019, up from two years ago. Hawaii Public Radio.

City: Those who died on Oahu streets last year ranged in age from 19 to 88. Some 127 homeless people died on Oahu streets last year, according to a new analysis from the city Medical Examiner. Hawaii News Now.

=====

In face of opposition, BOE shelves plans to move Kaahumanu Elementary. The state Board of Education Thursday rejected a proposal to move the school from Kinau Street to new facilities that would be built on the 46-acre campus of nearby McKinley High School. Hawaii News Now.

Board of Education nixes moving Ka‘ahumanu School, advances Kaimuki High redevelopment plan. A proposal to redevelop Kaimuki High School’s campus is advancing, but the Board of Education on Thursday torpedoed the idea of moving Queen Ka‘ahumanu School to free up that campus for development. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Rediscovery of WWII bomber off Oahu raises hopes for recovery of remains. Crystal clear video shows new images of a World War II aircraft sitting on the ocean floor about three miles off Oahu’s Kaneohe coast. Hawaii News Now.

Society of Professional Journalists in Hawaii looking for summer interns. Selected applicants will be placed in a print, online or broadcast media organization in Honolulu, where they will work full-time for 10 weeks during the summer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


County fast-track land buy raises questions. A fast-tracked bill to buy land owned by a distant relative of Puna Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz is raising questions after her relationship was disclosed when the County Council was asked to approve a $1.45 million appropriation for the purchase and construction of a bus depot there. West Hawaii Today.

An over-the-counter medicine may be able to prevent rat lungworm disease. The typical rainy weather in Hilo becomes a hot spot for slugs and snails, a carrier of rat lungworm disease, a parasite that affects the brain and spinal cord in humans. KITV.

After Rat Lungworm Conference, HMC Updates Treatment Protocol. Hilo Medical Center is announcing an update on early treatment protocol for Rat Lungworm following the international conference held in last week. Big Island Video News.

Holei Sea Arch Closed After Cracks Observed. The short trail from the end of Chain of Craters Road to the sea arch overlook is closed and roped off, officials say. Big Island Video News.

Cracks shutter Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s Holei Sea Arch overlook. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park this afternoon announced the closure of the Holei Sea Arch overlook until further notice due to new cracks and instability observed on the coastal cliffs. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui Mayor, Seeking GET Tax Surcharge, Apologizes For Missed Deadline. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is asking the state Legislature to extend a deadline that will allow the county to impose a general excise tax surcharge on business activities such as sales of products. Hawaii Public Radio.

Community Meeting on Wailuku Town Improvements, Jan. 29. Wailuku Town Improvements will be the subject of a community meeting hosted by the County of Maui Department of Management, schedule to take place on Wednesday, Jan. 29, from 5 to 6 p.m. at ʻĪao Theater. Maui Now.

Chick-fil-A coming to Maui. Early plans point to Kahului location. The Chick-fil-A franchise is flocking to the Aloha State, with plans in the works for a future Maui location, its second in Hawaii. Maui News.

Chick-fil-A is Coming to Hawai‘i, Eyes Kahului Location. Chick-fil-A is coming to Hawaiʻi with a potential site at the Puʻunēnē Shopping Center in Kahului on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tax hike proposed for part-time TVRs. A bill that would increase the property taxes of Kauai residents who rent out their homes for part of the year was met with opposition from some Kauai community members on Thursday. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi Recycling Buffeted By Global Market Prices, Solutions Won't Be Easy. Allison Fraley, Kauaʻi County’s solid waste program coordinator, said the island is not alone in dealing with an overseas market where prices are falling and buyers are choosy. Hawaii Public Radio.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Kealoha chapter closes with guilty pleas, City Council says no outside attorneys in rail probe, battles continue across the state over wind, solar and water issues, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Katherine and Louis Kealoha admit guilt. Once one of Oahu’s preeminent power couples, Louis and Katherine Kealoha’s stunning fall from grace continued Tuesday with both pleading guilty to additional federal charges. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Honolulu Police Chief, Estranged Wife Plead Guilty. A retired Honolulu police chief and his wife, a former deputy city prosecutor, pleaded guilty Tuesday to bank fraud in order to avoid other trials against them, capping a federal corruption investigation that brought down the once-respected and powerful couple. Associated Press.

Under deal approved by judge, Kealohas plead guilty to remaining charges. After maintaining her innocence for years, Katherine Kealoha pleaded guilty Tuesday morning to bank fraud, identity theft and covering up knowledge of a drug ring involving her brother ― all felonies ― under a plea deal approved by a federal judge. Hawaii News Now.

Judge accepts, finds Kealohas guilty. The Federal Judge J. Michael Seabright accepted the Kealohas’ guilty plea Tuesday. Prosecutors say the plea agreement that Louis and Katherine Kealoha entered into will bring some vindication for additional victims. KHON2.

Federal prosecutors may be interested in what Katherine Kealoha knows about HART, her attorney says. Attorney Earle Partington had planned to appeal the Kealohas' June conspiracy and obstruction conviction, but with the Kealohas cutting plea deals with the federal government, the focus has changed. KITV.

Is the Prosecutor’s Office doomed to repeat the past? That’s what the Council is worried about. In a tense exchange Tuesday, Honolulu Councilman Ron Menor questioned Honolulu’s acting city prosecutor on why his office hasn’t taken steps to independently confirm how deputy Katherine Kealoha abused her office for years for her personal benefit. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council rejects hiring outside lawyers to help city employees. Lawyers for the city expect the federal criminal investigation of the rail authority will likely result in more subpoenas or other requests for information from other city departments, but members of the Honolulu City Council on Tuesday rejected a request to hire a mainland law firm to help cope with those inquiries. Star-Advertiser.

Criminal Probe Into Rail Might Creep Into Honolulu Hale, Attorneys Fear. After the City Council rejected using taxpayer money to pay for legal representation, city employees would have to seek it out on their own. Civil Beat.

=====

Wind farm battles aren’t new. And our search for green energy means they’re not going away. The opposition might have appeared to come out of nowhere. But in fact, wind farm projects are no stranger to controversy. Hawaii News Now.

Wind farm arrests decline on third night. Three people were arrested Tuesday in Kahuku after refusing to move from the driveway of the wind farm site where trucks were delivering four turbine tower sections. Three protesters were also arrested Monday night in Kalaeloa, bringing the total arrested to 101 since the protest began Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Honolulu Council Committee Considering Charging Transportation Companies for Parking Stalls. The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee amended a bill that would allow companies that rent small vehicles, such as electric scooters to pay to reserve parking spaces. Hawaii Public Radio.

Move proposed Ala Moana playground to Kakaako park, City Council member Kobayashi says. Instead of building a proposed 1-acre children’s playground with a zip line and water feature at Ala Moana Regional Park, the city should build it at Kakaako Waterfront Park near the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center. Star-Advertiser.

Opponents of a new playground slated for Ala Moana Park are trying to convince the city to switch to a different site. They received a boost from a key council committee on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

How To Remove Homeless People From A Park? Close It, Honolulu Says. Opponents of the city proposal say closing parks is not the answer when better enforcement and maintenance is needed. Civil Beat.

City council exploring options for a tiny, problematic park in Downtown Honolulu. Honolulu city council members passed a resolution Monday that explores alternatives for the Kamalii Mini Park in Downtown Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Large scale enforcement effort underway at Kea‘au Beach Park. Combined efforts from numerous city departments, state coordinators, non-government organizations and volunteer community members are currently underway with the goal of cleaning a stretch shoreline along the Leeward Coast north of Kea‘au Beach Park. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Public hearing slated for petition challenging classification of state land on Maunakea summit. The state Land Use Commission will have a public hearing Thursday about a petition by two Hawaiian cultural practitioners concerning the classification of state land on the Maunakea summit. Tribune-Herald.

Search Begins for New UH Astronomy Director. The University of Hawai‘i Institute for Astronomy is in the market for a new director and as of Tuesday, the search has officially begun. Big Island Now.

Water is the holdup for Laiopua. There are many hurdles to completing the master-planned Villages of Laiopua, but topping that list is water. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Conflicts, Antitrust Questions Raised Regarding Maui Solar Farm. Utilities and others are concerned that the same lawyers are representing multiple parties in a competitive bidding process. Civil Beat.

Farmers, Advocates Rally for Restored Streamflow in Na Wai ʻEha. Community organizers picketed outside of the state building earlier this evening to push for full streamflow in Wailuku, Waiʻehu, Waiheʻe, and Waikapu, also known as Na Wai ʻEha, or the four waters. Maui Now.

UPW contract with hospitals is ratified. Terms not disclosed by either union or Maui Health System. Maui News.

=====

Brush fire closes Kapalua Airport on Maui, forces evacuations. The fire department is continuing to fight the fire in West Maui, and are working to protect homes in the Kahana Ridge and Ala Hoku subdivisions. Star-Advertiser.

Brush Fire Closes Maui's Kapalua Airport. Kapalua Airport in Maui was closed and evacuated Tuesday because of a brush fire that damaged power supply lines, causing the airport to lose power. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Two pharmacies on Kauai are being investigated by federal authorities for allegedly distributing drugs without a prescription. Drug Enforcement Administration officials seized records and inventory from Westside Pharmacy in Hanapepe and Kalaheo Pharmacy during inspections on Oct. 9 and 10, according to receipts documenting the execution of a federal inspection warrant. Garden Island.

The business of climate change. On Kauai, the first of five conversations on the topic happened Monday at a meeting at Kauai Community College attended by about 40 people that was part lecture, part brainstorming session, focused on Kauai’s business sector. Garden Island.

Monday, March 25, 2019

Solar farms could take over prime ag land, $4.3M more to house inmates on mainland, boat people of the Ala Wai, pieces of Zuckerberg Kauai estate sold at auction, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Taro fields on Kauai ©2019 All Hawaii News
Bill to put solar farms on prime ag land elicits stiff opposition. Developers would be allowed to put solar farms on prime agricultural land under a measure that has passed key legislative committees but is eliciting strong protest from Gov. David Ige’s cabinet while dividing farmers and environmental groups. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Hawaii officials request $4.3 million for mainland prisoners. Hawaii's government has requested additional funds to house inmates on the mainland while upgrades continue at a state prison. Associated Press.

Cost grows for delayed upgrade at Halawa Correctional Facility. Gov. David Ige’s administration has requested an additional $4.3 million to house Hawaii prison inmates on the mainland while contractors finish a long-­delayed overhaul of the electronic locks and video surveillance systems at Halawa Correctional Facility. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Turns To Private Prison Firm For New Oahu Jail. Hawaii officials are struggling to find the hundreds of millions of dollars in state money needed for a new correctional facility. Civil Beat.

=====

Further Review Of UH Positions Complete, None At Risk Of Being Cut. Senator Donna Mercado Kim has completed a review of more than a hundred positions at the University of Hawaii that were in jeopardy of being dropped. Hawaii Public Radio.

Senate resolution wants more restaurants to give leftovers to homeless shelters. KITV.

Free app allows users to get more involved in certain bills. The Kakou app was launched last month by Pacific Resource Partnership, which represents the Hawaii construction industry and advocates for the Honolulu Rail Transit project. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Councilman Ron Menor is flexing his political muscle, saying city taxpayers shouldn’t have to pay ex-police chief Louis Kealoha’s legal fees as he fights almost two dozen federal criminal charges. Hawaii News Now.

After City Offered Help, Kealoha Says He Wants To Stick With His Federal Lawyer. Details must still be worked out regarding whether Honolulu or the federal government will cover the former police chief’s legal costs. Civil Beat.

Deadline looms for public comment on 2nd Draft EIS of Ala Moana Regional Park improvement plan. For several years the city has wanted to improve Ala Moana Regional Park and Magic Island, and officials have a plan that's being reviewed in an Environmental Impact Statement. KHON2.

Today is the last day to comment on a proposed plan to change Ala Moana regional park. The city is looking at reconfiguring parking, widening walkways, opening a dog park and constructing a playground. KITV.

New law now gives neighborhoods the option to require permits to street park. Honolulu’s Mayor signed a new law Friday that would allow restricted parking zones in residential neighborhoods. Hawaii News Now.

Following infuriating Kalihi gridlock, drivers wonder if it could’ve been avoided.  A traffic nightmare in Kalihi Friday night had some drivers running low on both fuel — and patience. Hawaii News Now.

A popular Oahu hiking trail could see money for much-needed repairs. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell wants to set aside $1 million for work on the Koko Crater Trail. Hawaii News Now.

The Boat People Of The Ala Wai Fear They’re Getting Forced Out. For years a lucky few have lived aboard their vessels at the gateway to Waikiki. But a bill in the Legislature portends big changes. Civil Beat.

Sailing club faces an uncertain future as their lease is set to expire in April. La Mariana Sailing Club has survived two tsunamis, a swindler’s attempted takeover and more than 60 years in business. But the waterfront fixture at Keehi Lagoon could be facing its biggest survival test yet. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Political Mailers: Shamelessly Exploiting The News Media. News organizations have no say over how their material is used. In fact, we often don’t even know it is being used. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Speak out about county government: Charter Commission schedules public hearings. What’s your opinion about four-year council terms? How about a 1 percent disaster fund? The power of council members to discipline one of their own? Should the Police Commission and Fire Commission be authorized to discipline their respective chiefs? West Hawaii Today.

Vacation rental rules updated. After taking community input during two public hearings last month, the county Planning Department late Wednesday published what may become its final draft of rules regulating short-term vacation rentals. West Hawaii Today.

Permits for TMT backup proceed amid Mauna Kea obstacles. As the developer of the Thirty Meter Telescope works to fulfill the requirements of its permit for construction atop Mauna Kea, it also is drawing closer to gaining final approvals for its backup site in the Canary Islands. Star-Advertiser.

Pahala residents hear sewer financing options. The head of Hawaii County’s Department of Environmental Management met with Pahala residents Thursday evening to present options for financing mandated sewer hookups that will cost some homeowners thousands of dollars each. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige on Thursday released $2.4 million in construction funds for renovations at Kona Community Hospital. That will include work on operating rooms as well as upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning. West Hawaii Today.

Economist talks about future of state, post-eruption. A leading Hawaii economist believes the state’s economy might not completely recover from the Kilauea eruption before the next major economic recession. Tribune-Herald.

The fresh lava flows in Puna may appear lifeless and barren. But to one insect in particular, known as the lava cricket, it’s prime real estate. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Controversy flows at water meeting. Upcountry water users get 27% of their supply from East Maui, not 80%. Maui News.

Water director: East Maui streams are protected regardless of permit decision. The county’s top water official clarified what he called a “misconception” in the murky debate over the connection between East Maui waters and the debated HB1326 in the state Legislature, which would extend revocable water permits for Mahi Pono, the company that recently acquired 41,000 acres of Alexander & Baldwin’s farmland. Maui News.

Maui’s new medical care provider has hired five doctors in the last four months, bringing to 11 the number of new physicians Maui Health System has brought in since Kaiser Permanente took over management of Maui County’s three public hospitals nearly two years ago. Associated Press.

State Withholds Names Of Inmates Transferred After Maui Riot. A total of 37 prisoners were flown to Oahu after their suspected involvement in the disturbance, but five have been returned to Maui. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Ohia Rapid Death Prevention Efforts Stepped Up on Kauai. State officials are ramping up efforts on Kauai to prevent the spread of diseases that are killing ohia trees. Hawaii Public Radio.

In a University of Hawaii laboratory, scientists are researching the newly identified fungus that’s causing rapid ohia death (ROD) in the endemic trees on Kauai and Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

Kuleana lands on Zuckerberg's Kauai estate sold at auction. The four kuleana parcels within Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s estate on Kauai were sold at public auction Friday — three to a retired University of Hawaii professor and one to a group of relatives, all descendants of the land’s original owner. Pacific Business News.

Thursday, March 7, 2019

Election reform, involuntary psychiatric commitment, fireworks bills advance in Legislature, state auditor cancels rail contract, battle over taxpayer-funded ex-police chief defense, heavy metals found near East Hawaii schools, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy House Majority Office
Keiki day at the Capitol PC:House Majority Office
Keiki rallied at the Capitol Wednesday for children's issues. Advocates rallied at the Capitol Wednesday to support active bills regarding children's health, safety and education in the state Legislature. KHON2.

Hawaii parents, pushing to make it more affordable took their message to the State Capitol Wednesday morning calling on lawmakers to invest in our keiki and make early child care and pre-school available for all families. KITV.

=====

Hawaii’s economic growth expected to rebound. The ongoing slow growth of Hawaii’s economy is expected to pick up slightly this year after easing last year, according to a new state forecast. Star-Advertiser.

Economy Projected To Grow At Slower Pace Than U.S. Average. The latest economic growh report, released today by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, shows the state economy expanded by 0.7 percent from January to September, lower than the 2.8 percent for the U.S. average over the same time period. Hawaii Public Radio.

Read DBEDT's quarterly economic report.

=====

Hawaii lawmakers pass automatic recount, voter registration. Hawaii lawmakers have passed several bills to make it easier to vote and boost confidence in elections. Associated Press.

The State House of Representatives unveiled its election reform bills that crossed over to the Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers in both houses of the Hawaii state Legislature appear ready to approve a proposal which would institute automatic recounts in closely contested elections. The legislation, which will require a constitutional amendment approved by voters, was pushed forward at the Capitol as a reaction to the state Supreme Court being thrust into action following the 2018 general election. Hawaii News Now.

Many Climate Change Bills Are Still Alive, Including A Carbon Tax. At the session’s halfway point, several new measures have support. But some current initiatives will expire if action isn’t taken. Civil Beat.

Fireworks bill targets property owners and allows video evidence. The use of illegal aerial fireworks has sky-rocketed in Hawaii. KHON2.

Bill Focuses On Revolving Door Of Involuntary Psychiatric Treatments. The measure would form a task force to find ways to make emergency mental health admissions more efficient, and better protect the public. Civil Beat.

Changes could make it easier to commit mentally ill to treatment. State lawmakers want to change the law, so that more mentally ill people can be forced into treatment. KITV.

Southwest Airlines has new fuel-efficient planes coming that would allow the carrier to add more destinations to its lineup of flights between Hawaii and the mainland, a spokesman said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kealoha lawyer seeks city funding for fees. An attorney for former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha on Wednesday urged the Police Commission to use taxpayer money to pay for the lawyers representing him in two federal criminal cases. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline approaches for City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro to respond to petition calling for his suspension. 19 days ago, state Attorney General Clare Connors filed a petition for extraordinary with the Hawaii Supreme Court, writing that Kaneshiro should not be allowed to serve as city prosecutor -- at least for the time being -- given his serious conflicts of interest as the target of a federal probe. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Auditor has canceled a contract with a company that was supposed to review change orders for the $9.2 billion Honolulu rail project, and it is unclear whether that report will ever be completed. Star-Advertiser.

Federal Probe Has State Looking To Pull Back On Rail Audits. Proposed legislation would repeal the requirement for more audits. But added scrutiny has already led state finance officials to withhold $40 million from HART. Civil Beat.

A rail station was changed to save money. Now, a do-over could cost millions. Hawaii News Now.

The reason for Oahu’s 20% drop in sheltered homeless? Far fewer shelter beds exist. The sharp decrease -- which led to a 4 percent drop in Oahu’s overall homeless population -- is being blamed on the closure of a transitional shelter shelter in West Oahu and on new government regulations that forced the state’s largest homeless service provider to reduce capacity. Hawaii News Now.

State senator films Maili brush fire, police standoff while riding bus. State Sen. Maile Shimbukuro happened to be riding TheBus home from the state Capitol and took photos of the large brush fire as the bus slowly moved through congested traffic. Star-Advertiser.

Business incubator unveiled in Kakaako. The developer of the “Entrepreneur’s Sandbox” held a blessing for the $7.3 million state-owned business incubation center, which was paid for by federal, state and private funding. Star-Advertiser.

Argosy University Students Advised To Prepare For Possible Friday Closing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Argosy University could close as soon as Friday. KHON2.

Oahu home prices make modest February gains. The Honolulu Board of Realtors on Wednesday released sales data that showed roughly 2 percent increases for median sale prices of single-family homes and condominiums last month. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home sales drop in February as median price posts gains. Home prices on Oahu posted modest gains in February, compared with a year ago, as sales of single-family homes declined by 4 percent and condominium sales dropped by 17 percent, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The state Department of Education and Department of Health are implementing environmental hazard management plans at 18 East Hawaii schools after a study found elevated levels of contaminants such as lead, arsenic and chlordane in the soil at those facilities. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Education has found elevated levels of lead, arsenic or chlordane in the soil at 18 of the 23 public schools it tested in eastern Hawaii island, mostly around the perimeters of old buildings. Star-Advertiser.

The Big Island’s only jail is going to get larger, but that’s just to better house its current population of inmates, not increase the inmate population. West Hawaii Today.

Opponents Will Try To Stop Geothermal Plant From Reopening. Even though the power facility damaged by last year’s lava flows is expected to be “operational” by year’s end, it’s facing challenges. Civil Beat.

More than a year after plans surfaced and fizzled for a pilot program to manage surf schools at Kahaluu Bay, businesses are still in the dark about how to get permits to teach wave riding at the popular spot. West Hawaii Today.

Home prices on Hawaii's Big Island jump in February. The median price of a single-family home on the Big Island in February was $382,000, an increase of 18.45 percent from $322,500 in February last year. Sales declined to 152 homes sold, 5 percent fewer than the 160 homes sold in February 2018. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County’s state lawmakers were divided over their support of House Bill 1326 as the controversial measure on revocable water permits crossed over to the Senate on Tuesday. Maui News.

More than 15 soon-to-be released or furloughed inmates incarcerated at the Maui Community Correctional Center recently completed approximately 56 hours of workforce industry training from the Office of Extended Learning and Workforce Development at the University of Hawaii Maui College. Maui Now.

Grand Wailea plans appear before design board. Suggestions offered for saving chapel, masking parking structure. Maui News.

Kauai

Taxis in the terminal. A tentative agreement was recently reached between Lihue Airport administrators and taxi drivers who were threatening to strike if their demands for a curbside presence at the terminal continued to be ignored. Garden Island.

Kauai waits for Southwest flights. Flights to and from Kauai haven’t yet been announced. Tuesday, Southwest Airlines spokesman Brad Hawkins said that’s in the works. Garden Island.

Home sales on Kauai drop in February. There were only 26 single-family homes sold on Kauai last month, a 50.94 percent drop from 53 homes sold in February 2018. The median price of those homes was $689,000, a 4.97 percent decline from $725,000 in February 2018. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

Maui County wants to hold Molokai event to obtain, renew TWIC credentials. People who pick up shipments at state harbors, such as Kaunakakai Harbor, need to present a TWIC card, and the County of Maui Office of Economic Development is stepping up to offer an event to help people obtain or renew this credential. TWIC stands for Transportation Worker Identification Credential. KHON2.

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

Attorney general petitions Supreme Court for Honolulu prosecutor's suspension, Katherine Kealoha and Waimea physician brother indicted on drug trafficking charges, rail scrutiny sought, downtown Honolulu office high-rise to turn into affordable apartments, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Attorney General Clare Connors, Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro
Hawaii Attorney General Clare E. Connors on Tuesday asked the Hawaii Supreme Court to immediately suspend Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro, who is a target of a federal investigation. Star-Advertiser.

State Attorney General Clare Connors contends the Honolulu prosecuting attorney should be temporarily removed from office because of his potential entanglement in a federal corruption case. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's attorney general is asking the state's highest court to immediately suspend Honolulu's top prosecutor because he is the target of a federal investigation. Associated Press.

Attorney general seeks ‘immediate suspension’ of embattled city prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

What's next if prosecutor goes on leave, quits or gets ousted. KHON2.

=====

Katherine Kealoha, a former Honolulu deputy prosecutor and the wife of a former Honolulu police chief, dealt illegal prescription drugs obtained from her brother, a Big Island doctor, and used her position to protect him from arrest, federal prosecutors alleged in an indictment unsealed Tuesday.  Star-Advertiser.

In a federal indictment unsealed Tuesday, former deputy city prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and her brother, Big Island Dr. Rudolph Puana, face new charges of selling powerful opioid painkillers illegally prescribed by Puana, covering it up from police and thwarting the prosecution of the case. Civil Beat.

In shocking 54-count indictment, Katherine Kealoha and doctor brother charged with dealing drugs. Hawaii News Now.

In page-turner of a court filing, prosecutors detail the Kealohas’ ‘house of cards’. Hawaii News Now.

To think it all came crashing down with a report of a stolen mailbox in 2013 that would later spark investigations into former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and her husband, former Chief of Police, Louis Kealoha. KHON2.

Katherine Kealoha indicted on drug distribution charges. KITV.

=====

The 2019 Legislative Session is almost at the 1/3rd mark but work on the State Budget appears to be moving slower than before. Hawaii Public Radio.

A bill that would shift authority over the state’s airports from the Department of Transportation to an independent airports corporation was introduced for the fourth consecutive year. Tribune-Herald.

State legislators are again considering bills to restrict the areas where tobacco or e-cigarettes can be sold, and to make smoking more expensive by increasing the state’s tobacco tax. Star-Advertiser.

A Senate Committee Tuesday passed a bill to clarify the language on Hawaii's ban on gay conversion therapy. KITV.

Gov. Ige extends emergency proclamation on homelessness. West Hawaii Today.

A Micronesian government official was arrested in Honolulu for his alleged connection to a bribery case involving the head of an Oahu engineering firm. Hawaii News Now.

Federal authorities in Honolulu have arrested a high-ranking government official from the Federated States of Micronesia in the latest development in a Hawaii bribery scandal involving a prominent local engineer. Civil Beat.

44-year-old Master Halbert is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering for allegedly accepting bribes from a Hawaii-based engineering company to secure nearly $8 million in contracts from the FSM government. KITV.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council newcomer Heidi Tsuneyoshi is calling for a forensic audit of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s procurement processes as well as the city’s management of rail contracts. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Heidi Tsuneyoshi will be introducing a resolution to conduct a forensic audit of the 8.6 billion dollar Rail Transit Project. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Honolulu lawmaker is calling for a forensic audit of the City's rail project. KITV.

A measure to raise height limits for high rises in Kakaako tabled in House Committee meeting. KITV.

The owner of the 25-story downtown Honolulu office tower 1132 Bishop announced plans today to convert the building into about 500 residential apartments with moderate rent. Star-Advertiser.

The owner of one of Honolulu’s most recognizable office buildings unveiled plans on Tuesday to convert most of the property into hundreds of workforce rental apartments. Hawaii News Now.

Kyo-ya is gearing up to raze the existing Princess Kaiulani Hotel to construct Waikiki’s first new all-hotel tower in nearly 40 years. Star-Advertiser.

Massive flood control project for Waikiki would gobble up schools’ outdoors space. Hawaii News Now.

Experts seek long-term solutions to North Shore’s chronic erosion problem. Hawaii News Now.

The Legislature came closer to setting the framework for rusting Aloha Stadium’s future Tuesday by quickly deferring House Bill 695 and leaving just two identical bills, House Bill 1497 and Senate Bill 1530, dealing with a new stadium progressing in the session. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools has announced three finalists in the running to become a new trustee. Hawaii News Now.

Group Calls For Ouster Of Humane Society CEO. Excessive euthanizations and hostile working conditions are alleged by an organization that includes former and current employees. Civil Beat.

Vehicle registrations can now be done at Safeways. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Florida-headquartered Southern Airways Express announced Tuesday that it has acquired Mokulele Airlines, but the local airline’s customers can still count on seeing the same branding and employees they’ve come to know and could potentially see new destinations on the horizon. West Hawaii Today.

A winter storm that caused reported wind gusts of 191 mph late Sunday afternoon at the Maunakea summit caused minor damage to at least two observatories, but didn’t affect operations, officials said. Tribune-Herald.

Trimming traffic: Bill to widen Kuakini Highway passes first committee hearing. West Hawaii Today.

Increased Military Training In Hawaii Raises Concern. Big Island Video News.

Maui

An opening hearing will be held to receive testimony on the Auwahi Wind Farm draft Habitat Conservation Plan amendment. Auwahi Wind Energy, LLC operates eight 3-megawatt wind turbines augmented by an 11-megawatt battery storage system located on ‘Ulupalakua Ranch, on the eastern side of the island of Maui. Maui Now.

A public informational meeting has been set for 6 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Department of Planning conference room for proposed Maui County amendments to the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code. KHON2.

Rangers: Look but don’t go to snow. White winter reached down the mountain to Polipoli; scores still without power. Maui News.

Atop Haleakala, the wintry storm conditions are sticking around. Maui County officials said Tuesday afternoon that the Haleakala National Park summit district was closed and will remained closed until the wintry conditions subside. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Gov. David Ige on Tuesday issued a sixth supplementary proclamation for Kauai County, which continues to recover from severe flooding and damage caused by heavy rains in April. Garden Island.

Suicide death numbers lower in January. In 2017, there were 25 reported suicide deaths on Kauai. In 2018, there were 18. Garden Island.

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Ige proposes hikes in gas, vehicle taxes; state GOP wants tax exemptions for food and medicine; Honolulu City Council advances bus fare hikes; Hawaii open-carry law in federal court, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
2011 file photo pumping gas in Hilo ©2019 All Hawaii News
Gov. David Ige’s administration is proposing increases in the state gasoline tax, weight tax and vehicle registration fees to collect an extra $40 million a year for road maintenance and other highway projects. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Makes Lt. Gov Green Point Man On Homeless. Governor David Ige is officially giving Lieutenant Governor Josh Green a greater role in dealing with the difficult issue of homelessness in Hawaii, as Green had hoped he would. Big Island Video News.

Republicans propose tax exemptions on food, medical services, feminine hygiene products. The measure, HB 610, would exempt certain foods, medical services, and feminine hygiene products from the General Excise Tax. Representative Lauren Matsumoto says dozens of states already have similar tax exemptions so it's about time Hawaii does too. KHON2.

The governor is proposing to raise the minimum wage in Hawaii to $15 an hour by 2024, while offering small businesses tax credits to offset the increase. Under the governor’s plan, the current minimum wage of $10.10 an hour would go up to $11 in 2020 and then increase by $1 annually through 2024. Hawaii News Now.

New bill would allow schools to ask for donations for facilities. That means schools can ask businesses, companies or even private donors for money to foot the bill. In exchange, the donor could have their name or product placement visible. KHON2.

State Improperly Shared Unsubstantiated Reports Of Child Abuse For Years. Federal officials have told the Hawaii Department of Human Services to stop using the reports outside of child abuse investigations. Civil Beat.

George K. Young Jr., Continues His Quest To Open Carry Firearms. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in July that Hawaii’s law to carry firearms is unconstitutional. The State and Hawaii County have petitioned the Court to reconsider. Hawaii Public Radio.

TSA agents at Hawaii airports are starting to turn in their resignations. The burden of working with no pay has gotten to be too much for some federal workers impacted by the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 33rd day. Hawaii News Now.

Hardships faced by Hawaii's TSA employees. Because of the shutdown, homes, health and even their very jobs may hang in the balance for Hawaii workers with the Transportation Security Administration. KITV.

What Kai Kahele's Bid for Congress Means for the Neighbor Islands. If elected, Kahele would be the first neighbor island resident to represent the second congressional district, which is made up primarily of the neighbor islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The City Council Budget Committee on Wednesday adopted a proposal by Chairwoman Ann Kobayashi that would increase the single-ride bus fare to $3 from $2.75, the one-day pass fare to $6 from $5.50, monthly passes to $80 from $70, and annual passes to $880 from $770. Star-Advertiser.

Police Commission Opts For Public Hearings In Former Chief’s Case. Louis Kealoha says he needs taxpayer help to pay for his criminal defense lawyers. Civil Beat.

Police commissioners blast city legal team for ‘breathtakingly’ bad advice. The chair and vice chair of the Honolulu Police Commission — both of them experienced attorneys — complained Wednesday about poor legal advice the body received from the city’s office of Corporation Counsel when it was led by Donna Leong. Hawaii News Now.

Former Police Chief Wants Taxpayers To Cover His Criminal Defense. Louis Kealoha already has a federal public defender but now wants the city to provide legal help, too. Civil Beat.

More charges may be filed against members of sovereignty group who stormed OHA. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed West Oahu wind farm gets voted down at neighborhood board meetings. West Oahu residents speak out against proposed wind farm project. KITV.

Inquiry prompts Airbnb to remove Hawaii mobile vacation rental listings. Airbnb has removed all mobile vacation rental listings in Hawaii from its online hosting site. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR finds a dead honu, fish in abandoned lay net along an Oahu shore. Hawaii News Now.

Prospects to save the Falls of Clyde at Honolulu Harbor appear to be sinking as another deal for a lift ship to transport it back to Scotland, originally anticipated to take place in early February, fell through. Star-Advertiser.

All Nippon Airways this spring will begin offering passengers on its Tokyo-Honolulu routes a chance to fly on the world’s largest passenger plane, which has 520 seats. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Nature Conservancy survey finds Hawaii island reefs recovering. Star-Advertiser.

The purchase of a large Ka'u tract for conservation might take more time as Hawaii County seeks to set aside 25 acres for a wastewater treatment plant. Tribune-Herald.

Evidence tampering, assaults against youth and other allegations of misconduct were among a disciplinary report submitted to the state Legislature by the Hawaii Police Department. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council gave final approval Wednesday to bills adding disaster recovery projects to the capital budget.Tribune-Herald.

Maui

As Hurricane Lane Approached, Some Boats Had Nowhere To Escape. Tour boat operators say they were “blindsided” when state harbor officials barred them from taking shelter in commercial ports — a change from years past. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige wants to return to the old formula of giving the counties a straight percentage of the hotel room tax, instead of setting a cap that has long been a sore point for Maui County officials. Maui News.

A management plan is being developed for 244 acres of land at Honolua Bay and Lipoa Point in West Maui. The land was acquired by the state from Maui Land & Pineapple Inc. in 2014, in an effort to preserve the area in perpetuity. Maui Now.

Equipped with park guidelines, maps and other information, Friends of Haleakala National Park volunteers spent last weekend at the summit in an effort to help protect the park. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino will be the featured guest speaker at the LahainaTown Action Committee’s annual meeting on Monday, Jan. 28, 2019 at 5 p.m. at the Pioneer Inn Courtyard. Maui Now.

Kauai

Anini Beach will be getting lifeguards. The Kauai County Council on Wednesday approved funding for three new lifeguard positions to address safety concerns at North Shore beaches crowded with visitors during the winter season. Garden Island.

World’s Biggest Solar Power Plant Relies On A Flock Of Sheep. The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is far ahead of the statewide schedule for conversion to alternative energy sources for producing electricity. Civil Beat.

Friday, October 12, 2018

Lab rejects 20% of medical marijuana, Caldwell signs homeless sidewalk encampment ban, feds seize Kealoha home, Kauai beach smoking ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Medical marijuana sign in Hilo © 2018 All Hawaii News
Lab: More than 20 percent of Hawaii medical marijuana products rejected for sale. The state requires rigorous testing of medical marijuana. Hawaii News Now.

A diverse and powerful coalition made up of unions, businesses and environmentalists are working together to urge residents to vote ‘no’ in the general election on whether to hold a state constitutional convention Star-Advertiser.

Can A Moderate Like Ed Case Still Thrive In Washington? The Hawaii Democrat is likely headed back to Congress. But his centrist views are definitely out of style in a U.S. Capitol split by partisanship. Civil Beat.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees suspended personal allowances for members last year. But the Board is contemplating taking action to resolve this matter. Hawaii Public Radio.

In what could prove a lasting black eye, visitors staying at five hotels where workers are on strike are taking to social media to complain about what they thought would be their dream Hawaii vacations. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's unemployment rates are low, but businesses are suffering. KHON2.

The Greenpeace’s Arctic Sunrise arrived in Honolulu on Thursday morning as part of a global campaign to raise awareness about plastic pollution. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu


Federal authorities have seized the Hawaii Kai home of Honolulu’s former police chief and his wife, a former deputy city prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

Today was the deadline for retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his former deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Kealoha to move out of their Hawaii Kai home to allow the government to sell it. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas ordered to move out of Hawaii Kai home. KHON2.

=====

The city’s updated, 95-page action plan for tackling homelessness unveiled by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Thursday calls for launching public safety initiatives and providing more health care services for the unsheltered. Star-Advertiser.

The mayor signed two bills into law Thursday that ban the homeless from sleeping or living on public sidewalks, but neither take effect right away. Hawaii News Now.

Two bills aimed at cracking down on homeless encampments are now law. KHON2.

Honolulu has two new laws to stop the homeless from blocking sidewalks. Enforcement is the issue. KITV.

=====

Most Of Oahu’s Shelters Are A Long Way From Hurricane Ready. The state is assessing the conditions of shelters and retrofitting some, but the work is expensive and slow. Civil Beat.

Par Hawaii broke ground Thursday on a $27 million distillate hydrotreater that will produce clean, ultra-low sulfur diesel and enable the Kapolei- based refinery to produce more jet fuel — two products that are in high demand in the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's sole remaining refinery, Par Hawaii, on Thursday broke ground on a new production module that will enable the company to increase its output of clean-burning jet fuel and ultra-low sulfur diesel. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Big Island Dairy officials say steps are being taken to reduce the possibility of future wastewater discharges at the Ookala facility. Tribune-Herald.

A plan to make 766 acres of land in Honomu available for a Subsistence Agricultural Homestead Community by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is examined in a draft environmental assessment, or EA. Big Island Video News.

Former officer testifies in his defense. A former Hawaii Police officer accused of fatally striking a cyclist testified in 3rd Circuit Court he didn’t remember the moment the collision occurred the morning of March 1, 2015. West Hawaii Today.

Only a quarter of lava evacuees have found permanent housing. As many as 10 percent of affected households are believed to have left the state. Hawaii News Now.

Why A New Beach Created By Lava May Doom A Popular Boat Ramp. Pohoiki was home to a ramp heavily used by fishermen. Now officials must decide whether to restore it or preserve a black sand beach. Civil Beat.

Five months after the 6.9 earthquake occurred during the eruption of Kilauea, smaller-magnitude earthquakes in the same area are still occurring. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Arakawa administration on Wednesday transmitted a request for funding and approval to Maui County Council members in order to purchase 8,764 acres of land and easements owned by Wailuku Water Company in the West Maui watershed. Maui Now.

Watershed lands purchase submitted to council. Arakawa pushing $9.5 million buy from Wailuku Water. Maui News.

About two dozen Maui residents asked the state Commission on Water Resource Management during a public fact-gathering meeting Tuesday night to release more water to Kahoma Stream, which could be “one of the most thriving freshwater ecosystems” on the island. Maui News.

Workshops on Effective Lobbying Comes to Maui Oct. 15-18. Several “How-To” workshops will be held on Maui to educate the public on effective lobbying at the legislature. Maui Now.

Maui Journalist Documents The Early Days of Activism.  Journalist Gary Kubota has covered news in the islands for  40 decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Trump administration’s $250 billion tariffs on goods exported by China is being felt on Maui, where Ceramic Tile Plus & EY Design, a supplier of tiles, countertops and cabinets, is expecting to see a 45 percent increase next month in the price of quartz countertops. Pacific Business News.

The sale in September of an oceanfront unit at the Montage Residences Kapalua Bay on Maui last month for nearly $9 million was the highest-priced condominium sale recorded on Maui in September, and the highest price for a condo in Kapalua Resort so far this year. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Former female employees of the Kauai Marriott Resort &Beach Club in Lihue have filed a lawsuit in Fifth Circuit Court against the hotel conglomerate, alleging a fellow employee recorded them using the bathroom and changing clothes in the female locker room. Garden Island.

Poipu Beach Park is now a designated, tobacco-free facility. The Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawaii and community partners worked with Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and county Parks and Recreation Director Lenny Rapozo to prohibit tobacco use, including electronic smoking devices, in the park. Garden Island.

On Thursday, Oct. 11, Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. and community partners announced that Poipu Beach Park is now a designated, tobacco-free facility. KHON2.

Poipu Beach Park saying bye bye to butts, now tobacco-free. The park is completely tobacco-free, including e-cigarettes. KITV.

The Hammers N’ Ales fundraiser for the Kauai Habitat for Humanity is 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the Poipu Beach Athletic Club. Garden Island.

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Inouye, Kamehameha Schools sex scandals revisited, huge raises for Hawaii County officials, no new landfill for Oahu, Maui group sues DLNR over boat traffic, mental hospital escapee fights extradition, Kauai whale beaching hearing held, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
File photo: late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye © 2017 All Hawaii News
Would Dan Inouye Have Survived 1992 Sex Allegations Today? Accusations against the revered Hawaii senator didn’t generate much of a public outcry 25 years ago. Civil Beat.

The Kamehameha Schools administration in the 1990s dropped the ball by not investigating allegations of sexual abuse against a psychiatrist who had treated hundreds of students from the late 1950s to the early 1980s, a board member from that period told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools sex abuse victims: 'Monster' stole our childhoods. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools responds to sex abuse scandal. Hawaii News Now.

PHOTOS: Hidden Betrayal: Kamehameha Schools Scandal. Hawaii News Now.

‘Attack’ siren to sound Friday. Schoolchildren statewide won’t be scurrying for shelter Friday when officials sound an “attack warning” siren in the first test of its kind in decades. Star-Advertiser.

State Hospital escapee fights extradition to Hawaii. Hawaii State Hospital escapee Randall Saito today contested extradition to Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air just one of several airport tenants that owe the state rent money. KHON2.

Craigslist: Where Desperate Hawaii Renters Plead For Help. Online postings show the dire straits would-be renters face in one of the nation’s most expensive housing markets. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Project to provide 160 homes for Native Hawaiians. More than 100 Native Hawaiians are inching closer to homeownership as the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands works to complete a long-planned subdivision in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

The judge in the federal criminal case against former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, his prosecutor wife, Katherine Kealoha, and four former members of the Honolulu Police Department’s Criminal Intelligence Unit has pushed back the trial by six months. Star-Advertiser.

New Kealoha Defense Tactic: Going After ‘Mainland Prosecutors’ A federal judge pushed back the trial date until June due to the complexity of the case and sheer volume of the evidence. Civil Beat.

City wants to extend landfill’s life. The city will move forward with its plan to continue using the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill into the near future with the hope that it won’t need a new location down the line, Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Despite new rankings for alternate landfills, mayor opposes opening new site. The city released a consultant's report on Monday that includes new rankings for the 11 sites identified as possible alternatives to the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill. Hawaii News Now.

A new report shows the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill may only have 20-years left, but Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday afternoon, he does not want another landfill on Oahu. KITV.

Accessory dwellings touted as alternative to ‘monster’ homes. The leader of the Honolulu Board of Realtors said Oahu homeowners looking to help family, friends or even strangers with housing should look into the idea of creating an accessory dwelling unit on their properties. Star-Advertiser.

Many huge homes not illegal under current city laws. While they’re getting a ramped-up number of complaints from Oahu residents about the large-scale houses that are creeping into their neighborhoods, Honolulu City Council members are learning that existing zoning and building laws allow for much more than people think. Star-Advertiser.

A public hearing will be held Tuesday in the hearing room of the Mission Memorial Building on the Honolulu Hale municipal ground to discuss quiet times at the 17 campsites the city maintains across Oahu. KHON2.

Tempers fray over parking fees, maintenance on private Kakaako roads. Hawaii News Now.

Retail plan near Sharks Cove advances. The public has another opportunity to comment on a developer’s plan to build a “rural” retail complex on Oahu’s North Shore as part of a state environmental review. Star-Advertiser.

Two More Condo And Hotel Towers Proposed For Ala Moana. The city planning department has given the green light to the builders as long as they add more community benefits. Civil Beat.

Ex-officer gets 6-month sentence for seeking sex to fix case. Former University of Hawaii volleyball player and fired Honolulu police officer Maulia LaBarre is going to jail for six months for offering to help a woman get her prostitution case dismissed in exchange for sex. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Cop Sentenced For Helping Prostitute In Exchange For Sex. Judge cites “abuse of your position of power” in sentencing Maulia LaBarre to six months behind bars. Associated Press.

A former University of Hawaii volleyball player and former Honolulu Police Department officer was sentenced Monday to 6 months in prison for federal wire fraud. KITV.

OCCC clearing out contraband. KITV.

Sleep Number to open first Hawaii store in December. U.S. mattress and bedding brand Sleep Number will open its first Hawaii store on West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas for some top county officials who will see double-digit raises as high as 39.7 percent. West Hawaii Today.

An underground leak slowed motorists Monday but didn’t create a significant impact on the water-sensitive region. West Hawaii Today.

Six Rescued From Sinking Vessel Off Hawaii Island. The Coast Guard, and good Samaritans rescued six fishermen from the 57-foot fishing vessel, Jane, reportedly taking on water 110 miles southeast of the Big Island of Hawaii on Monday. Big Island Now.

Prominent San Diego couple, George and Gladys Novinger, swept away in Wailuku River. The couple owns Vineyard Hacienda, a Spanish hacienda-style inn on a 9-acre property with a Bordeaux wine grape vineyard in Rancho San Diego. Tribune-Herald.

Winter arrives on Big Island summits. Snow fell Monday on the summits of Mauna Loa and Maunakea after the National Weather Service declared a winter storm warning. Tribune-Herald.

A winter wonderland! Mauna Kea sees heavy snow (and more is on the way). Hawaii News Now.

Coffee Theft on Hawaii Island. Agriculture theft has been a problem on Hawaii Island for decades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most Hilo locations already sold out of cut Christmas trees. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A lawsuit has been filed against the state Department of Land and Natural Resources over the current permitting system for tour boat operators off of Kaanapali Beach. Maui Now.

Fire-damaged Kahului school to reopen Thursday. Kahului Elementary School will remain closed to students until Thursday as staff work to cope with the aftermath of a suspected arson fire. Star-Advertiser.

Kahului Elementary Remains Closed Until Thursday, Nov. 30. Maui Now.

Kahului Elementary School remains closed today after a suspicious fire Friday night burned six classrooms, damaged the school’s waterlines and left parents and students frustrated and saddened. Maui News.

Kauai

A briefing to discuss findings regarding the October beaching of pilot whales on Kauai is scheduled at 10 a.m. today at the State Capitol building. Garden Island.

Samples taken from 45 mullet-like fish found in Lehua tide pools during the summer 2017 rat-eradication project are too degraded to point to what killed the animals. Garden Island.

Loop Road in Wailua has been closed past the point known as “Jurassic Gate” temporarily, after recent rains created muddy conditions and caused trees to fall over the dirt road. Garden Island.

More abandoned dogs being found at Kokee kennels. Garden Island.