Hawaii still tops for homeless, Obama in town, Honolulu police chief selection delayed, monk seal in road slows Maui traffic, no cool schools for Big Island, Maui hospital lawsuit dismissed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Homeless in Hawaii © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii still has the highest per capita homeless population in the country “but things have started to gel” in the islands, according to the western regional coordinator for the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Health gave the green light Wednesday for two more production facilities to begin growing medical marijuana, despite not being able to sell the drug to consumers yet. Star-Advertiser.

Expert: Amid delays, patient died waiting for medical marijuana relief. Hawaii News Now.


Legislation to ban certain sunscreen chemicals in Hawai’i stalled in the final days of the 2017 session.  But, state lawmakers are already starting their push to pass the bills next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Former President Barack Obama in the islands for unannounced visit. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s congressional delegation on Wednesday introduced federal legislation to reinstate Medicaid coverage for eligible Micronesians living and working in the United States. Civil Beat.

Hawaii will experience another round of exceptional king tides Friday and Saturday as some of the highest tides of the year will again be enhanced by higher-­than-normal sea levels. Star-Advertiser.

How HECO Is Trying To Modernize Its Electric Grid. Hawaiian Electric is drafting a new strategy after regulators rejected an earlier $736 million proposal in part because it didn’t serve solar users well. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines’ baggage fee revenue declined in the first quarter even though the state’s largest carrier transported more passengers than in the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air is suffering through growing pains as it continues to reinvent itself with new aircraft and additional routes. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The selection of a new police chief has been delayed again, this time because the entity initially selected to help the Honolulu Police Commission make the pick backed out, Commission Chairman Max Sword said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Honolulu Police Chief’s Fight For Legal Fees Turns Nasty. Police Commissioner Loretta Sheehan says the former chief’s attempt to have her removed from the case is “baseless.” Civil Beat.

Search for Honolulu’s next police chief delayed after consultant backs out. KHON2.

Retired police Chief Louis Kealoha wants Honolulu Police Commissioner Loretta Sheehan disqualified from considering any matters that involve him, arguing she’s been critical of him and the police department in the past. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Public Safety on Wednesday released a report on the latest on where to replace the current Oahu Community Correctional Center. Civil Beat. Report here.

A homeless camp that had been hidden in the mangroves along the Ala Wai Canal is beginning to emerge as more and more people are moving in. Hawaii News Now.

The Environmental Protection Agency, state Department of Health, the Navy and the Defense Logistics Agency are holding an “open house” tonight to update the public on the status of the Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility. Star-Advertiser.

North shore residents are fed up that nothing is being done to fix the heavy traffic near the famous "Turtle Beach" at Laniakea. Now, a campaign is shifting blame for the congestion to the turtles. Hawaii News Now.

Attorney General’s office seeks answers to city’s new Bikeshare program. KHON2.

Biki bike pushback at Kapiolani Park. KITV.

A woman whose pet store was connected to a Waimanalo puppy mill owned by her father is getting the chance to avoid conviction for tax evasion. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The state’s plan to cool 1,000 classrooms by this fall won’t initially benefit many schools on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

The cleanup at Old Airport Park is posing more of a logistical challenge than the new administration anticipated when it made the project a priority soon after assuming office. West Hawaii Today.

Lottery decides waiting list for Kona housing development. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Island Family Medicine Residency Program has done exactly what planners hoped — its graduates now plan to practice medicine in Hawaii; two in Hilo, one in Honolulu. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A renewable energy startup company will break ground on old sugar land this summer. Star-Advertiser.

A new energy crop will soon be tested on former sugar plantation lands in Central Maui. Alexander & Baldwin is teaming up with a California-based business to grow pongamia trees on 250 acres near Kihei. Hawaii News Now.

The state Employees’ Retirement System and the Hawaii Health Systems Corp., which operates the state’s public hospitals, formally agreed to drop a lawsuit this week over benefits for about 1,500 employees at three Maui County hospitals. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit dismissed, clearing the way for transfer of hospitals. Maui News.

A monk seal came up partially on the road on the Honoapiilani Highway in Olowalu Wednessday afternoon, slowing traffic on the busy thoroughfare that connects West Maui to the Central Valley.  Police and volunteers responded to the report in an effort to protect the animal from oncoming traffic. Maui Now.

Gov. David Ige on Wednesday announced the nomination of Mr. Lee A. Ohigashi to the Maui County seat on the State Land Use Commission for a term beginning June 21, 2017 and ending June 30, 2020. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate. Maui Now.

Kauai

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard will host a telephone town hall at 4 p.m. Monday on hurricane and disaster preparedness. Garden Island.

'Cool Schools' funds coming from green energy program, legislative leaders see rail as Honolulu's problem, $50M for Maui medical upgrades, Ellison to spend $75M on Lodge at Koele improvements, 3k free Oprah tickets from HSMA, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Ige visits school, courtesy photo

Gov. David Ige will sign a bill Thursday that pulls one-third of the money from the state’s dormant $150 million green energy loan program to help lower electric bills at Hawaii’s public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Board of Education members expressed frustration Tuesday that the Department of Education has yet to take advantage of a law passed four years ago authorizing development of underused public school lands to pay for campus upgrades. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Board of Education on Tuesday unanimously approved a plan to qualify for federal funding under the Every Student Succeeds Act, the Obama administration law that hands more control to the states for measuring student achievement. Civil Beat.

House Speaker Scott Saiki made it clear. The City of Honolulu is responsible for completing the rail transit project. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii on Tuesday filed a supplemental brief with the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing that a new memo issued by President Trump renders his controversial travel ban both unnecessary and unlawful. Hawaii News Now.

The CEO of Cardax Inc. said the selection  of the company's astaxanthin compound CDX-085 to take part in the National Institute on Aging's anti-aging interventions testing program will have positive implications for the Hawaii-based business. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

FBI probe investigating police chief now zeroing in on city prosecutor, too. Hawaii News Now.

The future of state deputy sheriffs at Honolulu's airport is unclear, but officials said they're committed to trying to work out a new deal. Hawaii News Now.

State transportation leaders say they want deputy sheriffs to keep working at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport — but that they’ll need to reach a new deal with public safety officials in the next six months to accomplish that. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is speaking out about its decision to release deputy sheriffs from patrols at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. KHON2.

Renters are the newest group trying to cash in on the profitability of Oahu’s vacation rental market by subleasing all or part of their units to visitors. Star-Advertiser.

A nonprofit organization that runs a state park on Kaneohe Bay is continuing to offer kayak rentals to paying customers of all ages despite being told to stop by the state. Civil Beat.

When enterococci bacteria levels go beyond a safe limit, the State Department of Health puts up signs warning beachgoers of the contamination. But, some environmentalists want an improvement in the warning system. Hawaii News Now.

New water-quality rules will affect developers, contractors, designers, businesses and homeowners planning to file grading or building permit applications, according to city officials. Star-Advertiser.

Authorities are investigating a diesel spill in the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. is seeking to cut energy consumption at three of its commercial buildings on Oahu through a partnership with energy efficiency company Carbon Lighthouse. Pacific Business News.

The Waikiki Aquarium is looking for marine life enthusiasts to share their passion and knowledge with young keiki. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

A former Kamehameha Schools Hawaii administrator is suing Kamehameha Schools, the trustees of the estate of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop and one of the school’s senior administrators, alleging she was wrongfully terminated after 23 years of employment. Tribune-Herald.

The Big Island community showed its aloha spirit when it came together to replace stolen swim gear donated to soldiers who train at Kawaihae harbor. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A health care provider plans to spend more than $50 million on three Maui hospitals in the biggest privatization effort in Hawaii history. Star-Advertiser.

HMSA and Sharecare are giving away 3,000 tickets to see Oprah Winfrey at a “Live Your Best Life” event Monday at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center to promote Sharecare’s health and wellness digital platform. Star-Advertiser.

Maui was ranked number four best places to visit, behind first place New York City, 2nd place Philadelphia, and third place Honolulu on a list compiled by US News and World Report. Maui Now.


Kauai

A mongoose--an unwelcome visitor--was reported on Kauai’s North Shore over the weekend, and it’s triggered an investigation from the Kauai Invasive Species Committee. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s new beach water quality monitoring program will be presented to the public at a meeting at 6 tonight at the state Department of Health Kauai District Health Office conference room. Garden Island.

Kauai Junior Lifeguard program nearly full. Garden Island.

Lanai

Pulama Lanai, the company created by billionaire Larry Ellison to manage his Hawaii operations including two Four Seasons Resorts on Lanai, plans to spend $75 million on an expansion and upgrade of The Lodge at Koele, which has been closed for two and a half years, that will reduce the hotel’s room count and expand its restaurant while adding spa and fitness facilities. Pacific Business News.

Pulama Lanai is seeking approval for a $75 million project to upgrade and “refresh” the nearly 25-acre Lodge at Koele, located northeast of Lanai City on Keomuku Highway. Maui News.

Thirty Meter Telescope case mulled by hearings officer, Native Hawaiians may lose federal funds, attorney general investigating state boating agency, Maui public works whistleblower sues, Kauai median home price hits $752k, new workforce housing slated for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Thirty Meter Telescope protestor, courtesy Occupy Hilo Media

Telescope case is now in judge’s hands. More than a year after she gaveled open the first pre-conference meeting of the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing, former Circuit Judge Riki May Amano must weigh the facts and make her recommendation to the state Board of Land and Natural Resources. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island Mayor Harry Kim says he continues to find receptive audiences for his vision of a Mauna Kea park more than six months after he promoted the concept during his inauguration. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Leaders Say State Is Under ‘Attack’ With Loss Of Federal Funds. The proposed re-authorization of a housing bill leaves out annual funding of up to $13 million for Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

A move to exclude Native Hawaiians from federal legislation that would reauthorize funding for native housing programs is being challenged by Hawaii’s congressional delegation. Big Island Video News.

The State is in the process of updating its Pesticide Rules for the first time since 2006. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fewer teens in Hawaii are getting pregnant, according to a national report released Tuesday, though the number of 3- and 4-year-olds attending school dropped and the state’s education performance still trails slightly behind national averages. Tribune-Herald.

United Airlines, which has more mainland flights to Hawaii than any other carrier, is increasing the frequency of its service on 11 routes from four cities. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Wonder Woman? Mazie Hirono is pretty wondrous herself. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

There's more opposition to the city's new Bikeshare Hawaii program as crews continue to install 100 docking stations from Chinatown to Diamond Head. Hawaii News Now.

The City Council has approved paying a Honolulu law firm up to $50,000 to represent a Honolulu Police Department detective in a civil lawsuit brought by a man who said he was unlawfully arrested and maliciously prosecuted by former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine, a Honolulu deputy prosecutor. Star-Advertiser.

Neighborhoods Benefit From Program Meant To Help Poor Communities. An oft-criticized federal immigrant investor program designed to create jobs in distressed areas is instead targeting thriving places like Kakaako and Ala Moana. Civil Beat.

After years of complaints, city crews dismantled two of the most volatile homeless camps on Oahu on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Crews with the state Department of Transportation were out Tuesday clearing sidewalks in Iwilei of homeless encampments. KHON2.

Hawaii energy industry stakeholders and the City and County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting have been working on improving the process for battery storage permits, and it has paid dividends. Pacific Business News.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort’s request for an easement to use state public shoreline for commercial enterprises such as beach activities and weddings has encountered community resistance. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. was issued a building permit worth $95,669,455 for electrical and plumbing work on its Ward Village Anaha luxury condominium tower, currently under construction at 1108 Auahi St. Pacific Business News.

A California court dismissed Volvo Car USA’s lawsuit against Envy Hawaii LLC, which operates as Volvo Cars Honolulu, citing the state as an improper venue for the lawsuit. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Investigations and complaints are piling up in a case involving a Keauhou Bay charter captain, a Department of Land and Natural Resources official and Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Board of Ethics again delayed their discussion on a draft order dismissing a petition by Edward Underwood on Tuesday due to a lack of quorum. Big Island Video News.

Kailua Bay remained closed to swimming activities Tuesday afternoon as work on a ruptured sewer line discovered Monday on Palani Road and Alii Drive continued. West Hawaii Today.

The hearings officer overseeing a contested case challenging the proposed development of a 306-unit timeshare will consider on Friday the county planning director’s request to reopen the public hearing on the issue. West Hawaii Today.

A tearful Jaylin Kema apologized to her family and community Tuesday, and a judge, despite expressed misgivings, sentenced her to 10 years probation for her role in the 1997 death of her son, "Peter Boy" Kema Jr. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Airlines said Tuesday it is seeking candidates who speak Japanese or English for customer and ramp service contract positions at Kona International Airport. Contract workers serve as Hawaiian employees who provide services to other airlines. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The former Maui County highways chief says in a federal whistleblower lawsuit that she was fired for reporting and investigating county worker abuses, including the repairing of private motor vehicles at county facilities on county time and with parts purchased using county pCards. Star-Advertiser.

An 8.8-acre property that includes old college dorms is being considered as a possible site for a county homeless or affordable rental facility. Maui News.

There’s a new workforce housing project in the works on Maui and this one involves rental units. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will award vacant lots in the homestead community of Kēōkea-Waiohuli on the Island of Maui this weekend. Maui Now.

The Hana Community Association has published a “Road to Hana Code of Conduct” as a first in its Hana Highway regulation initiative. Maui News.

Kauai

The Planning Commission’s work on the General Plan update is complete. On Tuesday, commissioners voted 4 to 2 to approve the seventh version of the General Plan Update, which restores Hokua Place, a proposed affordable housing development along Kapaa Bypass Road. Garden Island.

Many Kauai residents may not be able to afford homes here, but Realtors said out-of-state residents are buying. Garden Island.

Brandon Miranda received the green light to open a green waste facility in Moloaa. Garden Island.

Hawaii seeks teachers, lawmakers kill 'Styrofoam' bills, children test positive for lead, Waikiki surfer group opposes groin replacement, compost contract cancellation could cost $4M, Maui movie industry soaring, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii classroom, courtesy Hawaii Department of Education

Through March and April, the state Department of Education will travel to the Mainland to recruit teachers to the islands for the upcoming school year. Garden Island.

Committee Chairs Halt Bills To Ban Foam Food Containers. The prohibition continues to gain support from Hawaii environmentalists, but is effectively dead this session. Civil Beat.

2 state bills would compel candidates to air tax data. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Legislature is nearing the halfway point of the 2017 session. All bills have to pass out of their original chamber by Thursday. Associated Press.

About 1,800 infants and toddlers in Hawaii have tested positive for high lead levels in their blood in recent years, according to data compiled by the state Department of Health, indicating that lead exposure, which can cause permanent developmental disabilities, continues to be a problem in Hawaii years after the state set a goal of eliminating all cases of lead poisoning and decades after the country recognized it as a major health problem. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii now has some of the most severe penalties in the nation for people who are caught with drug paraphernalia, but House lawmakers are attempting to downgrade those paraphernalia offenses from felonies to civil violations that would result in fines and no prison time. Star-Advertiser.

State To Schools: Customize Your Hawaiian Education Approach. The Na Hopena A’o program encourages new approaches to helping students appreciate the “Hawaiian perspective.” Civil Beat.

Regulation of pregnancy clinics sought. Star-Advertiser.

Two bills taking on sunscreen move forward. Tribune-Herald.

Developers Weigh in On Solving Affordable Housing Crisis. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

A leading surfer group is mobilizing against a plan to replace the failing Royal Hawaiian Groin with a new structure that is about 10 times larger. Star-Advertiser.

A leading surfer group is speaking out against a state plan to replace a crucial groin in Waikiki with a new structure that is about 10 times larger, saying it will change the quality of the waves at the beach. Associated Press.

A state lawmaker says he has been unable get the Department of Land and Natural Resources to explain how $8 million in state funding was spent in support of the World Conservation Congress in Waikiki in September. Star-Advertiser.

Does The Justice Department Really Have A Case Against The Kealohas? Civil Beat.

City officials are seeking input on a new draft of the Oahu General Plan as part of a public review process that began several years ago. Star-Advertiser.

New Honolulu Housing Is For Artists Only. All 84 units at a publicly funded affordable housing complex in Kakaako will be reserved for artists. Civil Beat.

Two major power plants at Oahu's military bases could be in the works, Pacific Business News has learned.

Michaels Development Co., one of the largest private sector affordable housing owners and developers in the United States, is moving ahead on its long-planned affordable housing project in Kapolei in West Oahu, a company executive confirmed to Pacific Business News this week.

Koha Oriental Foods has been fined $100,000 by the state Department of Health for allegedly operating a food storage warehouse in Waipahu without a state permit from November 2015 to August. Star-Advertiser.

Fifteen black-footed albatross chicks have been imported from Midway Atoll to Kahuku to try to establish a breeding colony on Oahu’s North Shore, but any success won’t be evident for years. Star-Advertiser.

Fifteen black-footed albatross chicks have been moved from Midway Atoll to establish a breeding colony on Oahu's north shore. Associated Press.

American Savings Bank recently broke ground on its new headquarters. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

Hawaiian Earth Recycling isn’t going to let Hawaii County go scot-free after canceling its 10-year compost agreement. In a letter to county officials Wednesday, Senior Vice President John Brigham said the company would seek more than $4 million to cover expenses it incurred under the contract if Mayor Harry Kim’s termination notice isn’t rescinded. Tribune-Herald.

The county has filed a condemnation lawsuit aimed at gaining better public access to Papaikou Mill Beach via the only existing trail to the shoreline, which is on private property. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Island Board of Registration, which considers election disputes, erred when it refused to hear a Kapaau resident’s complaint about a candidate in the 2014 election, the state Supreme Court ruled Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, which measures and tracks earthquakes, reports 31 earthquakes were recorded over a period of 42 minutes on Sunday. Big Island Video News.

A water restriction notice for North Kona issued in January by the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply is expected to remain in effect indefinitely, an official with the department said. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County’s film and television industry is surging after raking in $15 million last year — far surpassing previous years — but the high cost of production compared to Oahu continues to be an impediment, according to the Maui County film commissioner. Maui News.

The location for Maui veterans’ long-awaited, one-stop shop for medical and psychological services will be selected in the next few months in a first-in-the-nation leasing arrangement for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Maui News.

Kauai

Councilmember JoAnn Yukimura wants to send a united message to the U.S. Postal Service: Keep the Lihue post office on Rice Street. Garden Island.

The county is adding sand at the north end of the Pono Kai Seawall in Kapaa, but concerns are being raised about the effect on coral reefs in the area. Garden Island.

Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers is suing one of its founders, Justin Britt, who is also the sole medical marijuana dispensary licensee on Kauai, over allegations he has put the company at risk by misappropriating funds and damaging the company’s reputation. Pacific Business News.

Ahukini Landing has been reopened after a little more than a month and people can now once again walk out onto the pier. Garden Island.

The spotlight is again falling on a bunch of noisy birds that have flocked to Kauai’s South Shore, as Hawaii recently celebrated Invasive Species Awareness Week. Garden Island.

Nearly 1,000 turn out for Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism spending up 10%, tax hike for teachers trimmed, raw milk rules sought, Oahu daycare deaths prompt legislation, Big Island bond rating improves, Kealoha's last day, Kauai fights mangroves, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki shoppers © 2017 All Hawaii News

A turnaround in the Japan tourism market and strong business from the U.S. mainland helped Hawaii’s visitor industry start the year with robust arrivals and spending. Star-Advertiser.

Spending by visitors to Hawaii jumped 10 percent last month compared to the same time a year earlier. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will spread $3.3 million of its product enrichment funding across 128 programs statewide. Star-Advertiser.

Legislation to tax investors and visitors to fund education advanced in the Senate today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Only investment homes valued at $2 million or more would be subject to a property tax surcharge earmarked for public schools under revisions legislators made Tuesday to a controversial tax proposal drafted by the teachers union. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to authorize Airbnb to collect state taxes from both legal and illegal vacation rentals when accepting bookings in Hawaii won tentative approval from the House Finance Committee on Tuesday after Gov. David Ige’s staff intervened to ask lawmakers to keep the measure alive. Star-Advertiser.

One day after the state health department ordered Meadow Gold Dairies to discontinue its distribution of 2% milk due to high levels of the bacteria, Hawaii locavores are pushing for more options, including the sale of raw milk. Hawaii News Now.

Legislation that would allow terminally ill Hawaii adults to receive medication to end their own lives is heading to the floor of the state Senate. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's Congressional Delegation Reacts to President's First Address. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin says he asked President Donald Trump to explain a ban on travel from seven Muslim-majority nations. Associated Press.

Almost four years after Hawaii lawmakers approved a bill to assure safe sleep practices at day cares, the Department of Human Services has adopted regulations requiring infants to be placed on their backs while napping and prohibiting soft bedding and bumpers thought to pose a hazard for sudden infant death syndrome. Civil Beat.

An online system for parents to keep track of their child’s school lunch account is finally being rolled out. KHON2.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. sold 451 condominiums and 611 acres of vacant land last year, but the cost to shut down Hawaii’s last sugar cane plantation pulled company earnings into negative territory for 2016. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu-based Alexander & Baldwin reported net income of $300,000, or 1 cent per diluted share, for the fourth quarter, compared to a net loss of $14 million, or 29 cents per diluted share, from 2015’s comparable period. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A threatening phone call that led to the closing and evacuation of the preschool at Hawaii’s largest synagogue Monday has been added to a larger probe involving threats against 20 Jewish schools and community centers across the mainland the same day and some 100 hate crimes against Jewish institutions since the beginning of 2017, officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Parents of children at an Ewa Beach day care where a toddler nearly died in an apparent assault were not informed about the incident, contrary to a recommendation from a panel of child abuse experts that reviewed the case. Civil Beat.

Three grieving mothers are pushing state lawmakers for changes to help prevent day care deaths. Hawaii News Now.

Parents: Baby sitter’s police ties stalled son’s abuse case. Associated Press.

Catholic Charities Housing Development Corp. has completed the first phase of its senior affordable rental housing development in Mililani Mauka, and has begun the second phase of the project. Pacific Business News.

Monsignor John Mbinda issued a double blessing Tuesday for a kupuna housing project’s first phase opening and second phase starting construction in Mililani Mauka where rent for residents is as low as $565 a month. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday was Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s last official day on the job. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha did not return to his office on Tuesday, his final day as the leader of the city's police force. Hawaii News Now.

Two Oahu residents have been charged in separate cases alleging theft of state accounts totaling more than $750,000. Star-Advertiser.

A Japanese wholesale food company that makes the Spam musubi sold at 7-Eleven stores in Hawaii has purchased Japan-based Fujifilm Corp.’s Hawaii regional office in Central Oahu, effectively ending the photography and imaging giant’s longtime run in the state, Pacific Business News has learned.

Hawaii

Hawaii County’s credit rating rose two notches Friday, when Fitch Ratings upgraded the county from AA- to AA+. West Hawaii Today.

Kahaluu Beach Park has been closed until further notice following the discharge of less than 100 gallons of wastewater onto the beach and beach waters, according to the state Department of Health’s Clean Water Branch. West Hawaii Today.

An upper-level disturbance is bringing some unsettled weather to the Hawaiian islands, including the potential for heavy snow and ice at Big Island summits. Hawaii News Now.

United Airlines will begin daily summer service between Denver, Colorado, and Kona starting in June. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Visitor arrivals on Maui increased 1.5 percent in January 2017 year-over-year, but a shorter length of stay resulted in no growth in visitor days. Maui Now.

Malassada Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Volunteers wage fight against mangrove, threat to Hawaii’s economy, environment. Garden Island.

Learn how to benefit from state and federal landowner-assistance programs that support private forest-restoration efforts in a landowners’ forestry workshop on Saturday, March 11, hosted by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Garden Island.

Jim Mayfield wants to switch Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s focus to pursuing an expansion of utility services, namely telecommunications and Wi-Fi. Garden Island.

Humpback whales show island preference, Senate leaders rebuke Honolulu over rail costs, lawmakers mull county share of hotel tax, bill requires gray water reuse, Meadow Gold milk recalled because of bacteria, Mauna Kea's future subject of closed-door meetings, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale breach, courtesy Kohala Sail & Sea, PC: Michael Faughn

Few humpback whales showed up to be counted Saturday at the Kauai sites of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count. Contrary to the other sites on Oahu and Hawaii island, Kauai counts were low. Garden Island.

A total of 984 humpback whale sightings were reported during the 2017 Great Whale Count on Maui over the weekend, including 544 pods (or groups of whales) and 88 calves. Maui Now.

Hawaii lawmakers might create a group to develop a way to collect data on how vacation rentals affect Hawaii’s tax revenue, housing supply and brand as a visitor destination. Associated Press.

The state Senate will vote on a bill boosting the counties’ share of the transient accommodations tax to $108 million a year. Currently, the counties share $103 million, an amount scheduled to decrease to $93 million next fiscal year. Tribune-Herald.

The House Finance Committee has scheduled a hearing Tuesday morning on House Bill 1586, which would phase out the counties’ share of transient accommodations over a three-year period and implement new income tax brackets and rates. Maui News.

Developers who want to construct buildings in Hawaii would have to install systems to reuse gray water under a bill in the Legislature. Associated Press.

The state is doubling down on its efforts to crack down on welfare cheats, or people who get more than their fair share of the benefits meant to help those in need. KHON2.

The state Department of Health ordered Meadow Gold Dairies to stop selling its 2 percent reduced-fat milk because of signs of potential contamination. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Health issued a cease and desist order to Meadow Gold Dairies on Monday to halt its distribution and sale of 2-percent reduced fat milk after lab results from routine milk samples exceeded standard limits for coliform bacteria. Pacific Business News.

Just one-fifth of the classrooms Gov. David Ige pledged to air condition by the start of 2017 have been completed. Civil Beat.

The number of permitted solar systems on the neighbor islands continues to slide. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines says it has become the first U.S. airline to join an international research project on climate change and air quality. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s David Ige joined a bipartisan group of governors Monday at a press conference to discuss the needs of their states. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Senate leaders delivered Honolulu’s mayor and those overseeing the city’s troubled rail project a harsh rebuke Monday when they advanced a measure that aims to help finish building the transit system without another tax extension. Star-Advertiser.

Wielding a scalpel the size of an axe, the Hawaii Senate’s budget committee on Monday sliced off scores of pages from a bill intended to help Honolulu fund its troubled rail project. Civil Beat.

An 11th hour call to bring rail down to street level has lawmakers wanting to know if it’s possible. KITV.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha today officially closes out a 33-year career, his seven years at the top now overshadowed by a federal investigation into conspiracy and corruption. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department says it doesn't have the money for key programs, but is letting $12M sit idle in the bank. Hawaii News Now.

Two Oahu residents were charged last Friday in separate incidents of alleged theft from State of Hawaii accounts. West Hawaii Today.

Embattled owners of 'no-kill' animal shelter in Makaha deny abusing animals. Hawaii News Now.

The Pacific Beach Hotel has hired six new employees for leadership positions within the hotel as part of its $115 million renovation and rebranding as the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, to be completed by this fall. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A process to form a vision for the future of Mauna Kea is starting to take shape. A 10-member committee, known as the Hui Ho‘olohe, will begin receiving feedback from Hawaii Island residents next month, said Friends of the Future executive team leader Susan Maddox, who is managing the process. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim convened a meeting last week with Hawaii County Civil Defense and officials at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to discuss how to better protect visitors to Kilauea’s 61g lava flow, currently the most popular tourist attraction in the state. West Hawaii Today.

Persistent records requests from three Kailua-Kona residents have put state and county agencies on the defensive, leading to attempts to clamp down on those they think ask for too much information. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii island boat owner faces a state fine of $10,000 as the Coast Guard has stepped up enforcement in response to an apparent increase in illegal charters drawn to the Kilauea Volcano lava gushing into the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

A young pueo (Hawaiian short-eared owl) was euthanized after being flown to the Big Island last week. The decision was made by wildlife biologists from the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife and was made to prevent the bird’s continuing suffering. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

As wind farms statewide are killing more Hawaiian hoary bats than expected, a Maui wind farm is asking the state to increase the amount of endangered bats and nene it’s allowed to incidentally kill. Maui News.

Kauai

The United States Navy wants to take advantage of the sun on Kauai’s Westside by installing a 44-megawatt solar array and a battery storage facility on 180 acres at the Pacific Missile Range Facility. Garden Island.

The Navy wants to power up what could be one of the largest solar farms in the state at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, where ongoing missile testing requires unwavering power for flight tests that process huge amounts of data. Star-Advertiser.

If elected to serve on the board of directors of the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, Hermina Morita promises to use her experience in policy making to ensure the co-op thrives. Garden Island.

If elected to serve on the board of directors for Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, Norma Doctor Sparks wants to focus on how the co-op helps residents recover from natural disasters. Garden Island.

Hawaii officials say an invasive parakeet is causing health and environmental problems on Kauai. Associated Press.

Endangered monk seal population recovering, Zuckerberg reconsiders neighbor stance, OHA airs gripes at public meeting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monk seal at Five Fathom Pinnacle, Hawaii, courtesy Kent Backman

Scientists and government officials delivered some rare good news Tuesday about one of the world’s most endangered animals, the Hawaiian monk seal. Civil Beat.

The population of Hawaiian monk seals — one of the world’s most critically endangered marine mammals — has been increasing 3 percent a year for the past three years, federal wildlife officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents who have been waiting 16 years for a legal place to buy medical marijuana will have to wait at least several more months. But as of next week, their medicine can start growing. Civil Beat.

The chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on Tuesday addressed dozens of allegations of human resource violations filed against her by OHA employees. Civil Beat.

The Department of Education is installing cameras on buses to keep track of students even when they’re out of the classroom. KHON2.

Lawmaker wants DOE to standardize concussion evaluation. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Board of Water Supply crews this morning have repaired the 24-inch water main that broke on Kalanianaole Highway early Saturday. Officials expect all eastbound lanes to be open by noon Wednesday, the agency said. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu's acting police chief is opposed to using $250,000 in police department funds for a severance payment to outgoing Police Chief Louis Kealoha, according to a letter obtained by Hawaii News Now.

Retiring Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s $250,000 severance payment isn’t sitting well with his acting successor. Civil Beat.

House Bill 148, introduced by Rep. Gregg Takayama, D, Pearl City, Waimalu, Pacific Palisades, would allow single-occupant vehicles to use the Zipper Lane for a $1 fee. KHON2.

A state lawmaker plans to introduce a bill on Wednesday to take the next step in redeveloping the Aloha Stadium area. Hawaii News Now.

IHOP is expanding a new restaurant concept called "IHOP Fresh & Go" in Hawaii, which will become the first of its kind in the United States, the franchiseee for IHOP in the state confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council moved no closer to passing new limits on buying alcohol with public funds after a second round of discussion Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

George Yokoyama, community organizer, grant writer and fundraiser, political kingmaker — and Living Treasure of Hawaii — died Sunday at Hospice of Hilo Pohai Malama Care Center following a brief illness. He was 90. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Oceanic Technology Inc., a Honolulu-based open ocean fish farming technology company, has shut down after nearly a decade in business, Pacific Business News has learned.

Maui

In his State of the State address Monday, Gov. David Ige touted the state’s efforts to combat homelessness, saying that more beds for homeless people are being created through a new contract process — a statement contradicted by Maui shelter officials last week. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park visitors are being reminded that the National Park Service’s new reservation system for sunrise viewing will begin Feb. 1. Maui News.

Kamehameha Schools buys Wailuku building. Maui News.

Kamehameha Schools has acquired the former office building of the Wailuku Federal Credit Union on Maui that will be turned into the Maui regional office and community resource center for the state’s largest private landowner, the $11 billion educational-focused trust said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Mark Zuckerberg announced today through a spokesman that he is “reconsidering” his quiet title lawsuits filed recently against hundreds of owners or potential owners of land on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says he is reconsidering his actions involving quiet title cases on Kauai after filing several lawsuits against kuleana land owners. Maui Now.

Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg says he wants to be a good neighbor, but Naoshi Grady didn’t feel any aloha when he says he was harassed and intimidated while using a coastal trail that passes through the billionaire’s 700-acre property on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

EPA, Matson reach settlement on molasses spill, Zuckerberg takes to Facebook to dispute Kauai stories, Innocence Project takes on Dana Ireland murder case, last sugar company equipment draw interested buyers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor, KHON2 screenshot

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement today with Matson Terminals Inc. for the company’s 1,400-ton molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor in 2013. Associated Press.

Honolulu-based Matson Inc. has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $725,000 to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over federal Clean Water Act violations relating to a molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor in 2013. This follows a July 2015, settlement, in which Matson (NYSE: MATX) paid $15.4 million to the state of Hawaii over the spill. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement Thursday with the company responsible for a 1,400-ton molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor in 2013. Associated Press.

The state has offered public school teachers an annual 1 percent lump-sum bonus that the teachers union called an unacceptable and “paltry” offer in an internal email sent to members Thursday night. Star-Advertiser.

House Finance Chairwoman Sylvia Luke is demanding that state financial and computer experts investigate a massive $59 million project to replace the computer systems in the state Tax Department, saying components of the new system don’t work properly. Star-Advertiser.

More than half of the doctors in Hawaii will reach the retirement age of 65 within the next decade, according to a new report submitted Thursday to the state Legislature.  Tribune-Herald.

Faced with the anti-regulatory zeal of the incoming Trump administration, members of Hawaii’s all-Democratic congressional delegation are finding themselves in the difficult position of choosing when to fight and when to retreat. Civil Beat.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook for almost $200,000 for lost dentures at a hospital, missing property at a prison, potholes damaging vehicles and a school ceiling falling on a student, among dozens of other small claims over the past year. Civil Beat.

Prison officials told state legislators Thursday that about 15 percent of their pre-trial inmates are homeless. But advocates and lawmakers immediately disputed that figure as too low. Hawaii News Now.

Included in President Barack Obama's Thursday clemency list were three Hawaii inmates who had been convicted of meth-related offenses: Thaddeas Kulani Thomas Hall, of Waipahu; Alfred William Kemfort, of Maui; and Allan Aquino Lafuente, of Kapolei. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate declined for the fifth straight month and hit 2.9 percent in December, the lowest level since September 2007, according to data released today by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiʻi State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations today announced that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for December was 2.9 percent, compared to 3.0 percent in November. Maui Now.

The Hawaii Venture Capital Association announced the finalists in 12 categories honoring local entrepreneurs. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Iolani School announced Thursday that it will build a high school dormitory to foster global connections for its students and will expand its elementary school with new classrooms, science labs and music studios. Star-Advertiser.

Iolani School expansion forces nearby residents to move out. Hawaii News  Now.

A church is prohibiting gay and transgender couples from attending its annual Sweethearts Banquet at the federally owned Hale Koa Hotel, even though state law bans discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in public venues. Civil Beat.

Another Oahu rail official has left the project. Diane Arakaki resigned and departed as the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s chief financial officer on Dec. 15, according to the rail agency’s latest monthly status report. Arakaki was HART’s CFO for more than four years. Star-Advertiser.

Why One Police Commissioner Wanted To Fire The Chief. Commissioner Loretta Sheehan was outvoted by the other commissioners but presented them with a detailed plan for moving to fire the chief. Civil Beat.

The date is set for Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha's retirement. The police commission will now turn its attention to hiring his replacement. KITV4.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Innocence Project filed a motion this week to take another look at the Dana Ireland murder case. KHON2.


With uncertainty over the nation’s health care system, the president and chief operating officer of the state’s largest insurer said he’s keeping an eye on how policy changes could affect coverage in Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Construction crews this week began work on new acceleration and deceleration lanes at the entrance to the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s Agricultural Farm Laboratory, located near mile marker 6 on Highway 11..Tribune-Herald


Maui

It was standing room only for the more than 250 people at the Maui Beach Hotel on Wednesday who crammed into a hotel ballroom to try and fetch a good deal on Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co.’s red pickup trucks, small farming equipment, machine shop items and even microscopes and scales. Maui News.

The state Land Use Commission unanimously approved the final environmental statement for the 1,433-unit, residential mixed-use Waikapu Country Town project Wednesday, after residents spoke highly of both the project and developer Mike Atherton. Maui News.

Kauai

A new Hawaii law dealing with land ownership that went into effect on Jan. 1 was likely the reason why Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg filed the “quiet title” actions on his 700 acres of Kauai oceanfront land just before the start of 2017, a Honolulu real estate attorney tells Pacific Business News.

The CEO and head of Facebook says eight lawsuits involving about a dozen parcels of kuleana land on his 700-acre property are to identify owners and compensate them adequately. Garden Island.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed — for the first time — what he plans to do with his roughly 700 acres of undeveloped oceanfront land he purchased a few years ago on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai. Pacific Business News.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg used his own social media platform today to explain his effort in court to acquire several small pieces of land on Kauai from Hawaii families. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg issued a response to the "misleading stories" going around about his plans in Hawaii. KITV

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is in a legal battle and wants to clear things up. KHON2.

Hawaii Legislature opens 2017 session: news coverage, speech transcripts, photos. Honolulu Police Chief paid $250k to leave, Tulsi Gabbard goes to Syria, Facebook's Zuckerberg tries to oust Kauai families, pay raises all around, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Opening day Hawaii Legislature, courtesy Robert D. Harris

Several hundred people gathered at the state Capitol in downtown Honolulu on Wednesday morning to kick off the opening of this year’s legislative session, in which lawmakers are expecting spirited debates on issues of rail financing, “death with dignity,” overcrowded jails, affordable housing and the state’s ongoing homeless problem. Star-Advertiser.

Lei-draped lawmakers sang Hawaiian songs and snapped photos as the Hawaii Legislature began its 2017 session, and they vowed to tackle homelessness, housing, traffic and the issue of aid in dying. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers returned to the state capitol Wednesday morning to gavel in for the 2017 legislative session. KITV.

Speech transcript: House Speaker Joe Souki.

Speech transcript: House Minority Leader Beth Fukumoto.

Blog post: Hawaii Senate Majority.

For the first time in decades, the state Senate opened the legislative session on Wednesday without a single Republican. Hawaii News Now.

Photos: The Hawaii Legislature Is Back In Business. Civil Beat.

The leader of the Hawaii State Senate promised on opening day of the 2017 Legislature that the issue of paying for Honolulu’s rail system will be concluded before the session ends in early May. Civil Beat.

Hawaii House Speaker Joe Souki opened his chamber’s 2017 legislative session Wednesday calling for an extension of the general excise tax surcharge to finance Honolulu’s rail transit project and a study looking at whether toll roads would help to reduce traffic congestion on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

In his opening day remarks, Speaker of the House Joseph M. Souki of Maui called on members of the House of Representatives to extend the general excise tax to finance rail, to find viable alternatives to prison incarceration and to provide human compassion to those who are mentally ill and terminally sick. Maui Now.

The Latest on the start of the 2017 session of the Hawaii Legislature. KITV.

Hawaii bill aims for 100 percent renewable transportation. Associated Press.

Biofuel crops are expected to play crucial role in Hawaii’s energy future. Tribune-Herald.

==================

Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has made an unannounced trip to Syria and Lebanon, traveling to the region two months after she sat down with President-elect Donald Trump to discuss foreign policy. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard traveled to Syria this week on what her aides described as a “fact-finding” mission relating to her efforts to bring resolution to a war that has torn the country apart and heightened tensions between the United States and Russia. Star-Advertiser.

As hundreds of Hawaii residents converge on the nation’s capital either to cheer or protest the inauguration of incoming President Donald J. Trump, the state’s two congresswomen are elsewhere. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Residents Journey To DC For Very Different Reasons. Some are here to celebrate a new direction for the country. Others will march for the preservation of women’s rights. Civil Beat.

A program in Hawaii that allows law enforcement officers to seize property that they suspect is related to the commission of a crime, without getting a conviction, this week has scored low marks from the Institute of Justice, a national civil liberties law firm, for falling short on transparency and accountability. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has settled a sexual harassment claim against OHA Trustee Peter Apo for $50,000, Hawaii News Now has learned.

Apo: Don’t Jump To Conclusions. The OHA trustee speaks out after a news report that he settled a sexual harassment claim. Civil Beat.

A group of NASA-funded researchers are poised to enter an isolated geodesic dome on a remote Hawaii volcano to study human behavior in long-term space exploration, including a planned voyage to Mars. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city will pay $250,000 to embattled Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha to leave at the end of February under a “retirement agreement” approved by the Honolulu Police Commission on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, who is under investigation for public corruption, will receive a $250,000 cash payment as part of a retirement deal he cut Wednesday with the Honolulu Police Commission. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Commission agreed to a $250,000 settlement package for retirement with Police Chief Louis Kealoha, the target of a federal investigation involving allegations of civil rights abuses and corruption. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Police Commission approved a $250,000 payout deal for embattled Police Chief Louis Kealoha on Wednesday. But in an apparent nod to community concerns over the plan, Kealoha will have to pay back the money if he's convicted in an ongoing federal public corruption probe. Hawaii News Now.

Chief Kealoha’s retirement deal did not need the city council’s approval. KHON2.

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Honolulu inflation doubled to 2 percent last year despite lower energy costs as consumer prices rose at the fastest pace since 2012. Star-Advertiser.

A new proposal to build more homes on the North Shore is drawing criticism. KHON2.

About 400 volunteers have signed up to count Oahu’s homeless population next week, and the organizer of the annual homeless census said she believes that’s enough people to get a good picture. Star-Advertiser.

Japan’s Watabe Wedding Corp., one of the largest wedding services companies in Hawaii, has purchased Michel’s at the Colony Surf in Waikiki, one of the most popular high-end restaurants in the Islands for more than five decades, the head of Watabe’s Hawaii branch confirmed to Pacific Business News Wednesday.

Hawaii

Top-to-bottom raises are being considered for county officials and employees, despite a hiring freeze as fixed costs for retirees take a bigger chunk out of the county budget. West Hawaii Today.

A need for a public shooting range on the Big Island drew a standing-room only crowd to a Tuesday evening meeting in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Two Maui nonprofits that work with homeless people received a total of $4.4 million from the state for an upcoming 18-month period, at the same time they must adjust to the state’s new “housing first” paradigm for homelessness. Maui News.

The Pa’ina building, one of University of Hawaii Maui College’s most used facilities, suffers from construction and design deficiencies and is in need of major repairs, officials said. Maui News.

More than 400 lots of items from Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co., including pickup trucks, machine shop and welding items and John Deere equipment, will be auctioned beginning today. Maui News.

Kauai

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who paid north of $100 million for hundreds of acres of undeveloped oceanfront land on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai’s North Shore, is making some moves to build at least one home on the land he acquired nearly three years ago, Pacific Business News has learned.

The owner of Facebook has filed several lawsuits with three of his companies to acquire about a dozen parcels of kuleana land on his $100 million property, sources close with Mark Zuckerberg confirmed with The Garden Island Wednesday.

After nearly two years of evaluation and technical work by experts, Hawaii Dairy Farms has submitted its Final Environmental Impact Statement to the State of Hawaii Department of Health. Garden Island.