Hawaii Supreme Court to hear habeas corpus case for zoo elephants, financial help for families hosting hurricane victims, landfill concerns on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Supreme Court to hear case on habeas corpus and the Honolulu Zoo. It’s time to talk about the elephants in the room. On Nov. 9th, an argument will be heard by the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on the legality of  confinement of the Honolulu's two elephants. It’s the first time a state supreme court has considered a case like this. Hawaii Public Radio.

DLE plans new license plate recognition cameras amid privacy concerns. The state of Hawaii is preparing to install potentially hundreds of surveillance cameras on several islands, raising privacy concerns over how the technology could be used. The cameras will use automated license plate recognition, or ALPR, technology, according to Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement Director Jared Redulla. Hawaii News Now. KITV4. 

2nd District candidates agree: military should provide more housing in Hawaii. Republican state Sen. Brenton Awa and Democrat incumbent U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda are running for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. They have different strategies for getting help from Washington for housing, but agree on one big target: the military. Hawaii News Now.

New program provides financial help to Hawaiʻi families hosting storm-displaced residents. Hawaiian Council has launched a statewide program to provide financial assistance to Hawaiʻi households hosting friends, relatives, and neighbors displaced by recent storms, including Hurricanes Lala and Lowell. Big Island Now. Hawaii Public Radio. 

Hawaii health officials urge flu shots amid rising cases. Hawaii’s flu cases are on the rise, prompting health officials to remind residents to get vaccinated during fall respiratory virus season. The Hawaii Department of Health said 20.3% of specimens tested positive for influenza in the last week of September compared with 11% in mid-September. Star-Advertiser.

What soaring travel costs means for Hawaiʻi's teetering tourist industry. The state just released its most recent visitor numbers, and the data shows a decline in both overall visitor numbers and total spending by visitors since 2025. Hawaii Public Radio.

UH holds first hearing on proposed new tuition schedule. Tuition needs to be raised to keep up with inflation. That was the message at the University of Hawaii’s first public hearing on the proposed new tuition schedule for the ten-campus system. KHON2.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council to review Ala Moana development plan. A conceptual plan for a proposed 400-foot luxury hotel tower, a 200-foot residential tower and 69 affordable rental units at Ala Moana Center is up for possible Honolulu City Council adoption today. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu single-family home price weakened in September. The median resale price for Oahu single-family homes dipped in September to its lowest point for any month this year amid more demand from buyers as average interest rates rose above 7%. Previously owned single-family homes on the island sold for a median $1,110,000 last month, down 3.9% from $1,155,000 a year earlier, according to a Honolulu Board of Realtors report released Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

City says work on controversial zip line in Laie began without a permit. A tour company that started building a zip line in Laie without the city’s permission is trying again to win over its critics. The Department of Planning and Permitting confirmed CLIMB Works did not have a grading permit and building violations needed to be corrected.  Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Tower centennial celebration planned, observation deck to reopen. The Aloha Tower observation deck will reopen after a major upgrade that includes both interior and exterior renovations. KHON2.

Concerns over extended hours for some Oahu bars. Numerous fights are documented on social media in the early-morning hours on Lewers Street, where some bars are open until 4 a.m. That's the fear some, including the Honolulu Police Department, has with the Honolulu Liquor Commission's pilot program now allowing bars to apply for a special license to close at 4 a.m. instead of 2 a.m. on special occasions. KITV4.

Hawaii Island 

Hilo judge overrules planning commission, grants permit for Keaukaha apartment complex. A court has overturned a 2024 Windward Planning Commission decision denying a Special Management Area Use Permit to a Houston developer for a proposed 17-unit affordable workforce apartment complex in Hilo. The project proposal is a for a four-story, 41,000-square-foot apartment building in Keaukaha containing 17 rental units on a 0.445-acre parcel sandwiched between Kalaniana‘ole Street and Apapane Road, with entry on Kalaniana‘ole about 350 feet southwest of Onekahakaha Road. Tribune-Herald.

Bill 147 returns, gets negative recommendation from council committee. After several months and multiple deferrals, Hawaii County Council Bill 147 has advanced, albeit with an unfavorable recommendation from the council’s Policy Committee on Planning, Land Use and Economic Development, which discussed the measure at its meeting Tuesday. Introduced by Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball, the bill would refine and make changes to regulations for vacation rentals on the island. Tribune-Herald.

Back to school: Nāʻālehu Elementary campus to reopen next week. It's been nearly 2 months since the school was extensively flooded and damaged by Hurricane Lala; now, with repairs complete and having to temporarily relocate to Ka‘ū District Gym in Pāhala, teachers and administration 'cannot wait to be back at school.' Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

Maui

Reconstruction begins on 60 homes on Front Street in Lahaina. A groundbreaking ceremony Friday marked the start of construction of Lahaina Residential on Front Street, where 60 homes destroyed in the August 2023 wildfire will be rebuilt. Maui News.

Community meeting on Nāʻālehu Interim Disaster Housing to assist those displaced by Hurricane Lala. The project will provide 12 two-bedroom, one-bath homes on a site next to the library. After the disaster recovery period, the homes will be used as interim workforce housing for educators and clinicians. Maui Now.

King Kamehameha III School rebuild on Lahaina meeting agenda. Updates on efforts to rebuild King Kamehameha III Elementary School are on the agenda for the next Lahaina Community Meeting on Oct. 7. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauaʻi could ban the construction of a new landfill in Kekaha area. The Kauaʻi County Council could ensure that communities on the island share the burden of hosting their landfill. The island’s Kekaha Landfill is expected to reach capacity in 2030, and the search for a new landfill site is underway. A proposed county bill would not allow new landfills within a six-mile radius of one that has accepted waste in the last 30 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauaʻi County accepts $100,000 IT services donation to repair damage caused by Kapule Building fire. Kauaʻi County Council has embraced a pivotal $100,000 donation from Constructive Construction Management LLC to rejuvenate county computer systems impaired by the Kapule Building fire. Kauai Now.

Housing shortage driving poverty, US pulls last aircraft carrier from Pacific, Honolulu bars can stay open until 4 a.m., woman faces federal charges in $5.2M Kona coffee scam, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Housing Shortage Driving Poverty In Hawaiʻi More Than Anywhere. A new study says lowering rents could substantially cut poverty in the Aloha State. The study found that as of three years ago, 34% of the state’s poverty was due to housing costs. Civil Beat.

Supreme Court climate change case could set precedent for Hawaii challenges. U.S. Supreme Court justices wrestled Monday with complex questions over whether to let local governments try to hold private oil companies liable for the harms caused by climate change — and their decision could have large impacts on Hawaii’s own cases against fossil fuel producers. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. pulls its last aircraft carrier from the Pacific — what’s next for the region? The Asia Pacific currently does not have a U.S. aircraft carrier in the region — how important is that, and what sort of signal does it send? Hawaii Public Radio.

Tokuda, Awa split on potential Trump impeachment in race for 2nd District. State Sen. Brenton Awa acknowledges he is a significant underdog in his campaign to unseat U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda in Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. Tokuda declined a televised debate with Awa, so Hawaii News Now interviewed both candidates separately on where they stand. Hawaii News Now.

Low Test Scores: For Hawaiʻi High Schoolers, The Math Isn’t Mathing. Elementary schoolers do OK in math, but by junior year, many students start falling behind. Educators say they need to catch struggling students earlier.  Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii launches single application for all campuses. The UH system has launched ApplyHawaii, a new undergraduate application that allows students to apply to any of the university system’s 10 campuses through a single application. Star-Advertiser.

Three Finalists Announced For New Office of Hawaiian Affairs CEO. Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs have selected Todd Apo, Kaulana Park and Summer Sylva as finalists for the role of the office’s administrator in charge of advancing OHA’s mission of bettering the condition of Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. 

Letters reveal price, policy changes for 16,000 HMSA Medicare Advantage members. About 16,000 HMSA Medicare Advantage members will need to choose a new plan for 2027 after changes to two of the company’s plans. HMSA’s Complete Plus and Standard Plus plans will no longer be offered after December 31.KITV4.

Oahu

Honolulu Liquor Commission seeks new records-retention rules. The Honolulu Liquor Commission is seeking final City Council approval Wednesday of a new records-­retention schedule for public information requests and body-worn camera footage amid renewed litigation from a Chinatown nightclub alleging the commission violated a 2025 settlement by restricting public-records access, among other claims. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu bars can now apply to stay open until 4 a.m. during special occasions. The Honolulu Liquor Commission believes its pilot program pushing back closing time at bars is showing promise, but the Honolulu Police Department fears it may not have enough resources to handle rule-breaking patrons. The new license allows establishments to stay open until 4 a.m., instead of the usual 2 a.m., on special occasions only.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

Human teeth found at proposed Chick-fil-A site in Kailua. Two human teeth were discovered at the site of a proposed Chick-fil-A in Kailua. The teeth were found during an archaeological survey at the property near Hamakua Drive and Hahani St. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island woman to plead not guilty in Kona coffee case.  Patricia Johnson will plead not guilty Wednesday to charges outlined in a superseding indictment that accuses her of falsifying tax filings while earning more than $5.2 million selling “100% Kona coffee” that was sourced from foreign countries and bought in California and Washington. Star-Advertiser.

New leadership at NELHA means new visions about how to grow the agency. The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaiʻi Authority is filling the gaps in leadership it’s had for months — sparking discussion about how to grow the agency’s ocean-based energy and aquaculture output. NELHA has been without its top official since the death of former Executive Director Riley Saito in May. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island mayor offers timeline, cost estimates for Mokuola bridge rebuild. Mayor Kimo Alameda says work on a temporary pedestrian bridge could start as soon as January with access hopefully being restored by next summer. For the permanent rebuild, however, estimates are around $20 million, the mayor confirmed. Hawaii News Now.

Everything you need to know about the 2026 Ironman World Championship in Kona. The Ironman World Championship 2026 is back in Kona, with events underway throughout the week in West Hawai‘i. Big Island Now.

Plans in the works to rebuild Wild Ginger Hotel. The owners of the Wild Ginger Hotel in Hilo intend to rebuild the historic boutique hotel that was destroyed in a deadly fire almost a year ago, but there is resistance to their plans. Tribune-Herald.

Feral cats found shot to death on Banyan Drive. A woman who feeds cats on Banyan Drive, despite laws against doing so, said at least two cats — a mother and her kitten — were shot to death in late August, calling it “open season on innocent cats and their caretakers.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Court ruling clears way for payouts in $4B Maui wildfire settlement. Nearly 22,000 claimants are still waiting for their share of the $4 billion settlement, which has been delayed by a fight over attorneys fees. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County launches housing navigator program for wildfire survivors as state ends case management. Maui County began a housing navigator program Thursday for households affected by the August 2023 wildfires. It takes over case management services that the state had been providing, the county announced. Maui Now.

Maui to host LPGA 2027 LOTTE Championship at Kapalua. For the first time ever, the LPGA Tour’s 2027 LOTTE Championship will be held at the Plantation Course at Kapalua, officials announced on Monday. The LPGA Tour’s 2027 LOTTE Championship will occur from March 18 to March 21. KITV4.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Wildfire Resilience Bill Has Turned Into A ‘Fight Over Numbers’. Local contractors are putting forward vastly different estimates for how much the bill could increase construction costs.  Civil Beat.

Solomon Kanoho named Local Disaster Recovery and Mitigation Manager for Hurricane Lowell recovery. Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami has named Solomon Kanoho as the County of Kaua‘i’s Local Disaster Recovery and Mitigation Manager to lead the County’s recovery from Hurricane Lowell. In this role, Kanoho will coordinate recovery work across County departments, serve as the main point of contact for state, federal, and community partners, and report directly to the Mayor. Garden Island.

Hoomalu Ke Kai performs emergency coral restoration. When Hurricane Nolo brushed near Kauai on Sept. 7 and 8, damage from the storm surge and surf was caused along the South Shore and Westside of Kauai. The damage extended to beyond that which is still visible above the ocean surface. Garden Island.

Shortage of HI-5 redemption centers swelling state coffers, Cat 4 Hurricane Nolo remains well south of state, Papaikou resident fights proposed cell tower, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

HI-5 fund swells to $105 million as bottle redemptions decline. The state Department of Health now has over $100 million in a fund from an inefficient and inconvenient program created to boost beverage container recycling with refundable deposits paid by consumers. There is now $105 million in the Hawaii Deposit Beverage Container program fund held by the agency, up from $74 million near the end of last year as redemption rates fall in part due to not enough redemption centers and centers that aren’t very convenient for consumers to use. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

New rates for state Health Department’s deposit beverage container program take effect Oct. 1. The change is based on a segregated rate study conducted by Cascadia Consulting Group, which counted and weighed by hand a random sample of more than 145,000 HI-5 containers at centers across the state.  Big Island Now.

'Slow-moving trainwreck': Economist discusses Hawaiʻi's struggles with airfare and AI. Economist Paul Brewbaker is a principal of TZ Economics, a Hawaiʻi economics consulting group, and participated in a recent Hawaii Tourism Authority conference as a panelist. HPR spoke with Brewbaker to hear his thoughts as interest rates, tariffs and the cost of living all creep up. Hawaii Public Radio.

At Issue In Tokuda Vs. Awa: Who’s Better for Native Hawaiians? The rivals in this seat for Congress are both focused on Native Hawaiian homesteads, but have differences on that and several other issues. Civil Beat.

Deliberations continue in trial over former HTA exec Isaac Choy’s firing. A First Circuit Court jury is expected to return today for a second day of deliberations after hearing conflicting accounts of why former Hawai‘i Tourism Authority executive Isaac Choy lost his job with Choy’s attorney arguing he was retaliated against for whistleblowing and the state contending he was fired for workplace misconduct substantiated by an independent investigation. Star-Advertiser.

Invasive deer and other non-native animals are eating away Hawaiʻi’s ranchlands. Axis deer are responsible for the greatest losses of grass and hay on ranches across Hawaiʻi Island and Maui, according to the first study to measure grazing on the state’s rangelands. Maui Now.

Hurricane Nolo close to category 5 intensity, on track away from main Hawaiian islands. Hurricane Nolo is continuing to strengthen and is forecast to become a category 5 system Monday as it moves to the west-northwest. The National Hurricane Center said at 2 a.m. Monday, Nolo was 405 miles southwest of Honolulu, or 565 miles south-southeast of French Frigate Shoals, and was moving to the west-northwest at 12 miles per hour. Hawaii News Now.

Nolo spares Big Island, but outages hit Oahu and Maui. Hurricane Nolo continued to pass farther south of the Hawaiian Islands, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the state, flooding roads on Hawaii island and prompting five high-water rescues as emergency crews worked through Sunday to respond to storm impacts. Star-Advertiser.

$830,000 in debt forgiveness available for Hawai‘i residents after settlement. Multi-state settlement with Credit Acceptance Corp. offers Hawai‘i borrowers a piece of a $694 million pie. Aloha State Daily.

Oahu

Supreme Court Ruling On Disputed Election May Conflict With State Law. The high court struck down a state-ordered election in House District 43 resulting from a lauhala basket tiebreaker. The remedy is now being called into question. Civil Beat.

Candidates vying for West Oahu Senate seat have sharply different views. It’s a race between former Republican House Rep. Bob McDermott, and first-time Democratic candidate Markus Owens, a former University of Hawaii and San Francisco Giants minor league baseball player and UH baseball radio and television color analyst. Star-Advertiser.

HART reviews tentative $652M budget next year. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation is proposing a preliminary $651.8 million budget for fiscal year 2028, which begins July 1, rail officials say. HART’s next budget would be about $417 million lower than the $1.07 billion spending plan adopted for the current fiscal year.  Star-Advertiser.

Another high rise could be coming to Oʻahu's skyline. A proposed project that would overhaul a part of the Ala Moana Shopping Center to add a 38-story hotel, as well as more than 200 residential units, is moving through the Honolulu City Council. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Latest Challenge For Honolulu Police: Hire More Women. Honolulu police signed a national pledge to increase the percentage of women in their ranks to 30% by 2030. Few departments have neared the mark. Civil Beat.

After Storms Blow, Humans Help Manu-o-Kū Return To The Trees. Honolulu’s official bird gets a little help from its friends. Civil Beat.

County and state officials lean into user fees. Ten years ago, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden in Kāneʻohe was a quiet, scenic greenspace set against the Koʻolau Mountains where residents could go to relax and enjoy nature. But today, there’s three times as many visitors to the Windward Oʻahu garden — 724,000 last year alone.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Papa‘ikou resident files appeal challenging cell tower. Patrick Ferreira, who lives next to the intended site of a new Verizon Wireless cell tower in Papa‘ikou, has filed an appeal challenging the project and requesting construction be halted. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Areas Reopen Following Hurricane Nolo. Most areas along Kīlauea summit, as well as the Kahuku Unit in Kaʻū, are now open. Big Island Video News.

$81,000 grant will expand access to low-cost dental services for North Hawaiʻi residents. Hāmākua-Kohala Health’s dental clinic in Waimea will be able to serve another 500 North Hawaiʻi residents with an $81,000 grant from the Hawaiʻi Dental Service Foundation. Big Island Now.

Maui

4 public schools in Lahaina to remain closed Monday.  Four Lahaina schools will remain closed Monday in the aftermath of Hurricane Nolo due to ongoing power outages, uncertainty surrounding the nearby Olowalu brush fire and concerns about maintaining reliable water service at the campuses, according to the state Department of Education. Star-Advertiser. Maui News. KITV4.

Thousands of HECO customers without power in West Maui due to strong winds. HECO said power outages for nearly 10,000 customers in West Maui could last until noon Monday. Power can't be restored until helicopters can fly safely to the ridge area above the Pāpalaua Wayside Park to complete transmission line damage assessments. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui News. 

Crews continue to battle Maui wildfire after blaze forces evacuations in Olowalu. Maui firefighters are battling a fast-moving brush fire that prompted an evacuation of Olowalu Village, as Honoapiilani Highway has reopened with limited visibility. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Building Division open, processing permits; storm repair guidance updated for flood zones. The County of Kaua‘i Building Division is open to the public and processing permit applications starting today. Garden Island.

Kauai North Shore residents concerned about sewage. Almost every property in Haena is on a cesspool system, according to the University of Hawaii’s cesspool prioritization tool, and most homeowners can’t afford the $20,000 to $50,000 bill to switch to another wastewater system. Star-Advertiser.

Federal shutdown cost state less than expected, Hawaii ranks high for senior health, Honolulu council passes immigrant rights measure, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Is A Great Place To Grow Old — But Only For Some. The high percentage of kūpuna who exercise regularly — along with Hawaiʻi’s good air and water quality and comparatively low rates of depression —  help make the state one of the healthiest places in the nation for seniors, according to a report from the United Health Foundation.  Civil Beat.

State funding during shutdown less than expected. Hawaii stepped in to provide a financial and food assistance lifeline during the record-long federal government shutdown and now expects to end up paying far less in state funds than expected. Star-Advertiser.

Ethics panel fines state Senator Brenton Awa. An ethics panel has reprimanded and fined state Sen. Brenton Awa for using state resources to encourage voters to elect his former office manager to the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Why Hawai’i Tenants Can Be Left Out To Dry By The State. Policymakers say it’s time to reassess a decades-old law that leaves the state’s consumer watchdog agency without teeth to protect tenants. Civil Beat.

Could Hawaiʻi's Japanese visitor market be making a comeback?  Visitors from Japan were up 16% in October — the second month in a row of solid growth — and visitor spending from Japan was up as well. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii ranks fifth nationally in early FAFSA filing. Hawaii high school seniors are filing for federal financial aid at one of the highest rates in the nation, according to new data released by the National College Attainment Network. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council OKs ‘constitutional rights’ measure. The Honolulu City Council is urging Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration to affirm the constitutional rights of all Oahu residents regardless of citizenship or immigration status. Star-Advertiser.

Council Member Accuses Mayor’s Administration Of Coercion Over Housing Vote. Council member Val Okimoto said a “senior administration official” threatened to withhold funding to her district, but she won’t say who did it. Civil Beat.

High stakes at Honolulu Hale: Who will lead Ocean Safety for the next 5 years? A packed room filled with current and former lifeguards, community members and city leaders, leaning in on the Ocean Safety Commission’s most important task in front of them – selecting a chief who will lead the brand new department for the next five years. KHON2.

Police shut down gambling operation in Ewa Beach. The gambling bust took place at a business located near Old Fort Weaver Road at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3. Honolulu Police Department officers from the Narcotics Vice Division executed a search warrant in which 18 gambling machines worth an estimated value of $155,000, along with $5,037 in cash were seized. KITV4.

Erosion fears prompt removal of 12 ironwood trees at Kailua Beach. Ironwood trees have been part of the Kailua Bay shoreline for years. But more and more of them are becoming casualties as the ocean eats away at the sand that’s beneath them. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Bond revoked for Hilo attorney Sulla. U.S. District Chief Magistrate Judge Kenneth Mansfield on Thursday found probable cause that Paul Sulla engaged in the unauthorized practice of law while free on bond, after being ordered to cease practice by the Hawaii Supreme Court on July 29. Tribune-Herald.

$1.9 Million Awarded For Puapuaʻa Iki Habitat Restoration. The project will restore 11.5 acres of coastal land and provide shoreline stabilization while protecting historic infrastructure on the site. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. 

Maui

Maui Emergency Management Agency wraps up work on monthslong wildfire risk reduction project. A wildfire risk-reduction project on county-owned land in West Maui led to the removal of 123 vehicles, more than 1,200 tires, 10 drums of oil, at least two pieces of heavy equipment and other debris. Maui News. Maui Now.

Bookkeeper’s ‘Miracle’ House listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Pioneer Mill Company/Lahaina Ice Company (PMCo/LICo) Bookkeeper’s House in Lahaina, more recently dubbed the “Miracle House” after the August 2023 wildfires on Maui, has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.  Maui Now. KHON2.

Lahaina fire-ravaged neighborhood to get new sewer system. The Environmental Protection Agency says it is almost finished designing the system to replace the cesspools or septic systems now used by 231 single-family properties. Hawaii News Now.

Pacific Whale Foundation removes more than 12,000 pounds of marine debris in 2025. The Pacific Whale Foundation, the designated Marine Debris Rapid Response partner for Maui Nui, is reporting more progress in its ongoing effort to remove harmful debris from local waters. Maui Now.

Kauai

Līhuʻe and Kapaʻa DMV offices to close for staff training next week. The Kaua‘i Division of Motor Vehicles will close its main Līhu‘e office and the recently opened Kapa‘a satellite location next week to allow for staff training, county officials announced. Both offices are scheduled to close on Wednesday, Dec. 10, and resume normal operations on Dec. 11. Kauai Now.

Kauai RSVP volunteers recognized, celebrated during annual luncheon. The Thursday gathering of more than 250 people at the Koloa Landing Resort came down to honoring and recognizing the volunteer time put forth by members of Kauai Retired &Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), an Americorps Seniors affiliate, and other community volunteers. Garden Island.

Green seeks $10B for use of military land, Hawaii teacher claims rights violation in Charlie Kirk discussion, Hawaii County Council delays vacation rental regs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Gov Wants $10 Billion From Feds For Military Land Leases. Gov. Josh Green wants to secure significant investments from the federal government for housing and environmental protection while also moving swiftly on a deal that would allow the Army to continue using thousands of acres of state land for training. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Teacher says DOE response to Charlie Kirk class discussion violates her rights. A conservative legal group has sent a demand letter to the state Department of Education because of a classroom discussion about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. A middle school history teacher at a Hawaiʻi public school alleges that the department violated her First Amendment right to free speech. Hawaii Public Radio.

At least 7 dead in ‘catastrophic’ fiery crash of Honolulu-bound UPS plane in Kentucky. A UPS cargo plane bound for Hawaii crashed and exploded in a massive fireball Tuesday while taking off from the company’s global aviation hub in Louisville, Kentucky, killing at least seven people and injuring 11, authorities said. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4. 

The University of Hawaii announced a temporary grace period for registration holds across all 10 campuses Tuesday. A letter from UH President Wendy Hensel said students can register for Spring 2026 even with unpaid Fall quarter balances. Hawaii News Now.

New hemp registration requirements coming in 2026. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation (OMCCR) is launching a statewide outreach and education campaign to help hemp retailers and distributors prepare for new registration requirements that take effect Jan. 1, 2026. Maui Now.

State Sen. Awa contests election ethics violation over social media video. The Hawaiʻi Ethics Commission is considering a violation against Oʻahu North Shore state Sen. Brenton Awa that could result in a nearly $1,000 fine. Awa appeared before the commission Monday to contest the violation regarding a video he posted on his official Instagram account. In issuing the violation notice, the commission said Awa's video used government resources for campaign purposes, which is against the law. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matson pays $6.4M in port fees to China since levies started. Honolulu-based ocean shipping company Matson Inc. has paid $6.4 million in port fees to China since they were implemented on Oct.14, CEO Matt Cox said Tuesday. Reuters.

Federal Cuts Mean Less Help For Hawai’i Domestic Violence Victims. Programs providing targeted outreach to Native Hawaiian and Filipino survivors are among those facing cuts. Civil Beat.

 1 dead, 1 sick from listeria infection in Hawaii. DOH said that the strain has been linked to prepared pasta meals that have since been recalled due to a potential listeria contamination — the source of the two Hawaii cases has yet to be determined. KHON2.

Oahu

Osprey command team relieved of duty. Maj. Gen. Marcus B. Annibale, commanding general of the Okinawa-based 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, relieved Lt. Col. Shaina M. Hennessey of her duties as commanding officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268, along with its senior enlisted leader Sgt. Maj. Jamie Lampley and the squadron’s unnamed executive officer. Star-Advertiser.

HPD using mounted license plate reading cameras in parts of Waikiki and Downtown. Honolulu Police have been using license plate reading cameras in their patrol cars for years. But they’ve recently started mounting them in fixed locations. And if police had their way, the cameras would be all over the island.  KHON2.

Uncertainty surrounding the distribution of SNAP benefits and ongoing furloughs during the government shutdown is causing multiple challenges for federal employees.  An Oʻahu food pantry added a day of distributions specifically for federal workers. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘Very painful,’ former Miss Hawaii fights to stop her husband from being deported.  With a cane in hand guiding her every step, former Miss Hawaii Cheryl Bartlett slowly walks along the garden of palms and hinahina she and her husband, Rogerio Araujo, grew together outside of their Makiki apartment.  Hawaii News Now.

Years of blight: Crumbling Waialae Ave home sparks safety fears. It’s one of the first homes you see driving into Kahala. Neighbors say the crumbling, overgrown property on Waialae Avenue has become a magnet for trouble, and they’re pleading for something to be done. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

County Council committee votes to delay start of STVRs law. A proposal to delay implementation of Hawaii County’s short-term vacation rental law until mid-2026 cleared a County Council committee Tuesday and now heads to the full council for final approval. Tribune-Herald.

State leaders support alternate Mauna Kea sites as option for Thirty Meter Telescope. Gov. Josh Green is pledging to help “promptly” establish a procedure to permit construction of a controversial telescope atop Mauna Kea on a site previously developed for observatory use. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Community College Sees Large Enrollment Increase. Hawaiʻi CC saw an enrollment of 2,489 students, an 8.7% rise, said to be one of the highest headcounts in years at the Hawaiʻi island-based college.  Big Island Video News.

BJ Penn charged with alleged assault of 45-year-old man outside Hilo residence. Hawai‘i Island police arrested and charged former UFC two-division champion 46-year-old Jay Dee “BJ” Penn of Hilo with third-degree assault following an incident early Tuesday morning (Nov. 4) in Hilo. Big Island Now. KITV4. 

Maui

Maui Council adopts dual track Kahului seat vacancy process, clashes over Bill 9 delay. The Maui County Council ended a contentious special meeting to determine a process to fill the vacancy left by the death of Council Member Tasha Kama with a final, tense 8-0 vote. Maui Now.

Maui’s King Kamehameha III school to reopen Wednesday. King Kamehameha III Elementary plans to reopen Wednesday after being closed Tuesday “out of an abundance of caution” due to Monday’s Kapalua wildfire which is now 100% contained. Star-Advertiser.

Maui fishers donate thousands of pounds of fish to feed hungry families. Fishers on 23 boats participated in the tournament, bringing in more than 4,800 pounds of fish, including marlin, mahi mahi, and ahi.  Hawaii News Now.

County of Maui seeking volunteers to serve on Boards and Commissions. Maui County boards and commissions need volunteers for more than 30 panels, including Liquor Control Commission, Maui Planning Commission, Police Commission, Salary Commission, Urban Design Review Board, Fire and Public Safety Commission and others. Maui Now.

Kauai

Mayor, county officials swear-in the county’s new attorney. Tyler Saito previously worked as a deputy county attorney and a deputy prosecuting attorney in the Kauaʻi Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. Kauai Now.

Mākua Beach Parking Woes May Be Eased Under Kauaʻi Mayor’s Plan. Parking has been a problem for decades at the main access point shared by Mākua Beach and Hāʻena Beach Park. An effort to fix it may be gaining momentum. Civil Beat.

Conservationists seek to reduce nēnē deaths on West Kauaʻi highway. The Mānā Plains Nēnē Project will focus on reducing car collisions with nēnē along a 5-mile stretch of Kaumualiʻi Highway in West Kauaʻi near the Kawaiʻele Waterbird Sanctuary. Hawaii Public Radio.

Green imposes spending limits on state departments, tax office going after noncompliant vacation rentals, Maui Councilmember Tasha Kama dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi’s Child Welfare Reform Efforts Bump Up Against Budget Fears. Gov. Josh Green has imposed spending restrictions on state departments, which means new money to help fix problems at CWS will be scarce next year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii braces for suspension of SNAP. Organizations devoted to helping financially strapped Hawaii families were scrambling Monday after the federal Food and Nutrition Service told states that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — or SNAP — will be suspended beginning Saturday because of the federal government shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

What to know about SNAP benefits and a $100M Hawaiʻi relief program. More than 160,000 Hawaiʻi residents received SNAP benefits totaling about $753 million throughout fiscal year 2024, according to the state Department of Human Services. Hawaii Public Radio. KITV4.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs sets aside $6.1 million for emergency relief amid federal government shutdown. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees approved $6.1 million in emergency funding for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries impacted by the shutdown of the federal government and the potential suspension of food assistance on Nov. 1. Kauai Now.

Republican State Sen. Brenton Awa to run for U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda's seat. Republican state Sen. Brenton Awa announced his run for Congress on Monday, putting him in the race for the second congressional district against incumbent Rep. Jill Tokuda, a Democrat. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. 

Alaska, Hawaiian airlines combining under a single operating certificate. The Federal Aviation Administration is expected to issue a single operating certificate to Alaska Airlines on Wednesday — a pivotal step in its merger with Hawaiian Airlines, which will mark the milestone with the appointment of a new CEO and several other major transitions to its Honolulu-based leadership team. Star-Advertiser.

State tax office on going after vacation rentals that skip out on TAT. The Conversation spoke to the state tax office about a recent legal notice listing the names of 18 people or entities that were in violation of the law by not disclosing their tax information in their advertising on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Mom Sues Boys & Girls Club For Not Protecting Child From Abuse. Staff members of a Boys & Girls Club after-school program in Honolulu did nothing to address reports that one student was bullying and sexually assaulting another young boy for nearly four months, according to a lawsuit filed by the boy’s mother.  Civil Beat.

City offers more $10K grants to rail-affected businesses. A new round of city-subsidized relief is being offered to eligible businesses impacted by construction of the more than $10-billion Skyline rail project’s Dillingham Boulevard corridor, Honolulu officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Popular luau to close after nearly 50 years. After 47 years of service, Paradise Cove will hold its final luau on New Year’s Eve. The luau’s parent company, PC Services, said 172 employees will lose their jobs.  Hawaii News Now.

Demolition begins as Kawaiahao Church prepares for reburial of ancestral remains. Kawaiahaʻo Church is preparing to rebury hundreds of skeletal remains that were dug up during a construction project 16 years ago, with demolition work beginning Tuesday.  Hawaii News Now.

Assaults on Honolulu officers up, what’s behind the trend? Assault on law enforcement officer (LEO) cases jumped in 2025 — up 20% compared to the same time in 2024. Most of the assaults occur during responses for intoxication, domestic or mental health-related calls. Interim chief Vanic said de-escalation is key. KHON2.

Teens who died while fishing identified as Waianae High School seniors. The boys who died are Maikah Hampp-Iriarte, 17, and Tony Siufanua, 17. The incident happened Saturday morning at Kaena Point. Friends say one of the boys was swept into the water and the other jumped in to help. They’re not sure who was in the water first. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of federal workers line up for free food in Kalihi as government shut down drags on. Hundreds of cars were lined up on Rose Street in Kalihi, federal workers in many cases going to work every day, but not getting paid. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

State proposes rules to reopen waters to aquarium fishing. The reopening of waters off Hawaii’s Kona coast to aquarium fishing took a step closer to reality after a state board decided to put forth a set of proposed rules for public hearings. The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday voted unanimously to approve the proposed rulings, a required step in the process of opening up waters again to the harvesting of fish from local waters to be sold as pets in saltwater aquariums worldwide. Star-Advertiser.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i County to host traffic safety vigil days after deadly Daniel K. Inouye Highway crash. Hawai‘i County and partners will be hosting a “Healing Our Highways” Traffic Safety Vigil and Remembrance Event this week just days after a two-vehicle crash on Daniel K. Inouye Highway left four injured and two people dead. Big Island Now. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi County police commissioners discuss hiring procedures for next chief. The Hawaiʻi County Police Commission discussed and voted on procedures for hiring the next police chief during Friday’s meeting. Big Island Now.

Waitlist opens for housing project in Waikōloa Village. Nonprofit developer Pacific Housing Assistance Corporation, through property manager Indigo Real Estate Services, will accept applications for both project-based voucher and non-project-based voucher units at Nā Hale Makoa till Nov. 17. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Council Member Tasha Kama, 73, Remembered For Life Of Service. Her death leaves a void on the ideologically split nine-member council as it confronts major housing policy decisions. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.  Hawaii Public Radio.  Maui News.  Maui Now. KITV4.

Final request: Kama asks Council to consider appointing Kauanoe Batangan as her successor. Seven-year Maui County Council Member Natalie “Tasha” Kama, who died Sunday night at Maui Memorial Medical Center, has asked fellow council members to appoint Kauanoe Batangan to serve out the remainder of her term. Maui Now.

Four Seasons Resort to seek permit for $16.3 million in exterior renovations and improvements. The Maui Planning Commission is scheduled to hold a public hearing tomorrow morning on a $16.3 million proposal for exterior renovations and improvements at the Four Seasons Resort Maui in Wailea. Maui Now.

Kauai

Dark Skies fall upon Pacific Missile Range Facility with mission to protect fledgling ʻaʻo, ʻuaʻu. Annual fledging of ʻaʻo, or Newell’s shearwaters, and ʻuaʻu, or Hawaiian petrels, on Kauaʻi, is underway and runs through Dec. 15 — a critical period for two of Hawai‘i’s most threatened seabirds. Kauai Now.

Nakamura set to become first female state House speaker, Republicans gain some legislative seats, state scrambles to finish counting ballots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Legislators To Name 1st Female House Speaker In Hawaii History. Nadine Nakamura is expected to be selected as part of a leadership reorganization Thursday. Lawmakers must vote to make it official when the next session begins. Civil Beat.

Senate leadership announced for upcoming 33rd Hawai‘i Legislative Biennium. Hawai‘i Senate President Ronald Kouchi on Wednesday, following Tuesday’s general election, announced the leadership and committee chairpersons for the upcoming 2025-26 Legislative Biennium. Big Island Now.

Reelected state Sen. Brenton Awa slated to become minority leader. For the last two years, the Republicans in the Senate – Awa and Leeward Oʻahu Sen. Kurt Fevella – have not been able to determine a leader.. However, westside Republican Samantha DeCorte secured her district in the general election on Tuesday, defeating Democratic House Rep. Cedric Gates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Republicans may be gaining seats in Legislature. As of Wednesday evening, House Republican Candidates Garner Shimizu, Chris Muraoka and Julie Reyes Oda are leading their Democratic opponents. Republican Senate candidate Samantha DeCorte is winning against Cedric Gates. KHON2. KITV4.

West Oahu House Race Looks Headed For A Recount. Republican Rep. Elijah Pierick has taken a 20-vote lead over Democratic challenger Corey Rosenlee, according to late election returns released Wednesday night. If the margin between the two stays under 24 votes, it’s likely headed to a recount under a new law passed by the Legislature this year. Civil Beat.

Big Island incumbents all retain seats in Legislature. the Big Island’s delegates in the state Legislature kept their seats Tuesday after cruising to easy victories. Tribune-Herald.

Kaua‘i Democrats defeat opponents in elections for state House seats. Incumbent candidates on Kaua‘i, all of whom are Democrats, defeated all Republican challengers in state-level races this election. Kauai Now.

Lines of mostly Republicans delay vote tally. Long lines of people — overwhelmingly Republicans — who exercised their right to vote in person and even register to vote all day and night Tuesday delayed the release of election votes past midnight Wednesday, the longest delay in Hawaii voting history, said Hawaii Elections Chief Scott Nago. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s What Local Republicans Say A Trump Presidency Will Mean For Hawaii. Trump supporters say a second term should bring peace and prosperity, a lower cost of living and help for Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council mulls veto override for fireworks bill. Adopted by a majority of the Council in early October to allow ground-level fountains and sparklers to be lit in public on Oahu by lifting the city’s partial fireworks ban, Bill 22 was formally vetoed by the mayor on Oct. 25. Star-Advertiser.

Elections officials apologize for voting delays, but will changes be made? Honolulu election officials are apologizing for long waits that left many voters standing in rain and darkness for hours on election night. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Will the Ala Wai pedestrian bridge be a debacle like HART? In response to continued interest from the Waikīkī, Mōʻiliʻili and McCully communities, the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is increasing opportunities for public input on the design of the Ala Pono Pedestrian Bridge (formerly known as the Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge).  KHON2.

Thousands oppose $1.5M proposed settlement of HPD deadly shooting lawsuit. Nearly 2,300 Hawaii residents do not want the city to pay $1.5 million to settle a deadly HPD shooting lawsuit. They’ve signed an online petition supporting officers who shot and killed Rugby star Lindani Myeni in 2021. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Changing of the guard: Alameda, Roth discuss outcome of the mayoral race. Kimo Alameda — a political newcomer who took a decisive victory over incumbent Mayor Mitch Roth in the election Tuesday and will become Hawaii County’s chief executive on Dec. 2 — said Wednesday that finding and assembling a team will be a priority. Tribune-Herald.

Hustace, Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder look ahead. Councilwoman Cindy Evans was ousted Tuesday by opponent James Hustace. Puna Councilman Matt Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder defeated incumbent Ikaika Rodenhurst with 57% of the vote. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County incumbents survive election despite voter frustration about Lahaina fire recovery, economy.  The only Maui race in which a challenger garnered at least 40% of the vote was the District 14 West Maui contest that incumbent Democratic Rep. Elle Cochran won with 51.3% of the vote to Republican Kelly Armstrong’s 40.4%, according to the third printout of results around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.  Maui Now.

Slight lead in Maui County Council race could spell big change. As of Wednesday morning, Maui County Council member Tom Cook held a narrow lead of less than 1% over biodiesel executive Kelly King in a race that could tip the scales on major issues involving hundreds of millions of dollars in future development. Maui News.

Maui Judge Peter Cahill: All Maui Wildfire Insurance Claims Must Be Made Public. Insurance companies have a month to make public lists of every insurance claim related to the wildfire that killed 102 people on Maui and destroyed much of Lahaina, including the amount of each claim, the amount actually paid out and the rationale for the payment.  Civil Beat.

Kauai

Holland, Kaneshiro join Kauai County Council. A tight battle for the final seat on the Kauai County Council ended with a newcomer knocking off an incumbent to join the seven-member governing body on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Technology Development Corp. awards $7.5M in grants, Waikiki beachgoers urged to take valuables into the water with them, Maui mayor pushes back against Air Force telescope plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Agency Gives Out Grants Worth Millions In Effort To Diversify Hawaii Economy. The Hawaii Technology Development Corp. refocuses on its core mission after a 2023 legislative session filled with drama and intrigue. Last week, the HTDC announced it had awarded 99 Small Business Innovation Research grants totaling $5.7 million for a range of companies to promote economic development. HTDC awarded another 62 grants totaling $1.8 million to support manufacturers, mostly food processors, brewers and distillers. Civil Beat.

1 in 5 Hawaii residents experience domestic violence, new study finds. A new study by the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence aims to raise awareness of the prevalence of intimate-partner violence in Hawaii and the hurdles to seeking help that survivors face. Star-Advertiser.

First-term state lawmaker Sen. Brenton Awa stands out as unconventional. Hawaii’s 76-member Legislature has eight Republican lawmakers, yet one of them in a certain respect has been a minority of one. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Green signs bill into law, making Kimchi Day official. Gov. Josh Green signed House Bill 1950 into law last month, designating Nov. 22 as “Kimchi Day” in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council votes to add additional $8M to pandemic hazard pay. The federal government gave the city $1.9 billion through the American Rescue Plan to alleviate the burden caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hawaii Public Radio.

Keith Kaneshiro describes prosecution as a grudge. Former prosecuting attorney Keith Kaneshiro said the federal investigation against him, prominent political donor Dennis Mitsunaga and four others began with a grudge and consumed eight years before a jury acquitted them in less than two days. Star-Advertiser.

North Shore Homeowners Face Fines Of Nearly $1 Million For Fighting Erosion Illegally. As the shoreline shrinks, some residents do everything they can to protect their homes — even breaking the law. Civil Beat.

New pilot project will help deter crime from popular Oahu scenic spots. The Honolulu City Council recently approved a resolution allowing the police department to use portable surveillance trailers with cameras, speakers and blue lights at these sites to deter crime. KHON2.

Low-income rental tower mostly vacant after October opening. Hawaii has long been in the throes of an affordable-­housing crisis, yet eight months after the opening of a rental apartment high-rise built at 1192 Alakea St. for people age 55 and older with low incomes, more than half the units are still vacant. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Army looks to renew major land leases on Oahu. The United States Army is looking to renew major land leases on Oahu and the public has the opportunity to weigh in on the plan. KHON2.

Lawsuit Filed Over Oahu Jail Suicide. The family of a 21-year-old woman who hanged herself while in prison at the Oahu Community Correctional Center has sued the state corrections department, alleging the agency failed to provide adequate mental health treatment despite two previous suicide attempts. Joycelyn Simeona says that the department's failure to provide her daughter with mental health services led directly to her suicide. Civil Beat.

Amid theft concerns, HPD urges beachgoers to bring valuables into the water with them. At a Waikiki Neighborhood Board meeting in April, HPD reported more than 160 thefts in the area that month. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Public meetings for 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan begin next month. The Consolidated Plan serves as a blueprint ensuring communities receiving federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development assistance address the housing and related needs of low- and moderate-income families. Big Island Now.

Future of Prince Kuhio Plaza still in limbo. The chairman of the Hawaiian Homes Commission last month told the manager of Prince Kuhio Plaza that if a 40-year lease extension the mall is seeking is to be granted, PKP and its parent company, Brookfield Properties, will have to improve its benefits package for Native Hawaiians. Tribune-Herald.

County seeks to obtain land for Pohoiki Road widening via eminent domain. The manager of a pair of parcels in lower Puna is resisting a plan by Hawaii County to seize portions of that land in order to begin reopening Pohoiki Road. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Can’t Seem To Keep A County Finance Director On The Job. The lack of stability in a key position has some council members concerned. Civil Beat.

Maui mayor pushes back against proposed new telescopes atop Haleakala. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen is taking a stand against building seven new telescopes on Haleakala, sendig a letter to the Air Force saying the county does not support the proposed “AMOS-STAR” project due to significant pushback from residents. Hawaii News Now.

Council votes to close Holomua Road amid fears of wildfire in Pāʻia. Maui County Council members set aside concerns about displacing two dozen homeless people from Holomua Road and the possibility of a legal challenge, and they decided Friday to restrict public access to a lower portion of the road and close its upper section. Maui Now.

How A Grassroots Lahaina Fundraiser Found A Better Way To Help Fire Survivors. Internet campaigns can raise a lot of money quickly, but survivors who don't have a strong online presence might miss out. Civil Beat.

Maui's Kamehameha Day Parade to be relocated from Lahaina. This year’s Kamehameha Day Parade on the Island of Maui is being relocated from Front Street to Kaʻahumanu Avenue in Central Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Conservation fence protects endangered seabirds at Molokai preserve. A new, 5,600-foot-long conservation fence at Mokio Preserve now keeps seabirds safe from predators on Molokai, according to the nonprofit American Bird Conservancy and Molokai Land Trust. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Navy, NASA want to renew Kaua‘i leases – West Side locals show support, opposition. Representatives of the US Navy and NASA entered the Kaua‘i community last week – soliciting questions, comments and concerns during a three-night run of public scoping sessions held at locations across the Garden Isle. Kauai Now.

Kauai nonprofit touts agroforestry and breadfruit to combat food insecurity. Kauai nonprofit is trumpeting tropical agroforestry as a way to solve food insecurity. The largest breadfruit agroforest in the state is run by The Breadfruit Institute at The National Tropical Botanical Garden. KITV4.

School lunch program caught in bureaucratic snafu, Navy leaders testify about Red Hill to federal grand jury, Puna Geothermal Venture seeks expansion, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

DOE Tells Schools To Reject Federal Funding For Local Food That It Helped Apply For. The Department of Education is telling schools not to apply for a slice of $500,000 in federal funding that would help them buy local food – an initiative the DOE helped apply for. Civil Beat.

Is The Deck Stacked Against Hawaii Condo Owners? Critics say oversight by state Real Estate Commission means owners get short-changed in favor of associations, management firms and lawyers. Civil Beat.

Hawaii ranks second-worst in the nation for distracted drivers. That’s according to a new analysis based on federal data. Hawaii News Now.

Informal Caregivers Are Propping Up Hawaii’s Child Care Industry With Little Support. Providing enrichment opportunities and training to grandparents and friends providing in-home child care can have a big impact on school readiness. Civil Beat.

Two Hawaii Lawmakers View The Debt Ceiling Differently. Sen. Brian Schatz wants debt ceiling raised without concessions. Rep. Ed Case says now is the time to take action on the fiscal health of the nation. Civil Beat.

Lawmaker won’t apologize after saying Hawaiian leader ‘would have been hung’ for criticizing him. Some residents are calling for an apology from state Sen. Brenton Awa, who said during a recent public meeting that a respected Hawaiian leader “would have been hung” for criticizing him. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

NOAA fines dolphin boat company for getting too close to dolphins off Makua Beach. An Oahu tour boat company is being fined $1,000 for getting too close to dolphins while the boat was idling. Federal law requires people to stay 50 yards away from Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu housing market stays sluggish as high interest rates subdued sales. High interest rates continue to subdue Oahu’s housing market where prices pushed down this year could remain flat in 2024, according to a University of Hawaii analysis. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Honolulu considers Chinatown tower for affordable housing. The Honolulu City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting Wednesday over the potential financing, acquisition and rehabilitation of an existing 32-story high-rise tower in Chinatown that the city seeks to keep as affordable. Star-Advertiser.

Navy leaders testify before federal grand jury investigating catastrophic Red Hill fuel spill. Navy leaders connected to the Navy tainted water scandal have testified before the federal grand jury investigating possible criminal wrongdoing. Hawaii News Now.

Joint Task Force-Red Hill says defueling still on track for June 2024. Vice Adm. John Wade, who leads the Joint Task Force-Red Hill, took command in last September with the mission to "safely and expeditiously" defuel the facility, but since the Aqueous Film Forming Foam spill, he's had to put more safety measures in place. Hawaii Public Radio.

Massive airport runway project halting state roadway repairs. Roadblocks are up on a number of state roadway repairs according to the Hawaii Department of Transportation. It’s due to what the HDOT is calling a massive project at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. KHON2.

City officials working to mitigate homeless encampment near Kalihi Transit Center. For years, people have been living at a homeless encampment half-hidden below a bridge on Kamehameha Highway near the Kalihi Transit Center -- and some noticed the streamside village is growing. KITV4.

A local teacher caught her students using AI for essays. Now, it's become a learning tool. Teachers can pay hundreds of dollars for lesson plans created by other teachers. ChatGPT is free. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Big Isle fire dispatchers move due to low staffing. A staffing shortage of fire and Emergency Medical Serv­ices dispatchers at the Hawaii County Fire Department has prompted its dispatch center to relocate to the Hawaii Police Department’s dispatch center in Hilo. Star-Advertiser.

Draft EIS Published For Puna Geothermal Venture Repower Project. The project would increase power production from 38 to 46 megawatts in Phase 1 and further increase production to 60 megawatts in Phase 2. The overall property size would remain the same. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Volunteer organization seeks adoptions for Waikoloa cats. Abaykitties has been working to get some of the cats from Queens’ Marketplace adopted after the nonprofit was told to stop its trap-neuter-release efforts at the shopping center. Tribune-Herald.

DLNR seeks public input on Hawaiʻi's only designated koa canoe forest. The Kapāpala Koa Canoe Management Area on Hawaiʻi Island consists of 1,257 acres of land and is located on the southeastern slopes of Maunaloa. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Looking For A Job? Maui County Has More Than 700 Openings. Maui County is hiring for more than 700 vacant jobs and is seeking volunteers for 30 spots on boards and commissions that steer the government’s path forward in solving the community’s most challenging problems.  Civil Beat.

Scores march on Molokai Ranch over access to culturally important lands. A contentious debate over land access on Molokai Ranch is resurfacing nearly five decades after it was first put in the spotlight. Hawaii News Now.

Luxury yacht owner denied insurance coverage to remove grounded boat from Maui’s Honolua Bay. The state’s efforts to recover $460,000 in expenses for the removal of a grounded luxury yacht at Maui’s Honolua Bay have hit a snag as the owner’s insurance company has denied coverage. Hawaii News Now.

Two Maui businesses accelerate their growth as part of entrepreneurial cohort. Two Maui businesses are among the latest XLR8HI cohort in Hawaiʻi, whose mission is to improve the Hawaiʻi ecosystem and better the community. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative leads state in renewable generation at 60.2% in 2022. Approximately one-third of the solar production came from members’ rooftop systems. Other renewables contributing in 2022 were hydro (10.7%) and biomass (9.8%). Kauai Now.

County of Kaua‘i jobless rate falls to 3.0 percent in March. The accommodation sector increased total employees to 4,300 in March from 3,600 in March 2022, according to monthly data released by the state Department of Business, Economic Development &Tourism. That marked a gain of 19.4 percent in the period. Garden Island.