Tulsi Gabbard jumps into crowded pack of presidential contenders, public hearing today on temporary Honolulu City Council member, Maui council confirms Victorino administrators, $5k rebates for EV charging stations, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tulsi Gabbard campaign photo

Tulsi Gabbard offers progressive platform at campaign kickoff. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard officially kicked off her presidential campaign Saturday with an ominous message about an increasingly dangerous world in which the United States sits on the “precipice of nuclear war” amid worsening international tensions. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard On Running For President: ‘We Must Fight For The Soul Of Our Country’. The U.S. representative from Hawaii held her first public rally on Saturday in her quest to win the White House in 2020. Civil Beat.

In front of scores of supporters in Waikiki on Saturday and with hundreds more watching online, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard officially kicked off her 2020 presidential campaign, saying that she wants to “build a movement of peace at home and abroad that will fulfill the promise of America." Hawaii News Now.

Congresswoman Gabbard calls on supporters to join her in her bid for the presidency. KHON2.

Tulsi Gabbard officially announces 2020 presidential run. She is entering a crowded race for the presidency. KITV.

VIDEO: Tulsi Gabbard Kicks Off 2020 Presidential Campaign. Big Island Video News.

Tulsi Gabbard’s foreign policy stance sets her apart in crowded field. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Kicks Off 2020 Campaign With $2 Million In The Bank. The Hawaii congresswoman will need to raise a lot more if she expects to compete with Democrat heavyweights such as Elizabeth Warren, who reported having $11 million in cash on hand. Civil Beat.

=====

The push to legalize pakalolo is building strong momentum this year, with more than two dozen state lawmakers introducing legislation to allow its recreational use by Hawaii adults. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers kill plan to lower voting age. A key Senate committee scuttled a plan to allow Hawaii residents to begin voting in state and local elections when they reach the age of 16 but is moving forward with proposals for automatic recounts in close races along with another plan for statewide voting by mail. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii businesses looking to go green could get some help installing electric vehicle charging stations. Hawaii Energy and Ulupono Initiative are offering a limited-time rebate for installing or upgrading to EV charging station at workplaces and multi-unit dwellings. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai, Big Island Mayors Dubious About Raising Minimum Wage. Honolulu’s mayor supports the pay increase, but leaders of islands hit hard by disasters last year say now is not the time. Civil Beat.

Looks Like We’ll Still Be Using Private Prisons On The Mainland For A While. Legislative leaders who are trying to solve Hawaii’s prison crisis say it’s unrealistic to think we can move hundreds of inmates back here anytime soon. Civil Beat.

A bill wants to ban plastic rings that connect multiple cans of beverages. The legislation also intends to fine companies that make the rings. KITV.

Lawmakers introduce new bills to combat ticket scalpers and bots. KHON2.

Counterfeit coffee: Senate bill to re-introduce mandatory certification for green advances. Clearing the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment, Senate Bill 869 came one step closer Friday to reinstating a mandatory certification process for green coffee coming out of the state. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council members have submitted their list of candidates to temporarily fill the District IV seat currently left vacant while a special election is pending. The council will be holding a public hearing on Monday, February 4, to consider names that have been submitted by the council members. KHON2.

Homeless flock to rest stop but few use social services. The number of homeless adults, children and pets using the city’s Punawai Rest Stop, a “hygiene center” in Iwilei, has steadily grown in less than a month of operation — from eight people on the first day to 174 on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A largely deserted piece of the former Barbers Point Naval Air Station in Kalaeloa is being prepared for re-population as part of a plan to build the first new homes in the area since the military base closed in 1999. Star-Advertiser.

A $2.08 million project to address cliff erosion and rock slides along two makai portions of Diamond Head is set to begin Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Many chafe at tourism growth. Once a secret spot for locals, Laie Point isn’t the most welcoming place for tourists. Star-Advertiser.

Higher-than-expected levels of the chemical chlordane in the soil beneath the former Henke Hall have delayed construction of the new Life Sciences building at the University of Hawaii at Manoa by nearly a year, and raised the cost of construction by nearly $4 million. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Wild attacks on high court could backfire on Trevor Ozawa. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim signed a proclamation Friday announcing the county’s commitment to eliminating all traffic deaths and serious injuries on island roads. Tribune-Herald.

Property tax changes coming. Eliminating the solar water tax credit, reclassifying small agriculture lots to residential and repealing an obsolete program are three ways the county could generate revenue and make its property tax code more equitable, according to a report to be considered next week by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

A public meeting will be held Wednesday in Hilo on a proposed spaceport. The informational open-house is part of the environmental assessment process for the small satellite launch facility the Alaska Aerospace Corp. is seeking to build on W.H. Shipman land. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island lawmakers have renewed their efforts to secure lifeguards for Kua Bay in North Kona. Two bills have been introduced in the Senate and another bill in the House to fund lifeguards at the popular beach site. West Hawaii Today.

A state Senate committee advanced bills Friday in support of a new boat ramp for Puna and demolition of the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel. Tribune-Herald.

Hu Honua Bioenergy faces more litigation, while construction of its biomass power plant near Pepeekeo falls further behind schedule. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hart to divest stake in company before joining mayor’s staff. Deputy planning director hopes to take up his new post mid-February. Incoming Deputy Planning Director Jordan Hart has not yet taken his position in the Michael Victorino mayoral administration as he works to divest himself of the company his father founded, which is involved in land-use planning and landscape architecture. Maui News.

Two more directors pass muster in council panel. Pearson for water, Teruya for finance are recommended. Maui News.

A council committee on Friday advanced recommendations in support of Jeffrey Pearson as director of the Department of Water Supply, and Scott Teruya as director of the Department of Finance. Maui Now.

Maui’s Mahi Pono to offer lots to local farmers. The company that bought a vast expanse of land in Central Maui from Hawaii’s last sugar cane plantation plans to kick off its new operations by offering lots to local farmers to grow their crops. Associated Press.

‘Hope and skepticism’: Mahi Pono reaches out to community. Mahi Pono officials making rounds; details about who they are beginning to emerge. Maui News.

Tearing up over famous onion’s end. Maui Pickled Products has sent its last shipment . Maui News.

Kauai

Hawaii may become the first state in the nation to get a new type of ground-based missile interceptor — in addition to the powerful $1 billion radar that’s already in the works — to better protect against North Korean missile attack.  A long-awaited Missile Defense Review recently released by the Pentagon calls for the Missile Defense Agency and the Navy to study the viability of “operationalizing” the Aegis Ashore missile defense test site on Kauai, either temporarily or permanently, with interceptor missiles. Star-Advertiser.

Home sales up, Realtors cautious. The total number of properties sold last month on Kauai is slightly higher than a year before, but some Realtors are saying those numbers are not necessarily a positive sign. Garden Island.

Ozawa-Waters rematch election set, Hawaiian Airlines reports $233M profit, telescope opponents take fight to California, DHHL bribery scandal hits Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trevor Ozawa, Tommy Waters campaign photos

A rematch between Trevor Ozawa and Tommy Waters to represent Honolulu City Council District 4 is set for Saturday, April 13. Hawaii News Now.

Ozawa-Waters rematch scheduled for April. The “all mail” election for the District 4 City Council seat will be mailed out March 21, city Clerk Glen Takahashi said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Ozawa-Waters Rematch Coming Up April 13 In City Council District 4. Gov. David Ige and election officials announce plans for the special election after the November results were invalidated by the Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council District 4 Special Election Dates Announced. Hawaii Public Radio.

Residents from Hawaii Kai to Waikiki mark your calendars, the special election for the open Honolulu City Council District 4 seat will be held on Saturday, April 13th. KITV.

Gov. David Ige issued a special proclamation for a special election as required by state law.  KHON2.

=====

Gabbard’s Claims Of ‘Religious Bigotry’ Draw Cheers From The Right. A $1.5 million ad campaign from a group that wants to stack the courts with conservative judges features the Hawaii congresswoman’s recent attacks against Senate Democrats. Civil Beat.

Gabbard denies her presidential campaign is in ‘disarray’ after online report. Hawaii News Now.

Disaster planning to be required for new condos. A new bill by state Representative Cynthia Thielen, co-signed by Representative Gregg Takayama, would require new condominiums to create disaster preparedness plans before the beginning of next year. KHON2.

Hawaiian Airlines reports $233M profit in 2018. Higher fuel prices, increased competition, aircraft delivery delays, the Kilauea eruption and severe weather events didn’t prevent Hawaiian Holdings Inc. from carrying the most passengers of any year ever or surpassing analyst’s expectations. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A veteran Honolulu police officer was placed on administrative leave Tuesday after he shot and killed a 51-year-old Ewa Beach man who apparently sped his vehicle toward the officer at a traffic stop in Kalihi. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Fatally Shoot Man Who Drove Toward Officer. The suspect was pulled over early Tuesday near Kamehameha Shopping Center for a traffic violation. Associated Press.

Ancient Hawaiian site in Kalaeloa threatened. On Oahu’s arid Ewa plain, amid a kiawe tree forest, remnants of an ancient Hawaiian settlement are a cultural treasure anchoring a heritage park. Star-Advertiser.

Driver of truck that plowed into group of pedestrians, killing 3, faces manslaughter charges. Alins Sumang, the 27-year-old driver accused of hitting the pedestrians in a traffic island, is believed to have been speeding and was likely under the influence of alcohol when he struck the pedestrians. Hawaii News Now.

Fatal crash highlights pedestrians’ vulnerability. At a time when private developers and public policymakers are encouraging people to leave their cars behind and hit the streets on foot, Hawaii pedestrians likely have never felt more vulnerable. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu and Molokai public libraries to close February 7 for Library Institute Day. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Leaders of a fight against building a giant telescope on Mauna Kea are in California trying to convince a financial backer of the project to withdraw support. Associated Press.

Bill seeks ambulances for Makalei, Puna areas. West Hawaii Today.

A wastewater force main that ruptured in 2017 sending sewage into Kailua Bay will soon be replaced, if the County Council approves a measure increasing the cost to $1.7 million. West Hawaii Today.

Digital kiosks allow quick vehicle registration renewals at Safeway stores across Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Kulana Foods’ decision to cease slaughter of small animals concerns some ranchers. Tribune-Herald.

Interactions between humans and honu in the waters off Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park have become more complicated as the protected species grow in numbers. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Has 26% of State’s Visitor Accommodation Units. Maui has the second highest percentage of visitor accommodation units in the state according to a new 2018 Visitor Plant Inventory Report filed by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

The Maui Police Department reports that its forensic facility currently has five unclaimed remains. Maui Now.

A training exercise is planned this Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019 in Central Maui for members of the Hawaii National Guard, Maui police officers and state and county firefighters. Maui Now.

Haleakala’s Pan-STARRS offers lots more space data. ‘World’s largest digital sky survey’ available for public and astronomers. Maui News.

Tech entrepreneur to speak at February Maui TechOhana. He created concept of YouTube Channels. Maui News.

Kauai

Engineer’s bribery scandal involves awarding of lucrative DHHL contract. Jim Lyon, owner of the Honolulu-based company Lyon Associates, pleaded guilty last week to conspiracy charges in the alleged bribery scheme. Multiple sources say the bribe helped land a $2.5 million DHHL engineering contract on Kauai. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Parks and Recreation has installed blue light bulbs in public bathrooms at some parks to discourage illicit drug use and loitering. Garden Island.

A lottery for a rare hunting opportunity on Kauai is coming up. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is opening a special session from April to August to track down feral goats in the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Hawaii News Now.

The humpback whale calf found dead on Kekaha Beach Monday didn’t die of starvation and it wasn’t killed by sharks, according to Researchers from the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology’s Marine Mammal Stranding Lab. Garden Island.

A little, fuzzy chick has hatched in Princeville, signaling the beginning of that area’s Laysan albatross chick season and hailing the incoming of many more seabird babies throughout the North Shore. Garden Island.

UH tuition cuts proposed, more on Gabbard's past, Ozawa-Waters battle heats up, Maui newspaper editor moves to mayor's office, Kauai seeks $130k fine for illegal vacation rental, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii at Manoa ©2019 All Hawaii News

UH proposes tuition cuts and freezes for students at all campuses. KITV.

University of Hawaii proposes holding off on tuition hikes for all students. Hawaii News Now.

UH proposes tuition decrease, then freeze. The UH administration is seeking to increase affordability, improve price competitiveness and reverse enrollment declines by instituting a tuition decrease that would apply to nearly all students at the 10-campus system for this academic year and then freeze those lowered rates through 2023. Star-Advertiser.

=====

A New Public Corruption Scandal Looms For Hawaii. A Honolulu engineer admitted paying $400,000 in bribes, but secrecy still surrounds the state employees and Micronesian officials who allegedly accepted payoffs. Civil Beat.

Tulsi Gabbard’s run for president brings questions about her past. Star-Advertiser.

When the Honolulu Star-Advertiser began reporting on a story about Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and the Science of Identity Foundation, a religious organization founded by a local spiritual leader named Chris Butler, the organization began aggressively arguing that the newspaper was using religion as a “political weapon” and was fomenting religious bigotry. Star-Advertiser.

Not All Hawaii Lawmakers Embrace Gut-And-Replace. At least five senators and two representatives oppose the practice of inserting whole new language and often a different purpose into legislation with little public notice. Civil Beat.

Bail reform on tap in Legislature. A task force established to examine pretrial detention for criminal defendants has recommended eliminating bail for nonviolent offenders charged with misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors but stopped short of eliminating cash bail altogether. Tribune-Herald.

A lawmaker is pushing to add fluoride to the state's public water system to promote oral health in Hawaii. KITV.

We Have To Move Our Homes And Businesses Away From The Shoreline. But How? Hawaii lawmakers will confront major policy questions this session as they grapple with looming problems from a warming planet. Civil Beat.

168 Whales Sighted in 15 Minutes During Whale Counts. More than 572 volunteers gathered data from the shores of O‘ahu, Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i islands during the first event of the 2019 Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count, and on Maui with the Great Whale Count by Pacific Whale Foundation. Maui Now.

Commentary: Abercrombie’s preschool actions then are the building blocks for Ige’s program today. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

If Honolulu City Council candidate Trevor Ozawa thought Hawaii Supreme Court justices had conflicts of interest with his opponent Tommy Waters, he could have objected before they participated in deciding on Waters’ election challenge, the state Judiciary said. Star-Advertiser.

A new Honolulu City Council District 4 election will be held within four months, with the council planning to appoint an interim representative for now. Civil Beat.

Trevor Ozawa, Tommy Waters split over high court’s ruling. Star-Advertiser.

"Dirty politics": City Council candidate Trevor Ozawa considering legal action after Supreme Court ruling. The Supreme Court invalidated Trevor Ozawa's win over Tommy Waters for the district four seat Friday. KITV.

War of words as battle for Honolulu city council seat continues. KHON2.

Ozawa: Conflicts of interest tainted state Supreme Court’s judgement. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Honolulu police officers volunteered to testify in Kealoha case. Lower-ranking police officers asked to be subpoenaed for the Honolulu Ethics Commission’s investigation into then- Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his then- deputy prosecutor wife, Katherine Kealoha, according to documents the Kealohas recently disclosed in their upcoming federal conspiracy and obstruction trial. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Gregg Takayama hopes to convince the federal government to sell the Federal Detention Center next to the Honolulu airport to the state to use as a replacement for the aging Oahu Community Correctional Center in Kalihi. Star-Advertiser.

=====

For the first time in a decade of discussion about the future of rapidly deteriorating Aloha Stadium, bills before the Legislature propose a by-the-numbers financial blueprint and define a process for ancillary redevelopment of the 98-acre parcel. Star-Advertiser.

The future of Aloha Stadium might not include the beloved swap meet. Hawaii News Now.

Some lawmakers want more than new Aloha Stadium. KHON2.

Lawmakers look at building parks, condos, even hotels in Aloha Stadium district. The idea for redevelopment is to reel in money for the state's economy. KITV.

=====

New allegations surface against a former trustee of Heiress Kawananakoa. Attorneys for Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa are accusing her former trustee of taking money from her the day he was fired. Hawaii News Now.

The city prosecutor has filed papers in Honolulu District court to dismiss charges against five men who were arrested in a failed attempt to seize the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Members of the county Charter Commission are having second thoughts about a ballot measure reducing how much of the county’s budget must be used to buy land for preservation. West Hawaii Today.

The CEO of Alaska Aerospace Corp. said the organization will have some homework to do after a contentious meeting with Department of Hawaiian Home Lands residents Friday about its proposed small satellite launch facility. Tribune-Herald.

Kamehameha Schools, which owns 54 acres at Keauhou Bay, is developing a management plan intended to move traffic and commercial operations away from historic sites and reduce pressure on the bayfront’s resources. West Hawaii Today.

Homeless numbers in Hawaii vs public perception. West Hawaii Today.

A study to determine whether the Pohoiki boat ramp can reopen may happen in months or in mere weeks. Tribune-Herald.

Lawyers discuss Lloyd’s of London lawsuits at meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Council advances Kaupulehu project. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The state has agreed to pay $585,000 to settle a lawsuit by two former foster children who were sexually molested by a state-licensed Maui foster parent. Star-Advertiser.

Hana Highway group looks to make road safer while raising cultural awareness. KHON2.

Lawmakers mull ways to deal with fire risk, relief. State and local lawmakers are looking for ways to provide relief for West Maui residents still working to rebuild their homes and crops after fires in August. Maui News.

South Maui park options presented. Three concepts for the undeveloped portion of the South Maui Community Park will be presented from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Kenolio Recreation Center, 131 S. Kihei Road. Maui News.

Colleen Uechi named assistant city editor. Her appointment comes amid a newsroom reorganization brought on by the departures of City Editor Brian Perry and reporter Chris Sugidono to the mayoral administration of Michael Victorino. Maui News.

Kauai

Commission recommends $130,000 fine. The owners of a vacation rental property on the Wailua River may be fined $130,000 for violating county zoning ordinances. Garden Island.

Coral reefs bouncing back. On Kauai, corals battled black band disease from 2004 to about 2015 and did experience some impacts of bleaching, but in the last year, divers reported an increase in coral growth at Anini Beach on Kauai’s northeast side in March — a March report from underwater photographer Terry Lilley mentioned healthy and disease-free corals that “continue to grow at a rapid rate.” Garden Island.

Kauai Beach Resort has undergone many transformations since its construction in the 1970s, and April 1 another hospitality company is taking over management of the resort. Garden Island.

Sovereignty group members arrested after storming OHA, hundreds mark Hawaiian Kingdom overthrow at Iolani Palace, Cayetano hospitalized for heart problems, Tulsi Gabbard apologizes for anti-gay stance, Peter Boy's mother dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Office of Hawaiian Affairs PC: Andre Perez Facebook photo

Sovereignty group storms OHA. Five people were arrested Thursday after a radical sovereignty group muscled its way into the Honolulu headquarters of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on the anniversary of the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. Star-Advertiser.

5 arrested after members of sovereignty group storm OHA offices. At least five people were arrested Thursday after a self-proclaimed Polynesian sovereignty group stormed OHA’s office on Nimitz Highway, prompting an hours-long lockdown. Hawaii News Now.

Four Men Arrested For Assault After OHA Office Occupied. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says some of its staff members were forcibly removed from the lobby by 12 people. Associated Press.

Five men arrested for storming Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs was locked down for a couple of hours after a self-proclaimed sovereignty group occupied the facility. KHON2.

Hawaiian group attempts to overtake OHA offices: Five men arrested. Those arrested were booked for third-degree assault, an their bail was set at $100 each. KITV.

Native Hawaiians have mixed reactions to OHA occupation. KHON2.

Hundreds gathered at Iolani Palace on Thursday to commemorate 126 years since the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The overthrow happened on Jan. 17, 1893. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds march to mark 126th anniversary of overthrow. Hundreds marched in solidarity Thursday to commemorate the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii. KITV.

OHA’s Own Audit Is Being Blocked — By People At OHA. The internal audit is supposed to identify areas where the Office of Hawaiian Affairs might be vulnerable to fraud and waste. Civil Beat.

=====

Cayetano hospitalized after suffering heart condition. Former Gov. Ben Cayetano is recovering in the hospital after suffering a rare but dangerous heart condition earlier this week. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Gabbard Apologizes In Video For Past Statements On Gay Rights. She released the video in response to criticism since she declared her candidacy for president. Associated Press.

Tulsi Gabbard releases video apology for past hurtful LGBTQ statements. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, who last week announced she was running for president, apologized today for her record of anti-gay rhetoric and her past work for an anti-gay advocacy group — issues that have emerged as an early obstacle as she pursues a long-shot bid for the Democratic Party’s nomination. New York Times.

Hawaii Congresswoman and presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard is apologizing for past beliefs and comments that she said were “wrong, and worse, hurtful to people in the LGBTQ+ community and their loved ones.” Hawaii News Now.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard apologizes to LGBTQ community for earlier views. Gabbard's father ran The Alliance for Traditional Marriage, a political action committee aimed at opposing pro-gay lawmakers and legislation. KITV.

Less than a week after U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard confirmed she would be running for President of the United States in 2020, the Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii has posted her first video apology to social media. Big Island Video News.

=====

A Hawaii businessman has been charged with bribing state employees and officials in the Federated States of Micronesia in order to receive multi-million dollar government contracts. Frank James Lyon, of LYON Associates Inc. in Honolulu, allegedly bribed the Hawaii government workers with at least $240,000 in order to land a $2.5 million contract, according to a federal court filing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii School Superintendent’s Contract Extended For One Year. Some education advocates are concerned that the evaluation of Christina Kishimoto wasn’t tied more closely to data about school performance. Civil Beat.

School Board votes to extend Superintendent's contract. The Hawaii Board of Education voted to extend the School Superintendent Christina Kishimoto's contract by a year. KITV.

Fighting Climate Change Will Cost The State Millions. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources says money is urgently needed to protect beaches, watersheds, native species and more. Civil Beat.

The use of e-cigarettes among high school teens in Hawai’i is two times higher than the national average, according to the latest surveys.  And, the state legislature will be asked again to tighten Hawaii laws this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate rose in December for the fourth straight month as evidence mounted that economic growth in the state is slowing. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The agency constructing the $9 billion Honolulu rail project violated state procurement law multiple times, according to a report by the city auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Rail Project Director Doesn’t Fully Meet Expectations — But Still Gets A Bonus. Andrew Robbins has proven a “quick study” in his first year leading the project but needs to improve, according to his job evaluation. Civil Beat.

Rail CEO won’t see a raise this year, but he did get a hefty bonus. The chief executive of Honolulu’s rail transit project won’t get a raise this year, but the rail authority’s board did vote to give Andrew Robbins a $10,000 bonus. Hawaii News Now.

The board of directors of the Honolulu rail authority granted CEO Andrew Robbins a $10,000 bonus Thursday as part of his evaluation for his first year on the job but declined to give him a pay increase. Star-Advertiser.

=====

City, Kealohas battle over secrecy of ethics investigation evidence. The city is going to court to protect evidence uncovered by ethics investigations of Kathy and Louis Kealoha. It's findings that later played a role in the ongoing federal criminal investigation. KHON2.

Dozens of government workers and union supporters gathered Thursday morning at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport for a silent march to protest the partial government shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

Oceangoers spotted walking on sperm whale carcass off Oahu. Video captured Wednesday shows a swimmer climbing on the carcass and then falling into the water. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser forms exposition, trade fair division. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser is expanding its line of expositions and trade fairs through a new events division, Star Events. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The County Council has resurrected an old general excise tax hike that was postponed last May and put it on Wednesday’s council agenda for consideration. But officials say it’s on the agenda only as a procedural move, because the previous council in May had postponed it to the second council meeting in January. West Hawaii Today.

New leadership: Maui Electric Co.’s president will also oversee HELCO as Jay Ignacio retires. Hawaiian Electric is appointing one person to lead its Hawaii Island and Maui subsidiaries as the private power utility seeks to consolidate administrative positions. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed 11-unit condominium on the makai side of Alii Drive is moving forward again, but some residents are speaking out about it and one petition for standing in a contested case hearing has already been filed in the case. West Hawaii Today.

Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commissioners recently got an update on the status of the Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in South Kona, which was identified by the commission as the number 2 priority for acquisition in its 2018 Report to the Mayor. Big Island Video News.

Jaylin Kema, mother of ‘Peter Boy,’ dead at 48. Jaylin Kema, the mother of fatal child abuse victim Peter Kema Jr., aka “Peter Boy,” died Wednesday night. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Servco Lexus Maui and Servco Subaru Maui held a blessing and grand opening ceremony for its new dual dealership location in Kahului at the Maui Business Park II. Maui Now.

Beginning in February, Maui County girls ages 11 to 17 may join the Boy Scouts, part of a nationwide change that began in October 2017 when the Boy Scouts announced that it would accept girls into the program. Maui News.

Kauai

Many hands have removed large amounts of the invasive aquatic plant salvinia from the Kilauea River over the past few years, but nature’s April flooding really swept it downstream. Garden Island.

Director sought for Grove Farm Museum. Garden Island.

Hawaii feeling the shutdown strain, sole GOP state senator affirmed by Supreme Court, Gabbard criticizing Democratic colleagues, bacteria closes Oahu beaches, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu International Airport ©2019 All Hawaii News

Shutdown strain could lead to longer airport lines. Working without pay for weeks. While the battle over the partial government shutdown takes place in Washington D-C, it's putting a strain on people here in Hawaii. KITV.

Impact in Hawaii likely to worsen as shutdown continue. The number of federal civilian employees in Hawaii that are either furloughed or working without pay 20 days after the government partially shut down has been tallied at some 2,741, according to website governing.com, which focuses on state and local government. Star-Advertiser.

Day 19: Federal workers in Hawaii take on side jobs, loans as shutdown drags on. Hawaii News Now.

=====

The State’s General Fund forecast for the current fiscal year was lowered less than one percentage point today, meaning there’s less money to spend in the upcoming legislative session. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected a challenge filed by defeated state Senate candidate Matt LoPresti, clearing the way for Kurt Fevella to be the state’s only Republican senator. Star-Advertiser.

Minimum Wage And Marijuana: What To Expect In The 2019 Hawaii Legislature. Lawmakers will tackle familiar issues like public school funding. They’re also likely to raise the minimum wage and might even legalize recreational marijuana. Civil Beat.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard took aim at Democratic colleagues, including U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, accusing them of religious bigotry in their questioning of Brian Buescher, a nominee to the U.S. District Court of Nebraska, in an opinion piece published by The Hill yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Childhood sexual abuse, drug use, violence and fractured families are among the common threads in the victim stories told to researchers examining the scope of sex trafficking in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

High bacteria levels at various beaches lead to closure of a popular spot. Due to the elevated levels, a city spokesperson said Hanauma Bay would be closed on Thursday. The upper viewing area, parking lot, and visitor center will remain open. Hawaii News Now.

Hanauma Bay will be closed Thursday after testing showed elevated levels of bacteria in the water. It's one of six separate areas of Oahu where high bacteria levels were found. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Chief increases patrol staff for the next few years. KHON2.

An erased crosswalk renews calls for safer roads after elderly man’s death. It was Oahu’s first traffic fatality of the year. Hawaii News Now.

"Put the crosswalk back on Hawaii Kai Drive," residents urge the city after a man dies in the area. KHON2.

The tail section of a crashed Hawker Hunter fighter jet -- with its engine and "black box" -- was recovered in about 265 feet of water Monday off Kewalo Basin, the Coast Guard said. Star-Advertiser.

Non-Profits Contribute Funds, Staff to Keep Pearl Harbor Open During Shutdown. Hawaii Public Radio.

The International Market Place — more than two years after opening a glitzy $500 million shopping complex in the heart of Waikiki — is redesigning its Kalakaua Avenue entrance to improve the flow of customers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Despite perennial complaints about the cumbersome process of getting building permits, the head of that county division was elevated Wednesday to director of the Department of Public Works. West Hawaii Today.

David Yamamoto, a long-time County engineer, was confirmed as the new Director of Public Works by the Hawaii County Council during a meeting in Hilo on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

A pair of bills that appropriate millions of federal dollars to recover from 2018’s disasters passed their first readings by the County Council on Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

A priority list of Kilauea Volcano eruption recovery projects was provided to the Hawaii County Council today, as a bill to appropriate an early round of Federal Emergency Management Agency funds passed first reading. Big Island Video News.

Big Island officials are asking state lawmakers for $155 million to fund repairs and losses due to the Kilauea eruption. That’s on top of more than half a billion dollars in federal funding sought by the county and Big Island residents. Hawaii News Now.

When the new legislative session opens next week Hawaii County will ask the state for $155 million dollars to help with the Kilauea eruption recovery. KITV.

County Council members Wednesday held their noses and advanced a sewer rate hike few seemed to like, sending it to the council for two more votes. West Hawaii Today.

Federal class-action suit claims Lloyd’s, underwriters, defrauded Puna homeowners. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Department of Water Supply employees at a public meeting in Holualoa Wednesday evening fielded inquiries on a new 16-inch transmission line set to span 5,240 feet of Mamalahoa Highway between Water Pipe Road and Kamila Place. West Hawaii Today.

Other Spaceport Plans Crashed — Will This One Fly? The site of a proposed launch pad in Puna has not been revealed, but a preliminary possibility is described as “east or northeast of the macadamia nut farm.” Civil Beat.

Maui

The Maui Planning Commission has approved a settlement agreement between Maui County and the Kapalua Resort Association, which dismantled a rock wall on its property without permits in June 2017. Maui News.

The state Health Department said this morning it has ordered Maui Land & Pineapple Co. to pay a penalty of $230,000 for 15 wastewater effluent violations from the Haliimaile waste stabilization ponds on the Valley Isle. The company must also build a new wastewater treatment plant. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Health issued a Notice of Violation and Order against the Maui Land & Pineapple Company, Inc. for 15 alleged wastewater effluent violations from the Haliimaile waste stabilization ponds on Maui. The company has been ordered to pay a penalty of $230,000 and construct a new wastewater treatment plant. Maui Now.

Maui Land & Pineapple fined for wastewater violations. KHON2.

Department of Taxation special agents and state Deputy Sheriffs arrested today a former tax preparer in Lahaina for tax violations. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

On Kauai, election officials are preparing for a big experiment: All mail-in voting. Last year, Governor David Ige signed a law that allows Kauai County to distribute mail-in ballots to all registered voters for the 2020 primary and general elections. Hawaii News Now.

Knee-deep in keawe and spiders, about 15 sailors at the Pacific Missile Range Facility were on the hunt for albatross nests Wednesday morning, under the guidance of the base’s natural resource team and members of federal and state wildlife and land management agencies. Garden Island.

The opening of Kuhio Highway on the North Shore remains uncertain. In an update on emergency repairs to the road damaged in the April flooding, the Hawaii Department of Transportation said Wednesday there have been “unavoidable extensions in the project schedule.” Garden Island.

Supreme Court mulls Honolulu election results, Kauai reaches 50% renewable power, Hawaii lawmaker joins drilling fight as tarballs surface on Big Island beach, whale count scheduled despite federal shutdown, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale breach  in Hawaii PC: Kohala Sail & Sea Michael Faughn

An annual effort to monitor humpback whale migration numbers in Hawaii will proceed as scheduled despite the shutdown of the federal government, a spokesperson for the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation said Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary's annual Ocean Count will take place January 26 despite the federal government shutdown. KHON2.

Mike Gabbard joins other lawmakers from coastal states to oppose offshore drilling. Associated Press.

New State Lawmakers and Their Priorities. There are 12 new state lawmakers for the upcoming session – 9 in the House and 3 in the Senate. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. David Ige has chosen Jay Griffin to chair the Public Utilities Commission. Griffin has served on the three-member commission since May 2017. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige reappoints leaders for DOD, announces new appointees for 3 state departments. Two leaders at the helm of Hawaii’s Department of Defense are likely to continue their work after Gov. David Ige announced their reappointments to their positions Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Shutdown leaves Hawaii immigrant cases in limbo. The impasse in Washington has raised fears in Hawaii funding will end for federal benefits used by low income residents, for food, housing and much needed assistance. KITV.

Tensions rise between 2 of Hawaii’s Congressional leaders over ‘religious bigotry’ comments. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard appears to have “called out” Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono over her questioning of a judicial nominee, accusing her and others of religious bigotry. Hawaii News Now.

The Navy test-fired a series of new hypervelocity projectiles this past summer from the destroyer USS Dewey during Rim of the Pacific exercises off Hawaii that the Congressional Research Service said could be a “game changer” for defending warships against an increasingly sophisticated array of Chinese missiles. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Hawaii Supreme Court pressed election officials Tuesday for information on late-arriving absentee ballots in a dispute over Trevor Ozawa’s 22-vote victory in November for a seat on the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council candidate Tommy Waters says he is pleased that the Hawaii Supreme Court is asking more questions about how ballots were counted in his close race against incumbent Trevor Ozawa. Hawaii News Now.

A place for Iwilei homeless to shower, do laundry, pick up mail and receive other services opened Tuesday on Kuwili Street. Star-Advertiser.

After years of waiting, a hygiene center (and safe haven) opens in Iwilei. The rest stop is the first phase of a multi-million dollar project designed to help Iwilei’s homeless population. Hawaii News Now.

The homeless in Iwilei now have a place to shower, wash their clothes, and check their email. KITV.

=====

‘Go home’: Councilman has choice words for a Chinese developer that threatened to boycott Hawaii. It comes as the developer appears to have broken a key promise. A Chinese developer’s promise to hire hundreds of local, unionized construction workers at his Sheridan Street condo project appears to be in jeopardy. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines revises international check-in site for some passengers. Star-Advertiser.

Kealohas’ foreclosed Hawaii Kai home goes on market for $1.3M. The Hawaii Kai home of retired Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his former city prosecutor wife, Katherine, is for sale while their lender forecloses on the property and the couple faces corruption-related charges. Associated Press.

Jim Nabors’ oceanfront Honolulu estate sells for $12M. Los Angeles Times.

Hawaii Island

Tarballs found in sands at Spencer Beach Park in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Squatters, homeless, vacation rentals, taxes and an emergency relief package in the wake of last year’s volcanic eruption top the priority list Mayor Harry Kim is presenting to the state Legislature this year. West Hawaii Today.

Joining The Parade Of Counties That Are Raising Taxes. Hawaii County tacks a 0.25 percent surcharge onto the general excise tax and considers going higher. Civil Beat.

Courts and corrections officials modified their operations after an accused murderer was mistakenly released from the Hilo jail last summer, and the Hawaii island courts now send bail documents to the jail via email as well as having them hand-carried to the facility, state lawmakers were told Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

County officials shot down a bill that would require the county to establish a plan to control feral animals and waste at county facilities. Tribune-Herald.

Suit against Big Island Dairy settled. The suit was filed in 2017 in U.S. District Court in Honolulu by citizen group Kupale Ookala and the Center for Food Safety and was scheduled to go to trial this month. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Dairy Settlement Sets Dates For Closure, Cleanup. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The deadline for applications for Maui County boards, councils, commissions and committees has been extended to Jan. 15. Maui News.

1.2 acres in Kapalua set to be preserved as open space. A conservation easement for a 1.2-acre property in Kapalua that includes a trail in the area has been donated to the Hawaiian Islands Land Trust by the Sue D. Cooley Trust. Maui News.

Maui housing prices rose last year to a record for single-­family homes but still lagged a more than decade-­old high for condominiums despite a double-digit rise. Star-Advertiser.

Developer's plan for second Maui hotel triggers need for EIS. R.D. Olson Development’s plan to build a second limited-service hotel on Maui outlined in an environmental assessment last summer has triggered a requirement to prepare a more detailed environmental impact statement. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Kauai Fire Department Chief Robert Westerman is retiring before the end of the week, but the fire commission has not decided who his successor will be. Garden Island.

The Kauai Fire Commission is searching for a new fire chief, following the retirement of Chief Robert Westerman after 20 years of service. KHON2.

Kauai reaches goal of 50% renewable power. AES Corp. has completed a solar power plant on Kauai that can do something most renewable projects can’t: deliver power when it’s most needed. Star-Advertiser.

A 150-acre solar farm on the south side of the island was unveiled Tuesday. Garden Island.

New solar-plus-storage facility gets KIUC past 50% renewable generation. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has reached the next milestone in its pursuit of 100 percent renewable energy generation with the completion of the largest solar-plus-storage facility in the state. Pacific Business News.

Kauai home sales increase in 2018, prices rise 6%. Single-family home sales rose 8.17 percent in 2018 to 596 houses sold, from 551 houses sold in 2017. The median price of those homes was $699,500, which was a 5.98 percent increase from $660,000 in 2017. Pacific Business News.

Obama encourages next generation at East-West Center, former Lt. Gov. Tsutsui to head Maui farm venture, Ige works to fill Cabinet, Jim Nabors' home sold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former President Barack Obama, courtesy Obama Foundation.

Former President Barack Obama stressed the importance of cultivating the next generation of leaders during a speech Sunday night at the East-West Center that harked back to his roots as a community organizer in Chicago. Star-Advertiser.

Obama: ‘We Have A Deficit of Leadership And We Need New Blood’. The former U.S. president launched a program in Hawaii this weekend aimed at nurturing future leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. Civil Beat.

Former President Obama speaks at UH Manoa for launch of foundation’s Asia-Pacific leadership program. Former President Barack Obama spoke at a private gathering Sunday at the East-West Center, his foundation's first major event in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Facebook video of Obama's address. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Is A Rising Progressive Star Despite Her Support For Hindu Nationalists. A possible run for president has prompted the Hawaii congresswoman to publicly distance herself while continuing to court them in private. Civil Beat.

Gov. Ige’s New Cabinet Is Still Almost Half Empty. He has made 11 appointments so far, and nine of the department heads are carryovers from his first term. Civil Beat.

The private money that’s keeping Hawaii’s national parks open is running out. Hawaii News Now.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii appear to have displaced timeshares as the third most sought-after lodging choice behind hotels and condominiums in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Public Safety violated federal law when it ignored a Halawa Correctional Facility inmate’s requests to engage in certain Native Hawaiian religious practices, according to a court ruling. Star-Advertiser.

Task Force Criticizes ‘Punitive Mentality’ Of Hawaii Criminal Justice System. The group opposes the construction of a bigger Oahu Community Correctional Center and calls for a new focus on rehabilitation. Civil Beat.

The Law Enforcement Standards Board is asking the state Legislature for additional time and money to create and implement statewide standards for training and certification of county and state law enforcement officers. Tribune-Herald.

State senators on Friday questioned why Gov. David Ige’s administration chose to file lawsuits over President Donald Trump’s immigration policies but declined to join in class- action litigation against drug manufacturers and distributors that are being blamed for the opioid epidemic across the country. Star-Advertiser.

Humane Society backs bill allowing dogs at restaurants. The Humane Society, along with its fellow animal rescue organizations on neighbor isles, is pushing for a bill this legislative session that would give restaurant owners the discretion to adopt dog-friendly policies. Star-Advertiser.

A new rule bans feeding and abandoning feral animals at small boat harbors statewide. Governor David Ige approved the rule in December 2018 in an effort to help protect native and endangered species being threatened by feral animals. KHON2.

The state Department of Accounting and General Services' annual small claims report shows the state paid $179,148.77 to resolve 174 claims during the last fiscal year. KHON2.

Oahu

Oahu home prices hit 2018 records amid slowing sales. The annual median price paid for a single-family home rose nearly 5 percent to a high of $790,000, and the annual median price paid for a condominium increased nearly 4 percent to a record $420,000. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline to Appeal Property Tax Assessments Approaching. Properties in several districts saw value increases around or above 10% last year, resulting in a higher tax bill for homeowners. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state senate candidate who's challenging his election loss calls Hawaii's recount law "unconstitutional." Matt LoPresti still holds out hope for a recount and he submitted a response to the Hawaii Supreme Court Friday. KITV.

State and city officials plan to temporarily postpone homeless sweeps a week before — and during — the upcoming annual Point in Time Count to try and ensure an accurate census of Oahu’s homeless population. Star-Advertiser.

Veggies Really Are Cheaper In Chinatown — If You Know How To Shop. The secret to bargain prices: An alternative network of local suppliers, low overhead, selling out daily and less fussiness about the perfect-shaped fruit or vegetable. Civil Beat.

New medical cannabis dispensary opening in Kaneohe. A new medical marijiana dispensary will be opening on the Windward side. KITV.

The sale of an oceanfront estate near Hawaii’s Diamond Head that belonged to the late Jim Nabors closed on Friday for $12 million to an undisclosed buyer. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Some $6.8 million in new fuel tax money barely survived a close County Council vote last month, but its future seems more assured now that the Department of Public Works has released a working list of resurfacing projects to be completed with the money. West Hawaii Today.

Keaau isn’t the only place the state has explored the idea of establishing a spaceport in recent years. Tribune-Herald.

A development expected to bring 450 units to Kailua-Kona is moving forward. Developers expect to file an application related to the project with the county’s Planning Department this week. West Hawaii Today.

The Thirty Meter Telescope keeps coming up in conversations at the Hawaii State Capitol. Big Island Video News.

National park closure creates sprawling consequences in, around Honaunau Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Developers seek to build 30-megawatt solar farms. The agreements require approval of the state Public Utilities Commission, and the documents were submitted for review Dec. 31. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Twenty-one businesses have asked the county to delay enforcement of the ban on foam containers until after they sell the last of their affected noodles, such as the popular Cup Noodles and Maruchan Instant Lunch. Maui News.

Mahi Pono could generate 1,000-plus jobs. Former lieutenant governor joins company, set to begin farming on 41,000 Maui acres, as new vice president. Maui News.

Former Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui will join Mahi Pono, LLC, as its Senior Vice President of Operations and will lead the farming venture on Maui. Maui Now.

Former Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui has been named senior vice president of operations of Mahi Pono LLC, the company that recently purchased 41,000 acres of former sugar cane land from Alexander & Baldwin Inc. Pacific Business News.

The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center on Maui is naming former state Sen. Jill Tokuda as its new executive director. Associated Press.

New Kahikinui renewable energy proposals sought. Process restarts after NextEra, Sempra efforts failThe Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is again seeking applicants for renewable energy projects in Kahikinui in southeast Maui after previous proposals, including one from a NextEra subsidiary, fell through. Maui News.

Kauai

Tourists Keep Coming To Queen’s Bath Despite The Deadly Danger. The county and a community association try to discourage visitors, especially during the wettest months, but tour books point the way. Civil Beat.

Anaina Hou Community Park’s new playground is open for business and already popular with local families, according to organizers. Garden Island.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden and Kauai Community College present their first collaborative event of 2019 in the ongoing Earth Matters public lecture series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday with a panel discussion, “Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change.” Garden Island.