Army brings long-range rockets to Schofield and Pohakuloa, Honolulu city worker paid not to work for 5 years, House includes $16.7M for East-West Center in budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Army adds long-range missiles to its arsenal in Hawaiʻi . In a media briefing Tuesday morning, the military talked about the need to add the capacity of the high mobility rocket launchers to strengthen its defenses in the Indo-Pacific, with the threat from China and North Korea. The Army plans to acquire a total of 16 of these launchers. They will have a range of 250 miles compared to the 25 to 40-mile range of howitzer cannons. Hawaii Public Radio.

ICE Is Moving Immigrants Arrested On The Mainland To Honolulu. U.S. Rep Jill Tokuda said that during a two-hour visit to the detention center on Friday, Bureau of Prisons staff told her that 77 ICE detainees were there. Civil Beat.

Hawaii schools looking into contingency plans for $33 million lost in federal funds. School officials across the state want to reassure parents and families that they are doing all they can to make sure the upcoming school year runs as smoothly as possible, despite possibly losing millions of dollars in federal funds. KHON2.

Toxoplasmosis spread by cats poses growing threat to endangered nēnē, public health. Nēnē, Hawaiʻi’s state bird, face a growing threat not just from predators—but from disease. Feral and free-roaming cats are transmitting toxoplasmosis, a parasitic disease that is increasingly killing these endangered geese, according to conservationists at Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture. Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Worker Paid Not To Work For Nearly Five Years. The employee has been paid at least $300,000 while his mileage reimbursements are investigated.  Brandon Kaaa-Swain hasn’t been to work since October 2020, but the Honolulu prosecutor’s office investigator continues to collect a taxpayer-funded paycheck.  Civil Beat.

Ex-HPD chief files $460K pay claim. Honolulu police Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan alleges he was forced to retire and is demanding the city pay him for the two years remaining on his contract. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

‘We are very shorthanded.’ Navy program dealing with forever chemicals cleanup at Red Hill has 50% vacancies. Navy leaders updated state lawmakers Monday during a House Special Committee on Red Hill on the closure of the fuel facility and clean up after the 2021 spill that contaminated Pearl Harbor’s drinking water. Hawaii News Now.

City to launch new permitting software. An effort to speed up Hono­lulu Department of Planning and Permitting’s ability to process building permit applications is scheduled to begin next month, city officials say. Star-Advertiser.

House panel proposes $16.7M for East-West Center. The East-West Center has cleared a crucial early hurdle in the federal budget process, with a U.S. House spending bill proposing $16.7 million in funding for the Hawaii-based institution — despite the White House having recommended zero dollars for the center next year. Star-Advertiser.

Possible new Hawaiʻi jail spurs discussion on reducing OCCC population. As the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation continues to consider how to replace the overcrowded and deteriorated Oʻahu Community Correctional Center, the Correctional System Oversight Commission is considering alternatives to a new, bigger jail. Hawaii Public Radio.

EAH Housing, a nonprofit affordable housing organization in Hawaii and California, today announced the start of leasing at Aloha Ia Halewiliko. The new $62 million rental community aims to provide affordable housing to older adults in ‘Aiea.  Hawaii News Now.

Ewa developer to pay $40 million to resolve lagoon suit. About 2,900 homebuyers at Ocean Pointe and Hoakalei Resort have resolved litigation against developer Haseko (Hawaii) Inc. over the company converting a planned boat marina into a recreational lagoon as the centerpiece of the master-planned community. Star-Advertiser.

Court hearing on ex-Kahuku coach’s job is set for Friday. Kahuku’s former football coach is suing the state Department of Education, a former team captain and the player’s dad alleging he was fired after confronting the player and his father, who complained about playing time in 2023. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hū Honua, Hawaiian Electric reignite plans for Hawaiʻi Island biomass plant. On June 3, the companies submitted a joint letter to the Public Utilities Commission via their attorneys that expressed their intent to file a new application for HELCO to purchase power from Hū Honua's facility in Pepeʻekeo, a few miles north of Hilo. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ownership of toppled banyan still a bit murky. The county, the state and Kamehameha Schools all have a stake in the disposal of the landmark banyan that fell. The chopped-up tree remains partially on the roof of the church and partially in the parking lot off Kilauea that serves both the church and the Wailoa State Recreation Area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Sixth West Maui TDS report shows compliance with environmental regulations. The West Maui Temporary Debris Storage (TDS) site environmental monitoring quarterly report for the sixth 90-day operational period shows the findings from sampling and monitoring are in compliance with county, state and federal environmental regulations. Maui Now.

Lahaina Energy Partnership releases new report; announces Phase 2 kickoff workshop. Local partners of the Lahaina Energy Partnership have released the “Community-Identified Energy Pathways Report.” The LEP invites all community members to join the Phase 2 Kickoff Co-Design Workshop on July 24, 2025, to continue shaping a resilient, community-guided energy plan for Lahaina. Maui Now.

Nominations, candidates sought for open judge’s position. position. The vacancy was created after District Judge Blaine Kobayashi retired on July 1 after serving as a district court judge since October 2010. Maui News. 

This Common Precursor To Murder Is Too Rarely Prosecuted On Maui. The Maui County Prosecutor’s Office is looking to crack down on domestic abuse cases involving strangulation, which experts say often precedes homicide. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Navy, NASA hosting 3 public meetings about Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kōkeʻe Park Geophysical Observatory. The U.S. Navy and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration are seeking public comment at three public meetings this week about their recently released draft Environmental Impact Statement for proposed continued use of state lands on Kaua‘i for the Pacific Missile Range Facility and Kōkeʻe Park Geophysical Observatory. Kauai Now.

What If HOAs, Not Government, Enforced Wildfire Prevention Rules? A Kauaʻi County planner thinks homeowners associations should be the first line of defense when it comes to wildfire risk. Kauaʻi County planners are pushing forward a bill to impose new landscaping and construction restrictions on five heritage plantation camp properties. Civil Beat.

Kauai CASPER survey report released. More than a third, or 35 percent, of Kauai households are very concerned, or somewhat concerned about their ability to pay the next month’s rent or mortgage.That’s according to the 2025 Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response, or CASPER survey. Garden Island.

PUC approves 18.1% hike on interisland shipping, Land Board rejects Army's Oahu lease plans, Hawaii County commission seeks pause in plastic recycling plant plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PUC approves 18.1% temporary rate hike for Young Brothers. The state Public Utilities Commission approved Friday an 18.1% temporary rate increase for Young Brothers LLC, effective Tuesday. The move comes in response to the company’s claims of financial distress that it says threatens its ability to maintain essential interisland shipping services. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. 

Governor seeks clean slate to appoint new Hawai‘i Tourism Authority board. Gov. Josh Green asked for courtesy resignations from the entire Hawai‘i Tourism Authority board following its first meeting as an advisory board Thursday — leaving the agency to process through its biggest leadership shake-up since it was created by the Legislature in 1998. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Staff Baffled By Spending Plan Filled With Dramatic Cuts, Changes. A vote comes Monday for the new budget, which some fear could undermine the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ mission. Civil Beat.

State Watchdogs Are Keeping The Pressure On For Government Reform. It includes a plan to revive a major pay-to-play bill snuffed out in the Hawaiʻi Legislature this year. Fired up by the fate of a major pay-to-play bill that died in April at the Legislature, the heads of the Campaign Spending Commission and Hawaiʻi State Ethics Commission are stepping up their efforts to lobby for reform in the 2026 session that beings in January. Civil Beat.

Governor signs measures aimed at protecting agriculture in Hawaii. A pilot program to fight agriculture-related crimes in Hawaii will go into effect July 1 on the Big Island and Oahu. The program within the state Department of Law Enforcement is intended to strengthen laws relating to agriculture theft — including cattle rustling — plus trespassing and hunting without permission on private ag land. Tribune-Herald. Maui Now.  KITV4.

Students Learn To Farm Fish, Seaweed. But Where Are The Jobs? Aquaculture is projected to become Hawaiʻi’s strongest food industry, but the state may not be doing enough to ensure there are good jobs in the future for local teens already preparing for the field.  Civil Beat.

Army land retention efforts stalled again. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5-1 Friday to reject the Army’s final environmental impact statement on potential renewal of leases on state land on Oahu. The action came after the board voted 5-1 in May to reject the Army’s FEIS on plans to retain land at the Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Culture and fish at center of debate in Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. Shortline fishers as well as Hawaii’s longliners, now have a shot at resuming fishing within the monument, which is comparable in size to the Gulf of Mexico. Star-Advertiser.

What Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship could mean for Hawaii residents. Birthright citizenship has been guaranteed under the 14th Amendment, which says any person born in the United States is automatically a citizen, regardless of their parents’ citizenship or immigration, except children of foreign diplomats. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Land board rejects Army’s final EIS. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted Friday 5-1 to reject the Army’s final environmental impact statement on plans to retain state land on Oahu after leases expire in 2029. Star-Advertiser.  Civil Beat.

Connors takes over East-West Center among budget concerns. Celeste Connors, who takes over Tuesday as the new president of the East-West Center, continues to receive emails from across Hawaii and the Indo-Pacific region about what the East-West Center has meant professionally and personally. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed Haleiwa development draws community ire. A planned housing and commercial development in Haleiwa town is being rejected by many nearby residents who say it poses a significant threat to the North Shore area’s agricultural history, rural environment and overall community. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens rally against proposed gondola ride on Oahu’s North Shore.  Dozens protested plans for a gondola spanning a portion of Mount Kaala in the Waianae mountain range. The movement to stop the proposed construction of a tramway along the mountainside has been gaining momentum for years. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

New paradigm put forth to protect ancient Hawaiian burials. The beachside town of Kailua could be designated a burial ground, affording more protection to a roughly estimated 3,000 unmarked ancient Hawaiian graves located in the community built largely on sand. Star-Advertiser.

Dog owners seek increased access to parks for furry family members. Youth sports teams say they are struggling to find available fields for their practices and games, while dog owners — knowingly or unknowingly — are ending up at de facto parks because they have nowhere else to bring their four-legged friends to play. Star-Advertiser.

Queen’s shutters clinic specializing in long COVID patients. The long COVID clinic at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu is closing today after a five-year run treating more than 500 patients. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Plan For Plastic Recycling Plant Alarms Big Island Officials, Residents. A Hawaiʻi County commission calls for a pause in the project until the state establishes rules regulating discharge of micro- and nanoplastics. A plan to launch Hawaiʻi’s first bulk recycling plant for plastic is running into determined pushback from Big Island critics who worry the recycling operation could release contaminants into the environment. Civil Beat.

UH to decommission third Maunakea telescope. The University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy is officially initiating the decommissioning process for the UH-owned UKIRT telescope, formerly known as the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

University of Hawaiʻi’s telescope dedicated in 1970 now honored for enduring impact on space exploration. University of Hawaiʻi’s 2.2-meter (88 inch) telescope on Maunakea was recognized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Milestone program for its role in shaping astronomical research worldwide.  Big Island Now.

Trump administration’s actions rattle foreign students at UH Hilo, could hurt enrollment. International students at the University of Hawaii at Hilo are grappling with anxiety about their visas, travel and social media as the university braces for a potential loss of enrollment because of those concerns. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Residents encouraged to attend in-person Lahaina Community Meeting, July 2. Residents are encouraged to attend the County of Maui’s Lahaina Community Meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at the Lahaina Intermediate School cafeteria. Maui Now.

Pair honored for nearly 40 years of work at Maui homeless center. James Worley and John Decker have helped people facing homelessness find housing on Maui through their volunteer work as board members for the nonprofit Ka Hale A Ke Ola Resource Center. The two were honored Thursday for their longtime contribution to the community. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua’i conservation leaders hope Hawaiʻi’s new Green Fee will prioritize environmental initiatives, not tourism. Kauaʻi nonprofit Malama Hule’ia planned to use a $750,000 federal grant to purchase an aquatic excavator to remove invasive red mangrove around the Hule’ia river watershed in Lihu’e. Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi’s Embattled Drug Addiction Treatment Center For Youth Is No Longer Empty. A new treatment option for drug-dependent youth on Kauaʻi is breathing life into the island’s troubled $7 million adolescent treatment center, a taxpayer-funded facility that fell into disrepair over the four years that it stood vacant.  Civil Beat.

Community encouraged to complete Waimea 400 Affordable Housing Survey by today. The County of Kauai Housing Agency is encouraging community members to provide their input on the Waimea 400 Affordable Housing Master Plan by completing an online survey by today.  Garden Island.
 

Hawaii trails up for review, Army proposes downsizing Oahu training grounds, Trump cuts threaten broadband access, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State seeks public input on Nā Ala Hele Trail program. The program, part of the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife, manages hundreds of miles of trails and access roads across the state. Nā Ala Hele is updating its program plan, originally created in 1991, and seeks community input. Big Island Now.

Hawaii hopes to restore ‘racist’ broadband access grant canceled by president. Hawaii’s lieutenant governor is scrambling to find money to replace a broadband access grant that President Donald Trump terminated — a grant he called “racist” and a “woke giveaway.” Hawaii News Now.

In Hawaiʻi, Drowning Leading Cause Of Death For Tourists, Children Under 15. The Department of Health says data shows Hawaiʻi’s resident drowning rate is the second highest in the nation, and most drowned in swimming pools. Big Island Video News.

Bill To Guard Against Imitation Hawaiian Tea Could End Up Hurting Industry. Māmaki producers say they support efforts to protect Hawaiʻi-grown products but fear this bill could put companies out of business. Civil Beat.

Movies And TV Shows Left Hawaiʻi. The Workers Followed. With the loss of productions came a decline in film jobs and spending in the state. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Loyal travelers with Hawaiian Airlines are being told not to worry as their HawaiianMiles are safe. The program will eventually be phased out because of the merger with Alaska Airlines.  KHON2.

Oahu

Army Proposes Downsizing Its Training Grounds On Oʻahu. Those include parts of the Kahuku Training Area that aren’t used for ground maneuvers as well as all 4,390 acres in the Kawailoa-Poamoho Training Area that for the last decade have almost exclusively been used for aviation training, according to the Army’s final environmental impact statement posted online Thursday night. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

City Council approves $40K Liquor Commission settlement. Litigation involving the Honolulu Liquor Commission and one of its former investigators who claimed discrimination, harassment and a hostile work environment based on his sexual orientation while working for the agency has advanced toward a settlement. Star-Advertiser.

EMS director says ‘ambulances are safe’ after recent fire sparks concerns.  Investigators with the Honolulu Fire Department are looking into what sparked an ambulance fire over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Gondola development project proposed for North Shore. Mt. Kaala is the tallest peak on Oahu, and the owner of Adventure Group in Canada owns 2,300 acres in Waialua and plans to develop it. KHON2.

West Loch Disaster remembrance planned. The Obama Hawaiian Africana Museum and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency will host a remembrance ceremony Wednesday at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl honoring the anniversary of the deadly 1944 West Loch Disaster. Star-Advertiser.

Waikīkī restaurant worries tariff on Japan will affect Wagyu beef prices. Jack Sinanaj, the owner of Empire Steak House Hawaii in Waikīkī, is concerned about a 24% tariff on A-5 Wagyu beef from Japan — a small but real way the Trump administration's tariffs could impact local businesses. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Punaluu Village project thwarted. Black Sand Beach LLC had plans to develop Punalu‘u Village on 147 acres inland of Punaluu Bay in Kaʻu, where endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles nest. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County not accepting permit applications May 23-25 due to system update. The County of Hawaiʻi Department of Public Works will update its Electronic Process Information System for permit applications on May 23 to improve the site’s performance and change the service fees. Big Island Now.

Maui

Reef-Friendly Landscaping Summit launches to protect Kāʻanapali’s shoreline. The Pilikahakai Foundation, a nonprofit rooted in Native Hawaiian values and dedicated to preserving Kāʻanapali Beach, hosted its inaugural Reef-Friendly Landscaping Summit over the weekend, aimed at advancing sustainable land care practices that protect West Maui’s coastline.  Maui Now.

Planned Parenthood to offer vasectomy services on Maui. Planned Parenthood expects to start offering vasectomy services at its Honolulu and Kahului Health Centers with procedures beginning June 12 and 13. Maui News.

National award recognizes Molokaʻi's efforts to improve the health of its land and people. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Culture of Health Prize celebrates communities across the U.S. that highlight locally-led solutions to healthier futures. Molokaʻi was one of nine communities awarded this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Petroleum company on Kaua‘i cited for hazardous waste violations. The Hawai‘i Department of Health issued a Notice of Violation and Order against IES Downstream, a limited liability company, for violating the state’s hazardous waste management laws at its ‘Ele‘ele storage terminal on Kaua‘i. Kauai Now.

SurfRider Foundation Kaua‘i releases monthly water quality tests for beaches, streams. Water quality in several Kaua‘i streams had overwhelming levels of bacteria recorded during the SurfRider Foundation’s monthly testing in May. Kauai Now.

Army's last remaining live-fire training in jeopardy at Pohakuloa, 1-4 hurricanes predicted this season, Honolulu to allow private sponsorship of public facilities, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Is The Military In For A Wake-Up Call As Hawaiʻi Leases Near End? The state’s rejection of the U.S. Army’s environmental assessment of impacts of its training may foreshadow the future, one some Native Hawaiians say won’t be smooth sailing.  Civil Beat.

Gov. Green on balancing national security and the environment in military land leases.  The Army says Pōhakuloa is the only remaining place where it conducts live-fire training for its troops and for the state’s first responders. But the community has resisted, with some arguing the leases should not be renewed. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii troops forge alliances in Philippines. The 40th iteration of the Exercise Balikatan — Tagalog for “shoulder to shoulder” — brought in service members from the U.S. as well as troops from Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, France and Canada. Among them were troops from Hawaii-based units. Star-Advertiser.

Forecasters predict 1 to 4 hurricanes this season. With hurricane season beginning June 1, Hawaii officials are urging residents to prepare now as forecasters predict near- to below- normal tropical cyclone activity in the Central Pacific this year. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  Maui News.  Hawaii News Now.

See Which Hawaiʻi Agencies Have Been Hit Hardest By Trump Funding Cuts. The total amount of confirmed federal funding cuts to Hawaiʻi state and county programs as of Thursday stands at nearly $95 million, according to figures compiled by Civil Beat. The full extent of the cuts won’t be clear for several more weeks or longer as official termination letters must be issued and legal challenges resolved. Civil Beat.

For the first time in seven years, tuition is increasing across the University of Hawaii system beginning this fall. The 2% increase was approved by the UH Board of Regents in 2023 as part of a four-year tuition schedule. KHON2.

UH risks losing $78 million in federal research funds due to cuts. In a report to the Board of Regents on Thursday, UH President Wendy Hensel said the university expects to lose more than $78 million in federal research funding due to recent grant cancellations and suspensions. KHON2.

Hawaiʻi Electricity Shut-Offs Are Nearly Triple Pre-Pandemic Levels. Expiring post-Covid payment plans, state’s cost of living blamed for spike in residential disconnections. Civil Beat.

Tourism agency brings back passenger counts after data blip. The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism has restored passenger counts from international and domestic travelers, correcting at least part of the blip in data caused by the pilot program for a digitized agriculture disclosure form. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Council OKs sponsorship of public facilities. Legislation to allow private sponsorship of city parks and other public facilities in order to garner more revenue for the city was unanimously adopted Wednesday by the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council approves property tax-fueled fund for climate projects. The measure would deposit 1.5% of property tax revenue into a fund dedicated to climate resiliency. That’s about $8.6 million a year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Navy to remove USS Arizona mooring platforms after 80 years. The U.S. Navy will be placing buoys and anchors in Pearl Harbor waters next week to prepare for the removal of decades-old mooring platforms on the USS Arizona. Hawaii News Now.

Manoa Falls Trail closed due to fallen tree limb, bamboo. Manoa Falls Trail was closed Thursday after a large tree limb fell, bringing down a large swath of bamboo with it. Three people sustained minor injuries. Hawaii News Now.

HPD seizes cash, gambling machines in Kalihi. When police raided the operation and how many devices and cash was confiscated during the operation was not immediately made public. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Kona property housing migrants under investigation for code violations. A Kona property where dozens of migrants were reportedly living in poor conditions is now under scrutiny by Hawaii County building enforcement officials. KHON2.

Admission fees back on the table for Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens. Admission fees at Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens are back on the table as Hawaiʻi County is moving forward with revised proposed rule changes for the Pana‘ewa Recreational Complex. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County taxpayers encouraged to weigh in on budget proposal. Despite a whopping $1.5 billion proposed budget for fiscal year 2026, Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen proposed tax cuts for owner-occupied homes. Hawaii News Now.

Arts program for Maui fire survivors loses White House funding. The Archive for Health, Arts, and Spirit has been able to provide an arts for healing program to residents with a $100,000 grant from the White House Initiative on Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Property owner troubled by ICE raid that turned up ‘nothing’.  The property owner is criticizing the manner in which armed Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents rousted her and her family, along with other occupants including Philippine teachers with visas, at a multi-family dwelling in Kahului. Maui News.

DOH issues red placard to Maui L&L on Dairy Road for a cockroach infestation. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health, Maui Food Safety Branch issued a red “closed” placard and immediately closed a Maui location of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue owned and operated by Maui L & L Food Inc. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i councilman announces run for mayor. Bernard Carvalho Jr. announced his candidacy on Wednesday at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall in Līhu‘e. While he currently serves as a council member, Carvalho previously served as mayor from 2000-2018.  Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i Bus launches new tap-and-ride system. The Kaua‘i Bus has a new account-based ticketing system powered by Masabi’s Justride open platform. Kauai Now.

Dorcey and Smith are ‘Outstanding’.  Ten Kauai older adults who were nominated by the public were honored and recognized for their service. Garden Island.

New climate pattern affecting island rainfall, governor calls HTA a 'hot mess,' Honolulu mulls surveillance cameras at public parks, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

It’s not just El Niño — new climate phenomenon impacts Hawai‘i rainfall. While most people know about El Niño and how it impacts the weather, a new study from University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa shows another climate pattern influences rainfall across the Islands, particularly during the spring season: the Pacific Meridional Mode.  Maui Now.

Governor calls Hawaii Tourism Authority ‘hot mess,’ promises reform. Hawaii’s most powerful tourism agency is about to be upended as the governor and lawmakers lose patience with the leadership and infighting among its leaders. Supporters say new legislation will shift power away from tourism insiders to the public. Hawaii News Now.

Army, allies ponder Pacific role. The Association of the United States Army’s annual Land Power in the Pacific Conference, which brings together armies from across the Pacific and beyond, has attracted participants from a record 32 countries, including 16 national chiefs of army. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii braces for Energy Star’s demise. Hawaii Energy, a ratepayer- funded program that encourages residents and businesses to make smart energy choices — from appliances to air conditioners and water heaters — is the primary administrator of Energy Star programming in the state on behalf of the Public Utilities Commission. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Video surveillance at public parks under review.  The Honolulu City Council  is scheduled to hold a first reading today on Resolution 128, which seeks to authorize the use of video surveillance at Oahu’s public parks in order to deter crime and to provide “a safe environment for city residents, visitors and employees.” Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Eyes Changes To Hanauma Bay Reservation System. That would mean that 500 of the non-resident 1,400 visitors per day could be bused to the popular snorkeling destination on a schedule Wednesday through Sunday, leaving 900 slots available to book online. Hawaiʻi residents get to bypass the reservation system. Civil Beat.

Disgraced Police Chief Louis Kealoha Still Owes Honolulu $250,000. Years after his corruption conviction, the ex-chief hasn’t returned his retirement money to taxpayers as promised.  Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council plans to track projects passed in the budget. The Honolulu City Council will be implementing better tracking methods to determine whether or not projects they pass in the budget are being followed through with. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sabotaged signal: New images reveal severed cables that cut communication for thousands. The damaged lines were discovered around 2 p.m. Saturday near Heeia State Park, but officials say impacts from the act of vandalism were felt from Waimanalo to Laie. Hawaii News Now.

Illegal game room assets in Kalihi turned over to state. More than $63,000 and assets of other equipment that Honolulu police acquired in an illegal game room bust Thursday will go to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

West Hawaii post office renamed in honor of Vietnam War hero. The U.S. Postal Service and the office of Rep. Jill Tokuda held a dedication ceremony on Saturday at the Captain Cook Post Office in honor of Army 1st Lt. John Kuulei Kauhaihao, who was killed in action on Sept. 5, 1969, in the Tay Ninh Province of the Republic of Vietnam. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Nareit Foundation seeks shovel-ready projects for its annual grant considerations. This year, applicants should be implementing projects that provide affordable housing for sale or rent.  Big Island Now.

Big Island drought worsens in April. Leeward areas of the Big Island already are showing the shift toward the summer wet season, but the windward side, which is entering the dry season, continues to be drier than normal. Tribune-Herald.

Parts of Hilo to experience water outage late Friday. A water outage will affect Hilo International Airport and surrounding areas from 10 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Saturday. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Maui

Kamaʻāina Credit program poised for approval as part of Council’s budget package. With first reading of the Maui County Council’s $1.56 billion budget set for Friday, one of the line items up for approval in the fiscal 2026 budget is $12 million for Maui United Way’s Countywide ALICE Initiative: Kamaʻāina Credit program. Maui Now.

Department of ʻŌiwi Resources to invest approximately $450K in 9 local projects. The County of Maui Department of ʻŌiwi Resources is investing approximately $450,000 into nine projects under its core divisions, Kīpuka, Kumuwaiola and Pai Ka Leo. Maui Now.

Surfing returns to Lahaina Harbor, evoking excitement, healing for competitors. The Maui Interscholastic League (MIL) surfing championships marked the first organized surfing event at Lahaina Harbor since August 2023. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Students, families prepare for Kauaʻi Community College commencement. More than 100 students will officially graduate from Kauaʻi Community College during its 99th year on Friday. Kauai Now.

Army seeks to renew military land leases, legislators reach tentative tax break deal, governor proposes expansion of homeless villages, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Military training areas in Hawaii under scrutiny. Several state lawmakers and mayors toured Army facilities Monday and witnessed training on Oahu and Hawaii Island with Gen. Charles Flynn, the service’s top commander in the Pacific. The Army has been proactively preparing for what could be a fight to renew leases on state land that the military trains on, which are set to expire in 2029.  Star-Advertiser.

Tentative deal reached on tax breaks as legislative session enters home stretch.  Key lawmakers say they have reached a tentative agreement on tax breaks for Hawaii residents. The news comes as the legislative session enters the home stretch Monday, with the first formal negotiation session over the $20 billion state budget. Hawaii News Now.

Green’s First Veto: A Condo Bill That Could Have Increased The Cost Of Housing. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green issued the first veto of his administration on Friday, rejecting a bill that was supposed to clarify an unusual scenario in which condominium owners sued the developer of their project for construction flaws more than a decade after construction was finished. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Governor Plans To Develop More Tiny Home Villages Statewide. Gov. Josh Green promised more tiny home villages will be built around the state, regardless of opposition from local communities, as his administration tackles homelessness.  Civil Beat.

DOH urges vigilance following second case of measles on Oahu. The state Department of Health on Monday confirmed a second case of measles on Oahu. The resident was exposed to the previously confirmed case in an international traveler. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Oahu

Homeless ‘medical respite’ kauhale planned on Oahu.  Gov. Josh Green plans to expand his homeless kauhale village concept within a month to erect the state’s first “medical respite” kauhale for homeless people across from The Queen’s Medical Center “in my backyard” for eight to 10 homeless people at a time who disproportionately use emergency rooms only to end up back on the street, Green said. Star-Advertiser.

Controversial 6-foot-tall walls remain in latest Ala Wai flood mitigation proposal. The latest flood mitigation plan for the Ala Wai Canal is starting to take shape, and it still includes large walls that have been unpopular with the public. Hawaii Public Radio.

Conflict Of Interest? Neighborhood Board Employees Are Running For Seats On The Boards. Questions are being raised about whether as elected board members the employees can effectively question their bosses. Nine employees of the Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office, the city agency that oversees Oahu’s 33 neighborhood boards, have signed up to run for elected seats on the boards themselves. Civil Beat.

Prominent Honolulu Condo Board Members Are On Trial For Alleged Retaliation. The lawsuits claims the Hokua board members used their positions to help themselves and each other without disclosing conflicts of interest. Testing a Hawaii law prohibiting retaliation by condominium boards, a trial began on Monday pitting a retired Army officer against several prominent members of Hawaii’s real estate and development community who served alongside the retired officer as directors of one of Honolulu’s landmark luxury condominiums. Civil Beat.

Bishop Museum probe ends with no findings. An investigation of the board of directors of Bishop Museum prompted by a formal complaint from loyalists of the ousted president and CEO has found no financial mismanagement or wrongdoing. Star-Advertiser.

Slew of rescues highlight hiker safety. After a series of hike rescues over the weekend, state officials are reminding people to take precautions, know their limits and be aware how hot it can get on exposed trails. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Green weighs in on feral cats: Governor sending DLNR chief to the Big Island following protest in Waikoloa. Gov. Josh Green said Monday he’s dispatching Department of Land and Natural Resources Director Dawn Chang to the Big Island today “to work out a peaceful solution” between DLNR, owners and mangers of the Queen’s Marketplace, and feral cat advocates who feed the felines behind the Waikoloa Beach shopping center. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i County seeking proposals for affordable housing funding. Up to $18 million will soon be available to qualified applicants working to increase, support, or sustain the availability of affordable housing in Hawaiʻi County. Big Island Now.

Draft EA offers more details about Pohoiki ramp dredging. The reopening of the Pohoiki Boat Ramp is one step closer after a draft environmental assessment for the dredging project was published Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Rules That Seek To Better Protect Maui’s Coastlines Will Take Effect Soon. Planning officials are paving the way for some big changes with how the local government controls development and construction projects close to and along Maui’s coastlines. Civil Beat.

Maui median home price is $1.2M, up 1.9% in March 2023. The last time Maui’s median was above $1.2 million was in June of 2022 when the median was $1.242M. Maui Now. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i police warn of ongoing thefts targeting residents and visitors. According to officials, a recent rash of car break-ins and thefts have occurred in residential neighborhoods islandwide. Kauai Now.

Hospital questioned over Spam promotion, Army rangers train for jungle warfare, Pearl Harbor parking fees begin soon, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Local favorite Spam draws health scrutiny as processed meats are linked to cancer.  The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in February drafted a letter to The Queen’s Medical Center questioning its sponsorship of the Waikiki Spam Jam Festival set for April 29. Star-Advertiser.

Elite Army rangers train in Hawaii as Pacific interest grows. Members of the Army’s elite 75th Ranger Regiment who have been in Hawaii the past two weeks. The Pentagon has been shifting its attention to the Pacific amid tensions with China, and soldiers are training for the potential of a very different sort of war. Star-Advertiser.

Military in Hawaii face possible pay reduction. Most military service members in Hawaii are facing a possible pay cut of around 4.6% amid persistent high inflation as the Department of Defense contemplates amending its cost of living allowance for armed forces personnel outside the contiguous United States. Star-Advertiser.

Government transparency bills go before Hawaii governor. Bills aiming for greater transparency from lawmakers and state boards have gone to Gov. Josh Green. Four bills are on Green’s desk, and 11 are still alive and have crossed over to their opposite chamber. Star-Advertiser.

Senate rejects Gov. Green’s cabinet nominations for DBEDT, Office of Planning. Lawmakers did not confirm Scott Glenn as the head of the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development. Senators also voted against Chris Sadayasu, the Gov.'s pick to lead the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Potential raises for Dept. of Education executives draws concern from Hawaii residents. The State Board of Education's working on considering, approving and finalizing pay increases for many executives, including superintendents. KITV4.

Lawmakers reject proposal to make Indigenous Peoples' Day a state holiday.  Instead, legislators are proposing a day of observance — meaning no time off from work. Hawaii Public Radio.

Henry Curtis Has Been A ‘Thorn In The Side’ Of Developers And Power Company Execs For 30 Years. The inside baseball of energy policy goes way over the heads of most people. In-the-weeds details about microgrids, transmission lines, tariffs, grid stability, fuel supply and price volatility can lull even the most chronic insomniacs to sleep. But for Henry Curtis, energy policy minutia has the opposite effect. Civil Beat.

Proposed farm bills could usher in new era for Hawaiʻi's food system. Roughly every five years, federal lawmakers have the opportunity to take a hard look at the country's agricultural policy and update their vision for the U.S. food system.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Pandemic delays reporting on Hawaii’s hospital infections. The state Department of Health has fallen several years behind in producing annual reports detailing infections patients acquire during hospital stays, leaving the public with less information about how well health care facilities are doing in controlling the spread of pathogens that can prove deadly. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate remains at 3.6%. Hawaii’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.6% in February as the state’s labor market remained virtually unchanged. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Miscommunication creates confusion as scrutiny is raised for Ala Wai project. The plan for a multimillion-dollar flood control project that aims to prevent a disaster in Waikiki and the Ala Wai watershed now will include a more comprehensive environmental study, according to a notice filed by the Army Corps of Engineers. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed Honolulu High Rise Is Pitting Residents And Neighborhood Boards Against City Officials. The Kobayashi Group is moving ahead with a 43-story residential high rise that will take the place of 124 rental units on Kapiolani Boulevard. Civil Beat.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial parking fees to begin April 15. Parking fees at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial will be $7 per day. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki tourism rebounding from pandemic lows. COVID-19 has created lingering challenges as well as permanent business losses and closures. It also created opportunities for those waiting to break into Waikiki’s normally tight commercial real estate market.  Star-Advertiser.

Palolo residents brainstorm boulder mitigation strategies. After a boulder crashed through a Palolo home in January, residents mulled over possible measures to prevent more rocks from breaking loose from the valley’s ridges above and causing further damage and even serious injury. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

City’s schedule for Prince Kūhiō Day. City and County of Honolulu offices will be closed in observance of Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole Day, Monday, March 27. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Judge: ‘Seeing Is Believing’ When It Comes To ‘Atrocious’ Conditions At The Hilo Jail. Big Island Chief Judge Judge Robert Kim, who toured the packed facility in January, has been refusing to send some defendants to the jail, letting them await trial at home. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i County finally nearing finish line to make all beach parks ADA compliant. Several county-owned parks have undergone or are currently being renovated to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Big Island Now.

‘Losing momentum’ in albizia battle: Officials look for solutions as funding dwindles. As funding for albizia removal on the Big Island dries up, the invasive trees — and the danger they pose — are spreading again. Tribune-Herald.

Conceptual plans for Holualoa Elementary unveiled. Holualoa Elementary held a School Community Council meeting to discuss plans for the future and new possible school designs amid concerns of mold and other potential health hazards at the 128-year-old school. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor’s $1B budget request calls for a slight increase. Proposal includes a decline in some real property taxes, rise in monthly water rates. Maui News.

Maui Solar Project Stokes Concerns About Climate-Fueled Fire And Flooding Risks. The Paeahu solar farm, located in a dryland forest, would operate a short distance from a residential subdivision. Civil Beat.

Final EA Approved For Mosquito Suppression Technique To Save Native Birds. The Hawaiʻi Board of Land and Natural Resources voted in favor of a Final Environmental Assessment to use an Incompatible Insect Technique on Maui. Big Island Video News.

MFD working on planning, design of Haiku fire station. The Maui Fire Department hopes to finalize funding for a Haiku fire station by 2025 and have it operable by around 2026 in a “best-case scenario” for the long-stalled project, Fire Chief Brad Ventura said.  Maui News.

Kauai

Koloa Rum to build new facility in Koloa. The Kaua‘i-based rum company is planning on moving its operations to an 18.5-acre parcel of land across from Anne Knudsen Park in Koloa.  Garden Island.

Coco Palms Resort to be rebuilt. The latest developer of Kaua‘i’s infamous Coco Palms Resort is officially prepping for the site’s demolition and reconstruction, and he says people can expect the new resort to be completed in about three years. Garden Island.

State COVID case counting system fails again, churches, protests exempt from social gathering regulations, Honolulu police shoot man wielding machete, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID cases spike in Hawaii

Tech Problems Lead To Undercount In Hawaii COVID Cases. Wednesday’s COVID-19 case total of 472 is a partial count. The electronic laboratory reporting system was interrupted for approximately 20 hours on Monday, Aug. 10 and Tuesday, Aug. 11. As a result of this interruption, there has been a delay in the reporting of an unknown number of cases, according to the DOH. It’s the second time the state’s coronavirus count has been interrupted in two weeks. Civil Beat. Big Island Now. Maui Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Churches are exempt from Hawaii’s new COVID restrictions. When Gov. David Ige announced on Tuesday that he was immediately imposing stiff limits on the number of people that can occupy social establishments, reimposing social distancing requirements and prohibiting mingling in an attempt to rein in soaring COVID-19 case counts, he exempted churches. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

2 mainland travelers arrested in Honolulu for alleged fake vaccine cards, AG says. Authorities from the Hawaii Attorney General’s office arrested two visitors from the mainland for allegedly attempting to skirt the state’s Safe Travels program. The AG’s office said the travelers were arrested Sunday at the Daniel K. Inouye Airport. Investigators found they were allegedly violation of the travel rules for using fake vaccination cards to come to the islands. Falsifying a vaccination statute comes with a fine of up to $5,000 and/or a year in prison. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

New website offers remote work opportunities for Hawaii residents. A new website consolidates programs for Hawaii residents seeking remote work opportunities and employers looking to hire. KHON2. KITV4.

Election Violations Prompt New Vote For Hawaii Hotel Union Leadership. Some members say the Unite Here Local 5 election do-over is still unfair to opposition candidates and members who were out of work during the pandemic. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu police officers fatally shoot machete-wielding man. Honolulu police fatally shot a 41-year-old man after he allegedly severed a man’s pinky finger with a machete and rushed toward a responding police officer with the large knife near an illegal game room in Kalihi early Wednesday,  according to bystanders and police. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press.

HPD’s body camera policy once again raising questions following latest police shooting. When police shot and killed a man wielding a machete in Kalihi Wednesday morning, one of the officers failed to activate his body camera, multiple sources said. Hawaii News Now.

Ann Botticelli Wins Seat On The Honolulu Police Commission. It was Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s third attempt to fill the seventh seat on the oversight commission. Civil Beat.

Narrow Council Vote Propels Anthony Aalto Onto The HART Board. No prior board nominee in HART’s decade-long history received the same public scrutiny over qualifications and potential conflicts as Aalto did, reflecting a growing unease with the project. Civil Beat.

Group opposes Army training and lease extension at Makua. Some in opposition to the Army’s proposed retention of 6,300 acres of state leased land for training on Oahu are taking it to the street as 65-year leases run out in 2029 and are now up for reconsideration. Star-Advertiser.

Groundbreaking begins in Kapolei for state’s largest stand-alone battery system. Crews broke ground in west Oahu on Wednesday on what will be the state’s largest stand-alone battery system. Independent developer, Plus Power, said the Kapolei Energy Storage facility will eventually take over the power load from the AES coal plant, providing a more environmentally friendly source for electricity. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Pacific University to welcome record number of new students. Hawaii Pacific University will welcome a record number of new students in the fall despite a national trend of declining college enrollment amid the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Ex-Soldier Convicted of Teen's 1982 Murder Cannot Get DNA Test. A federal appeals court ruling Tuesday urged Congress to correct a disparity that doesn't allow members of the U.S. military convicted by a court-martial the same avenues as civilian prisoners to seek DNA testing that could exonerate them. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

Rejected Leeward Planning Commission nominee files ethics complaint against council members. A rejected nominee to the Leeward Planning Commission has filed an ethics complaint against four of the five council members who voted not to confirm her, claiming they discriminated against her because she’s a real estate professional. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Muni Golf Course Restaurant Concession Up For Bid. Interested vendors must submit their intent to bid by 2 p.m. on August 26, and final bids must be submitted by 2 p.m. on September 7, 2021. Big Island Video News.

More COVID cases in E. Hawaii long-term care homes. Four employees and 14 residents have tested positive for the novel coronavirus at Life Care Center of Hilo amid a second outbreak in the facility, according to an update posted on the facility’s website Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

South Kohala fire’s cost still being tallied. Hawaii Fire Department Chief Kazuo Todd, however, indicated Wednesday that the bill will be significant for battling the fire that broke out July 30 and scorched 40,000-acre-plus fire, destroying two homes, before containment was reached Friday. Crews continue to douse hotspots and flareups within the burn area. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Victorino Discusses Critical Issues Facing Maui County Today. In an interview with Maui Now, Mayor Victorino identified that the new Delta variant and Delta plus of the coronavirus as the greatest challenge facing the county. Maui Now.

New state COVID rules already exist for Maui County. Maui County leaders also clarified that they don’t categorize the First Amendment right to assemble and petition as a “social gathering.” Maui News.

Credit Unions Donated $2,500 and 2,300 Pounds of Goods to Maui Food Bank. The coalition includes: Kahului Federal Credit Union, Maui Federal Credit Union, Maui Teachers Federal Credit Union, Valley Isle Community Federal Credit Union and Wailuku Federal Credit Union. Maui Now.

Kauai

$370K granted to Kaua‘i nonprofits. Eleven Kaua‘i organizations have received a combined $370,000 in grants from the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. Garden Island.

KPD to enforce ‘move-over law’. The Kaua‘i Police Department is urging motorists to drive with aloha and obey all traffic laws, including the “move-over law” (Hawai‘i Revised Statutes 291C-27) that requires drivers to slow down to a reasonable speed that is safe under the circumstances and, if possible, make a lane change in order to leave one lane between the driver and an emergency vehicle or situation. Garden Island.

Ige mulls new COVID restrictions as hospitals erect triage tents, quarantine spaces dwindle, anti-VAX rallies rage across the state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Anti-VAX rally on Maui PC:Annette Ammasi public Facebook post

Gov. David Ige looking at new COVID-19 restrictions for Hawaii. Gov. David Ige is looking at reimposing restrictions, including limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings, to try to dampen the surge in COVID-19 cases that’s threatening to overwhelm the state’s health care system. He’s expected to make an announcement by the end of the week. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Doesn’t Have Enough Quarantine Rooms For COVID Patients. COVID-19 patients need more isolation facilities and state help than ever, but far fewer hotel rooms are available. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Several Hawaii hospitals put up triage tents to deal with COVID hospital rise. Hospitals statewide are full and running above normal capacity, and the situation is getting worse by the day. KHON2.

Ige Urges People To Limit Interactions Amid COVID Surge. COVID-19 hospitalizations are exponentially climbing as the delta variant drives state coronavirus positivity rate past 7%. Civil Beat.

Ige stands behind decision to begin in-person learning. Gov. David Ige on Monday stood firm in the decision of state leaders to return students to in-person learning amid the ongoing surge of COVID-19. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Airlines issues vaccine mandate for all employees in U.S. Hawaiian Airlines, the state’s largest air carrier, will require all of its United States-based employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as of Nov. 1. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.  

New Secretary of Army, Christine Wormuth, supports renewal of training ground leases. The top civilian within the Department of Defense was visiting Oahu on Monday as part of a three-state tour where she also will visit installations in Washington state and Alaska. She landed here Sunday and is scheduled to leave today. Star-Advertiser.

Officials seek funds to manage land, curb wildfires. Michael Walker, state protection forester of the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife, plans to request at least $1 million from the state Legislature next year to establish a wildfire fuel reduction program.  Star-Advertiser.

DOH: 1 death, 437 new COVID-19 cases reported statewide Monday. 67 new cases were reported in Hawaii County, 16 in Kauai County, 52 on Maui, 4 on Molokai,  293 on Oahu, and 5 cases out of state. KITV4.

Oahu

State lawmakers seek answers on contractor’s death at UH athletic field. State lawmakers are digging in to find out who is responsible for a deadly construction accident at the University of Hawaii’s new home for football. Work is being done at the school’s Clarence TC Ching Athletics Complex on lower campus. Hawaii News Now.

Future of Waikīkī Beaches May Rely on $12M Shoreline Stabilization Project. Waikīkī’s iconic beaches may be getting a $12 million facelift as part of the state’s effort to increase the shoreline’s resilience to climate change, coastal erosion, and sea level rise. Hawaii Public Radio.

Waikīkī Restaurants Still Face Challenges Despite Crowds of Visitors and Locals. Even in good times, successful restaurants in Hawaiʻi operate on very lean profit margins. This is due to the usual challenges that eateries face — rent, food costs, utilities, and labor. But for months, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down dining rooms across the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Staffing shortages leave critical posts unmanned at Hawaii’s largest prison. Adult Corrections Officers at Halawa Correctional Facility are being forced to work 24, even 36 hour shifts to cover. Hawaii News Now.

Vaccine-or-test COVID-19 mandates in Hawaii spur protest rally. About 200 people Monday peacefully descended on Honolulu Hale and the state Capitol to rail against public and private employers in Hawaii forcing workers to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or take weekly infection tests. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Hilo, Honokaa reach ‘herd immunity’. Hilo and Honokaa are leading the Big Island in the percentage of the population vaccinated for COVID-19. West Hawaii Today.

90-unit affordable house project proposed for Hilo. A draft environmental assessment for a proposed 90-unit affordable housing project for seniors and families in Hilo has an anticipated finding of no significant impact. Tribune-Herald.

Upgrades coming to Hawi wind farm. Improvements, but not an increase in wind turbines, are coming to the Hawi Energy wind farm at Upolu Point as the company proposes a 20-year extension to its power purchase agreement with Hawaiian Electric Co. West Hawaii Today.

Kona Trolley Relaunched As Hele-On Route 201. The Kona Trolley is the new Route 201, operating 7 days a week as part of a new Hele-On transit services to be incorporated in Kailua-Kona. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

BLNR to mull fine for conservation easement damage. A Kona coffee grower has agreed to fund the planting of hundreds of Native Hawaiian trees as part of a settlement meted with the state for damaging a conservation easement in 2019. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaiʻi Community Foundation Granted $7 Million to 194 Nonprofits, 27 in Maui County. Hawai‘i Community Foundation today announced $7 million in awards from its CHANGE Grants program to 194 nonprofits statewide, including 27 in Maui County, that are working to address some of the state’s most difficult challenges. Maui Now.

Maui Rally Draws 500, Seeking Freedom of Choice Amid Vaccination & Mask Mandates. Organizers say an estimated 500 people attended today’s rally fronting the State Office and County buildings in Wailuku, Maui, calling for freedom of choice amid further vaccination mandates announced in recent days. Maui Now. Maui News.

Kauai

KIUC cancels WKEP Talk Story today. Due to the recent rise in COVID-19 cases and increased evidence of community spread of the virus, Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative is postponing the launch of the West Kaua‘i Energy Project “Talk Story Tuesday” community outreach program. Garden Island.

COVID testing urged for customers of Kauai’s Tahiti Nui restaurant in Hanalei. The Department of Health said on Monday they identified a cluster tied to the Hanalei restaurant. At least seven known cases have been confirmed so far in both workers and customers. Hawaii News Now.

Residents, county and state workers and parents protest vaccinations Monday. About 75 people were gathered around 11 a.m., at the intersection of Hardy and Eiwa streets in Lihu‘e, many protesting vaccinations, testing for COVID-19 in workplace settings, mask mandates and vaccine requirements. Garden Island.