Showing posts with label U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono. Show all posts
Showing posts with label U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono. Show all posts

Friday, February 2, 2024

Lawmakers mull statewide vacation rental ban, HECO cleared to spend $190M to harden electric grid, money pouring in to campaign coffers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A Statewide Ban On Vacation Rentals? The Idea Is Gaining Steam After The Maui Fires. Lawmakers are considering making it easier for counties to do away with short-term rentals altogether. Currently, 5.5% or 30,000 of Hawaii’s 557,000 total housing units operate as short-term rentals, according to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization’s “Hawaii Housing Factbook,” published in June. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Gets The Green Light On Its $190 Million Resiliency Plan To Harden The Grid. State energy regulators have given their conditional approval to a five-year, $190 million plan by Hawaiian Electric to retool some of the most vulnerable parts of its grid as the company looks to address wildfire dangers and other threats related to climate change. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.  KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric says to prepare for outages ahead of severe weather. Hawaiian Electric is urging customers to prepare ahead of time for the heavy rains and winds forecast to hit most of the state on Friday and Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian, Alaska leaders tout airline deal. The top executives of Hawaiian and Alaska airlines said their companies are moving forward on an upcoming merger that they characterized as pro-consumer and pro-competitive because it allows them to compete more effectively in an industry dominated by larger carriers Delta, United, American and Southwest, which together make up 80% of the U.S. market. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Should the state increase the unemployment compensation? Some said it’s needed to offset the high cost of living, especially after the Maui wildfires. Others fear it would only encourage apathy. KHON2.

Preschool subsidies expand to Hawaii families over income limit.
An estimated 2,000 more preschool children across the state are expected to receive early childhood education through subsidies made possible after the Legislature in 2023 increased funding to $50 million from $12 million to expand the “Preschool Open Doors” program, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers push back on state's $2M request to fight youth-led climate change lawsuit. Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Karl Rhoads would rather see the money go toward implementing policies that reduce emissions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hirono Posts Solid Fundraising Numbers In Reelection Bid. More than six months out from primary day, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono has nearly $1.8 million in campaign cash and faces no Democrat in the Aug. 10 contest and a relatively unknown Republican in the Nov. 5 general election. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Campaign Donations Roll In For Honolulu Mayor’s Reelection Bid. Mayor Rick Blangiardi received about $289,000 in campaign donations during the second half of last year, more than the combined total received by the five council members up for reelection in 2024. Civil Beat.

‘Big win’: City gets long-awaited federal funds to help build rail line to Kakaako. With the stroke of a pen, $744 million will be released to finish Honolulu’s rail system all the way to Kakaako. Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed an amended Full Funding Grant Agreement on Thursday. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Miske Defense Calls Key Government Witness A Career Criminal Who ‘Fooled Everybody’.
  A lieutenant of alleged Hawaii crime boss Michael J. Miske Jr. was an oxycodone addict who sold methamphetamine while on federal probation and working as an informant for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, defense attorneys established Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Removal Of Buildings Underway At Summit Of Kīlauea Volcano.  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is preparing to demolish the landmark Jaggar Museum. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video NewsBig Island Now.

Hilo rezoning request draws opposition from neighbors. The Windward Planning Commission on Thursday discussed, but made no decision regarding, a proposal by Big Island developers to rezone a property at the corner of Manono and Lanikaula streets to allow for the construction of an approximately 5,000-square-foot one-story building to be used for unspecified retail purposes. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Maui Has Yet To Launch A Covid-Era Housing Program That Could Provide $24 Million In Relief To Fire Survivors. County council members want the Bissen administration to take advantage of the federal money before it's too late.  Civil Beat.

A popular tavern becomes the first business to reopen on Lahaina’s main street. Mala Ocean Tavern is the first business on Front Street to reopen after the devastating fires nearly six months ago. Front Street is known as “ground zero” because most of the businesses on the famous street in Lahaina were destroyed. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County officials unveil three potential permanent Lahaina debris disposal sites
. Two West Maui locations and the Central Maui Landfill are under consideration as permanent disposal sites for an estimated 400,000 cubic yards of ash and debris to be removed from Lahaina wildfire burn zones. Maui Now.

Maui visitor arrivals up to highest levels in five months; December spending down. Maui visitor arrivals were up in December to the highest levels in the nearly five months since the August Lahaina wildfire disaster, according to preliminary statistics from the Hawaiʻi Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. However, the month’s Valley Isle arrivals of were 24.8% less than December 2022 and 28.7% less than December 2019. Maui Now.

Kauai

West Kauaʻi to address pollution at Kīkīaola Small Boat Harbor in settlement with community groups. Community groups Nā Ki‘ai Kai and Surfrider Foundation, represented by nonprofit environmental law organization Earthjustice, have settled with the County of Kauaʻi and the Department of Health to clean up pollution from drainage ditches discharging into the ocean along West Kaua‘i, including the Kīkīaola Small Boat Harbor. Kauai Now. KITV4.

Friday, September 8, 2023

Housing chief resigning, alleging personal attacks from BJ Penn and others, Honolulu council mixed on flavored tobacco, shopping cart bans, Green to update progress one month into Lahaina fire disaster, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

After housing chief’s resignation, governor calls personal attacks against her ‘despicable’. Housing chief Nani Medeiros’ resignation raises questions about future of Green’s panel. Medeiros — who has been disparaged, sued and criticized in her 10 months on the job — plans to resign, citing recent threats to her and her family. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Hurricane Jova weakens slightly as it continues tracking westward in the East Pacific. The National Hurricane Center said at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jova had maximum sustained winds of 125 miles per hour with higher gusts. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

State epidemiologist warns of high COVID-19 rates, forecasts new vaccine in coming weeks.
State epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble said the state's COVID-19 positivity ratings jumped from 8% in July to more than 15% this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Josh Green to update the public today about the deadly Maui fires. Today marks one month since the deadly firestorm that destroyed most of the historic Maui town of Lahaina, killing at least 115 people. Star-Advertiser.

Green says improved response in Lahaina could have saved lives as key questions remain unanswered. One month after the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century, basic questions about the government’s preparation and response to the blaze that destroyed Lahaina remain unanswered — as the painstaking task of identifying remains continues. Hawaii News Now.

Hirono delivers remarks on Senate floor, marking one month since Maui wildfires.
US Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) delivered remarks on the Senate floor marking one month since wildfires tore through Lahaina and Upcountry Maui.  Maui Now.

6 House working groups to study Lahaina fire’s aftermath. House Speaker Scott Saiki has appointed six working groups to address a large range of issues relating to the Lahaina fire and wants them to come back with bills to be considered during the next legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Bill to ban selling flavored tobacco on Oʻahu sees mixed reactions from councilmembers.
While the goal of Bill 46 is to limit enticing vaping products, some are concerned the bill would additionally target sales of cigars and hookah. Hawaii Public Radio.

State gauges interest from developers on new Aloha Stadium project.
So far a total of nine teams of developers showed genuine interest in building out the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District and met with state officials to discuss the plans for the project in one-on-one meetings. KHON2.

City and County of Honolulu working toward banning shopping carts on local streets.
The City and County of Honolulu passed first reading of Bill 49 Wednesday, that would make it unlawful for any person to use, place, leave or in any other manner situate a shopping cart. Shoppers on store premises - permitted to park by owners of the lot, would be an exception. KITV4.

Officials seek input on creating Oʻahu's long-term disaster recovery plan. The recent Maui fires have increased the importance of having a plan in place on every island to guide the recovery process after a natural disaster.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Complaints about overgrown brush rise amid heightened wildfire concerns.
Like many ridgeline communities, Makakilo above Kapolei has a patchwork of land ownership that makes it hard to tell who is responsible for keeping down the wild brush to protect the homes. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiian Airlines to resume Tokyo Haneda-Kona service in October.  Hawaiian Airlines today announced it will restart service between Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, operating three flights Oct. 29. through Nov. 4 before restarting regular weekly service on Nov. 22.  Maui Now.

Maunakea telescope removal slated for next week.  The Caltech Submillimeter Observatory on Maunakea is the first of five telescopes to be decommissioned in exchange for the planned eventual construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Mayor’s Limited Response About Lahaina Fires Leaves Critical Questions Unanswered. Mayor Richard Bissen spoke to the public in a scripted video address but is not returning calls seeking details and clarification. Civil Beat.

DOE: Number Of Students Missing, Killed In Maui Fires Is ‘Too Small’ To Release. Parents demanded more transparency from education officials at a meeting Thursday. Civil Beat.

West Maui May Reopen To Tourism On Oct. 8 As Economic Slowdown Predicted. The Hawaii governor also plans to distribute $1,200 to each adult affected by the Lahaina blaze. Civil Beat.

After loss of restaurant, Mick Fleetwood uses music to benefit Maui. Mick Fleetwood was in Los Angeles visiting family when he got the news that Lahaina was burning and he was unable to get back home. Back on Maui, the legendary drummer discovered his restaurant, Fleetwood’s on Front St., was destroyed. Maui News.

Local Businesses Will Have Priority For New Wildfire Cleanup Contracts. ECC Constructors, a California company with offices in Honolulu, will be the prime contractor leading the second phase of Lahaina’s remediation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has confirmed.  Civil Beat.

Maui beckons tourists, and their dollars, to stave off economic disaster after wildfires.
State tourism officials, after initially urging travelers to stay away, are now asking them to come back, avoid the burn zone and help Maui recover by spending their money. Airlines have started offering steep discounts, while some resorts have slashed room rates by 20% or are offering a fifth night free. Associated Press.

Kaiser launches hotline to support West Maui community. Kaiser Permanente has launched a hotline to connect those in the West Maui community in need of in-person counseling, emotional support, and links to resources.  Star-Advertiser.

Kauai


Kaua‘i firefighters extinguish multiple brush fires Wednesday
.  Kaua‘i Fire Department firefighters extinguished brush fires in Anahola and Kōke‘e. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

$25M initiative to restore coral health, monk seal pup found dead on North Shore, Big Island to quit spraying glyphosate on county roadsides, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

$25M initiative to restore health of Hawaii’s coral reefs. Arizona State University on Monday announced the creation of a new $25 million initiative that aims to preserve and restore the vitality to Hawaii’s declining coral reefs. Star-Advertiser.

Monk Seal Pup Found Dead On Oahu’s North Shore.
The discovery comes after officials disclosed another young seal was most likely killed intentionally on the island in March. Civil Beat. Big Island NowKHON2.

State school board shake-up raises questions. No one who knows why Gov. Josh Green removed Bruce Voss as chair of the state Board of Education is talking openly about the reasons.  Star-Advertiser.

Inflation is stabilizing, but Hawaii food costs high. Honolulu’s inflation rate is easing, but prices for some items are still higher than they were last year, according to federal data. Star-Advertiser.

Hotels offer applicants perks amid staffing shortages. More than 80% of hoteliers across the nation are reporting staffing shortages, and Hawaii is no exception with this year’s projection for state hotel jobs expected to be nearly 12% below pre-pandemic levels. Hawaii’s projected hotel job decline is tied for 20th worst along with Arizona and Minnesota.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii On The Hill: Hirono Talks K-Pop, Cats And Carrying On At DC Event. The U.S. senator from Hawaii talked about a wide range of issues during the 7th Annual Hawaii on the Hill event in Washington, D.C. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Ex-Council chair pleads not guilty to abuse charge. Former Honolulu City Council member Ikaika Anderson has pleaded not guilty to allegations of domestic abuse levied by his 34-year-old girlfriend. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

New HPD Budget Adds Potential Hiring Bonuses, Boosts Chinatown And Community Policing.
Recruiting incentives for new officers and civilian hires are under discussion. Civil Beat.

Portal for City’s rent, utility relief program closes after surge in applications. Due to extraordinary demand from Oahu renters, the City and County of Honolulu’s Rental and Utility Relief Program (RURP) application portal closed again Tuesday afternoon. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

The patient numbers at Red Hill's clinic are low
. Why are civilians seeking care elsewhere? Earlier this year, the military opened the Red Hill Clinic to provide treatment to those facing long-term health effects from the November 2021 jet fuel water crisis. Hawaii Public Radio.

City to start major improvement project on Kalākaua Avenue. Honolulu's Department of Design and Construction announced that they will be renovating the roads and curbs for the next nine months. The project also includes adjusting manhole covers and utility boxes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Vandals Nearly Destroyed This Central Oahu Cemetery
. Now The Community Is Standing Up For The Dead. The state has stepped in to untangle legal issues and create a long-term plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

 
County announces changes for own pesticide use
. The County of Hawaii Public Works Department announced Tuesday plans to end the use of glyphosate-based herbicides on County roadsides, drainage structures, rights-of-ways, and easements by July 1. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Charges against two women — cited in a dispute over nene conservation— were dropped by a judge Tuesday. “It’s a win for the cats.” That was the reaction by Nancy Charles-Parker after misdemeanor charges of the taking of endangered and threatened species against her and fellow Waikoloa resident Ferol Kolons were dismissed without prejudice Tuesday by South Kohala District Judge Jill Hasegawa. Tribune-Herald.

Public invited to learn about Wailuku hydroelectric project on Big Island. The public is invited to a meeting this week to learn more about a project that has provided clean, renewable electricity for more than 30 years on the Big Island and plans for its continued operation. Big Island Now.

Maui

Former Mayor, Ex-Mahi Pono Exec Now Want To Steer East Maui’s New Water Board. The council is considering the additional applicants as DHHL scraps its initial recommendation of Jonathan Likeke Scheuer. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green moves to increase healthcare opportunities. 
Governor Josh Green, M.D. announced that he has signed legislation that will expand access to healthcare on Maui. KHON2.

Wailuku parking structure to open in September
. The four-story, 393-stall parking structure that aims to clear up street parking in Wailuku town is set to open Sept. 1, according to Maui County and construction officials. Maui News.

USPS seeks to fill 47 job openings at four Maui post offices; Job Fair Blitz on June 15. The US Postal Service is hosting job fairs on June 15 at the Kahului, Kīhei, Lahaina and Wailuku Post Offices.  Maui Now.

Maui parents want more mental health help for woman who allegedly tried to take child. A Maui woman accused of trying to kidnap a child last month is now facing a new charge. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Owning pepper spray on Kauaʻi may get easier with new law. Unlike other counties in the state, to legally own pepper spray on Kauaʻi, a resident needs a permit. A new bill at the Kauaʻi County Council seeks to change that. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapa‘a Swimming Pool estimated to reopen August. With renovations to the pool beginning in August 2022, the project’s scope of work includes replacing and upgrading the pool filtration, recirculation and chlorination systems. Kauai Now.

Friday, May 12, 2023

Hawaii economy avoids recession, state marks end of COVID-19 emergency, state sued over Maui mosquito release plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii economy still OK despite weaknesses. Positive expectations outweigh negative ones in a new Hawaii economic forecast where rising personal income and construction offset a small decline in visitor spending and higher unemployment to help the state avoid a recession in 2024. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii leaders mark end to COVID-19 emergency. State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble spoke Thursday about the ending of the COVID-19 federal public health emergency at the Department of Health.  Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Board Of Education To Consider Computer Science As A Graduation Requirement. Legislators say the move would help students get lucrative jobs in STEM fields. Computer science is on the way to becoming a new graduation requirement in Hawaii by the end of this decade as state legislators seek new ways to encourage homegrown technical skills. Civil Beat.

As fentanyl-tainted drugs proliferate, Hawaii sees record number of overdose deaths
and a disturbing trend. Narcotics claimed 320 lives last year in Hawaii, making 2022 the most deadly year on record, according to newly-released figures from the Medical Examiner’s Office. Hawaii News Now.

Governor considering permanent protections for journalists. Gov. Josh Green is considering whether to sign a bill that would bring back and make permanent protections that would keep reporters from being forced to disclose confidential information or sources in state court. Star-Advertiser.

Capitol reflecting pools receive $33.5M for ongoing repairs. The Legislature approved funding for planning, design and construction for rehabilitation of the reflecting pools around the Capitol. Critics said the project doesn’t reflect the community’s needs. KHON2.

Circulating survey that seeks input on imaginary Gabbard-Hirono contest raises eyebrows. Both Hirono and Gabbard dismissed the survey. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Annual count of homeless records slight rise on Oahu.
The results of the Oahu Point in Time count, taken in January, tallied 4,028 homeless people, of whom 59% were unsheltered and 41% were sheltered. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii keiki summer programs scrambling to fill job openings. Officials for the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation’s Summer Fun program and the YMCA of Honolulu say the staffing situation isn’t nearly as dire as a year ago, when they were ramping up after the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, but there are still plenty of openings. Star-Advertiser.

Study: Nearly 90% Of Hanauma Bay Could Be Underwater By 2030.
Researchers say the nature preserve is facing significant threats from climate change. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Red Light Safety cameras see huge reduction in red light runners.
  The Red Light Safety Cameras are working. That’s according to Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

HVO reports summit inflation, elevated earthquake activity at Kilauea. Restlessness at the summit of Kilauea volcano does not necessarily indicate an imminent eruption, according to Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiʻi Island police officers authorized to use pickup trucks while on duty. Effective immediately, Hawaiʻi Island police officers are authorized to use pickup trucks with an open bed as subsidized police vehicles.  Big Island Now.

Puna reacts to cash shortage for full Pohiki Ramp dredge. Puna residents were ambivalent Wednesday about news the state will not dredge the entire beach blocking the Pohoiki Boat Ramp. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Maui

Hawaiʻi Unites sues DLNR over mosquito suppression plan to save native birds. A local environmental nonprofit has sued the state Department of Land and Natural Resources and Board of Land and Natural Resources over its mosquito suppression plan to reduce avian malaria at Haleakalā National Park. Hawaii Public Radio.

80-unit housing project seeks funds to stay afloat. A housing developer is seeking a $10.6 million subsidy from the county to keep an already-approved 100 percent affordable workforce project in Waikapu afloat. Maui News.

Gate To Kawakui Beach On Molokai Is Open Again — For Now.
Access was restricted by Kaluakoi Outfitters for months on the Molokai Ranch property. Civil Beat.

98th Maui Fair postponed again, community must wait another year
. While the tradition of a Maui Fair is timeless, holding the 98th Maui Fair must wait for another year, organizers announced today.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Council supports mosquito biocontrol to protect honeycreepers. The Kaua‘i County Council approved a resolution supporting biological control efforts to protect endangered Hawaiian honeycreepers from mosquito-borne disease. Garden Island.

Feds: Kaua‘i company owes workers $97K for overtime and travel. A Kaua‘i cleaning service has been hit with its second labor violation in less than a decade after federal investigators determined they failed to pay nearly $50,000 in workers’ overtime wages and travel expenses over a three-year period. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Department of Water’s quality reports now available. The Department of Water’s 2023 Water Quality Reports, covering the period of Jan. 1, 2022, to Dec. 31, 2022, are now available on the Department’s website at Kauaiwater.org. Kauai Now.

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

Ranchers want more land, Hirono pushes for Hawaii missile defense, Hawaiian Airlines accounts for 11% of state GDP, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Local ranchers say they need more land available for agricultural use to stay in business.  Hawaiʻi’s ranchers say they need help to stay in business. A group was set to meet with state lawmakers Monday, seeking their support for a number of measures before the Legislature. Hawaii Public Radio. KITV4.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono concerned about lack of missile defense for Hawaii.
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono wants answers from military leaders about missile defense in the islands amid rising tensions in the Pacific, asking senior military brass about the Pentagon’s strategy for defending Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Audit: OHA is falling short on its development, investment promises
. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs isn’t sticking to its development and investment promises, according to a new critical state audit that suggests is missing out on revenue. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Air a major player in state economy, report shows. Hawaiian Airlines in 2022 wasn’t even back to pre-COVID-19 performance levels and still was associated directly and indirectly with more than $10 billion worth of economic activity in Hawaii — 11% of the state’s gross domestic product, according to an independent report by ICF, a global consulting services company commissioned by the airline to assess its economic impact in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bank stocks tumble, but execs say money is safe. The fallout from the shutdowns of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank spilled over to regional banks Monday and sent the shares tumbling for publicly traded Hawaii financial institutions. Star-Advertiser.

Erosion rulings send clear message: Landowners must come to terms with rising seas. With recent decisions, the state Land Board has sent a clear message to shoreline landowners: They’ll have to start dealing with rising seas and shouldn’t expect government bailouts. That’s an about-face for the state. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Senate Committee Green Lights New Ag Director Sharon Hurd. Sharon Hurd received kudos for being “most improved” from the Senate Agriculture and Environment Committee on Monday as the committee approved her appointment to run Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture despite a bumpy initial appearance. Civil Beat.

Patients are settling in at Hawaiʻi State Hospital, but construction fixes are ongoing. Demand remains high for mental health services at the Hawaiʻi State Hospital. The new facility on the windward side of Oʻahu just opened last spring, and officials say it is operating at full capacity — all of its 277 beds are taken. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

In The Line Of Duty? Kealoha Ruling Raises Questions About Public’s Obligation To Cops
. The Hawaii Supreme Court decided March 7 that the Honolulu Police Commission erred in 2019 when it decided to provide former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha with taxpayer-funded legal representation after his federal indictment. Civil Beat.

HPD Chief talks about his plan to deal with violent crime
. Honolulu Police Department Chief Joe Logan’s, five year plan touches on everything from crime to improving communications. KHON2.

Ex-Mililani athletic director pleads not guilty in theft case. The former Mililani High School athletic director accused of stealing over $400,000 from the school’s nonprofit sports booster club pleaded not guilty Monday to theft charges. Star-Advertiser.

Protesters who ‘reclaimed’ DHHL land step up pressure campaign — and make plans to stay. Frustrated by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Land’s growing waitlist, Native Hawaiian activists are increasing the pressure on the department. Over the weekend, one protester ― De Mont Manaole ― used an excavator to clear a long-vacant, four-acre DHHL parcel that was overrun by weeds and nonnative trees. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed Ward Village development includes nearly 500 units, retail space.  Ward Village has submitted a planned development permit application for its latest residential project — called Launiu Ward Village. The 11th proposed development in Ward Village will be located at the corner of Ala Moana Boulevard and Ward Avenue. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Zoo ticket prices could increase for the first time since 2011. The Honolulu Zoo may raise its kamaʻāina and military admission rates for the first time in over a decade. Honolulu City Council’s Bill 7 proposes increasing tickets by $2. Hawaii Public Radio.

Traffic victims’ survivors push for new laws to make streets safe.  In the wake of February’s death of a 16-year-old McKinley High School student killed in a crosswalk, lawmakers, advocates for safer streets and families of victims of traffic fatalities gathered Monday at the state Capitol to advocate for new laws. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Roth gives progress report in State of the County address. Halfway through his first term, Mayor Mitch Roth reflected on his administration’s challenges, successes and hopes for the future at his State of the County address Monday. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. KHON2.

State begins Maunakea transfer from UH with newly nominated stewardship team. Gov. Josh Green has nominated the eight members of the new Maunakea Stewardship and Oversight Authority. On July 1, a transition period begins, transferring control over Maunakea to the authority, and away from the University of Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

Court again rejects Big Island biomass plant. The state Supreme Court on Monday once again dashed Honua Ola Bioenergy LLC’s hopes of bringing its $520 million Hawaii island biomass plant into operation burning trees for renewable energy. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.

Gov. Green requests state funding for Kohala Ditch, Kona hospital, Pohoiki Boat Ramp.
Hawai’i Gov. Josh Green has included in his budget request to the State Legislature funding for three long-desired Big Island infrastructure projects. He transmitted these requests in a March 10 letter to the State Legislature. Big Island Now.

TSA ‘equipment failure’ causes long lines for passengers at Hilo airport. Travelers waited in hourslong lines at Hilo International Airport over the weekend and Monday due to an “equipment failure,” according to the state Department of Transportation. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.  KHON2.

Maui

Maui Settles Civil Suit Tied To Officer Convicted Of Sex Crimes.  Maui County tax dollars will be used to pay three women victimized by former Maui Police Officer Brandon Saffeels, who is now serving a 10-year prison term for child enticement and fraud. Civil Beat.

Mayor Bissen to deliver State of the County address, March 21. Mayor Richard Bissen will deliver his first State of the County address at 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 21 on the front lawn of Kalana O Maui, the County Building in Wailuku. Maui Now.

County of Maui solicits applications for Economic Diversification grants. The County of Maui Office of Economic Development is soliciting applications for proposals for grants to create and implement plans for business development and economic diversification. Maui Now.

Salvaging Shipwrecks Is A Tough Business. Just Ask The Company That Towed The Maui Yacht. The crashed vessel in Honolua and a wave of groundings during last week's storms put a focus on just how hard it is to haul away grounded boats. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County ‘scrambling’ to collect $230K in homelessness funds. The County of Kaua‘i is rushing to receive at least $230,000 in federal funds for homelessness prevention after a sudden shift by the state upended the county’s access to a grant program. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Bus getting a rebrand. In an effort to modernize the look of the fleet, two ribbons of light blue and teal will replace the ‘90s-era, sugarcane industry-inspired, green hatching that currently lines the side of the vehicles. Garden Island.

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Breaking up statewide school district again under scrutiny, Green faces more heat over appointees, Maui hospital workers go on strike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Decades-Old Debate Over Breaking Up Hawaii’s Statewide School System. Hawaii is the only state to have a single school district and no local school boards — a holdover from the plantation-era that places many major decisions about education in the hands of a state board made up of volunteers.  Civil Beat.

Ruling on confirmations could draw political heat. Gov. Josh Green’s appointee for state attorney general has informed state Senate President Ron Kouchi that she agrees with a previous attorney general’s opinion that seven deputy directors of state agencies — including her own — do not have to undergo Senate confirmation. Star-Advertiser.

Anderson Can Remain Interim DHHL Chair, AG’s Office Says. Ikaika Anderson can stay on as interim director until the end of the legislative session in May or until Green appoints a replacement, Deputy Attorney General Ryan Kanaka‘ole told the Hawaiian Homes Commission Tuesday morning. Civil Beat.

Bills and proposals start to dwindle as Legislature hits deadline. With about two-thirds of the legislative session left to go, state lawmakers have whittled down thousands of bills. Hawaii Public Radio.

Local emergency dispatchers seek official 'first responder' title and union rights. During this legislative session, communication dispatchers are advocating for two bills. One, Senate Bill 1059, would add dispatchers to the state's definition of what a first responder is.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Car Insurance Would Cost More Under Legislation Pushed By Trial Lawyers. If passed, it would be the first increase in state-mandated minimum liability coverage since 1998. State lawmakers are seriously considering bills this year to require Hawaii motorists to buy more car insurance, a step the insurance industry warns will be “regressive” because it would impose additional costs on low-income residents. Civil Beat.

Measure would allow exonerees to file suit while also collecting wrongful conviction payout. The exoneration of Albert Ian Schweitzer in the Dana Ireland murder case is prompting lawmakers to change part of a law providing compensation to those wrongfully convicted. Hawaii News Now.

Mazie Hirono seeks reelection to U.S. Senate.  Hirono previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives representing rural Oahu and the neighbor islands, the state Legislature and as Hawaii’s lieutenant governor. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. Garden Island.

State climate commission supports governor's climate fund. The Hawai‘i Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission has thrown its support behind Gov. Josh Green's plan to create a $100 million climate fund. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Vacation Rentals Are In The Hawaii Legislature’s Crosshairs. Rep. Daniel Holt and a handful of House members are spearheading efforts this year to rid Oahu of short-term rentals all together in an effort to try to slow the rising price of homes. Civil Beat.

Dillingham businesses hindered by the path to rail line’s terminus. Amid rail-related construction work on busy Dillingham Boulevard ramping up, some area businesses are grappling with plummeting customer foot traffic. Star-Advertiser.

Police chief urges safety after ‘rough’ week on Oahu roads.  After a week in which two police officers were critically injured in separate traffic-­related incidents and a 16-year-old girl was killed in an alleged hit-and-run while on her way to school, Honolulu Police Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan on Tuesday called for the community’s help to keep Oahu safe. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

On Hawaii Island, a desperate request to house traveling nurses key to patient care. A lack of affordable housing is hampering Kona Community Hospital’s ability to plug critical staffing shortages ― and prompting officials to think outside of the box to address the crisis. Hawaii News Now.

UH provides guidance on burial site preservation. The University of Hawaii has provided guidance for preserving a Native Hawaiian burial site in Puna near UH land after multiple incidents in which the graves were desecrated. Tribune-Herald.

Former Kona Seaside Hotel to reopen April 1 as Pacific 19 Kona.
Nine Brains Big Island LLC obtained the lease for the Kona Seaside Hotel last year and has been remodeling the 122-room hotel with an anticipated April 1 opening day. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now.

Maui

Judge: West Maui Developer Broke The Law When Digging Up County Road. Second Circuit Judge Kirstin Hamman recently ruled that development companies broke the law when they tore through an old roadway in West Maui while trenching a water line, a project that fueled fierce protests from community members and had previously struck a burial site. Civil Beat.

Workers at three Maui County hospitals reject offer, will strike today. United Public Workers members rejected Maui Health’s “last, best and final offer” and will go on strike at three Maui County hospitals beginning at 6 a.m. Wednesday. Maui News. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Grounded yacht accidentally pumped fuel into Honolua Bay, owner says. An effort to remove the 94-foot luxury yacht that ran aground Monday on the reef at Honolua Bay during high tide failed this morning and accidentally pumped diesel into the water, according to owner Jim Jones.  Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  Maui News.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Kauai

County exploring solutions to manage waste as landfill approaches maximum capacity.  As the County of Kauai‘s only landfill approaches maximum capacity, plans for a solution are still uncertain. Garden Island.

Luke Evslin sworn in as new Kaua‘i representative. New Kaua‘i state Rep. Luke Evslin took his seat in House chambers for the first time on Tuesday, joining the largest freshman class of representatives in 28 years. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Hirono to seek 3rd Senate term, Honolulu fined for lack of PPE at gun range, rats and mold at Big Island school, luxury yacht runs aground on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2023 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono will officially announce today she’s running for reelection in 2024, according to a campaign spokesperson. Hirono, 75, will be seeking her third consecutive six-year term in the Senate. Civil Beat.

Should Hawaii’s Legislature Meet Year-Round?
Supporters believe the idea could increase transparency, but restrictions on employment have met with pushback. Civil Beat.

Bills address Native Hawaiians, harassment of fishermen, community-based subsistence areas. A school of bills that would update fishing policies in Hawaii are rocking the boat for many fishermen. Tribune-Herald.

Various measures propose ways to address Hawaii’s educator shortage. At the start of the school year, the state Department of Education was short 736 teachers. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii timeshare occupancy back to pre-pandemic levels. The average timeshare occupancy rate reached 92.7% during the third quarter of 2022, when statewide timeshare occupancy for the first time exceeded pre-pandemic levels, according to technology firm STR data reported by the state Department of Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Fentanyl Test Strips May Soon Become Legal In Hawaii. Hawaii would join others states in making fentanyl test strips legal and widely available if either of two measures moving quickly through the Legislature goes on to become law. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City fined after investigation revealed it didn’t provide gun range staff with proper PPE. The city of Honolulu has been fined thousands of dollars after a worker safety investigation revealed staff at Oahu’s only public gun range weren’t supplied with or required to wear proper personal protective equipment while cleaning the facility. Hawaii News Now.

In wake of fatal crashes, Hawaii lawmakers want crackdown on unlicensed drivers. Years ago, to reduce the backlog at traffic court, the state decriminalized most traffic offenses, but driving without a license remains a crime that usually forces unlicensed drivers to come to court. Hawaii News Now.

New TSA checkpoint will streamline interisland passengers at Honolulu airport. The makai checkpoint in Terminal 1 at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport will add four screening lanes — bringing the total to 10 lanes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Habitat for Humanity prepares to close ReStore. Honolulu Habitat for Humanity is preparing to bid aloha to its ReStore shop in Palama. The warehouse store that sells donated goods is set to close March 18 so the nonprofit can focus entirely on building affordable housing. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island school in ‘crisis’ with mold, rats, says teachers union. Years of worsening problems with mold, rats, termites, structural damage and other health and safety issues have reached a “crisis” level at Holualoa Elementary School on Hawaii island, educators and parents say, and the state teachers union is calling for more transparency and immediate increased help from the state. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

US military confirms reports of balloon that supposedly flew over Hawai‘i. U.S. Indo-Pacific Command not saying much. No one knows for sure right now, but sightings have been reported and there’s been enough chatter that it spurred the National Weather Service to forecast a possible track for the unidentified object. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Weather pattern dumps record rainfall on Hilo; wet conditions to linger. Through Sunday, Hilo had recorded 28.32 inches so far this month, almost three times the average rainfall of 10.22 inches the airport normally receives for all of February. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Luxury yacht runs aground in Honolua Bay on Maui. A 94-foot Sunseeker luxury yacht ran aground in Honolua Bay on Maui Monday morning after its mooring line snapped, sparking outrage on social media over the boat’s potential damage to the marine environment. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

In Maui County, 36% of energy was generated by renewables last year.  Aided by new grid-scale and rooftop solar capacity, Hawaiian Electric achieved a 32 percent consolidated renewable portfolio standard — 36 percent in Maui County — in 2022 using a new calculation signed into law last year.  Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Council to fill vacant seat. With newly appointed state Rep. Luke Evslin heading to O‘ahu, the remaining six members of the Kaua‘i County Council now must select a replacement to fill his vacant seat. Garden Island.

Lawmakers against axing paper ballot audits. Kaua‘i County Council members recently approved a resolution opposing two bills that propose to eliminate paper ballot audit requirements in Hawai‘i elections. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i towns first to be fully fiber enabled.  Hawaiian Telcom announced on Thursday that Kealia with ZIP code 96751, and Lawa‘i with ZIP code 96765 on Kaua‘i are the first two ZIP codes in the state that Hawaiian Telcom has completely enabled with fiber. Garden Island.

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

New housing official understands lack of affordable housing firsthand, Green in D.C. for State of the Union, Manoa residents fight affordable housing project, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Housing official feels homeownership struggle firsthand. Nani Medeiros, 50, appointed to the new state Cabinet position of chief housing officer,  has spent years living paycheck to paycheck as a single mother — the group most at risk of becoming homeless. Star-Advertiser.

Analysis: Schatz, Hirono Secured More Earmarks Than Most. Hawaii’s senators obtained hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funds for special projects in the islands, including major upgrades to military infrastructure. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green to travel to Washington D.C. for State of the Union Address. Green also plans to meet with members of Hawai‘i’s Congressional Delegation and will attend the National Governors Association Winter Meeting.  Big Island Now.

Bills Would Force Hawaii To Seek Court Orders In Many Child Welfare Cases. The measures would dramatically narrow the rules for when children can be taken from their parents absent a judge's order. Civil Beat.

Advocates take another shot at bail reform with new Gov. Josh Green.  After coming inches away from enacting comprehensive bail reform last year, advocates are giving it another shot. Garden Island.

Legislature moves to take Hawaii tourism into new phase. A bill moving through the legislature is proposing big changes to how Hawaii is marketed to the world. KHON2.

Community Schools Would Get A Boost In Hawaii Under Proposed Legislation. The bill would require the state DOE to provide grants as part of a two-year pilot program to test the concept, part of a movement to turn public schools into community schools that provide local services and support in addition to the traditional curriculum. Civil Beat.

Committee to consider free school lunch bill. New legislation could make it possible for all students in Hawai’i to receive free school lunches, regardless of income. Garden Island.

Bill seeks to add ‘okina on license plates. Where it says Hawaiʻi on our license plates, it’s currently against state law to put an ‘okina between the two i’s. KHON2.

Hawaii considers using drones to monitor illegal fireworks. This week a second reading by the Legislature of the State of Hawaii, addresses devoting one million dollars for the purchase of drones to monitor the use of illegal fireworks. KITV4.

Subsistence Or Business? More Local Producers Will Need To Bite The Bullet On Food Safety As Demand Grows State agencies and local hotels and restaurants are on the hunt for more Hawaii-grown produce, but only a small number of our farms conform to USDA guidelines. Civil Beat.

Oahu

New DOJ Deal Means Honolulu Handi-Van Riders Can’t Get Stuck On Hold. Honolulu’s city-run Handi-Van service has three years to substantially reduce the time that its senior and disabled users are forced to spend waiting on the phone to reserve a trip, under a recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice. Civil Beat.

Median sales price for Oahu single-family homes dips below $1M.  The median sale price of previously owned single-family homes on Oahu has fallen below the $1 million mark that was first eclipsed in August 2021 and consistently met or exceeded until January. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Frustrated landowners push back against state’s ‘managed retreat’ approach to rising seas
. Citing advances in erosion control technologies, a coalition of oceanfront property owners are urging the state to give them more weapons in their battle against beach erosion. Hawaii News Now.

Mānoa residents say there are 'too many issues' with 288-unit affordable rental Banyan Court project. Mānoa Banyan Court is slated to provide nearly 300 affordable rental units for older residents on fixed incomes. However, some residents in the area argue the project's plans are flawed. Hawaii Public Radio.

This homeless shelter for families has the money to reopen and the need.
So why hasn’t it yet?  One year after the lease expired at one of Oahu’s only homeless shelters for families, government agencies still haven’t found a new site to reopen ― even though officials confirm the money is there. Hawaii News Now.

Military scales back ‘anti-terrorism’ fence in Windward Oahu following complaints.  The Marine Corps says it has removed more than a mile of barbed wire fencing in the Keolu Hills area overlooking the Bellows training area. Hawaii News Now.

Bill strives to keep parking free at Ala Wai boat harbor.  A bill to keep 300 recreational stalls at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor free to the public to “ensure access to the ocean for future generations as well as protect rights for surfers and other practitioners of customary Native Hawaiian rights” is slated to be heard Wednesday at the state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Women’s Prison May Have To Install Cameras In Control Booths. Legislators are considering the requirement after inmates who were sexually abused by corrections officers sued the state. Civil Beat.

U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii reopens after upgrade. The U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii at Fort DeRussy reopened Monday morning with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Senator questions scope of new authority’s stewardship over Mauna Kea.  The jurisdiction of the newly formed Maunakea Stewardship and Oversight Authority is being challenged by a bill in the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

Proposed code update reveals archaic rules for ‘dance halls’.  In an effort to remove extraneous and outdated parts of the county code, Hilo Councilwoman Jenn Kagiwada has proposed a repeal of Chapter 6, Article 2, of the county statutes, which regulates “dance halls” to an almost puritanical extent. Tribune-Herald.

‘An incredible partnership’: School-Based Health Centers open in West Hawaii. Hawaii Island Community Health Center has launched School-Based Health Centers to provide care on-site in three local schools. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ex-Maui official spent bribe money on travel, hostess bars.  The more than $2 million that the former director of the Maui County Department of Environmental Management accepted in bribes and spent on gambling, hostess bars and luxury travel constitutes “the largest single known case of bribery prosecuted” in the district of Hawaii, according to federal prosecutors. Star-Advertiser.

Space Force head promises to rebuild trust after Maui fuel spill.  The Space Force’s top officer in Hawaii apologized Monday for a diesel fuel spill at the service’s Maui Space Surveillance Complex at the summit of Haleakala. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Coastal testing shows rising trend in poor water quality. Report notes high turbidity in some West Maui sites, high nutrients in South Maui. Maui News.

No-cost oral health services for public school students expand to Maui.  Under the partnership, the dentists are participating in a community-wide effort to provide better oral healthcare access to public school keiki in Maui County.  Maui Now.

Molokaʻi group hatches a plan for food sustainability with chicken raising program.  Molokaʻi residents deal with some of the highest prices for things like gas and electricity, but a community farming program has helped control the price and supply of eggs. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kaua‘i will learn from O‘ahu at sea level rise forum. The Kaua‘i Climate Action Forum – made up of local environmental groups Zero Waste Kaua‘i, Kaua‘i Climate Action Coalition and the Surfrider Foundation Kaua‘i Chapter – will take lessons from O‘ahu at its next online event. Kauai Now.

Native Hawaiian group slams handling of beached whale on Kaua‘i. Several excavators were needed during the 48-hour effort to dismember, remove and bury the 60-ton, 56-foot-long palaoa (Hawaiian for “sperm whale”) in a secret location. Kauai Now.

$1.5M gift will help families own homes. In April 2022, the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands selected 51 beneficiaries and awarded them lots in the Pi‘ilani Mai Ke Kai subdivision.  Garden Island.

Thursday, August 25, 2022

Student loan bailout coming to Hawaii, Maui bill lets people sleep in cars, Cayetano has stents implanted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tens of thousands in Hawaii will benefit from federal student loan forgiveness plan. Tens of thousands in Hawaii will benefit from federal student loan forgiveness plan. President Joe Biden’s plan to cancel $10,000 in federal student loan debt for Americans earning $125,000 or less per year was welcomed by many in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Mazie Hirono and the Small Business Administration are optimistic that more small-business support is coming. U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono and Small Business Administration Administrator Isabella Guzman on Wednesday began visiting Hawaii organizations supporting Native Hawaiian and female-owned small businesses with the message that more federal support is on the way that will build on existing efforts to help them access federal support. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Telcom expands fiber internet access statewide. Hawaiian Telcom expanded its fiber-optic infrastructure to more than 22,000 homes and businesses during the first half of this year and said Wednesday it is on target to achieve its goal of enabling a total of 50,000 homes by year-end. Star-Advertiser.

UH Researcher Gets $2.8M To Help Prevent Vaping Among Rural Hawaiian Youth. A University of Hawaii Cancer Center researcher was awarded a $2.8 million grant to develop and test an e-cigarette prevention plan for the state’s rural youth, especially Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders who are disproportionately affected. Civil Beat.

Ben Cayetano undergoes procedure to clear arterial blockage. Former Gov. Ben Cayetano, who suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, was scheduled to have two stents implanted to clear an arterial blockage this week — a procedure that Cayetano said he should have had done 10 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

New boosters targeting BA.5 expected as Hawaii cases trend downward. The Biden administration plans to offer the next generation of COVID-19 booster shots to Americans ages 12 and older soon after Labor Day. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

State to expand COVID wastewater surveillance program. Soon, Hawaii will no longer need to send off samples to the mainland. That could save up to a week in reporting results. KITV4.

Hawaii Department of Health reports 2,219 new COVID-19 infections, 13 coronavirus-related deaths. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, continued its downward trend to 8.6% compared to 10.7% reported the previous week, representing tests performed between Aug. 16 to 22. Star-Advertiser.

4 more monkeypox cases reported, bringing state total to 22, Department of Health says. DOH said it has identified four additional cases of monkeypox in two Oahu residents and one Maui resident, all of which remain under investigation, and a Hawaii Island resident whose case is related to community exposure. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Signature issues on Hawaii primary ballots left thousands of votes uncounted. Despite lower participation in the recent election, more voters on Oahu mailed or dropped off ballots that weren’t counted because of nonmatching or missing signatures on ballot return envelopes compared with the 2020 primary election when mail-in voting became the predominant form of voting in Hawaii under a 2019 decision by state lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

Military says barbed wire fence is for ‘anti-terrorism protection,’ but residents call it an eyesore. In Keolu Hills overlooking Marine Corps Training Area Bellows in Waimanalo, residents often hear military exercises. But now there’s construction activity. Military contractors are building a fence around the training area that’s 7 feet tall with barbed wire. Hawaii News Now.

Blueprint For Hawaii Housing? UH Project For Students And Faculty Is Going Up At Relatively Little Cost. A Hawaii lawmaker says the public private housing partnership could be a model for state-owned affordable rentals. On an island where the median price of a condominium hovers around $500,000, it may come as a surprise that a private developer is planning to build up to 400 units in verdant Manoa for as little as $212,500 each. But that’s exactly what’s happening on the University of Hawaii campus. Civil Beat.

Katherine Kealoha Accuses Feds Of Ruining Her Marriage With Cocaine Photo Allegation. The former Honolulu deputy prosecutor is trying to appeal her 2019 conviction for conspiracy and obstruction of justice. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Police Update Permitting Process For License To Carry Firearms. The revised permitting process on Hawaiʻi island follows the July 2022 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in NYSRPA v Bruen. Big Island Video News.

U.S. Coral Reef Task Force To Meet In Kona. The DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources is hosting the 45th USCRTF meeting in Kaiula-Kona from August 27 to Sept. 3. Big Island Video News.

DOE awards contract for new classroom building at Kealakehe Elementary School. Honolulu-based Nan Inc. was the apparent low bidder for the project putting in an offer of $16.125 million, more than $3 million over the project’s estimated cost of $13 million. Also submitting bids were F &H Construction at $16.34 million and Isemoto contracting at $17.93 million. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Food Distributor Settles Racism Lawsuit For $90K. A Hawaii food distribution company has agreed to pay $90,000 to settle a lawsuit alleging a Black employee was subjected to racial slurs and racist references to slavery, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said Wednesday. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Maui

Bill to let Maui residents sleep in vehicles in county lots approved, but some wary of sites
. A bill to create a pilot project so houseless residents may use their vehicles as overnight habitation in county parking lots was passed Tuesday, but some are voicing concerns over which properties may become a “safe sleeping zone.” Maui Now.

Maui issues first concealed carry permit. Maui County Police Department issued its first permit to carry a concealed weapon out of 187 applicants. This after the supreme court ruling in June upholding the right to carry a gun in public. KHON2.

Land in Lahaina slated for future teacher housing. Timeline to be discussed; state says it’s the first time in a decade that DOE will put up educator housing. Maui News.

Maui’s first Raising Cane’s, Chick-fil-A restaurants set to open next week in Kahului. Starting next week, chicken fans will merely cross the road for two of the nation’s popular poultry restaurants. Maui Now. Maui News. KITV4.

Kauai

New charter school aims to meet 'multigenerational' need on Kauaʻi's North Shore
. For decades, middle and high school students living in communities such as Wainiha and Hanalei have traveled to and from school in Kapaʻa. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaneiolouma statues removed for maintenance. The 16-foot tall Ki‘i that tower over Po‘ipu were taken down for maintenance last week, but they will be back up soon. Garden Island.

Welcome Back event celebrated a return to in-person learning. Students from the college took advantage of the E Komo Mai, or Welcome Back, event presented by the Associated Students of the University of Hawai‘i-Kaua‘i Community College student government and the college’s Student Life department to re-unite with friends between classes. Garden Island.