Showing posts with label adult care homes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label adult care homes. Show all posts

Friday, December 20, 2019

Police pulled off Mauna Kea as access road to be opened, Maui mayor vetoes tax valuation bill, 500 food service workers strike at Honolulu airport, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Ige and top state law enforcement officials hold Mauna Kea press conference ©2019 All Hawaii News
Hawaii Governor Pulls Back Law Enforcement On Mauna Kea — For Now. Protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope project are contemplating their next move in the face of a Dec. 26 deadline to either leave or risk arrest. Civil Beat.

5 months after standoff with TMT protesters began, Ige pulls law enforcement from Mauna Kea. The governor announced Thursday he’s pulling state law enforcement from Mauna Kea amid the ongoing standoff with Thirty Meter Telescope protesters at the base of the summit, but stressed his administration is not abandoning the project. Hawaii News Now.

Thirty Meter Telescope protesters told to clear road by Dec. 26. In a confusing flurry of activity Thursday, Gov. David Ige said he was removing state law enforcement personnel from Mauna Kea for the time being, while a top state law enforcement officer warned the protesters blocking the Mauna Kea Access Road that they have until Dec. 26 to clear the road, or face arrest. Star-Advertiser.

Standing down: Ige, Kim announce withdrawal of law enforcement on Maunakea. After more than five months of waiting, the impasse at Maunakea Access Road has seemingly broken, with Gov. David Ige on Thursday reopening the road and withdrawing law enforcement from the mountain. Tribune-Herald.

The governor has initiated a reduction of state law enforcement presence on Maunakea. State law enforcement will stand down on Mauna Kea, and the Mauna Kea Access Road will reopen. Big Island Video News.

TMT Won't Begin Construction At This Time, Ige To Withdraw Law Enforcement From Mauna Kea. Hawaii Gov. David Ige says he is withdrawing state law enforcement officers from Mauna Kea after being informed that the $1.6 billion Thirty Meter Telescope won't proceed with construction at this time. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor Ige pulls law enforcement from Mauna Kea, police give demonstrators one week to clear the road. Mauna Kea kia’i are given one week to clear access to the Mauna or face removal after Governor David Ige announces the TMT project will be temporarily put on hold. KHON2.

State to Withdraw Presence From Maunakea as Part of Indefinite Stand Down. Gov. David Ige has announced an indefinite withdrawal of state law enforcement from Maunakea, citing the Thirty Meter Telescope’s intention not to immediately move forward with construction on the mountain. Big Island Now.

Demonstrators against TMT construction say they were given a deadline to clear Mauna Kea access road. On Thursday, demonstrators against construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea say they were given a deadline to clear the access road. KITV.

Complaint: ‘Enhanced’ Maunakea traffic enforcement is unconstitutional. The Hawaii County Police Commission is slated to hear a complaint today by a retired police sergeant who alleges the Hawaii Police Department’s operations around the blockade of Maunakea Access Road by protesters of the Thirty Meter Telescope project is “institutionalized police misconduct.” Tribune-Herald.

Baby gets a special greeting from Obama at Hawaii golf course. Former President Barack Obama is back on Oahu for the holidays, where he's already hitting the links and surprising families. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Strike spurs several restaurant closures at Honolulu airport. Over 500 HMSHost Honolulu airport workers went on strike Thursday in the midst of one of the busiest travel times of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Airport Food Service Workers On Strike. It involves over 500 Local 5 members at HMSHost concessions and restaurants. Civil Beat.

More than 500 food service workers at Honolulu airport on strike. More than 500 food service workers at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport are on strike on Thursday, calling for better pay and benefits. Hawaii News Now.

More than 500 food service workers on strike at the airport in Honolulu. Airport officials told us that there are only a handful or so places open where people can get food and drinks. KHON2.

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State cites operators of two unlicensed Honolulu care homes. The state Health Department said today it has ordered the operators of two illegal adult residential care homes in Honolulu to close down following unannounced visits. Star-Advertiser.

State orders 2 illegal adult care homes to shut down. The state says both are operated by Kolea Senior Management Services. Hawaii News Now.

State cracking down on unlicensed home care facilities. It's something that has become a bigger problem as Hawaii's population ages. KITV.

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‘Save Our Sherwoods’ says mayor agrees to scrap controversial Waimanalo project. Opponents of a controversial development project in Waimanalo say an agreement has been reached to scrap the plan. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Attorney believes group behind violent crimes on Oahu. U.S. Attorney Kenji Price said a group may be behind some of the recent armed crimes in Hawaii, particularly on Oahu, during a news conference today addressing the spike in violent crimes. Star-Advertiser.

Lay Net Found In Kaneohe Bay So Massive DLNR Needed A Forklift To Move It. The discovery sparked an investigation by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, which regulates net fishing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

The Big Island took to the small screen in 2019. 64 productions permitted, filmed on Big Island in 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Suggestions sought for lands to be permanently preserved. The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, or PONC, is seeking suggestions from the public regarding lands that should be preserved because of cultural or historic significance. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Victorino Vetoes Bill on Real Property Tax Valuations. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino announced his disapproval of Bill 59, relating to Real Property Tax Valuations, citing concerns over what he called “the potential negative consequences of the proposed tax classifications and a lack of understanding by taxpayers.” Maui Now.

Maui Mayor vetoes bill on Real Property Tax Valuations. Mayor Victorino objected to the Council’s new proposed real property tax classifications of combining “properties with dwellings” in the current Agricultural, Conservation, Apartment, and Residential classifications into a new classification entitled “non-owner occupied.” KHON2.

Funds for old, new jail; to purchase watershed all part of Ige’s budget. $17M also allotted for Maui hospitals. Maui News.

Surf competition raises concerns over illegal parking, congestion. Residents file complaints after Jaws Challenge. Maui News.

Kauai

After 100 years in business, Kauai hog farm prepares to shut down. Kauai farmers Valerie and Derwin Kaneshiro raise hogs and produce pork. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai utility hits mark of supplying island with 100% renewable energy. KIUC claims that for five hours last Tuesday, all electricity on Kauai — which provides power to a population of about 100,000, including visitors — was generated 100% by renewable resources. Star-Advertiser.

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Court rules state agency can't keep data secret, crossing guards called off Mauna Kea, lawmakers mull home care licensing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Volunteer Mauna Kea Saddle Road crossing guards in July ©2019 All Hawaii News
As costs mount, Hawaii County pulls highway crossing guards from TMT protest site. With cars traveling at 60 mph along Daniel K. Inouye highway and police reporting near accidents, the private security was hired over the summer to keep motorists and pedestrians safe. Hawaii News Now.

Judge: State Can’t Keep Data Behind Its Budget Estimates Secret. A judge ruled the Hawaii Department of Taxation must make public the information and assumptions it relies on to develop revenue estimates for the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Adult Care Home Bait-And-Switch Scheme Concerns Lawmakers. State lawmakers are considering further legislative action to tighten rules and stiffen penalties governing Hawaii’s unruly adult care home industry. Civil Beat.

Airline catering workers picket for better pay and healthcare . Dozens of airline catering workers took to the picket line today at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. KHON2.

Oahu

Honolulu Council Chair’s Staffer Announces Bid For Windward Seat. Ikaika Anderson is set to finish his third and last council term next year, and Alan Kekoa Texeira hopes to succeed him. Civil Beat.

City lawmaker pushing to restrict future turbines from being built too close to communities. A City lawmaker wants location restrictions on future turbine construction after one of the biggest issues over the controversial Na Pua Makani Wind Farm in Kahuku. KITV.

Annual survey allows Oahu residents to express opinion on city operations. It's a survey the city auditor hopes will make a difference. KITV.

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A first-of-its-kind ship launches service out of Oahu. After 14 years and $30 million, the Semisub One officially launched its service along Oahu’s coastline. Hawaii News Now.

Semisub tours underway after business’s rough start. After navigating more than a decade of construction problems, regulatory woes and angry investors, Semisub One LLC has finally launched commercial tours in Honolulu with a unique vessel that offers a view of Hawaii’s underwater world. Star-Advertiser.

The world's first SemiSub — a semi-submersible jet-powered catamaran that lets guests experience Hawaii waters without getting wet — officially launched with a blessing ceremony on Tuesday. SemiSub One features three decks, two full bars, an IMAX style theater, a lounge, and services pier-to-pier tours that include a 20 minute underwater viewing session. Pacific Business News.

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Honolulu Museum of Art’s Spalding House to hit market at $15 million. Elite Pacific Properties announced today it is listing the Honolulu Museum of Art’s Spalding House for $15 million. Star-Advertiser.

Retired Honolulu police officer charged with attempted sexual enticement of minor. A retired Honolulu police officer pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday of attempted sexual enticement of a 13-year-old boy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Highway 132, cut off by lava last year, to reopen today. A 1.6-mile stretch of the upper portion of Highway 132 and a 1.5-mile section of the lower portion of the road were inundated and created a kipuka, or an isolated area cut off by last year’s lava flow. Tribune-Herald.

New Highway 132, Built Over 2018 Lava, Opens Wednesday. County officials announced on Tuesday that Highway 132 will has been restored to its pre-inundation function with two paved travel lanes and shoulders, and will open by at noon on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

Highway 132 to Reopen Wednesday. Highway 132 in Pahoa, cut off to travel for more than a year by lava from the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea volcano, will reopen Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2019, at noon. Big Island Now.

Portion of Hawaii Island’s Highway 132 to reopen this week. More than a year after lava consumed a portion of Highway 132 on Hawaii Island, county officials announced the roadway will reopen this week. Hawaii News Now.

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Input sought on proposal to resume commercial aquarium fishing off West Hawaii. After a roughly two-year halt to commercial aquarium fishing off West Hawaii, the industry hopes an environmental review will help to revive their trade. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed Energy Code Changes On The Way. After receiving more than 200 proposed amendments, the Department of Public Works' proposal may go before a Hawaiʻi County Council committee next month for a hearing. Big Island Video News.

Sky is the limit: Friends of Greenwell planning big now that garden is theirs. Plans for a Kealakekua gem are in the works now that the Friends of Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden purchased the land from the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hana resident to launch new tour company. Hana resident Kaiolohia Funes Smith plans to launch a new tour company, Hana Air & Ground Tours, aimed at giving visitors a local’s perspective of the Maui town. Pacific Business News.


Kauai

Thanksgiving meals served today. On Kauai, meals will be served today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kauai War Memorial Convention Center, and 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Salvation Army Hanapepe Corps, 4465 Puolo Road, Hanapepe. Garden Island.

Lanai

 3,000 on Lana‘i Attend Annual Turkey and Rice Giveaway. Jim and Randy Coon, of Coon Brothers Inc, started the tradition back in the early 90’s as a way of bringing the Lānaʻi community together and helping out families who might not have the time or resources to purchase a Turkey from Maui. Maui Now.

Tuesday, May 1, 2018

Legislators to vote on sunscreen ban today, airport authority bill dies, OHA trustee investigated for accepting money from royal heiress, Honolulu officials get 4% pay raise, heart attack doesn't keep 78-year-old mayor from the job, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Rinsing the beach baby in Hawaii ©2018 All Hawaii News
Hawaii is poised to become the first state in the nation to pass a law banning the sales of over-the-counter sunscreens containing chemicals believed to harm coral reefs if Hawaii legislators vote to pass it on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Senate bill would stop sale of reef stressing sunscreens. Statewide ban would take effect in 2021. Maui News.

Legislation to regulate unlicensed care homes faces its final hurdle today as both House and Senate lawmakers vote on the controversial bill. Star-Advertiser.

A major change to a financial assistance program designed to help those caring for Hawaii's senior citizens is upsetting some caregivers. Hawaii News Now.

A bill that would have created a dedicated governing body to take control of the state’s airports was unexpectedly killed Friday despite being on the verge of passage. Tribune-Herald.

Voters will see on the November ballot a measure seeking to generate public education funding through a surcharge tax on high-value residential investment properties. Several other education-related bills are awaiting a final reading today and likely are headed to Ige’s desk. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii State Legislature passed House Bill 2342, which eliminates the fee for freezing and thawing credit reports. Maui Now.

OHA Trustee Under Investigation For Accepting $72,000 From Heiress. Rowena Akana says charges against her by the state ethics commission are inaccurate and politically motivated. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Inequality Study Overlooked Thousands of Micronesians. Service providers say more data is needed to help Hawaii’s most recent immigrants. Civil Beat.

The second of two Hawaii regulatory agencies has blessed the pending sale of local phone, TV and internet service provider Hawaiian Telcom to Ohio-based Cincinnati Bell. Members of the state Public Utilities Commission voted 3-0 Monday to approve the $650 million deal with several conditions. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection is launching an investigation into a data breach that impacted all 25 Zippy’s Restaurants in the state as well as its Napoleon’s Bakery, Kahala Sushi and Pearl City Sushi locations. Pacific Business News.

Boosted by the Trump administration's federal tax reform, Honolulu-based American Savings Bank reported first quarter earnings of $18.9 million for the year ending March 31, the highest quarterly net income in the company’s history. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A bump in pay could be coming for city officials, but it's not the mayor who will be making the most. The four percent pay raise approved by the Salary Commission covers the mayor, Honolulu City Council, and city department heads and deputies. KHON2.

Thirty to 50 people who have been living along the streets and parks in Kakaako Makai were anticipating being rousted from their campsites by city crews late Monday night, and while they’re not happy about it, frequent parkgoers applauded the change in policy that will allow the sweep. Star-Advertiser.

The city now has enforcement jurisdiction at Kakaako Makai parks, which include Kewalo Basin Park, Kakaako Waterfront Park and Kakaako Makai and Mauka Gateway Parks. For the first time, city crews utilized its new enforcement authority Monday night. Hawaii News Now.

Council to city: Replace parking stalls lost to urban bike lanes (or else). Hawaii News Now.

Competition May Be Coming To Honolulu’s Bike-Share Market. The nonprofit Biki launched in June. Now the for-profit LimeBike is advertising to fill job openings for its dockless service. Civil Beat.

Several months after a deadly fire raged through the 35-story Marco Polo, a majority of condo owners voted in favor of retrofitting the 35-story building with automated sprinklers. Star-Advertiser.

Public hearings are set to begin June 6 on a new 570-unit Kakaako tower proposed by Ward Village developer Howard Hughes Corp. Star-Advertiser.

Sidewalk renovations will begin Tuesday along Kalakaua Avenue, which could mean more traffic headaches in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Gifts given by King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani are being returned to Iolani Palace. KITV.

The Honolulu home of 92-year-old Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa was burglarized over the weekend. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

78-year-old mayor back at his desk days after heart attack. Mayor Harry Kim was at his desk Monday morning, looking fresh and rested, after undergoing evaluation and a heart procedure late last week. West Hawaii Today.

The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel &Bungalows will shut its doors in October, sending roughly 400 employees back out into the job market. West Hawaii Today.

Economists, farmers say overtreatment of coffee berry borer breaking banks. West Hawaii Today.

Mele, the young donkey that lived on the Kona Coffee Living History Farm, was killed Saturday afternoon after she was struck by what appears to have been a stray bullet fired from an adjacent agricultural property. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

County Council members halved money planned for the Wailuku civic complex, bringing it down from $81.2 million to $40 million, and the Maui Lani roundabout, originally cut by Budget and Finance Committee Chairman Riki Hokama, was back in the spending plan, but with conditions, including a review by a council committee. Maui News.

A one-mile portion of the Pipiwai Trail in east Maui will close for helicopter operations on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, in support of a trail boardwalk replacement project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hawaii's U.S. senators surveyed damage on Kauai on Monday, and pledged to work quickly to ensure that aid continues to flow to the flood-ravaged island. Hawaii News Now.

Sen. Mazie K. Hirono joined Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr., soldiers from the Hawaii National Guard, and emergency management officials to assess storm damage on Kauai’s North Shore and discuss ways the federal government can assist community residents as they work to recover from the storm. Garden Island.

Rules may change for Kauai homeowners anxious to rebuild. KHON2.

Kauai to begin shuttle service for isolated residents, car registration deadline extended. Hawaii News Now.

Now that food and fuel are arriving, the emotions of the last two weeks are catching up to people in the isolated Kauai communities of Wainiha and Haena, where an unknown number of homes were destroyed in unprecedented flooding last month. Star-Advertiser.

For over 40 years, Shirley-Simbre-Medeiros has called Kekaha home, but in that time, she said she has seen little change in some of the problems on the Westside, which is why she’s running for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Hawaii Health Department sued over lack of elderly home inspection reports, cool schools bids come in lower, Kauai water quality lawsuit filed, campaign money follows incumbents, bottled volcanic water comes right from the tap, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Hawaii Health Systems Corp.
Leahi Hospital, courtesy Hawaii Health Systems Corp.
The state’s failure to post inspection reports of state-licensed care facilities online has prompted advocates for the elderly to go to court to force the state to comply with the law. Civil Beat.

A senior citizens advocacy organization is suing the Hawaii Department of Health for failing to post inspection reports online for care homes that serve seniors and the disabled. Star-Advertiser.

Construction bids for the state’s “cool schools” initiative have started to trend lower since the Department of Education announced last month that an initial round of proposals came in significantly over budget. Star-Advertiser.

American fishermen are digging in for a fight over a proposal to shut down the vestiges of the U.S. harvest of shark fins, prized for soup and traditional medicine in Asia, and send a message to the rest of the world. Associated Press.

Why It’s So Hard To Find A Fresh Voice In Hawaii Politics. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz has an easy route to re-election. Oh, there are candidates who’d love to unseat him. They just struggle to get noticed. Civil Beat.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono isn’t up for election until 2018, but she continues to add more cash to her campaign coffers. Hirono raised $111,352 from April 1 to June 30, according the latest reports filed with the Federal Election Commission. Civil Beat.

It’s interesting that U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard thinks she needs more money, as she raised more than $420,000 in the April-June period and reported nearly $1.9 million in cash on hand. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A Board of Water Supply crew is patching a water main break in a sinkhole on Punaluu Valley Road that has left residents without water and a road on which to exit their neighborhood by vehicle. Star-Advertiser.

Darby scooted off to the north a weaker storm Monday, but not before pounding Oahu with enough rain Sunday night to stop freeway traffic, knock out power, spill sewage and trigger some serious flooding. Star-Advertiser.

Feds Finalize $175 Million Plan To Protect Waikiki From Flooding. Tropical Storm Darby was a reminder that a much bigger 100-year flood could devastate Honolulu’s economic engine. Civil Beat.

Honolulu not building enough housing for its population, report says. Pacific Business News.

For the first time since state Rep. John Mizuno originally ran for the Legislature 10 years ago, he faces a Democratic primary opponent in the race for House District 28, which encompasses Kalihi Valley, Kamehameha Heights and part of Kalihi. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Rod Tam Crosses The Aisle To Try To Come Back. Talking with Rod Tam about his guilty plea, his nights in jail and why he’s running for the state Senate as a Republican. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

County water is source of premium brand. The California Department of Public Health is investigating a complaint about Waiakea Hawaiian Volcanic Water involving “issues such as labeling and source water requirements associated with Waiakea.” Tribune-Herald.

No one on the Big Island has been issued a concealed carry license and that is unlikely to change any time soon in the wake of a recent Ninth Circuit Court ruling, attorneys say. West Hawaii Today.

The lava flow from Kilauea’s Pu‘u ‘O‘o vent crossed the Kalapana emergency route Monday afternoon as it approached the coastline. Tribune-Herald.

An active lava flow from Kilauea Volcano’s Puu Oo vent was less than a quarter-mile from the ocean as of Monday morning, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Star-Advertiser.

The 61g lava flow has crossed the coastal emergency road that connects the Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to Kalapana. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Plans call for opening a new burial site at the Maui Veterans Cemetery by mid-September, which would add much-needed space for deceased veterans and their spouses, state and county officials said last week. Maui News.

A public hearing on the revised draft Honua'ula Habitat Conservation Plan will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the J. Walter Cameron Center in Wailuku. Maui News.

Five blacktip reef shark pups have recently became a part of the marine life at Maui Ocean Center. Maui Now.

Kauai

The nonprofit environmental law firm Earthjustice filed a lawsuit Monday against Hawaii’s Agribusiness Development Corporation alleging it allows pesticides and chemicals to flow unchecked through Kauai’s Mana Plain and into waterways. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Department of Health and Agribusiness Development Corporation are both facing a lawsuit for allegedly polluting Kauai’s Westside waters. Garden Island.

A draft environmental assessment on a proposed residential treatment facility for adolescents on Kauai battling substance abuse is now available for public review. Star-Advertiser.

A draft environmental assessment is being prepared for the repair or replacement of the Kapaa Stream Bridge, on Kuhio Highway near mile marker 10. Garden Island.

Patricia Wistinghausen said the first day representing Kauai as a delegate in the Democratic National Convention was “crazy and crowded.” Garden Island.

Monday, September 14, 2015

Honolulu rail plan redo; lights, wind turbines killing island birds, state Health Department defies law, stops posting care home data; Navy vet can't raise flag; man arrested for marijuana dispensary; county drops drug-test requirements, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Environmental Protection Agency
EJScreen lets you zoom in on environment
A new online mapping tool has been developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to promote environmental justice. The tool, called EJScreen, provides detailed information about pollution, traffic congestion, toxic spills, air quality, sources of water pollution and other environmental hazards, and combines this with census data to identify areas where there are high levels of poverty or where certain ethnic groups are concentrated. Star-Advertiser.

Despite a state mandate, the Hawaii Department of Health has stopped posting online the inspection reports for nearly 1,700 adult care homes and several other types of long-term care facilities that it oversees. Civil Beat.

A state license awarded to businessman Albert Hee to provide telecommunications services on Hawaiian homelands requires that Hee apply some of his profits to job training and education programs for Native Hawaiians, but Hee now says his company has never actually paid out any benefits under that provision. Star-Advertiser.

American Airlines said over the weekend that an Airbus A321 aircraft that flew from Los Angeles to Honolulu on Aug. 31 had not been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration to make extended flights over the ocean to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

We hear a lot about how much it costs to live in Hawaii.  But how much do people in the Islands make? Pacific Business News has a paycheck report. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lower gas prices mean big sales for big cars and one expert said these lower prices may stick around for a while. KHON2.

Oahu

Honolulu rail officials have spent just over $100 million in final design plans to build the second half of the island’s 20-mile transit project, but they’re not certain how much of that work they’ll ultimately use. So it’s unclear for now how much of that money will be wasted. Star-Advertiser.

Wednesday marks one year since Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed Honolulu’s first sit-lie bill into law, banning people from sitting and lying on Waikiki sidewalks 24 hours a day. The new law quickly shifted the landscape in the government’s handling of homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

On Oahu, many families are homeless because they couldn’t pay the rent. Experts say rent subsidies are a cost-effective way to keep families off the streets. Civil Beat.

A lawsuit over tainted rail votes and a new ethics complaint against the Ho‘opili development point up how deeply the Honolulu City Council resides in the pocket of Hawaii’s building industry. Star-Advertiser.

Going green is costing Honolulu millions of dollars. Some say the city would save more money if residents tossed recyclables in the rubbish. KITV4.

A strict homeowner's association policy in Kapolei has one Navy couple crying foul. They've been cited and could be fined $100 if they don't take the flag pole they installed on their front porch. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Hawaii County will  no longer require a urinalysis or medical examination from people who get conditional job offers for positions that are not considered safety sensitive and do not fall under federal transportation safety regulations. Star-Advertiser.

A 58-year-old Mountain View man is facing 31 charges for allegedly operating an unlicensed medical marijuana dispensary out of his Fern Acres subdivision home. Tribune-Herald.

A community hall full of Ocean View residents were left without answers Friday evening as the developers of a massive commercial solar project failed to show for the meeting. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
SunEdison, owner of the Kaheawa Wind Projects I and II above Maalaea, is asking the state for permission to increase the number of Hawaiian hoary bats and nene that may be accidentally killed by its wind turbines. Maui News.

A failed merger between two Hawaii solar energy firms has led to the filing of dueling lawsuits, including the latest one that has Honolulu’s Solar Wave suing Maui’s Haleakala Solar for at least $500,000 for work done in a joint venture, according to the lawsuit filed in First Circuit Court in Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

The state is seeking reimbursement from the federal government for most of the $14.5 million it paid for 78.1 acres for a runway protection zone for Kahului Airport and has prepared a draft environmental assessment as part of that process. Maui News.

Hawaii regulators have ruled in favor of Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co. Inc., giving the Honolulu-based firm a $327 million contract for work at Kahului Airport on Maui after the contract award had been protested by Honolulu’s Nan Inc. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

More than 100 endangered seabirds recently required care after falling from the sky due to lighting issues at Kokee State Park. Garden Island.

The Department of Parks and Recreation plans to dig up and open an out-of-service cesspool that may be leaking bacteria into the water at Kapaa Beach Park. Garden Island.

About a dozen chickens turned up dead on the Hawaiian island of Kauai earlier this week, and the Aloha State is determined to figure out why. Civil Beat.

Protesters were back outside of Hanalei Elementary School Friday and the number of students present in the combined kindergarten and first grade class has dwindled, according to parents. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Monk seal population to grow, NextEra promises $1B in benefits from Hawaiian Electric purchase, Honolulu media target homeless woes, rail contract nears, inspections lacking at home care sites, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaiian monk seal at rest © 2015 All Hawaii News
Federal fisheries authorities want to more than double the small population of endangered Hawaiian monk seals in the state’s main islands. Authorities on Tuesday released a draft management plan for the endangered species, of which approximately 200 live in the main Hawaiian Islands. Associated Press.

Federal regulators want to more than double the small population of endangered Hawaiian monk seals in the state’s main islands. Garden Island.

NextEra Energy Inc., the company looking to buy Hawaiian Electric Industries, said Tuesday the deal will result in $1 billion in customer savings and economic benefits over five years. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s consumer watchdog agency gave a thumbs-down Monday to the proposed $4.3 billion merger of Hawaii Electric Companies and Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc. Tribune-Herald.

The state of Hawaii is expected to sign a major agreement with Korea’s leading energy technology institute later this month to collaboratively work on test projects in the state, including a packaged battery system for residential homes, the head of Hawaii’s energy office told Pacific Business News Tuesday.

Unlike in many other states, Hawaii does not mandate unannounced inspections as part of its annual certification process for community care foster family homes. Officials have the authority to make unannounced visits, but say limited resources often prevent them. Civil Beat.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has appointed Lisa Victor to serve as the new chief operating officer for its 170-person state agency. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Safety concerns are so bad in and around the Kakaako homeless encampment that the state Department of Public Safety, which oversees state sheriff’s deputies, has hired a private security company to guard its nearby offices. Star-Advertiser.

As of this week, there’s a new sense of order on the ground floor of the Kakaako building that houses scores of state workers from the departments of health and public safety. KITV4.

More than half of O’ahu’s single unsheltered homeless live in the urban core according to January’s point-in-time count.   There are also an unspecified number who are not counted by social service providers and are the undocumented homeless. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Honolulu Police Department has rolled out a new fleet of vehicles aimed at catching drivers who break the law. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration has emailed a questionnaire to 530 Oahu residents to ask them to help the city decide on a color for the Magic Island pathway. The choice is between bright blue favored by the mayor and the brownish-red color traditionally seen on running tracks and tennis courts. Civil Beat.

Opposition, dismay and resignation. That was largely the sentiment of North Shore residents responding to the first public presentation of a plan to carve up the historic 2,700-acre Dillingham Ranch into a subdivision for 106 homes tenuously connected with fruit orchard, horse and cattle uses. Star-Advertiser.

In an effort to fuel job creation and address traffic congestion, James Campbell Co. officials are embarking on a $50 million project to widen and reconstruct Kalaeloa Boulevard in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday marked the deadline for groups interested in building the next stretch of rail guideway and stations to put their names in the running. But project officials say they can’t yet disclose who — or  how many parties — responded. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Hawaii County officials will dedicate a new playground Monday at the Mauna Kea Recreation Area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A new Maui County ordinance allows the placement of signs, posters and nontransparent materials on vehicle side windows and rear windows that don’t obstruct the driver’s view of the road, West Maui Councilmember Elle Cochran announced today. Maui Now.

Maui County Liquor Commission discusses new dancing law on Wednesday, Aug. 12. MauiTime.

The Maui Visitors Bureau hopes to attract more "never been" travelers from the East Coast and other regions of the Mainland this year. Maui News.

Construction is underway on the long-anticipated Bath & Body Works store at the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center. Maui News.

Kauai

Roy Oyama is a humble man. Oyama, who will be recognized for his achievements in agriculture and the Kauai County Farm Bureau, was inducted as a Kauai Museum Living Treasure in 2005. Garden Island.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Bag fee advancing in Hawaii Legislature, adult care industry lobbies to keep inspections secret, Hawaii court says online commenter can remain anonymous, Honolulu revisits commercial beach ban, Young Bros. seeks shipping increase, tsunami debris washing onto Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Hawaii KTA grocery clerks (c) 2013 All Hawaii News
Gov. Neil Abercrombie's plan to raise money for watershed protection and invasive species control by charging consumers a 10-cent fee on disposable checkout bags or increasing taxes on multimillion-dollar real estate transactions is alive at the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Amid a downpour of last-minute criticism from the adult care home industry, Hawaii lawmakers further diluted a bill that would require the state to post online its inspection reports of facilities for the elderly and disabled. Civil Beat.

Representatives from three House committees are moving forward a plan to let Hawaii raise revenue by developing unused public school lands. Associated Press.

A bill that would require coverage and benefits for patients with autism spectrum disorders passed committee approval in the state House on Friday. Maui Now.

Let the solar wars begin. The Hawaii Solar Energy Association on Friday denounced the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization’s recently released report on the controversial solar photovoltaic tax credits. Pacific Business News.

A bill labelled “Draconian” by the county’s prosecuting attorney because it could result in government seizure of land for crimes such as harassment is being considered by the state Senate. Big Island Now.

Young Brothers Ltd. has filed a request with the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission that would allow the interisland shipper to adjust its rates for the next three years using the cost of labor, cargo volume and inflation as the determining factors. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

In the 2012 elections, Hawaii saw one local dark money group emerge and play a major role in the Honolulu mayoral race. The Pacific Resource Partnership didn't have to disclose its donors and yet spent $3.6 million to defeat anti-rail candidate Ben Cayetano. Civil Beat.

The controversial law that banned commercial activities at city beaches and parks is being revisited. KHON2.

The city of Honolulu says a new Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services Division substation is needed in case the Waikiki Natatorium, which houses administrators and lifeguards covering Oahu's South Shore, is deemed unsafe. Star-Advertiser.

Since November 2011, the (de)Occupy Honolulu movement has been planted along a stretch on Beretania street. The Honolulu City Council is proposing two bills could that could pack up its tents and free pathways around Oahu for good. Hawaii News Now.

A Minnesota-based developer of housing for artists has partnered with a Hawaiian cultural group to build low-income rental apartment lofts on state land in Kakaako where artists can live and create and showcase their art. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The newspaper website commenter known only as “Taxedtodeath” won’t have to reveal his or her identity, a 3rd Circuit Court judge ruled Friday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii is seeking ways to close an $8.8 million shortfall so it can begin construction of a long-planned community college campus in West Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

State wildlife officials say large swaths of koa forest on the Big Island are losing their leaves, and a sudden outbreak of a native moth is to blame. Big Island Now.

Police say the Waimea Foodland Super Market was evacuated for more than three hours Saturday morning after a grenade was found in the produce section of the store. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Community to initiate effort to rebuild play area in Haiku. Maui News.

A voluntary coral management plan, which was developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Coral Reef Conservation Program, is the first in the state that comprehensively addresses how runoff is affecting deteriorating reef health. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa and three council members, including new Council Chairwoman Gladys Baisa, will make presentations at Tuesday's meeting of the Kula Community Association. Maui News.

Kauai

Without discussion, the Kaua‘i County Council passed in first reading a bill which corrects an oversight that has erased from the Kaua‘i County Code a late-night prohibition on alcoholic beverages at county parks. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i residents have seen a spike in the amount of debris — including pieces of refrigerators — on Kaua‘i’s beaches, and experts say it’s part of the Japanese tsunami debris making the unpleasant new waves. Garden Island.

Sen. Mazie K. Hirono kicks off a four-day Bringing Hawai‘i’s Voice To Washington listening tour Monday on the Garden Isle. Garden Island.

Molokai

This year marks 20 years of coffee production on the island of Molokai. Also in 2013, the entire coffee industry in the State of Hawaii celebrates 200 years of producing the crop. Coffees of Hawaii will host a free two-day festival March 15 and 16 at the plantation in Kualapu`u. Molokai Dispatch.

Fragile sand dunes of Moʻomomi on Molokai, once overrun with alien kiawe thickets, are blooming with new native growth. Molokai Dispatch.