Lawmakers agree on nearly $50B 2-year budget, federal cutbacks threaten 48 UH programs, 82 employees, USDA cuts $46M in farm aid, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lawmakers Settle On A New Two-Year Budget That Focuses On Housing. House and Senate lawmakers have earmarked nearly $400 million for housing subsidies and public housing developments over the next two years to try to make a dent in the increasingly desperate statewide need for affordable housing.  House and Senate lawmakers gave preliminary approval to a $19.9 billion operating budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1, and a $19.76 billion budget for the following year, as well as a  $7.4 billion construction budget. Civil Beat.

UH president backs Harvard amid $6M more in lost funding. University of Hawaii President Wendy Hensel said amount of federal funding cuts rapidly increased by $6 million, to $36 million, since Thursday, bringing the total of terminated or paused research programs to 48 from Thursday’s 36. There are now 82 employees affected by the federal cuts, she said. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

USDA cuts previously frozen funds, including $46M to support Hawaiʻi farmers. Last week the U.S. Department of Agriculture slashed around $46 million meant for Hawaiʻi as part of the Biden-era Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities initiative. Hawaii Public Radio.

House lawmakers pass resolution to study legalized gambling in Hawaiʻi. House lawmakers passed a resolution Monday to convene a working group to evaluate legalized gambling in Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

On The Run And Undercounted, Homeless Youth Try Hard To Stay Out of Sight. By official counts, just a handful of homeless teens live on the streets of Hawaiʻi. Those who try to help them suggest that’s all wrong, that there are many more — perhaps 150 doing their best not to be counted. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi invasive species groups explore the paws-ibilities of detection dogs. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has about half a dozen, and others are being used by the state Department of Agriculture and the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

City Council confirms Honolulu EMS leader’s reappointment. Dr. James Ireland, whose renomination as head of the city Emergency Serv­ices Department faced vocal opposition in recent months, was formally reinstated last week. Star-Advertiser.

FBI investigating allegation that HPD officer planted evidence. A sergeant with the Honolulu Police Department is the target of a federal investigation into allegations that there is recorded footage of him planting drug paraphernalia on the driver of a car during a November traffic stop. Star-Advertiser.

New affordable housing rental complex opens in Makiki. PenseMetro consists of 29 units with monthly rents ranging from $1,900 to $2,400. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Free daily hula performances showcase local hālau, bring energy during Merrie Monarch Festival. While tickets sell out fast to the three competition nights of the Merrie Monarch Festival, local hālau provide an opportunity for the public to experience and appreciate hula during daily daytime — and free — performances at hotels. Big Island Now.

Local artist donates pieces to fund coconut rhinoceros beetle fight. A major donation is helping fund the fight against the coconut rhinoceros beetle on Hawaii Island. Local artist Kim Taylor Reece is donating 1,400 art pieces worth $3.5 million for sale in Hilo during this week’s Merrie Monarch Festival. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island reserves to temporarily close for animal control activities. Animal control activities will be conducted this week for feral goats, feral sheep and mouflon/feral sheep hybrids within palila critical habitat in the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve (Unit A), Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve (Unit K), Palila Mitigation Lands, and the Ka‘ohe Game Management Area (Unit G) on Hawaii Island, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Haleakalā National Park seeks subject matter experts for first of its kind project. Haleakalā National Park is looking for subject matter experts to create and translate content from the Hawaiian perspective to the park’s website. Maui Now.

UH Maui College signs Green Chemistry Commitment. As part of its continuing commitment to advancing Sustainable Science education, the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College is the first UH campus to sign the “Beyond Benign Green Chemistry Commitment." Maui Now.

Maui’s newest respite shelter can help up to 20 men. Chaplain Ministries of Maui (CMOM) held a soft opening on Monday where dozens gathered at 250 Waiehu Beach Road for a formal blessing. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Giving Hawaiians back their voice: Kauaʻi educator sees a Hawaiʻi where hearing Hawaiian is ‘just normal’. Mālia ʻAlohilani Kuala Rogers, or ʻAlohilani, as she prefers to be called, remembers her gut reaction when she heard her grandma talk about not being allowed to speak Hawaiian. Kauai Now.

 

UH faces uncertainty over state, federal funding; Maui mayor's salary outpaces governor's; Honolulu official cleared to take trip from no-bid contractor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

UH faces uncertainty over Senate budget. The University of Hawaiʻi needs an additional $37.9 million for programs and services at its 10-campus system for fiscal year 2026, which begins July 1. Kalbert Young, UH vice president for budget and finance and chief financial officer, noted that the budget proposal recently passed by the Senate includes a more limited level of general fund support for UH in several key areas, compared to the versions put forward by the governor and the House. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

The State Spent Millions On Housing For The Homeless But Doesn't have Receipts To Back It All Up. Since late 2023, the state has issued more than $37.1 million in no-bid contracts to HomeAid Hawaiʻi to build small dwellings as part of Gov. Josh Green’s signature Kauhale Initiative.While HomeAid has provided the Department of Human Services with balance sheets and supporting documents showing how it used state money for some of its projects, the state doesn’t have receipts or other documents detailing the specific use of public money for other projects. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke on the push to send more Hawaiʻi produce nationwide. Luke recently returned from a visit to the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the nation's capital. It's the second time a Hawaiʻi delegation has ever visited.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Proposed Rule Change On Endangered Species Of Particular Concern in Hawaiʻi. Hawaiʻi has more endangered species than any other state, so elimination of habitat protections could be felt deeply here. Associated Press.

Lawmakers May Reduce Court Fines For Youth, But Judges Have Already Cut Back. The amount of fines imposed by judges has dropped, raising questions about whether lawmakers need to do anything. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City to lose over $11 million in federal funding. The biggest losses will mean a $4.8 million cut for planning for a potential rapid transit bus program for the Waianae Coast, followed by a $3 million loss in federal funding for special needs housing improvements. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Council OKs City Director’s Free Trip To Poland. A Honolulu department head’s trip to Poland next month will be funded by a private company that has signed a no-bid contract with that department after City Council members voted Wednesday to approve the gift. Civil Beat.

City Council approves new development plan for Honolulu's urban core. The primary urban core is Oahu’s most populated area, with about 350,000 people packed in from Kahala to Pearl City and all the valleys in between. Hawaii News Now.

Plans presented to develop areas around East Kapolei rail stations. A meeting in Kapolei on Wednesday night focused on developing the land around the rail transit stations. KITV4.

Treatment facility for boys with behavioral problems gets pushback from area residents. The state has approved a new live-in treatment facility for up to five boys who have behavioral problems stemming from sexual abuse or trauma. The home run by Catholic Charities Hawaii is in the quiet “Royal Summit” neighborhood in Aiea. Hawaii News Now.

Warning extended: Speed cameras catch 30k speeders weekly. It was supposed to last two months, but now the state’s new speed camera warning period is getting a major extension.  KHON2.

Parking fees coming to Keeaumoku Walmart, Sam’s Club lot. To deter non-shoppers from taking up space in the lot meant for customers only, Walmart hired Secure Parking Hawaii to begin parking enforcement starting May 1. KHON2.

State seeks more attorneys to become court-appointed guardians ad litem. A guardian ad litem is a court-appointed attorney who is there to protect the interests of a person who cannot take care of themselves. But there are only two doing this work for the island of Oʻahu.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

HPD, UH Hilo partner for new internship program. The Hawaii Police Department kicked off its Kalounui internship program in March with an event at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Lifeguard certification course to be offered in Kapa‘au. The Hawaii County Department of Parks & Recreation is offering a lifeguard certification course at Kohala Swimming Pool at Kamehameha Park in Kapa‘au. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui mayor’s salary to outpace Hawaiʻi governor’s until mid-2028. Starting July 1, Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen will earn $245,000 annually — more than Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green‘s salary through the end of their current terms in office in 2026.  Maui Now.

Maui Department of Housing announces FY 2026 Affordable Housing Fund Annual Plan. The County of Maui Department of Housing announced the release of its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) Annual Plan, which outlines key investments and initiatives designed to address the growing demand for affordable housing across Maui County. Maui Now.

Kekaulike Avenue to reopen a month ahead of schedule following storm-related repairs. Officials with the state Department of Transportation say Kekaulike Avenue between Waiakoa Road and ʻAlae Road will be reopened by noon, Thursday, April 17. Maui Now.

Kauai

Lives of federal conservation workers on Kauaʻi upended by Trump administration. On Valentine's Day, four employees who worked across Kauaʻi’s three USFWS refuges lost their jobs. Hawaii Public Radio.

Water conservation request continues for Hanalei, ‘Anini areas. Kaua‘i County Department of Water officials issued the request April 4 after a pump station mechanical failure that continues to affect the water storage supply. Kauai Now.

Water commission nominee amasses support, lawmakers fight for farms, ICA upholds plan to release mosquitoes on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii water commission nominee garners flood of support. The Senate Committee on Water and Land voted 5-0 Friday for Hannah Kihalani Springer to be the traditional Native Hawaiian water management expert on the Commission on Water Resource Management for the next few years. Gov. Josh Green  passed over Springer twice as a candidate in favor of seeking more candidates, moves that drew criticism from environmental and Hawaiian cultural organizations as well as litigation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi crop exports continue to face strict USDA policies. A handful of resolutions, including House Resolution 26, going through the state Legislature would urge Hawaiʻi's congressional delegation to petition the U.S. Department of Agriculture to “address the lack of parity between Hawaiʻi and other states and territories pertaining to the export of agricultural goods.” Hawaii Public Radio.

Crimes on farms and ranches could incur increased penalties. Senate Bills 763 and 1249, would strengthen penalties, create a dedicated group of state officers, and establish a special fund all to better prevent and punish agricultural crimes like theft and vandalism. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 400 bills still alive as end of Legislative Session nears. Just over 2 dozen bills passed their third and final reading without any changes. But lawmakers disagreed over more than 400 bills and those disagreements have to be worked out over the next 2 weeks in order for those bills to survive. KITV4.

Voting Blind: Why Lawmakers Don’t Know The Cost Of Bills Before They Vote. Hawaiʻi is the only state that lacks legislative fiscal analysis of bills. This year lawmakers may take a step toward fixing that. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers want to work toward a paid family leave program. The House Labor Committee advanced a resolution to create a working group to produce a report on paid family leave that could include proposed legislation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Several international students at UH have visas revoked. A “few” international students at the University of Hawaii are among more than 1,700 students who have been stripped of their visas across the United States. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Director’s Free Trip To Poland Raises Ethics Questions. A company that just signed a no-bid contract with Honolulu’s motor vehicle office has offered to cover the flight, hotel, meals and other related costs — a $5,000 value — for Department of Customer Services Director Kim Hashiro to visit their facility.  Civil Beat.

Kolekole Pass ready to use as an emergency exit for Waiʻanae Coast communities. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has been working with the U.S. Army and Navy to make repairs to Kolekole Pass so that it's safe for residential use. Hawaii Public Radio.

Councilwoman denies public safety conflict over relationship with fire battalion chief. Honolulu city councilwoman Val Okimoto said she will not voluntarily leave her position as chair of the Public Safety Committee, and, by law, cannot recuse from issues that affect the Honolulu Fire Department. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu councilmember develops plan to address HPD officer shortage. A new plan is in the works to tackle the ongoing officer shortage at the Honolulu Police Department. One lawmaker said they need to look at more than recruitment. KHON2.

Honolulu fails to collect millions in short-term rental fines. City officials are expressing shock and frustration over how few fines for illegal rentals are actually being collected. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu child with measles recovers; 92 people identified for possible exposure. An adult member of the child’s household who came down with symptoms remains a presumptive case. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

New Emergency Call Center dedicated. Decades in the making, the new 17,127-square-foot dispatch facility on Mohouli Street will operate as a unified call center, housing dispatch operations for the police and fire departments. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Councilwomen to hold public meeting regarding hosted vacation rentals. The briefing, set up by council members Heather Kimball and Ashley Kierkiewicz, will be between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Thursday. Participants must register in advance at www.hawaiicountytar.com to receive a unique Zoom login. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Intermediate appeals court upholds approval of Maui mosquito project. The ruling is the latest back-and-forth over a proposed project using the Incompatible Insect Technique — or the release of incompatible male mosquitoes — to reduce the wild mosquito population. Star-Advertiser.

Decline in West Maui water supply means new housing projects will have to wait. Commission reviews aquifers in West Maui. State water management officials fear some aquifers in West Maui might be showing signs they are surpassing their sustainable yield in pumping water, raising questions about water allocations for future developments. Maui News. Maui Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Housing Department submits report on unspent Affordable Housing Fund appropriations. The Maui County Council’s Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee has gotten a written response from the Department of Housing about nearly $12 million in unspent and unencumbered funds in the County’s Affordable Housing Fund. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi's first government-funded hula center to begin construction on Maui. Construction is slated to begin this month on Hawaiʻi's first government-funded hula center. The 47,000-square-foot Hālau of ʻŌiwi Art will be located in Wailuku, Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Wilcox Medical Center nurses vote to ratify new contract. The new contract comes after more than 35 bargaining sessions, a three-day strike in January, and a Kauai Council  resolution supporting the nurses. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Namahana Public Charter School set to open for 7th and 8th graders this August. Last Saturday, Namahana School in Kīlauea welcomed the 100 founding families and the seventh and eighth graders who will comprise the inaugural middle school classes beginning in August. Kauai Now.

Lawmakers grill ag chief over lack of biosecurity progress, gender inequality evident in high school career prep, Maui council passes water measures, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lawmakers grill state Agriculture Department for not spending $10M biosecurity fund. In an informational briefing last week, Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole noted that the department has spent only about $1 million of that funding so far.  He then criticized DOA Chair Sharon Hurd for not filling any of the 44 biosecurity-related jobs built into the fund. He also accused the department of misleading the public about how much money had actually been spent. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald.

Additional inspection requirements aimed at preventing increasing spread of invasive species. U.S. Reps. Ed Case and Jill Tokuda, both Democrats from Hawaiʻi, are battling serious threats to the state’s agriculture, environment and economy by reintroducing the Hawai‘i Invasive Species Protection Act. Big Island Now.

Crisis fund access stirs feud between HTA and DBEDT.  The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s attempt to dip into another $5 million from its Tourism Special Emergency Fund after declaring a continued tourism emergency related to the softness following the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires has been blocked by Business, Economic Development and Tourism Director James Kunane Tokioka. Star-Advertiser.

Youth advocate for more local food, climate action this legislative session.  Many of the young people meeting with lawmakers are a part of the Climate Future Forum and want to see the state take more action on climate change.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Connors speaks about Trump transition, future for U.S. Attorney's office in Hawaii. Clare Connors spent more than two decades delivering justice across the country, most recently as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii appointed by former President Biden and approved in 2022. KITV4.

Hawaii wildfire risks lead to demand for more sheep. As the state looks for innovative ways to prevent wildfires, Hawaii’s struggling livestock industry may be part of the solution. Hawaii News Now.

Girls Are Losing Out In Hawai‘i’s Push To Train Kids For High-Paying Jobs. Career-based education has rapidly gained traction in Hawaiʻi schools, but not all programs are attracting boys and girls equally.  Civil Beat.

What The Data Shows About Gender Inequality In High School Career Prep. Use Civil Beat’s searchable database to see how your school is doing when it comes to closing gender gaps in career preparation program. Civil Beat.

Here's why this year's Point in Time Count will not survey unsheltered people. Partners In Care Director Laura Thielen said her group and its partner on the neighbor islands, Bridging The Gap, are only mandated to do the count every other year. She said the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development changed its funding cycle to a two-year term. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Limits On Honolulu Landfills Could Change After Opposition to Wahiawā Site. A bill proposed by state Rep. Sean Quinlan would bar siting landfills over aquifers but loosen restrictions against placing them near communities. Civil Beat.

DPP software upgrade delayed due to technical snag, city says. The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting’s upgrade to its electronic plan review software for building permits has suffered a delay, DPP announced. Star-Advertiser.

Downtown business improvement district is proposed. Downtown Honolulu, once bustling with office workers who frequented eateries at lunchtime, has seen a downturn in office space occupancy since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and needs revitalization, say businesses and developers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu man faces federal charges for allegedly smuggling fish. Shane Takasane faces federal charges after he allegedly ran an illegal aquarium fish smuggling operation with non-native, endangered species and protected Hawaii reef fish for sale starting at $300 each. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

12 motorists arrested for DUI during week of Jan. 1-5 on Big Island roads. Hawai‘i Police Department officers during the first week of the new year continued their crackdown on motorists who drive under the influence of an intoxicant on Big Island roadways, arresting 12 drivers for DUI from Jan. 1-5. Four of those motorists were involved in traffic crashes. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County Council passes bills to ease water use. Bill 180 allows farmers to expand the storage capacity of their private water catchment and storage tank system from 15,000 to 30,000 gallons in agricultural, residential and rural districts.  Bill 146 could allow existing water customers to have a farm or ohana dwelling without obtaining an additional water meter. Maui News.

Committee referral item sparks discord among Maui County Council members. It was mostly smooth sailing for the Maui County Council’s first regularly scheduled meeting of 2025, but then decorum hit choppy waters as the Friday agenda drifted to a planned referral of three bills to the Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee. Maui Now.

December housing median price nudges close to all-time record in Maui County. The median sales price of a single-family home in Maui County rose to $1,374,238 in December 2024, a 14.5% increase over the same month in 2023 and just 2.4% less than the all-time highest median price of $1,408,287, set in September 2024. Maui Now.

Mokulele Airlines resumes flights after safety pause, some cancellations remain. According to Mokulele Airlines’ website, it states that only certain flights have been cancelled. KITV4.

Kauai

State urges more biosecurity measures to protect flocks from avian flu. With low levels of the H5 influenza found in the wastewater samples on Kauaʻi, the Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture Animal Industry Division urges commercial poultry operations and backyard bird owners to increase biosecurity measures to protect their flocks. Kauai Now.

GoFarm offering course to Kauaʻi residents wanting to become next crop of farmers. This year, no prior experience is required to join the six-month AgXcel course. It is open to anybody who has the passion for learning and for sustainable agriculture and growing food, program manager Lily Nguyen said. Kauai Now.

Kahele takes over OHA board, state economy inching up, Honolulu police shooting ruled justified after attempted murder suspect shot 23 times, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

OHA Leadership Shakeup Puts Kai Kahele In Charge, With An Eye on Development. Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs elected former U.S. Congressman Kai Kahele as board chairman in a move aimed at putting the agency in a better position to win approval from the Legislature for a high-profile development in Honolulu. Big Island Now. Civil Beat.

State economy to inch up 1.6% with 2% growth forecast in 2025. Hawaii’s economy performed slightly better than expected in 2024 and — with a red hot construction industry, in particular — should show even more gains for 2% growth in 2025, according to the latest economic data from the state Department of Economic Business and Development. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii Farmers Face Risk of Crime Daily. Is A Murder Enough To Spur Reform? After years of inaction and neglect, a handful of lawmakers and state officials now say they want to address it this legislative session. Potential responses include an agriculture-specific stand-your-ground law, allowing ranchers and farmers to defend themselves with lethal force. Civil Beat.

Feds want more attention on Hawaii’s beetle battle. Federal officials want to expand the coconut rhinoceros beetle program in Hawaii — it is currently only active on Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii Spends More On Takeout Than Any Other State. Hawaii residents spend just under 10% of their average income on takeout. Civil Beat.

Oahu

New potential landfill sites identified, require changes to state law. The city said it has identified six new landfill locations, but they are only feasible if the state Legislature makes changes to a current law restricting landfills. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu certifies election results. The final results of Honolulu’s Nov. 5 general election involving the passage of four city charter amendments have been officially certified. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police shooting ‘justified’, prosecutor Steve Alm says. An attempted murder suspect shot 23 times and killed by Honolulu police officers following a New Year’s Day-long pursuit and shootouts was under the influence of alcohol and cocaine and officers were justified to use deadly force, Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  KITV4.

Empty homes tax bill up for final reading Dec. 11. The Honolulu City Council is scheduled to hold its final reading Wednesday on a proposed empty-homes tax. Star-Advertiser.

Pearl Harbor ducks also tested positive for H5N1. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture today confirmed that another backyard flock of birds infected with avian influenza was discovered in the Pearl Harbor area. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

How to protect Kahalu‘u Bay? Public invited to provide feedback about ecosystem restoration study. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in partnership with the Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation and the Kohala Center’s Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center, will hold a public meeting on Thursday, Dec. 12, to discuss an ongoing study that will investigate methods to restore the bay’s marine environment, which has become degraded due to human impact and changing weather patterns caused by climate change. Tribune-Herald.

New Island Naturals project ‘moving slowly’.  Grocery chain owner and former state Sen. Russell Ruderman announced plans in 2021 to build a new retail center at the intersection of Kekuanaoa and Mililani streets in Hilo that would house the franchise’s new flagship location. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

House Passes Rep. Tokuda’s Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act. Wednesday, he full House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act – introduced by US Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-02) – marking another significant step forward in her efforts to support the community in recognizing Lahaina’s historic and cultural importance.  Maui Now.

Hawaiian Crow That Went Extinct In The Wild Decades Ago Released On Maui. The birds, described as intelligent and charismatic, are the last survivor of all the Hawaiian crow species. Associated Press. Maui News. Maui Now.

New deadlines announced for Maui wildfire survivor housing assistance. Maui residents displaced by the August 2023 wildfires have until Dec. 15 to submit new applications for the Hawaiʻi Interim Housing Program. Households with existing applications have until Jan. 15 to complete them. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kawakami appoints Emily Ishida as new executive on aging for Kaua‘i County. Ishida has been a program specialist at the Agency on Elderly Affairs since 2017, overseeing its information and referral program and working with 6 team members and case management consumers. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development awards 2024-25 Innovation Grants. Kaua‘i County’s Office of Economic Development for the fifth year is awarding funds to new programs and projects that identify and solve local problems with advanced innovation while supporting economic development of the island. Kauai Now.

Ag board gets serious about invasive species, Catholic Charities settles foster care abuse case, Maui charter amendment would staff ethics board, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ag board seeks rule changes to slow spread of invasive species. The state Board of Agriculture on Tuesday will discuss a series of 25 proposed amendments to the state’s administrative rules regarding the Department of Agriculture’s ability to intercept various invasive species — in particular, the coconut rhinoceros beetle, which is rampant on Oahu and was first detected on the Big Island last October. Tribune-Herald.

Islands around the world home to 1/3 of planet’s plant species, study reveals. A new study reveals that Hawai‘i is home to the highest proportions of endemic flora. According to the study, published in Nature on Oct. 16, islands throughout the world are home to nearly 1/3 of the world’s plant species, despite covering just 5.3% of the Earth’s land surface. Hawai‘i stands out with 83% of its plant species being endemic to the state. Big Island Now.

State, Catholic Charities Hawaii settle case in alleged abuse of foster child. The state of Hawaii and Catholic Charities Hawaii have settled a civil lawsuit for $690,000 involving the alleged repeated sexual assault, molestation and abuse of a foster child by the foster mother’s son and his friend who both lived with them, plaintiff’s lawyers said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Tourism partners with JTB to attract high-value business events from Japan. A new deal between the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Meet Hawai‘i and JTB seeks to recover the pipeline of Japan business meetings in Hawai‘i.  Big Island Now.

University of Hawaii faculty ratify new contract. University of Hawaii faculty, represented by the University of Hawaii Professional Assembly, have voted to approve a new successor contract that includes a 3.5% wage increase in the first year and a 3.79% increase in the second year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

LGBTQ+ visitors are expected to hit records and boost state tourism in October. Honolulu isn’t a top market for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning travelers yet, but Honolulu Pride helped to fill hotel rooms and restaurants and create sell-out crowds at supporting events that helped boost tourism in October, which is generally a softer travel month. Star-Advertiser.

State Thinks Its Multimillion-Dollar Food Hub Is Finally Happening. The Whitmore Village facility will include specialized ag equipment and DOE's centralized kitchen. The $5.5 million-plus facility will be part of the 34-acre Central Oahu Agriculture and Food Hub, a project worth tens of millions of dollars.  Civil Beat.

Honolulu Council members urge new agricultural task force. A plan to bring back the city’s now-defunct Agricultural Development Task Force is being sown by some on the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Sea-level rise risk erodes Hawaiian homestead plan. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands intends to develop 220 single-family and 120 to 160 multifamily homes on less than half of an 80-acre site the federal government conveyed to the agency in 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Vision Zero plan outlines most dangerous corridors, intersections.  The City and County of Honolulu’s Oahu Vision Zero Action Plan outlines the key problems, including a lengthy list of the isle’s most dangerous corridors and intersections based on six years of crash data, along with proposed design improvements and their estimated costs. Star-Advertiser.

E-bike working group to update Honolulu City Council. Honolulu officials say the number of accidents involving electric bicycles has proliferated on Oahu. Since January, the city Emergency Services Department has reported 180 incidents involving the powered machines — ones often operated by underage riders. Star-Advertiser.

State to renew push to replace overcrowded Oahu jail. The state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation plans to request $280 million from the Legislature in 2025, to complete planning and procurement work with $30 million and secure $250 million as a down payment for a private developer to build a roughly estimated $1.2 billion new facility in Halawa replacing Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

2 men in serious condition following officer-involved shooting in Waipahu. A man was seriously wounded after he was shot by Honolulu police officers who responded to an argument at a Waipahu residence Sunday night. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

‘We’re open to what the community wants’: Judge rules in favor of Ka‘u resort developer. Hilo Circuit Judge Henry Nakamoto earlier this month ruled in favor of South Point Investment Group who sued the Discovery Harbour Community Association over long-stalled plans to build a resort in Ka‘u.  Tribune-Herald.

$33 Million To Rehabilitate Wailuku River Bridge. Federal funds will be used to reinforce the foundation bridge, and widen it to be in line with Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Big Island Video News.

Hilo sawmill proposal withdrawn by property owner after backlash. Jeremiah Leonard — doing business through the company Farm Forest Products — planned to build a sawmill on his agricultural-zoned 2.7-acre parcel at 170 Makalika St. in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Insurance Prices Threaten An Affordable Housing Oasis In Hawaii. Puna homeowners live under the threat of a lava eruption, but skyrocketing insurance rates are causing many to rethink that choice. Civil Beat.

Sniffing out trouble: Dogs being trained to detect little fire ants. Dog training teams around the Big Island are training canines to sniff out little fire ants, after previous successes in using dogs to detect other invasive species like coconut rhinoceros beetles. Tribune-Herald.

Sulphur Banks Trail At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park To Close. The temporary closure, required in order to repair the boardwalk, will take place from October 21st through December 12, 2024.  Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Voters To Decide If County Board Of Ethics Can Hire A Full-Time Staff. Approval of a charter amendment would allow more employee training and investigations of ethics violations. Civil Beat.

Short-term rentals, housing after fire among top issues in Maui County Council races. Maui County voters can vote for all nine seats regardless of where they live. Maui Now.

Maui’s recycled water conversation continues. A proposed resolution making its way through council has ignited more conversations around the future use of Maui County’s recycled water.  Maui News.

Reflecting on Lahaina: Former Hawaii Island Civil Defense chief shares some lessons learned from deadly wildfires. When the Maui Emergency Management Agency named Darryl Oliveira its interim administrator in the wake of the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfires that killed more than 100 people, they tapped the extensive experience of a career Big Island first responder and emergency manager. Tribune-

Kauai

Kauaʻi County Council hears update on Ready Keiki preschool initiative. The state Ready Keiki program that began in January 2023 with a $200 million appropriation and a goal to build 450 public preschool classrooms by 2032 so far has produced just three of those classrooms on Kauaʻi. Kauai Now.

Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association reveals endorsements in Kauai County Council race. A statewide tourism organization with deep ties to the hospitality sector has thrown its weight behind one-half dozen candidates running for the Kauai County Council in the 2024 General Election. Garden Island.

Farmers seek more ag agency money, big funding boost hasn't led to student success, Kauai PO Box holders at shuttered Post Office urged to re-register to vote, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Farmers Unite For More Ag Agency Funding. The Hawaii Farmers Union, which represents more than 800 farmers, ranchers and food producers statewide, announced Sunday that it will lobby legislators for a drastic increase to the state Department of Agriculture’s $53.6 million budget over the next two years. Civil Beat.

Test Scores For Hawaii Students Show Little Progress Despite Major Funding Boost. The state has received over half a billion dollars in pandemic support, but there's been no tracking of which investments and programs have actually improved student learning. Civil Beat.

Clash erupts over Hawai‘i Tourism Authority budget request. The director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is planning to make a $70 million legislative budget request for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, even though its board, of which he is a voting member, voted to request a higher amount. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii remains the top desired destination for Japanese travelers. As Japanese people gradually begin to eye international travel again after the pandemic, Hawaii remains the top dream destination for Japanese travelers, according to research by travel firms and the Japanese government. Star-Advertiser.

For Japan’s Hawaii lovers, a changing relationship with the Aloha State. Changing modes of travel and shifting tastes are changing the way Japanese tourists experience Hawaii. And it’s changing how they perceive island culture — both while visiting Hawaii and back home in Japan. Star-Advertiser.

Budget-conscious younger Japanese travelers seek adventure, authenticity. For generations, Hawaii has been a dream destination for Japanese tourists. But younger Japanese travelers are often looking for something very different from what their parents seek when they travel. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s loan forgiveness program helps ease the burden on health care workers’ families. When the next legislative session begins in January, Green plans to propose an additional $30 million to help the next group of health care workers pay off their loans over the subsequent two years. Star-Advertiser.

Regents on track to select next University of Hawai‘i president in mid-October. The coming announcement follows the completion of a series of public events for the two finalists, Western Michigan University provost and vice president Julian Vasquez Heilig and City University of New York executive vice chancellor and provost Wendy Hensel. Big Island Now.

DHHL forgoes county building permits. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has begun to exert a long-held regulatory power to speed up homestead and housing development for beneficiaries. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City seeks $115,000 to defend against civil rights suit. Honolulu is asking for more legal fees to defend against a 2023 federal civil rights lawsuit alleging three Honolulu Liquor Commission investigators subjected another investigator to discrimination, harassment and a hostile work environment based on his sexual orientation and race after starting his job with the city in 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Development of luxury condo units on O'ahu's north shore now on pause. Utah-based developing firm Areté Collective, which bought about 65-acres of land near Turtle Bay Resort in April, said it is delaying vertical construction until Dec. 1, 2024 to allow for more conversations with the community. KITV4.

Navy chips in to improve Kalaeloa’s electric grid. Through an intergovernmental support agreement, the Navy is giving $18 million for upgrade work to the Hawaii Community Development Authority, a state agency that governs much of the former base that was closed in 1999 and largely transferred to state, city and private entities for reuse. Star-Advertiser.

UH Cancer Center celebrates federal designation renewal. The designation from the National Cancer Institute comes with a support grant of $11 million from NCI to help fund further research at the center for another five years. Star-Advertiser.

Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles Deal Fatal Blow To Hawaii Palm Trees. Dozens of infested coconut trees have been marked for removal on Oahu's North Shore. Will they be replaced? Civil Beat.

Kapiolani nurses return to work after tense negotiation, 22-day lockout. New Kapiʻolani contract includes nursing council to oversee staffing conditions. The council is meant to serve as an enforcement mechanism to ensure appropriate staffing levels. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Kailua resident files suit against state to have raised crosswalk removed. A Kailua man has filed a lawsuit against state transportation officials, claiming that a raised crosswalk has caused damage to his home. Hawaii News Now.

North Shore home hanging on edge as swell set to arrive Monday. A decent-size north, northwest swell is set to arrive on Monday and many are anxious to see what happens to the sand near Sunset Beach, now that two homes are being demolished due to erosion. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Council bill seeks to ease permit restrictions for ag lot owners. At Wednesday’s Planning, Land Use and Development Committee meeting, Puna Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz introduced Bill 212, which would exempt greenhouses and other small structures from requiring building permits on agricultural lots. Tribune-Herald.

EPIC fail? Homeowner sues county over building permits. The owner of a home in Milolii Beach Lots is suing Hawaii County, claiming its Electronic Processing and Information Center system — known as EPIC — has trapped him in a permitting Catch-22 that only will allow him to demolish his house, not to remodel or live in it. Tribune-Herald.

Bill targets 40-year-old law regarding radioactive materials. A decades-old Hawaii County law allowing the U.S. Armed Forces to freely transport radioactive materials on the island may be coming to an end. Tribune-Herald.

NOAA seeks to restore road to Mauna Loa Observatory. Access to the Mauna Loa Observatory could be restored by next April, more than two years after the eruption of its namesake volcano cut it off from the rest of the island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Bissen hosting community budget meeting in Wailuku on Tuesday. Central Maui residents are encouraged to attend the meeting to provide input as County of Maui departments begin to shape the budget for Fiscal Year 2026, which begins July 1, 2025. Maui News.

Maui County Council committees to hold meetings Oct. 7–9.  The agenda includes integrating seal level rise and coastal threats into planning for county beach parks, discussions regarding domestic violence awareness and the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the county’s revenues and department of water supply, water operations program. Maui News.

Akakū to broadcast Maui County Council candidate forum hosted by Lahaina Strong. Monday night’s Lahaina Strong candidate forum will be broadcast live by Akakū Maui Community Media from 5:30 to 8 p.m. from Hanakaʻōʻō “Canoe” Beach in West Maui. Maui Now.

Maui Memorial health care workers poised for potential strike. The contract for about 1,000 registered nurses, pharmacists, imaging techs and others represented by United Nurses and Health Care Employees of Hawaii, or UNHCEH, expired Monday. Star-Advertiser.

After Lahaina fire ruled ‘accidental,’ survivors still want accountability, compensation. After losing their family home and the town where they all grew up, Shayne Nameaaea Hoshino and his family filed a lawsuit seeking compensation and accountability from big landowners, the government and utility companies for the August 2023 wildfire. Maui Now.

Molokai residents demand community input as state weighs future of Kalaupapa. A visit from several top state officials to Molokai on Saturday raises questions about the future of the isolated peninsula, which was once home to thousands of Hansen’s disease patients. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

5 proposed Kaua‘i County charter amendments on ballots this Election Day. The county of Kaua‘i Charter Review Commission has provided background information and the purpose of each proposal at kauaiballotinfo.com. Kauai Now.

Keālia PO Box holders who used them as primary mailing address urged to reregister to vote. The Kaua‘i County Elections Division is urging voters who had PO Boxes at the now shuttered Keālia Post Office and used them as their primary addresses to reregister to vote with a new mailing address to ensure they receive their ballot for the upcoming Nov. 5 general election.  Kauai Now.

Kaua’i County discusses how to improve search and rescue operations after failed effort. Two months after a failed official effort to find a missing man from Kapa’a led to public criticism of Kauaʻi County’s search and rescue procedures, police and other emergency agencies outlined their handling of missing person cases last week during a tense County Council meeting in which improvements also were discussed. Kauai Now.

ʻUlutopia project at Kauaʻi Community College increasing production and use of breadfruit. On a fraction of a 40-acre farm behind Kauaʻi Community College in Puhi, 64 breadfruit, or ʻulu, trees bear abundant green fruit and teach important scientific lessons. Kauai Now.

Roadwork scheduled on Kauai. A number of road-related projects are on tap in the days ahead with grass cutting, tree trimming and guardrail repair making up the bulk of the work, the Hawaii Department of Transportation said in an update on Friday, Oct. 4. Garden Island.

Traffic crashes increase, federal grant to remove obstacles to housing production, indoor air quality sends 90 Honolulu city employees to work from home, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Traffic crashes increase. The Hawaii Police Department’s Traffic Services Section reviewed all updated crashes, according to a news release, and found 498 major crashes so far this year, compared with 429 the same time last year, a 16% increase.  Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Josh Green signs Hawaii agriculture bills into law.  Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday signed 11 agriculture-related bills to protect Hawaii’s biosecurity, preserve the safety of the state’s food systems and safeguard local farmers and producers through fair labeling. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Green: Hawaii awarded new federal grant aimed at removing obstacles to housing production. Gov. Josh Green and U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced $6.6 million in federal funds for Hawaii as part of an effort to build and preserve more affordable housing. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Gov. Josh Green says Biden was ‘sick and exhausted’ before debate. Gov. Josh Green said he came away from a conference call Wednesday with President Joe Biden and other Democratic governors feeling like the president was a “different individual” from the one in the distressing performance during the 2024 election debate.  Star-Advertiser. New York Times.

Hawaii sheriff policies changing amid ongoing harassment cases. New details revealed about allegations in harassment case against deputy sheriffs. Deputy Sheriff William Gary’s case involves accusations of him making derogatory comments about gay people toward a deputy sheriff, an inappropriate photo on a state computer, and an incident where he allegedly shoved the deputy. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

UHERO report highlights ocean-based industries to diversify the economy. Water-based industries featured in the report include boat building, harbor operations and water transportation, given Hawaiʻi's strong existing ties to the ocean. But fishing and aquaculture in particular could have the highest potential to add to the state’s economy. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Indoor air quality concerns force nearly 100 employees at Honolulu Hale to work remotely. The city Office for Corporation Counsel is now locked with signs on the door directing people to call instead of visiting. On May 10, all 90 employees in the office were notified by email that they were to “collect everything they need to telework” until further notice. Hawaii News Now.

Coral Colonies Severely Damaged Off Kewalo Basin, Divers Say. Local conservationists and scuba divers say they found coral colonies off Kewalo Basin “obliterated” last week after commercial divers warned them to stay away because diving there would be dangerous during their work. Civil Beat.

How the Supreme Court's sit-lie ban could impact Honolulu's homeless enforcement. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that municipalities can enforce sit-lie and camping ordinances against homeless people, even if there aren't enough shelter beds available.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Tow company remains silent on overcharges. A city-contracted tow company has not responded in the wake of the city’s decision that it must refund more than $650,000 in extra fees to hundreds of registered vehicle owners on Oahu or see its annual, three-year contract with the city terminated. Star-Advertiser.

City Ordered To Partially Halt Haiku Stairs Dismantling As Lawsuit Appeal Continues. The order allows the city to remove stair sections only if they were already separated from the mountain. Civil Beat.

Miske Defense Rests After Casting Doubt On Alleged Crime Boss’s Involvement In Conspiracy. Michael Miske's defense attorneys highlighted a lack of forensic evidence linking him to crime scenes and brought up possible alternative explanations for the disappearance of Johnathan Fraser, whom Miske is accused of conspiring to have killed. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit Against DOE Questions Suspension Of Student For Bringing A Nerf Gun To School. Stevenson Middle School initially suspended nine students in January for having toy guns that were considered a threat to campus safety. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Harry Kim Endorses Kobayashi For Mayor. Former Hawaiʻi County Mayor and Civil Defense director Harry Kim has endorsed Breeani Kobayashi for mayor.  Big Island Video News.

Petitioners appeal decision regarding Lee Loy. Petitioners who sought to disqualify Hawaii County Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy from running for the state House District 2 seat are appealing Hawaii Chief Election Officer Scott Nago’s decision that she is eligible to run. Tribune-Herald.

Removal of Caltech observatory completed. Caltech released a statement Tuesday announcing that all of the observatory’s facilities have been removed from the summit nearly nine years after it ceased operations at the end of 2015. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Military aircraft alert for Hawaii Island.  The public is advised that depending on weather, jet engine and aircraft noise may increase over Pohakuloa Training Area and West Hawaii from July 8 through Aug. 2 as military aircraft participate in the 2024 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. Tribune-Herald.

People reliant on powered medical devices urged to plan for outages. West Hawaii residents who are dependent upon electrical medical devices are strongly advised to make plans for potential power outages this summer. Tribune-Herald.

How ‘ōkolehao, an alcoholic spirit made of tī root, could change the liquor industry. Hawaiʻi's first-ever alcoholic spirit made from the root of the tī plant may soon get a boost in popularity from a Big Island brewery.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui County wrestles with collecting transient accommodations taxes. The County Auditor’s report shows that, for fiscal year 2022, the county recognized over $56.9 million in Maui County TAT on its financial statements. But, as of June 30, 2022, only $40 million was deposited into the county’s treasury. Maui Now.

Over 30 rebuilding permits have been issued after the fire. Here’s how some Lahaina homeowners did it. The process of getting a rebuilding permit has been fast for some residents, but factors like the design and location can also impact the timeline. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Nonprofit Gets State Permit After Losing Office In Lahaina Fire. The organization Na Aikane o Maui operated a cultural center in Lahaina but its previous permit expired one day after the Aug. 8 wildfire. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kaua‘i is most limited in diversifying its economy compared to all counties in state, UHERO report reveals. In a tourism-concentrated economy, University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization, also known as UHERO, released the report Tuesday, which looks at ways the state could diversify as tourism revenue has shown inconsistent and slow growth for the past 30 years. Kauai Now.

Opponents of Coco Palms redevelopment hail a court ruling, but it may not stop the rebuilding. The long saga of Coco Palms on Kauai may be heading back to court after a three-judge panel canceled a foreclosure deal that led to the current redevelopment. Hawaii News Now.

Strong start to summer travel season at Lihu‘e Airport. A busy start to the summer travel season at Lihu‘e Airport saw more passengers arriving via domestic flights and longer wait times for people leaving the island of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Food production a Senate priority, Saiki supports public election financing bills, lawmakers mull HECO lawsuit bailout bills, judge recuses himself in Kaneshiro corruption case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State lawmakers dish out their food and agriculture priorities for the legislative session. Agriculture and food security have been a priority since the start of the legislative session last week. They were a large part of Senate President Ron Kouchi’s opening remarks. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOE's Farm to School program moves forward with growing support from state leaders.  The goal of the state Department of Education program is to use local agriculture to feed students. Hawaii Public Radio.

Saiki supports bills for full public financing of political campaigns.  House Speaker Scott Saiki has thrown his support behind an effort for full public financing for political candidates starting in 2028, which proponents say would reduce the temptation for political corruption and perhaps lead to a new generation of younger elected officials who aren’t beholden to special interests and corporations. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaii Lawmakers Are Considering Ways To Help HECO Pay Maui Fire Costs. Hawaiian Electric says proposed legislation is not intended to shift any lawsuit settlements to consumers. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers weigh big funding asks to tackle wildfire, climate change mitigation. Recovery from the the Maui wildfires is a priority, but so is climate change and lawmakers grilled the state attorney general Wednesday about a lawsuit filed by children. Hawaii News Now.

‘Abusive’ Lawsuits, Early Child Care Lead Hawaii Women’s Caucus Package Of Bills. The bipartisan group of legislators finds joining forces helps get measures passed at the Legislature.  Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Many 'emergency hire' teachers brought in to fight Hawaii's teacher shortage. Gov. Josh Green is requesting more than $125 million in the state budget for public education. Green said his administration has helped reduce the state's teacher shortage by more than 50% in the past year. KITV4.

Oahu

Judge Backs Out Of Honolulu Corruption Case At Last Minute. U.S. District Court Judge Michael Seabright filed a one-sentence order on Wednesday morning declaring his recusal from the case against former Honolulu prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro and local businessman Dennis Mitsunaga. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Council approves federal agreement to fund rail. A critical hurdle to getting a long-awaited injection of cash for Honolulu’s lumbering rail project was crossed Wednesday when the Honolulu City Council signed off on its end of an agreement for federal funding. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Businesses Hurt By Rail Construction Could Get Relief But Hurdles Remain. The City Council approved an effort to jump-start an existing fund, but it's unclear where the money will come from. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Testimony shifts to alleged kidnapping in Miske trial. A former employee of Michael J. Miske’s businesses testified Wednesday that his boss used violence to get his way and helped him coordinate the kidnapping of an accountant. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

Honolulu emergency agency leaders revive official who collapsed at City Council hearing. Honolulu Emergency Services Department Director Jim Ireland, Honolulu Fire Department Chief Sheldon Hao, and Honolulu Police Department Deputy Chief Rade Vanic and Acting Major Mikel Kunishima were attending the hearing when a 60-year-old testifier identified as Hawaii Community Development Authority Chairperson Brian Lee “became unresponsive,” according to a news release. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Turkish Coffee Or Universal Khaki? Another Honolulu Condo Dispute Goes To Court. The lawsuit alleges the condo board has resurrected old dispute to retaliate against owner. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Dozens express strong opposition to County Council’s short-term rental measure. A proposal to rewrite how Hawaii County regulates short-term vacation rentals led to hours of backlash from residents accusing the County Council of overreach. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Council Rejects $1 Million From State To Plan A Lower Puna Traffic Relief Route. Council members voted 6-2 to decline the state funding after hearing hours of emotional testimony from residents on Hawaiian Home Lands in Panaewa and Keaukaha.  Civil Beat. Big Island Now.  KITV4.

State to get $74.6M to fix Nanue, Hakalau bridges. Hawaii will receive $74.6 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the rehabilitation of the Nanue and Hakalau bridges on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Last-Minute Bill Introduced To Support Long-Term Maui Wildfire Exposure Study. Hawaii lawmakers are being asked to pony up funds to support a comprehensive study of residents affected by the Aug. 8 fires. Civil Beat.

State legislature introduces Maui County Council’s proposal for paid family leave. Maui County Councilmember Gabe Johnson announced the introduction of state legislation seeking to mandate access to paid family leave for state and county employees. Maui Now.

Staffing shortage results in delay of management plan for Maui north shore parcels. The department had anticipated beginning the area’s management plan in early 2024 with the help of a consultant; however, due to unexpected staffing changes over the last month, the project start date will be postponed to later this year.  Maui Now.

Kauai

PETA condemns Zuckerberg’s ‘cockamamie cattle project’ on Kauai. Animal rights group PETA has launched a national empathy campaign following Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s announcement that he started a cattle-raising operation on his Kauai property. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kawakami outlined top Kaua‘i priorities to Hawai‘i Congressional Delegation during visit to Washington D.C. Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami traveled last week to Washington, D.C., to participate in the U.S. Conference of Mayors 92nd Winter Meeting. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i Economic Development Board breaks ground on renovation project. The high tech workforce development program involves classes and certification of areas, including digital animation, Native Hawaiian storytelling, Unreal Engine Training, a CID Creative Lab or music ideation program and Game Dev HQ. Garden Island.