Showing posts with label biofuel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label biofuel. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Defending Hawaii against missiles, Honolulu rail school impact fee fails, Omidyar-backed Kauai dairy pauses EIS, felons to remain in jail, 'Styrofoam' ban advances on Big Island, biofuel crops planned for Maui, state Capitol crumbling, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Pacific Missile Range, Kauai © 2017 All Hawaii News
At the request of Congress, the federal Missile Defense Agency is evaluating the threat to Hawaii from ballistic missiles and possible defenses against them. Civil Beat.

A bill that would have authorized the head of the state Department of Public Safety to release some convicted felons to ease overcrowding in state-run jails appears to be dead for the session. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Count On Hawaii To Ignore Logical Prison Report. In the rush to build a new prison, the Legislature is likely to shunt aside the work of a task force it created just last year. Civil Beat.

A state agency hopes to sell carbon offset credits linked to reforestation. Star-Advertiser.

Representatives from Hawai’i’s hospitality industry converged on the State Capitol today to brief lawmakers on their legislative priorities. Hawaii Public Radio.

High-schoolers are some of the loudest champions of a bill seeking to ban the use of disposable foam containers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmaker Accepted Junket From Turkish Opposition Group. Sen. J. Kalani English is among 151 state legislators nationwide whose official travel has been tied to exiled cleric Fethullah Gulen. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Community Reinvestment Corp. has donated $790,000 to establish the HCRC Distinguished Professorship in Affordable Housing at the University of Hawaii to teach the next generation about affordable housing strategies and develop policy alternatives. Pacific Business News.

State officials believe falling exterior ceiling tiles at the Hawaii State Capitol are the result of strong winds on Monday and this past weekend. Civil Beat.

Matson Inc. delivered more containers and automobiles to Hawaii in 2016, but the largest ocean cargo company serving the state had rough sailing in other areas, which resulted in a 22 percent profit decline last year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The state school board for a second time has rejected an impact fee the Department of Education contends it needs to accommodate the estimated 10,000 students expected to enroll in urban Honolulu schools as developments pop up along the city’s rail line. Star-Advertiser.

A plan to charge developers along the rail line hundreds of millions of dollars in school impact fees has stalled. Hawaii News Now.

State lawmakers say they’re unlikely to get the briefing they want from the city rail system’s federal partners before they must decide what to do about Oahu’s cash-strapped transit project. Star-Advertiser.

While Honolulu may be the eighth-most traffic-congested city in the U.S., Oahu residents can take some solace in the fact that the problem isn't getting any worse, according to data from the 2017 TomTom Traffic Index. Pacific Business News.

A new bill before the Honolulu City Council would expand the city’s law banning people from sitting and lying down on certain public sidewalks to parts of Kalihi and Iwilei. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of Airbnb listings in Honolulu are raking in six figures in annual revenue, according to a monthly market report by Airdna, the analytics arm of the online vacation rental platform, which ranked the top 10 highest-performing vacation listings for all accommodation sizes. Pacific Business News.

The state Public Utilities Commission is holding a hearing tonight about Hawaiian Electric Co.’s request to increase rates. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Biotech Inc. moved into its new research and development laboratory and headquarters at Dole Cannery in Honolulu on Tuesday, with staff hopeful the new 11,000 square foot space will facilitate greater efficiency as well as provide the company with access to much-needed emergency power. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Biotech Inc. opened a $3 million laboratory at Dole Cannery this week to continue its research of vaccines that can combat viruses such as Zika, West Nile and Ebola. Star-Advertiser.

The man who breached airport security in Honolulu and later died was court-ordered to be at a drug rehabilitation center just a week and a half before the incident. KHON2.

Hawaii

Foam food containers were back on the table Tuesday, when the County Council Environmental Management Committee on a 5-3 vote advanced a bill restricting those made of polystyrene. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council Committee on Environmental Management gave a positive recommendation to a bill that would reduce the use of Styrofoam food containers on Hawaii Island. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County will not pay any penalties for terminating its composting and mulching contract, according to Mayor Harry Kim. Tribune-Herald.

The chief financial officer of Youth With a Mission’s University of the Nations in Kona stole $2.5 million from the international Christian school, owns a gold mine in Africa and kept loose diamonds in a safe deposit box, a federal prosecutor said Tuesday in U.S. District Court. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Public scoping meetings for Alexander & Baldwin’s application to the state Board of Land and Natural Resources for a 30-year lease (holdover water permits) for water from streams in Nahiku, Keanae and Huelo are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 22 and 23, at two different locations on Maui. Maui Now.

Biofuel crops, including sunflowers, will be grown on 115 acres in Maui’s central valley as part of a demonstration project this month, according to an announcement from Pacific Biodiesel. Maui News.

The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas has named Chris Rabang as general manager ahead of the time-share resort’s April opening. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Hawaii Dairy Farms, the planned dairy operation on Kauai being funded by Pierre Omidyar’s social investment firm Ulupono Initiative, has withdrawn the project’s final environmental impact statement to expand responses to comments submitted during the process. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Dairy Farms took a step back in its plan to put a dairy on Kauai by withdrawing its Final Environmental Impact Statement from state consideration on Tuesday. Garden Island.

Hundreds on Kauai may have faulty solar parts. Garden Island.

A hearing is scheduled March 22 for Kauai Community College’s proposal to reclassify 148.5 acres of land from agricultural to urban usage. Garden Island.

Misuse of funds, poor record keeping, and violations of state animal euthanasia laws are just some of the findings of a recent audit of the Kauai Humane Society. Hawaii News Now.

A man accused of beating up a monk seal last year is expected to change his plea today. Garden Island.

Representatives of the Kauai Beer Company are proposing a private-public partnership to renovate Kalena Park. Garden Island.

Friday, March 4, 2016

Ivory prohibition sought, cigarette taxes advance, former Mayor Kim to run again, Honolulu mayor vetoes recycling bill, Coco Palms to become a Hyatt, state consumer advocate says biogas not renewable, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Elephants at Honolulu Zoo © 2016 All Hawaii News
Hawaii’s black market ivory trade is thriving online, in stores and at swap meets, animal activist groups claimed Thursday. Civil Beat.

Wildlife advocates met at the Hawaii Capitol on Thursday to discuss the state’s illegal ivory trade, which they say could become the largest in the U.S. if left unregulated. Associated Press.

A proposal to allow Hawaii voters to decide whether to impose term limits on state lawmakers died this week after Senate Judiciary and Labor Chairman Gilbert Keith-Agaran told his fellow committee members he was shelving the bill indefinitely. Star-Advertiser.

The House Finance Committee breathed new life into spending bills Thursday by waiving the 48-hour notice typically required for a hearing, including House Bill 1932, which would appropriate funds to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Civil Beat.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee approved measures this week to tax e-cigarettes and prohibit smoking of any kind in cars containing minors. Civil Beat.

Political junkies have had a lot to watch this year as national elections have been playing out through caucuses and primaries around the country. But Hawaii’s 2016 election season is ramping up, too, with both the state Republican caucuses and the Democrats’ presidential preference poll in March. Civil Beat.

Interest in this year’s presidential election is at record levels in many states across the country, and the respective party chairs in Hawaii say it’s no exception here. KHON2.

Local Republicans can have their say Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at dozens of precinct locations across the state. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is the only state that holds its statewide primary election on a Saturday. This year, the primary is Aug. 13. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii resident who contracted the Zika virus while traveling in the Pacific is the first case of the mosquito-borne virus confirmed in the state so far this year, officials said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The state has confirmed the first imported case of Zika in Hawaii this year. Hawaii News Now.

Investors wanting to own commercial real estate in Hawaii bought a near-record amount of such property last year. Star-Advertiser.

More than half of Airbnb hosts in Hawaii rented space last year in their primary homes, rather than second homes or vacation rentals, according to a new survey by the alternative lodging service. Pacific Business News.

You may have heard that growing numbers of kama‘āina are renting out rooms on Airbnb, but how many are doing so? And why? Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

A bill that would give Schnitzer Steel Hawaii Co. and other smaller recyclers a 25 percent discount on refuse disposal fees was vetoed Thursday by Mayor Kirk Caldwell, likely setting up an override vote by the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has vetoed a bill that would have provided a $600,000 annual subsidy to recycling companies. The vast majority — $530,000 — would have gone to Schnitzer Steel Industries, an Oregon-based company that reported $1.9 billion in revenue last year. Civil Beat.

The city and state spent more than $9,000 to send four state and city employees to Florida last week to inspect a new $118,117 boat that the Hawaii Community Development Authority is buying for water safety in Kakaako’s Kewalo Basin. Civil Beat.

A City Council bill that proposes a moratorium on the construction of larger developments from Aiea to Kalihi is generating support from several residents and officials who view the measure as a way to help address traffic congestion. Star-Advertiser.

Former and current residents say the Oasis townhouses in Waipahu have turned into a haven for rats. Hawaii News Now.

As a “homeless concerns” liaison in Hawaii’s public schools, Clyde Aikau tracks nearly 300 students and their families. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Former Mayor Harry Kim is jumping into the mayoral race once again. Kim said Thursday he’s decided to run again, this time on a campaign to restore trust in government. West Hawaii Today.

Former Big Island Mayor Harry Kim says he wants his old job back. Hawaii News Now.

A Windward Planning Commission meeting got heated Thursday when testifiers scolded Hawaii County officials because a proposed study on the impacts of geothermal development on Native Hawaiians is stuck in bureaucratic limbo. Tribune-Herald.

A judge has recused himself from hearing a voter fraud case against a blogger who ran unsuccessfully for County Council in 2014. Tribune-Herald.

Festooned with lei and applauded by a full room of staff and well-wishers, Randy Kurohara was confirmed Wednesday by a unanimous County Council vote as the county’s new managing director. West Hawaii Today.

Nearly 49 percent of electricity provided to the Big Island by the Hawaii Electric Light Co. in 2015 came from renewable energy, according to a statement from HELCO’s parent company, Hawaiian Electric. Civil Beat.

Maui

The state consumer advocate is calling on the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission to reject the idea that Anaergia's proposal to sell biogas to Maui Electric Co. is the equivalent of renewable energy. Maui News.

The Maui County Liquor Commission plans to choose the next Department of Liquor Control director at its regular monthly meeting next week after interviewing all four candidates on Wednesday. Maui News.

The state House today advanced several bills including legislation in support of Maui sugar workers, ahead of next week’s crossover deadline. Maui Now.

A two-year time extension request for a 100 percent affordable housing project in Kihei is headed to the Maui County Council on Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Pledging to continue her decades-long commitment to community service, Norma Doctor Sparks of Koloa has announced her candidacy for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Kauai's iconic Coco Palms Resort
is getting ready to reopen again under a new brand. The scheduled reopening date is spring of 2018 and will be part of a new brand called 'Unbound collection by Hyatt.' Hawaii News Now.

The Kapaa refuse transfer station will be accepting only bagged trash and green waste today to allow for the repaving of Kahi Road, the roadway leading up to the transfer station. Garden Island.

Friday, March 6, 2015

Hawaiian Airlines cuts legroom, chief elections officer could face reviews, Honolulu committee advances Hoopili development, snubs Malaekahana, new charter school approved, Maui hospital denied, Kaui forest to be burned for fuel, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaiian Airlines interior © 015 All Hawaii News
Hawaiian Airlines passengers won't be able to recline their seats on any interisland flights by the end of this year. The state's largest carrier said Thursday it is retrofitting the 18 Boeing 717 aircraft it uses on interisland routes with new lightweight seats that will reduce legroom by about an inch under a reconfiguration and allow the airline to add five to 10 more passengers on each flight. Star-Advertiser.

The state's chief elections officer would have to undergo a performance evaluation after each general election under a plan approved by the state Senate. The bill, SB 622, requires the Elections Commission to provide the written performance evaluation to the Legislature. Associated Press.

Despite concerns from the departments of Health and Human Services, Hawaii lawmakers are pushing forward bills that would help the adult care-home industry make more money while potentially compromising the quality of services provided to those most in need. Civil Beat.

A bill that would make an exception for married couples who do not receive Medicaid to live together in the same Community Care Foster Family Home is advancing through the state House of Representatives. Star-Advertiser.

As a mark of respect for the late former state Rep. Diana “Mele” Carroll, Gov. David Ige has ordered that the flags of the United States and State of Hawaii shall be flown at half-staff at all state offices and agencies, as well as the Hawaii National Guard, from sunrise to sunset Friday to recognize services held on Oahu and Sunday, which is the day services will be held on Maui. West Hawaii Today.

The commercial solar energy market in Hawaii has turned into a race of sorts, a race for businesses to get their systems in place before a federal tax credit sunsets at the end of 2016. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The City Council Zoning and Planning Committee gave a preliminary thumbs up Thursday to one landscape-changing development scheme and a thumbs down to another one. A rezoning request for D.R. Horton Schuler Division's 11,750-home Hoo­pili project in West Oahu advanced 5-0. But Hawaii Reserve Inc.'s plan to develop a section of Malaekahana, between Laie and Kahuku, appears to be in serious jeopardy. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Zoning and Planning Committee approved a planning document for the North Shore on Thursday but amended it to remove a highly controversial new residential community at Gunstock Ranch in Malaekahana. Civil Beat.

Ho’opili, a major residential and commercial project on O’ahu cleared its first major hurdle today following the completion of public testimony before a Honolulu City Council Committee. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Honolulu City Council committee has advanced a proposed development in West Oahu. The council’s zoning committee gave the green light Thursday for Hoopili’s next step. KHON2.

One controversial housing development has hit a major roadblock, while another in Kapolei has been given the green light to go ahead.The Honolulu City Council's Zoning Committee approved Bill 47 without including Envision Laie, a proposal that would have included nearly 900 new homes at Malaekahana in the Koolauloa section of Windward Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

After more than four hours of testimony Thursday, the City Council’s Zoning and Planning Committee approved the removal of language from the Koolau Loa Sustainable Communities Plan that could have paved the way for 875 homes to be built on land at Malaekahana. KITV4.

Oahu communities roundly oppose Malaekahana development. At a press conference today, the opposition to Malaekahana development expressed their reasons for supporting zoning chair Ikaika Anderson's proposed amendments to Bill 47. Hawaii Independent.

Elected leaders at Honolulu Hale and the state Capitol have been watching closely to see how their colleagues across Punchbowl Street will respond to rail's budget crisis. Now at least one Hono­­lulu City Council member appears concerned that his chamber might have waited too long to weigh in on a rail tax extension. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Pacific Health, the state's largest medical provider, is exploring a purchase of all or part of the financially struggling Wahiawa General Hospital. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Oahu General Plan Provides Diversification and Sustainability. The Oahu General Plan is not perfect but it provides land-use diversification and sustainability for our small island home. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The state’s only new charter school is set to open its doors in Ka‘u in July, following unanimous approval of its facilities Thursday by the Windward Planning Commission. West Hawaii Today.

Just over a year after North Hawaii Community Hospital merged with The Queen’s Health Systems, the Waimea facility is adding new equipment, rebuilding a management team and laying groundwork for stabilizing its workforce. Efforts to recruit badly needed doctors are also moving ahead, although more slowly than many would like, the hospital’s president Ken Graham told West Hawaii Today in an interview.

Christina (Tina) Neal has been chosen to serve as the new scientist-in-charge of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Neal succeeds Jim Kauahikaua, who served in the position for the past 10 years. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's new scientist-in-charge is coming to Hawaii from Alaska where she has been mapping and studying active Alaskan volcanoes for more than two decades. Garden Island.

Home prices on Hawaii's Big Island rose by single digits in February, while sales of condominiums rose and sales of single-family homes fell, according to data released by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee decided Thursday to re-examine rules and guidelines in the county's transportation contract for residents with disabilities with Maui Economic Opportunity amid recurring complaints from riders. Maui News.

The state Health Planning and Development Agency has ruled against Regency Namakua's application to build a 40-bed skilled nursing and intermediate-care facility at the Maui Research and Technology Park in Kihei. Maui News.

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza and District Court Judge Adrianne Heely will hear Maui County's environmental cases when the new statewide environmental court program comes on line beginning July 1. Maui News.

Kauai

Legal costs and fees to defend County of Kauai officials in two lawsuits filed by county employees totaled a little more than half a million dollars before settlements were reached, according to documents obtained by The Garden Island.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources and private partners have launched a $1 million-plus project that aims to remove 15,000 tons of burned pine and eucalyptus trees, many of them dead and standing hazards, and then replant with healthy hardwoods, including a large section of natives such as koa. As part of the project, the logs will be hauled off to Kauai's new $90 million Green Energy biomass plant, where they will be burned to generate electric power. Star-Advertiser.

The state has started cutting down trees on 300 acres of Kauai forest reserve that were scorched by wildfire in 2012 and sending the wood to be processed at a new biomass-to-energy plant. Associated Press.

The median price of a single-family home on Kauai shot up by more than 46 percent in February as the median price on the North Shore passed $1 million, according to data released by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Honolulu Zoo appeals to council, legislative power brokers direct bills, Kauai biofuel plant fired up, rail costs 'alarming,' prison guard misconduct, e-cigs spark ethics complaint, more government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Giraffe at Honolulu Zoo © 2015 All Hawaii News

Loss of accreditation could spell disaster for Honolulu Zoo. That’s according to zoo officials who briefed the Honolulu City Council Tuesday on the status of the zoo. KHON2.

How a Handful of Hawaii Lawmakers Quietly Shapes an Entire Session. House and Senate leaders can give bills a 'kiss of death' or fast-track them toward passage by choosing what committees should hear the legislation. Civil Beat.

An all-encompassing bill aimed at tackling the state's affordable-housing shortage has moved out of a key committee. House Bill 1354, introduced by Rep. John Mizuno (D, Kame­ha­meha Heights-Kalihi Valley) and co-authored by seven others, calls for allocating at least $225 million to various housing agencies with the goal of increasing the market's inventory of homes for low-income and homeless families. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers moved forward a bill Tuesday that would dismantle the recently established regulatory framework for building an interisland cable system to transport electricity from renewable energy projects such as wind, solar and geothermal. But a key lawmaker said the measure designed to derail such a system isn’t likely to ultimately pass the Legislature. Civil Beat.

A number of bills are advancing in the legislature that would outlaw the sale of electronic smoking devices and liquids to minors under the age of 21. Hawaii Public Radio.

Recent bad acts by Hawaii police are fueling a record number of police accountability bills at the Hawaii Legislature this year. On Tuesday, eight bills passed through Sen. Will Espero’s Public Safety Committee with little objection from him or his colleagues, some of whom have been calling for more oversight. Civil Beat.

Following a wave of alleged police corruption, criticism and missteps, a state Senate Committee on Tuesday passed an array of measures aimed at providing greater oversight of the Hono­lulu Police Department and law enforcement in general. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are looking for ways to increase oversight of the state’s police officers after reports of domestic violence by off-duty officers led to diminished trust. Associated Press.

A former prison guard is being sentenced for taking bribes from a Hawaii gang to smuggle drugs and cigarettes to inmates. Feso Malufau is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday. Associated Press.

According to the Department of Public Safety, 18 corrections officers were disciplined last year for various cases of misconduct, including a three-day suspension for erroneously releasing an inmate, a 30-day suspension for workplace violence and one officer who was fired for bringing in contraband. Two sheriffs were disciplined last year for assault of an inmate and failing to properly manage the assault. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering redefining what constitutes rape on University of Hawaii campuses by requiring UH to adopt a so-called affirmative consent standard for investigating sexual assault complaints. Star-Advertiser.

Three Big Island lawmakers have introduced legislation to give terminally ill patients access to drugs and medical treatment that have not received final approval by the federal Food and Drug Administration. The proposed bills — House Bill 882 and House Bill 92 and Senate Bill 585 — are part of a national movement, dubbed “Right to Try,” that has been gaining momentum. West Hawaii Today.

Opinion: If you need more evidence that our regulation of lobbyists is less than robust, consider the Hawaii State Ethics Commission’s most recent enforcement action. On Feb. 2, 2015 the commission announced it had levied fines against the Land Use Research Foundation, a prominent developer-backed advocacy group, and David Arakawa, the foundation’s executive director, for failing to comply with the state’s lobbyist law during the years from 2008 through 2014. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Which Lawmakers Are the First to Hold Fundraisers During Session? UPDATE Keeping track of of who is taking money since the Hawaii Legislature opened for business. Cha-ching!. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Despite holding monthly sessions on the best ways to keep costs from getting out of hand, the third-party contractor monitoring Hono­lulu's public rail transit project says that it's seeing "minimal" cost containment and calls the trend "alarming." Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell will sign Bill 62 into law on Wednesday, banning sitting and lying in four outdoor malls in the downtown business district, according to a press release from the mayor’s office. Civil Beat.

City officials are contacting roughly 10,000 retailers on Oahu this week to remind them about a major change that will be coming to checkout counters. Some businesses are already gearing up for the plastic bag ban that starts on July 1. Hawaii News Now.

A resolution urging Mayor Kirk Caldwell to develop a demonstration project exploring the viability of shipping containers for low-cost housing won a nod from the City Council Public Health, Safety and Welfare Committee on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The American Dream Is Broken for the Middle Class. The cost of living has eaten away at Honolulu residents' incomes, raising profound questions about many people's future. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

A purveyor of electronic cigarette products has filed an ethics complaint against Hawaii County Council Chairman Dru Kanuha, saying Kanuha was unduly influenced by unregistered lobbyists and didn’t listen to constituents in two recent anti-smoking bills. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Transportation hopes to begin work on the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project this summer. West Hawaii Today.

The owners of Hilo Lanes are asking $3.75 million for the shuttered bowling alley. The business at 777 Kinoole St. closed abruptly in May after operating for 54 years when its air-conditioning broke. Tribune-Herald.

Kauai

Green Energy Team LLC’s $90 million biomass-to-energy facility in Koloa is now hot. The 6.7-megawatt facility is located near Knudsen Gap and will provide about 11 percent of the island’s electricity, relying completely on wood chips. Garden Island.

Developers seeking to rebuild and reopen the historic Coco Palms Resort in Wailua have to wait at least another two more weeks before any decisions are made on their building permits. The Kauai County Planning Commission on Tuesday was unable to make a decision on the construction plans and building permits for Coco Palms Hui LLC. Garden Island.

County of Kauai officials say they will close the dirt parking lot that runs along Nawiliwili Stream and behind the Anchor Cove Shopping Center next week for a two-day pothole repair project. Garden Island.

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Dirty tricks in Hawaii Legislature, Democrats fight open primary, 2k acres of Maui farmland could go to bioenergy, state mental hospital under fire, safe harbor for child prostitutes, Obamacare health exchange seeks more money, Pfleuger trial delayed again, developer stymied by graves, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2014 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2014 All Hawaii News
A series of bills lawmakers passed in the Hawaii Senate were drafted without giving the public the proper chance to weigh in, following a “gut-and-replace” maneuver scorned by government watchdog groups. Associated Press.

The Democratic Party of Hawaii argues in a new legal filing that there is no important difference between Hawaii's open primary and a California blanket primary that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled was unconstitutional in 2000. The Democratic Party of Hawaii has challenged the state's open primary as a violation of the First Amendment right to free association. The party wants to restrict primaries to party members and voters who publicly choose to affiliate with the party before the elections. Star-Advertiser.

The head of the Hawaii Health Connector told a panel of lawmakers Wednesday that the troubled health exchange will need $4.7 million to be financially sustainable next year. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Health Connector, which has struggled to enroll Hawaii residents in health insurance plans, is proposing to shift a key part of the application process to the state Department of Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate has passed a measure that would allow some child prostitutes to go free, in the hopes of sending them to so-called "safe harbors," such as social service agencies. Hawaii News Now.

Sens. Josh Green and Clayton Hee are certain nepotism runs rampant at the Hawaii State Hospital, they’re just looking for more proof. During an investigative committee hearing Wednesday, the senators peppered the hospital’s acting administrator William Elliott with questions about hiring practices and employee relationships at the facility. Civil Beat.

The acting director of the troubled Hawaii State Hospital admitted Wednesday that he lacks the minimum educational qualifications to head the facility and was grilled about charges that managers manipulate the hiring process to unfairly hire some of their relatives. Hawaii News Now.

The state Senate Education Committee unanimously voted Wednesday to recommend retired bank executive Don Horner for a second term on the board overseeing Hawaii public schools, crediting his leadership as chairman for recent strides in student achievement and more accountability within the Department of Education. Star-Advertiser.

The Senate Education Committee got an earful Wednesday about why Don Horner should not be reappointed to a new three-year term as chairman of the Hawaii Board of Education. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat obtained Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s travel records for August, September and October in response to a Uniform Information Practices Act request.

Hawaii state government no longer is failing when it comes to spending transparency. The U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund’s new report “Following the Money 2014: How the 50 States Rate in Providing Online Access to Government Spending Data” gives Hawaii a “C” this year. Hawaii Reporter.

On Tap at the Hawaii Legislature: April 10. A selective list of bills, resolutions, hearings, briefings and events for Thursday at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu city and rail leaders are in Washington, D.C., this week to discuss the latest on the island's 20-mile transit project with lawmakers and transportation officials. Star-Advertiser.

Three bills designed to significantly increase penalties and stiffen other language against illegal dumping, stockpiling and grading have been introduced by West Oahu City Councilwoman Kymberly Pine to stem a growing environmental problem along the Leeward Coast. Star-Advertiser.

The Palolo Chinese Home has received a $750,000 capital improvement grant from the state of Hawaii on Wednesday to support the fourth phase of the nonprofit’s $25.5 million master plan to build a progressive care complex. Pacific Business News.

King's Village, a retail complex in Waikiki designed to resemble Honolulu around 1900, along with Prince Edward Apartments and Hale Waikiki would be razed to make way for a project's 256-unit condominium hotel, parking deck, retail and office center, and a small park. Star-Advertiser.

Veteran Honolulu editor A. Kam Napier has been named editor-in-chief of Pacific Business News, Publisher Bob Charlet announced Wednesday.

Hawaii

Maile David can keep her position as deputy county clerk while running for the County Council, the Board of Ethics voted Wednesday after hearing about certain “shields” that have been put into place to protect the integrity of the election. West Hawaii Today.

The head of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources visited Honokohau Harbor on Wednesday to make the case that the island is not getting the short end of the stick. West Hawaii Today.

Keauhou Bay isn’t too shallow to accommodate planned expanded use there, several proposed new moorings won’t prevent Keauhou Canoe Club from operating in the bay and the Department of Land and Natural Resources isn’t in violation of Chapter 343, the state statute that requires environmental assessments for state projects. Those were just some of the denials DLNR made in its response to Keauhou Canoe Club’s lawsuit, filed in December, about the department’s plan to add moorings to the bay. West Hawaii Today.

Developers of a proposed timeshare and single-family home development just above Alii Drive say they’re working with families concerned about graves on the site and preparing a revised cultural impact statement before proceeding with their plans. West Hawaii Today.

The state House of Representatives voted in favor of a bill that looks to further implement the University of Hawaii and Hawaii Community College’s aviation programs on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Kona police officer delivers his own baby in squad car. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

A California-based renewable energy company hopes to revitalize about 2,000 acres of West Maui's fallow farm lands to grow a biocrop that could be used to generate electricity while using county wastewater for irrigation. Maui News.

The Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee is considering deferring the mayor's proposed water service fee increases until it gets more input from the public. Maui News.

A grenade and 12-inch mortar shell, found by a man in his late father's belongings, were disposed of at the Ukumehame Firing Range on Tuesday night by a bomb disposal team in an incident that shutdown the Maui County Service Center, parking lots in the area and part of East Kamehameha Avenue for most of the afternoon and early evening. Maui News.

The public is invited to comment on the Maui Police Department's services and performance as a team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies will be visiting Maui County Monday to April 17. Maui News.

Kauai

Big changes, Kauai County officials say, are in store for Hardy Street as contractors fine tune the last details needed to kick off a multi-million dollar project aimed at improving connectivity in the area. Garden Island.

Sentencing has once again been delayed for James Pflueger. The retired car dealer pleaded no contest in July to first-degree reckless endangerment for his role in the deadly 2006 Ka Loko dam disaster on Kauai’s North Shore. Garden Island.

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Lucky we live Hawaii, the healthiest state. Molasses spill killed coral, Hawaii Obamacare premiums disclosed, Molokai may buy electric utility, rail evictions loom, Honolulu faces $2.5M fine in affordable housing deal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Kupuna hula (c) 2013 All Hawaii News
Hawaii is the healthiest state in the nation, while Mississippi brings up the rear, according to the 2013 America's Health Rankings released today. The 50th state has consistently ranked near the top in the long-running index issued by United Health Foundation, which provides a comprehensive look at the well-being of each state. Hawaii placed second last year and third the year before. Star-Advertiser.

Ranked in the top five healthiest states for the past decade, Hawai`i this year rose to the top spot in a survey conducted by the United Health Foundation. The rankings in the “America’s Health Rankings: A Call to Action for Individuals & Their Communities” released today analyzes states based on data relating to behaviors, community and environment, health policies and clinical care. Big Island Now.

The state Insurance Division released a health insurance rate comparison sheet Tuesday to make it easier for consumers to compare plans under President Barack Obama's Affordable Care Act. The Obamacare plans range from a monthly premium of $72.40 for a Bronze-level option (60 percent of medical expenses covered by the insurer, 40 percent out of pocket) for an individual under 21 years old to an $871.26 Platinum policy (90 percent covered, 10 percent out of pocket) for a 64-year-old. Star-Advertiser.

Unity, empowerment and self-governance were again themes of this year's State of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs address, with special attention paid to the importance of preparing a new generation of Native Hawaiian leaders. Star-Advertiser.

Holiday giving seems to be off this year, according to charities that rely on seasonal donations. It might not have to do with people being any less charitable, but rather with the fact that there are fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. In addition, donations may have been spread thin because of the Typhoon Haiyan relief effort. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for December 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Matson molasses disaster killed more than a thousand colonies of coral, Hawaii News Now has learned. The September spill's damage to the Honolulu Harbor's coral system extended beyond the waterway, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The company that agreed to buy 12 city-owned housing projects warned Tuesday that Honolulu likely will have to forfeit at least $2.5 million in damages for jeopardizing the deal's financing. The "notice of default" from Honolulu Affordable Housing Partners LLC claims the City Council's proposal to rescind the sale contract has already undermined the company's financing for the $143 million deal. Star-Advertiser.

Waimanu Street businesses preparing to be evicted for rail. Transit authority gives eviction notice: Summer 2014. KITV.

The incoming operator of the Hawai‘i Convention Center has hired a former Outrigger executive to be its new general manager. Teri Orton, former vice president of condominium resort marketing for Outrigger Enterprises Group, will be the first woman to serve as general manager since the center opened in 1998. Orton will begin Dec. 18. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Departments of Education and Health are conducting an investigation to determine what caused several Waipahu Elementary students to become ill today shortly after lunch. About 40 students were identified as being sick with symptoms that may indicate food poisoning starting at about 1:15 p.m. Hawaii News Now.

New school bus contracts are about to be signed, worth more than $100 million on Oahu over the next five years. But we wanted to know if the safety measures we were told about a few weeks ago are included and we were surprised to find out most are not. In a recent investigation, KHON2 confronted the Department of Education about school bus safety and discipline policies when things go wrong onboard.

The Honolulu Marathon is big business in Hawaii, but it owes much of its financial clout to another Pacific island chain. Japanese visitors often make up the largest share of participants in the race, and have ever since the late 1980s when the number of entrants from Japan first surpassed 50 percent. Civil Beat.

A former traffic signs supervisor with the city was indicted Tuesday on a felony theft charge. Honolulu Police say Patrick Costa stole more than $45,000 by getting paid for hours he didn't work. Hawaii News Now.

Ko‘olau Loa neighborhood board votes in favor of Envision Lā‘ie. Amid continued opposition from residents outside the Lā‘ie and Mormon communities, the board voted 6-4 to support the major development plan. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Biofuel Industry on Big Island Fails to Follow Through on Big Plans. Five years ago, state land on the Big Island experienced the biofuel equivalent of a gold rush. Today, not one biofuel company has obtained a lease of state land under the 2002 law. Civil Beat.

Volunteers wage war against invasive albizia. Tribune-Herald.

Apartment owners at the Country Club condominium are suing the Banyan Drive property’s leaseholders and management, alleging a decades-long scheme to improperly use apartment owners’ common area maintenance fees to finance the building’s hotel operation and pay its state transient accommodations taxes. Tribune-Herald.

The state wants to block the sale of the Naniloa Volcanoes Hotel to a new operator as part of a bankruptcy reorganization involving the hotel on state land in Hilo.the state Department of Land and Natural Resources objected to the sale and said it intends to appeal to U.S. District Court, claiming that assigning the land lease to the new buyer requires state consent under state law. Star-Advertiser.

The buyer of the Naniloa Volcanoes Resort said he has finished transferring money for the $5.2 million purchase to escrow. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Developers are reviving a plan for a Central Maui housing development that would include 450 multifamily units, retail and office space, and a 15-acre park. The Puunani subdivision would be built west of the Kehalani master-planned community south of Wailuku. Star-Advertiser.

Developers have revived and revised a plan for 208 acres just below Wailuku Heights that proposes about 450 multifamily units, 25,000 square feet of commercial retail and office space, and a 15-acre park. Maui News.

Some Maui County Council members were still optimistic Monday about the full council taking a vote on a deal to purchase 186 acres in Launiupoko for $13 million for a coastline parkway in West Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

It has been nearly 25 years since the county approved a Princeville Development Corporation plan to expand the Princeville Center and required that the project also include nearby employee housing. Garden Island.

Lanai

The island of Lāna’i was named to Lonely Planet’s Top US Destinations list, rounding out the top ten. Maui Now.

Molokai

Residents on Molokai may follow in the footsteps of Kauai and buy their island’s electric utility, including its power grid, which could be entirely powered by alternative energy sources. The push for energy autonomy is an outgrowth of frustration with Hawaiian Electric Co. that was repeatedly on display during protests against the Big Wind project over the last four years. It also highlights a deep independent streak on Molokai. Civil Beat.

Amid recent concerns over proposed renewable energy project Ikehu Molokai, I Aloha Molokai has cancelled its third annual Renewable Energy Festival that was scheduled for January. The nonprofit feared the event would act as a showcase for Ikehu, falsely implying IAM’s endorsement of the project. While IAM leaders say they feel the project has potential for Molokai, they are not ready to support it based on what they consider to be a lack of public input. Molokai Dispatch.


Friday, December 21, 2012

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye honored, Abercrombie budget increases state spending, Cayetano alleges corruption, Maui biodiesel to fuel Honolulu airport, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Associated Press photo through Yahoo News
U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye lies in state, AP photo
Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, Medal of Honor winner and the second-longest serving senator in U.S. history, was honored Thursday at the U.S. Capitol in a solemn ceremony usually reserved for presidents. Star-Advertiser.

The state has announced plans to accommodate the public at memorial services in Hawaii for U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye. Star-Advertiser.

‘Olelo Community Media, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor, will cablecast live the lying in state ceremony in honor of U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye at the State Capitol on Saturday, Dec. 22, from 5 p.m. through midnight. Hawaii Reporter.

Dozens of dignitaries, many sitting congressional members, will be flying in from Washington D.C. to remember their dear friend and colleague in his home state. KITV4.

While many powerful politicians paid their respects to the late Sen. Dan Inouye (D-Hawaii) at a rare ceremony in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C. Thursday, others who didn't know him well personally also showed up because they felt a connection to him and his legacy. Hawaii News Now.

Sen. Daniel Inouye, the second-longest serving senator in U.S. history, was remembered Thursday as a man who gallantly defended his country on the battlefield and gracefully sought to better it during the 50-plus years he represented his beloved state of Hawaii. Colleagues and aides lined the Capitol rotunda five deep to say farewell. Associated Press.

The retiring U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka took to the Senate floor Thursday and urged his colleagues to approve a Native Hawaiian federal recognition bill in honor of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye. Star-Advertiser.

As Washington, D.C., paid silent tribute to the late Sen. Daniel K. Inouye in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, his longtime friend Sen. Daniel Akaka asked his colleagues to complete a task the two lawmakers never could — pass the Akaka bill. Civil Beat.

It's what everyone in town is talking about: Who will be appointed to replace Daniel K. Inouye in the U.S. Senate? Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz said Thursday that he will apply for the appointment to replace U.S. Sen. Daniel Ino­uye, giving Hawaii Demo­crats a youthful option who could build seniority in the Senate over several decades. Star-Advertiser.

Two more Hawaii lawmakers plan to apply for Sen. Dan Inouye's seat in Congress. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that the spending increases he’s proposing for the next two fiscal years address fundamental necessities like early childhood education, state employee pensions and retiree health care. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie says his administration will wait until the Council on Revenues issues its quarterly forecast next month before deciding whether tax increases or any other type of revenue-boosting measures are needed to balance the two-year budget he proposed this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii would have to spend more than $500 million a year for the next 30 years to make the state's employee health and retirement funds viable again, state Finance Director Kalbert Young says. Civil Beat.

The Governor outlined his two-year executive budget proposal today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Former Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano, who is involved with two significant lawsuits in Hawaii, will headline the Smart Business Hawaii Annual Conference on Wednesday, January 9, discussing "Ending Corruption in Hawaii." Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii mental health advocates say the shooting rampage at a Connecticut elementary school underscores the need for a robust mental health safety net and for improved efforts to provide resources and support to individuals early — at the first signs of worrisome behavior. Star-Advertiser.

Randy Iwase, veteran of the state Senate and one-time gubernatorial candidate, has left politics but hasn’t strayed that far. He chairs the state Tax Review Commission, a panel assembled periodically to recommend tax-code changes to help the state cover its bills. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii introduced new Athletics Director Ben Jay to the media Thursday. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for December 21. Associated Press.

Oahu
First coined in the 1970s, the sentiment “Keep the Country Country” still runs deep. But that mantra hasn’t insulated the North Shore of Oahu from the pressures of urbanization, which are squeezing the region on numerous fronts from Haleiwa to Laie, all connected by the sole two-lane highway but lacking a comprehensive plan. Honolulu Weekly.

Five years after a car critically injured McCully resident Gwyne Isa in a Moiliili crosswalk, the city will dedicate a pedestrian-activated warning signal at the crosswalk today. Star-Advertiser.

David Becker, the former Waimanalo puppy farm manager, says he was the fall guy and maintains his innocence.  He also thanks the judge that set him free. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

With foreclosures and short sales at lower levels than this time a year ago, West Hawaii real estate agents are seeing improvements in the local market. West Hawaii Today.

A three-member panel of the National Labor Relations Board ruled last week that an election granting a union the right to organize workers at Puna Geothermal Venture was valid. Big Island Now.

The Reed’s Island bridge in Hilo will be closed for four hours Dec. 28 as crews prepare to make repairs. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

State regulators have approved a multiyear contract for Maui-based Pacific Biodiesel to supply Hawaiian Electric Co. with 250,000 gallons a year of locally produced biodiesel. Maui News.

The contract for Maui-based Pacific Biodiesel Technologies to supply biodiesel to Hawaiian Electric Company for the Honolulu International Airport Emergency Power Facility has been approved by the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission. Maui Now.

Maui tied for third with Alaska cruises in the top domestic destinations category for 2013 in the Travel Leaders Group Travel Trends Survey. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council gave final and unanimous approval Wednesday on a bill that bans fishing at Morgan’s Ponds in Lydgate Beach Park, a popular recreational spot utilized by visitors and local residents. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai's iconic Kanemitsu Bakery is back in business, ending a five-month closure stemming from state Department of Health violations. Maui News.

Monday, August 6, 2012

Artificial reefs mulled, Gabbard has big lead over Hannemann in new poll, churches continue civil union battle, foreclosure laws under the microscope, Hilo astronomers cheer Mars landing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2012 All Hawaii News
Hawaii reef scientist (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
Hawaii's natural resources chief wants to increase fishing and diving opportunities while fighting the effects of climate change. The plan? Dump tons of scrap concrete into the ocean to make artificial reefs. Civil Beat.

Tulsi Gabbard has opened up a decisive 49 percent to 29 percent lead in the bid for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District, over the more experienced Hannemann with many early votes already cast and the Aug. 11 primary just days away, according to The Civil Beat Poll.

Two Oahu churches have resumed their federal court challenge to Hawaii civil union laws, even though state lawmakers this year passed legislation exempting churches under certain conditions from renting their facilities for civil union ceremonies. Star-Advertiser.

The Legislature overhauled the state foreclosure law in 2011 and passed further changes during its latest session, but a main architect of the reform wants to revisit the legislation, specifically to address publishing requirements for foreclosure notices. Star-Advertiser.

RCO Hawaii LLLC, a law firm that successfully lobbied to loosen Hawaii's foreclosure notice publication requirements last legislative session, has ties to a mainland attorney accused of inflating the cost of foreclosure notices. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers considered but ultimately rejected a proposal to switch to an online-only system for foreclosure notices, state Rep. Bob Herkes said. Star-Advertiser.

The crew and operations of Hawaii Life Flight, which provides air ambulance services in the Islands, will be showcased in a new documentary series on The Weather Channel starting in September. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for August 6. Associated Press.

Oahu

Hawaiian Electric Co. and the Army are moving ahead with the development of a 50-megawatt biofuels power plant at Schofield Barracks. Pacific Business News.

With the primary election a week away, officials are making sure that the voting equipment is working properly. Hawaii News Now.

A Department of Health emergency response team has been assigned to assess the environmental impact of a  battery storage fire in Kahuku. The 9,000 square foot warehouse owned by First Wind burned early Wednesday morning. KITV4.

Water service investigator Scotty Sugi­yama placed a microphone on a water meter in Royal Kunia last week and heard the telltale hiss of a leaking underground pipe through his headphones as the never-ending war on broken water mains and dripping pipes continues across the island this hot summer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

As the first image from the Red Planet arrived to an ecstatic crowd of engineers in Mission Control, another crowd beneath the planetarium dome at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo gave a more muted reaction. Tribune-Herald.

A new nonprofit organization is taking on the difficult task of making Hawaii Island hearts healthier. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County now has 24 acres to turn into a district park in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council members gave final approval Friday to budget bills to make available $2.71 million to purchase 100 acres in Waikapu for a county consolidated baseyard project. Maui News.

The agribusiness sector of Alexander & Baldwin, which is mostly Hawaiian & Commercial Sugar Co. on Maui, logged an operating profit of $7 million for the second quarter, down $1.5 million from the April to June period last year. Maui News.

The severe weather is taking a toll on businesses that rely on rainfall and a Maui company is watching its profits dry up. Hawaii News Now.

A new green, sustainably designed cafeteria project will be blessed at Lahainaluna High School in West Maui today. Maui Today.

Kauai

Two days of capacity crews saw three houses in Anahola’s Pi‘ilani Mai Ke Kai subdivision emerge from the red dirt during the Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity Build-a-thon Garden Island.

Friday, August 3, 2012

Hannemann, Gabbard fight for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District, Family Forum, Catholic conference pay for lobbying violations, big earnings for HECO, new biofuel deal for Aina Koa Pono, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2012 All Hawaii News
Tulsi Gabbard, Mufi Hannemann (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
The Democratic race in the 2nd Congressional District is boiling down to whether neighbor island and rural Oahu voters prefer a seasoned politico in former Mayor Mufi Hannemann or the newer face of city Councilwoman and Iraq War veteran Tulsi Gabbard. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Family Forum and the Hawaii Catholic Conference have filed new and revised spending reports with the state Ethics Commission and will pay a total of $3,000 to the state general fund to resolve complaints about their lobbying activity. Star-Advertiser.

Monumental Dispute: Case, Lingle Tangle Over Papahanaumokuakea. Civil Beat.

Each legislative session, since 1986, PAYCHECKS HAWAII, the independent non-partisan, political action affiliate of Smart Business Hawaii (created in 1984), rates each of Hawaii’s 76 state legislators (51 House and 25 Senate). Hawaii Reporter.

Council on Revenues Retains 5.3% General Fund Forecast. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.'s earnings rose sharply in the second quarter, largely reflecting the timing of a rate increase at its main utility subsidiary that wasn't in effect for the comparable quarter a year earlier. Star-Advertiser.

A new report sheds some light on solar energy, one of the fastest growing industries in the state. Installed capacity in Hawaii rose from 25 megawatts in 2009 to more than 85 megawatts in 2011 and is forecast to reach nearly 150 megawatts by the end of this year, according to the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, a nonprofit research and educational organization that has offices in Washington D.C. and Minnesota. Pacific Business News.

A federal district court judge ordered the state to allow two women to marry their fiancés, who are incarcerated at the Saguaro Correctional Facility in Arizona, according to the ACLU of Hawaii. KITV4.


Karen Street was getting a touch of cold feet when she was first named chairwoman of the new Hawaii Public Charter School Commission, the body standing at the helm of reforms to the state’s 32 charter schools. Star-Advertiser.


Oahu

The Transportation Security Administration is paying a financial settlement to Glen Kajiyama, the former federal security director in charge of TSA operations at Honolulu International Airport who was one of 36 TSA employees fired in a baggage screening scandal last year. Hawaii News Now.


A couple of months after closing, the Haleiwa Farmers Market is getting ready to reopen Thursday at a new location, the Pikake Pavilion and nearby lawn in Waimea Valley. Star-Advertiser.

biofuel Hawaii Island
Aina Koa Pono courtesy photo
Hawaii

Hawaiian Electric Co.'s Hawaii island subsidiary has submitted a new proposal to buy locally produced liquid biofuel for electricity generation after a previous plan was rejected by regulators as being too expensive. Star-Advertiser.

Aina Koa Pono, the renewable energy company that plans to build a plant in Ka‘u, has reached a biofuel supply agreement with Hawaii Electric Light Co. and is asking the Public Utilities Commission to approve the contract. Tribune-Herald.

State regulators rejected the first biofuel contract. But Aina Koa Pono is back with a new proposal to provide 16 million gallons of biofuel a year to Hawaii Electric Light Co. on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. said Thursday that it has asked the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission to approve a new biofuel supply contract with Aina Koa Pono LLC. Pacific Business News.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has so far spent almost half a million dollars to hold onto Hawaii County’s top office, a full $135,911 more than he spent campaigning for what was then an open seat in the 2008 primary election. West Hawaii Today.

Puna voters have a history of taking out their frustrations on their County Council representatives. Tribune-Herald.

A first-of-its-kind conference drew big names and experts Thursday to the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa, where they shared views on sustainability and the power of the local economy. Speakers also stressed the importance of humility and community matters. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The master-planned Olowalu Town project gained key support from a Maui County Council committee Thursday that will allow the 600-acre development to move forward. Maui News.

Rep. Gil Keith-Agaran, who is seeking re-election to the state House District 9 seat, has out-raised and out-spent his opponent, longtime Maui County Council Member Joe Pontanilla. Maui News.

Maui County's accounting system administrator has been named deputy director of the state Department of Accounting and General Services. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney’s offender diversionary program was cleared this week of wrongdoing by special outside counsel. Garden Island.

If the Kaua‘i County Council approves a recommendation from its Public Safety Committee, it may get a bit costlier to have a home or residential alarm system, as a $150 permit and an annual renewal fee of $50 are being considered. Garden Island.

Chief Judge Randal Valenciano of the 5th Circuit Court recused himself Thursday from a condemnation case brought by the County of Kaua‘i against Hanalei boatyard owner Michael Sheehan. Garden Island.

The Kekaha lifeguard tower was moved approximately 25 feet inland Thursday morning. Garden Island.

Lanai

David Murdock has sold his Hawaiian island, but he’s keeping his seven-bedroom Lanai home, a woodworking shop containing koa furniture, two carved elephant tusks in a resort lobby, and 1,000 rare orchid plants. Associated Press.