Showing posts with label bond finance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bond finance. Show all posts

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Mizuno named homeless czar, last Red Hill fuel tanker heading to Subic Bay, Senate panel grills DOE for not spending $465M, state borrows $750M in bonds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Appoints Rep. John Mizuno As Hawaii Homeless Czar. Just days after it was announced that James Koshiba, the governor’s homelessness coordinator, would be stepping down after only a year on the job, Gov. Josh Green named Rep. John Mizuno, a Democrat who has represented Kalihi in the Hawaii House of Representatives. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.  Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video NewsKITV4.

Senators Grill DOE Officials For Failure To Spend Project Money Before Deadline. Three weeks after the Hawaii Department of Education proposed to relinquish over $465 million in school facility funds, DOE officials faced tough questions from state senators at a briefing Wednesday.  Civil Beat.

State of Hawaiʻi Issues $750M in general obligation bonds. The bonds will provide critical funding for various public buildings and facilities, elementary and secondary schools, community college and university facilities, public libraries, parks and highways, among other public improvement projects, the administration said in a press release. Kauai Now.

Last tanker of Red Hill fuel departs. The last tanker participating in the defueling of the Navy’s underground Red Hill facility sailed out of Pearl Harbor on Wednesday morning.  The fuel aboard the tanker will be delivered to Subic Bay and is expected to support operations in the South China Sea.  Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

PUC asked to reconsider solar decision. T
wo solar industry groups have filed a motion requesting the state Public Utilities Commission reconsider a recent decision they say could make rooftop solar systems less attractive to homeowners and small businesses. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

16 tons of illegal fireworks seized at Honolulu Harbor. The Illegal Fireworks Task Force, operated under the state Department of Law Enforcement, seized a shipment of about 16 tons of illegal aerial fireworks in Honolulu late last week, the department announced in a news release Wednesday. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

Should Oahu Have Armed Police Officers Inside Its Schools? Honolulu is the only county in Hawaii that doesn't use school resource officers. Some leaders feel that should change. Civil Beat.

Landslide could keep Pali closed through the weekend. A landslide caused by heavy rain led to the closure of Pali Highway’s town-bound lanes Wednesday afternoon and could remain closed through the weekend, according to state officials. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

HPD investigating bizarre break-in at Oahu judge's home. Sources tell Island News this happened on Wednesday just before noon at Judge Robert Mark Browning's home in Kailua. Sources say a woman removed a window screen from an open window, reached inside the home, and dropped a civil complaint summons. KITV4.

US Army and DOT make progress toward 50-year lease for Dillingham Airfield.  The U.S. Army and State Department of Transportation announced they’re making progress on a proposed 50-year lease Wednesday. Officials say the lease would allow the North Shore airfield to remain open for commercial activities, like glider flying, sky diving, and sightseeing. Hawaii News Now.

All-way stop activated at ‘dangerous’ intersection in Makiki. A new all-way stop at the intersection of Prospect and Alapai streets and Iolani Avenue aims to reduce speeding and the number of traffic accidents in the area. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

$10 million funding approved for homeless service providers. Allocation of nearly $10 million to 16 homeless service providers covering 22 projects was approved Wednesday by the County Council.  West Hawaii Today.

Keiki urge vape bill’s passage: County Council votes 8-0 to approve the measure in first reading. A proposed Big Island ban on the sale of flavored tobacco products was widely popular Wednesday with residents and the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

UH scientists fill Maui water quality information void with free testing.
Over four months after the Maui fires contaminated water sources, the Maui Department of Water Supply gave the all-clear Friday for another cluster of Lahaina homes to consume their tap water. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hotel workers, community rally for housing solutions on Maui
. Hotel workers from ILWU Local 142 and Unite Here Local 5 are calling for short-term housing solutions to provide immediate relief to Maui residents displaced by the Lahaina fire, and for the longer-term housing solutions that the county has long needed. Star-Advertiser.

As holidays approach, Lahaina fire survivors struggle to find housing and healing. More than four months have passed since devastating fires destroyed Lahaina town. Survivors are still left searching for housing, healing and the holiday spirit. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kiwikiu found in Nakula on Maui provides hope in ongoing effort to save species.
Nearly two years after conservationists believed all seven kiwikiu birds translocated to the Nakula Natural Area Reserve on Maui had died, a single honeycreeper from the group was located and confirmed to be alive.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Council approves phone hacking device for police. During a Kaua‘i County Council meeting on Dec. 20, council members unanimously approved the acceptance of an $11,743.60 donation from Operation Underground Railroad, for a GrayKey, a phone unlocking box made by technology forensics company Grayshift. Garden Island.

County of Kaua‘i honored for work on sea level rise.
Senate President Ron Kouchi, who is home for the holidays, delivered the Senate honor on Tuesday to Planning Director Ka‘aina Hull and the Planning Department. Garden Island.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

State budget director assembling Maui fire relief fund has conflict of interest in HECO stock, Inouye portrait unveiled at Capitol, Amazon to hire 500 in Honolulu, vacation rentals down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Budget Director’s Conflict Of Interest: He Owns HECO Stock. Luis Salaveria is helping plan an innovative Maui fire victims fund that could also help reduce Hawaiian Electric's liability. Civil Beat.

A Message From Hawaii To DC: ‘We Don’t Have Enough Money’. Local business and civic leaders made the rounds of key federal agencies this week in an effort to get more money and better policy decisions for Maui fire relief. Civil Beat.

Inouye portrait unveiled. A portrait of the late US Senator Daniel K. Inouye was unveiled Wednesday at the US Capitol, becoming the first portrait of a person of color in the US Senate’s leadership portrait series.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Demand, supply and prices were down for vacation rentals last month. Vacation rentals were down across the state last month compared to a year ago. Demand was lower, so was supply, and so were prices. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii developers pay to settle Fair Housing Act violation claims
.  Hawaii-based developers Albert C. Kobayashi, Stanford Carr Development and other defendants have agreed to pay $120,000 to settle federal claims they violated the Fair Housing Act when designing and building five Hawaii apartment complexes. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Promise of rail-fueled revitalization cold comfort to Kalihi businesses struggling to stay afloat. The Honolulu Rail Authority is responding to complaints from Kalihi business owners who’ve been putting up with a utility relocation project for nearly a year. Officials say construction won’t be completed until March of 2031. Hawaii News Now.

Amazon continues Hawaii expansion with $415M investment, 500 new jobs for residents.
Amazon is revealing details of its much-anticipated expansion plans in Hawaii, saying that it plans to hire hundreds of people for a new facility in Sand Island. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Waikiki Shell slated for renovations. The iconic shell-shaped outdoor venue on the edge of Waikiki that’s played host to hula festivals, music concerts and other entertainment events for nearly 70 years is expected to undergo major improvements in the future. Star-Advertiser.

New plaque unveiled at Kapaemahu stones. The City and County of Honolulu held a blessing this week at the Healer Stones of Kapaemahu, where a new plaque was unveiled that includes a QR code to an online website with additional history and information. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Hilo wastewater plant upgrades could start next summer. The Hawaii County Council’s Finance Committee voted last week to approve a bill that would issue a general obligation bond totaling $187 million, $100 million of which would go toward the Hilo wastewater plant’s rehabilitation, although county Finance Director Deanna Sako said at the time that some of the $100 million also could be directed toward other wastewater facilities around the island. Tribune-Herald.

New $46 million housing complex helps fill ‘a tremendous and urgent need’ for Waikoloa. A new affordable rental housing complex has opened in Waikoloa Village for qualifying families and kupuna. Tribune-Herald.

Army Engineers Push Forward With WWII Bomb Survey On Big Island. The bullets and bombs were left on the range there 80 years ago, but the U.S. military is still cleaning up the mess. Civil Beat.

Leonard: KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa cancelled due to denial of road closure permits. The 28th KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa, scheduled for January in downtown Hilo, has been cancelled, according to Chris Leonard, president and general manager of New West Broadcasting Corp. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Maui fire relief program draws high interest. A special effort to deliver more financial assistance to families with dependent children on Maui who lost property or income due to the Aug. 8 wildfires is being met with exceptional demand. Star-Advertiser.

Feds Want To Plant Invasive Grasses To Control Soil After Maui Fires. USDA officials said with no vegetation left on thousands of acres, there's a need to prevent sedimentation before the wet season arrives. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Overpass For Kulanihakoi High School Slated For December 2025. An underpass construction would provide more accessibility for students, the Kihei Community Association said. Civil Beat.

Kauai


Longest predator exclusion fence in the nation completed on Kaua‘i. The 11,200-foot-long predator exclusion fence on Kauaʻi is located along the perimeter of the Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Kauai Now.


Friday, March 3, 2023

Rail drags Honolulu bond rating down, Native Hawaiians sentenced to prison in hate crime against white man, Mauna Kea Authority and DLNR spar over mountain management, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2023 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
New Mauna Kea Authority Tussles With DLNR Over Conservation Lands. A Senate bill would challenge the scope of the authority’s jurisdiction over the dormant volcano. The new authority that is due to assume oversight of Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s largest mountain, after a five-year transition period may lose a key aspect of its control over the lands. Civil Beat.

Public housing agency struggling with $800 million repair backlog as hundreds of units remain vacant. The Hawaii Public Housing Authority is trying to make a dent in a more than $800 million capital improvement backlog. And it's asking lawmakers for money this year to fix hundreds of vacant units and get more people off the streets. KITV4.

Cathy Betts to continue as director of the state's Department of Human Services. Cathy Betts was confirmed by the state Senate Wednesday to continue her role as director of the Department of Human Services. Betts was asked to continue her DHS leadership after Gov. Josh Green appointed her, as well as several other familiar government faces, in December. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Hawaiʻi State Office of Wellness and Resilience outlines its mission. The newly created Office of Wellness and Resilience and its first director, Tia Hartsock, are now in place to tackle the “unprecedented public health crisis” in Hawaiʻi. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Adult recreational cannabis bill to receive final Senate vote.
A bill that would legalize adult recreational use of cannabis in Hawaii cleared its final committee hurdle Thursday.  Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

In effort to crackdown on illegal mufflers, lawmakers considering noise detectors. There are already laws on the books saying driving with modified mufflers that cause loud noise illegal, but advocates of this bill say those laws are not being followed and the device would crackdown on rule breakers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Legislators Propose $1 Million Boost For Performing Arts.
After rebuffing two simultaneous threats to public-art funding, local artists and art supporters now have flipped the legislative momentum. Instead of potentially suffering major cuts this session, they have become positioned to receive a financial boost. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Firm downgrades city’s bonds for first time since 1999, citing growing rail debt. Moody’s Investor Service lowered the rating of Honolulu general obligation bonds from a level known as Aa1 to Aa2. While the rating agency says the city continues to enjoy a “strong financial position,” it also express concern by the increase in city debt due to the financially troubled rail project. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Proposes Cautious $3.4 Billion Budget. With island residents still reeling from double-digit real estate assessments fueled by pandemic-related price hikes, Mayor Rick Blangiardi announced Thursday that he is proposing a $3.4 billion operating budget for the City and County of Honolulu for fiscal year 2024, which is essentially flat, adjusted for inflation. Civil Beat.

OHA's Plan To Build High-Rises At Kakaako Makai Stalls In The Senate. The Senate Ways and Means Committee has shelved the Office of Hawaiian Affairsʻ proposal to build three residential towers up to 400 feet tall on oceanside land OHA owns at Kakaako makai. Civil Beat.

New Aloha Stadium May Be Smaller As Green Rejects Original Development Plan. The Hawaii governor says the estimated $400 million cost of a public-private partnership is too high. Civil Beat.

Hawaii delegation asks IRS to exempt Red Hill families. Hawaii’s congressional delegation is asking the IRS to back off of families that were affected by the Red Hill water crisis — many of them outraged that under current regulations the money they received from the military for temporary housing is considered income and that they are being slapped by the IRS with steep taxes. Star-Advertiser.

Why is $16M Waianae police station partially empty? In 2016, the City spent $16 million to build the Waianae Police Station. A blessing was held, but the doors never fully opened. West Oahu residents are concerned that the building continues to sit partially empty seven years later. KHON2.

Kamalani supporters protest school’s closure. Scores of Kamalani Academy students, teachers, parents and supporters demonstrated Thursday outside the state Department of Education, chanting, “Save our school!” to protest a decision by the state Public Charter School Commission that the Wahiawa school must close after its contract expires June 30. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Pahoa soft OKs site for library, transit hub. Pahoa residents came to an informal consensus Wednesday regarding their preferred location for a planned new library and transit hub. Both a new public library and a bus hub have been planned for Pahoa for years, with both projects eventually consolidated into a single site last year. Tribune-Herald.

Hōlualoa School Community Rallies In Kona. Parents and teachers say they are still waiting to hear specifics from the Hawaiʻi DOE on how and when it will address numerous health and safety issues at the school. Big Island Video News.

These patients could have few alternatives for life-saving care if key pharmacy closes. Kona Community Hospital’s pharmacy could be forced to close if it doesn’t meet new regulations set to go in effect later this year. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

2 Native Hawaiian Men Sentenced In Hate Crime Against White Neighbor.  A Native Hawaiian man was sentenced to more than six years in prison Thursday for the hate crime beating of a white man who tried to move into his remote, traditional fishing village. Local lawyers believe this is the first time the U.S. has prosecuted Native Hawaiians for hate crimes. Associated Press. KHON2. KITV4.

Oprah buys 870 acres of land in Kula for nearly $6.6 million over recent months. Media mogul and billionaire Oprah Winfrey recently purchased about 870 acres of Kula agricultural land for nearly $6.6 million in recent months, adding to hundreds of acres of real estate she already owns in Kula and in Hāna.  Maui Now.

Former Maui state lawmaker charged for failing to file spending report. Former Maui state lawmaker Kaniela Ing, who has run into trouble with the state Campaign Spending Commission in the past, is now facing prosecution for having “intentionally, knowingly or recklessly failed” to timely file a supplemental report with the commission last year. Maui News.

Maui Yacht Owner: ‘I Didn’t Know What I Was Getting Into’.
Jim Jones says he wants to make things right, but former employees and county officials say he shouldn’t have a boat. Civil Beat.

Mortar found at Kīhei recycling business, recovered by Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team. An unexploded ordnance, which appeared to be a mortar, was discovered by employees at a Kīhei recycling company within their metals collection area Tuesday.  Maui Now. Maui News.

Kauai

State seeks fines on Koloa dam owners
. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking a $5,000 fine from the owners of a faulty dam, which could endanger more than 600 people if it failed. Garden Island.

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Hawaii GOP commits to Trump, Big Island ethics board to investigate Mauna Kea road blockade, Ala Moana park plan moved to Kakaako, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Elephants at Honolulu Zoo ©2019 All Hawaii News
Audit raises concerns about donation record-keeping, outdated facilities at zoo. A blistering audit of the troubled Honolulu Zoo is drawing mixed reactions from elected officials. The zoo lost its accreditation in 2016 and since then it has been an uphill battle to get it back. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii GOP commits all delegates to Trump. The Hawaii Republican Party has canceled plans for its statewide presidential preference poll and committed all 19 of its national convention delegates to back the reelection of President Donald Trump, the party announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige Pleased With Hawaii’s High Credit Rating. Fitch Ratings has upgraded the state’s general obligation bond rating from AA to AA+. Civil Beat.

Paid Family Leave Likely For Nearly 20,000 Federal Workers In Hawaii. The legislation is part of bipartisan defense authorization negotiations. Civil Beat.

The New NextEra? HECO Is Fighting This Mainland Firm’s Bid For Control. Hawaiian Electric Industries faces an aggressive campaign by a $15 billion hedge fund used to getting its way. Civil Beat.

Sailor’s suicide while on armed watch preceded deadly shipyard shooting.  A week after a deadly shipyard shooting in which a sailor opened fire and then killed himself, HNN is learning of another submariner’s suicide weeks earlier that also happened while the service member was on armed sentry duty. Hawaii News Now.

Divers use WWII-era gear for interment of USS Arizona crew member. Two Army divers gave a unique World War II sendoff to USS Arizona crew member Lauren Bruner when his ashes were interred on the sunken battleship Saturday, the 78th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Proposed Ala Moana playground headed to Kakaako. A group that has been planning to build an “inclusive” public playground at Ala Moana Regional Park is bowing to public pressure and agreeing to work with the community to instead place the facility on Kakaako park lands recently obtained by the city. Star-Advertiser.

Businesses, Company Reach Settlement On Kakaako Roads. The state attorney general isn’t part of the deal, so the suit continues toward its April trial date. Civil Beat.

Cyber Attack Halts Radiation Treatment By Oahu Cancer Center. Cyber attacks like those suffered by the Cancer Center of Hawaii in November have grown in frequency against medical providers in the state and nationwide. Civil Beat.

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City unveils mobile outreach center to help move homeless off the streets. The city unveiled new tents that are part of a mobile project to help homeless individuals and families transition into shelter and permanent housing. Hawaii News Now.

Inflatable structures unveiled to handle homelessness issues. Hawaii’s newest idea to reduce homelessness by quickly inflating portable structures to triage homeless people’s issues went up to applause on the lawn next to the Honolulu Police Department Wednesday before it moves to Waipahu Culture Garden Park Friday night for no longer than 90 days. Star-Advertiser.

City shows off new equipment for homeless hub. In a few days, new, inflatable tents will go up in the Waipahu Cultural Garden to help get people off the streets and into shelters or permanent housing. KITV.

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Medical waste, including used needles, causes major traffic slow-down. Drivers heading west near the Campbell Industrial Park off-ramp ran into a major slow-down during Wednesday’s pau hana commute. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ethics Board to investigate Maunakea road blockade. Is it an ethics matter if some people break the law with apparent impunity while others get punished? West Hawaii Today.

Ethics Board: No conflict for Roth to prosecute TMT cases. Mitch Roth does not have a conflict of interest prosecuting cases from the standoff on Maunakea, but he should remove himself from any involvement in the cases to allay public concerns, the county Board of Ethics said Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Ethics Board Says No Maunakea Conflict For Prosecutor Roth. The Hawaiʻi County Board of Ethics decided Wednesday that there is no conflict of interest for Prosecuting Attorney Mitch Roth when it comes to prosecuting the arrests of those opposed to the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

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Green discusses Hawaii health care at cancer summit. Lt. Gov. Josh Green discussed health care in Hawaii during the 2019 Hawaii Comprehensive Cancer Coalition Summit on Wednesday at the Grand Naniloa Hotel in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Central Maui Landfill to Accept Residential Green Waste on Sundays. Beginning Dec. 15, the Central Maui Landfill will be open on Sundays to accept residential green waste disposal only, the county announced today. Maui Now.

Trace amounts of soil fumigants found in private Haiku water system. Health Department says water from well is still ‘safe to drink’. Maui News.

Museum expansion gets its green light. ‘Feel-good request’ comes amid lean times for nonprofit. Maui News.

Kauai

Watershed Monitoring Project gives students stewardship roles. A team of students and teachers from Waimea High School convened Friday at Kiki A Ola Bridge in Waimea Valley. Garden Island.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Baby fish eating plastic off Hawaii, $214M bond floated for Honolulu rail, half of workers say they're sexually harassed, Anheuser-Busch buys Kona Brewing Co., more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

NOAA/David Liitschwager
Scribbled filefish in sea of plastics sampled in surface slicks off Hawaii Island. NOAA/David Liitschwager
Study Confirms Plastics Are Threatening Fish Nurseries. Tiny bits of plastics are threatening fish nurseries in Hawaii, and likely around the globe. That's according to the latest study from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

Recent evidence has shown that adult fish are eating plastics in the ocean and suffering from perils such as malnutrition and toxicant buildup. Now, for the first time, a study conducted in Hawaii shows baby fish are ingesting tiny plastics, too. Star-Advertiser.

Researchers find microplastics in the stomachs of baby mahimahi, other species off Hawaii. A new study released Monday says baby fish around Hawaii are eating a large amount of plastic particles. Hawaii News Now.

Researchers find plastic in baby fish on Big Island. A troubling discovery announced on Monday, researchers found plastic in baby-fish in waters off the Big Island. KITV.

Fish in study found to be eating fibers thought to come from everyday laundry. Larval fish off the coast of Kona are eating plastics at an alarming rate, according to a study published Monday in a national scientific journal. Tribune-Herald.

Study: Plastics plague Pacific fish. A new study on the Pacific Ocean’s floating trash indicates not only a significant accumulation of microplastics in the Hawaiian Islands, but that larval fish are eating the debris. Garden Island.

NOAA fisheries report on the plastic research can be found here.

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Half of isle adults claim sexual harassment, survey finds. Nearly half of adults have experienced sexual harassment while working in Hawaii, a new statewide survey suggests. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly Half Of Hawaii Workers Say They’ve Been Sexually Harassed. People who grew up in Hawaii were much less likely to report any sexual harassment they experienced. Civil Beat.

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Meth Deaths Soar in Hawaii Even As Opioids Grab Public Attention. Meth-related overdose fatalities have significantly outpaced other drug overdose deaths in the the past five years. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council, Caldwell OK rail bond spending. Without the fanfare of past similar votes, the Honolulu City Council and Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed off on a bill clearing the way for the city to spend up to $214 million in taxpayer dollars for the over-budget $9.2 billion East Kapolei-to-Ala Moana rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Another push to impeach city Prosecutor Kaneshiro gains traction. Organizers filed more than 500 signatures collected online with docushare and in person. Hawaii News Now.

Who stole the Kealohas’ mailbox? 6 years later, prosecutors could finally find out. Katherine Kealoha’s plea deal requires that she cooperate with federal prosecutors — without limitations or restrictions. Hawaii News Now.

Queen’s Medical Center On ‘Losing End’ Of Battle With Meth. Some days, as many 40% of people admitted at the ER in Punchbowl have problems related to meth use, according to hospital officials. Civil Beat.

Republican Party of Hawaii looking forward to 2020. American Conservative Activist Scott Presler promised high energy during his speech. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Will Mayor Harry Kim run for re-election? That’s the question on a lot of people’s minds with the campaign qualifying season set to commence in less than three months. West Hawaii Today.

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Anheuser-Busch to buy out Kona Brewing parent company. Kona Brewing Co. is soon to become wholly owned by beer giant Anheuser-Busch. West Hawaii Today.

Anheuser-Busch to acquire all of Kona Brewing Co. Kona Brewing Co. is slated to become wholly owned by beer company behemoth Anheuser-Busch under a deal announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Anheuser-Busch to Take Full Ownership of Kona Brew. Anheuser-Busch currently owns 31% of Kona Brewing Company. Big Island Now.

Anheuser-Busch to buy out owner of Kona Brewing Company. Anheuser-Busch, the folks who produce big brands like Budweiser and Stella Artois, announced Monday that they plan to buy out Craft Brew Alliance, the Portland-based craft brewing company that owns Kona Brewing as well as a number of other small brands. Hawaii News Now.

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Man arrested following fatal head-on crash had prior DUI conviction. A 25-year-old Waimea man Sunday arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide and DUI following a two-car crash near Ke Kahakai State Park that killed a 35-year-old mother and hospitalized three girls has a prior conviction for drunken driving. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Supreme Court Recordings Reveal Justices Struggling To Find Answer in Maui Case. During an hour-long hearing on the Maui Clean Water Act case, the U.S. Supreme Court justices seemed to be seeking a legal path to keep polluters from skirting the law without ensnaring ordinary homeowners. Hawaii Public Radio.

Farmers convention growing the good stuff. Knowledge-sharing draws hundreds to Puunene event. Maui News.

Kula Community Association Meeting This Wednesday. The Kula Community Association is inviting all Maui residents to its community meeting this Wednesday. Maui Now.

Kauai

Surfrider releases latest water test results. These are the latest results for this month’s Surfrider Foundation Blue Water Task Force sampling of our Kauai waters for Enterococcus, a fecal indicating bacteria, on Nov. 9. Garden Island.

East Kauai Irrigation System to revert to DLNR. In 2001, the East Kauai Water Users Cooperative was formed to take over management of the state-owned irrigation system in our area previously operated by Lihue Plantation. Garden Island.

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

It's Election Day! No vote, no grumble. Here's what candidates and committees have been up to going down the home stretch, plus everything you need to know about voting in all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz at Democratic Party rally in Hilo ©2018 All Hawaii News
Lack of hot races suggests turnout might lag. This is one of the most exciting and suspenseful midterm elections in years on the mainland, but a lack of hotly contested local races suggests voter turnout could remain low in Hawaii today. Star-Advertiser.

Early Voting Is Way Up Nationwide, But Not In Hawaii. There’s a lot of drama on the mainland with control of Congress up for grabs. Hawaii’s races hold less suspense. Civil Beat.

Hawaii General Election: 180K Votes Already Cast. Hawaii Public Radio.

Despite easier registration rules, early voting figures remain low. Hawaii’s voter turnout is the lowest in the nation. Hawaii News Now.

Democrats from across the state gathered at Mooheau bandstand Monday evening for their traditional pre-election Grand Rally, where several hundred of the party faithful ate chili, enjoyed entertainment and heard speeches from federal, state and local candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s GOP focusing on conservative-leaning districts in battle against blue wave. There are only five elected Republicans in the state. Hawaii News Now.

Advocates rally to push Native Hawaiian voters to the polls. ‘They say Hawaiians don’t vote. We want to prove them wrong.’ Hawaii News Now.

Candidates for Hawaii’s top elected office are focusing on a persistent problem that has only gotten worse: the high cost of housing on the islands. Associated Press.

A coalition of powerful unions, business interests, environmentalists and others has raised $740,000 in its effort to defeat this year’s ballot measure asking voters whether they want to convene a state constitutional convention, according to the latest campaign spending reports filed Monday. Star-Advertiser.

High-Profile PR Firm Is Getting Involved In Hawaii Politics. A company that made a big splash by hiring away public officials has aided the campaigns of the teachers union, an OHA candidate and a Maui super PAC. Civil Beat.

Here’s what you need to know for Tuesday’s Midterm Election. Hawaii Public Radio.

Are you a first-time voter? Here’s all you need to know for Election Day. Polls open statewide Tuesday at 7 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. Hawaii News Now.

Reminders, tips to know before you vote in Tuesday's general election. KHON2.

Election Day Hawaii Information. If you're headed to the polls here are some things you need to know. KITV.

Ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft both said they will offer discounted rides to the polls in Hawaii on Election Day. Star-Advertiser.

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Some Progress Made on Strike Negotiations. Leaders of the hotel workers union Unite Here! Local 5 met with management of five hotels owned by Kyo-Ya over the weekend to try and bring an end to a four week worker strike. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matson’s earnings surge on tax cuts. Matson Inc. operated on a fairly even keel in the third quarter balancing higher revenue and expenses, but the Honolulu company benefited from lower taxes to boost its profit 22 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Short-term bonds to help fund rail. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday that his administration will use proceeds from the sale of short-term commercial paper to supply the city’s beleaguered $8 billion-plus rail project with $44 million to show “skin in the game” being required by federal transit officials and the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu To Take Out Short-Term Loan Of $44 Million To Keep Rail Going. This marks the first time that city property tax revenue will be used for the project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Caldwell reveals preferred funding mechanism to secure $44M for Honolulu's rail project. Pacific Business News.

Here’s how the city plans to pay $44M for the rail project. ‘We’re probably taking the safest route, the least painful route.’ Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu unveils latest rail plans. Beginning in January, homeowners on O'ahu will start paying for rail through property taxes. KITV.

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Council committee hobbles sidewalk-clearing bills. Honolulu City Council members are doubling down on their insistence that Mayor Kirk Caldwell submit more detailed reports on how he’s tackling homelessness before they’ll allow him to implement two new sidewalk-clearance laws. Star-Advertiser.

Victim Advocates Withdraw From Partnership with Honolulu Police. The Domestic Violence Action Center will return $400,000 in grants because HPD didn’t use its services when responding to domestic violence calls. Civil Beat.

There's a big increase in crime due to 15 cents bag fee on Oahu, says Retail Merchants of Hawaii. KHON2.

Honolulu will be under increasing risk of flooding and other damaging storm impacts as climate change shifts the historical pattern of hurricane tracks and raises the ocean level to make the islands more vulnerable, according to a study led by researchers at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

Sales dip, but Oahu home prices rise 4%, Locations report says. Home prices on Oahu rose by 4 percent over the 12-month period that ended Oct. 31, while sales of single-family homes declined by 3 percent, and condominium sales declined by 1 percent, according to a report by Honolulu real estate firm Locations. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Thurston Lava Tube likely to remain closed until 2019. While much of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has reopened since its historic closure earlier this year, some parts likely will remain closed until at least next year. Tribune-Herald.

Improvements planned for rodeo arena in Honokaa. Honokaa Rodeo Arena will close from Nov. 14-Jan. 14 so improvements to the facility can be made. Tribune-Herald.

Humpbacks arrive fashionably early off Kohala Coast. West Hawaii Today.

The median price of a condominium on Hawaii’s Big Island rose by more than 26 percent last month despite fewer sales, compared to a year ago, while both sales and prices declined for single-family homes, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Polls will open starting at 7 a.m. Tuesday as voters statewide cast their final ballots for county, state and congressional races. Maui News.

Spending report: Victorino paid D.C.-based media consultant $50K. Cochran’s largest expenditure was just under $3,000 during same period in Maui County mayoral race. Maui News.

Commentary: Win for public’s right to know. The Maui News won an important court battle Thursday when the three psychiatrist/psychologist reports were released by 2nd Circuit Judge Peter Cahill in the Ashley Wellman case. Maui News.

Maui visitor numbers slowed but still up in wake of Olivia. Vistor spending in September also up but only 2nd time this year with less than $400 million. Maui News.

The Kula Forest Reserve, Waipoli access road, Kahikinui Forest Reserve – Papaanui Tract, and Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area reopened on Friday following completion of a two-month project for road repairs, road safety improvements, and fuel mitigation work. Maui Now.

Kauai


An islandwide power outage that struck early Monday afternoon affected all 25,800 Kauai Island Utility Cooperative members. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative said it has been able to restore power to all of its 25,800 members on the Garden Isle after a trip at its Kapaia Power Station caused an islandwide power outage. Pacific Business News.

Crews from the Department of Public Works finished laying a new sewer pipe at Kuhio Highway and Leho Drive Sunday night and began demobilizing as they wrapped up a days-long effort to repair and clean up a sewage spill and get traffic back to normal. Garden Island.

Single-family home prices on Kauai rise as sales drop. The median price of a single-family home on Kauai rose 6 percent last month, compared to a year ago, as the median price of a condominium dropped 13 percent and sales for both categories dropped, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News

Thursday, June 8, 2017

Rail bonds approved, Honolulu council hikes bus, parking, weight fees, Big Island gas tax hike advances, interim schools superintendent named, Maui mulls sand mining moratorium, Kauai studies landfill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation
Rail construction, courtesy Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation
Construction of Honolulu’s beleaguered rail project likely will proceed past January, now that it’s squeaked out a sixth, pivotal City Council vote required to float bonds and help keep the work on track. The Council’s 6-3 decision on Wednesday, which hinged on Councilman Trevor Ozawa’s swing vote, authorizes up to $350 million in city general obligation bonds for rail. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council approved a measure Wednesday to ensure construction of the rail project can continue through June 2018 by issuing up to $350 million in bonds, although there is still no long-term revenue source to finish the $10 billion, 20-mile line. Civil Beat.

The city's controversial rail project survived a crucial vote Wednesday at Honolulu Hale -- one that could have shut down all construction and operations within a couple months. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu's financially troubled rail transit project will be able to issue bonds to keep it afloat through the end of the year. KITV.

The city council voted on a number of measures Wednesday night that could bring in much needed funding to the Honolulu rail project. KHON2.

Hawaii’s newly appointed schools superintendent says she has her sights set on raising student achievement in the islands above the rest of the country’s public schools. Star-Advertiser.

The future superintendent of Hawaii schools — and the high school principal who will serve as interim schools chief for a month until she starts her job Aug. 1 — spoke briefly to the media Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Keith Hayashi, Waipahu High School’s principal who has been serving as interim deputy superintendent since March, has been tapped to lead the public school system as interim superintendent until Aug. 1, the Department of Education announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A new report from Pew Research Center shows that Hawaii had the most multiracial and multiethnic births in the nation at 44 percent in 2015. Civil Beat.

Only four restaurants from the entire state of Hawaii were recognized on OpenTable's 100 Best Al Fresco Dining Restaurants in America, a list of the best outdoor dining restaurants in the country. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Motor vehicle weight taxes, bus fares and parking rates will go up under a 2018 budget package approved by the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.


Honolulu residents will have to pay more to drive and park as the result of City Council action Wednesday to balance the 2018 fiscal year budget. Civil Beat.

In Wednesday's Honolulu City Council meeting, the council approved a bill for a one-time increase on city bus fares. KITV.

The City Council voted Wednesday to override Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s veto on a bill that would block the transfer of Thomas Square to the Department of Enterprise Services from the Department of Parks and Recreation, citing concerns that the move could commercialize much-needed green space. Star-Advertiser.

The City Council advanced a measure Wednesday that would allow a Waikiki nonprofit group to set transportation policies, handle curb and parking enforcement, and build parking garages and other transportation-related structures in the state’s No. 1 tourist destination. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council chose not to pass a bill Wednesday to close a loophole in the city’s plastic bag ban. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council has decided it needs more time to decide whether to strengthen Oahu’s plastic bag ban. KHON2.

A controversial measure to ban all plastic shopping bags has been shelved by the Honolulu City Council. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council has again deferred action on a bill that would require retailers to charge a fee for checkout bags and ban so-called compostable plastic bags. Star-Advertiser.

Libraries are popping up across the country, but they’re not lending books. They’re lending tools. The HNL Tool Library is part of a nationwide movement prioritizing access to tools over ownership. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

A gas tax hike is probably coming to a pump near you, but there will be less of an immediate sticker shock following the County Council’s 8-1 vote Wednesday to spread Mayor Harry Kim’s requested increase more evenly throughout the next three years. West Hawaii Today.

The Hilo landfill isn’t closed yet, but Hawaii County already was approached about using it for a solar farm once it’s capped, officials told the County Council on Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council members on Wednesday rejected for a second and final time a controversial resolution claiming historical discrimination against low-income and Native Hawaiian residents of Puna and Ka‘u. Tribune-Herald.

Millions of dollars will be spent upgrading Hilo International Airport throughout the next two years. Tribune-Herald.

As Hawaii’s congressional delegation rallies around Kona coffee farmer and undocumented immigrant Andres Magana Ortiz as he faces deportation to Mexico, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard took the effort a step further on Wednesday, taking the cause to the floor of the House and urging Congress to pass a ‘private bill’ she introduced this week to help Magana Ortiz. Big Island Video News.

The Waimea family and community man facing deportation was given 45 days to take care of his affairs before he has to leave Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council is taking steps on a sand mining moratorium. KHON2.

Department of Liquor Control Director Glenn Mukai said Wednesday that the department isn’t changing any of its rules for nonprofit liquor licenses — it’s just complying with state laws that have been in place since 2008. Maui News.

Members of the Maui Police Department Traffic Section along with assistance from patrol officers conducted a two week operation from May 22 to June 4, 2017 targeting seatbelt, child restraint and pick-up truck restriction violations. Maui Now.

For weeks, Minerva Martinez dreaded Wednesday, a day of reckoning for the 47-year-old Mexican immigrant who was ordered to report for possible deportation. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Consulting group presents findings on makeup of Kekaha Landfill. Garden Island.

Sen. Brian Schatz has a list of items he wants to help fund on the Garden Isle. Garden Island.

Two important ocean safety communication pieces are available to businesses on Kauai. Garden Island.

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Aquarium fish trade up for debate, police body cam bills die, Senate withholding public testimony, Oahu property taxes could spike to pay for rail, Ige meeting with bond rating agencies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Lowfin chub and parrotfish © 2017 All Hawaii News
 During the next two weeks, Hawaii lawmakers will be negotiating the final details of a bill to limit fishing for the commercial aquarium trade — potentially capping a decades-old battle that has pitted fish collectors against conservationists and tour operators. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Department of the Attorney General says the state Senate improperly denied a person’s constitutional protected right to submit testimony for legislative hearings. An attorney general opinion says legislators cannot censor public testimony about proposed bills. But they did just that. Civil Beat.

Legislative measures to increase accountability and transparency at the Hawaii Tourism Authority are dead this session, but lawmakers have attempted an end run by asking the state auditor to deliver the agency’s 2018 management audit by the start of next session. Star-Advertiser.

There won’t be a law this year requiring Hawaii’s police departments to purchase and use vehicle and body-worn video cameras. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige and other state government officials began two days of meetings Monday in San Francisco with the three major credit agencies in a bid to obtain favorable bond ratings that will allow the state to borrow money at reduced interest rates. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard’s stance on Syria puts her back in the hot seat. Star-Advertiser.

Ten “town hall” events are scheduled to take place in Hawaii in the next two weeks, including seven scheduled by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, two by U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and one conducted by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines’ stock soared more than 5 percent Monday after the company raised its revenue expectations for the first quarter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu property taxes would need to jump 8 to 14 percent for the city to pay the remaining tab on an East Kapolei-to-Ala Moana rail line if state lawmakers don’t agree to a 10-year extension on the general excise tax surcharge, city officials told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

The Division of State Parks has launched a high-tech campaign to prevent homeless campers from returning to the Diamond Head State Monument. Civil Beat.

A company that was declared in default and removed more than a year ago from a state project to build a new hangar at Hono­lulu Airport now says it was wrongfully terminated from the job by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Hikers near the Kuliouou Ridge Trail are beginning to make some resident's homes their homes. Residents say they've been dealing with trash and even people trekking through front yards to borrow garden hoses. KITV.

One of two managers who was scheduled to go to trial next month on felony charges related to a fatal fireworks explosion in a former Navy munitions bunker in Waikele has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge in U.S. District Court. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council members were briefed last week on plans to ease parking and delivery congestion in Waikiki. Hawaii Public Radio.

Transforming an empty Waikiki retail building that was once anchored by a NikeTown store into a seven-story hotel is projected to begin in 2018 and be complete in mid-2020. Star-Advertiser.

Michaels Development Co., one of the largest private sector affordable housing owners and developers in the United States, recently revealed details regarding its long-planned affordable housing project in Kapolei, including that the development could start construction by the end of this year. Pacific Business News.

Great Harvest Bread Co., a bakery and lunch restaurant in Downtown Honolulu, has closed for good. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The state Land Board this week will consider approving a drone survey of forests affected by rapid ohia death and review proposed regulations that include restricting access to state forest reserves during emergencies. Tribune-Herald.

Alii bridge and culvert to be replaced at Kahului Bay. West Hawaii Today.

A $94,500 stewardship agreement for the county-acquired property by the Waipi’o Valley Lookout, Koaʻekea, will continue. Big Island Video News.

Debate rages in Waikoloa Village over homeowner subsidization of golf course. West Hawaii Today.

The agency charged with running Hawaii's small boat harbors blatantly mistreats and retaliates against residents who use the facilities, according to Hawaii County's prosecuting attorney. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Members of a group opposed to new laws allowing the retail sale of alcohol 24/7 are expected to appear at the Maui County Liquor Control Commission meeting at 9 a.m. Wednesday in the Trask Building in Wailuku. Maui News.

The closing of Hawaii’s last sugar mill on Maui was the end of an era. But there’s a new cadre of innovative food startups and entrepreneurs hoping to write a new chapter for the Valley Isle’s agricultural story. Star-Advertiser.

Maui’s Kepaniwai Park at ʻĪao reopened today to increased visitor and residential traffic, after seven month closure. Maui Now.

County reopens Kepaniwai Park. Maui News.

Researchers are calling it an epidemic: a big spike in the number of people infected with rat lungworm disease in Hawaii. KHON2.

California couple contract rat lungworm disease during Maui honeymoon. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

A local cattle company that operates with 1,500 mama cows on the island recently received a six-figure investment from a Hawaii-based venture capital fund. Garden Island.

If all goes as planned, Lehua Island, a 284-acre state-designated seabird sanctuary less than a mile north of Niihau, will be rat-free in the near future. Civil Beat.

The concepts for five interpretive signs explaining the history and landscape of the Puna District will be unveiled at this year’s Earth Day celebration at Lydgate Beach Park. Garden Island.

AutoZone is opening its first store on the island of Kauai in the 8,575-square-foot former Blockbuster Video space at the Foodland-anchored Waipouli Town Center in Kapaa, the brokerage firm handling leasing for the center said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Monday, April 4, 2016

GMO hearings planned for June, rail officials want Ala Moana station, bond sale saves state $32.8M, judges shun Kenoi case, OHA's Lindesey suffers stroke, PR for Honolulu police, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Store display in Hilo © 2016 All Hawaii News
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals may hold hearings in June on three cases related to genetically modified farming in Kauai, Maui and Hawaii counties. The appeals court hasn’t officially scheduled the hearings yet, but it notified parties recently that they may be held June 13-17 in Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige’s plans to address Hawaii’s homelessness crisis and affordable-housing shortage are competing for funding with other priorities in the Legislature, and some advocates are concerned that lawmakers are not setting aside enough money to solve those pressing problems. Associated Press.

The state refinanced $345 million in general obligation bonds Thursday in a move that will save the state $32.8 million during the next eight years, according to an announcement from Gov. David Ige. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to allow the cultivation and distribution of industrial hemp for research was approved by the House Finance Committee on Friday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii spends roughly $17 million a year on the salaries of state employees whose main mission is to keep the islands safe from natural- and human-caused disasters. Civil Beat.

State utility regulators are weighing a switch to smart meters for thousands of Hawaiian Electric Co. customers. Associated Press.

Embattled telecommunications company Sandwich Isles Communications has asked the Hawaiian Homes Commission to certify it as an eligible telecommunications carrier so that it can potentially resume receiving millions of dollars in federal ratepayer funds to subsidize its phone and Internet service on Hawaiian homelands. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Chairperson, Robert K. Lindsey Jr., suffered a stroke a few weeks ago, and the agency says he is now in the process of recuperating. Big Island Video News.

The University of Hawaii will be presenting its proposed tuition schedule for fall 2017 through spring 2020 to the community at public meetings statewide from Monday, March 28 to Thursday, May 5. KHON2.

Oahu

City rail officials appear to be massaging their construction schedule to preclude the Legislature, City Council and public from any temptation to stop the financially troubled $6.57 billion project at Middle Street instead of running to Ala Moana Center. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department will pay a public relations firm about $125,000 over a year to train its two police public relations professionals as well as leaders and officers. Associated Press.

When they were announced last year, accessory dwelling units were touted as a potential quick fix to help alleviate O‘ahu’s housing shortage. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

It appears no Big Island judge will hear the pending theft trial of Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi. Tribune-Herald.

The state indictment charging Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi with theft and lying about purchases he made with his county-issued credit card does not include any of the more egregious allegations, including that he used the card to pay Honolulu hostess bar tabs, to buy a surfboard and bicycle or to pay his state lawyer association dues, according to an analysis of the credit card statements. Star-Advertiser.

Retired Hawaii Island Circuit Court Judge Riki May Amano has been chosen as the hearings officer to conduct a new contested case hearing regarding the proposed Thirty Meter Telescope project atop Mauna Kea, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced Friday. Civil Beat.

A retired Hawaii state judge will serve as a hearing officer for a contested case hearing redo for the Thirty Meter Telescope land permit, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources said. Pacific Business News.

A bill to privatize Honokohau Harbor after years of disrepair is gaining steam at the Capitol. And the state agency which now oversees the facility is backing what could become a model for privatization of small boat harbors across Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

A group of Papaikou mill beach users and their supporters stood along Highway 19 on Friday to again urge Hawaii County officials to make the only trail to the small black sand beach a public path.Tribune-Herald.

A Life Flight helicopter which has been allowed to permanently park on Hilo Medical Center’s helipad will soon be getting the boot. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Special Committee on County Governance voted 6-5 on Thursday afternoon to pursue some form of county manager government. Maui News.

Hawaiian Electric Cos., including subsidiary Maui Electric Co., is seeking to embark on a $340 million project to install smart grid technology which will allow customers to monitor their electricity use by computers or mobile devices and the utility to improve grid operations and integration of renewable energy. Maui News.

Kauai

Creating transportation alternatives that would decrease Kauai’s traffic congestion and carbon footprint is a long road. Garden Island.

State health officials are blaming the fecal waste of feral pigs, sheep, rats, birds and possibly a dozen land tortoises for polluting a stream that people frequent on the south shore of Kauai. Civil Beat.

In its continuing effort to maximizing efficiency, the Kauai Transportation Agency next month plans to implement new bus routes, resulting in savings of up to $120,000, according to the county. Garden Island.

Lanai

Technical difficulties in maintaining clear videoconference or phone communications with Lanai testifiers pulled the plug on the Maui County Council's attempt to pass the Lanai Community Plan update on first reading Friday. Maui News.