Showing posts with label cesspools. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cesspools. Show all posts

Thursday, October 17, 2024

County mayors to discuss trust, regents grapple with UH present choice, EPA report indicates low-level contamination in Navy water system after Red Hill leak, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mayors, economists meet to talk about the economics of (dis)trust. Leading economists will provide insight into the state’s economic outlook, and explore the impact of trust in Hawaii. This Friday, Hawaiiʻs county mayors will be on Oahu for the all-day Hawaii Economic Association Conference happening at Halekulani Hotel. KHON2. HEA.

Regents meet privately with 2 finalists for University of Hawaii president.
University of Hawaii regents met privately and separately for about six hours with the two finalists to become UH’s 16th president and ended Wednesday’s regents’ meeting with no announcement, but with plans to resume their special meeting this morning. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Hawaii voters to decide on changing constitutional amendment to remove language on opposite-sex marriage. The proposed State Constitutional Amendment seeks to remove what is considered outdated language regarding marriage. KHON2.

Oahu

Navy says EPA report that found low-level contamination proves water is ‘safe’.  The Navy released Wednesday a report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that was the result of an inspection of its water system that serves more than 93,000 people on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Discrimination lawsuit against Honolulu Liquor Commission settled, plaintiffs confirm.
A 2021 federal lawsuit filed by the owners of a Chinatown nightclub and a guide to the islands catering to the LGBTQ+ community in which they alleged anti­-gay discrimination by investigators working for the Honolulu Liquor Commission has tentatively settled. Star-Advertiser.

HPD arrests 16 people trying to illegally access Haiku stairs.  Honolulu Police arrested 16 people who were trying to illegally access the Haiku stairs in Windward, Oahu, early Wednesday morning. HPD says they were arrested for second-degree trespassing. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

52 warnings given during H3 traffic enforcement. For the first time, the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) and the Marines conducted joint traffic enforcement on the H3 freeway to slow down speeding and dangerous drivers on Monday, Oct. 7. KHON2.

Police shuts down Waianae game room, uncovers 10 gambling machines and a firearm. Honolulu police shut down an illegal game room in Waianae last week with 10 gambling machines and a ghost gun inside it. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Roadside vendors bill approved by council.
Bill 184 establishes a process by which the county Public Works director can grant special activity permits to people wishing to conduct commercial activities along county roads. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County Council looks to push more units into affordable rental program. Homeowners in the program must keep the rent they charge below a certain cost, and in exchange, they get breaks on their real property taxes and a cap on how much their assessed value can increase every year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kona Rabbi’s lawsuit against county appears headed for settlement. The suit, filed on behalf Chabad Jewish Center of the Big Island and Rabbi Levi Gerlitzky, claims that fines levied by the county at Gerlitzky for using his Nani Kailua Drive home for religious gatherings are discriminatory and violate rights guaranteed by both the U.S. and state constitutions. Tribune-Herald.

County wants piece of Ka‘u parcel for sewage plant. The County Council on Wednesday discussed a resolution that would authorize county attorneys to use eminent domain proceedings to acquire 28.7 acres of a parcel just west of Na‘alehu Spur Road in Na‘alehu town that would be the site for an eventual Na‘alehu Wastewater Treatment Plant, which would replace the large-capacity cesspools in the area. Tribune-Herald.

Runway repairs scheduled at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. A temporary runway closure at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole is scheduled throughout November into December. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Maui

Maui County has 3 charter amendments on November ballot. What would they change? Maui County voters in the general election will be asked to consider three proposals that include giving the Board of Ethics full-time staffing who would be able to prosecute violations. The other proposals would make it easier for people to serve a second term on county boards and commissions as well as better define the role of the Salary Commission. Maui Now.

HECO Calls Off Warning Of Power Shutoffs On Maui. The utility created the Public Safety Power Shutoff program last May to for adverse weather conditions. Hawaiian Electric Co. notified West Maui communities Wednesday that they could face intentional extended power outages to prevent wildfires, but rescinded the warning hours later. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui residents offer feedback about future ferry service. Molokai, which previously had a private ferry service from 1987 to 2016, has been without such a system leaving residents only one option–travel by plane or not at all.  Maui News.

County approves building permits for Kahoma Village reconstruction in Lahaina. The County of Maui has approved with conditions building permits for Kahoma Village to reconstruct four multi-family buildings totaling 24 units that were destroyed in the August 2023 wildfires.  Maui News.

Upcountry Maui fire victims await change as cesspool restrictions block rebuilding
. State law requires 7,400 cesspools in upcountry Maui to be converted to septic tanks by 2050.  Hawaii News Now.

Kauai


Wilcox Medical Center nurses take their battle to the streets.
The event, which was characterized as an informational picket, came after months of contract negotiations between the Hawai‘i Nurses Association and Wilcox Medical Center management. Garden Island.

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Two finalists named in University of Hawaii system president search, Hawaii soldier charged with assault in 2021 Capitol riot, proliferation of cesspools a stinky environmental problem, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii president search narrowed to 2 finalists.  The  UH Board of Regents has narrowed the search to succeed current President David Lassner to Wendy F. Hensel, executive vice chancellor and university provost for The City University of New York and Julian Vasquez Heilig, provost and vice president of academic affairs for Western Michigan University. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Tribune-Herald.  Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Cesspools: Too Environmentally Harmful To Keep, Too Expensive To Get Rid Of.
A state mandate that all of the tens of thousands of cesspools in the islands must be converted to septic tanks — or connected to sewer systems — by 2050 is causing financial concerns for residents and logistical challenges for state and local lawmakers. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi soldier charged with assaulting police officer during Capitol riot. A U.S. Army soldier has been arrested in Hawaiʻi on charges that he repeatedly struck a police officer with a flagpole during a mob's attack on the U.S. Capitol more than three years ago, according to court records unsealed on Wednesday. Associated Press.

Hawaii loses Georgette Deemer, tireless film industry promoter, advocate. Georgette Deemer — whose 16 years as Hawaii film commissioner launched the islands’ international film and television industry­ — died Sept. 1 in Honolulu after a long battle with cancer. She was 71. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council backs HPD reimbursement plan. In spite of the city’s objections, a plan to reimburse Honolulu Police Department officers for the cost of purchasing uniforms, extra firearms and other on-the-job policing equipment was recently advanced by the City Council. Star-Advertiser.

It’s Not Just You: City Knows Its New Half-Million-Dollar Beach Shower Isn’t Working Right. The trickling water irks many at Kaimana Beach. It's the first of 11 showers across Waikiki that are being relocated to comply with stormwater rules. Civil Beat.

Local unions for hotel workers join forces amid contract negotiations. Workers from ILWU Local 142 and UNITE HERE! Local 5 held an afternoon rally Tuesday at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort as contract negotiations continued between UNITE HERE! and several hotels. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Multi-agency exercise will simulate a search and rescue mission for missing mariners off Hawai‘i Island. A multi-agency search and rescue exercise is scheduled Thursday in waters off Kawaihae Harbor with the Coast Guard, Hawai’i Fire Department, Hawai‘i Ocean Safety, and the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources. The partnering agencies will work together in a simulated exercise to rescue missing mariners. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.

Maui

3 West Maui child care programs open to address wildfire education losses. Three new classrooms have opened with support from Maui County through the West Maui Early Childhood Collective. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui residents are invited to give feedback on marine resource management.
A management proposal has been developed by a community-nominated Maui Navigation Team in partnership with the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources. Hawaii Public Radio.

Four injured when commercial catamaran runs aground on Kāʻanapali Beach. Personnel arrived to find the catamaran aground with 49 passengers and four crew members still aboard. Maui Now.

Building deterioration prompts relocation of mail services for a Maui community. Extensive deterioration of an old structure has prompted the US Postal Service to relocate mail operations for customers in Puunene, Maui. Hawaii News Now. Maui Now.

Kauai

Aerial war targets avian malaria-spreading mosquitoes. The honeycreeper, also known as akikiki, has long been under threat from avian malaria-spreading mosquitoes.  Garden Island.

Kauai norovirus outbreak survey launched to identify illness hotspots. Anyone who hiked the Kalalau Trail between between July 1 and September 4, 2024 is urged to take a survey launched Wednesday by the Department of Health and Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Kauai newspaper debuts AI-generated newscast. Kauai residents are getting up to date on their current events in a new way with one of the nation’s first fully artificial intelligence newscasts. And that’s raising some questions on the future of AI and journalism. Hawaii News Now.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Same-sex marriage protection on November ballot, $35M project could reopen Waikiki Natatorium, Bissen heads to California wildfire conference, we're still the happiest state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Voters Asked To Ensure Protection Of Same-Sex Marriage. A proposed constitutional amendment calls for repealing lawmakers' authority over gender and matrimony. Civil Beat.

$18M headed to Hawai‘i to make buildings more energy efficient, lower bills, combat climate change. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced Hawai‘i will receive $18.1 million in federal funding to adopt a building performance standard for energy efficiency in commercial buildings.  Maui Now.

Some Hawaii Nonprofits May Get Good Financial News From OHA After Delay. Trustees for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs are being asked to approve nearly $3 million in funding for nonprofits that was delayed in May amid concerns the money was not being equitably distributed. Civil Beat.

Pacific Islanders Are Often Left Out Of Medical Studies. This Team Wants To Change That. The University of Hawaii is participating in a national study of gaps in health research for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. Civil Beat.

High School Surfing Is A Thing In Hawaii, But Not As Much As You Might Think. Schools have struggled to start official teams with limited funding and no recognition from local athletic leagues. Civil Beat.

Hawaii trafficking charges part of case against arrested Philippine mega-church pastor. Philippine televangelist Apollo Quiboloy, accused of human trafficking and sex assault — including in Hawaii, was arrested this weekend in the Philippines after a two week stand-off between law enforcement and his followers. Hawaii News Now.

Study: Hawaii ranks #1 as happiest state in America
. Lucky we live in Hawaii! A new 2024 study revealed that the Aloha state has been ranked the “Happiest State in the Nation.” KHON2.

Oahu

State eyes takeover of struggling affordable condo project in Kakaako. A state agency that helped finance the project called The Block 803 Waimanu is considering foreclosure against the developer after financial difficulties stemming from 61 unsold units in the 153-unit complex despite prices as low as $276,102 for a studio.  Star-Advertiser.

City, nonprofit aims to reopen shuttered Waikiki natatorium after 40 years.
More than 40 years after a Waikiki natatorium was deemed unsafe and closed, a $35 million project aims to reopen the gates for public swimming. Hawaii News Now.

West Oahu refinery seeks to develop plant-based biofuels. PAR Hawaii Refining LLC proposes that part of its 151.4-acre facility in Kapolei produce low-carbon-­emission, plant-based biofuels, including renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel and renewable liquefied petroleum gas, among others. Star-Advertiser.

Iwilei autopsy facility re-opens after $5.9M transformation. After completing nearly $6 million in renovations, the Department of the Medical Examiner received a modern look for its Iwilei headquarters. KHON2.

City launches rock slide mitigation project to enhance safety on Pacific Heights Road.
The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Design and Construction will begin rock slide mitigation work on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024 for the lower portion of Pacific Heights Road. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Cesspool Closures In Naʻalehu Examined In Draft EA. The County of Hawaiʻi must close three large capacity cesspools that serve approximately 164 private residences in Naʻalehu. Big Island Video News. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Island Forest Reserve Fencing Projects Planned. Three draft environmental assessments have been published for fenceline and access projects in the Kaʻū and Upper Waiakea Forest Reserves, as well as the Manukā Natural Area Reserve. Big Island Video News.

NOAA ship ‘has a special mission’: Reporters get closer look at Okeanos Explorer. A vessel dedicated to exploring the unknown parts of the ocean is docked this week at the Port of Hilo for the first time as the crew and scientists prepare for the next part of their expedition. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Mayor Richard Bissen to travel out of state for wildfire summit. Mayor Bissen, along with County of Maui Managing Director Josiah Nishita and other County staff, will travel to California to attend the After the Fire USA 2024 Wildfire Leadership Summit. Maui News.

Feds Partner With Maui Groups To Develop An Energy Plan For Lahaina.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is working with three local organizations. When efforts to clean up debris from the fire that leveled much of Lahaina in August 2023 were still in the early stages, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory sent a team to Maui to better understand what happened and to eventually help create a sustainable energy plan for the rebuilding of the historic town. Civil Beat.

EPA’s Maui Wildfire Emergency Response Team awarded government service equivalent of an ‘Oscar’. Pete Guria, Steve Calanog, Tara Fitzgerald of the Environmental Protection Agency (San Francisco) directed more than 300 EPA personnel to remove tons of hazardous materials from the Maui wildfires while respecting local cultural norms and setting standards for federal response teams that followed.   Maui Now.

County declares Stage 1 water shortage for Central and South Maui. A water shortage is underway on Maui, and county officials are calling for conservation measures. The Department of Water Supply has declared a Stage 1 water shortage for the Central Maui System. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Officials highlight cesspool conversion funding for Kaua‘i homeowners already feeling the pinch.  The Kaua‘i County Residential Cesspool Conversion Grant Program will divide $2 million among 100 qualifying homeowners ($20,000 per household). Kauai Now.

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Hawaiian-Alaska Airlines merger moves forward, insurance board to meet following $60M emergency funding, Honolulu Police whistleblower files discrimination lawsuit, more news from all he Hawaiian Islands

Airlines’ merger clears major hurdle. A proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines cleared its most significant regulatory hurdle Monday after federal antitrust enforcers ended their review period without blocking the deal. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.  Associated Press.

Hawaii Democrats shower Biden with appreciation. Former Hawaii Govs. Neil Abercrombie, Ben Cayetano and John Waihee were among early Democrats who called on Biden to step aside following Biden’s disastrous debate performance against Trump on June 27, which dried up campaign donations and led to panic throughout the party. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

AANHPI Officials Say Their Voters Are The Key To Democrats Winning In 2024
. Political leaders locally and on the mainland argue that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are already a core constituency. Civil Beat.

Elite forces focus on protecting the region. The Indo-Pacific Irregular Warfare Symposium, organized by the Global SOF Foundation, brought participants from 26 countries to the Hilton Hawaiian Village’s Tapa Tower from Tuesday through Thursday.  Star-Advertiser.

Board overseeing Hawaiʻi hurricane insurance fund to meet. The Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund board will meet next week to discuss strategies for stabilizing the hurricane insurance market, following an emergency proclamation freeing up to $60 million for relief. Hawaii Public Radio.

An Overlooked Factor In Hawaii Wildfires: They’re Fed By The Houses In Their Paths. Disasters like the one in Lahaina last year are often thought of as wildfires. In fact, experts say, they are urban fires whose spread depends on the way houses and neighborhoods are built. Civil Beat.

$3.9M grant to support Native Hawaiian student health, wellbeing, more. A $3.9 million grant aimed to improve the academic success alongside the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of Native Hawaiian keiki has been awarded to a pair of University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Education professors. Big Island Now.

Oahu


BWS talks new chemicals in ʻAiea well ahead of Red Hill-related meetings. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply says it is worried about contaminants detected in an ʻAiea well that the agency shut down as a precaution immediately following the 2021 Red Hill fuel spill. Hawaii Public Radio.

Which Oahu communities lack fire hydrants and the practices in place for their protection. According to the Honolulu Board of Water Supply, several communities across Oahu either lack or are without fire hydrants.  Hawaii News Now.

HPD whistleblower alleges sexual discrimination. A Honolulu police officer filed a lawsuit against the department Friday alleging whistleblower retaliation after she reported male training academy staff who allegedly discriminated against female recruits and engaged in sexual relations with others. Star-Advertiser.

Husband in custody as search continues for missing Army wife.
The Army announced Monday that it has detained the husband of a missing pregnant Army spouse in connection with her disappearance. Star-Advertiser.

‘I felt like this was my last moment’: ‘Ewa woman after being attacked by over 15 dogs.
An ‘Ewa woman is speaking out after she said more than a dozen dogs attacked her while she was running on a trail near her home on Sunday. KHON2.

Overdoses Kill More People Than Ever. Advocates Want To Be There For Those Who Survive. Hawaii Health & Harm Reduction Center is pursuing a formal partnership with Honolulu EMS that would allow its outreach workers to reach more patients. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Proposed measure would increase cell tower construction regulations. In response to community concerns about telecommunications antennas and towers being constructed near or within their communities, Kohala Councilwoman Cindy Evans will introduce a measure today that will require more material from telecom companies in order to get their building permits approved. Tribune-Herald.

County bill would establish permit system for roadside vendors. Roadside vendors will need a permit to hawk their wares on county roads under a measure being considered by a Hawaii County Council committee today.  Tribune-Herald.

EPA Orders Closure Of Cesspool In Puna. Retreat Village at Kalani Kai, LLC, was identified as having an illegal Large Capacity Cesspool, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui farmers say fires caused financial hardship — and future remains uncertain. It's been over a year since a destructive wildfire swept through Maui and farmers are still struggling to recuperate their losses. Hawaii Public Radio.

Artificial intelligence fire sensors deployed on Maui. The County says its N5 shield program will monitor air conditions and send real-time alerts to the Maui Fire Department when it detects any changes that may indicate flames are spreading. Hawaii News Now.

Hui O Ka Wai Ola says measures taken after fire helped protect Lahaina ocean water quality.  A report summarizes changes–both improvements and declines–in water quality over eight years of data collection and confirms that measurements at sites in the Lahaina area remain within normal ranges.  Maui News.

Mokulele gets Lanai subsidies, grounds planes. Southern Airways Express LLC, doing business as Mokulele Airlines, began grounding a portion of its fleet to inspect and address findings of a routine maintenance check on Saturday — a day after the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded it roughly $4 million per year for two years in federal subsidies to provide essential air service to Lanai. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kaua‘i homeowners may receive up to $20K for cesspool conversion; grant program opens Aug. 28. The Residential Cesspool Conversion Grant Program will provide selected qualified homeowners with up to $20,000 to reimburse the cost of upgrading existing cesspools to individual wastewater systems approved by the Hawai‘i State Department of Health-Wastewater Branch. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i Fire, county officials bless new engine for Kalāheo station. The Kaua‘i Fire Department held a blessing at the Kalāheo Fire Station for a new fire truck, replacing its 16-year-old front-line emergency response engine. Kauai Now.

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Legislature advances vacation rental regulation, cesspool fees, groundbreaking held for $80M Benioff Medical Center, demolition of Haiku Stairs to begin, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Bills toward short-term rental regulation are in final stages of the legislative process. Two measures that would allow counties to begin phasing out non-conforming use permits for transient vacation rental units passed out of both of their chambers. It would give counties more control over short-term rentals. Hawaii Public Radio.

Cesspools are sending raw sewage into the ocean. Could a fee get people to convert? The state Legislature is considering a new fee on cesspools as part of a plan to end massive sewage leaks into the ground and ocean. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers aim to avert ‘early’ DHHL funding lapse. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands appears set to receive extra time to use $600 million appropriated by the Legislature in 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Ban On Biocontrols That Threaten Hawaiʻi Forage Grass Urged In Resolution. The discussion comes as the state considers all the different tools that can be deployed to reduce the invasive grasses that increase fuel loads and the risk of wildfire in Hawaiʻi. Big Island Video News.

Rising insurance rates on the horizon for Hawaii residents following Maui fires. Insurance rates have been rising for island residents, and those costs are expected to keep going up. KITV4.

Mufi Hanneman recognized at this year’s Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism Gala
. For his significant and long-term contributions to Hawaii’s tourism industry, Mufi Hannemann has been chosen to receive this year’s ‘Legacy in Tourism Award’. KHON2.

Akebono, a pioneering giant and ‘proud Hawaiian’ in sumo, dies at 54. Hawaii sports legend Akebono Taro, who made history when he became the first non-Japanese-born sumo wrestler to reach the sport’s highest title, has died. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Oahu

Mayor Officially Begins Process Of Giving Ocean Safety Its Own Department. After years of lifeguards pushing for their own department, Mayor Rick Blangiardi began the process to officially give it to them by July 2026. Civil Beat.

North Shore residents fight plans for shopping center, ask for first responder hub instead. Opponents of a planned shopping center near Sharks Cove on Oahu’s North Shore are urging the city to keep talks going with the developer. KHON2.

First school-based health center in country opens at Waipahu High
. The Academic Health Center represents a partnership between the state Department of Education and Hawaii Pacific Health, which will provide health care services to the community while offering high school students hands-on training from medical professionals. Star-Advertiser.

New mental health crisis center is already diverting patients from ERs, but has room to grow. The Behavioral Health Crisis Center is taking in patients nearly every day, but the numbers are far below capacity in the initial month of operation. Hawaii News Now.

State eyes vacant Windward Oahu campus for DOH offices, crisis center. Hawaii Pacific University’s iconic Windward Oahu campus could become a new home for the state Health Department and a mental health crisis center. Hawaii News Now.

Haiku Stairs’ demolition to begin late April, city says. The city says demolition of the more than 3,900 steps leading to the top of the Koolau Range, above Haiku Valley and the H-3 freeway, will begin at the end of April. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

City looking to hire 500 to staff Summer Fun program. The Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation is once again looking to hire hundreds of workers for its annual Summer Fun program at 60 sites across Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


Blessing marks start of Hilo Benioff Medical Center expansion project
.  The $80 million expansion project will add a new wing to the center, including a 19-bed intensive care unit, and 36 additional hospital beds. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.

Benioffs bolster fire department fleet. After nearly losing their home to a fire a few years ago, the Benioffs asked the Sayre Foundation what the couple could do to help the fire department. Since then, the couple has purchased three Big Dog fire trucks, two tanker fire trucks and eight brushfire trucks. Tribune-Herald.

‘Kauhale Initiative’ garners support from Hilo crowd.
Hilo residents were widely enthusiastic Tuesday night during a meeting about a state project to develop communities of tiny homes for the Big Island’s homeless population, despite misgivings about where those communities could be built. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Mitch Roth presents 2024-2025 budget to Hawaiʻi County Council
. The mayor’s $888 million operating budget is up 6.6% from last year. It says $30.5 million of that bump would go to salary increases for employees. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now.

Work to decommission 2 Maunakea telescopes to resume.
The University of Hawaii’s Hoku Kea Observatory and Caltech’s Submillimeter Observatory have been slated for decommissioning and removal from the mountain for years, although the process for both observatories has been slow. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Death Of Foster Child Leads To $750,000 Settlement Pending Approval By Legislature
. Fabian Garett-Garcia died on July 25, 2017, and his caregivers told authorities he was injured by accident when he fell on his face from a 3-foot-high bench while wearing virtual reality goggles at the foster home in Waimea. Civil Beat.

Maui

Aunty Carol Lee Kamekona files to run for Maui County Council in Kahului district. Carol Lee has become the first candidate to file the paperwork for the Kahului seat, according to a press release from Kamekona.  Maui News.

Judge Issues two orders against Maui County Council appointee to planning commission. Second Circuit Court Judge Kelsey Kawano issued a writ of quo warranto Monday against Danny Ray Blackburn, asking him to appear before the Second Circuit Court on April 17 to show what authority he has to participate as a Maui County Planning Commissioner, according to court documents. Maui News.

Council Budget Committee hears the pain of Lahaina wildfire survivors. Eight months to the day after a wildfire swept through Lahaina town, Maui County Council members heard the anguish of residents struggling to rebuild their lives after the disaster that claimed at least 101 lives and leveled their beloved historic town. Maui Now.

Skyrocketing Maui rent shrinks housing options for wildfire survivors. Some 1,100 households — or 2,768 individual evacuees — were still living in 11 Maui hotels as of Friday. Star-Advertiser.

A Low-Income Housing Complex Is Ready To Rebuild After Lahaina Fire. It Just Needs $36M. The developer of the 89-unit project is the first to obtain building permits in the burn zone. Now the county and state are being asked to pick up the cost of what insurance didn't cover. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Jobless rate falls to 2.5 percent in February on Kaua‘i. A robust labor market turned up the heat in February, as it added hundreds of jobs across key sectors of the island economy in the final full month of the winter tourism season. Garden Island.

Hawaiian monk seal returned to Kaua‘i waters after veterinary team removes ingested hook and fishing line. An 8-month-old Hawaiian monk seal was safely returned to Kaua‘i waters after a veterinary team at the Big Island’s marine mammal hospital removed an ingested hook and fishing line from the animal’s esophagus. Kauai Now. Garden Island.

Friday, March 15, 2024

House panel spikes publicly funded elections bill, cesspool owners could face pollution fees, mayors on Oahu and Kauai deliver 'state of' addresses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

House Panel Spikes Bill To Publicly Fund Hawaii Elections. A bill supporters believed could bring transformational change to Hawaii elections was unanimously rejected Thursday by the House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee. Civil Beat.

Why Hawaii’s Strong Sunshine Law Is Burning Some Public Officials. Government accountability advocates say that proposed changes are not needed because the nearly 50-year-old law is not that difficult to follow. Civil Beat.

Ing is given more time in campaign spending case. Former state House Rep. Kaniela Ing has until April 24 to prove that campaign spending documents he filed are accurate, allowing him to potentially avoid an additional $18,250 in fines — on top of the $22,000 in fines he’s already been assessed for the same documents. Star-Advertiser.

Counties Could Start Charging You Pollution Fees In 2025. Collected fees would go toward helping convert cesspools by Hawaii’s 2050 deadline. Cesspool owners could be charged a monthly rate equivalent to sewage rates starting in 2025, per a state bill that recently passed the halfway milestone in the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii residents oppose measure targeting cockfighting. A state proposal to impose greater criminal penalties relating to cockfighting drew outcry from residents Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmakers consider making the ‘shaka’ Hawaii’s official gesture. A pinky and thumb extended with the remaining fingers curled down: That’s the “shaka” in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Fire alarm systems still out of commission at 15 Hawaii schools
. A new inventory of fire alarms at all 258 of Hawaii’s regular public schools plus six public charter schools has found 15 schools’ fire alarm systems to be inoperable, and replacements for most will take three to 10 months, according to state Department of Education officials. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu


Honolulu mayor touts efforts on housing, public safety and homelessness. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi delivered his fourth State of the City address Thursday evening and focused on his administration’s stated priorities of housing, public safety and homelessness. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

Fentanyl overdoses are rising islandwide, but key hotspots offer insight into possible solutions. There’s an area in Downtown Honolulu where first responders are seeing the majority of Oahu’s drug overdoses. Honolulu’s fentanyl triangle is just one of at least a half dozen hotspots where a significant number of drug overdoses are occurring. Hawaii News Now.

He’s not Barack or ‘The Rock.’ He’s a Rock … but you can call him Bretman. At the State Capitol on Wednesday, lawmakers recognized an Ewa Beach native who has become one of the world’s most popular social media influencers. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island


Hawaiʻi Water Service Laterals To Be Inspected For Potential Lead.
Inspectors will soon be checking water service laterals for select Hawaiʻi island customers to comply with federal rules on lead and copper. Big Island Video News.

Maui

HI-EMA announces new housing eligibility policy for Lahaina fire-displaced residents. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) has unveiled a new policy regarding the eligibility of housing services for individuals and families who were displaced by the August 2023 Lahaina fires. Maui Now.

After the fires, a Maui community tries a novel approach to keep homes in local hands. Community land trusts have emerged in a handful of other places recovering from disasters, like Houston and the Florida Keys after both places were hit by hurricanes.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Urgent repairs called for at Māʻalaea Small Boat Harbor Ramp. The Maui County Council has unanimously adopted a resolution urging the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to repair the Māʻalaea Small Boat Harbor Ramp. Maui Now.

Lahaina Cannery to reopen on Monday. Lahaina Cannery was renovated extensively in 2023, with new decor throughout the shopping complex and an updated food court area with new seating, foliage and an entertainment stage. Star-Advertiser.

Mokulele Airlines Seeks Federal Aid To Stabilize ‘Unprofitable’ Lanai Service. The company has no plans to cancel its Lanai service, but it needs taxpayer-funded support as a work-around to raising ticket prices. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kawakami touts plans for increased disaster preparedness in State of the County speech. In his sixth State of the County address since taking office, County of Kaua‘i Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami laid out a sweeping plan for the island as he navigates a final term in office. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i Resilience Center meeting tonight
– weeks after ‘Ele‘ele fire reminded island ‘paradise is a myth’. The recent destruction of an affordable housing project on the West Side of Kaua‘i is a stark reminder that disaster can strike at any time – even in paradise. Kauai Now.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Cesspools threaten coral reef, Lahaina residents begin inspecting destroyed homesites, food security grants available for small farms, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cesspools Are Killing Hawai‘i’s Coral – But It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way.  An expert explains how to reverse the damage from the state’s 83,000 cesspools, including using treated wastewater for irrigation and landscaping. Hawaii Business magazine.

Some residents face heartbreak, closure as they return to Lahaina. It was like a funeral procession as the first Lahaina evacuees with passes to reenter the burn zone began returning Monday to their homes along Kaniau Road, known as Zone 1-C. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio. Associated Press. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Senate Committee on Water and Land supports reinstatement of Kaleo Manuel.
  More support for Commission on Water Resource Management’s former deputy chair Kaleo Manuel, this time coming from Senator Lorraine Inouye who is the Chair of the Senate’s Committee on Water and Land. KITV4.

More than $3.5M in grants to promote food security in Hawaiʻi. The grants, made possible through the Micro-Grants for Food Security Program, will provide support for small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food in communities experiencing food insecurity.  Maui Now.

KITV’s local newscasts return after several days of ‘serious technical issues’. KITV4 Island News returned today with the 6 p.m. local newscast, after being knocked off the air since Thursday. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu

Board of Water Supply eyes rate increases, military's Red Hill defueling process. 
Residential water rates follow a tier system, but the BWS reports an average family using 9,000 gallons monthly would see their bills increase from $60 to nearly $100 by July 2028. Hawaii Public Radio.

University of Hawaii launches Red Hill resource hub.
As the military prepares to begin draining the Navy’s underground Red Hill fuel storage facility next month, the University of Hawaii at Manoa has launched the Red Hill Information Hub, which it describes as a “one stop shop of the latest information, data and tools that can also be used for education, communication and research.” Star-Advertiser.

Plans For A New Honolulu Jail Hit Another Snag. The jail is supposed to be built on the site of the old animal quarantine station in Halawa, but the quarantine station probably won't relocate for another two or three years. Civil Beat.

City installs new surveillance cameras in Chinatown.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s office has announced that the first phase of the city’s new Chinatown security camera system upgrades are complete. Star-Advertiser.

In civil suit, Hawaii pediatrician accused of sexually assaulting mothers of his patients. Ten women have accused a high-profile Oahu pediatrician of sex abuse and misconduct, and five have now filed a civil suit against him. The remaining five are expected to join the claim against Dr. Gregory Yim. Hawaii News Now.


Hawaii Island

Lawsuit seeks to force Big Island to apply for pollution permit. A community group filed a lawsuit against Hawaii County on Monday saying treated wastewater from the county’s Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant is polluting Honokohau Harbor in violation of the Clean Water Act. Star-Advertiser.

Tackling Puna’s cesspools: Environmental impact statement outlines options for wastewater treatment services. A final environmental impact statement about the addition of wastewater treatment services for Puna was released Saturday by the state Office of Planning and Sustainable Development. Tribune-Herald.

Police Body Cam Video Shows Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting In HPP. 30-year old Kaena Kaohu of Kea‘au was shot and killed by police after an exchange of gunfire in Hawaiian Paradise Park on Saturday. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Maui

Maui police identify Lahaina resident, 83, as latest fire fatality. Of the 97 confirmed fatalities, 83 have been publicly identified after notification of next of kin, while six others have been identified but their families have not been located or notified. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

A Major Power Outage In Lahaina The Day Of The Fire Likely Saved Lives. High winds and the power failure caused many businesses in Lahaina to shut down the day of the fire, which reduced visitors and foot traffic on the streets of the town. Civil Beat.

Kaulana Mahina: Lottery nears for workforce apartment homes in Wailuku.
Applications will soon be available for an upcoming lottery planned for the Kaulana Mahina apartment homes in Wailuku. The development features 324 apartment homes with 195 designed as Workforce Housing, reserved for households earning more than 50% and up to 140% of the area median income. Maui Now.

UH-Maui enrollment higher than last fall. Enrollment at the University of Hawai’i Maui College is up 7.5 percent this fall over the fall 2022 semester, the college said. Maui News.

Kauai

Future of converting Kapaa housing development to affordable housing uncertain. Kaua‘i County Council members approved a resolution urging the county to acquire the Courtyards at Waipouli apartments last week, but the future of the complex as an affordable housing development remains unclear. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i firefighters extinguish 12-acre brush fire in Anahola – arson suspected.  No injuries were reported, and no structures were damaged. However, first responders advised homes along Pilipoli Road to evacuate as a precaution. Kauai Now.

Friday, July 7, 2023

New state laws address highway safety, driver's licenses, shoreline protection; Honolulu rail CEO wants tax extended, Kauai managing director moves to Schatz' office, beers created from rice, ti root, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Roadway Safety Bills Signed Into Law. Seven bills relating to roadway safety in Hawaiʻi were signed into law by Governor Josh Green on Thursday, during a ceremony on Oʻahu. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

A new law makes driver license renewal easier.
You will eventually be able to renew your driver’s license online or by mail. It was a bill that Governor Josh Green, M.D. signed into law on Thursday, July 6. KHON2.

Increased fines, drones to protect Hawaii shorelines . Governor signs measures to boost coastal management, enforcement.  Gov. Josh Green signed a handful of bills Thursday related to coastal protection. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

In fight against erosion, new legal weapon targets homeowners who go rogue. As ocean levels rise, new rules give the state more power to keep people from breaking the law to protect their properties from erosion. Hawaii News Now.

Preschool educators stipend program finally launches.  Despite a two-year wait to fully launch Hawaii’s first public stipend program for early-childhood educators, state officials are hopeful that it will make big strides toward solving a chronic and severe shortage of teachers and caregivers for keiki ages 0 to 5. Star-Advertiser.

DOE spent $168M on bell and alarm system, but more than half of schools still don’t have it. More than half of Hawaii’s 255 public schools rely on aging bell, alarm and P.A. systems due to delays in installing promised high-tech upgrades. Hawaii News Now.

Civil rights attorney to file class action against Hawaii education, health departments. A Honolulu attorney says he's a few weeks away from filing a class action lawsuit against the state over special education services. KITV4.

President’s commission meeting in Hawaii OKs broad set of recommendations. For the first time, the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders convened for its quarterly meeting outside of Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiians discuss housing challenges with U.S. HUD Secretary.  The visit served as an opportunity for HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda and HUD Regional Administrator Jason Pu to listen to the struggles, successes and valuable feedback shared by the community.  Big Island Now.

Hawaii, Honolulu score $4M for climate action plans. The funding — $1 million to Honolulu and $3 million to the state — was announced Thursday in Honolulu by Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. Star-Advertiser.

83,000 Hawaii homes dispose of sewage in cesspools. Hawaii has 83,000 cesspools — more than any other state — and about 20% are less than 0.6 mile from shore. Six years ago, Hawaii mandated the removal of all cesspools by 2050. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council trio needed to reject 64% pay raises in writing. In the days leading up to the controversial start of the salary increases for Hono­lulu’s top elected and appointed officials, Council members Augie Tulba, Andria Tupola and Radiant Cordero were each required to submit a memorandum to the city stating their rejection to the expected $44,400 pay bump — to $113,304 from $68,904. Star-Advertiser.

Businessman Accused Of Bribing Honolulu Prosecutor Points Finger At Feds. 
If convicted of bribing former prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro, the 79-year-old Dennis Mitsunaga could go to prison for the rest of his life.  Civil Beat.


Rail CEO looks to extend the system — by extending rail surcharge.
Mostly with money from the half percent general excise tax, HART has spent about $5 billion so far to get the first 11 miles up and running, construct most of the way from Pearl Harbor to Middle Street and begin utility work on the final segment to Kakaako. Hawaii News Now.

Rail Contractor Sues HART Over Construction Delays.
Contractor STG is seeking more than $99 million in damages, and says HART "has only itself to blame." The contractor hired to build the 5-mile airport segment of the Honolulu rail line is suing the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, alleging HART’s failure to address problems with the relocation of utilities along the line has caused expensive construction delays. Civil Beat.

Rail ridership falls as paid service begins.  The first day of paid rail ridership saw a drop in interest, as expected, with only 1,245 passengers boarding Skyline trains. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

State agrees to purchase and maintain Wahiawā Irrigation System, Lake Wilson.  Gov. Josh Green signed a bill Wednesday that requires his office to negotiate the purchase of Wahiawā Dam, Lake Wilson, and its associated spillways and irrigation ditches.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaiwi coast scenic area on Oahu could become state park.  Hawaii might have a new state park by this time in 2024 covering about 340 acres of mostly natural coastal land in East Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu housing market cooled off in June.  The median price for single-family home resales stabilized in June but remained above seven figures at $1,050,000. That was down 4.5% from $1.1 million a year ago and off 5.3% from $1,109,000 in May, according to data released Thursday from the Honolulu Board of Realtors.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County Council approves creation of Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity and Resilience. The Hawai‘i County Council on Wednesday approved the creation of a cabinet-level Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity and Resilience — and a new section of county code to govern it — that will lead the County’s efforts to ensure the island can withstand the effects of climate change. Big Island Now.

Council rejects plan for downtown Hilo. A proposal to create a Business Improvement District to revitalize downtown Hilo has been decisively killed after pushback from area business owners. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Wants To Use Opioid Settlement Money To Open Its First Detox Facility. Hawaii County will receive $489,000 in opioid settlement funds this year and just over $100,000 annually thereafter through 2038, Mayor Mitch Roth announced Thursday.  Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

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

Keaukaha speed limit change advances. A proposal to reduce the speed limit on Kalanianaole Street is closer to reality after passing a Hawaii County Council committee Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

For the second month in a row, visitor arrivals slowed. In May, there were 240,407 visitors to Maui, down 2.8 percent compared to May 2022 when there were 247,280 visitors, and down 4.5 percent versus May 2019 when there were 251,665 visitors, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism. Maui News.

Can’t Afford To Junk Your Car? Maui Will Tow And Recycle It For Free. Officials estimate 2,500 vehicles are abandoned each year in the county. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Kamehameha Schools acquires thousands of acres at Kaupō Ranch and Hāmākualoa, Maui. Kamehameha Schools announced today its acquisition of more than 4,500 acres of land from Kaupō Ranch Ltd. on southeastern Maui for approximately $21 million.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Matsuyama named Kauaʻi County’s managing director, replacing Dahilig who joins U.S. Sen. Schatz’ office.  Kauaʻi native Reiko Matsuyama has been appointed as the new managing director of the County of Kaua‘i by Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. Kauai Now.

And so we wait': Kauaʻi doctor underscores dialysis needs on island.  The capacity of dialysis treatment on Kauaʻi is critical, according to a local doctor. Dr. Raymond Petrillo, Kauaʻi’s sole kidney doctor, operates his private practice, Island Kidney Care, in Lihuʻe and Waimea.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Rice beer on tap on Rice Street. Rice grower Jerry Ornellas said when the first batch of Jerry’s Rice Beer — the name assigned to the rice-based beer by the Kaua‘i Beer Company — went online on Monday, it was the first time in more than 60 years that Kaua‘i-grown rice was used commercially. Garden Island.

Monday, March 6, 2023

Green promises more transparent government, state pension plan faces $13.5B shortfall, noise detector cameras proposed for Honolulu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green Says He’s Already Taking Steps To Make Hawaii Government More Open. Gov. Josh Green says he intends to use the power of his office to make state government more open to Hawaii citizens, including making changes at the state office that oversees public information if it continues to perform badly. Civil Beat.

Pension fund exec optimistic despite $13.5B shortfall. It’s been an uphill climb for the state Employees’ Retirement System pension fund, but its top administrator says beneficiaries have nothing to worry about even though the fund has a $13.5 billion shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers target personal gains from homestead sales. As the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands gears up to deliver a historic number of new homestead leases, some Hawaii lawmakers want to block existing or former lessees from acquiring more homesteads while long-unserved applicants languish on a waitlist. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers’ allowance spending reports moving online. How Hawaii lawmakers spend an annual allowance up to $15,952 for incidental work-related expenses will be easier for the general public to see. Star-Advertiser.

Shortage of truck drivers further threatens Hawaii’s supply chain. The situation was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit hiring across the economy as people lost their jobs or dropped out of the workforce and many moved away from the islands for cheaper living on the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers propose search and rescue reimbursements for illegal hikes. A proposal by Maui State Senator, Lynn DeCoite is moving in the legislature as a bill looking to fine people for their search and rescue, if they trespass illegal hikes or act dangerously on them. KHON2.

Pilot Cesspool Grant Program Announced For Hawaiʻi. Hawaiʻi has announced a pilot cesspool grant program to help qualified property owners convert their cesspools, or connect to an available sewage system. Big Island Video News. Maui News.

Statewide release of small wasp to battle damaging coffee borer beetle getting closer. The statewide release of a small wasp to battle the devastating coffee berry borer beetle — which causes millions in Hawai’i coffee crop damage — moved another step closer to taking flight.  Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Oahu

Honolulu mayor's $4.5B budget proposals include $300 homeowner tax credit.
Included in the overall package is a one-time $300 property tax credit for qualifying homeowners on Oʻahu. The city estimates it will help nearly 152,000 homeowners, amounting to about $45.5 million. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Rehab With Lucrative Pay For Top Staff Stiffed Regular Workers, Federal Probe Finds. The agreement with the Department of Labor requires Sand Island Treatment Center to pay back wages of almost $452,000 by Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Excessive-noise detection cameras proposed for Oahu. Sen. Sharon Moriwaki (D, Kakaako-McCully-Waikiki) introduced Senate Bill 588, which would appropriate funds for the Department of Transportation to develop a pilot program to use noise detection traffic cameras to address excessive traffic noise in urban areas in counties with a population of more than 500,000. Star-Advertiser.

Amid high need, affordable housing project for seniors set to open in urban core. Hale Makana O Mo’ili’ili, a five-story affordable housing complex for seniors, is set to open this month and officials hope to quickly fill all available apartments given high need. Hawaii News Now.

Why A $16M Waianae Police Station Sits Largely Empty 7 Years After It Opened. Despite opening in 2016, the Waianae station is a ghost ship, with only one officer to receive walk-ins. One or two officers sometimes come in to file paperwork, but the station’s top floor is unfinished and has no air conditioning, walls or electrical outlets. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Bill aims to give some farmers a tax break. Hawaii County might give Big Island farmers a break on their taxes under a new bill to be considered this week. Tribune-Herald.

HCCC strives for improved facility conditions. Conditions at the Hawaii Community Correctional Center have improved over the last six months, but there’s still more to be done, state officials say. Tribune-Herald.

HVNP solicits feedback for preferred use of the ‘Great Crack’.  Nearly five years after acquiring it, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will solicit public feedback this year about what it should do with the “Great Crack” in Ka‘u. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Fate of affordable project to be decided pretty soon. The need for affordable housing and a Native Hawaiian family’s claims of land ownership are coming to a head as a Maui County Council committee has until next month to decide whether to approve a 100 percent affordable rental project in Waiehu. Maui News.

Luxury yacht finally freed from Maui near-shore reef only to sink in 800 feet of water. Nearly two weeks after a 120-ton, 94-foot luxury yacht grounded in Honolua Bay on Maui, a salvage ship and a tugboat from Honolulu finally freed the vessel named Nakoa from the rocky shoreline. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

Kauai

Hāʻena's community-based fishing area avoids alterations by the state. A controversial bill to repeal a community-based subsistence fishing area on Kauaʻi quietly died Thursday, after lawmakers failed to schedule a hearing on the bill by Wednesday’s deadline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauaʻi Humane Society receives $223,000 state grant for spay and neuter initiatives. The Kauaʻi Humane Society will use $223,000 from its first Grant-in-Aid from the State of Hawaiʻi for spay and neuter initiatives to help decrease the overpopulation crisis. Kauai Now. Garden Island.