Showing posts with label coral reefs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label coral reefs. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Taiwan president to visit Hawaii, Meadow Gold to lay off almost 200 workers, Maui sets disposal site for wildfire waste, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Taiwan president plans Hawaii visit on sensitive trip to Pacific. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te is planning to stop in Hawaii and maybe Guam on a visit to Taipei’s diplomatic allies in the Pacific in the coming weeks, sources told Reuters, a sensitive trip coming shortly after the U.S. election. Reuters.

Meadow Gold to lay off nearly 200 people. According to the filing, 49 people on Oahu, 24 in Hilo, 19 in Kahului and seven on Kauai are losing their jobs. KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric removes ‘going concern’ warning in latest earnings report. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. on Friday removed a warning about its ability to remain in business, saying that a recent capital raise helped mitigate the concerns and that it’s reviewing strategic options for its clean energy subsidiary. Star-Advertiser.

Artist brings community into large ocean-inspired glass mural to surround the Capitol. The State Foundation on Culture and the Arts contracted Solomon Enos to design a mural that represents the ocean around the Capitol building. The $11 million large-scale art project involves fabricated glass that will cover more than 54,000 square feet of the pools. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu


Honolulu Condos: City Might Water Down Fire Safety Law Again. Seven years after the fatal Marco Polo fire, Honolulu might extend a key deadline for condo associations after failing to pass a sprinkler law. Civil Beat.

911 Outage Complicated By Failure Of Backup System, Honolulu Police Say. Police described a cascade of problems that led to a delay in informing the public about the outage. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Avian flu outbreak occurs at Wahiawa sanctuary. The outbreak occurred at Susie’s Duck Sanctuary, a nonprofit started two years ago by Susan Wilkinson to rescue abandoned ducks and geese in the state. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island


Inaba, Onishi tapped to lead council. Kona-Kohala Councilman Holeka Goro Inaba (District 8) will serve as chairman, and incoming Hilo Councilman Dennis “Fresh” Onishi (District 3) will serve as vice chairman. Tribune-Herald.

Community expresses ideas about fixing Kona’s downtown parking problems. About 250 people gave up their Friday night to attend a public meeting at the West Hawaiʻi Civic Center to discuss the high cost of parking and batter around a bunch of ideas, included providing a shuttle parking service for employees in the village and creating an annual parking pass. Big Island Now.

Large West Hawaii  coral recovery project complete. A team of divers from several agencies — including the DLNR’s Division of Aquatic Resources, The Nature Conservancy and Arizona State University — worked for three days to remove hundreds of coral heads from a decommissioned offshore fish farm pipe ring. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council committee looks at tobacco bill.
A new bill going through the Maui County Council may one day prohibit the sale, distribution and marketing of flavored cigarettes.  Maui News.

Maui County could ask Legislature to allow all birthing practices. The county resolution follows a 2019 state law that established a licensing structure for midwives. But it’s been controversial because it limits traditional birthing methods. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui County finds long-term disposal site for wildfire debris. An agreement with construction company Nan, Inc. was reached to purchase 49 acres of previously quarried land, plus 30 acres of land currently being used as a quarry. This is located near the Central Maui Landfill. KITV4.

Community input sought on proposed County acquisition of Von Tempsky property.
Residents are invited to provide feedback on the County of Maui’s proposed acquisition of the approximately 273-acre Von Tempsky property, formerly known as Kula Ridge Mauka in Kula. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s ‘Rosie the Riveter’ dies on Maui at age 98. Lucille “Cille” MacDonald, a Maui resident who was recognized by Congress for her work building ships during World War II and escaped the 2023 Lahaina fire, died Friday just weeks short of what would have been her 99th birthday. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kauai Police Chief’s Retirement Plans Won’t End Disciplinary Proceedings. Todd Raybuck has had a troubled tenure, including allegations of discrimination and leaving his loaded gun in a bathroom at the police station. Civil Beat.

Meeting about Wailua Bay shoreline mitigation set for Thursday. For the past four months the Surfrider Foundation Kauaʻi Chapter has been opposing the implementation of “sand savers,” the last of three parts of the Kūhiō Highway Emergency Shoreline Mitigation Project for Wailua Bay. Kauai Now.

State investigation continues into uncovered human burials at Wainiha property.
The order to stop all work followed the arrest of three people that were part of a group that had occupied the property for days in protest. At least eight burials have been found at the property between June and September, according to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Kauai Now.

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Honolulu considers shipping garbage off-island, comments sought on federal plan to protect coral reefs, charges dropped against state legislator, others in Kapiolani hospital strike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Revives The Idea Of Shipping Trash Off Island. Honolulu’s trash could be shipped off island for 10 years until a new landfill is opened, a potential interim solution to the challenge of what to do with the waste generated by almost 1 million residents and about half a million monthly visitors. Civil Beat.

Public invited to comment on federal plan to preserve coral. The National Coral Reef Resilience Strategy will be used to protect reefs around Hawaiʻi, Florida, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, the U.S. Pacific Remote Island Area and other areas. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Green's Climate Advisory Team talks priorities to mitigate disaster losses. Gov. Josh Green established a Climate Advisory Team this past May to promote resilience and recovery from future climate-related disasters. The volunteer team is looking at areas ripe for policy-making: environmental and infrastructure resilience, and physical and financial recovery. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voting explainer: 2024 constitutional amendment ballot questions. Hawaiʻi voters will have the chance to weigh in on two constitutional amendment questions in the November election. The questions are related to marriage equality and judicial appointments. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ballot question revives debate over same-sex marriage in Hawaii. Many voters are expressing confusion over a constitutional question on ballots that arrived at homes over the weekend. It brings up the 30-year-old debate over same-sex marriage in Hawaii that most people feel was settled a decade ago. Hawaii News Now.

OHA race: Luapa faces political newcomer for Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi seat. Luana Alapa, who has served on the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees since 2020, faces challenger Kunani Nihipali, a farmer and former Honolulu police officer. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i unemployment rate remains at 2.9% in September. The Hawai‘i Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism reports 651,100 people were employed last month, with 19,300 were unemployed, for a total seasonally adjusted labor force of 670,400 statewide. Kauai Now.

Oahu

Council urges state action on rising property insurance premiums.
A Honolulu City Council resolution wants state lawmakers to address what it deems are “drastic” increases in property insurance premiums paid by homeowners across Oahu, particularly for those who own condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

Charges dismissed against 10 arrested during Kapi‘olani hospital protest. All charges have been dismissed against the 10 protesters arrested outside Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children during a management lockout of unionized nurses last month, Honolulu prosecutors said. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  Spectrum.

Rare court filing puts trial on hold for 4 HPD officers accused in near-fatal crash. The high-profile criminal case against four Honolulu police officers has been shelved until a higher court can rule on the defense team’s interlocutory appeal. Hawaii News Now.

Westside After-School Clubs Are Helping Kids Stay Out Of Trouble. Sports and extracurricular activities can help kids build a sense of community pride — and show them a better life is possible. Civil Beat.

Voter service centers on Oahu open ahead of general election
. With general election just two weeks away, in-person voter service centers open Tuesday across the state. On Oahu, it opens at Kapolei Hale and Honolulu Hale and they will remain open until 7:00 p.m. on Election Day. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

IRONMAN Emphasizes Respect, Safety Ahead Of Kona World Championship. In the first all-male Ironman race in Kona, about 2,500 athletes will compete in the swim, bike and run competition that covers 140.6 miles on Saturday, starting at the Kailua Pier and ending on Aliʻi Drive. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.

Kona hotel prepares again to serve as hub for Ironman World Championship. When a semi-truck loaded with pasta and other foods arrived at the Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort last week, the employees knew that soon to follow would be hoards of hungry triathletes competing in the 2024 VinFast Ironman World Championship. Big Island Now.

Volcano Skatepark reopens after 4+ year closure. Volcano Skatepark is one of the only wooden and indoor parks out of eight skateparks on the island. KHON2. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Feedback conflicting on how to rebuild Lahaina. Survivors of the Aug. 8, 2023, Lahaina wildfire expressed both clear and often conflicting opinions on how to rebuild the historic fishing village, with many participants in community engagement sessions on long-term recovery calling for better communications and other technological upgrades to respond to future emergencies, climate change and sea-level rise. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Maui News. Maui Now.  KHON2.  KITV4

HECO narrowly avoided cutting power in West Maui last week. What happened? West Maui customers were told last Wednesday that Hawaiian Electric might have had to cut power as a fire prevention measure under the new protocols of the utility's Public Safety Power Shutoff program, which launched in July. Hawaii Public Radio.

Trash, invasive trees and abandoned vehicles to be removed from 5-acre County-owned parcel at Ukumehame.  In coordination with Mālama Maui Nui and Kane’s Legacy Tree Services, the County of Maui will be conducting trash removal, invasive tree cleanup and abandoned vehicles disposal during a three-day period from Oct. 23-25 at a 5-acre parcel owned by the County directly mauka of mile marker 13.5 in Ukumehame, West Maui.  Maui Now.

Mayor Bissen to host community budget meeting on Lānaʻi, Oct. 23.  Mayor Richard Bissen and his administration will host a community budget meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23, at ILWU Union Hall in Lānaʻi City. Maui Now.

Kauai


Should Kauai’s Police Commission Get More Time For Investigations? The seven-member commission that oversees the operations of the island’s police department currently has 90 days to go through the entire process of investigating all complaints that come to it.  Civil Beat.

Voter Service Center to open in Lihue. The Voter Service Center (VSC) is scheduled to open on Tuesday, Oct, 22, in the basement of the historic County Annex Building at 4386 Rice St. in Lihue. Garden Island.

Monday, September 30, 2024

Erosion risks increase on Oahu's famed North Shore, Navy plans to double bombing of bird sanctuary island, ICE detention worries Lahaina immigrants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State, city officials warning Sunset Beach residents of increasing erosion risks. State and city officials are warning homeowners and community members of increasing risks along a stretch of Sunset Beach where erosion caused part of a house to collapse last week. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Navy Plans To Double Bombing Of This Tiny Hawaiian Island. U.S. Navy plans bombing exercises at state bird sanctuary amid community backlash. Ka'ula is vital to maintain military readiness for the Pacific, the Navy says. But its plan to boost training there alarms the community, environmentalists. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Saving corals requires cutting carbon emissions, University of Hawai‘i study finds. Hawai‘i researchers have discovered that eight of the most common species of coral around the islands can adapt to ocean warming and acidification, but only if efforts to cut carbon emissions are made. Big Island Now.

A tribute to longtime Maui resident Kris Kristofferson. One of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century, Kristofferson often donated his time for worthy causes, particularly in his hometown of Hana. He died at his Maui home on Saturday at age 88. Maui News. Reuters.

Oahu

Voters To Decide Pay Raises For The Honolulu City Council
. Honolulu voters will get a say on how City Council members’ salaries are determined, a response to widespread criticism over the 64% raises given to them last year by the city salary commission. Civil Beat.

Election will decide whether Kailua turning left or right.  Voters in Kailua and a portion of Kaneohe will pick someone new to represent them in the state House of Representatives on Nov. 5, choosing between a Democrat and a Republican who disagree whether Kailua has become more progressive or more conservative after decades of reelecting moderate Republican Rep. Cynthia Thielen. Star-Advertiser.

Age, philosophy divide rivals for Kaneohe-to-Mokuleia seat. Republican state Sen. Brenton Awa, 38, faces his first reelection contest on Nov. 5 against a fellow Native Hawaiian who’s a generation older, 65-year-old Democrat Ben Shafer, to represent a vast and diverse district that runs from the northern end of Kaneohe, up the Windward side and across the North Shore to Mokuleia. Star-Advertiser.

Locked out Kapiolani nurses to keep benefits; contract talks to resume Monday.  The hospital’s administration said that it would continue medical, dental and vision benefits after Monday after the union agreed to continue using a federal mediators for negotiations and not to disrupt access to the hospital. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki center closer to redevelopment. The Hawaii Housing Finance Development Corp. is entering into a memorandum of agreement with the Waikiki Community Center that clears the way for redevelopment of the existing center and remaining property, which could include a 135- to 200-unit affordable housing tower. Star-Advertiser.

Waipahu park reopens after nearly $4.2 million in renovations. After about 21 months of renovations and nearly $4.2 million later, Waipahu’s Hans L’Orange Neighborhood Park has reopened to the public. KHON2.

Waiʻanae farm gets $100k grant to bolster workforce housing and retain employees. A $100,000 grant will help provide housing for farmers working in Waiʻanae for MAʻO Organic Farms. The grant is part of a Nareit initiative to support affordable housing projects provided by nonprofit organizations. Hawaii Public Radio.

State receives 6 bids to remove Falls of Clyde. The latest development could well signal an end to the long saga of the 145-year-old ship currently berthed at Pier 7, where it once served as a floating museum for the Hawaii Maritime Center. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Army man faked marriage for ill-gotten benefits. An ex-Army soldier was sentenced to three months in federal prison Thursday and must pay $202,309 in restitution after conspiring with a woman to evade U.S. immigration laws, enter into a fake marriage and steal federal benefits. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


Puna Traffic Alert: Changes To Highway 130 Contraflow Start Monday. The Hawaiʻi DOT says changes will include right turns only into and out of Kaloli Drive and a 0.3-mile extension in both directions. Big Island Video News.

3 Hawaiian monk seal pups admitted to marine mammal hospital in Kona. Three underweight Hawaiian monk seal pups observed in the Northern Hawaiian Islands were brought to the marine mammal center in Kona as researchers were concerned for their survival heading into winter. Big Island Now.

County receives large donation of animal control equipment. The Hawaii County Council approved a resolution earlier this month accepting a donation of equipment worth $144,595 for the county’s Animal Control and Protection Agency. Tribune-Herald.

More funding in the works to battle ROD. 
Additional federal funding to combat Rapid ‘Ohi‘a Death has strong support in Congress after a bill by Hawaii lawmakers unanimously passed the House of Representatives this week. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

An ICE Detention In Lahaina Rocks The Immigrant Community. An undocumented immigrant was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week in Lahaina, sending fear through the community and raising concerns that undocumented people will stop asking for government assistance while they’re still trying to recover from last year’s wildfires.  Civil Beat.

Rebuild of homes destroyed in Kula fire runs into costly wastewater upgrades.
Kula, as is the rest of the state, is running up against a law passed by the state Legislature in 2017 that mandates all cesspools be eliminated in Hawai’i by 2050. Maui Now.

Maui mayor voices need for county water distribution after wildfires. Maui water rights advocates are celebrating a move by Mayor Richard Bissen to take control over water distribution in his county. The mayor says the county can do more to restore natural streams while still providing water for housing and agriculture. Hawaii News Now.

Maui lawmaker says millions of gallons of recycled waste water are going unused daily.
A Maui Lawmaker says a water shortage is delaying the construction of hundreds of needed residential units in West and South Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Officials sort priorities to devise Lahaina recovery plan. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its federal, state and local partners have cleared only 64% of commercial lots, with completion not expected until early 2025. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii DOE Continues Its Search For An Elementary School Campus In Lahaina. School leaders said it's not possible to return the school to its original location in Lahaina town because of limited space. Civil Beat. Maui News.

Baldwin Beach Park reopens after pavilion is removed.
Baldwin Beach Park was reopened on Friday, after work to remove the park pavilion was completed, according to a Friday announcement by the County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation.  Maui News.

Kauai

County asks East Kauaʻi residents to attend upcoming ‘community design workshops’. The Planning Department of the County of Kauaʻi will hold several workshops in Kapaʻa and surrounding areas from Oct. 1-3 as part of its East Kaua‘i Community and Circulation Plan. Kauai Now.

DHHL shifts strategy to acquire Kauai rental complex. Courtyards at Waipouli, the 82-unit complex that DHHL wants to buy despite pushback from existing tenants and some agency beneficiaries, would no longer be reserved for beneficiaries with low and very low incomes as previously planned. Star-Advertiser.

Blessing held for Lima Ola housing project. A small group of dignitaries participated in the blessing of the Lima Ola Supportive Housing Project in Eleele on Friday. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Thursday, July 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island


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

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

Friday, June 14, 2024

Red Hill oversight panel shutdown controversy heats up, Maui County loses appeal in waste-to-energy project, bleak summer forecast for coral reefs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New Coral Disease Forecast Tool Shows High Risks Of Summer Outbreaks In Hawaii. Coral researchers in Hawaii recently developed a new early warning system that forecasts how likely it is for two common diseases to afflict those vital marine animals in the Pacific, and it already shows a strong chance of outbreaks across the Hawaiian archipelago this summer. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Wants To Expand Career-Based Learning But It Needs More Teachers. The state is giving out bonuses and may ease licensing requirements to address an ongoing shortage of instructors in career technical education. Civil Beat.

Pacific leaders of 5 island nations forge a political alliance in Hawaiʻi. Traditional leaders from across the Pacific are uniting to create the Oceania Traditional Leaders Forum, a dedicated space for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among Pacific nations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kamaka Air has resumed inter-island air cargo service to all islands. The carrier announced the news Thursday after suddenly halting all flights last week due to staffing issues. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi gas prices remain steady. The statewide average price for regular unleaded is $4.76, which is the same as week. The national average gas price is $3.46, two cents lower than last week.  Maui Now.

Oahu

Hawaii Congressional Leaders Deny Supporting Shutdown Of Red Hill Oversight Panel. An EPA official was captured on video characterizing the delegation's stance, but the EPA now says that never happened. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

The City Stopped Mandating Parking In New Urban Housing. Builders Are Providing It Anyway. Honolulu is learning that people have a hard time parting with their cars. Developers know it and are paying millions to provide parking. Civil Beat.

City addresses utility’s power shut-off program. Starting July 1, Hawaiian Electric says it will cut off power to its customers when conditions prove too hazardous to life and property. Star-Advertiser.

New solar farm celebrated on Ewa plain. Developers of the 42-megawatt Kupono Solar project held a ceremony Thursday recognizing the completion of the facility, which began commercial service June 7 and also has batteries capable of storing four days’ worth of electricity produced by the roughly 120,000 solar panels on 131 acres of land leased from the Navy. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit filed against state, Catholic Charities and DHS. A civil lawsuit filed on behalf of a 5-year-old adopted son of Brandy Blas and Thomas Blas, who were charged with the murder and abuse of 10-year-old Geanna Bradley, reveals he had numerous scars and bruises and suffered from malnutrition and developmental delays. Star-Advertiser.

People stuck in elevators, traffic gridlock: Power outage triggers chaos in busy business district. The Downtown Honolulu power failure Thursday struck the center of Hawaii commerce and government, shutting down federal and state offices, courts and the work of thousands of office employees. The power went out about 10 a.m. and wasn’t restored until nine hours later. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Hawaii Island


‘This is a broken system’: Effort to reform Child Welfare Services gains momentum. Concerned community members have banded together to reform Hawaii’s child welfare system to better serve the most vulnerable families and children. Tribune-Herald.

Summer Food Service Sites On Hawaiʻi Island Announced. Meals will be provided to all children from June 12th to July 19th at various sites around the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County Loses Appeal In Case Involving Waste-To-Energy Project. The Intermediate Court of Appeals found that the county should have done the environmental review of Anaergia Services' proposed sludge-drying facility. Civil Beat.

Maui Mayor Signs $1.7B County Budget Into Law. Mayor Richard Bissen signed the overall county budget bill into law Wednesday, ending any question about whether he would veto any parts of the final version the Maui County Council approved last week. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Survey: Maui Fire Survivors Cite Urgent Financial Needs And Housing Instability As Major Concerns. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement issued a report highlighting a range of problems experienced by people who lived through last summer's deadly wildfires. Civil Beat.

Unsafe Water Advisory lifted for area L-6B in Lahaina. The Unsafe Water Advisory for Lahaina was amended to remove area L-6B, including properties primarily along Honoapiʻilani Highway and Ainakea Road, from Wahikuli Road to Kaniau Road. Maui Now.

MPD pledges action on fire safety gear for officers, but timeline unclear. MPD’s preliminary after-action report on the Lahaina wildfire confirmed most responding officers didn’t have basic equipment needed to keep them safe. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kauai firefighters battling 1,200-acre brushfire in Kokee. Firefighters from the Waimea and Hanapepe fire stations responded, along with the on-duty battalion chief, the Kauai Police Department, Kauai Department of Public Works, and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. Firefighters with the Pacific Missile Range Facility also responded. Star-Advertiser.  Garden Island. KHON2. KITV4.

Coquis found on Kauai after 2012 eradication. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture is working to stop the spread of coqui frogs on Kauai. KHON2.

Monday, March 4, 2024

Legislature-UH power struggle to play out on Senate floor, state to search across the islands for geothermal energy, HECO campaign contributions, lawmakers' stock holdings analyzed, TMT risks losing billions of NSF funding, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Supporters Say ‘Abuse Of Power’ Is At The Heart Of Senate Committee’s Rejection Of UH Regent. The full Senate is set to vote on Alapaki Nahale-a's reappointment this week.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Take Campaign Money From Hawaiian Electric But Don’t Own Its Stock. Rep. Richard Onishi, D-Hilo,  appears to be the only elected Hawaii lawmaker who has declared holding any interest in Hawaiian Electric Industries stock, according to the most recent public financial disclosures filed with the Hawaii Ethics Commission. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric adjusts customer energy programs. A recent ruling by the state Public Utilities Commission has led Hawaiian Electric to modify and push back the start of new rooftop solar and energy storage programs to April 1. Star-Advertiser.

State to embark on search for geothermal energy sources.
In the race to meet the state’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045, the Hawaii State’s Energy Office will embark on a new venture by searching for geothermal energy sources throughout the state.  KHON2.

Efforts to lower Hawaii teachers’ housing costs advance. Two bills intended to help retain Hawaii teachers by providing assistance to reduce their housing costs continue to advance through the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Senate committees advance marijuana legalization bill. Two Senate committees jointly advanced an amended bill that would legalize recreational marijuana in Hawai’i in a Friday meeting, pushing the measure closer toward final approval.  Big Island Now.

Farmers advocate at the state Capitol for action on agricultural crimes. Agricultural crimes are a nearly universal experience for local ranchers and farmers. Now, the state is being called on to do more about it. Hawaii Public Radio.

After nearly 3 decades, State Representative Bertrand Kobayashi announces decision to retire.
He said in a statement Friday that he suffered a “mini cerebrovascular incident” this past December and said the condition “may tend to worsen with time and age.” Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s midwifery licensure law comes under fire.
The Center for Reproductive Rights, the Native Hawaiian Legal Corp. and law firm Perkins Coie filed a lawsuit last week on behalf of nine women and countless others affected by Hawaii’s “Midwifery Restriction Law,” which they say criminalizes many practitioners including skilled midwives, birth workers and family members who provide care and support to pregnant people and those giving birth. Star-Advertiser.

Coast Guard navigates bureaucracy in fight against illegal fishing. Efforts to protect the Pacific’s fish stocks are becoming increasingly international. Australia, New Zealand and France have joined the U.S. in ramping up support for Pacific island countries to protect fisheries as well as police the high seas. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Mayor identifies affordable housing as key priority in budget proposal for upcoming fiscal year. Honolulu’s mayor revealed his budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year, prioritizing affordable housing even though the budget was down. Mayor Rick Blangiardi is requesting $3.63 billion in operating costs, up from $3.41 billion from the previous year. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor allocates $80M for COVID hazard back pay in his FY25 proposed budget. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi's proposed $3.6 billion operating budget for the next fiscal year includes $80 million for back pay to city workers exposed to hazardous situations in the pandemic. KITV4.

City Council lays out official strategy for climate change prevention on Oʻahu. Honolulu has adopted Climate Ready Oʻahu, the city’s first-ever climate adaptation strategy. The Honolulu City Council this week approved a resolution to establish the strategy against the impacts of climate change. Hawaii Public Radio.

After Lahaina, Waianae Coast Residents Might Finally Get A Key Evacuation Route. State leaders think it's an opportune time to make much-needed fixes to outdated transportation infrastructure at Kolekole Pass. Civil Beat.

Plan to fund Waikiki hula show could spur lawsuit. A new free Waikiki hula show is attracting visitors and kamaaina alike, but legal challenges on how it will be funded are lingering. Star-Advertiser.

YWCA Laniakea’s wellness program to end after more than 100 years. For more than 100 years, the YWCA Laniakea has offered group exercise classes, a fitness center and access to a one-of-a-kind pool at its downtown campus. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Festival’s return builds bonds.
Visitors from Japan are expected to double for this year’s Honolulu Festival, a cultural exchange celebrating Japan and the Pacific Rim that kicks off Friday and runs through March 10. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Thirty Meter Telescope risks losing billions in funding from the National Science Foundation. Funding for the Thirty Meter Telescope may be in jeopardy following a decision by the National Science Foundation board to place a $1.6 billion budget cap on giant telescope projects. Hawaii Public Radio.

Puna groundwater study sought: It would try to determine whether PGV has an impact. The impacts of Puna Geothermal Venture on Puna’s groundwater could be the subject of a nearly $500,000 federal study being proposed by a Hawaii County Council member. Tribune-Herald.

Street Medicine Program Expands On Hawaiʻi Island.
The Hawaiʻi Island Community Health Center’s Street Medicine Outreach program is now bringing quality healthcare directly to individuals facing homelessness, across the island. Big Island Video News.

Hundreds rally in Punaluu in protest of major planned development.
The protestors are speaking out against Black Sand Beach LLC and its plans to revitalize the area. The company’s website says it’s committed to rebuilding historic structures and listening to the community before building anything new on its more than 400 acres around Black Sand Beach. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Questions remain over threats of moratorium on West Maui vacation rentals. A threat to put a moratorium on Maui vacation rentals has been averted as conversions of short-term units into longer-term housing for wildfire survivors continues, but the attention now turns to West Maui under Gov. Josh Green’s new April 1 deadline to find units for those who don’t want to be relocated away from the area they call home. Star-Advertiser.

Prefab buildings in Lahaina to house wildfire survivors. A state social services agency is working to produce what could be the first temporary housing community developed for Maui fire survivors, a 450-unit project where initial occupancy is expected in a few months. Star-Advertiser.

Army Corps Leader Hands Off Lahaina Recovery Mission After 6 Months Of 24/7 Days. With skills learned in Iraq and Afghanistan, Col. Jesse Curry says he embraced the people and culture to gain support for the Army Corps of Engineers' fire recovery efforts. Civil Beat.

How A Team Of Dedicated Cops And Scientists Sorted Through Ash And Rubble To Identify Lahaina’s Fire Victims. The Maui Police Department was able to quickly bring in the latest DNA technology so a new squad could soon give names to the dead. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i Unites files appeal in effort to stop release of mosquitoes in East Maui. The environmental nonprofit Hawai‘i Unites has filed an appeal for their case against the State of Hawai‘i Board of Land and Natural Resources and Department of Land and Natural Resources to stop the release of mosquitoes in East Maui and require an environmental impact statement and comprehensive studies of the risks of the project. Maui Now.

In Hawaii, coral is the foundation of life. What happened to it after the Lahaina wildfire? Scientists say there has never been another instance of a large urban fire burning next to a coral reef anywhere in the world and they are using the Maui wildfire as a chance to study how chemicals and metals from burned plastics, lead paint and lithium-ion batteries might affect delicate reef ecosystems. Associated Press.

Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi residents say unreliable flights hinder access to critical health care. Mokulele is the only airline flying to Molokaʻi and the primary air service for Lāna’i residents. Community members say the issues have been ongoing for the past couple of years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Relay for Life golf tourney draws 60 golfers. Sam Jacinto of Team Sam Jacinto was thrilled with the 60 golfers who sped off the Puakea Golf Course clubhouse area on Saturday. Garden Island.

Friday, February 16, 2024

Hawaii insures coral reef to guard against climate change, new Maui Emergency Management head says agency shouldn't take the lead in emergencies, Miske cousin testifies about chemical attack at nightclub, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

More Ocean Area Will Be Covered Under Hawaii’s New Coral Reef Insurance Policy. The novel approach to protecting reefs is expanding as state officials consider the more ways to guard against climate change. Civil Beat.

Bill proposes moving Hawaii school construction oversight back to DOE. Just as the state has been trumpeting its opening 13 public preschool classrooms well in advance of its Ready Keiki plan to open 50 to 80 by August, a bill is advancing to repeal the relatively new state School Facilities Authority and move all school construction back again to the state Department of Education, and the authority’s founding executive director has abruptly resigned. Star-Advertiser.

Measure seeks to grant autonomy to state Water Commission following the fires. A proposal currently advancing in the Legislature aims to strengthen the State Water Code and safeguard the Commission on Water Resource Management from outside influence. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers may set new requirement for EV charging in state buildings. House Bill 1829 would require that at least 25% of parking stalls be EV charger-ready in any new state building construction. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gender Inequalities Persist In Hawaii High School Sports 6 Years After Locker Room Scandal. A class-action lawsuit over problems at Campbell High School has been settled, but the state still has a lot of work to do to comply with a federal anti-discrimination law. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Defendant in cases against former Honolulu prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro May Pose Danger To Others, Probation Officer Says. Sheri Jean Tanaka, a defendant in a high-profile Honolulu corruption case may be a “danger” to others or the community, and the court should reconsider the terms of her pretrial release, her probation officer said on Thursday.  Civil Beat.

Miske cousin testifies alleged crime boss ordered him to release chemical into nightclub. Kaulana Freitas also explained his role in a chemical attack at the District Nightclub in 2017, saying he released what he believed was tear gas in the club after Miske ordered him to do so. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu city job openings about 2,500, officials say. In May, DHR Director Nola Miyasaki told the Star- Advertiser that city staffing vacancies remained at 2,500 — a number down from over 3,000 vacancies the year prior. In 2022, Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration took measures to quash the six-month wait time it took to fill an average city and county employee position. Star-Advertiser.

After years of delays, redevelopment of Mayor Wright Housing gets the go-ahead. The Hawaii Public Housing Authority announced Thursday that the city’s Planning and Permitting Department has approved plans to redevelop Mayor Wright Housing. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

New housing development could be coming to St. Francis School property. The property, which is zoned for residential use, was purchased for $23 million according to brokerage firm CBRE. And the developer is looking to build a slew of single family homes to be purchased for roughly $2 million a piece. KHON2.

Newest tiny-home kauhale is blessed on Middle Street
. Ho‘okahi Leo — or “a community with one voice” — was built using units relocated from Hawaii’s first “medical respite kauhale,” which went up temporarily in 2023 near the governor’s mansion and across from The Queen’s Medical Center as a pilot project for discharged homeless patients too frail to heal properly on the street. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.  KHON2.

Experts: Major changes at Wahiawa General will have health care impacts islandwide. Come spring, all inpatient services at Wahiawa General Hospital will be suspended — once Queen’s Health System takes control of the hospital. The reason: Health officials say the aging facility is in such disrepair, it’s not worth investing the money to fix. Hawaii News Now.

Lack of trucks delays refuse and recycling collection on East Oʻahu.
City and County of Honolulu officials didn't explain why there was a lack of collection vehicles, but assures the pick-ups will be made over the next couple of days. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island


Hawaiʻi County Democrats Elect Interim Chair. Pono Kekela was elected Interim Chair of the Hawaiʻi County Committee of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi at its first Quarterly meeting of 2024. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Camera on Maunakea captures image of blazing space debris. A fiery object seen over Maunakea last week is believed to have been the remains of a falling satellite, astronomers say. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County urges state to stiffen penalties for negligent dog owners.  On Hawaii Island, a county resolution will be heard next Wednesday morning that supporters hope will lead to stiffer penalties for dangerous dog owners who are negligent. KITV4.

Maui

New MEMA Administrator says agency shouldn’t take the lead in future emergencies. Lonokailua-Hewett said he sees MEMA as a coordinating and supporting agency instead. The Administrator for the Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) says he doesn’t believe MEMA should take the lead in future emergencies. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Mayor Mum On Why He Placed County Finance Director On Paid Leave.
Scott Teruya has led the department for the past five years but has been off the job since Feb. 2. Civil Beat.

Proposal advances for special board control in rebuilding Lahaina.
Two Senate committees voted unanimously to advance Senate Bill 3381 to a third and final Senate committee where passage is expected ahead of a full Senate vote and potential consideration in the House of Representatives. Star-Advertiser.

$53M Maui Airport Industrial Center breaks ground, opening set for 2025. R.D. Olson Development held a groundbreaking recently of the Maui Airport Industrial Center project, located on a 6.3 acre parcel in Kahului near Costco at 250 Lauo Loop.  Maui Now.

Obstetrician shortage on Maui addressed.
HMSA’s immediate, short-term solution for expectant Maui moms impacted by the obstetrician shortage included arranging travel and appointments for them to receive care on Oahu with Queen’s physicians.  Maui News.

Maggie Batangan named MEO Chief Administrative Officer. Maggie Batangan has been named to the newly created Chief Administrative Officer position for the nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity. Maui News.

Kauai

Wailua Heritage Trail pau, for now.
A joint effort between the County of Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Kaua‘i Visitor Bureau, Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources and Royal Coconut Coast Association (RCCA) resulted in the expansion of the Wailua Heritage Trail to a full 3-mile route. Garden Island.

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Schatz appeals to Senate colleagues to help Maui, Hawaii only state with no fire marshal, Waikiki crime drops under new program, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

'They Need Help': Hawaii Senator Brian Schatz Discusses Deadly Maui Wildfires On Senate Floor. Schatz describes fire’s horror and its aftermath to Congress. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz made no specific funding proposal, but detailed the events that led up to the Aug. 8 Lahaina fire and the ongoing suffering in a speech before Congress on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Hawaii Is The Only State Without A Fire Marshal, Leaving Gaps In Prevention. Instead, Hawaii has a relatively powerless State Fire Council. But fire agencies want that to change. Civil Beat.

Wildfires pose serious risks to coral reefs. The Lāhainā fire could make it worse. Off the coast of Olowalu in West Maui, hundreds of acres of coral cover the ocean floor. It's home to many different species of marine life, including one of the largest known populations of manta rays in the world. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council To Vote On Over $5 Million In Settlement Payouts. The lawsuits included a fatal police shooting case and the city's effort to seize property in Waikiki for affordable housing. Civil Beat.

Anti-crime program for Waikiki marks 1 year. City officials say a program targeting the island’s prime tourist zone has lowered violent and property crimes dramatically since its inception in September 2022. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Honolulu Crime: Why Some Misdemeanor Cases Are Closed Without Review. A new policy in the Honolulu Prosecutor's Office means some allegations will languish if the complainant doesn't call to follow up. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Public Invited To Participate In Next Phase Of General Plan Review.  Public Informational Workshops are scheduled for Hilo and Kona, with online workshops set to take place after. Big Island Video News.

New draft ordinance aims to ban recyclables at West Hawai’i landfill. Hawai‘i County’s Environmental Management Commission is developing an ordinance that aims to prohibit the amount of recyclable materials ending up in the island’s only working landfill.  Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui landowners sued over Lahaina disaster. Attorneys for the plaintiff said the complaint is the first one filed in state court to allege that landowners who had dry, poorly managed brush on their property that fed flames are responsible for the wildfire that killed at least 115 people. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

MPD requires missing-person report to search for those listed as ‘unaccounted for’. People listed as unaccounted for after the Aug. 8 Maui wildfires that killed at least 115 will have their classification changed to deceased through a legal process if they are not found or their remains are left unidentified. Star-Advertiser.

Cleanup of Lahaina’s watery graveyard begins. State and federal agencies are combining forces to oversee the cleanup of Lahaina Harbor, which became a watery graveyard for scores of boats burned and damaged by the massive West Maui wildfire. Star-Advertiser.

West Maui Businesses May Soon Be Able To Tap Into A New $25 Million Grant Program. The program would distribute grants of $10,000 to $20,000 as a lifeline to struggling Lahaina business owners. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Family medicine training to expand on Kaua‘i.  The University of Hawai‘i, John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) announced on Tuesday that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Health Resources and Services Administration, will invest $750,000 to plan and develop a rural family medicine residency program on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Kapa‘a Swimming Pool to reopen Thursday; blessing held last week. Officials initially anticipated construction to be complete by late May 2023. However, further renovations were deemed necessary before the pool reopened. When exposed after removing the tiles and plaster, the pool’s original shell was more deteriorated than expected. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

$25M initiative to restore coral health, monk seal pup found dead on North Shore, Big Island to quit spraying glyphosate on county roadsides, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

$25M initiative to restore health of Hawaii’s coral reefs. Arizona State University on Monday announced the creation of a new $25 million initiative that aims to preserve and restore the vitality to Hawaii’s declining coral reefs. Star-Advertiser.

Monk Seal Pup Found Dead On Oahu’s North Shore.
The discovery comes after officials disclosed another young seal was most likely killed intentionally on the island in March. Civil Beat. Big Island NowKHON2.

State school board shake-up raises questions. No one who knows why Gov. Josh Green removed Bruce Voss as chair of the state Board of Education is talking openly about the reasons.  Star-Advertiser.

Inflation is stabilizing, but Hawaii food costs high. Honolulu’s inflation rate is easing, but prices for some items are still higher than they were last year, according to federal data. Star-Advertiser.

Hotels offer applicants perks amid staffing shortages. More than 80% of hoteliers across the nation are reporting staffing shortages, and Hawaii is no exception with this year’s projection for state hotel jobs expected to be nearly 12% below pre-pandemic levels. Hawaii’s projected hotel job decline is tied for 20th worst along with Arizona and Minnesota.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii On The Hill: Hirono Talks K-Pop, Cats And Carrying On At DC Event. The U.S. senator from Hawaii talked about a wide range of issues during the 7th Annual Hawaii on the Hill event in Washington, D.C. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Ex-Council chair pleads not guilty to abuse charge. Former Honolulu City Council member Ikaika Anderson has pleaded not guilty to allegations of domestic abuse levied by his 34-year-old girlfriend. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

New HPD Budget Adds Potential Hiring Bonuses, Boosts Chinatown And Community Policing.
Recruiting incentives for new officers and civilian hires are under discussion. Civil Beat.

Portal for City’s rent, utility relief program closes after surge in applications. Due to extraordinary demand from Oahu renters, the City and County of Honolulu’s Rental and Utility Relief Program (RURP) application portal closed again Tuesday afternoon. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

The patient numbers at Red Hill's clinic are low
. Why are civilians seeking care elsewhere? Earlier this year, the military opened the Red Hill Clinic to provide treatment to those facing long-term health effects from the November 2021 jet fuel water crisis. Hawaii Public Radio.

City to start major improvement project on Kalākaua Avenue. Honolulu's Department of Design and Construction announced that they will be renovating the roads and curbs for the next nine months. The project also includes adjusting manhole covers and utility boxes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Vandals Nearly Destroyed This Central Oahu Cemetery
. Now The Community Is Standing Up For The Dead. The state has stepped in to untangle legal issues and create a long-term plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

 
County announces changes for own pesticide use
. The County of Hawaii Public Works Department announced Tuesday plans to end the use of glyphosate-based herbicides on County roadsides, drainage structures, rights-of-ways, and easements by July 1. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Charges against two women — cited in a dispute over nene conservation— were dropped by a judge Tuesday. “It’s a win for the cats.” That was the reaction by Nancy Charles-Parker after misdemeanor charges of the taking of endangered and threatened species against her and fellow Waikoloa resident Ferol Kolons were dismissed without prejudice Tuesday by South Kohala District Judge Jill Hasegawa. Tribune-Herald.

Public invited to learn about Wailuku hydroelectric project on Big Island. The public is invited to a meeting this week to learn more about a project that has provided clean, renewable electricity for more than 30 years on the Big Island and plans for its continued operation. Big Island Now.

Maui

Former Mayor, Ex-Mahi Pono Exec Now Want To Steer East Maui’s New Water Board. The council is considering the additional applicants as DHHL scraps its initial recommendation of Jonathan Likeke Scheuer. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green moves to increase healthcare opportunities. 
Governor Josh Green, M.D. announced that he has signed legislation that will expand access to healthcare on Maui. KHON2.

Wailuku parking structure to open in September
. The four-story, 393-stall parking structure that aims to clear up street parking in Wailuku town is set to open Sept. 1, according to Maui County and construction officials. Maui News.

USPS seeks to fill 47 job openings at four Maui post offices; Job Fair Blitz on June 15. The US Postal Service is hosting job fairs on June 15 at the Kahului, Kīhei, Lahaina and Wailuku Post Offices.  Maui Now.

Maui parents want more mental health help for woman who allegedly tried to take child. A Maui woman accused of trying to kidnap a child last month is now facing a new charge. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Owning pepper spray on Kauaʻi may get easier with new law. Unlike other counties in the state, to legally own pepper spray on Kauaʻi, a resident needs a permit. A new bill at the Kauaʻi County Council seeks to change that. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapa‘a Swimming Pool estimated to reopen August. With renovations to the pool beginning in August 2022, the project’s scope of work includes replacing and upgrading the pool filtration, recirculation and chlorination systems. Kauai Now.