Millions for Hawaii in federal spending bill, feds step in to battle Oahu violent crime wave, Ige mum on Mauna Kea enforcement costs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea Volcano crater PC: K. Mulliken USGS Dec. 12, 2019

Federal Spending Deal Pumps Millions Of Dollars Into Hawaii. Congress passed a budget that includes money for programs the Trump administration tried to cut. Civil Beat.

$21 Million For New Volcano Observatory Field Station In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Funding to keep the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory inside the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park was included in the year end spending package making its way through Congress. Big Island Video News.

Bill aims to prevent repeat of Hawaii false missile alert. A defense bill passed by the U.S. Senate on Tuesday seeks to prevent local government agencies from mistakenly warning residents of a ballistic missile attack the way Hawaii did nearly two years ago. Associated Press.

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U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is expected to call for President Donald Trump to be censured over the Ukraine scandal as the full House of Representatives readies today to vote on two articles of impeachment. The lesser punishment is a longshot. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard makes fans of Trump supporters in New Hampshire. The Hawaii congresswoman has proven resilient in the Democratic field, weathering low poll numbers and attacks from top Democratic figures like former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. KITV.

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Worried About Your Tap Water? Civil Beat is sending water testing kits to households across Hawaii. Civil Beat’s environmental podcast “Are We Doomed? And Other Burning Environmental Questions” is working on a project about water quality and is sending drinking water test kits to households across Hawaii. Civil Beat.

In astounding confession, Hawaii child porn suspect claims 100 victims. Federal agents have arrested a Japanese national attending university in Hawaii after a 19-month investigation that led to a huge trove of child pornography ― and an admission from the suspect that he was in contact with more than 100 young girls. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Amid rash of violent crime on Oahu, federal investigators to target most dangerous offenders. U.S. Attorney for Hawaii Kenji Price says his office is prioritizing investigations and prosecutions of criminals with prior felony convictions. KITV.

Federal authorities partner with Honolulu police to address spate of violent crimes. U.S. Attorney Kenji Price said his office is coordinating with the Honolulu Police Department to see federal charges can be brought against some offenders. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Attorney vows to ramp up efforts amid wave of violent crime. United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii Kenji Price said Tuesday that his office will redouble efforts in the face of what appears to be a violent crime wave on Oahu in recent weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Six out of the nine officer-involved shootings this year resulted in a casualty. In six of the nine officer-involved shootings this year, the suspect was killed. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Fatally Shoot 2 Men In Less Than 24 Hours. The shootings come as there appears to be uptick in Honolulu crime. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard says she is concerned that there has been about a 20% increase in the number of violent crimes involving firearms. Associated Press.

Honolulu Police Officer Kills Knife-Wielding Suspect. This was the second fatal officer-involved shooting in less than 24 hours on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Police fatally shoot attempted murder suspect in Campbell Industrial Park. A lone patrol officer shot and killed a 27-year-old man early Tuesday morning in a grassy area of Campbell Industrial Park — the second fatal officer-involved shooting on Oahu in as many days. Star-Advertiser.

Officer-involved shooting in Campbell Industrial Area leaves one man dead. KHON2.

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3 Months After New Law, Oahu Vacation Rental Numbers Drop on Oahu. The number of vacation rentals on Oahu declined more than 5 percent from the same time last year. Honolulu’s recent restrictions on short-term renting appear to be the cause. Hawaii Public Radio.

New B&B tax class draws criticism. A bill signed into law by Mayor Kirk Caldwell over the weekend creates a new property tax classification for Oahu residential properties where bed-and-breakfast establishments operate. Star-Advertiser.

Path cleared for vacation rental permits after new taxes implemented. Vacation rentals will soon be paying more taxes. Honolulu’s mayor signed Bill 55 into law Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

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Air Force Vet Announces Bid For District 1 Council Seat. A military veteran and community leader wants to represent the West Oahu district she has called home for over 20 years. Civil Beat.

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Zippy's and Dave's Ice Cream form new partnership. Meadow Gold Dairies ended its wholesale contract with Dave's after filing for bankruptcy. KITV.

Zippy’s Restaurants scoops up Dave’s Ice Cream to supply its 24 locations. Zippy’s Restaurants has agreed to continue scooping a lot of locally made ice cream in a deal that helps sustain Pearl City-based Dave’s Ice Cream Inc. Star-Advertiser.

Zippy’s strikes a deal with local ice cream supplier. Zippy’s is cutting out the middle man when it comes to their supply of ice cream in a recently announced deal that will likely save local jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Zippy’s announces deal with Dave’s Ice Cream. Prior to the deal, they said they had to cut back production because of loss of business. KHON2.

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Atherton foundation sells land under Kakaako high-rise. The Atherton Family Foundation has sold the land under a Kakaako affordable-housing rental tower to a state agency as part of a deal to improve the property through a private-public partnership. Star-Advertiser.

City communications director Andrew Pereira leaving for position in public relations.
Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Tuesday that Andrew Pereira will be leaving his position as communications director at the City and County of Honolulu to take a new position in the private sector.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Gov. David Ige mum on how much money budgeted to deal with protests against Thirty Meter Telescope. More money to deal with the ongoing protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope has been tucked away in the proposed new budgets of various state departments, but Gov. David Ige and his staff aren’t saying exactly how much. Star-Advertiser.

Energy code changes pass committee. A bill that would make 46 changes to the county’s energy conservation code passed a County Council committee meeting Tuesday and will go before the full council. Tribune-Herald.

Department of Environmental Management to Address Widespread Transfer Station Closures by Funding More Staff. For the last several weeks, Big Island transfer station closures have seemed almost a daily occurrence. Big Island Now.

Cheaper greens ahead: West Hawaii golf subsidy program tees off Jan. 2. Hawaii County’s subsidized golf program returns Jan. 2, some 6.5 years after funding was slashed in 2012 amid tough economic times that resulted in reduced spending across the board and even monthly employee furloughs. West Hawaii Today.

‘A legacy of visual truth’: Retired Tribune-Herald photog William Ing dies at 75. William “Will” Ing, the retired Hawaii Tribune-Herald photographer who took the newspaper’s images from the darkroom to the digital age, died Monday of lung cancer at his home in Hot Springs, S.D. He was 75. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor appoints Tyson Miyake to chief of staff position. Josiah Nishita set to take on Miyake’s past role as deputy managing director. Maui News.

Legal fireworks permit sales start today. Caution urged in light of recent brush fires; aerials are still illegal. Maui News.

Kauai

HoKua Place EIS approved. The state Land Use Commission on Tuesday approved the final environmental impact statement for a petition to rezone 97 acres in Kapaa for urban use, making way for a proposed residential development. Garden Island.

Kauai officers on patrol now required to keep blue lights on, day or night. Patrol officers and sergeants are already required to keep the blue lights on at night. Under the new provision, they may only turn it off under special authorized circumstances. Hawaii News Now.

KIUC announces successes in energy generation. Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is now powering Kauai more routinely off of 100% renewable energy, and though that goal isn’t reached on a daily basis, the co-op is getting close. Garden Island.

Thirty Meter Telescope decision delayed, Mauna Kea bills progress in Legislature, Honolulu rail auditor named, Kauai studies landfill site, Maui ethics board investigates gifts, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu skyline ©2018 All Hawaii News

Honolulu ranks No. 1 in survey of clean cities. The international consulting firm Mercer ranked Honolulu No. 1 in sanitation in a recent survey analyzing more than 450 cities worldwide. Star-Advertiser.

A recent survey ranked America's most popular and least popular governors. Hawaii's governor ranked in the bottom 10. KHON2.

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Officials: Decision on future of Thirty Meter Telescope project delayed. A decision will be made on the planned location of the Thirty Meter Telescope as further progress is made in the legal and regulatory processes at both proposed sites. Hawaii News Now.

In the closest Senate vote this year, lawmakers voted 15-8 in favor of a ban on new construction atop Mauna Kea, but the effort is likely to collapse as their counterparts in the House say they don’t want to interfere with the Thirty Meter Telescope planned near the mountain’s summit. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate passed two bills affecting management of Maunakea on Thursday. Both measures — House bills 1585 and 1985 — likely will end up in conference committees since the House is expected to reject changes the Senate made through a process known as “gut and replace.” Tribune-Herald.

The full Senate approved a measure Thursday that would stop construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope atop Mauna Kea if the University of Hawaii doesn’t meet certain requirements. Hawaii News Now.

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The state Legislature’s response to the Jan. 13 ballistic missile false alarm has been a complete dud, according to state Rep. Matt LoPresti. Star-Advertiser.

A controversial bill that would provide funding to a company to build a revolutionary satellite launch facility somewhere in the state is nearing passage despite vocal misgivings from Ka'u residents. Tribune-Herald.

Ag initiatives, potential ADC audit intertwine and head to conference committee. The papaya initiative appropriates funds to study why and where in the growing and transport process the fruit breaks down so as to make it more viable for export, thereby strengthening Hawaii’s agricultural economy, particularly on the Big Island where the vast majority of the state’s papaya is grown. West Hawaii Today.

More than $9 million in fruit and nut exports from Hawaii could be affected by tariffs announced by China earlier this month. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Senate voted to confirm Gov. David Ige's pick for the director of the Department of Human Resources Development on Thursday. The new director, Ryker Wada was deputy director of DHRD since December 2016, and was appointed director by Ige in January, following the retirement of then-director James Nishimoto. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of kupuna filled the state Capitol grounds Thursday for the annual Kupuna Power Day, an information fair designed to “empower” senior citizens with education and resources. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New City Council Leadership Challenges Caldwell’s Proposed Budget. The Budget Committee declined the mayor’s request to set aside $44 million for rail operating costs. Civil Beat.

Former prosecutor, judge selected to lead rail investigation. The state legislative auditor has hired former prosecutor and state judge Randal Lee to head the $200,000 rail audit. Hawaii News Now.

Councilwoman calls for more officers, community leaders to help tackle crime on Oahu's Leeward Coast. KITV.

City using private security to lock up some Oahu parks at night. After more than 600 acts of vandalism to city parks in three years, Mayor Kirk Caldwell today unveiled a three-month pilot project that began this month to lock up gates and bathrooms when city parks are supposed to be off limits. Star-Advertiser.

A pilot project to secure park facilities during park closure hours has begun in Urban Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Plans to dismantle breakwater at Cromwell's beach run into opposition. Hawaii News Now.

A large residential complex now standing in a prime Honolulu corner lot in Kapahulu went up with no city building permit and despite a stop-work order. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Target Bicyclists With No Registration Tags. Advocates for more bike use were irked by recent police enforcements that appeared to target registration more than safety concerns. Civil Beat.

Concern over new type of bike sharing program prompts proposal to change bike laws. KHON2.

Low-income rental tower could break ground in 2020. A state board has selected a developer to put up a low-income rental apartment tower and a new youth shelter and service center on the site of a run-down former juvenile detention center on state land in Pawaa. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Technology Development Corp. to break ground on Kakaako innovation center next week. The Hawaii Technology Development Corp. will break ground on its Entrepreneurs’ Sandbox Facility in Kakaako on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Kauhale Kamaile, the modular housing project that opened in Waianae last month, is completely full. Hawaii News Now.

Community shaken after large boulder lands near Manoa home. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric to break ground on new solar farm next week. The Honolulu-based utility will host a blessing and ground-breaking ceremony for its new 20-megawatt West Loch Solar facility at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam’s West Loch Annex on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Plans to build a South Kona Police Station remain unknown since the project was put off due to lack of funding, according to Hawaii County officials this week. West Hawaii Today.

County Councilman Aaron Chung has drafted a bill that would allow a farmers market to be set up temporarily at Mooheau Park in downtown Hilo across from Hilo Farmers Market. Tribune-Herald.

After serving as the Acting Director of the Hawaii County Department of Public Works for half a year, Allan G. Simeon was confirmed as the official head of the department on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

Entrance fees at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii island are slated to go up in 2020, the National Park Service announced today, in order to provide additional funding for infrastructure and maintenance. Star-Advertiser.

Gun-Surrender Laws Don’t Reassure This Doctor After Death Threats. An abortion protester was ordered to surrender his firearms after a temporary restraining order was issued. Civil Beat.

A five-bedroom house at the Kukio Golf and Beach Club on the Big Island sold last month for $27.5 million, eclipsing the sale of a beachfront house on Maui to become the highest-priced residential real estate sale in Hawaii so far this year. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Maui County Council Chair Mike White announced today that he will be retiring at the end of the term and will not be seeking re-election. Maui Now.

Ethics Board looking into tournament gifts. Maui Jim Maui Invitational swag, tickets worth thousands of dollars. Maui News.

Thousands Sign Petition Against Paia Inn Permit Request. A contested case involving a special use permit for the nine-room Paia Inn and café along Maui’s north shore, has been remanded back to the Maui Planning Commission for review. Maui Now.

Maui Police Department employees were disciplined with suspensions ranging from one to 10 days for violations sustained in 16 cases last year, according to an MPD report to the state Legislature. Maui News.

The owner of The Maui Cookie Lady recently signed with retail website Goldbely to sell her handmade cookies on the site, thanks to one of her biggest fans — The Rock, the actor also known as Dwayne Johnson. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

County takes another step in creation of new landfill. In the next 10 to 12 years, Kauai is going to need somewhere to put its trash, and officials are looking at 270 acres near Hanamaulu for a new municipal solid waste landfill. Garden Island.

Twenty more overnight camping permits are becoming available for Kalalau. The first day the peak-season permits will be available is Tuesday. Garden Island.

General Plan available online. This plan updates the last General Plan that was completed in 2000 and reflects diverse community input that was collected over the last three years. Garden Island.

Tourism up, crime down, final vote for $2.4B rail bailout bill today, Ige cools 1k schools, OHA member pays $25k ethics fine, waters woes not to impact Ironman, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourists at Honolulu farmers market © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Visitor Spending Jumped Nearly 10 Percent In July. Travelers spent $1.6 billion last month, and the number of visitors climbed almost 7 percent to more than 890,000. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s visitor industry knocked it out of the park in July, which was the biggest month ever in Hawaii tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor spending in Hawaii increased 9.8 percent to $1.6 billion in July, with year-to-date spending rising 8.9 percent to $9.95 billion, compared to the same period last year, beating expectations for the month, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Visitors to Hawaii from the U.S. East Coast brought the largest gains in spending in July, with spending from that market increasing 22 percent last month to $452.5 million, compared to last year, and contributing to an overall increase in visitor spending of 10 percent. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says spending by visitors jumped nearly 10 percent last month compared to a year earlier. Garden Island.

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Hawaii achieved a record-low crime rate in 2016 as three of the state’s four counties led the way in setting their own record rates. Star-Advertiser.

Go. David Ige fulfills goal to air-condition 1K classrooms. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's public school children will be more comfortable this school year after the state kept its promise of installing air conditioning units in 1,000 classroom across the islands. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige out beats his promise to cool 1,000 classrooms. KITV.

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Based on a procedural voice vote Thursday, rail’s controversial bailout bill appears poised to easily pass the House today. Star-Advertiser.

The Legislature’s $2.4 billion rail funding package, expected to clear its final legislative hurdle Friday, won’t just bring a big influx of of cash to the over-budget and behind-schedule project. Civil Beat.

A bill increasing the hotel tax statewide to bail out the vastly over-budget Honolulu rail project advanced in the House on Thursday after narrowly clearing its committees the night before. West Hawaii Today.

Senate Bill 4 is nearing final passage during this week’s Special Legislative Session. But funding Honolulu’s Rail Transit Project caused some clashes between lawmakers. Hawaii Public Radio.

The rail bail out bill faces one final hurdle with a final floor vote in the House Friday. KITV.

Facing pressure from state lawmakers to find new revenue sources, the city and the rail authority are taking a second look at private and public partnerships. Hawaii News Now.

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The state Ethics Commission has fined an Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee $25,000 for violating ethics laws by using his state office, staff and resources for his own business purposes on “innumerable occasions,” including on a critical vote and subsequent work associated with the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission announced Thursday that it has reached a $25,000 settlement agreement with Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee Peter Apo, who admitted to using the state agency’s connections and resources to benefit his consulting firm, The Peter Apo Company. Civil Beat.

An Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee who admitted to making an inquiry with a business from the Thirty Meter Telescope after publicly advocating for its construction will pay a $25,000 fine to the state ethics commission. Hawaii News Now.

The Army has declared as deceased the final two missing members of a UH-60 Black Hawk that crashed during night training off Kaena Point Aug. 15. Star-Advertiser.

The Army has declared dead the final two soldiers missing after a Black Hawk helicopter with a crew of five crashed off Hawaii earlier this month. Associated Press.

Hawaii is neglecting a “hidden economy” by significantly undervaluing its nearshore fisheries both economically and culturally, according to a recently published report. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

On Oahu 1,400 establishments hold liquor licenses. The Honolulu Liquor Commission's proposed license fee increase would raise what they pay by 70 percent. Hawaii News Now.

A nonprofit developer has completed a $33 million first phase of preservation work on an old Kunia pineapple plantation village to provide affordable housing for retirees and low-income farmworkers. Star-Advertiser.

An annual truck rally held Sunday in Kapolei was disrupted when Honolulu police officers and city vehicle inspectors arrived in force. Hawaii News Now.

Can anything be done about the flooding in Mapunapuna? KHON2.

Honolulu-based Hensel Phelps Construction Co. on Thursday received two contracts totaling close to $39 million from U.S. Department of Defense for construction work in Hawaii and Guam. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Crime hits record low. Tribune-Herald.

Rates that will cause Hawaii island residents’ electrical bills to rise nearly $5 a month went into effect Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A U.S. Coast Guard investigator identified a brownish slick floating offshore of Kahaluu Beach Park as possibly algae, authorities said Thursday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

The Ironman World Championship, the thousands of visitors it brings and a water shortage at the heart of the action in North Kona during one of the hottest times of the year appears a volatile and potentially dangerous mix. But it might not be so bad as it seems. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo welcomes Douglas Shinsato, nominated by the governor to be the new UH Regent. Big Island Video News.

State Sen. Kai Kahele of Hilo wants the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s enrollment to exceed 5,000 students in 10 years. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County’s total Index Crime rate in 2016 was the highest in the State of Hawaii; but it was also its lowest level on record since the start of statewide data collection in 1975. Maui Now.

Maui’s Short Term Rentals. Residents of Paia and Haiku are trying to decide the future of short-term rentals in their community after an unusual discovery: their current community plan and the Maui County Code don't match up. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Study: 72% of Maui Ocean Drownings are Visitors. Maui Now.

The Hawaii State Department of Education reports that progress is being made by school bus contractors to address the current shortage of Commercial Driver Licensed drivers on Maui and Kauai qualified to operate school buses. Maui Now.

Kauai

Though the Air Force reduced the number of bombs aimed at a training area 50 miles off the coast of Kauai, conservationists are still concerned about the whales and dolphins in the area. Garden Island.

Obama and Abe to visit Pearl Harbor, Native Hawaiian constitution gains supporters, Menor to lead Honolulu City Council, Big Island inauguration today for mayor, council, three candidates chosen to replace Tsuji, Maui has highest crime rate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama and Abe May 2016 Facebook photo

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will visit Pearl Harbor with U.S. President Barack Obama at the end of this month, becoming the first leader of his country to go to the site of the Japanese attack that propelled the United States into World War II. Associated Press.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will visit Pearl Harbor later this month, becoming the first Japanese head of state to ever visit the site of the surprise attack. President Obama will accompany Abe on the visit, which is scheduled for Dec. 27. Hawaii Public Radio.

World War II veterans and Navy brass gathered Sunday to celebrate the restoration of a weather forecasting center on Ford Island that was used as a flight control tower during the Dec. 7, 1941, attack. Star-Advertiser.

The December 7th attack on Pearl Harbor 75 years ago resulted in 54 civilian casualties on O’ahu mostly caused by friendly fire. Hawaii Public Radio.

A campaign to bring about a ratification vote for the draft Native Hawaiian constitution has received a boost with a pledge of support from an association of more than 100 Native Hawaiian organizations. Star-Advertiser.

The Senate leadership has reshuffled some of the key committee assignments as it readies for the start of the 2017 legislative session in January. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin is expected to lose his leadership gavel to Councilman Ron Menor in the new year under a reorganization plan expected to garner the support of a majority of the nine-member panel. Star-Advertiser.

A new bill aimed at treating Uber and Lyft drivers more like traditional cabbies was approved 9-0 by the Hono­lulu City Council on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The costs of Honolulu’s rail project could go as high as $9.5 billion under one scenario in an updated financial plan for the project released by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Friday. Civil Beat.

One of Hawaii’s eight medical marijuana dispensary licensees announced this week that it raised $10.9 million in equity financing and has completed construction of its offices and design of its Honolulu dispensary on Young Street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Three candidates — Moana Kelii, Stacy Higa and Christopher Todd — were chosen by party members during a Saturday morning voting session as candidates for the House seat vacated by the death of Rep. Clift Tsuji. Tribune-Herald.

Moana Hokoana Keli`i, Stacy Higa and Chris Todd have been chosen from a list of seven Democrats. Governor David Ige will now choose one of them to fill the late Rep. Clift Tsuji's seat. Big Island Video News.

Fellow lawmakers, friends and family gathered to honor the life of the late state Rep. Clift Tsuji on Friday, remembering his booming voice, fairness as a committee chairman tackling divisive topics and deep love for his family and district. Associated Press.

Not everything old is new again, but the inauguration set Monday for a mayor who’s returning to office after eight years, a majority of returning County Council members and a re-elected county prosecutor means there will be a lot of familiar faces around county government. West Hawaii Today.

The developer of a $225 million biomass plant on the Big Island of Hawaii that is about 50 percent complete filed a civil complaint this week against Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., NextEra Energy Inc. and Hamakua Energy Partners LP for alleged anticompetitive and illegal conduct related to the termination of the developer’s power purchase agreement. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo is mulling ways to boost a low 49 percent occupancy in its newest residence hall, a problem that has forced the school to dip into reserve funds in order to pay back debt from the building’s construction. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County reported the highest statewide rates for total, violent, and property Index Crimes, as well as rape, aggravated assault, and larceny-theft, according to a the State of Hawaiʻi’s Annual Uniform Crime Report for 2015. Maui Now.

A little-known lavender farm more than 4,000 feet up the slopes of Haleakala is quickly becoming the most productive olive farm on the island and possibly the only commercial tea farm early next year. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Resource Center will be closed temporarily starting Dec. 14 as the county transitions to a new vendor and the permitting, contracting and mobilization processes for the new contract are completed. Garden Island.

The owner of The St. Regis Princeville Resort and the Makai Golf Club on Kauai’s North Shore is selling its Starwood Hotels and Resorts-managed property, the master developer of the Princeville at Hanalei confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Rep. Tsuji dies of heart attack, Honolulu taxpayers to foot police chief's $150k legal bill, education administrators to get raises, school tax scuttled along rail line, windows to be barred at state mental hospital, tainted seaweed sold on Mainland and Tokyo, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rep. Clift Tsuji © 2016 All Hawaii News

State Rep. Clift Tsuji, a former disc jockey, banker and Big Island state lawmaker known for his warm personality and his deep, booming radio voice, died suddenly Tuesday at the Queen’s Medical Center after suffering a heart attack. He was 75. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Clift Tsuji died Tuesday at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, the House of Representatives said in a statement. He was 75. Tsuji’s son, Ryan Kalei Tsuji, said his father suffered a heart attack on Saturday, and died during heart surgery. Tribune-Herald.

Tsuji, Ige

Governor’s statement on the passing of Rep. Clift Tsuji.

Clift Tsuji, the longtime state representative for Hilo, passed away at the Queen’s Medical Center on Oahu today. He was 75. Big Island Video News.

State Rep. Clift Tsuji died Tuesday at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu. The Big Island lawmaker was 75. Civil Beat.

Big Island State Representative Clift Tsuji has died, according to family members. He was 75. KITV.
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Maui County state Rep. Joe Souki has retained his post as speaker of the House for the 2017 legislative session that gets under way in January, according to a news release from the House on Monday. Maui News.

The Board of Education approved merit-based raises averaging 3.5 percent Tuesday for nearly two dozen senior Department of Education executives. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Failed To Take Steps Meant To Prevent Day Care Deaths. State officials promised lawmakers they’d draft new rules to protect infants, but more than three years later nothing’s changed. Civil Beat.

State looks to install bars over windows at Hawaii State Hospital. KHON2.

Ed Case, a former congressman who is the senior vice president and chief legal officer of Outrigger Enterprises Group, has joined the board of directors of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Pacific Business News.

James Takushi, who headed the state’s personnel and human resources departments under three Hawaii governors and was a one-time key lieutenant for Democratic Party of Hawaii , died Monday at his Alewa home, his family said in a release. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A Honolulu City Council committee gave preliminary approval Tuesday for up to $150,000 to hire three sets of outside attorneys to represent Police Chief Louis Kea­loha in four cases against him and the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

City attorneys asked a federal judge Tuesday to reject a request for a deposition of Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha in a lawsuit over the police killing of Sheldon Haleck, a military veteran who died in front of Iolani Palace last year. Civil Beat.

Responding to what was described as overwhelming community responses, the Honolulu Police Department said Tuesday that it has added more offenses, including violent ones, to its online crime mapping site. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department announced today that its Crime Mapping Website is fully operational, including data on violent crimes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Of the 16,000 arrests made on Oahu last year, 61 percent involved people who were severely mentally ill or abusing drugs, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu ranks among the worst in the nation when it comes to dealing with the homeless, that's according to a new national report. KITV.

Citing concerns about hindering affordable-housing developments, a Board of Education committee Tuesday tabled a proposal that called for charging builders of new homes more than $9,000 per unit to help pay for new schools in urban Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Kahuku sea asparagus and ogo that may be tainted with salmonella went to retailers and farmers’ markets across Hawaii as well as customers as far as Washington state and Tokyo. Star-Advertiser.

There will be more time to comment on a California wind-energy developer’s proposed $90 million-plus wind farm on Oahu’s North Shore. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

More than two years after the County Council approved a public access trail as a condition of allowing development of a luxury subdivision, council members learned Tuesday the deal is not yet finalized. West Hawaii Today.

The state Land Board is urging the state Supreme Court to quickly dismiss an appeal by opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Associated Press.

Faith-based groups rally for West Hawaii summit to fight homelessness. West Hawaii Today.

Enrollment at Hawaii Community College - Palamanui has grown significantly after one full school year on the new campus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Gov. David Ige signed an extension to the emergency proclamation originally signed on Sept. 16, to provide relief for disaster damages, losses and suffering following September’s heavy rains and flooding on Maui. Maui Watch.

There’s new movement on plans to restore the Old Maui High School. Hawaii Public Radio.

New program seeks to bring CPR training to county’s high schools. Maui News.

Kauai

An update on the auction and relocation of the police substation at Kapaa Beach Park will be discussed during the Kauai County Council meeting today. Garden Island.

Michael Fleiss, creator of the hit ABC television series “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette,” is the buyer of Julia Roberts’ Hawaii oceanfront estate, Pacific Business News has learned.

Self-governance advanced for Native Hawaiians, road-use charge may replace gas tax, Maui battles coqui frog, crime drops at UH Manoa, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Department of the Interior hearings, file photo © 2016 All Hawaii News

In what’s being described by some as a historic step toward Native Hawaiian self-governance, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced Friday that it has finalized “a pathway” that would formally recognize such an entity. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of the Interior announced Friday that it finalized a rule for creating a government-to-government relationship with Native Hawaiians — if they choose to form their own government and if they want such ties. Associated Press.

State’s child abuse letters may violate law. Star-Advertiser.

The state may do away with gas taxes and replace them with a road use charge, depending on the results of a proposed statewide trial program. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s longline fishermen are back at sea in search of more ahi after extending their quota limit through an agreement with the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Ron Taketa’s term on the Honolulu Police Commission expired nine months ago, yet Mayor Kirk Caldwell has yet to reappoint or replace him. Civil Beat.

The number of reported sex offenses, motor vehicle thefts and liquor law violations at the University of Hawaii at Manoa declined in 2015 from the previous year while the number of drug-related violations on campus significantly increased. Star-Advertiser.

The number of homeless military veterans on Oahu fell 44 percent between January and August, while the number of veterans becoming homeless each month also shows an encouraging decline. Star-Advertiser.

All areas on Oahu are being considered for a new facility that would replace the aging and overcrowding current Oahu Community Correctional Center in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kalihi, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

A class-action lawsuit filed in federal court last month alleges that 72 Oahu homeowner associations and two law firms acting as their agents unlawfully foreclosed on 160 homes beginning in September 2010. Star-Advertiser.

The city is rethinking its policy on Kalakaua Avenue street closures in Waikiki in response to complaints that some past events haven’t merited disruptions to the nation’s fifth-most lucrative retail street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Profanity-Laced Video Shows Mayor Partying Hard At Conference Party. The mayor of Hawaii County, who is accused of buying booze and other items with taxpayer money, appears to be heavily intoxicated.  Civil Beat.

Guests in a hospitality room at the Hawaii Congress of Planning Officials Conference on Kauai got an impromptu earful they hadn’t planned on — courtesy of Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi. Tribune-Herald.

Several dozen people packed into a room at the Hawaii Community College Palamanui Campus Saturday to discuss new proposals aimed at reducing crowds at popular manta ray viewing sites in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Invasive Species Committee is tripling to quadrupling resources and working crews devoted to eradicating coqui frogs from the heavily infested Maliko Gulch area over the next five years, officials said. Maui News.

Two weeks after a powerful rainstorm forced the Wailuku River to jump its banks and fill up his home with mud and debris, Wayne Wong remains on edge, his ravaged dwelling now sitting dangerously close to a newly widened riverbed.  Star-Advertiser.

More than 500 people participated in the 12th Annual Town Clean Up in Lahaina over the weekend, according to event organizers. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has begun the third year of testing an experimental laser system to prevent endangered seabirds from colliding with power lines. Garden Island.

The trial for a man accused of beating a monk seal has been continued. Garden Island.

The private access road to Mahaulepu Beach will be closed to the public starting Monday at the recommendation of the state Department of Health, and some locals are questioning the motives. Garden Island.

Russian spy ship watching RIMPAC war games, Ige signs murder, rape crime bills, Honolulu City Council reorg fails, affordable housing breaks on Honolulu and Kauai, solar industry falters, homeless turnaround plan a success, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Ige signs Joel's Law, courtesy governor's office

Gov. David Ige on Wednesday signed “Joel’s Law,” or Act 214, an amendment to the state’s narrow first-degree murder law adding anyone who knowingly causes a death while restraining or holding a person for ransom or reward, or using a person as a shield or hostage. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige signed a bill into law Wednesday that broadens the offense of first-degree murder. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige signed a bill into law that broadens the offense of first degree murder. Previously, the offense has been narrowly defined and limited to rare cases in which there are multiple victims, the victim is killed by a hired killer or the victim was under the specific protection of the courts or law enforcement system. Press release.

A parent of a child conceived through rape in Hawaii could lose parental rights if they’re accused of sexual assault. Gov. David Ige signed a bill today which aims to deprive rapists of parental rights. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige on Tuesday signed into law a bill requiring insurers cover a year’s worth of birth control at one time. The signing of Senate Bill 2319, which the governor’s office touted as “a groundbreaking bill that will dramatically expand access to birth control in Hawaii,” makes Hawaii the first state in the nation to require all public and private insurance providers to cover 12 months of birth control at a time, meaning that women will only have to pick up their prescription once a year. West Hawaii Today.

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The U.S. Navy has confirmed that a Russian spy ship has been stationed in international waters off Hawaii, but says its presence is not affecting military exercises. Associated Press.

State senators are taking their first legal steps in a fight with the governor over a Public Utilities Commission appointment. KHON2.

After unexpectedly high construction bids delayed the state’s efforts to cool 1,000 classrooms before 2017, the Hawaii Department of Education is seeking new bids for the project, according to a July newsletter. Civil Beat.

More than 1,500 scientists from around the world have signed a letter urging President Obama to use his executive authority to expand Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Civil Beat.

A large majority of Hawaii solar energy industry companies are reporting job losses. Star-Advertiser.

Islandwide Solar is in the midst of a “restructuring,” central to which is the liquidation of assets totaling more than $800,000 in wholesale value from the company’s operations on Hawaii Island, Kauai and Oahu. West Hawaii Today.

Friends In High Places Helped HECO Tighten Its Grip On Hawaii. The federal government’s takeover of Hawaii proved extremely fortuitous for Hawaiian Electric. So was the involvement of leading local. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council green-lighted a bill Wednesday that waives building permit and sewer hookup fees for homeowners who want to build accessory dwelling units — secondary rental units on their property. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday confirmed John Henry Felix to a seat on the board of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Pacific Business News.

A move to oust Honolulu City Councilman Ikaika Anderson as Council vice chairman was shelved just before a vote on the maneuver was to happen Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council shelved a resolution today to reorganize its committee leadership positions. But they did pass a few measures relating to the Rail Transit Project. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Honolulu City Council voted Wednesday to shelve a bill that would have given the position of vice chair to Joey Manahan from Kalihi instead of Ikaika Anderson from Waimanalo. Civil Beat.

Kakaako’s state-owned Mauka and Makai Gateway parks, home to a persistent group of homeless encampments, are now closed indefinitely for repairs and a cleanup. Star-Advertiser.

Housing First rental units didn’t work out for five homeless people out of 166 placed in the program on Oahu last year. Star-Advertiser.

A future wave of new homes in Kakaako could be subject to dramatically different affordable-housing rules based on a report presented Wednesday to the state agency governing development in the area. Star-Advertiser.

Sewage Spill Closes Kewalo Basin. The Hawaii Department of Health advises the public to stay clear of the area because it may have been affected by a sewage spill over the Fourth of July weekend. Civil Beat.

Two Honolulu police officers have been charged in the past week with felonies — one for allegedly assaulting a truck driver during a road rage incident and another, now retired, for allegedly shooting a bartender in a mishap. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The envisioned Puna Makai Alternate Route, or PMAR, has become a political issue in the primary election. Big Island Video News.

Senior’s striptease a hit on TV: Hilo woman, 90, competes on ‘America’s Got Talent’ Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Paia Courtyard, a proposed mixed-use retail, office and residential project along with senior living apartments, is now on its way to seek further county approvals. Maui News.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources officers issued 46 criminal citations and impounded 10 off-road motorcycles as evidence after observing illegal dirt biking Sunday in the Kula Forest Reserve. Maui News.

A live snake was captured by a Maui coffee farm worker on Friday afternoon, July 1, 2016. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council unanimously voted Wednesday to give a tax break to people who rent their homes as long-term affordable housing. Garden Island.

Citing the need to get input from the administration, the Kauai County Council unanimously voted Wednesday to refer to committee a bill that would allow additional rental units in the Lihue Planning District. Garden Island.

Shuttle systems, parking reservations, and rearranging the layout of the welcome buildings are all part of the newly released comprehensive conservation plan for the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Garden Island.

Grand jury indicts Hawaii County mayor, millions in federal aid for displaced sugar workers, Legislature kill gas tax hike, charter amendment could strengthen Honolulu Police Commission, Kauai council nixes county employee raises, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi in happier times © 2016 All Hawaii News

An attorney for Mayor Billy Kenoi said the county’s embattled chief executive won’t resign. A Hilo grand jury on Wednesday indicted Kenoi with two counts of second-degree theft, two counts of third-degree theft, three counts of tampering with a government record, plus making a false statement under oath. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi gave a half hour speech to the local business community in Hilo, as a grand jury indicted him for his alleged misuse of a government issued purchase card between 2011 and 2015. Big Island Video News.

A Hawai‘i County grand jury has indicted Mayor Billy Kenoi on seven different counts stemming from the misuse of his county issued purchasing card. Hawaii Public Radio.

A grand jury indicted Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi on theft charges Wednesday in connection with misuse of his county-issued purchasing card. Star-Advertiser.

After months of investigation, a 16-member grand jury indicted Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi on theft charges Wednesday in connection with his alleged misuse of a government credit card. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi has been indicted by a grand jury. The charges come after a nearly-year-long criminal investigation by the attorney general’s office over Kenoi’s improper use of a county-issued credit card, or pCard. KHON2.

The state Attorney General’s office said Wednesday that a Big Island  grand jury has indicted Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi. Civil Beat.

A grand injury has indicted Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi on two counts of felony theft and other charges, the state attorney general's office said Wednesday. Associated Press.

Hawaii island’s homegrown mayor from Kalapana and Hilo seemed on an unlikely path to a bright future in island politics. Instead, two-term Mayor Billy Kenoi — a former Honolulu deputy public defender and disciple of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye — must answer to felony, misdemeanor and petty misdemeanor charges from his time in office from 2011 to 2015. Star-Advertiser.

Many political insiders thought one day Billy Kenoi's career would take him to the governor's mansion. That future is still up in the air as some say his political career is over, but others say he could make a comeback. Hawaii News Now.

Following months of controversy hanging over Mayor Billy Kenoi, Hawaii island officials expressed shock and dismay that the hammer finally came down Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The mood on the Big Island on Wednesday is one of shock and sadness. KHON2.

Those who worked with Mayor Billy Kenoi are trying to understand how it all came to this. KHON2.

===================================

Despite a full-court press lobbying effort by Gov. David Ige’s administration, the proposed gas tax, weight tax and vehicle registration fee increases it proposed may be dead for the year. Star-Advertiser.

The House Transportation Committee on Wednesday indefinitely deferred a bill that would have increased taxes and fees on motor vehicles and fuel. Civil Beat.

Hawaii may soon implement what’s become standard practice elsewhere in the country — mandatory unannounced inspections of state-licensed care facilities for the elderly and disabled. Civil Beat.

A measure that would have required drivers working for transportation network companies such as Uber and Lyft to carry a certain level of insurance was killed by the House Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee on Wednesday. Civil Beat.

A bill that would ensure enforcement of crime victims’ rights as an amendment to the state Constitution remains alive at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii Senate panel deadlocked 3-to-3 Wednesday over a controversial bill that sought to trim retirement benefits for judges, effectively killing the measure. Civil Beat.

Despite the fact that Hawaii has two official languages, only one of them is offered on voters’ ballots. English and Hawaiian are the state’s official languages, and lawmakers are pushing a bill to offer both on ballots. Right now, English, Japanese, Cantonese and Ilocano must be offered on ballots in some counties. Associated Press.

Union membership has declined nearly 10 percent in Hawaii since 1989, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But despite this downward trend, the BLS reports that Hawaii still has the second-highest percentage of union membership in the nation behind New York. Civil Beat.

Ryan Kalei Tsuji Leaves Government. The aide to Gov. Ige will leave his post at the end of the month to focus on his new video production company. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Oahu voters will have the chance to toughen up the Honolulu Police Commission in light of numerous scandals gripping the Police Department, including a federal investigation of Chief Louis Kealoha. Civil Beat.

Supporters and staff of Wahiawa General Hospital turned out in force Wednesday to ask lawmakers to fund a $3 million bailout of the private, nonprofit facility, which has been struggling to stay afloat during the past nine years of increasing financial strains. Star-Advertiser.

Supporters turned out in force at the state Capitol Wednesday to ask lawmakers to approve of a resolution requesting the governor and the Legislature to provide emergency financial assistance to Wahiawa General Hospital. Civil Beat.

Dozens rallied at the State Capitol Wednesday in support of Wahiawa General Hospital as financial troubles threaten to shut it down. KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric Co. President and CEO Alan Oshima said the electric utility will meet with the company looking to buy three canceled solar farms on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply has struck a $33 million deal with NORESCO, one of the largest energy services companies in the United States, that allows the water agency to implement energy efficiency, renewable energy and operational improvements while guaranteeing enough savings over the next 20 years to pay for the contract, the agency said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

It will be business as usual at Sheraton Kona Resort Spa at Keauhou Bay amid a proposed merger between the hotel’s owner, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, and Marriott International. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hundreds of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. workers will receive millions of dollars in federal funding as the sugar plantation ends its operations, the U.S. Department of Labor announced Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The latest vision to alleviate Wailuku Town's parking problem is a multipurpose layout akin to San Francisco's Union Square, members of the Maui Redevelopment Agency said Wednesday. Maui News.

Kaanapali resort managers spoke out against proposed water rate increases, calling them "excessive" and "out of line" during a public hearing held by the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission on Wednesday night at Lahaina Intermediate School. Maui News.

Kauai

Citing bad timing and an uncertainty in the ability to make good on its promises, the Kauai County Council Wednesday voted 5-2 against proposed salary increases for county administers. Garden Island.

Kauai County Councilmember JoAnn Yukimura will host a public workshop titled “How to Have a Voice in County Government” 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 31 at Ha Coffee Bar in Lihue. Garden Island.

When an after-hours medical emergency arises on the rapidly growing North Shore of Kauai, critical minutes can be lost before treatment can be provided. That will soon change. Garden Island.

Hawaii opens largest biodiesel refinery, Hirono agrees to TV debate, groups sue EPA over warships to be sunk during RIMPAC war games, Honolulu councilman gets big fine for vote conflict, Kauai police commission sues for clarity on discipline, industrial complex for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and Hawaii Mayor Billy Kenoi courtesy photo

Hawaii’s newest and largest biodiesel refinery received a rain shower blessing Monday during its grand opening celebrations. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Sen. Dan Inouye was in Keeau on the Big Island today to attend the dedication ceremony for the Pacific Biodiesel plant there. Civil Beat.

Sen. Daniel K. Inouye has good things to say about Billy Kenoi and Mazie Hirono, but not Linda Lingle, and he still has unresolved issues with Ed Case. Tribune-Herald.


U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono on Monday agreed to debate former U.S. Rep. Ed Case on commercial television, a tactical adjustment by Hirono as their Democratic primary for U.S. Senate approaches an important stretch. Star-Advertiser.


Just 40 days to go until the state's primary election - and after months of declining a televised debate, Mazie Hirono announced Monday she will go head-to-head with Democratic opponent, Ed Case. Hawaii News Now.


What made Mazie Hirono change her mind about debating Ed Case? Civil Beat.

Ed Case walks and talks — and also hopes — that he will be the next United States Senator in Washington, DC, representing Hawai‘i constituents for many years to come. Garden Island.

As Rim of the Pacific war games get started, the head of the U.S. Pacific Fleet said the exercise is a "unique training opportunity that strengthens our maritime partnerships." Star-Advertiser.


Groups Sue EPA over RIMPAC Ship Sinking. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Navy is resuming its practice of using old warships for target practice and sinking them in U.S. coastal waters after a nearly two-year moratorium spurred by environmental and cost concerns. Associated Press.

A plan to cut school bus service to nearly 2,400 students statewide is angering several parents and lawmakers, who say families weren't given enough time to plan for the changes. Star-Advertiser.


Civil Beat reported back in November in our Taken For a Ride series that the state has done next to nothing to stop runaway bus costs. Bus companies abruptly stopped competing with each other for contracts, and rather than reject or negotiate bids to hold down costs, district officials shifted the burden to parents, kids and taxpayers. Civil Beat.

It is a measure of how nervous we are about Hawaii's economy that we are fretting over the pending recommendations of the state Tax Review Commission. Star-Advertiser.

A $2.2 million expedition is hoping to finally solve one of America's most enduring mysteries: What exactly happened to famed aviator Amelia Earhart when she disappeared in the South Pacific 75 years ago? Star-Advertiser.

Airlines are expected to fly a record number of seats on their planes to Hawaii this quarter as the state heads toward an unsurpassed year in tourist arrivals. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 3. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Honolulu city Ethics Commission fined City Councilman Nestor Garcia $6,500 — the largest fine imposed on a city official to date — for failing to disclose conflicts of interest stemming from a $5,000-a-month job he took in 2009 as executive director of the Kapolei Chamber of Commerce. Star-Advertiser.

Nestor Garcia

Former Honolulu Council Chairman Nestor Garcia Fined $6,500 - Largest Fine in City's History - for Failure to Disclose Conflicts of Interest on Rail Project. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu Councilman Nestor Garcia, who is winding down his second term and not running for any political office this fall, was fined $6,500 by the Honolulu Ethics Commission for breaking conflict of interest rules and misusing city resources while acting as the executive director of the Kapolei Chamber of Commerce, a side job that pays him $60,000 a year. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilman Nestor Garcia has apologized and paid thousands of dollars in ethics fines for failing to disclose a conflict of interest in 52 votes before the Honolulu City Council. Hawaii News Now.

KHON2 will present a Honolulu Mayoral candidates debate. KHON2.

In the second year of Oahu's nearly total fireworks ban, the number of firecracker permits issued to residents plummeted for this July Fourth celebration. Star-Advertiser.

State regulators have given final approval to Hawaiian Electric Co. for a rate increase that the utility has been collecting from Oahu customers for nearly a year on an interim basis. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Beat toured public restrooms from Ala Moana to Waimanalo — we'll call them the “dirty dozen” — to see what users, from near and far, had to say about them. Their answers weren’t pretty. Civil Beat.


Honolulu will not become the home to a U.S. Patent and Trademark satellite office. Pacific Business News.


Hawaii

Burglaries surge on Big Island. Tribune-Herald.


Kahaluu Bay has been the scene of an ongoing turf-surf battle. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaii Commissioner of Securities Tung Chan issued a Preliminary Order to Cease and Desist and Notice of Right to Hearing against former Maui mayoral candidate Nelson Waikiki Jr., Opunui Water Company, LLC, and Opunui Land and Water Company, LLC. KITV4.

A developer is moving ahead with plans to build an 86-acre, $20 million heavy industrial subdivision near the old Puunene Airport. Maui News.

Only 30 Maui students will lose school bus service, way down from the early estimates of 4,700 Maui County students projected to lose bus service due to financial shortfalls. Maui News.

US Senator Daniel Akaka joined colleagues recently in introducing the Dam Safety Act of 2012. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Police Commission has filed suit against Bernard P. Carvalho, Jr. in his official capacity as mayor of the County of Kaua‘i in 5th Circuit Court to seek a declaratory judgment regarding the County Charter. The suit is asking the court to rule that the police commission has the sole authority to suspend or otherwise discipline the chief of police. Garden Island.


Molokai

There’s good news for those who miss a drink at Hotel Molokai’s Hula Shores bar following a fire two weeks ago that demolished the kitchen. Molokai Dispatch.