Hawaii Supreme Court to hear education tax amendment, woman from same-sex marriage must pay child support, gubernatorial debate set, USS Arizona tours resume, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court building ©2018 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments later this month from the state’s four counties seeking to invalidate a Nov. 6 ballot question asking voters if they want to empower the state to tax investment properties in support of public education. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court took the unusual step Thursday of scheduling oral arguments in connection with a request by the state’s four counties to consider their petition for an order invalidating a constitutional amendment on the Nov. 6 ballot. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday granted a request by the state’s four counties to schedule an oral argument on whether a proposed constitutional amendment on next month’s ballot allowing the Legislature to place a “surcharge” on investment property to support public education is unclear and misleading. Pacific Business News.

Battle over constitutional amendment heats up as state’s highest court to hear challenge. The two sides held dueling news conferences to make their case. Hawaii News Now.

General Election bill: Help schooling, or affect all property tax payers? As it stand now, Hawaii voters will see a question on their general election ballot that will read, "Shall the legislature be authorized to establish, as provided by law, a surcharge on investment real property to be used to support public education?" KITV.

Ad Watch: TV Spots Attack Constitutional Amendment For School Taxes. The Affordable Hawaii Coalition is airing two ads saying the proposal to raise certain property taxes for education is flawed. Civil Beat.

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Woman from same-sex marriage obligated to pay child support, court rules. A woman whose spouse gave birth during their marriage is the legal parent of the child and must pay child support after the couple divorced, the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled today. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates for governor, lieutenant governor to debate live on KHON2. "Hawaii's Debate" on Monday, Oct. 15, at 9 p.m. will feature major gubernatorial candidates, Democrat David Ige and Republican Andria Tupola, and will air live on KHON2 and online at khon2.com. The debate will be moderated by KHON2's Gina Mangieri. KHON2.

Should Public Have More Input On Legislature’s Sexual Harassment Policies? Critics say more people should get to weigh in on developing the new recommendations and the process should be more transparent. Civil Beat.

Opinion: Voters Need To Know Sooner Who’s Paying To Influence Them. The Legislature should require greater transparency for campaign finance reports. Right now candidates don’t have to file them until eight days before the election. Civil Beat.

Far fewer people in Hawaii failed workplace drug tests in the third quarter of 2018, according to results from the largest company in the state doing such work. Star-Advertiser.

Hotel Workers Strike In San Francisco But Stay On The Job In Hawaii. Employees at Marriot-affiliated hotels in the islands have also authorized a walkout over wages and working conditions. Civil Beat.

Behind Hawaiian Airline’s decision to launch its Boston nonstop route. Hawaiian is offering special roundtrip fares of $617 in the main cabin and $1,776 in first class featuring to celebrate the new service, which will be operated by Hawaiian's Airbus A330 aircraft. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Boat tours of Pearl Harbor’s former Battleship Row will resume this morning following a five-day stop after the floating shoreside dock sank at the USS Arizona Memorial visitor center last weekend. Star-Advertiser.

Boat tours around the USS Arizona memorial will resume Friday. On Sunday, park officials announced they were suspending the tours because they discovered the dock used to load visitors onto the boats was sinking. KHON2.

‘He betrayed my trust’: Victim in case against ex-Kamehameha Schools teacher takes the stand. The former teacher and debate coach is charged with five counts of invasion of privacy. Hawaii News Now.

Men gather to raise awareness against violence. “Family secrets, fear and old pain” are a few of the core issues that can develop into violence, said 48-year-old Kaimana Apo, a former perpetrator of domestic violence. Star-Advertiser.

Men of all ages and from a range of backgrounds took time to take a stand against violence. KITV.

Hawaii Island

The disarray at the county Mass Transit Agency continues with the resignation of Administrator Maria “Sole” Aranguiz. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council doesn’t want the Big Island to be known as the hand-me-down island and is asking the Mass Transit Administration to quit accepting used buses from other counties. West Hawaii Today.


No work on restoring Puna Geothermal Venture can begin until at least Dec. 1 after Gov. David Ige extended his emergency proclamation for the fourth time earlier this week. Tribune-Herald.

After sustaining considerable damage from thousands of earthquakes, Highway 11 near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will undergo repairs throughout the weekend and next week. Tribune-Herald.

A new roundtable committee that aims to address noise caused by commercial helicopters is seemingly close to being established, nearly two months after its creation was announced at a community meeting on the issue. Tribune-Herald.

There is no active lava to be seen anywhere on Hawaii Island, at the moment, but that’s not stopping county officials from going forward with a plan to create a lava viewing area in the vicinity of the lower East Rift Zone eruption in Puna. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Carroll laid up since late August, to return Oct. 15. Maui County Council Member Robert Carroll is in “recovery mode” at home in Hana following major surgery in late August. Maui News.

Maui Drive-Thru Voter Registration, Oct. 9. Maui Now.

Kauai

It could be another year before you’ll see the ancient waterways and picturesque landscapes out at Stone Dam, part of the 4.5-mile Wai Koa Loop Trail on Kauai’s North Shore. Garden Island.

Delayed by poor weather, road resurfacing work in Haiku will restart next week, the county Department of Public Works said. Maui News.

Six businesses at Kukui Grove Center are seeking prospective employees at the Career Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday throughout the mall. Garden Island.

Pacific Media Group Expands to Kauai, Acquires KONG Radio Group. Pacific Media Group today announced the purchase of KONG Radio Group on the island of Kauai from Ohana Broadcast Company, LLC–including stations KQNG 93.5 FM, KSHK “Shaka” 103.1 FM, KSRF 95.9 FM and KUAI 570 AM (and 104.5 FM translator). Maui Now.

Teachers rally for education tax, Norwegian Cruise Line promotes post-eruption tourism, Navy responds to Red Hill concerns, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Teachers rally in Honolulu, Hawaii State Teachers Association Facebook photo

On Citizen Initiatives, Courts — Not Voters — Often Have The Last Word. Statewide citizen initiatives aren’t authorized in Hawaii. But each of the four counties allow voters to place proposed laws directly on the ballot. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Guess Which Agency Can Impose A State Tax? As voters weigh ballot question on property taxes, keep in mind that the DOE can collect what’s know as “school impact fees.” Civil Beat.

Commentary: There Are Good Reasons To Support The Education Tax. For one, it could reduce home prices. For another, teachers would be paid more. Civil Beat.

The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii donated $600,000 Monday to a political action committee formed to encourage residents to vote “no” on a ballot measure in the general election that asks whether the state should be empowered to levy property taxes in support of public education. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Chamber of Commerce is donating $600,000 against the amendment that teachers will likely be voting for. KITV.

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Norwegian Cruise Line is offering a bodacious airfare promotion to help stimulate travel to islands in the aftermath of the Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

NCL: The Big Island is ‘open for business’. In the hope of bringing more tourists to the Big Island, Norwegian Cruise Line invited dozens of travel professionals and journalists to an event celebrating the culture and history of the island. Tribune-Herald.

Norwegian Cruise Line launches promotion to encourage travel to Hawaii. Starting Thursday, Oct. 4, the cruise line is offering customers free and reduced airfare from 37 airports across the country and Vancouver, British Columbia, to encourage travel to Hawaii as a new, limited-time Free At Sea offer. KHON2.

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The Office of Elections and County Clerks will be conducting drive-thru voter registration at various locations statewide. KHON2.

Should Psychologists Be Able To Prescribe Drugs? Lawmakers have confronted the question for decades. Proponents say it could boost access to treatment, while opponents warn of opening up patients to subpar care. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Pearl Harbor museums hoping for resumed USS Arizona Memorial access. It’s not been the best of summers for the four public museums and memorials in Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Judge forces changes to private Moiliili road. A state judge kind of played the role of traffic cop Tuesday, allowing a private landowner to finish widening a road that is largely owned by a neighboring property owner but open to public use. Star-Advertiser.

Navy Responds to Concerns Over Red Hill. January will mark five years since 27,000 gallons of fuel leaked out of a massive underground facility at Red Hill and we still don’t know where it all went. Hawaii Public Radio.

Red Hill meeting canceled due to lack of timely notice. An annual meeting called to monitor safety improvements at the Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility near Pearl Harbor has been canceled after Hawaii Department of Health officials failed to provide adequate public notice of the meeting in violation of Hawaii’s Sunshine Law, which governs public meeting requirements for government boards and commissions. Star-Advertiser.

A major change is in the works for Hawaii’s only women’s prison. State lawmakers set aside $40 million to expand the Women’s Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

A vacant 6.8 acre parcel in Kailua in two years could become the first park of its kind in Hawaii — dog friendly and complete with water features, rock climbing apparatus, playground equipment, workout machines and a community garden. Star-Advertiser.

Resurfacing of Kamehameha Highway to begin. Pearl City commuters will face more lane closures in coming weeks but they will have a smoother surface to drive on before the holidays. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Highway in Pearl City will soon go back to 3 lanes each way. For roughly two years, the commute along Kamehameha Highway has been a rough ride for drivers, residents and businesses because of rail construction. Hawaii News Now.

A Filipino evangelist and big supporter of Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte is being accused by a former church follower of running a “child sex ring.” Kristina Angeles came to Hawaii on a religious visa in 2014 working for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s Kingdom of Jesus Christ Church in Waipahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Lava viewing site takes shape.  “Managing expectations” will be key to the success of a public-private partnership to create a lava viewing area now that the lava flow has subsided. West Hawaii Today.

Despite Eruption, No Support For Pahoa, Volcano Business Tax Breaks. Resolution 690 is requesting amnesty for commercially zoned properties in Pahoa and Volcano Village by assessing them the minimum property tax rate. Big Island Video News.

Governor David Ige has signed a fourth supplementary proclamation to support Hawaii Island’s recovery from the Kilauea Volcano’s lava flows and activity. Maui Now.

County will hold off on clearing Highway 137 near Pohoiki. Despite discussion last month about possibly reopening Highway 137 in lower Puna, Mayor Harry Kim said Tuesday that lava cannot be cleared from the highway until more than six months have passed since Kilauea eruption’s pause. Tribune-Herald.

Teachers, others show support for amendment. A number of teachers, along with some students and parents, lined sidewalks in front of Hilo High and Hilo Intermediate schools early Tuesday morning. Tribune-Herald.

Aggressive strain of rapid ohia death detected at Kalopa State Recreation Area. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee continues to mull over what to do with 50 residential lots the county acquired in a legal settlement seven years ago, following a failed attempt earlier this year to sell the lots at a discounted price for affordable housing. Maui News.

Wristbands for Pools of Oheo are considered. Haleakala National Park is considering a wristband reservation system at the Pools of Oheo in the Kipahulu District due to increased visitor traffic and concerns about rockfalls and flash flooding. Maui News.

Wastewater disposal in Maalaea is topic. The Maalaea Village Association will hold a town meeting at 5 p.m. Friday at the Pacific Whale Foundation’s downstairs classroom at the Maui Harbor Shops in Maalaea. Maui News.

Calls to support schools. Maui High School and Maui Waena Intermediate School teachers wave signs along Lono Avenue in Kahului on Tuesday morning in support of a constitutional amendment on taxation on the Nov. 6 ballot that would allow the state Legislature to place a surcharge on investment properties to support public education. Maui News.

Maui Teachers Join Statewide HSTA Walk-in Protest. Frustrated by the lack of funding in Hawaii’s schools and by Hawaii being ranked worst in the country for teachers just last week by a national survey, educators around the state are participating in a walk-in protest today, Tuesday, Oct. 2 from 7 to 8 a.m. Maui Now.

Kauai

Teachers rally for funding. About 40 teachers from Elsie Wilcox Elementary School were joined by about 10 students and one mother in holding signs on Hardy Street Tuesday morning. Garden Island.

Voters can learn about county council and mayoral candidate stances on the environment thanks to nine Kauai organizations posing a few questions. Garden Island.

Anahola group works out new community gym. What was once a place for unsavory riffraff in Anahola is now a gym, where community members are working out together. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature less popular than Trump, Waikiki's King's Village coming down, federal funds coming for disaster relief, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pa'u riders on parade ©2018 All Hawaii News

In Hawaii, People Like Trump Better Than They Like The Legislature. A new survey shows how island residents feel about their elected officials, major institutions and a broad range of issues, from housing to the environment. Civil Beat.

Democratic Gov. David Ige has accepted an invitation from KHON-TV to debate his opponent, Republican nominee and state Rep. Andria Tupola, in the race for governor but Tupola is still mulling whether to participate. Star-Advertiser.

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Counties Ask Supreme Court To Invalidate Ballot Measure For School Funds. They seek a ruling before the Nov. 6 vote on a constitutional amendment that would authorize the state to collect property taxes. Civil Beat.

Hawaii counties ask Supreme Court to invalidate prop tax ballot question. Hawaii’s four counties on Wednesday filed a petition for extraordinary writ with the state Supreme Court, asking justices to invalidate a question on the November ballot for a proposed constitutional amendment allowing the Legislature to place a “surcharge” on investment real estate to support public schools. Pacific Business News.

Counties take property tax ballot question to state Supreme Court. It's an issue on the November ballot that's drawing heated argument from all sides. KHON2.

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Here’s How Mazie Hirono Shaped Her ‘Badass’ Image In Washington. Hawaii’s junior senator is gaining national prominence for her outspoken criticism of Trump and Brett Kavanaugh. Civil Beat.

Federal funds expected soon to help with disaster relief. State and county officials seeking recovery funding for recent disasters got some welcome news Wednesday when the U.S. House of Representatives green-lighted $1.7 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. House approved new legislation Wednesday that would send $1.7 billion to communities plagued by natural disasters nationwide. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii island cumulatively have received more than $120 million in federal aid for disasters since April and more money is on the way, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Lane might not have materialized into the menacing monster storm that was forecast, but all the bluster surrounding it did keep some tourists away. In August, Hawaii hotels reported that occupancy fell nearly 3 percentage points to just over 78 percent, according to a Hawaii Hotel Performance Report recently released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will receive about $700,000 as part of a $148 million nationwide settlement with California ride-sharing service Uber Technologies Inc. due to the ride-hailing company’s delay in reporting hackers had accessed the private information of some 600,000 drivers. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has launched a $500,000 pilot grants program that will provide smaller, one-year grant awards for projects that benefit the Native Hawaiian community and align with the agency’s broad strategic priority areas. Maui Now.

The colorful pa'u riders are one of the most unique features of any parade here in the Hawaiian Islands. Draped in yards of brightly colored fabric and decked in lei, pa'u riders continue an old equestrian tradition. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s trade export program got a $450,000 boost from the U.S. Small Business Administration on Tuesday to continue its support of companies looking to start or grow their exports. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Incoming Waikiki highrise forces closure of landmark, driving out small businesses. Hilton Grand Vacations, a global timeshare company, announced its development plans Wednesday for a 1.05-acre site that currently envelops King’s Village, Hale Waikiki Apartments and Prince Edwards Apartments. Hawaii News Now.

Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. announced today that it has purchased a 1.05-acre site that currently includes King’s Village in Waikiki from BSC KVSC, LLC (“BSC”), with plans to develop a 32-story tower. Star-Advertiser.

The purchase of the King’s Village site in Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations is expected to reinvigorate plans for a new 32-story tower that have been in limbo since at least 2014. Star-Advertiser.

Hilton plans to open a new tower in Waikiki. KHON2.

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Getting residents on board with the new airport rail stop design. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's aiming to get more people on board to support the design for their rail stations. KITV.

‘Chaos At Kamalani’: Why It’s So Hard To Run A Charter School. An innovative new charter school continues to struggle with parent communication and teacher turnover in its second year. Civil Beat.

Kahauiki Village gets a large donation to benefit homeless relief efforts. The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation donated $3 million to the organization responsible for Kahauiki Village, a successful collection of transitional homes for families located near Sand Island. Hawaii News Now.

The United States Office of Naval Research awarded the University of Hawaii West Oahu a $638,100 grant to create a program to support veterans interested in careers and education involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Proposed rules for managing Maunakea lands draw fierce criticism. More than 30 people submitted verbal testimony about the proposed rules, which would prohibit certain activities and items on Maunakea land, require permits for certain other activities on the land and would allow an agent of UH — referred to as “the president’s designee” — to control access to the mountain at his or her discretion. Tribune-Herald.

Council Member Ruggles Puts Queen’s Hospital on Notice. Council member Jen Ruggles released a letter she sent notifying Queen’s Health Systems that it appears they may be violating the rights of protected persons. Big Island Now.

Residents Say Dairy Is Still Polluting Their Small Town. Court filings say discharges of wastewater are continuing even though the company is under an order to stop it. Civil Beat.

Maui

Panel rejects special use permit for Paia Inn. Appeal likely to 2nd Circuit Court. The Maui Planning Commission voted 5-1 Tuesday to reject a hearings officer’s recommendation to grant Paia business owner Michael Baskin a special use permit. Maui News.

The Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday voted 5-1 to reject recommendations from a hearings officer in a report regarding the Paia Inn’s remanded application for a special use permit. Maui Now.

Financing has been obtained for the 118-unit Kaiwahine Village affordable housing project in north Kihei, according to an announcement. Maui News.

Inoperable doors, dormitory stairways in disrepair and a fire alarm system that has not been operational for years at Maui Community Correctional Center have led to $37,490 in fines — the second time this summer that the Maui jail has been cited. Maui News.

Janus lawyer: Too early to tell how unions will be affected by ruling. Attorney appears at Grassroot Institute event at Maui Country Club. Maui News.

Kauai

The state of Hawaii’s pension plan is underfunded, and if the problem isn’t resolved the crisis could get worse. That’s what Joseph Kent, vice president of research at the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, told the Kauai County Council Wednesday as he presented a report he authored about the issue. Garden Island.

Sides split on tree removal. Red paint on ironwood trees along Kauai’s Eastside Waipouli coastline is marking the way for a new beach area and eventual coastal path for the up-and-coming Coconut Beach Resort. Garden Island.

$13.5M Kilauea estate for sale. A favorite getaway for celebrities and their families for the last decade, the Kilauea home of the late architect Elliott Rosenblum and his partner, pediatrician Dr. Mark Nesselson, is on the market for $13.5 million with Heather Ford of Elite Pacific Properties. Garden Island.

Hawaii timeshares popular, Honolulu panel rejects Caldwell's vacation rental bills, Coco Palms back on track, Kakaako business fights rail condemnation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hyatt Regency Maui timeshares, courtesy photo

Hawaii timeshare occupancy increased 1.6 percentage points to 91.5 percent during the second quarter of 2018, about 11 percentage points higher than hotel occupancy during the same three-month period. Pacific Business News.

An April flood on Kauai and an erupting volcano during May and June on the Big Island didn’t seem to deter timeshare visitors to Hawaii, according to a state report released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Timeshare properties in the Hawaiian Islands reported an average occupancy rate of 91.5 percent (plus 1.6 percentage points) in the second quarter of 2018, according to the Hawaii Timeshare Quarterly Report: April-June 2018, issued Wednesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

Why Aren’t There More Women Judges In Hawaii? Despite calls for more women to seek judgeships, their numbers lag in applications and appointments. Civil Beat.

#BeingMicronesian in Hawaii Means Lots Of Online Hate. Even though the islands are made up of diverse languages and cultures, “Micronesians” has become a catch-all term in Hawaii for immigrants from Palau, the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia who came here through treaties known as the Compacts of Free Association. Civil Beat.

Oahu

After more than eight hours of divided testimony spread across two days, the Honolulu Planning Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to reject Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposed short-term vacation rental bill. Star-Advertiser.

City Council advances a bill to let neighborhoods restrict parking. A bill that won tentative approval from the City Council Budget Committee on Wednesday would allow a group of neighbors to petition for a restricted parking zone. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu rail authority files condemnation suit against Kakaako business. But the company is fighting back, saying the rail authority is trying to force them to accept a low-ball offer for their land. Hawaii News Now.

Permanent home within reach for tenants of Waianae encampment. Leaders of one of the state's largest homeless encampments say they are getting ready to move. Hawaii News Now.

Candidates Vying to Represent Waikiki, Kakaako and Ala Moana at the State Legislature. Only one in three races for the Hawaii State Senate and House of Representatives are being contested by Republicans. Hawaii Public Radio.

The cost of a $3.2 million landslide mitigation project in Mililani is being placed on the backs of residents — many of whom don’t live near the two eroding hillsides in question. Civil Beat.

Shidler alumnus establishes $100,000 endowment for student leader. University of Hawaii at Manoa Shidler College of Business alumnus Christopher Helm and wife, Debra, have established a $100,000 endowment through the Helm Family Trust for the David Bess Leadership Award. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu airport considered one of the worst in the country. That's according to J.D. Power's annual North America Airport Satisfaction Study, released Wednesday. KHON2.

Canine team goes to work at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. A dedicated team is working daily to make sure all passengers are screened for explosives and explosive materials at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

TSA highlights working canines at airport security operations. KITV.

Honolulu police plan to increase enforcement on roadways in the wake of two separate pedestrian fatalities that occurred within minutes of one another Tuesday night. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

$35M Hurricane Lane hits council budget plans. Two Kona road projects and an express Kona-Hilo bus route face delays because of new expenses created by Hurricane Lane. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council bill that would have required local government to be “accurate and factual” was taken off the table on Wednesday. Big Island Video News.

State looks for alternative boat ramp sites. The fate of the Pohoiki boat ramp is uncertain after the Kilauea volcano eruption in lower Puna. Tribune-Herald.

$96M Keahuolu Courthouse taking shape. The Keahuolu Courthouse is taking shape, but Kona’s first centralized judiciary complex remains about a year away from the gavel striking the block. West Hawaii Today.

Flood Insurance Meetings to Be Held in Hilo, Kona. Big Island Now.

A supervisor for BEI Hawaii in Hilo who suffered lung injuries as a result of a chlorine gas leak at the facility two years ago is suing the county and state for negligence, claiming response to the leak was inadequate. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members are asking for $3 million to help repair a road destroyed during Tropical Storm Lane's heavy rains. Hawaii News Now.

Residents are still unhappy with Piilani Promenade plans. Developer offers ‘snapshot’ of project at community meeting. Maui News.

A former Maui County Public Works Department supervisor was ordered to pay a $1,500 fine after he pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor theft charge involving a subordinate employee’s unrecorded vacation time. Maui News.

Maui seems to be getting a handle on its homeless population, but finding affordable rentals is still the main problem, whether you’re on the street yet or not.  A recent study concluded Maui will need 14,000 more housing units by 2025. Hawaii Public Radio.

A week after Olivia, West Maui is still cleaning up — and assessing the damage. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Developers: Coco Palms project back on track. Developer Tyler Greene said Wednesday that with legal disputes behind them, the project to rebuild the Coco Palms Resort is moving forward with an estimated completion date of late next year. Garden Island.

County calls for DOE audit. The proposed constitutional amendment that would add a surcharge on investment real property to fund public education in Hawaii if approved by voters Nov. 6 would have dire consequences, say Maui County leaders. Garden Island.

Kauai dentist sentenced for insurance fraud. State Circuit Judge Kathleen Watanabe sentenced Dr. Terry Allen to a four-year term of deferral and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $20,878.86 to Hawaii Medical Services Association. KHON2.

Sharing resources for health. Students descended on Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall for the county’s annual Health and Wellness Fair. More than 40 vendors provided information and premium giveaways to guests. Garden Island.

Long lines, limited parking expected as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopens Saturday, 15% of Hawaii young men not registered with Selective Service, Hawaii County scales down special session emergency fund request, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Map of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopening plan

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on track to open Saturday at 10 a.m., with free admission on that day, the National Park Service said today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park preps for reopening. While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopens Saturday, visitors might find it hard to park. Tribune-Herald.

The reopening of areas in the park, which go into effect by 10:00 a.m. on September 22, are listed in a new map published by the National Park Service. Big Island Video News.

This Saturday will mark a new beginning for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. More than 130 days since explosions, ash plumes and earthquakes forced it to close, the park is set to reopen. KITV.

HVNP Reopening, Expect Limited Parking & Long Lines. Big Island Now.

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State Department of Education Proposes Increases For Executive-Level Salaries. The proposed raises would be at slightly lower percentages than DOE employees represented by unions. Overall, the executive-level increases would shift the salary range for complex area superintendents to $135,000-$170,000 from $125,000-$163,589. Pay for the seven assistant superintendents would increase to $145,000-$175,000 from $143,023-$167,353. The annual salary for the deputy superintendent — who is second in command to the school superintendent — would increase to a range of $155,000-$180,000 from $143,023-$167,353. Civil Beat.

Hawaii income stats climb, but so does the cost of living. Hawaii household and family incomes rose again last year to remain among the highest in the nation, according to the latest information from the U.S. Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

Fifteen percent of Hawaii’s young men aren't registered with the U.S. Selective Service System, which means they might not be eligible for major federal benefits. Hawaii News Now.

Innovative New Program Plugs Some Holes In Mental Health Care System. A new network of providers and social workers is teaming up to get mental health patients the treatment they need. Civil Beat.

Chairman’s Death Comes At Crucial Time For Pacific Fishery Council. Edwin Ebisui was among the leaders pushing the Trump administration to reopen restricted waters to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

Several Hawaii banks are enacting financial assistance programs for customers impacted by the heavy rains and flooding brought on by Tropical Storm Olivia last week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Tax-Free Trust named Cathy Luke and Randy Perreira to its board in anticipation of the retirement of current trustees Richard Humphreys and Russell Okata. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Rail transit: Town-bound tension piles up. Some business operators and residents who attended a Monday night briefing on the arrival of rail construction in the Kalihi-­to-Ala Moana region left feeling anxious about the future. Star-Advertiser.

Water utility offers breaks for affordable housing builders. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply has agreed to offer those who build affordable housing units on Oahu a break on BWS charges in an effort to spur construction. Star-Advertiser.

New proposal could pave the way for more restricted parking zones in Honolulu. It would require residents living in the area to have a placard proving they live there. The bill specifically mentions areas near universities and hospitals. KHON2.

Two new projects geared at pedestrians are heading to the Waikiki and Ala Moana areas. Recently revived plans to build a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Ala Wai Canal, linking Waikiki to McCully, are moving forward. KHON2.

Waimanalo residents concerned about pollution of Kaupo Beach. A homeless encampment tucked away downhill on the makai side of Kalanianaole Highway is causing some in the Waimanalo community to push for action. KITV.

Waikiki Shell officially named after concert promoter Tom Moffatt. A special renaming ceremony was held Sunday at the venue, where the beloved local personality and concert promoter known simply as "Uncle Tom" put on a host of big shows. Hawaii News Now.

Koko Nuts Koalition: We Will Help Repair Koko Head Trail. The City and County of Honolulu is considering ways to develop partnerships to refurbish and maintain the iconic Koko Head Trail. Hawaii Public Radio.

A rental housing tower in downtown Kapolei for seniors with low incomes is set to start construction after several years of planning. Star-Advertiser.

Two Oahu neighborhoods with single-family home median prices below the record islandwide median of $810,000 saw increases in sales of more than 25 percent in August, according to a report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Based on feedback from lawmakers, county scales down lava recovery wish list. A decision on a whether there will be a special session of the state Legislature to consider disaster relief funding appropriation, especially for Puna communities impacted by lava from Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone eruption, needs to be made soon. Tribune-Herald.

The group of Hawaii Island residents standing post at the entrance to Mauna Kea Access Road are on the verge of being kicked out. KITV.

Beneficiaries spoke out about the problems plaguing the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands during a community meeting held Monday night in Keaukaha. Big Island Video News.

Pohoiki Boat Ramp Could Be Used Again. The Hawaii Department of Land and Resources reports that a damage assessment of the formerly popular Pohoiki Boat Ramp area, along the lower Puna coast, shows no damage to the ramp itself. However, an estimated 14,000 cubic yards of black sand, deposited during the recent East Rift Zone eruption, completely rings and blocks the entrance to the small boat ramp. Big Island Now.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has produced a video update on two, transformed Puna beach parks following the eruption of Kilauea. Big Island Video News.

A village of tiny homes — built by the community — welcomes first lava evacuees. Several Puna families who have spent months living in an eruption evacuee shelter moved into places of their own on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Pahoa shelter closes leaving legacy of help, complaints. Pahoa’s emergency evacuation center opened in a hurry at 4:15 p.m. May 3 and over the next 136 days offered a lifeline to people forced from their homes by the Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Council to discuss call for audit of DOE. Resolution part of opposition to proposed school property tax ballot amendment. Maui News.

Last ex-officer in bribery scheme sentenced. Unlike other defendants, Ahuna does not receive jail time. Maui News.

The US Department of Health and Human Services will award $1,000,000 in federal funding to Maui Family Support Services to support the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki Project. Maui Now.

Why your television isn't getting a signal on Maui. We're told a special fiber cable that provides OTA transmission to Maui is no longer functioning. The line feeds all of the broadcasters transmitters on Maui.  KHON2.

Masons add another course of cinderblocks to the South Maui Community Park Recreation Center earlier this month. The 34,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to be finished by the end of next March. Maui News.

Maui County currently has a shortage of 141 doctors, up slightly from the 139 in 2017, according to a recent Hawaii physician workforce survey by the University of Hawaii. Maui News.

A Brown Water Advisory has been issued for waters from Waihee to Kahului in Central Maui and Honokohau to the Honua Kai property in West Maui. Maui Now.

Old Makena Hotel coming down piece by piece. Maui News.

Kauai

Teachers’ union stands behind amendment. In November’s general election, voters will consider a constitutional amendment that would give the Legislature the authority to establish a surcharge on investment real property to support public education. Garden Island.

A meeting of County of Kauai committees is set for 8:30 a.m. today. Garden Island.

Kauai is gearing up to build the next double-hulled voyaging canoe on Hawaii and now the organization heading up the project has five acres in Kalihiwai to do it. Garden Island.

Islands still getting drenched by Olivia remnants, super PACs gear up for education tax fight, Honolulu City Council kills bus fare hike, ethics board punts honesty bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Flooded Maui road PC: Hawaii Department of Transportation

Olivia made a rare double landfall over west Maui and Lanai as a tropical storm on Wednesday, triggering torrential rains and significant flooding in some areas. That brought down trees, closed roads and knocked out power to thousands. Hawaii News Now.

Isles appear to dodge major damage from Olivia. Tropical Storm Olivia blew through the Hawaiian Islands Wednesday but not before leaving a soggy trail of fallen trees, swollen streams, landslides and power outages.  Star-Advertiser.

Trump signs disaster declaration for Hawaii as weakened Olivia dumps rain on Islands. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige’s request for a Presidential Disaster Declaration for Tropical Storm Olivia has been granted, one day after the request was submitted. Maui Now.

Here are all the active weather alerts associated with Olivia. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County under flash flood warning; flash flood watch remains in effect for state. Star-Advertiser.

Things are slowly returning to normal now that Tropical Storm Olivia is moving away from the state. Hawaii News Now.

All public schools open Thursday except Kilohana Elementary on Molokai. KHON2.

The U.S. Postal Service announced that all Post Offices across the state will be open and mail will be delivered, weather and local conditions permitting, on Thursday, Sept 13. KITV.

Tropical Storm Olivia dropped almost 8 inches of rain on a part of Maui and lashed the Lanai airport with 51 mph wind gusts Wednesday, while the Big Island dodged a bullet. Tribune-Herald.

As Maui County weathered winds that wrenched trees from the ground and rains that raised the rivers Wednesday afternoon, people on Kauai watched the skies. Garden Island.

It’s shaping up to be an unpredictable hurricane season in Hawaii, with cyclones approaching from multiple directions — and there’s still six weeks left until it comes to a close on Nov. 30. Star-Advertiser.

Shelters offer storm cover for the few who turned up. There were a total of 75 people across 15 evacuation centers on Oahu, Hawaii island and Maui County as of Wednesday morning, according to the Red Cross. Star-Advertiser.

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Political action committees that can raise unlimited funds already have formed to try to persuade voters in the debate over whether to amend the Hawaii Constitution in November to allow the state to tax investment property to help fund public education. Star-Advertiser.

More than 80 candidates running for elected office this year have been fined by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission for violating campaign laws. Star-Advertiser.

Bigger Fines Considered To Send Campaign Lawbreakers A Message. Candidates and political organizations may have to start paying more for filing their spending reports late or inaccurately. Civil Beat.

‘Fragile Aloha’: Why Hawaii’s Last Constitutional Convention Was Important. Delegates quickly broke into factions in 1978, but they ultimately made breakthroughs on Native Hawaiian issues. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council rejects proposed bus, van hikes. Honolulu City Council members Wednesday shot down a plan by Mayor Kirk Caldwell to raise TheBus and TheHandi-Van fares starting Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to dramatically increase the fines against those who flout city building codes won final approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ethics Board punts on honesty policy. Honesty may be said to be the best policy, but it’s not a policy the County Council, or the Board of Ethics, seems eager to see set in law. West Hawaii Today.

On Tuesday, the Hawaii County Board of Ethics reviewed a County Council bill that would require local government to be “accurate and factual.” Big Island Video News.

An autopsy on a 51-year-old tour guide who collapsed and died while leading a lava tour hike near Kalapana on Feb. 1 found the man’s death was accidental. The report found the immediate cause of death for Sean King was “thermal injuries and volcanic fume exposure.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

'We're very, very fortunate.' Maui's mayor optimistic despite damage from Olivia. While much of the rain from Olivia has moved off, the focus now is dealing with the damage left behind. KHON2.

VIDEO: Homes, cars swept away in Honokohau Valley flood. Maui News.

Tropical Storm Olivia made history Wednesday as the first such storm to make landfall on Maui in modern times. Thankfully for residents and visitors on the Valley Isle, it was a brief and not particularly hard landing. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rains and strong winds from Tropical Storm Olivia pummeled Maui County on Wednesday, washing away homes, bringing down trees and utility poles, and triggering widespread power outages. Hawaii News Now.

Olivia Maui Photos: Historic Landfall Made on Maui and Lanai. Maui Now.

Despite concerns about water, wildfires and access to the Lahaina Pali Trail, the Maui Planning Commission gave a nod Tuesday to advance a 21-lot Maalaea agricultural subdivision. Maui News.

Kauai

Kalalau Trail closure redirects visitors elsewhere on Kauai. With Kee Beach and the Kalalau Trail closed, there are a few thousand tourists every day looking for somewhere else to go. Garden Island.

Hurricane Olivia approaches, education tax question to stay on ballot, first ID of Korean war remains anticipated, Navy scales down Red Hill fuel tank plans, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Olivia 4:30 a.m. Monday  NOAA

Tropical storm warning issued as Olivia nears islands. Hurricane Olivia continues on a path toward the Hawaiian Islands and has prompted a tropical storm warning for Hawaii and Maui counties. Star-Advertiser.

At 5 a.m. Monday, forecasters said Olivia remained a Category 1 hurricane, with sustained winds of 85 miles per hour. Hawaii News Now.

Maximum sustained winds are near 85 mph with higher gusts. Little change in strength is forecast today, with slight weakening starting tonight and continuing through Tuesday. However, Olivia is forecast to be a strong tropical storm when it reaches the Hawaiian Islands. KHON2.

On the forecast track, Olivia will be approaching the main Hawaiian islands later Tuesday or Tuesday night. KITV.

Governor signs emergency proclamation as Olivia heads toward Hawaii. KHON2.

An emergency proclamation was signed by Gov. David Ige Sunday in preparation of potential impacts from Hurricane Olivia, which is expected to approach the state as a tropical storm this week. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige signed an emergency proclamation that will provide relief for disaster damages, losses and suffering caused by Hurricane Olivia. KITV.

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A judge has ruled against a motion by Hawaii’s four counties to block November ballots from asking voters if they want to amend the Hawaii Constitution to allow the state to tax investment property. Associated Press.

Hawaii judge allows property tax con amendment to stay on ballot. A proposed amendment to the Hawaii Constitution that would permit the Legislature to place a “surcharge” on investment properties will be allowed on the November ballot following a judge’s ruling on a motion filed by the counties seeking to block the question. Pacific Business News.

The state Department of Taxation wants to subpoena Airbnb Inc. records for the past 10 years to determine whether transient vacation rental operators in Hawaii have been paying their state taxes. Star-Advertiser.

First identifications of remains turned over by North Korea to be announced. In coming weeks, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency is expected to announce the first two identifications from 55 sets of remains turned over by North Korea following a historic June summit between Kim Jong Un and President Donald Trump. Star-Advertiser.

We Don’t Give Up’: Identifying America’s Long-Lost Soldiers. The POW/MIA forensic lab in Hawaii has more than 1,400 service members who have been missing in action, some for decades. Civil Beat.

This Massive Boom Aims To Snag Pacific Ocean’s Plastic Trash. The collection system created by a Dutch innovator is headed to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Associated Press.

Oahu

Mayor to residents: Prepare for Olivia, but avoid overbuying supplies. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu mayor urges residents to stay vigilant despite potential hurricane fatigue. KHON2.

Navy plan for Red Hill tanks in question. After more than four years of discussion about upgrading 20 massive, aging underground fuel tanks that could pose a threat to a major source of Oahu’s drinking water, the Navy is saying, in part, that it isn’t sure of its future fuel needs in the Indo-Pacific region — pushing for the cheapest and least protective option to satisfy federal and state regulators. Star-Advertiser.

Invasive, reef-smothering algae are being kept in check at Kaneohe Bay thanks to tiny, native sea urchins that graze on them the same way goats feed on grass. Star-Advertiser.

A police motorcade led the fanfare for Saturday’s parade for the Honolulu Little League All Stars, who made Hawaii proud last month by beating South Korea to become the 2018 Little League World Series Champions. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Habitat for Humanity breaks ground on 4 new homes in Waimanalo. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Alleged mail-in voting abuse demands deeper investigation. Twice in six years, state Rep. Romy Cachola has been accused of effectively stealing elections by intimidating elderly immigrants in his Kalihi district to vote for him via mail-in ballots. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Before Hawaii County creates a redevelopment agency to guide eruption recovery in Puna, it may need some help from the state Legislature. Roy Takemoto, executive assistant to Mayor Harry Kim, said state law may only allow counties to have one such agency at a time. Star-Advertiser.

Residents flock to MacKenzie to relax, see new beach. MacKenzie State Recreation Area is located at the end of the road, where Highway 137 meets a barricade and not far from where lava from the lower Puna eruption first entered the ocean. Tribune-Herald.

Mandatory evacuation pau: Leilani Estates residents being allowed to return starting today. Tribune-Herald.

The Lessons Learned In Puna As Lava Shelters Shut Down. Public agencies and private organizations devised massive relief efforts, but “they knew a lot less about living rough than we did,” said one evacuee. Civil Beat.

Federal Support Critical to Kilauea Recovery Effort. Hawaii Public Radio.

Proposed compost site draws questions. Administrators with Hawaii County’s Department of Environmental Management say a new proposed site for a island-wide composting facility will have fewer impacts on the community and won’t be near any residences. Tribune-Herald.

New life for Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. With the announcement of a $550,000 grant through a federal community forest program, the nonprofit Friends of Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden have collected $1.3 million in raised funds that can go toward purchasing the garden from the Bishop Museum. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County prepares for Olivia with key port ready to close.  As Olivia approaches, Maui is still reeling from Hurricane Lane. KHON2.

Former Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino reported having a campaign war chest surplus of $33,280.40 as of last month’s primary election while Council Member Elle Cochran, his rival for the Mayor’s Office, disclosed having a deficit of $1,283.47, reports to the state Campaign Spending Commission show. Maui News.

The county Urban Design Review Board has recommended approval of plans for a Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission education and operations center on 8.26 acres next to the Kihei Boat Ramp. Maui News.

Visitors are overwhelming Maui’s Hana Highway and the residents who live along the remote route. Even as Hurricane Lane loomed over the Hawaiian islands last month, dumping 24 inches of rain on East Maui and triggering landslides, flash flooding, downed trees and other perils, tourists were hitting the famed “Road to Hana.” Star-Advertiser.

Roadwork in Haiku that was delayed due to weather will resume Monday, Sept. 10 along Awalau Road from the half mile mark to Kaupakalua Road. Maui Now.

Opposing candidate signs face off: Political signs a given for homeowners with prime visible locations. Maui News.

New guestrooms, restaurant at Sheraton Maui following $26.5 million renovation. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The County of Kauai will hold an open house and presentation on Wednesday to provide an update on the Lihue Town Core Mobility and Revitalization project. Garden Island.

Time Is Literally Running Out For This Historic Kauai Radio Station. President Donald Trump’s proposed 2019 budget would wipe out an annual $6.3 million appropriation that supports the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s 70-year-old broadcast at the Navy’s Pacific Missile Range Facility in Kekaha, as well as its two sister stations in Fort Collins, Colorado. Civil Beat.

It took the Ewings only two days to get the water out of their yard after the August storm. That’s an improvement, since it took two weeks to get rid of the water after the April floods. Garden Island.