Showing posts with label federal court. Show all posts
Showing posts with label federal court. Show all posts

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Smith confirmed as Hawaii federal judge, microplastics found in human placentas, snowfall on Mauna Kea, Zoom testimony returns to Kauai County Council, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

US Senate Confirms Miske Prosecutor To Federal Bench.  The U.S. Senate voted Wednesday to confirm Micah Smith as a federal judge for the U.S. District Court of Hawaii. Smith, a Kauai High School graduate, is an assistant U.S. attorney, who early in his career worked as a law clerk for former Supreme Court Justice David Souter.  Civil Beat. Garden Island.

State aims to cut unsheltered homelessness in half by 2026. There are around 6,500 homeless individuals in the state, according to last year's Point in Time Count, which provides a snapshot of the homeless population. More than 4,000 of those individuals live in unsheltered areas like beaches, parks or sidewalks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii state Capitol soaked due to leaking reflecting pool. Lawmakers earlier this year appropriated $33.5 million to repair and renovate the pools after appropriating $9.8 million in 2021 for the more than $30 million job. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Should Use Artificial Intelligence To Improve Fire Forecasts, Researchers Say. University of Hawaii researchers are pushing to kickstart the second phase of a yearslong project to help the state better forecast wildfires by using artificial intelligence. Civil Beat.

Retirement savings program unlikely to start before 2025.  Established by a bill signed by then-Gov. David Ige in 2022, the Hawaii Retirement Savings Program is intended to help Hawaii residents prepare for the future by allowing them to enroll in a state-managed individual retirement plan. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Prison Oversight Meetings Are Missing A Key Player — The Prisons Director. Tommy Johnson told the oversight coordinator that neither he nor his staff will attend the meetings, though they'll engage in other ways. Civil Beat.

UH researchers’ study sheds light on prevalence of microplastics. Pregnant women in Hawaii are very likely to have plastic fragments in their placentas, University of Hawaii researchers have discovered, raising further concerns about the long-term health implications of microplastics. Tribune-Herald. KITV4.

Oahu

HART OKs federal agreement to fund rail. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s board of directors Wednesday approved a federal plan to fund the city rail line’s ongoing construction to a planned station in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Rail construction causes Kalihi street to be closed through July. All lanes of Kohou Street are now closed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, due to rail construction. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Honolulu planes to be diverted to another runway November 29 through December 8 due to construction, warn of possible delays. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) will divert all aircraft arriving and departing at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to Runway 26L from 5 p.m. Wednesday, November 29 through Friday, December 8 due to ongoing remediation work on Runway 8L. KITV4.

Safety concerns at Puuloa Range in Ewa Beach addressed. State Rep. Rose Martinez and U.S. Marine Corps officials said Wednesday that they have come to a “mutually agreeable consensus among all involved parties” regarding potential lead poisoning of soil around the Marines’ Puuloa Range Training Facility in Ewa Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Health Department says PFAS detected in Waialua water system. The Hawaii Department of Health reports that perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, have for the first time been detected in water samples collected from a water system in Waialua. Star-Advertiser.

Navy video shows no widespread reef damage from plane in Kaneohe Bay.
Underwater video taken of a Navy P-8A Poseidon plane sitting in Kaneohe Bay shows two points of the plane resting on coral reef but no extensive damage. Star-Advertiser.

Large boulders come crashing down in east Honolulu amid drenching rains.
Large boulders, including one about the size of a compact car, crashed down in an Aina Haina community on Wednesday morning amid heavy rains. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Snowfall Closes Hawaiʻi Summit Access Roads. A layer of snow closed the road up to Maunakea on Wednesday, as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Hawaiʻi island summits. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Lawmakers tour progress of upgrades at Kona Community Hospital. Two West Hawai‘i state lawmakers on Wednesday were given a guided tour by hospital leaders of upgrades underway at Kona Community Hospital on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

HVNP takes steps to protect nesting nene. Parts of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park have been closed to give a couple of nene parents some space. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Maui

‘We are trying’: In wake of subpoenas, Maui’s mayor defends response to state investigation
. HNN Investigates has obtained copies of three subpoenas issued to Maui County as part of the investigation into the devastating fires. In an interview Wednesday, Mayor Richard Bissen said they are doing their best to cooperate, but experts say if that was true, subpoenas should not be necessary. Hawaii News Now.

Input invited on the role of tourism in supporting Maui’s recovery.  The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority will hold a community meeting to discuss proposed actions for tourism in support of Maui’s recovery. The meeting will be held at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s Morgado Hall on Monday, Dec. 4, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.  Maui Now.

Proposal offers tax incentive for short-term rentals that house displaced residents. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen is proposing a bill that would offer tax exemptions for short-term rental owners who house residents displaced by the Aug. 8 wildfires.  Maui News. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Maui officials on standby to stop heavy rains from sending ash into storm drains. Maui officials were on standby Wednesday to prevent ash from August's deadly wildfire in Lahaina from flowing into storm drains after forecasters said a winter storm could bring heavy rain and strong winds to the island. KITV4.

Kauai

Commentary:  Zoom testimony returns to Kaua‘i County Council. The Kaua‘i County Council is once again accepting remote public testimony “live” via the internet. Members of the public must sign up via email to testify no later than noon on the day prior to the meeting. Garden Island.

Lydgate Campground to close Dec. 6.  The Department of Parks and Recreation is announcing that the area surrounding the Lydgate Campground will be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Kauai Now.

Friday, July 3, 2020

BREAKING: Federal judge rules Hawaii quarantine reasonable during COVID-19 pandemic - full order included

©2020 All Hawaii News www.allhawaiinews.com All rights reserved
Federal courthouse in Honolulu ©2020 All Hawaii News

Federal judge rules Hawaii’s quarantine is reasonable during coronavirus pandemic. A U.S. judge will not stop Hawaii from enforcing a quarantine on arriving travelers, saying in a ruling that the emergency mandate is reasonable during the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A group of Hawaii, California and Nevada residents tried to stop the quarantine by filing a lawsuit alleging it is unfair and unnecessary. It violates the fundamental right to travel freely, they argued. Associated Press.


Full order from federal court upholding Hawaii's quarantine policy found here.

Thursday, December 21, 2017

Hawaii reacts to Trump tax package, Otake nominated federal district judge for Hawaii, medical marijuana approved for ALS, Marines honored for combat drones, Kauai council seeks GET change for housing, social media vigilantism in Honolulu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trump receives lei at Joint Base Hickam AFB, Nov. 3, 2017, (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)
Most Hawaii taxpayers will pay less in 2019 under new federal law. The nonprofit, nonpartisan Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy has compiled data for Hawaii that show a wide variety of possible effects of the bill on Hawaii taxpayers depending on their personal circumstances. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Delegates Speak Out Against GOP Tax Bill ‘Scam’. But President Trump calls passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act “a big, beautiful tax cut for Christmas.” Civil Beat.

Congressional representatives for Hawaii reacted with dismay to the $1.5 trillion tax package that the Senate and House passed Wednesday morning that is being billed as the first major overhaul of the nation’s tax laws since 1986. Tribune News Service.

Experts differ on new federal tax law’s impact in Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii affordable housing developers dodge tax bullet, sort of. The final tax bill headed for President Donald Trump’s signature preserves the private activity bonds and low-income housing tax credits used by affordable housing developers in Hawaii and across the U.S. to build affordable rentals, but the slashing of the corporate tax rate could mean $1.7 billion in lost equity each year, according to a new estimate. Pacific Business News.

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The Trump administration has nominated Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Otake as the new federal district judge for Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Trump Nominates Honolulu Attorney Jill Otake For Federal Judgeship. The announcement was praised by by Hawaii’s two Democratic senators, Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono. Civil Beat.

Hawaii study: Impacts of sea level rise already being felt — and it will only get worse. A new report is providing the first statewide assessment of the potential hazards and costly impacts to Hawaii's economy and shorelines with rising sea levels. Hawaii News Now.

2 Marines honored for use of drones in combat. Two Marines with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3 at Kaneohe Bay received a first-of-its-kind recognition for the use of drones in a combat zone. Star-Advertiser.

DOH Approves Medical Cannabis Use for ALS Patients. The Hawai‘i Department of Health announced it has added Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly referred to as ALS, to the list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Airlines announced today that it will no longer accept “smart” bags containing non-removable lithium-ion batteries as either checked or carry-on luggage, starting Jan. 15. Star-Advertiser.

Sun Country Airlines is planning to offer seasonal service from its home base in Minneapolis to Honolulu next year with a brief stopover in Los Angeles. Star-Advertiser.

United Airlines this week is expanding its portfolio of nonstop flights from Denver to Hawaii and to Mexico. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department, under its first female police chief, has named Lisa Mann to head its Investigative Bureau, becoming one of three women among HPD’s top brass. Star-Advertiser.

An estimated 50 chronically homeless people who were swept out of Kakaako Waterfront Park and its sister parks have erected dozens of tents and shelters in nearby Mother Waldron Park and along Pohukaina Street this week as city officials figure out what to do next with a homeless population they inherited from state officials. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council: Rail Beyond Ala Moana? The 9.5 billion dollar Honolulu Rail Transit Project is awaiting award of a contract to complete the line to Ala Moana Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

Councilman wants 19 more affordable units in Keeaumoku tower. Honolulu City Councilman Ikaika Anderson is endorsing a city administration suggestion that the developer of a planned residential tower on Keeaumoku Street make more homes in the building affordable to moderate- income residents. Star-Advertiser.

City Repaves Aggressively But Falls Behind On Other Roadwork. None of the nearly 1,800 lane-miles repaved in the last five years has been treated with materials routinely used to extend street life. Civil Beat.

Oceanic Institute makes major breakthroughs in raising Yellow Tangs. KITV.

Crime and Social Media Vigilantism. An emotional appeal to find suspects in the recent murder case of a North Shore woman led to two arrests thanks to social media posts. But can online calls to action go too far? Hawaii Public Radio.

A mumps outbreak has forced a Waianae charter school to schedule a longer winter break than originally planned. In a letter to parents, Kamaile Academy says five people are confirmed to have mumps with two more possible cases. KHON2.

Chef Mavro Restaurant is once again the only restaurant in Hawaii to be recognized in the Gayot 2017 Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Health Officials ID Priorities For Cesspool Upgrades. In a report to the legiuslature, 14 priority areas of the state where cesspool upgrades are critically needed are identified, with many on Hawaii Island. Big Island Video News.

The Hawaii County Council will chip in $16,500 from members’ contingency funds to support rat lungworm disease research. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County officials say the long-awaited Mauna Kea Recreation Area’s Bunkhouses will be available for public use starting on January 3. Big Island Video News.

Members of East Hawaii’s Jewish community have launched an effort to build Hawaii Island’s first synagogue. Tribune-Herald.


Maui

A Maui Publisher Notches A First Amendment Win. The Hawaii Supreme Court tosses out a case against MauiTime’s Tommy Russo, who filmed cops on the job. Civil Beat.

Mokuhinia Draft Archaeological Survey Completed. The public is invited to review the Draft Archaeological Inventory Survey for the Mokuhinia Ecosystem Restoration Project, which was recently completed by Cultural Surveys Hawaii. Maui Now.

UH Board of Regents Announces Finalists to Fill Maui County Seat. Maui Now.

Erosion on Maui threatens temple, washes away gravestones. Associated Press.

Erosion devouring mission property. Members of the 111-year-old Mantokuji Soto Zen Mission of Paia are hoping to save their temple building and cemetery from rapidly increasing erosion that has swept out into the shore break close to a hundred gravestones and claimed several acres of land over the years. Maui News.

Kauai

State ends cesspool program. One day after the state identified Hanalei as one of 14 priority areas where cesspool upgrades are critically needed to protect public health, the Department of Health has withdrawn a program to help residents in the area. Garden Island.

Councilmembers debate use of surplus GET funds for housing. A bill proposed by Councilman Derek Kawakami to use some of the projected surplus from the recently passed General Excise Tax increase towards affordable housing was withdrawn following a heated, 20-minute argument during the county council meeting Wednesday. Garden Island.

Unidentified Kealia object not bomb. It was a metal buoy, not an unexploded bomb, that has been rolling around at Kealia Beach over the last three days. Garden Island

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Death threats against Hawaii judge who blocked Trump travel ban, former HPD Chief Kealoha targeted in FBI probe, state socks away money for rainy day, Kauai mulls general excise tax hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Federal courthouse in Honolulu © 2017 All Hawaii News
Hawaii judge who blocked new Trump travel ban gets death threats. U.S. District Judge Derrick Watson has been assigned a 24-hour protection detail after receiving numerous death threats for blocking President Trump's latest travel ban. Hawaii News Now.

courtesy U.S. District Court
Watson
Hawaii state government has tucked away enough in cash reserves to weather the next “moderate” recession, according to the economic research firm Moody’s Analytics. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Superferry? Hawaii Economic Association Panel Says, "No." It’s been nearly a decade since the Superferry made its inaugural voyage to Kahului, Maui.   And, the feasibility of another interisland ferry came up during the Hawai’i Economic Association annual conference last week. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Does This Guy Make Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz Nervous? Barry Myers is Trump’s nominee to head NOAA but the Hawaii senator says he is “questionable choice.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the 27th most competitive tax code in the nation, according to the Tax Foundation’s 2018 State Business Tax Climate Index. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s timeshare industry contributed approximately $5.3 billion in consumer and business spending in 2016, according to a recent study conducted by Ernst & Young for the American Resort Development Association Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday, but the Hawaii franchisee says the filing has nothing to do with the two local restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s two Romano’s Macaroni Grill franchises won’t be impacted after the national chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Search warrant executed at Kealoha homes amid corruption probe. Criminal investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed search warrants at homes belonging to former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife Katherine Wednesday morning, the latest turn in a years-long federal investigation into public corruption at some of the highest levels of Oahu's law enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

FBI executes search warrant of Kealohas’ home as third police officer arrested this week. Federal authorities are making their case even more clear. KHON2.

Court documents filed by federal attorneys Wednesday indicate they intend to charge retired Honolulu police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, as part of their two-year-long case alleging a criminal conspiracy at the Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

Key points in criminal filings. The criminal complaint filed Wednesday against Honolulu police Lt. Derek Hahn clearly identify retired police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, as alleged co-conspirators in the federal investigation into corruption within the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

An FBI affidavit unsealed in U.S. District Court today details how officers close to the former chief of the Honolulu Police Department allegedly conspired to frame the uncle of his wife. Star-Advertiser.

FBI Reveals New Details About The Alleged Honolulu Police Conspiracy. A police lieutenant is the latest arrest in the unfolding story of alleged corruption in the Honolulu Police Department. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Lt. Derek Hahn was released on a $50,000 signature bond this afternoon several hours after being arrested by FBI agents in connection with the federal investigation of retired HPD Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine. Star-Advertiser.

The FBI arrested Honolulu police officer Derek Hahn on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing federal corruption investigation targeting Hawaii law enforcement. Civil Beat.

Police Commission Chair is optimistic HPD will have new chief by end of month. Despite Police Commission Chair Max Sword recusing himself from the selection process, he was front and center Wednesday in reassuring the media that HPD will be under the command of a new chief by the end of the month. Hawaii News Now.

Nominees to Honolulu Police Commission will not help choose new chief. Five days before the first day of interviews for the seven finalists for Honolulu Police Chief, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced two nominees to fill the vacancies on Honolulu Police Commission. KITV.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell nominated Wednesday two businesspeople to serve on the Honolulu Police Commission. Karen Chang and Gerard “Jerry” Gibson were nominated to fill the vacancies left by Luella Costales and Marc Tilker. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell Names Two New Honolulu Police Commissioners. But the two won’t be on board in time to help with the selection of a new police chief, under the current timeline. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has nominated Jerry Gibson and Karen Chang to serve on the volunteer Honolulu Police Commission, pending confirmation by the Honolulu City Council. Pacific Business News.

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Stranded Waikiki fishing vessel raises illegal immigration concerns. Federal immigration officials are now investigating the fishing boat that ran aground with 20 people on board in Waikiki last week. Hawaii News Now.

Video: Honolulu rail cars go on test run. Local transit officials have released footage of Honolulu’s rail cars running under their own power for the first time on the elevated guideway. Star-Advertiser.

One of the city's four-car rail trains reached 40 miles per hour in a speed test Wednesday. And officials are optimistic that it will be able to soon reach its top speed. Hawaii News Now.

Another new condominium tower has opened in Kakaako as the wave of development continues to break over the urban Honolulu area. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. on Wednesday marked the completion of the 317-unit Anaha in Honolulu, its second luxury mixed-use condominium tower in the developer’s Ward Village in Kakaako, with a traditional Hawaiian blessing. Pacific Business News.

Target opened its newest Hawaii store at Ala Moana Center on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu-based construction company Tunista Services LLC on Wednesday received a $7.4 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense for operations, maintenance and support services at Melrose Air Force Range in New Mexico. Pacific Business News.

Pride month hits Honolulu promoting equality, celebrating love. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The board charged with hiring the county Human Resources director will seek applications from the public, rather than limit its search to current county employees. West Hawaii Today.

A County Council resolution wants United States leaders to use diplomacy in dealing with the crisis on the Korean Peninsula. Big Island Video News.

Airbnb use growing exponentially for Ironman. Altogether, the company reported, arrivals to the island for the weekend netted Hawaii Island hosts $584,000 — about $350 for the typical host — with hosts in West Hawaii collectively earning $483,000, or $430 for the typical host during the event. West Hawaii Today.

Five more alala were released into the wilderness near Hilo last week, joining the six young Hawaiian crows that were introduced to the forest there at the end of September. Star-Advertiser.

Maui


Former worker slaps county with $1.63M discrimination suit. Robert Straub alleges he was fired when 71 years old and replaced by ‘substantially younger person’ Maui News.

A discrimination complaint involving an alleged denial of reasonable accommodation for an employee with a disability was settled for $35,000 in July. Maui News.

Pharmlab Hawaii LLC in Kahului became the second independent laboratory in Hawaii certified to test medical marijuana produced by licensed dispensaries and is expected to begin analyzing material for content and safety by the end of the week, according to state Health Department and lab officials. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Finance announced it will be holding a real property tax sale on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017 and will continue the sale on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017 if necessary. Maui Now.

Kauai

At Wednesday’s county council committee meeting, members discussed the possibility of increasing the general excise tax by a half percent to provide essential funding for rebuilding infrastructure, repairing roads, reconstructing bridges and improving public transport. Garden Island.

Kauai Powerlines Are Killing 1,800 Seabirds A Year. An analysis by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service predicts that all colonies of two endangered bird species on the island could vanish as early as 2050. Civil Beat.

Shearwaters, Hawaiian Petrels could be wiped out in 30 years. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released an analysis that estimates 1,800 endangered seabirds on Kauai are killed by collisions with power lines every year. Hawaii News Now.

Three ao released at Lydgate Park. The ‘a’o, or Newell’s shearwater perched on Hana Montgomery’s hands flew right into the sand four or five times before it took to the skies Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

A scientific analysis completed for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and obtained by the Center for Biological Diversity estimates that 1,800 endangered seabirds are killed by collisions with power lines on Kauai every year. KITV.

The U.S. Navy has scheduled a public meeting on Kauai regarding its proposal for training and testing that includes the use of sonar and explosives. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Win for Hawaii attorney general as judge halts Trump travel ban, nobody wants to be Honolulu top cop, Hawaii House passes $28B budget, Amazon to start collecting Hawaii taxes, snorkeling masks studied after drownings, radios go online on Big Island, Kauai mayor touts tax hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

leaving federal courtouse March 15, 2017 courtesy Facebook photo
Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin, left, with staff leaving federal courthouse Wednesday, Facebook photo
Rejecting arguments from the government that President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban was substantially different from the first one, judges in Hawaii and Maryland blocked the executive order from taking effect as scheduled today, using the president’s own words as evidence that the order discriminates against Muslims. Associated Press.

In a case of legal deja vu, President Donald Trump’s new executive order on immigration suffered a major setback Wednesday, when a federal judge in Honolulu issued a temporary restraining order to keep the travel ban from taking effect nationwide. Civil Beat.

President Donald Trump says a federal judge in Hawaii demonstrated “unprecedented judicial overreach” when he ordered a temporary halt to Trump’s revised travel ban earlier today. Star-Advertiser.

courtesy Joshua Wisch Attorney General's Office
PC: Joshua Wisch
For the second time, a federal court on Wednesday blocked President Donald Trump’s efforts to freeze immigration by refugees and citizens of some predominantly Muslim nations, putting the president’s revised travel ban on hold just hours before it was to take effect. Associated Press.

Hours before it was to take effect, President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban was put on hold Wednesday by a federal judge in Hawaii who questioned whether the administration was motivated by national security concerns. Associated Press.

A federal judge Wednesday granted a temporary restraining order filed by the State of Hawaii that puts the revised travel ban signed by President Donald Trump on hold. KHON2.

The judge who halted President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban is the only Native Hawaiian serving on the federal bench. Associated Press.

View the full opinion here.

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The Hawaii House passed the state’s $28 billion two-year budget at a time when state revenue projections are falling. Associated Press.

Using words like “prudent,” “cautious” and “conservative,” the Hawaii House on Wednesday unanimously passed the state’s operating budget, sending it over to the Senate for its review. Civil Beat.

Amazon said Wednesday it will begin collecting general excise tax on items sold in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

A tax credit that's offered to producers to film motion pictures and television shows in Hawaii may come with new requirements, including one to show respect and compliance with Hawaii's cultural beliefs and the environment. Hawaii News Now.

The Republican who chairs the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources has teamed up with a congresswoman from American Samoa to lobby President Donald Trump to open all marine monuments, including those in the Hawaii area, to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

Counties To Track Equipment Used In Snorkeling Deaths. A woman’s drowning spurs officials to consider the possible hidden dangers of full-face snorkeling masks. Civil Beat.

Investing in a college education pays off with substantially higher earnings over a Hawaii graduate’s lifetime, according to a newly released report by economists at the University of Hawaii that underscores the value of a college degree. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

More than two weeks after the forced retirement of Honolulu's top cop, the department has not received any applications to become the city's next police chief — at least not yet. Hawaii News Now.

The city says an estimated $5 million from an approved charter amendment will help the Honolulu Zoo enhance its programs and its budget. Star-Advertiser.

Millennials in Honolulu pay some of the highest taxes in the nation compared to their counterparts in other cities, according to a new report by SmartAsset. Pacific Business News.

US soldiers train for jungle warfare at Hawaii rainforest. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii Manoa has questioned the latest U.S. News & World Report graduate school rankings, saying the Washington, D.C.-based publication did not consider the complete data for its business school ranking. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A long awaited overhaul of the communication systems used by Hawaii County’s public agencies began rolling out this week as the Hawaii Police Department switched its radios to a new bandwidth. Tribune-Herald.

The Intermediate Court of Appeals has sided with former County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong and former County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi in a 2012 defamation lawsuit filed by Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto and one of her staff. West Hawaii Today.

A notice to proceed on the Lako Street extension could be issued later this year. West Hawaii Today.

Monk seal dies in fish pen off Big Island. KITV.

Maui

The proposed $354.5 million mixed-used Makena Resort project narrowly received enough votes from the Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday to allow the project to move forward without needing to prepare a lengthy environmental impact statement. Maui News.

The Hawaii Board of Agriculture on Tuesday expanded the coffee berry borer quarantine to Maui, effective May 1. West Hawaii Today.

Maui’s biggest coffee farm wants to double or triple in size, and would like some state help to get there. Star-Advertiser.

Kmart — the first big-box store to open on Maui over two decades ago — will close June 11 after sales have been cut in half since the opening of Target, a store manager said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

The county administration is seeking a $14 million increase and proposing tax hikes for the next fiscal year’s operating budget. Garden Island.

The mayor is seeking over $200 million for the operating budget and just under $15 million for capitol improvements. Garden Island.

The Department of Health says high levels of a harmful bacteria called Clostridium Perfringens -- an indicator of human and animal wastes -- were found during recent water testing in Waikomo Stream on Kauai's South Shore. Hawaii News Now.

Honeybee pollen study yields positive results. Some chemicals found in pollen raises concerns. Garden Island.

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Hawaii Democrats lose bid for closed primaries, hepatitis A linked to frozen scallops at sushi restaurant, overburdened Health Department hasn't hired workers, Kenoi wants theft case dismissed, ground broken for Maui hospital, privatization eyed for Big Island, solar sales drop on Oahu, gender-neutral restrooms at UH, super PAC stays out of campaigns, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii Democratic Party rally © 2016 All Hawaii News
A federal appeals court is upholding an earlier decision to support the way Hawaii holds its primary elections, rejecting the Democratic Party’s desire to exclude non-Democrats from advancing candidates to the general election. Associated Press.

The state Department of Health ordered the immediate, temporary closure of all Genki Sushi Restaurants on Oahu and Kauai on Monday after determining that the recent hepatitis A outbreak on Oahu was likely due to imported frozen scallops served raw at Genki locations on both islands. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Health has ordered all Genki Sushi restaurants on Oahu and Kauai to close immediately. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii State Department of Health has ordered an immediate shut down of all Oahu and Kauai Genki Sushi restaurants amid the Hepatitis A investigation. Hawaii News Now.

Health officials will hold a press conference at 9 a.m. Tuesday. KHON2.

As customers walked up to Genki Sushi in Kapahulu, many were surprised to see workers cleaning up instead of serving dinner. KITV.

Health Department Hiring Goes Slow — Will The Mosquitoes Wait? The state recognizes an “urgent” need to fill 20 recently authorized positions, but says some administrative delays are unavoidable. Civil Beat.

When the fall semester gets underway Monday at the University of Hawaii, students at the Manoa, Hilo and West Oahu campuses will have access to more than two dozen gender-neutral restrooms as part of a push to ensure safe and accommodating facilities for all students, including those who are transgender. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's public housing agency has agreed to take steps to remove language barriers for tenants after a family that speaks little English almost got evicted when they didn't understand the legal proceedings against them. Associated Press.

Oahu

Commentary: Now that it’s clear that former U.S. Rep. Charles Djou will be challenging incumbent Kirk Caldwell in the general election for Honolulu mayor, some political watchers were expecting the building trades group Pacific Resource Partnership to make a full-court press with millions of dollars to take down Djou. Civil Beat.

Newcomer Cedric Gates locked hands on stage with fellow Democrats after unseating Representative Jo Jordan by 52 percent.  Some think Gates’ win is under a cloud because in 2014 he previously ran as a Green Party candidate. KITV.

In what legal observers call a risky strategy, Louis and Katherine Kealoha are using lawsuits and media interviews to take the offensive as they are investigated in a federal corruption probe. Civil Beat.

A proposed settlement to end a landmark lawsuit over how the city has been conducting homeless sweeps cleared a hurdle Monday, with a federal judge recommending preliminary approval of the deal. Civil Beat.

State transportation officials have opened a 2-mile stretch of the H-1 freeway’s eastbound shoulder lane in West Oahu to weekday morning commuters — the latest step in their strategy to employ simpler traffic fixes while deferring costlier large-scale highway projects. Star-Advertiser.

Sewage from the Animal Quarantine Station is pouring into Halawa Stream, and it’s been going on for weeks. KHON2.

Data has revealed that the number of solar building permits issued by Honolulu in July was the city's fewest issued in the past year and a half. Associated Press.

Oahu’s solar energy industry continues to lag with a 54 percent drop in permits issued last month when comparing the same month last year and the fewest number issued in the past 18 months. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A lawyer for Mayor Billy Kenoi has filed a number of pretrial motions in Kenoi’s felony theft case, most seeking to dismiss the indictment or specific charges contained in the indictment. Tribune-Herald.

While favored most heavily on the windward side, Harry Kim had no trouble winning votes in each corner of Hawaii Island in his landslide victory during Saturday’s mayoral primary. Tribune-Herald.

Blank ballots and no-shows influence elections, too. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Even as Gov. David Ige’s administration struggles to carry out plans to privatize three state-owned Maui hospitals, Ige says he anticipates “similar arrangements” will be put in place to establish public-private partnerships at the Hilo Medical Center and the Kona Community Hospital on the Big Island. Star-Advertiser.

A groundbreaking for the long-awaited West Maui Hospital was held this morning at the project site, located on Kakaʻalaneo Drive, between the Honoapiʻilani Highway and the Kāʻanapali Coffee Farms community. Maui Now.

On a day that some residents thought they wouldn't live to see, officials and developers broke ground Monday on the West Maui Hospital and Medical Center, a decadeslong community vision that will bring critical health care to residents who have limited options in emergencies. Maui News.

In the race for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat, voters on Molokai and Lanai proved to be one of the deciding factors for winner Dain Kane, pushing him through to the general election Saturday night in the tightest County Council primary contest this year. Maui News.

Kauai

After the dust settled and the votes were counted early Sunday morning, one thing was clear: voter turnout for the island was the lowest since Hawaii became a state in 1959. Garden Island.

The North Shore Shuttle launched Monday will help alleviate congestion. Garden Island.

KIUC eyes power shift. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Federal court temporarily halts hospital privatization, Native Hawaiians want more cultural tourism, lone Republican Slom to seek another Senate term, Hawaiian Airlines pilots threaten strike, new civil defense chief for Hawaii County, missile test successful off Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Native Hawaiian tourism © 2016 All Hawaii News
Tourism is Hawaii’s largest industry, but Pohai Ryan, executive director of the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association, fears only half of those employed in the industry are sufficiently versed in Hawaiian culture. Pacific Business News.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday temporarily blocked Gov. David Ige’s plans to turn over three state-run hospitals on Maui and Lanai to Kaiser Permanente, a decision that effectively stalls the largest privatization initiative in state history. Star-Advertiser.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday ordered the state to hold off on its plans to privatize three public hospitals on Maui until Sept. 30 unless a judge terminates the injunction sooner. Civil Beat.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an order Tuesday temporarily blocking the July 1 transition of three Hawaii state-owned hospitals on Maui and Lanai to Kaiser Permanente until the end of September. Pacific Business News.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals entered an order on Tuesday temporarily stopping activities related to the transition of Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital & Clinic, and Lanai Community Hospital to a private operator. KITV4.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals temporarily suspended the transfer of the state-run medical system to a private health provider, pending the submission of a status report. Star-Advertiser.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals entered an order temporarily stopping activities related to the transition of Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital & Clinic, and Lānaʻi Community Hospital to a private operator. Maui Now.

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Hawaii Keeps Secret What Happens In Its Private Prison. Even when prisoners are murdered, state officials and their private contractor shield themselves from the public eye. Civil Beat.

Sam Slom, the Hawaii Senate’s sole Republican, announced Tuesday that he is seeking another four-year term this fall. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines pilots have voted to allow their union representatives to call for a strike if contract talks don’t end in a new collective bargaining agreement. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Airlines pilots represented by the Air Line Pilots Association International voted today to authorize their elected union representatives to conduct a lawful withdrawal of service if contract talks do not result in a new collective bargaining agreement.  Maui Now.

The Pentagon agency that recovers missing American war dead said it is proceeding at a record pace with about 100 identifications made nearly eight months into the fiscal year. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Whether it involves advocating for repeal of the federal Jones Act on maritime law, opposing tax increases at the Hawaii Legislature or litigating against Native Hawaiian self governance, Kelii Akina, the president and CEO of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, is a familiar figure in print, online and on air. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Two sisters who are principal and vice principal of the Myron B. Thompson Academy state charter school and have been under investigation by the state attorney general for more than two years turned themselves in to state sheriff deputies today. Star-Advertiser.

Twelve Moanalua High School seniors will be banned from taking part in the school’s graduation ceremony on Friday after the campus was vandalized overnight Monday. Star-Advertiser.

As enrollment continues to climb at the two high schools serving Ewa Beach and Kapolei in West Oahu, the Department of Education says its immediate priority is to expand existing facilities over building a new campus to relieve crowding. Star-Advertiser.

While Waipahu has seen significant growth and change over the decades, one constant remains in the former plantation town: the sugar mill’s 175-foot smokestack, a symbol of the once-thriving sugar cane industry. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Civil Beat won two first-place awards in the 2016 Best of the West journalism contest for its special series, The Micronesians.

Hawaii

Ed Teixeira, former Hawaii State Civil Defense vice director, is now directing the emergency management operations of the Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency as interim administrator. West Hawaii Today.

Another two years for County Council members, a larger Board of Ethics and an expanded scope for the general plan are among changes to the county charter considered Tuesday by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

The Banyan Drive Hawai‘i Redevelopment Agency now has a board of directors. The Hawaii County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to accept the five nominees. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Council wants the governor to declare a state of emergency, as the tree-killing fungus rapid ohia death continues to spread across Big Island native forests. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The state’s lone sugar plantation — in the midst of its 144th and final harvesting season on Maui — will be subject to new restrictions on cane burning under a legal settlement announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The owners of Hawaii's last sugar plantation have agreed to cut back on burning cane, ending a lawsuit challenging the practice. Hawaii News Now.

Makila Land Co. has withdrawn its proposal for a rural community in Launiupoko that would have included up to 75 single-family affordable units in addition to 150 rural-residential lots. Maui News.

Though the filing deadline for the Maui County candidates in the 2016 election is still a couple weeks away (June 7), a few races already loom large on the political radar. There are a lot of candidates out there and a ton of issues. But the Kula Community Association wants to help you this Wednesday, May 18 with a candidate forum. MauiTime.

Kauai

The signs posted Tuesday by Friends of Mahaulepu warning the public of water contamination in the Waiopili Stream were yanked out of their cement before it could fully dry, but Bridgette Hammerquist, president of the organization, said that won’t slow their roll. Garden Island.

A missile launch test was successfully conducted on Kauai late Tuesday, the Missile Defense Agency said. Hawaii News Now.

Carol Bain, who was recently elected to her fourth three-year term on the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s board of directors, has died, the utility co-op said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Carol Bain: A woman of vision. KIUC board member, former KCC professor, community advocate, will be missed. Garden Island.

Monday, April 18, 2016

Federal judge orders sex harassment training for Hawaii airports, new state auditor coming, Kauai pesticide study turned over to feds, Honolulu rail pivotal in mayoral election, low humpback whale sightings concern residents, police give fellow officer a pass on DUI test, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News
Honolulu International Airport © 2016 All Hawaii News
U.S. District Court Judge Michael Seabright ordered Hawaii’s Department of Transportation on Thursday to complete training within six months for all of its Airports division employees on preventing sexual harassment or discrimination. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Legislature is planning to vote to appoint a new state auditor, in a move that would direct the attention of an official who's viewed as a strict government watchdog from the Legislature to the executive branch. Associated Press.

The state will have the power to summarily suspend the licenses of doctors, dentists, nurses and pharmacists who lose their practicing privileges in other states under a bill adopted by the Senate on Friday and headed to Gov. David Ige for his consideration. Star-Advertiser.

After a busy week passing hundreds of bills before a major deadline, Hawaii lawmakers are facing another cutoff to send the final form of constitutional amendments to the governor’s office. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are now considering a bill to create an independent review board in the Attorney General’s Office to oversee state and county investigations into all police killings and in-custody deaths to ensure the inquiries are comprehensive and fair. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering a bill to close the gap in car insurance coverage for transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft. Star-Advertiser.

Law says they can open as soon as July 15. But will the state’s medical marijuana patients actually see dispensaries by then? Some in the industry don’t think so. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists Model Future Of Oceans In A Changed Climate, And It’s Not Pretty. We know there’ll be problems on the shorelines, but global warming also poses big threats to life out at sea. Civil Beat.

A group is pushing to study the humpback whale population amid a season of lower-than-normal sightings. Associated Press.

Hawaii regulators have chosen to go with Virginia’s Leidos Engineering to continue running the state’s ratepayer-funded energy conservation and efficiency program called Hawaii Energy, which serves Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, Lanai and Molokai, a spokeswoman for Leidos confirmed to Pacific Business News.

The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations is predicting a statewide uptick in employment in the near future, with a construction boom leading the way. Tribune-Herald.

State behind national average in incorporating special ed in classrooms. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

The agency responsible for planning and building Honolulu’s rail project is relying on outdated financial figures — and its latest estimates of how much over budget the project is are almost certainly too low and likely to climb, a report by the Office of the City Auditor concluded. Star-Advertiser.

Stung by criticism his agency is mismanaged, HART’s executive director continued a vigorous defense in a written response accompanying the final version of an audit released Friday. Civil Beat.

State law requires that law enforcement officers conduct breath, blood or urine testing on drivers involved in crashes resulting in injury or death, yet a Honolulu police officer arrested last week for alleged drunken driving was given a pass by fellow officers after he refused to submit to testing. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa wants to get a handle on all the shopping carts that are scattered around Honolulu. Civil Beat.

At the official opening of his Nimitz Center campaign headquarters, Mayor Kirk Caldwell told supporters that his re-election is about “plans, progress and people.” Civil Beat.

A 25-year-old Sumatran tiger at the Honolulu Zoo was euthanized Sunday due to complications from old age, city officials said. Djelita, who turned 25 on March 26, was the oldest living tiger in captivity, according to a post on the zoo’s Facebook page. Star-Advertiser.

Salt Lake residents are again raising concerns about a foul odor emanating from Honolulu Country Club’s water features, but just who is responsible for fixing the problem remains unresolved nearly two decades since efforts began to clear the air. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A rescue organization formed to ship dogs to mainland shelters is suing the Hawaii Island Humane Society and several other defendants, claiming the society stole credit for the air shipment of dogs off-island early last year, and that several individuals associated with the society conspired to smear the rescue organization. West Hawaii Today.

A well-connected Honolulu architect has been told to stop rebuilding a rock wall on the shore of Lalakea Pond. Tribune-Herald.

Residents and users of Keauhou Bay gave the Department pf Land and Natural Resources a piece of their mind on Friday during a hearing to gather input on a proposed offshore mooring project at the popular location. Big Island Video News.

Part of the years-long legal fight over Kawa Bay is now set to go to trial in federal court. Kittrena Morgan, a former resident of the area, sued Hawaii County and the police officers involved in her arrest on Oct. 25, 2012. West Hawaii Today.

The Hamakua Coast is looking to its past to plan for its future. It’s been more than five years since county planners along with residents began the process of creating a Community Development Plan for the region, part of a longterm effort to have CDPs in place for the entire county. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After leasing Waiakoa Gym for more than four decades, Maui County closed on a deal to purchase the gym this week, for $1.2 million plus closing costs. County officials say the price tag was lower than the initial appraisal of $1.4 million. Maui Now.

The county Department of Water Supply will host hands-on community workshops for residents to identify and evaluate ways to manage, develop and use Maui's water resources to meet the needs of all water users, according to an announcement from the department. Maui News.

Free public beach access parking is available in Kaanapali, but finding it is like being on a hunting expedition. Maui News.

Pu'u Kukui in the West Maui Mountains, often described as one of the wettest spots in the world, is not all that wet so far this year with March rainfall totals the lowest on record. Maui News.

The Lahaina Honolua Kupuna Serenaders perform at the start of Saturday morning's blessing and kickoff event for the Lahaina Harbor street improvement project located next to Lahaina Harbor. Maui News.

Kauai

The state Department of Agriculture has turned over to the federal government its report on workers sent to a Kauai hospital after entering a Syngenta Inc. cornfield sprayed with a powerful pesticide. Star-Advertiser.

Consultants leading a highly controversial analysis of the environmental and public health impacts of genetically modified farming in Kauai County issued a statement late Saturday responding to recent criticism. Civil Beat.

Four county lifeguard towers were outfitted with new solar-powered PA systems this month and all lifeguard towers received high-powered megaphones, thanks to donations from community supporters. Garden Island.

Sandi Combs said she wants to represent District 14 because it’s time for her to lead by example. Garden Island.

Friday, August 14, 2015

Group sues over Native Hawaiian election, Tax Department revamp coming, ahi fishermen reach limit, state works on marijuana dispensary rules, charter school applicants denied, parking lot woes on Maui, Kauai transfer station investigated, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2015 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Native Hawaiian children at play © 2015 All Hawaii News
A lawsuit filed Thursday is challenging an election solely for Native Hawaiians, saying it's unconstitutional to restrict voting to those who have Native Hawaiian ancestry. Associated Press.

Four Native Hawaiians and two non-Hawaiians filed a lawsuit Thursday in U.S. District Court in Honolulu seeking to block a “race-based” and “viewpoint- based” election planned this fall as a step toward establishing a sovereign Hawaiian government. Star-Advertiser.

A hui of four Native Hawaiians and two non-Hawaiians on Thursday filed a lawsuit against the state of Hawaii to halt what plaintiffs argue is “a racially exclusive election and constitutional convention designed to establish a sovereign Hawaiian nation.” Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of the Interior has taken a major step toward federal recognition of Native Hawaiians. The agency has released the draft of a proposed rule regarding procedures to re-establish a government-to-government relationship with a native governing entity. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s newly approved medical marijuana dispensary program is expected to fuel a multi-million-dollar industry starting next year. But a lot remains to be decided about program rules and how the state Department of Health will choose companies to receive eight coveted licenses to grow and sell cannabis. Civil Beat.

The state Tax Department is getting ready to enter the 21st century. The five-phase Tax System Modernization project kicked off with an announcement Thursday promising a wide range of improvements, including faster refunds on tax returns, better customer service and fraud protection. Civil Beat.

With the current El Nino event on pace to be among the most powerful on record, Hawaii will see no letup in the busy hurricane season, followed by a drier-than-normal winter that will worsen the state’s drought. In addition, weather experts predict the islands will experience more episodes of big surf during the winter. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Charter School Commission voted Thursday to reject applications for three campuses proposed for Oahu and Kauai, citing serious concerns over incomplete academic and financial plans. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released the 2014 edition of the State of Hawaii Data Book on Thursday. Star-Advertiser

Stem Inc., a Hawaii Energy Excelerator energy storage and data analytics startup, has secured $45 million in funding, the California-based firm said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawai‘i longline fishermen have hit their annual limit for bigeye tuna in Pacific waters, in the Western and Central Pacific region on August 5 and more recently in the Eastern Pacific for larger vessels. That doesn’t mean there won’t be tuna at local stores and restaurants. But it does mean some changes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The Hawaii water commission is moving to exert greater pressure on state and federal authorities to negotiate a tougher agreement with the Navy to upgrade its aging Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility where 27,000 gallons of fuel leaked last year. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department needs new police cars, motorcycles, and video surveillance machines.  They've asked the Honolulu city council for $2.6 million from taxpayers but Hawaii News Now has found an HPD account that has six times that amount, just waiting to be used.

It's been nearly two months since a gas fire halted construction on Kapahulu Avenue. Repaving of the road has yet to restart, and that has some residents wondering what's up. KITV4.

A badly needed new parking lot at an Oahu elementary school has remained unused for nearly five months because of safety concerns, frustrating families tired of a parking crunch there. Hawaii News Now.

Administrators at Ewa Beach's Campbell High School will be using portable classrooms to alleviate overcrowding. Associated Press.

Macy’s is closing its department store in Downtown Kailua in Windward Oahu, one of the largest ground lease tenants acquired by Alexander & Baldwin Inc. nearly two years ago, both the retailer and the head of A&B's Kailua properties confirmed to Pacific Business News Thursday.

Hawaii

The state Attorney General’s Office remained mum Thursday on the status of a criminal investigation — or even if there’s an ongoing investigation at all — into Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of his county-issued purchasing card, as the County Council prepares next week to clarify rules governing the taxpayer-backed pCards. West Hawaii Today.

According to defendants seeking Ho’oponopono following their April 2 arrests on Mauna Kea, the opposing sides have yet to meet to initiate the Hawaiian cultural process of making right. Big Island Video News.

Former state Rep. David Tarnas announced Thursday he’ll seek the District 7 state House seat currently held by Rep. Cindy Evans, a fellow Democrat. West Hawaii Today.

A quarantine to prohibit the movement of ohia trees, the soil surrounding them and ohia products from the Big Island is is likely to be approved this month in an attempt to stop the spread of a fungus that has the potential to kill the native trees throughout the islands. Civil Beat.

The mysterious and graceful manta ray is a Hawaii celebrity, attracting thousands annually to experience its nightly underwater feeding dance. Honoring the manta ray, Sheraton Kona Resort &Spa at Keauhou Bay will present Malama Hahalua, Manta Ray Week, Sunday through Aug. 22. West Hawaii Today

Maui

County of Maui says fire access is a big problem with new Shops at Wailea paid parking gates. MauiTime.

Maui County is seeking $160,000 from condo, vacation rental and time-share owners to help fund a study into ways to keep their beachfront property from washing away. Associated Press.

Hospital and state administrators expect to select either Kaiser Permanente Hawaii or Hawaii Pacific Health as a partner for Maui County’s three public hospitals by the end of September. Associated Press.

Kauai

An investigation is being launched by the Department of Health to determine if the Kauai County Hanalei Transfer Station is properly managing its stormwater containment areas, officials from the DOH confirmed with The Garden Island Wednesday.