Winners and losers in 2017 legislative session, Mauna Kea rocks marred by graffiti, lawsuit challenges Maui liquor law, Hawaii County faces tax hikes, Caldwell exemptions questioned, Hirono holds town hall meetings, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii ocean sunrise © 2017 All Hawaii News

A bill on its way to Gov. David Ige affirms the state of Hawaii’s commitment to addressing climate change. Tribune-Herald.

2017 should be another positive year for Hawaii’s economy, despite slowing growth in the construction sector. That’s the view of a local economic forecast group. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Legislature marred by secrecy, maneuvering and epic fail on rail. Star-Advertiser.

Who Won And Who Lost In A Legislative Session Marked By Failure. Civil Beat.

Deposed Thursday, former Speaker Souki ponders what’s next. Longtime Maui lawmaker seriously considering a run for lieutenant governor. Maui News.

A proposal to change inheritance rules for Native Hawaiian homeland leases unanimously passed both houses of the Legislature. If signed into law by the governor, House Bill 451 changes inheritance rules from requiring 1/4 Hawaiian blood quantum to 1/32 in order to inherit a parent’s homeland lease. Tribune-Herald.

A bill that would require Hawaii child care providers to obtain liability insurance is awaiting Gov. David Ige's signature. Hawaii News Now.

If the thousands of vacation rental houses in Hawaii were suddenly taken off the market, the state could lose 319,000 visitors annually, and their $431 million in spending and $37 million in taxes, a study says. Star-Advertiser.

New statistics about the health of Hawaii's LGB community were recently published by the state. KITV.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., parent of the Hawaiian Electric Co. and American Savings Bank, reported first quarter net income of $34.2 million, or 31 cents per diluted share, compared to net income of $32.4 million, or 30 cents per diluted share, during the same period last year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s past use of a property tax exemption for historic homes that allowed him to pay only $100 to $300 for several years has come back to haunt him as the city considers raising property taxes to cover rail deficits. Star-Advertiser.

At a crowded town hall in Honolulu on Saturday, U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono faced a barrage of questions from her Democratic constituents in Hawaii who are fearful about their future in a world of Republican political ascendancy on the mainland. Civil Beat.

Philippine Airlines, which for the past four years has been the only carrier to fly nonstop between Manila and Honolulu, will add 1,100 more seats a month on the route beginning next month. Star-Advertiser.

Airport’s low crime level reflects team effort, state says. Star-Advertiser.

A federal appeals court has upheld the Honolulu Police Department’s refusal to grant a firearm permit to a man who was convicted of petty misdemeanor harassment. Star-Advertiser.

The median sales price of $415,500 for condominiums on Oahu hit an all-time high in April as more buyers appeared to opt for condos while the supply of single-family homes remained low, the president of the Honolulu Board of Realtors said Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

The median price of a condominium on Oahu rose 7 percent in April to $415,500, while prices of single-family homes slipped, when compared to the same month a year ago, according to statistics from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Fusion Waikiki closed its doors for the last time this morning after a 28-year run, supplying dance music into the early-morning hours, drag shows and male stripper shows in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island motorists and property owners will feel the pinch of higher taxes this year, following a revised budget released Friday by Mayor Harry Kim. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim will be looking to raise taxes in order to balance the county budget. Big Island Video News.

An investigation is underway after rocks within the historic Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve were found damaged by graffiti last month. West Hawaii Today.

A criminal investigation is underway after graffiti was found painted on rocks within the Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve last month. Associated Press.

The Hawaii County Democratic party has a new County Chair. Former councilwoman Margaret Wille, running unopposed, led a slate of progressive candidates to take over the Hawaii County executive committee. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Dairy will be fined $25,000 for illegally discharging wastewater into a stream, the state Department of Health announced Friday. Tribune-Herald.

The number of single-family homes sold on the Big Island increased by 7 percent last month, compared to April 2016, but the number of condominiums sold dropped 17 percent, according to information provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Kihei resident Madge Schaefer and the Committee for Responsible Liquor Control filed a lawsuit in 2nd Circuit Court on Friday seeking the repeal of recent rule changes approved by the Liquor Control Commission that included the removal of blackout periods for the sale of alcohol, allowed home delivery of alcoholic products and removed the cap on the number of hostess bars. Maui News.

A lawsuit challenging the 24-hour sale of alcohol was filed against the liquor commission on Friday and in just a couple of days, the commission is holding a special meeting to hear testimony from the public. KHON2.

The Committee for Responsible Liquor Control and Kīhei resident Madge Schaefer filed a lawsuit on Friday asking the Second Circuit Court to invalidate the recent actions of the Liquor Control Commission. Maui Now.

Money for construction of schools, roads and Kahului Airport improvements are among Maui’s big-ticket capital improvement projects in the state’s two-year, 2018-19 budget that lawmakers have sent to Gov. David Ige’s desk for approval. Maui News.

While agricultural diversification of Alexander &Baldwin’s 36,000 acres of former sugar lands on Maui is “coming along well,” there’s no expectation that the effort will be profitable in the near term, A&B President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Benjamin told investors Thursday. Maui News.

Kauai

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono didn’t pull any punches when asked about the current administration during her town hall meeting Saturday afternoon at Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School. Garden Island.

Hawaii counties will soon be seeing a $10 million decrease in their allocation of Transient Accommodations Tax funds. Garden Island.

Kauai legislators review 2017 session. Garden Island.

The median price of single-family homes sold on Kauai rose 18 percent last month, compared to April 2016, even as the number of homes sold dropped 30 percent, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Barbara Weidner just stepped into a new role as chair of Surfrider Foundation Kauai, but she’ll still be cleaning beaches and visiting schools. Garden Island.

Hawaii teachers rally for more pay - here's how much they make, gas tax could jump 62%, more money for Wahiawa General Hospital, depleted uranium plan approved, Maui development controversial, teenage alleged rape victim scrutinized in DLNR agent trial, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii teacher rally at Capitol, courtesy Hawaii State Teachers Association

Several thousand public school teachers packed the grounds of the state Capitol on Monday as part of a rally calling on the governor and lawmakers to increase funding for public schools and raise teacher salaries. With a starting salary of $46,601 and highest salary of $85,488, the average teacher here is earning $58,959 this school year, according to the Department of Education. Star-Advertiser.

About 6,000 Hawaii teachers marched to the state Capitol to call for better pay. KITV.

Hawaii teachers marched to the state Capitol to call for better pay. They rallied today while the union is in the midst of contract negotiations with the state. Associated Press.

A state Senate committee on Monday voted to raise the gasoline tax in Hawaii by 10 cents per gallon, from 16 to 26 cents. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige’s proposal to increase the state’s vehicle weight tax, gasoline tax and registration fees won tentative approval from a Senate committee Monday after a key lawmaker announced she will amend the bill to increase the state gas tax by more than 62 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Drivers May Face Higher Taxes, Fees To Maintain Highways. A bill to hike Hawaii’s fuel and vehicle weight taxes and registration fee stays afloat at the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s public employees pension fund dug a little deeper hole for itself last quarter as it tried to climb out of a $12.44 billion shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would have prohibited county mayors and the governor from holding additional work was deferred last week at the Hawaii State Capitol, meaning that it’s almost certainly dead for the 2017 session. Civil Beat.

A group of local doctors fears that proposed legislation to allow the terminally ill to end their own lives will endanger the public’s health and safety. Star-Advertiser.

Change in school lunch policy urged after kids denied meals. KHON2.

A federal judge is allowing Hawaii to file an amended lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump's travel ban on people from seven mostly Muslim countries. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Navy opposes proposed state legislation that would require the military’s Red Hill fuel tanks to have secondary, or double-­walled, containment by 2027 — and so does the state Department of Health. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers are considering pumping more money into the struggling Wahiawa General Hospital to keep it afloat, provided it discontinues acute-care services and focuses solely on emergency, geriatric and long-term care. Star-Advertiser.

Man hit with hepatitis A sues Genki Sushi, food suppliers. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa Valley pool and gym to close for at least six months because of safety reasons. KITV.

Why Aren’t We Changing Waianae’s Culture Of Fistfights? “Nobody seems to care,” says a man who lives near where schoolkids regularly congregate to watch two or more students duke it out. Civil Beat.

A California developer broke ground Friday on its 14-story, 191-unit student housing project that will replace the iconic University Square retail center near the University of Hawaii Manoa campus in Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Money to battle rapid ohia death fungus, subsidies for rural schools, personnel costs at Hawaii Community Correctional Center and agriculture and water programs are facing new cuts as Gov. David Ige adjusts his proposed budget to account for an unexpectedly bleak economic picture. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission last week approved a radiation monitoring plan for Pohakuloa Training Area and other U.S. Army installations that previously used depleted uranium. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook to pay a Hawaii island developer $1 million after a state agency scuttled plans that had languished for more than two decades for a sprawling subdivision equipped with luxury homes, a golf course and shops. Star-Advertiser.

A teenager who claims she was raped by a state law enforcement officer on New Year’s Day 2016 on a Hilo beach testified Monday that she didn’t tell her stepmother about the alleged incident because the teen “didn’t know how to deal with it.” Tribune-Herald.

Ongoing trouble in regards to a special stone placed on Mauna Kea by one of the original petitioners in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing took center stage on Monday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

A controversial development proposed for Maui's North Shore drew hundreds to a community meeting on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Home inventory on Maui has increased for the high season as prices continue to trend upward, according to a monthly real estate report by Realtors Association of Maui Chief Staff Executive Terry Tolman. Pacific Business News.

The median price of a single-family home in Maui County fell 6.5 percent to $655,000 in January, compared with December when median prices reached $700,500, according to Realtors Association of Maui statistics. Maui News.

Kauai

An instructor in early education will be available to speak with people interested in acquiring a bachelor’s degree in early education on Tuesday from 9 to 10 a.m. in Room 204 at the One Stop Center at Kauai Community College. Garden Island.

Vehicle tax could be based on mileage, top-performing schools announced, no confidence in Honolulu fire chief, religious beliefs differ on Mauna Kea, Kauai to leave community center alone after outcry, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii road © 2016 All Hawaii News

The more than 1 million Hawaii drivers who get annual vehicle inspections could soon receive mock bills comparing what they pay in state fuel taxes to what they would pay if taxed on the miles they drive instead. Star-Advertiser.

The state's proposal to get rid of the gas tax used to fund road repairs in favor a mileage-based user fee is needed to prepare for a future with far fewer gas-powered vehicles on the roads, officials said Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The state’s top-performing public schools were announced Wednesday by the Department of Education, based on the latest round of results on the school accountability system known as Strive HI. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 1 in 5 Hawaii public high school students missed 15 days or more last school year and the figure topped 40 percent at some campuses, newly released academic performance metrics show. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii media outlets banded together this week to protest being shut out of a meeting between commercial fishing vessel owners and government officials to discuss concerns about the treatment of foreign crew members who work on U.S. vessels. Civil Beat.

There’s A Big Mess At The New Papahanaumokuakea Monument. State and federal officials are working to clean up leaking fuel, heavy equipment and other debris spilled into the water at Kure Atoll. Civil Beat.

The first aerial survey of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch shows that the amount of debris swirling in the North Pacific has been “heavily underestimated,” the expedition group said. HuffPost Hawaii.

Three-quarters of a century after he was killed during the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the remains of a young Navy sailor finally are heading home to Kansas. Associated Press.

Oahu

With a firefighter training death earlier this year and another firefighter injured after falling out of a helicopter rescue basket last month, the firefighters union says Honolulu Fire Chief Manuel Neves fails to place firefighter safety first and should be fired. Star-Advertiser.

Why It’s So Hard To Find Serious Candidates For City Prosecutor. Even one of Honolulu’s former top prosecutors won’t be eligible to run for his old job because of city rules that limit who can run. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council voted Wednesday to approve plans for the 36-story Mana‘olana condominium-hotel tower at Atkinson Drive and Kapiolani Boulevard. Star-Advertiser.

Starting tonight, Kakaako Waterfront Park — home to a persistent homeless population of about 50 people — will close four hours earlier indefinitely to repair an unknown number of light poles that have been vandalized to gain access to electrical power. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu sold about $379 million of tax-exempt and taxable general obligation bonds on Wednesday that will be used to refinance existing debt and finance new capital improvement projects and equipment. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii medical marijuana company is opening in the former Krazy Karaoke space in Honolulu, Pacific Business News has learned.

Waimanalo residents up in arms over proposed traffic light. KITV.


Hawaii

The Maunakea Management Board is asking its Native Hawaiian advisory group to take another look at proposed rules for cultural practices after hearing objections from some followers of the Hawaiian religion. Tribune-Herald.

It took four years, but the mayor finally celebrates the official opening of the new Kaʻū District Gym and Shelter. Big Island Video News.

Despite outreach effort, some Ironman athletes say Zika not on mind. West Hawaii Today.

After more than a year of development, the upper Puna connectivity plan was presented to the Hawaii County Council’s Committee on Public Works and Parks and Recreation during its Tuesday meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company is closing operations by the end of the year. The legacy of sugar has touched many lives in Hawai‘i. Before the final harvest is in, we’re hearing from a variety of voices. Hawaii Public Radio.

For centuries, traditional Hawaiian chants have warned about an increased risk of shark bites in the fall, when the wiliwili tree blooms. According to the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), that warning is still appropriate. Maui Watch.

Those of you who enjoy looking at musty old Hawaii Land Court applications from the comfort of your own home are in luck: Thanks to years of diligent work from the North Beach West Maui Benefit Fund, a huge trove of old West Maui Land Court applications is now online–all free to read and download. MauiTime.

Major parts of a wind turbine at the 21-megawatt Auwahi Wind project at the Ulupalakua Ranch on Maui separated from the tower structure and fell to the ground, shutting down the entire project, a spokeswoman for the owner of the wind farm confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Public outcry and financial constraints led the county on Wednesday to end plans to convert the Kapaa Neighborhood Center into a police substation and move the center to the Kapaa Armory. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council unanimously voted to kill a resolution that proposed changes to Waikomo Road Wednesday. Garden Island.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

Huge turnout as Hawaii Republicans vote for Trump, hundreds of bills passed to legislative crossover, gas tax hike advances, county employees reap frequent flier miles, Honolulu juvie hall to get new life, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii GOP caucus in Honolulu, courtesy Charles Djou

Billionaire Donald Trump won the Hawaii Republican Party’s presidential caucus voting Tuesday night, dramatically demonstrating his local appeal by spurring a strong voter turnout that swamped his competition. With all the precincts counted, Trump won handily with 42 percent of the vote, with Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz finishing second at 33 percent, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida a distant third-place with 13 percent, and Ohio Gov. John R. Kasich fourth with just under 11 percent. Star-Advertiser.

Republican front-runner Donald Trump clinched Hawaii's Republican presidential caucus Tuesday night, beating out U.S. Senator Ted Cruz by a significant margin. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Republicans helped Donald Trump continue his domination of the Republican presidential field Tuesday night. The New York real estate magnate won the GOP presidential caucus in the islands. He had 45 percent of the vote with 53 percent of the precincts reporting when the race was called by news networks at about 9:30 p.m. Civil Beat.

For the first time in many decades, Hawaii Republicans could make a dent in national politics. The plan would be both simple and complex. Star-Advertiser.

Although local GOP officials were anticipating large turnouts Tuesday night, it appears they might have been caught off guard by just how large the turnout was. KHON2.

In response to U.S. Rep. Charles Djou’s attack on Donald Trump Monday, local supporters of the presidential frontrunner for the Republican nomination have some comments of their own to make. Civil Beat.

=======================================
Opposition mounted in the Senate on Tuesday to a proposal by Gov. David Ige’s administration to hike the gasoline and motor vehicle weight taxes and increase the cost of registrations. If enacted, Senate Bill 2938, part of the governor’s legislative package, is expected to increase costs for a typical motorist by about $83 a year. Star-Advertiser.

It’s crossover week in the Hawaii Legislature, that time when the House and Senate each pass hundreds of bills and send them over to the other chamber for its consideration. While many bills are expected to survive the marathon voting sessions Tuesday and Thursday, many others will be considered dead for the year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s House and Senate each passed hundreds of bills Tuesday on topics ranging from gun control and medical marijuana to cooling public school classrooms and establishing an all-mail voting system. Civil Beat.

Today the House passed more than 180 bills, including measures to implement a heat abatement program in Hawaii's public schools and to fund construction/relocation of Oahu and Maui prisons. KITV4.

It’s a busy day for Hawaii lawmakers who are considering most of the bills that have a chance at becoming law this year. Associated Press.

Leaders of the state Senate and House of Representatives said Tuesday they are making good on promises to make helping the homeless and providing affordable housing a top priority. Civil Beat.

If there are any worries that the state Senate’s only Republican is out of action, worry no more. Sam Slom was his usual self Tuesday, voting “no” on countless bills sponsored by his Democratic Party colleagues. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige maintained his opposition Tuesday to NextEra Energy Inc.’s proposed buyout of Hawaiian Electric Utilities after the top executive at the Florida-based company’s subsidiary said earlier in the day that most of the governor’s reasons for opposing the sale “do not stack up.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Undeterred by rain that blew sideways and broke umbrellas, Republican voters lined up Tuesday night to cast their ballots in the Hawaii Republican caucus. Star-Advertiser.

In spite of rainy blustery weather, Oahu Republicans came out in what appeared to be record numbers to cast their ballots in their presidential caucus Tuesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Voters will have the final say, but the Honolulu Charter Commission has begun the debate over who should oversee the city’s transit operations — including the setting of fares for TheBus, Handi-Van and rail. Star-Advertiser.

A deteriorating and underused juvenile detention center in Honolulu owned by the state is being eyed as an opportunity to increase the supply of affordable housing and produce new facilities serving troubled children. Star-Advertiser.

Police and school safety officers patrolled three public school campuses Tuesday in response to a written threat, but classes continued as usual and no incidents were reported. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Radio has a new leader in a former Florida public radio and TV station CEO. HPR is scheduled to announce today that Jose Fajardo will succeed the 17-year tenure of Michael Titterton as president and general manager of the nonprofit member-supported station. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools’ $90-million Keauhou Lane rental project in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako, is expected to start construction in the first or second quarter of this year and be completed in the second or third quarter of 2017, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

It was crush turnout at a Republican caucus location in Kona — nothing like 2012, when the entire island cast 1,417 votes — poll workers said. West Hawaii Today.

The skies will remain friendly for Hawaii County employees. Officers and employees are allowed to continue to use the frequent flier miles they accrue on their purchasing cards during government-paid travel for their own personal use. West Hawaii Today.

Puna State Senator Russell Ruderman spoke for twenty minutes on the senate floor Tuesday in a last-ditch effort to derail a geothermal bill he says is bad for his district and the renewable energy industry. Big Island Video News.

In an effort to protect native plants from wild pigs, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources is proposing to fence an additional 2,659 acres in the Laupahoehoe forest. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Republicans came out to vote Tuesday in their state presidential caucus in numbers unseen in the memories of local party officials, braving rain, full parking lots and waits of over one hour to cast their ballots. Maui News.

Ethics board set to scrutinize financial disclosure reports. County administration, officials must disclose income, holdings, gifts. Maui News.

Central Maui Regional Sports Complex to Open March 12. Maui Now.

Monday marked the last day for 88 workers at Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co., as the company began gradual layoffs that will see most of its workers lose their jobs by the end of the year as sugar operations come to a close. Maui News.

Kauai

Ten minutes after the voting opened at the presidential Republican caucus on Tuesday, a line wrapped around the foyer of the Kapaa Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

The big question is: How does Kauai want to manage its invasive rodent population in forests and conservation areas? Monday and Tuesday evenings, members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife held preliminary scoping meetings in Waimea and Lihue to find out the answer. Garden Island.

New octopus discovered, prison corporation wants federal court to clarify Native Hawaiian religious practices, Legislature enters crossover week, gun control advances, Kona courthouse delayed by bid protest, Kauai seeks gas tax hike, Maui coffee comes to fore, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Octopus, courtesy NOAA

Scientists say they have discovered what might be a new species of octopus while searching the Pacific Ocean floor near the Hawaiian Islands. Associated Press.

Corrections Corporation of America is asking the federal court to force a final settlement in a class-action lawsuit over religious rights of Native Hawaiian inmates in Arizona. Civil Beat.

Despite heavy opposition from federal recognition advocates and an agenda deliberately primed to produce a federal recognition-friendly constitution, Hawaiian independence advocates at the Native Hawaiian Convention, better known as the ʻAha, succeeded in planting a stake in the ground for the “pursuit of independence.” Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii lawmakers are heading into a busy week when bills have to be passed out of the House and Senate and sent over to the other chamber. Those that don’t make it over the hurdle will die. Associated Press.

Hawaii already has some of the toughest gun control laws in the nation, but state House and Senate lawmakers are advancing a half-dozen new proposals this year to further restrict access to firearms for people who have criminal records or are being treated for mental illnesses. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would prevent known and suspected terrorists from purchasing a firearm is moving forward in the House. Star-Advertiser.

Opposition is mounting to bills that would let the online vacation rental giant Airbnb and similar companies arrange to collect general excise and transient accommodations taxes on behalf of hosts and pay the money to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Some lawmakers at the Hawaii Legislature think the state could do more to attract major national and international sports and entertainment events. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The University of Hawaii-Manoa campus is now accredited internationally as an arboretum, a designation that recognizes its more than 500 species of trees as an important collection. Star-Advertiser.

The number of single-family homes sold on Oahu jumped 19.4 percent to 240 homes sold in February, from 201 homes sold during the same month in 2015. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Recent tourism statistics suggest Hawaii Island’s dengue fever outbreak hasn’t had the overall negative impacts some feared. Tribune-Herald.

A bid protest on the new $90 million judiciary complex means that West Hawaii might have to wait a bit longer for justice to be served in a secure setting. A protest letter filed late last month by contractor Nan Inc. alleges that two lower bidders failed to respond to all of the requirements of the project. West Hawaii Today.

Sales of single-family homes on Hawaii’s Big Island soared in February as prices dropped, while sales of condominiums dropped and prices soared, according to statistics from the Hawaii Island Realtors via Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

Maui

While much of the focus of Hawaii's coffee industry centers on the Big Island's Kona brand, Maui farmers are proving it's not the only coffee from the Aloha State worth tasting. Maui News.

Kaanapali's hotel and condominium owners are baffled by a proposed 33 percent increase of their water bill for this year. Maui News.

A random sampling of Maui County residents will receive a mailed Department of Parks and Recreation survey seeking help in prioritizing future parks facilities, programs and services. Maui News.

Single-family home sales soared 15 percent to 69 homes sold, compared to 60 homes sold in February 2015. The median price of a single-family home in February was $595,000, an increase of 6.5 percent from $558,625 during the same month a year ago. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council on Wednesday will consider a proposal to increase the gas tax by 15 cents per gallon beginning Jan. 15. Garden Island.

Single-family home sales on Kauai jumped in February, even as condominium sales and prices dropped, according to statistics from the Kauai Board of Realtors via Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

Gas tax, vehicle registration fee, weight tax hikes clear Senate committee, excise tax, income tax credit bills die, Caldwell seeks to merge transit agencies, blood drive canceled amid dengue fears, Kauai mulls tourist limits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Back when Hawaii gas prices were high © 2016 All Hawaii News

The Senate Ways and Means Committee on Monday approved a hike in the gasoline tax, to 19 cents from 16 cents per gallon, as well as increases in the state’s vehicle registration fees and weight taxes. Proposed by Gov. David Ige’s administration, the measure is expected to increase costs for a typical motorist by about $83 a year. Star-Advertiser.

Two major proposals to increase the state’s general excise tax died Monday in the Senate money committee despite strong support from the Hawaii State Teachers Association and groups advocating for the elderly. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers killed a bill that would have made Hawaii the first state in the nation to offer long-term care benefits to seniors. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Senate’s budget committee has killed a bill that would have established a state earned income tax credit aimed at helping low-income families. The Ways and Means Committee, led by Sen. Jill Tokuda, deferred the measure Monday. She said the proposal would have a $19 million impact on state revenue and instead she is “looking at other ways” to help those in lower income brackets. Civil Beat.

The Water and Land Committee chairman has spent months drafting two bills that he hopes will help address the impotence of the state Land Use Commission, but Judiciary Committee Chairman Karl Rhoads hasn’t yet scheduled them for a hearing. Civil Beat.

After having failed at the Legislature in the past two sessions, bills to ban the sale of endangered wildlife parts and products are moving forward in both the state Senate and House this year. They face favorable odds toward final passage, according to those behind the legislation. Civil Beat.

A lawsuit targeting Na‘i Aupuni and its nation- building campaign will move forward even after last week’s conclusion of the Native Hawaiian convention and its creation of a constitution. Star-Advertiser.

A pro-independence hui will have to wait another two years to get on the ballot after coming up short on the number of signatures needed to receive official party status for the 2016 elections. But one of the founders of the Aloha Aina Party said they will continue organizing in the meantime. Tribune-Herald.

Following 21 days of testimony, questioning and cross-examination, the state’s top energy regulator said evidentiary hearings that will help the Public Utilities Commission decide whether or not NextEra Energy can purchase Hawaiian Electric Industries are nearly complete. Civil Beat.

A majority of people in the Aloha State believe in God with absolute certainty, according to the Pew Research Center. But that doesn’t necessarily make us devout. Civil Beat.

A recent report from the Economic Innovation Group examined economic distress in 25,000 zip codes, and found Hawaii had the fifth lowest percentage of population in distress. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell wants to merge rail, bus and paratransit operations under one agency managed by a mayoral administration. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell didn’t announce any new initiatives in his fourth State of the City address Monday night, instead emphasizing that he plans to continue making headway on roads, sewers, buses, parks, homelessness and rail. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu rail project, road conditions on Oahu and homelessness are among some of the major topics Mayor Kirk Caldwell touched on during his fourth State of the City speech on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

In the 23 years that Arish Riordan has lived in Kaaawa on Kamehameha Highway’s mauka side, she’s watched the beach her family used to enjoy there gradually disappear, replaced by piles of large boulders installed to protect the roadway from the encroaching sea and pummeling surf. Star-Advertiser.

A piece of land in Kailua is causing some controversy. Kaapuni Drive is lined mostly with single-family homes on large beachfront lots, but plans are underway to build four closely-packed homes on a one-acre plot. Some neighbors say that's a bad idea. Hawaii News Now.

The Federal Detention Center sits near the Honolulu International airport.  It isn't up for sale, but some lawmakers think maybe the state should try and buy it. KITV4.

The East-West Center Board of Governors has begun its global search for the successor of current President Charles Morrison, who will retire in August after serving for the past two decades. Pacific Business News.

The waiting game to send and receive ocean cargo between the islands has gotten so long that it’s on the radar of everyone from businesses and consumers to lawmakers and regulators. KHON2.

Commentary: I discovered recently that the illegal gates that the city says Diamond Head homeowners built on the public oceanfront walkway between Leahi and Makalei beach parks have been removed. But the city says it had nothing to do with taking down the gates that it said were installed without permits. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The Blood Bank of Hawaii has canceled three blood drive events in Kona next month due to the dengue fever outbreak. Hawaii News Now.

Bills that would fund efforts to combat a disease that is rapidly killing Hawaii Island’s native ohia trees continue to advance in the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

The late state Sen. Gil Kahele’s bill to establish a statewide airport governing body cleared the state Senate Ways and Means Committee on Monday and is on its way to a vote by the full Senate. Tribune-Herald.

The ancient fish ponds have turned from crystal clear to algae-ridden in the years since the March 2011 tsunami tore a 100-foot gap in the beach, damaging 220 feet of wall and allowing years of storm-driven sand to drift into the once clear waters. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Departing director proud of Na Hale O Maui’s progress. Land trust taking new direction in helping residents buy homes. Maui News.

Three prison guard recruits from Maui have been fired after they were involved in a fight that led to a stabbing during a night of partying at a Honolulu strip club. Hawaii News Now.

A day after astrophysicists "heard" gravitational waves for the first time from the collision of two black holes in September in a landmark moment in physics and astronomy, the Pan-STARRS telescope atop Haleakala pointed to the heavens in hopes of "seeing" the collision. Maui News.

Kauai

The Community Advisory Committee on Monday discussed ways to limit the growth of tourism to let the island’s infrastructure catch up. Garden Island.

Rescue operations, Coco Palms, salary increases, and taxes are all on the docket for Wednesday’s County Committee meetings. Garden Island.

Fuel tax hikes proposed for roads, three counties mull general excise tax increase, attorney general says fantasy sports betting illegal, military wants to beef up Kauai missile range, opposition rises to homegrown marijuana ban bill, more than 2k bills filed this legislative session, two Hawaii billionaires among world's top 10 wealthiest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Road construction in Hawaii © 2016 All Hawaii News

In an unusual election-year move, Gov. David Ige is asking lawmakers to raise the state’s gasoline tax from 16 cents to 19 cents per gallon while also boosting the state’s vehicle registration fees and weight taxes, steps the administration expects will cost a typical motorist about $55 extra per year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin issued a formal advisory opinion Wednesday stating that daily fantasy sports contests, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, are illegal under Hawaii gambling laws, and his office is considering pursuing criminal or civil enforcement actions against companies operating the websites. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Attorney General’s office issued an opinion Wednesday saying daily fantasy sports contests like those run by FanDuel and DraftKings constitute illegal gambling in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The state Attorney General says daily fantasy sports contests, such as FanDuel and DraftKings, are illegal gambling under Hawaii law. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers have filed more than 2,000 new bills in the 2016 legislative session. They're racing to turn in their proposals before a legislative deadline. Associated Press.

With the high cost of incarceration, many states are increasingly turning to ankle bracelets as a more cost-effective way to supervise offenders — while freeing up space in prisons and jails. But, in Hawaii, the concept of electronic monitoring has yet to fully take hold. Civil Beat.

Hawaii state lawmakers are pushing for a new bill to make wrongdoings by officers become public knowledge. KHON2.

A bill that would ban homegrown marijuana in Hawaii is riling pot advocates as the state prepares for the opening of medical cannabis dispensaries this year. Star-Advertiser.

The people have spoken, and lawmakers have finally heard them: Hawaii’s sweltering classrooms need to cool off. How to accomplish that will be a top priority this legislative session, possibly snagging even more attention than the Hawaii State Teacher Association’s ambitious proposal for wide-ranging education reforms. Civil Beat.

A no-tipping model has been gaining popularity across the nation and Hawaii restaurants may soon jump on the bandwagon. Pacific Business News.

As of Jan. 23, approximately 13,194 Hawaii residents had signed up for coverage through HealthCare.gov during the enrollment period that began in November, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Pacific Business News.

Candidate filing for the elections for federal, state and county offices later this year gets underway Monday and runs through June 7, the state Office of Elections said Tuesday. Maui News.

A new report ranking all 50 states based on residents’ sense of well-being puts Hawaii at No. 1, followed by Alaska, which held the top spot last year. Associated Press.

Oahu

Oahu residents and visitors will be paying a 0.5 percent surcharge on goods and services through 2027 for the $6.57 billion rail project after the Honolulu City Council voted Wednesday to approve a five-year extension. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council extended state funding for the rail transit project today.  But the lawmakers imposed a few restrictions on spending. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council approved a five-year extension of a 0.5 percent general excise tax surcharge Wednesday to help cover cost overruns and lost revenues on the $6.6 billion rail project that’s currently under construction. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council 7-2 vote boils down to this. For the average taxpayer, it’s not a forever tax. But it's continuing to pay a half percent more on goods and services until 2027. KITV4.

Is Rod Tam returning to politics? An outspoken and controversial figure, he spent two nights in jail in late 2011 and early 2012 for stealing city funds and violating campaign spending laws. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Navy is asking officials from government agencies that want to participate in the implementation of an agreement to update underground fuel tanks at Red Hill to sign non-disclosure agreements that would prevent them from sharing information related to procurement and national defense. Civil Beat.

Bikeshare Hawaii planned to roll out its bike rental system this month, but the start date has been delayed because of a lack of capital. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

A measure currently being considered by Hawaii County officials would add another half-percent to the general excise tax charged on goods and services. West Hawaii Today.

All seven members of the Big Island’s state House delegation are co-sponsoring a bill that would bolster efforts to combat invasive little fire ants. Tribune-Herald.

Extending roads across five lots between subdivisions would be enough to connect upper Puna communities and provide another route in case of an emergency, an ad hoc committee concluded. Tribune-Herald.

A pair of House and Senate bills would pave the way for privatization of Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. West Hawaii Today.

An off-duty Kona Patrol officer has been arrested and charged with the alleged assault of a 72-year-old man living above him in a Kailua-Kona apartment. Big Island Video News.

Scientists from University of Hawaii at Hilo and the San Diego Zoo, are trying to bring the Hawaiian crow back from the brink of extinction. Researchers were able to successfully sequence the genome of the bird, also known as the alala. KHON2.

Maui

ATC Makena Holdings came up against strong opposition Tuesday to its plans to develop 47 acres in the Makena Resort. Maui News.

Kauai

It was a mixed bag at the Kauai County public hearing Wednesday for the proposed one-half percent general excise tax surcharge increase. Garden Island.

Findings from N&K CPA Inc.’s audit report were in the same areas as the findings from the last fiscal year’s audit report. But the county has made progress in each of the areas. Garden Island.

The head of U.S. Pacific Command said Wednesday that the U.S. military should consider enabling an Aegis Ashore facility on Kauai to protect against North Korean missile threats. Star-Advertiser.

A school bus rear-ended a sedan on Kaumualii Highway near the Kauai Humane Society Tuesday morning. There were no injuries. Garden Island.

Lanai

Billionaire Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle Corp. to bought Hawaii’s island of Lanai for $300 million, is the seventh-richest person in the world, according to a new ranking by Wealth-X, in collaboration with Business Insider, of the world’s 50 wealthiest people. Another Hawaii landowner, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, 31, was ranked just below Ellison at No. 8 with a net worth of $42.8 billion. Pacific Business News.