Judge to consider guns on beaches, insurance company to leave Hawaii, light sentence for Honolulu architect who helped FBI expose corrupt building inspectors, Ellison's Lanai explored, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Judge to consider whether Hawaii can ban firearms on its beaches.  The state’s latest gun control measure landed in court because of a lawsuit by three Maui residents who want to carry guns on beaches and other places deemed sensitive by the law, which took effect this month and involves a misdemeanor offense. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Feds To Boost State Efforts To Take On Affordable Housing Shortfall. State officials say the State plans to take advantage of a new $85 million funding opportunity under HUD that will help communities "address restrictive zoning, land use, and regulatory policies." Big Island Video News. Tribune-Herald.

Quiet on set: Hollywood strikes leave Hawaii crew members behind. The Hollywood strike that has united writers and actors for the first time in 60 years also has left hundreds of crew members in Hawaii without paychecks as work on Hawaii-based television shows and movies has been suspended. Star-Advertiser.

Universal Homeowners Insurance Company Is Pulling Out Of Hawaii. Roughly 1,500 polices will be affected by Universal Property & Casualty’s departure from the homeowners, condominium and renters insurance market in Hawaii, according to a state news release Thursday. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.

Thousands enrolled in HECO pilot that institutes different rates for peak, non-peak hours. The “Shift and Save Rate” pilot program will enroll about 15000 residential homes and 1,700 business customers on Oʻahu, Maui and Hawaiʻi Island who were selected at random. KHON2. Hawaii News Now.

New classrooms opening this fall seen as big step toward achieving universal preschool. The state plans to open 11 new free public preschool classrooms this fall as part of the Ready Keiki initiative. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii-Japan summit rebuilds relationships, forges new ones. Gov. Josh Green and Hawaii’s four county mayors attended the event, where they welcomed governors and mayors of six prefectures and 16 cities and towns from Japan with state and city sister relationships. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Visitor arrivals in June continue recovery. Some 889,274 visitors came to Hawaii in June, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Architect who helped FBI build case against corrupt building inspectors gets leniency in federal court. An architect who gave tens of thousands of dollars in bribes to workers at the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting was sentenced on Thursday to one year and a day in prison and a $5,000 fine. In the face of painful permitting delays, Bill Wong said he gave in to the pressure to "pay to play." Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

City awarded $25M toward Ala Wai pedestrian bridge. The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services has been awarded $25 million in federal funding toward construction of the planned Ala Wai pedestrian bridge, the city announced Thursday. The June arrivals were a 5.5% increase from the June 2022 total. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

 Red Hill’s Fuel Director Raised An Alarm Before Pipes Leaked. The Navy Removed Her. Lt. Cmdr. Shannon Bencs reported problems with Red Hill’s infrastructure and leadership culture just months before fuel leaks contaminated the drinking water. Civil Beat.

City cites lack of funding for delay in building Makakilo bypass.  Those in favor of the city constructing the Makakilo Bypass Road claim it’s a matter of safety. But the city said the reason it isn’t happening boils down to funding. KHON2.

Half A Million Dollars Buys 6 Months Of Security Guards For Waikiki. While crime on the tourist strip is trending down the city says more resources are still needed. Civil Beat.

Kaneohe care homes must pay $287K for overtime violations.  The owners and operators of two residential care homes in Kaneohe must pay $287,279 in overtime wages and damages to 23 caregivers after a federal court ruling, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island’s New Climate Change Office Will ‘Create A Unified Front’. The office will work toward reducing emissions, promoting renewable energy and efficiency, and fortifying infrastructure against climate change impacts. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Why were oral arguments challenging permit of Thirty Meter Telescope deferred? Nobody will say.  The Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources, which announced the postponement on July 21, provided no reason why the arguments would not be heard at the July 28 regular Land Board meeting. It also would not say how long the arguments will be stalled. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui's 900-acre Olowalu Reef to receive slice of large federal funding.  Over $180,000 will go toward restoring the over 900-acre Olowalu Reef, which has been identified as one of the most essential reefs around Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Housing to benefit from proposed wastewater project. A proposed wastewater facility in Central Maui is set to benefit a number of current and future housing projects, including the Waikapu Country Town development of more than 1,500 units and the master-planned Kehalani community. Maui News.

A look inside life on an island owned by Larry Ellison, the fourth richest person in the world. Imagine trying to make ends meet while living on an island owned by one of the richest people in the world. That’s the reality for some residents on Lānaʻi, who say the power dynamics of land control can get… complicated.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui Brewing Company in Lahaina reopens after health inspection. The state Department of Health’s Food Safety Branch has allowed Maui Brewing Company to reopen in Lahaina after shuting it down due to a cockroach and rodent infestation. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Liquor Department offers free Narcan kits to licensees.  The Kaua‘i Department of Liquor Control is offering free Naloxone, also known as Narcan, to all of its liquor licensees. Kauai Now.

Play Streets coming to Laukona Park. The Play Streets Kaua‘i planning team announced the arrival of and accessibility to the popular Play Streets free program at Laukona Park in Hanama‘ulu on Aug. 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. Garden Island.

Federal money flows to Hawaii, lawsuit filed against state gun law, Honolulu seeks extra time to find new landfill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Feds Inject Another $50 Million Into Hawaii For Infrastructure Improvements. The new grant money will help build a pedestrian bridge over the Ala Wai Canal and make road improvements on Maui. Civil Beat.

Biden administration commits $16M to Hawaiian bird conservation efforts. The Biden-Harris Administration will dedicate $16 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act as part of an initiative to save Native Hawaiian birds from extinction, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.  Civil Beat.  Big Island Now.

Lawsuit filed against against Hawaii’s “sensitive places” gun law. The first legal challenge to Hawaii’s new concealed carry gun ban is set to be heard Wednesday in federal court. Hawaii News Now.

Groups demand government travel ban to nearly half of country over healthcare access.  At the close of Pride Month, eleven organizations are taking a stand. They have co-signed a letter asking the Governor, four county mayors, the University of Hawaii’s president, and the Department of Education superintendent for government travel bans to 20 states they say have blocked access to health care including abortion and gender-affirming care. Hawaii News Now. Big Island Now.

Hawaii’s Population Is Aging Fast. The Impacts Will Be Significant. Hawaii is in the midst of a major demographic shift that will transform island society in the coming decades, as the rest of the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

City braces for complaints over lack of key amenities, like bathrooms, at Honolulu rail stations.  While excitement seems to be growing for the official opening of the first half of the Honolulu rail system, the city is preparing for complaints that rail stations are lacking key amenities. Hawaii News Now.

Planning panel to consider 2-year Waimanalo landfill extension. The Honolulu Planning Commission today is expected to review the city’s request for a two-year extension to find a replacement site for the controversial, decades-old Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu liquor enforcement a mess, report finds. Low morale and a reportedly understaffed enforcement arm of the Honolulu Liquor Commission has led to “inconsistent and inefficient enforcement patterns” on Oahu, according to an internal review released Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

City to receive $20M to buy new all-electric buses, expand charging capacity. Currently, the city has 17 all-electric buses, and with the grant, they are hoping to acquire an additional seven. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Major upgrades coming to 'Iolani Palace part of Biden's 'Investing In America' plan. Renovations to 'Iolani Palace's roof will receive upgrades all while maintaining its historical appearance.  This is made possible through a nearly $500,000 Save America's Treasures Grant. KITV4.

HPD investigates circumstances of officer-involved shooting in Pearl City.  The Honolulu Police Department said the incident started off as a burglary call with a woman saying her ex-boyfriend was in her home armed with knives.  KHON2. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mokulele Airlines suspending daily flights between Hilo and Kahului. Mokulele Airlines suspending daily flights between Hilo and Kahului.  Beginning in August, Mokulele Airlines will suspend its daily flights between Hilo and Kahului in order to provide additional flights to other Neighbor Islands. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.  West Hawaii Today.

Big Island vacation rental occupancy for May down 14% from a year ago. The occupancy for Big Island vacation rentals in May was 43.5%, which is down 14.2% from a year ago and 27.8% lower than May 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Big Island Now.

‘Nuclear option’ eyed for Uncle Billy’s hotel.  East Hawaii lawmakers favor the use of an emergency proclamation to expedite demolition of the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Proposal for Maui's first protected fishing area advances with BLNR approval. The Board of Land and Natural Resources unanimously voted to advance plans for such an area in Kīpahulu. It would give the remote community a greater say in the management of their fisheries. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Homes Commission Chooses Water Policy Expert As First Rep On East Maui Water Board. Monday's vote marks one of the last steps in setting up the 11-member board that will help shape East Maui's water future. Civil Beat.

Hale Pono Youth Shelter set to open in July. The two-story, 7,100-square-foot Hale Pono Youth Shelter is nearly complete and almost ready to offer Maui teens much-needed tools and resources to cope with emotional or behavioral problems, truancy, domestic violence, trauma or other challenges. Maui News.

Dredging at Kaunakakai Harbor anticipated to clean up 50 years worth of mud. The island of Molokai depends on twice-weekly barge deliveries for food, gas and other essentials, which would not be able to dock if dredging is not done.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Lānaʻi becomes the first island to be fully fiber-enabled by Hawaiian Telcom. Hawaiian Telcom has completed its fiber expansion throughout the island of Lāna‘i, marking another step towards closing the state’s digital divide. Lāna‘i residents and businesses island-wide now have access to Hawaiian Telcom’s high-speed internet Fioptics. Maui Now.

Kauai

Temporary locations for Building and Engineering divisions, Parks Permitting Office open to the public. County officials announce that temporary locations for the Department of Public Works Building and Engineering Divisions and the Department of Parks and Recreation Permitting Office are now available to the public at the Līhu‘e Civic Center. Kauai Now.

Green plans to veto commerical use boating permits bill.  Gov. Josh Green announced he plans on vetoing a bill aimed at reducing the number of commercial use boating permits, something several Kaua‘i tour operators said would shut down their businesses if signed into law. Garden Island.

Green names business leader to head Board of Education, Honolulu council members mum on their huge pay hikes, Kauai tour operators irked by boat limits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Selects Business Leader To Head BOE.  Gov. Josh Green has named Warren Haruki, a former CEO of Maui Land & Pineapple Co., as the next chair of the state Board of Education.  Civil Beat.

‘This is crazy’: Analysis finds billions in schools construction money unspent. More than $2 billion in school construction is going unspent and nearly half of that money is set to lapse next year. Hawaii News Now.

State senator calls for audit of Hawaii Film Office. The director of the state Department of Economic Development, Business and Tourism said he is looking into Sen. Kurt Fevella's accusations of the state’s film office. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Green signs laws limiting places to carry guns; mandating active shooting training at schools.  On National Gun Violence Awareness Day, Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green signed laws that prohibit firearms at a variety of places — including hospitals, beaches, stadiums, movie theaters and bars that serve alcohol — and mandates active shooting training at all public and charter schools in the state. Kauai Now.

'House the Hawaiians': DHHL leader's plan to buy land with $600M budget. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands says it's on track to use one-third of its $600 million budget by the end of this fiscal year. That could provide housing opportunities for 2,000 beneficiaries. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii gas and union workers resume contract negotiations amid strike. Progress has been made in contract negotiations with Hawaii Gas for hundreds of union workers. Hawaii News Now.

2020 census data details Hawaii households. With high housing costs and a strong sense of ohana, Hawaii once again leads the nation in multigenerational households, with 9% of the state’s 490,267 households comprising three or more generations, according to the census data released May 25. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Only 3 of 9 Council members comment on pay hikes.  Less than a month remains before the Honolulu City Council sees a more than 64% pay boost and Mayor Rick Blangiardi and top city executives receive a nearly 12.6% salary increase. Star-Advertiser.

Louis Kealoha Asks Judge For ‘Mercy’ In Letter From Prison. Former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha says he is throwing himself “at the mercy” of a judge who will decide whether he’s on the hook to pay $500,000 in a civil lawsuit. Civil Beat.

$50M state budget item at center of transparency debate. An effort to fund initial construction of an elaborate state, county and federal first-­responder agency campus on Oahu survived a contentious and somewhat opaque legislative budgetary practice this year. Star-Advertiser.

TSA deploys new technology at Honolulu airport. The Transportation Security Administration has been investing in new technology to screen travelers and their personal property in the security checkpoints at Hawaii airports with the goal of enhancing security and improving screening efficiency, which comes in handy as the traditional summer rush of travelers begins. Star-Advertiser.

OCCC selects new warden. The state Department of Public Safety has announced the selection of John Schell as the new warden for the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

‘Plan is to fix what’s there,’ says Dillingham Ranch’s new owner. Historic Dillingham Ranch, the Mokuleia property where local business tycoon Walter F. Dillingham established his home more than a century ago, was sold this spring for $36.5 million to the Nolan family, which has ties to Hawaii and intends to keep it in agriculture. Star-Advertiser.

‘Bait And Switch’? These West Oahu Residents Say They’re Victims Of A Big Developer. A lawsuit filed by Hoopili residents says power lines that were supposed to be buried are now towering above the subdivision. Civil Beat.

Solving Honolulu’s Bike Commute, One Sketchy Intersection At A Time. From "leading intervals" to "bike boxes," the city's avid cyclists have plenty of ideas to make the streets more accessible. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Tempers flare at PGV meeting. Decades of frustration boiled over Thursday during a public meeting about a planned expansion of Puna Geothermal Venture. Tribune-Herald.

16 New Treatment Beds Opened For Substance Recovery. Big Island Substance Abuse Council announced two separate homes, with eight treatment beds each, have opened on Hawaiʻi Island. Big Island Video News.

Dismantling of CSO mirror to ease move; decommissioning to be complete by end of summer. The decommissioning of the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory on Maunakea will no longer require several road closures. Tribune-Herald.

This ‘Retired’ Big Island Attorney Is Still A Fierce Advocate For The Little Guy. Will Rosdil came out of retirement to take on the case of a man who lost his home to foreclosure. He's still at it. Civil Beat.

Maui

Maui County’s $1.07 billion budget will be up for second and final reading before the Maui County Council at its meeting Tuesday, Council Chairwoman Alice Lee announced.  Maui News.

Sand replenishment project for Kaanapali Beach in limbo. Hotels and condos along Maui’s famous Kaanapali Beach are divided over whether to move forward with a controversial $10 million beach restoration project nearly three months after the board that oversees the state Department of Land and Natural Resources pulled its support for shouldering half its costs. Star-Advertiser.

County breaks ground on new water source project in West Maui.  The Maui County Department of Water Supply project will develop the Kahana Well, which is currently an exploratory well, and other improvements, such as constructing a well pump, control tank, chlorination system housing, electrical upgrades, access road and other work. Maui News.

Kauai

Tour Boat Companies Say Bill To Beat Overtourism Would Sink Their Business. Roughly 25 sightseeing boat tour companies have permits to operate out of Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor, the gateway to the 17-mile Na Pali Coast.  Civil Beat. Garden Island.

Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project fights to save the aikikiki from extinction. The birds are quickly vanishing, likely due to avian malaria. And if not taken out by malaria, Aikikiki are prey to rats. Hawaii News Now.

UH-Senate power struggle intensifies, large white balloon heads for Big Island, striking Kaiser employees ratify contract, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Divide over University of Hawaii’s autonomy deepens. Less than a minute into one of the first University of Hawaii briefings of the year before state Sens. Donna Mercado Kim, Donovan Dela Cruz and others, it was already shaping up to be yet another showdown in a long-running and often bitter divide over who calls the shots for the state’s massive public university system. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie outburst highlights tensions with Gov. Green nominees. Gov. Josh Green has urged state senators to treat his Cabinet nominees with courtesy and respect, but some senators say it goes both ways after one was called an “idiot” by no less than former Gov. Neil Abercrombie at this week’s confirmation hearing for Ikaika Anderson. Star-Advertiser.

House Judiciary Chair David Tarnas Is A ‘Gatekeeper’ For Sunshine Bills. Tarnas has already raised some hackles by deferring bills in his committee without debate or votes by committee members. That’s within a committee chair’s purview, but still, it rankles some. Civil Beat.

Gov. Josh Green requests additional $2.5B for state budget. Gov. Josh Green has pumped up his state spending request for the next two fiscal years by almost $2.5 billion, updating a plan released in December that was largely prepared by his predecessor. Star-Advertiser.

House bill would outlaw gender pay disparity in Hawaii. Employers across Hawaii would have to disclose pay ranges to employees and job applicants in an effort to eliminate gender and other wage discrimination under House Bill 745. Star-Advertiser.

Bill to increase conveyance tax on homes will potentially fund homeless services. A senate bill to significantly increase the conveyance tax for multimillion dollar homes in Hawaii was shut down last week. However, a similar one is now alive on the house side. KITV4.

State coordinator position would handle homelessness on DLNR land. House Bill 1254 and Senate Bill 1144 would appropriate the proper funds needed to put a coordinator in charge of organizing and responding to houseless individuals on lands regulated by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Lobbyist Charged With Vet Clinic Drug Violations. An indictment says Alicia Maluafiti obtained drugs using a veterinarian's credentials, but the political insider says she didn't know it was improper. Civil Beat.

Bills propose lowering drunken driving threshold to 0.05%. In an effort to discourage drunken driving and reduce traffic fatalities, advocates are pushing legislation that would lower the alcohol impairment threshold for Hawaii drivers. Star-Advertiser.

Bill to legalize marijuana rolls through first joint committee, lined up for another. Senate Bill 375 would allow adults 21 years and older to possess up to 4 ounces of cannabis. Hawaii Public Radio. Garden Island.

Plans To Expand Hawaiian Language Studies In Schools Stall. Most educators, parents and teachers approve of broader access to olelo Hawaii learning while acknowledging the challenges around implementation. Civil Beat.

Climate warning labels sought for self-service gas stations. Hawaii SB 506 would require retail self-service stations to put labels on gas-dispensing equipment advising consumers of the effects of fossil fuel consumption on human health and the environment. Star-Advertiser.

New chief energy officer seeks partnerships at home and offshore.  Mark Glick has yet to be confirmed by the Hawai'i State Senate as Chief Energy Officer, but he's wasting no time in getting down to business.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Tech firm aims to step up engagement in Hawaii. As military leaders look at potential vulnerability to hacking and spying operations, they’re looking to companies like Booz Allen — one of the military’s top contractors for tech and intelligence — to support the Pentagon’s buildup of forces in the region.  Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Kaiser therapists ratify contract, ending long strike. Therapists employed by Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii — members of the National Union of Healthcare Workers — voted overwhelmingly Saturday to ratify a new contract ending a nearly six-month strike that the union says is the longest work stoppage by mental health care workers in U.S. history. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. KITV4.

Green requests $45M to reimburse physicians who treat Medicaid patients. In an attempt to address the physician shortage in Hawaii, Gov. Josh Green has asked the state Legislature to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates. Tribune-Herald.

‘Sweet Lies’ campaign takes aim at sugar-laden fruit drinks. The state Department of Health has launched its first campaign taking aim at the beverage industry’s marketing of sweetened fruit drinks to keiki. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Suspect in fatal hit-and-run has no driver’s license, 164 citations. The 45-year-old man arrested in connection with the hit-and-run incident that killed a McKinley High School student has no driver’s license and 164 prior traffic citations, according to state court records. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Probe ongoing in 10 likely felony charges against officers. Only five of the 24 officers named in the Honolulu Police Department’s 2022 disciplinary report as facing possible criminal prosecution between 2017 and 2022 have been charged, according to a review of state court records. Star-Advertiser.

Vice Adm. John Wade is face of Navy’s Red Hill response. The officer the Pentagon has tasked with overseeing the defueling of the Navy’s Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility has for Hawaii residents in many ways become the face of the Navy. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki beach campers move officials to establish closure period. The Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District Association is implementing a three-hour closure period from 2 to 5 a.m. daily for the Royal Hawaiian Beach to address a range of problems associated with overnight campers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island gun case tests high court ruling. A Hilo judge on Monday dismissed three firearms-related charges against a 27-year-old Kurtistown man on the grounds that they violated his right to carry a firearm for self-defense under the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County to use VW settlement funds to purchase island’s first battery electric buses.  The five, 35-foot buses will be acquired using money the county received from the 2016 Volkswagen settlement combined with its portion of a federal Low or No Emissions Vehicle grant the state received in 2022 totaling over $23 million. West Hawaii Today.

Officials break ground on new senior housing center. After more than a decade of preparation, advocates for military veterans finally broke ground Friday on what will become the state’s only veteran-focused senior living center. Tribune-Herald.

Pilots notified of large white balloon sighting; model shows a course over Big Island. On Sunday morning, the Federal Aviation Administration began notifying pilots of a sighting of a large white ballon traveling at between 40,000 and 50,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean and a few hundred miles east of the Hawaiian Islands, according to multiple aviation reports. Big Island Now.

Pond restoration efforts bring nene, other birds back to Keaukaha. Kumiko and Patrick Mattison have turned a passion project into the ‘Aina Ho‘ola Initiative, a restoration project for the estuarine wetlands and fish ponds of Lokowaka, Ki‘onakapahu and ‘Akahi in Keaukaha. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Sugimura named council vice chairperson, Kama takes pro tempore role. Yuki Lei Sugimura was elected vice chairperson of the Maui County Council on Friday, while Tasha Kama was chosen as presiding officer pro tempore, solidifying the council’s top leadership more than a month into the term. Maui News.

Council passes bill to implement organic standards and regulations at Kula Ag Park. The council passed a bill Friday that reserves the Kula Agricultural Park Phase 1 Expansion area for practices that comply with the National Organic Standards Act. Maui Now.

Land trust dreams of a flourishing Kahanui wetland. Restoring the Kahanui wetland to what it once was, flourishing as a food production system and wildlife habitat, is at the heart of a proposed project on Molokai. Maui News.

Kauai

Evslin Leaves ‘Big Hole’ On Kauai Council As He Moves To State House. Evslin distinguished himself on the council with his down-to-earth demeanor and passion for policy minutiae. Supporters describe him as an intelligent and meticulous politician with a progressive agenda who is both engaged and accessible to constituents. Civil Beat.

Prosecutors to go to jail (to see conditions firsthand). More than 65 elected prosecutors including Kauai Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like have pledged to visit local correctional facilities to get a better understanding of conditions and implications of incarceration. Garden Island.

New Kauai Drug Camp Treats At-Risk Teens Like Family — Not Patients. A scrappy grassroots group is finding success through a program that features strength conditioning, outdoor adventure and the healing power of forgiveness. Civil Beat.

Mauna Loa eruption inches toward Saddle Road, Honolulu City Council advances gun limits law, mayor vetoes Waikiki noise bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Loa looms behind Hilo Town ©2022 All Hawaii News

Mauna Loa eruption continues, creating spectacle from afar. Mauna Loa’s first eruption in nearly 40 years marked its second day Tuesday with lava continuing to march across the mountain’s remote northeast rift zone toward Hawaii island’s saddle region. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. West Hawaii Today. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Associated Press. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Mauna Loa eruption update website. USGS.

Resolving tourism marketing dispute will fall to incoming governor. Incoming Gov. Josh Green says he will broker a deal to end the dispute over how to market tourism to Hawaii. That’s despite the Ige Administrations last-ditch effort to have the contracts rebid. Hawaii News Now.

Japan tourism falling behind expectations. Visitors from Japan to Hawaii are only about 18% recovered from pre-­pandemic times, sparking concern that what was once the islands’ largest international market will drag down the state’s tourism economy into 2023. Star-Advertiser.

After-School Programs Have More Funding But Staffing And Enrollment Remain Challenges. Beneficial after-school programs received millions in pandemic-relief funding, but more than 1,000 Oahu families are still waitlisted because of staffing shortages. Civil Beat.

State Board of Education framing early multiyear strategic plan. An early version of a new strategic plan to steer Hawaii’s mammoth public school system for the next five years or longer has been drafted and will be discussed Thursday at a special meeting of the state Board of Education. Star-Advertiser.

Climate Change Experts Are Taking Lessons From Indigenous Knowledge. As the effects of climate change intensify, researchers and leaders in the Pacific say they’re increasingly looking to Indigenous knowledge to help face the growing crisis. A climate-related training for a United Nations delegation this week at Chaminade University will largely focus on such Indigenous-based approaches. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Bill on gun-free areas on Oahu passes first reading. The first reading of a city bill detailing where firearms cannot be carried on Oahu drew opposition Tuesday from those who believe there should be no restrictions for law-abiding firearm owners who want to carry a gun in public. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Blangiardi vetoes Waikīkī noise amplification bill. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi has vetoed a bill that would have limited amplified noise in Waikīkī, according to a Nov. 22 letter to the City Council. Hawaii Public Radio.

1,100 gallons of toxic foam spilled at Red Hill. About 1,100 gallons of toxic fire suppressant was spilled Tuesday at the Navy’s Red Hill fuel facility, an incident that state Department of Health officials described as “egregious.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

USDA awards $750K to Hawaiʻi Island farm for veteran support. A farm in Hilo will receive more than $750,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a pilot program helping military veterans. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘A big pat on the back’: Three Ring Ranch Exotic Animal Sanctuary receives prestigious award. The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries recently presented to Three Ring its annual Outstanding Sanctuary Award to recognize excellence in humane and responsible animal care; professionalism and ethics; organizational sustainability; public engagement; and contributions to, and leadership within, the sanctuary field. Hawaii’s only accredited animal sanctuary was selected from more than 200 GFAS-certified sanctuaries worldwide for this honor. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Alleges This TV News Reporter Crossed A Line In Covering A Case Of Police Misconduct. Maui County has subpoenaed Hawaii News Now’s chief investigative reporter Lynn Kawano as part of a case involving a former police officer previously convicted for a child sex offense. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit seeks to void race results, hold new election. A candidate and 30 voters have filed a complaint with the Hawaii Supreme Court asking that the results of the Maui County Council’s Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat race be voided and a new election be held over alleged violations of duties and state law by the county clerk, including improperly notifying those with deficient return envelopes. Maui News.

Kauai

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands opens new Kaua‘i office. The state Department of Hawaiian Homes Lands held a blessing, dedication and opening ceremony on Monday for its new Kaua‘i district office in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Mauna Loa spurts lava 100-200 feet into air, Kahele investigated for allegedly campaigning on U.S. taxpayers' dime, DOJ seeks 4-year sentence for Hawaii Proud Boys founder, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Mauna Loa eruption Nov. 28, 2022 PC:USGS

No danger yet as Mauna Loa lava flows on the Big Island. Instead of flowing quickly to South Kona, which has happened before, lava from the world’s largest volcano erupted from its Mokuaweoweo summit caldera at about 11:30 p.m. Sunday, then migrated Monday to a northeast flank through three fissures, each between 1 and 2 miles long, where red lava spurted as high as 100 to 200 feet into the air. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Mauna Loa Eruption Webpage. USGS.

Pohakuloa Training Area Closely Monitoring Mauna Loa Eruption. The U.S. Army says there are no troops on the ground training at PTA, and there is no immediate threat from the eruption to PTA personnel, structures, or training areas. Big Island Video News.

New Mauna Loa Eruption Reopens A Costly Old Issue: Why Is Building Allowed In Risky Lava Zones? Lava from the Mauna Loa eruption was apparently headed away from homes in the volcano’s southwest rift zone Monday, offering at least a temporary reprieve to property owners in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates and other areas that are most at risk. But the new eruption reopens old questions about where development should be allowed, and under what conditions. Civil Beat.

Officials hope Mauna Loa eruption mirrors 1984 event. Although it’s been nearly four decades since Mauna Loa came to life, the current eruption so far has a familiar 1984 feel to it. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiians see special significance in Mauna Loa erupting on La Kuokoa. On Monday, Hawaiians celebrated La Kuokoa, also known as Hawaiian Independence Day. And some see Mauna Loa erupting on this day is a sign of a revival. Hawaii News Now.

Tourism officials monitoring Mauna Loa eruption. Hawaii tourism officials spent most of Monday telling travelers not to alter their plans to come to Hawaii, saying it was too soon to know how the Mauna Loa Volcano eruption would affect demand. Star-Advertiser.

Mauna Loa eruption expected to trigger winter tourism boost for Hawaii Island. With Mauna Loa erupting for the first time in nearly 40 years, Hawaii Island businesses are already expecting to see lava lovers flocking this winter season. Hawaii News Now.

DOH: Mauna Loa eruption may affect air quality across the state. Hawaii Department of Health officials are advising the public to be prepared for possible impacts on air quality as a result of the Mauna Loa eruption. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

State’s top U.S. tourism contract stalls again. Mike McCartney, director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, in his role as head of the purchasing agency for the Hawaii Tourism Authority, told the Senate Committee on Ways and Means on Monday that HTA’s U.S. tourism contract is likely headed for a third round of procurement. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Hawaii Economic Chief: Start Over On The State’s Big Tourism Marketing Contract. Mike McCartney, director of the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, wants the two organizations who have been fighting over the $34 million contract to split the job. Civil Beat.

Kai Kahele Faces Ethics Probe For Allegedly Misusing Social Media During Campaign. The Hawaii congressman is accused of misusing official resources for political purposes while running for governor. He was also cleared of wrongdoing related to his side job with Hawaiian Airlines. Civil Beat.

DOJ Seeks 4-Year Prison Sentence For Hawaii Proud Boys Founder. Nicholas Ochs claimed he was a journalist when he breached the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 with a mob of pro-Trump supporters. Prosecutors say he was a high-ranking official within the extremist organization who promoted violence. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council To Take First Look At Sensitive Places Gun Bill As Public Weighs In. The Honolulu City Council will hold a special meeting Tuesday to consider Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s proposed legislation to protect sensitive places where carrying concealed firearms will be restricted. Civil Beat.

Board adopts emergency plan for Oahu water shortages. The board overseeing Oahu’s municipal water system adopted a plan Monday for responding to water shortages in the event of an emergency, such as a severe drought, damage to infrastructure or water contamination as in the case of 2021’s Red Hill disaster. Star-Advertiser.

Waikīkī beaches continue to erode year-round, researchers say. Geospatial analyst Anna Mikkelsen has been studying Waikīkī’s shoreline since 2018 to see if there are any patterns to the erosion. Hawaii Public Radio.

After another fatal fall, city posts ominous sign at one of Oahu’s most dangerous hikes. Less than a month after a hiker fell to his death at Olomana trail, a new sign with an ominous message was posted at the trail head. The message ― written in red ― says six people have fallen to their deaths after hiking past the first peak. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island schools are open; DOE says it’s closely monitoring eruption impacts. All schools on Hawaii Island remain open as Mauna Loa’s eruption poses no immediate threat to residents and neighborhoods. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i police to equip 40 sergeants with body-worn cameras. Forty patrol sergeants will be outfitted with the Axon Body 2 camera — the same used by patrol officers since late 2020 — with no additional budgetary costs. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Maui

State plans to launch study on highway realignment. Public input sought ahead of environmental impact statement processImprovements to a highly traversed coastal highway are being forged by the state Department of Transportation to mitigate the impacts of shoreline erosion between Ukumehame to Launiupoko. Maui News.

Visitors to Maui down, but spending up in October and YTD. There were 228,071 visitors to Maui in October 2022 compared to 238,043 visitors (-4.2%) in October 2019, down -4.2%, according to new data released by the state Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i county repairs Nawiliwili parking lot damaged by high surf. The Department of Parks and Recreation announced Monday that a portion of the parking lot at Nawiliwili Park fronting Kalapaki Bay in Lihu‘e, will be closed starting Tuesday for repairs due to damage caused by the high surf over the weekend. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Green appoints first staffers, Bezos donates $7.5M to Oahu and Maui homeless efforts, new women's dorm coming to Maui jail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor-elect Green appoints 8 women to key positions in his administration. Hawaiʻi Governor-elect Josh Green announced Tuesday evening the appointments of eight “strong women” to his administration. They include chief of staff, Brooke Wilson, who had served in the same position when he was Hawaiʻi’s lieutenant governor. Big Island Now. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Josh Green Names Longtime Advocate To Be New Hawaii Housing Chief. Some two weeks before he is due to be sworn in, Gov.-elect Josh Green said Tuesday that longtime advocate Nani Medeiros will be the state’s new housing chief as his new Cabinet starts to take shape. Civil Beat.

Jeff Bezos donates $7.5M to fight homelessness in Hawaii. Two Hawaii nonprofits have received a total of $7.5 million in grants from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’s Day 1 Families Fund. On Oahu, Family Promise of Hawaii received $2.5 million — the largest private grant the organization has ever received. Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Centers, Maui’s largest homeless shelter provider, received a $5 million grant. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Space Force establishes its first regional command in Hawaii. The newest branch of the U.S. military opened its first regional command Tuesday in Hawaii: U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Thanksgiving travel bustling, but Hawaii eyeing weak festive season. The holiday rush is back this year with travelers nationwide expected to catch planes for Thanksgiving and the festive season in numbers not seen in years — although Hawaii’s visitor industry reports that fewer visitors are headed here for vacations. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Discussion progresses on UH tuition increase. The University of Hawaiʻi will hold two more meetings to discuss raising tuition for both residents and non residents at three of its campuses. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Gov.-elect Green, Mayor Blangiardi team up on housing push. Gov.-elect Josh Green and Mayor Rick Blangiardi on Tuesday asked the owners of thousands of illegal Oahu rental units to help ease the island’s affordable housing and homeless crises by renting to local families instead of tourists as both named new housing directors to lead state and city housing efforts. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu to get new affordable housing chief. State Finance Director Craig Hirai will be joining the city of Honolulu in a new position known as chief of affordable housing policy and strategy, it was announced today. Star-Advertiser.

With a long local waitlist, ‘portability’ of Section 8 vouchers from other states draws concern. Anton Krucky, director of Community Services for the city, said there are currently 532 people on Oahu that are waiting for a Section 8 voucher. Hawaii News Now.

Rules for concealed-carry weapon license are finalized. Honolulu police will process applications and likely issue a first batch of concealed-carry weapon licenses before the City Council votes on legislation that outlines where guns can and cannot be carried on Oahu, police Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan confirmed Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Hundreds Of Honolulu Residential High Rises Fail To Meet ‘Acceptable’ Fire Safety Standards. A new report on the results of comprehensive safety evaluations was recently shared with the Honolulu City Council. Very few high rises have fire sprinkler systems. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Top cop search down to 5. The number of candidates in the running to become Hawaii County’s top cop is down to five. Charisse Correa, secretary for the Hawaii County Police Commission,  said Tuesday the commission is “seeking permission right now to unmask their names.” Tribune-Herald.

Solar projects to benefit low- and moderate-income electric customers. A trio of solar projects slated for West Hawaii will be the first on Hawaii Island to offer Hawaiian Electric’s shared solar program. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will host two meetings next week on the Big Island. Through a pair of public meetings, HTA will present the agency’s progress in fulfilling the goals of its Destination Management Action Plan for the Big Island, which it released in early 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor Renovations Begin Next Week. The boat ramp will remain open during the work, which includes new asphalt pavement, drainage improvements, and new, solar powered streetlights. Big Island Video News.

Maui

New women’s dorm at MCCC is expected to help alleviate overcrowding at the Maui jail. The state Department of Public Safety held a ceremonial groundbreaking today to mark the start of construction of a new medium security housing structure for female inmates at the Maui Community Correctional Center. Maui Now.

DOH approves third medical cannabis retail dispensary for Pono Life Sciences on Maui. The Hawai‘i State Department of Health has issued a formal notice to proceed to retail to Pono Life Sciences Maui, LLC (PONO LIFE MAUI) after it passed a final on-site inspection for its third retail facility on the Valley Isle. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Electric selects 3 solar projects on Maui to benefit low/moderate income customers. The program, which also is known as community-based renewable energy or CBRE, also is for customers who are unable to install privately-owned rooftop solar. Maui Now.

Kauai

Millions released for Kaua‘i improvement projects. Outgoing Gov. David Ige announced on Monday the release of $392 million in funds for capital improvement projects, including millions for a range of projects on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

DMV customers encouraged to make appointments. In a move aimed at providing more efficient service through the holiday season, the county Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging customers to make an appointment. Garden Island.

IBEW union boss found guilty of embezzlement, HPD faces backlog of 600 concealed carry applications, Blangiardi hires collection agency to enforce short-term vacation rental laws, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former union boss of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union 1260 Brian Ahakuelo convicted of wire fraud, embezzlement. The former business manager of a Hawaii labor union accused by federal prosecutors of rigging a vote to raise dues and using members’ money to fund his family’s opulent lifestyle — including a multimonth excursion to Las Vegas — was found guilty on all counts Monday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

One-third of Hawaii homeless and evictions are kupuna. A new analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data by AARP has estimated that Hawaii has 5,116 homeless adults — about one-third of whom are kupuna 55 years or older. Star-Advertiser.

Flu, RSV cases on the rise. Virus season hit Hawaii early this year, with cases of flu and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, increasing in October and November. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

HPD to begin processing concealed carry permits after approval of new gun rules. The Honolulu Police Department will start processing permits for civilians to carry concealed firearms starting Monday, but applicants facing a daunting list of requirements to get approved. There are already 600 permit applications pending, according to the department. Hawaii News Now.

City to ramp up enforcement of fines for illegal Oahu vacation rentals. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi put owners and operators of illegal vacation rentals on notice Monday that the city is hiring a collection agency to handle the fines —up to $10,000 per day. Star-Advertiser.

‘Red Hill clinic’ set up for Oahu families affected by crisis. One year after jet fuel from the Navy’s underground Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility contaminated the service’s Oahu water system, which serves 93,000 people, military officials say they are pushing to remove the fuel from the site and take care of those whose health has been affected. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Transparency at HPD questioned after rising violent crime stats kept out of Waikiki safety summit talk. If you attended the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association’s Waikiki Safety Summit last week you might have left with an entirely different impression of crime in the state’s no. 1 tourist destination. Hawaii News Now.

Some Honolulu Neighborhood Boards Are Looking For New In-Person Meeting Spots. Board members are confused about why. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Nonprofit To Begin Dredging Of Loko Ea Fishpond. The sediment drawn from the bottom will be used to rebuild banks that have eroded over the decades, according to the organization. Civil Beat.

Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park holds reopening ceremony in Chinatown. A reopening ceremony was held Monday at Chinatown’s Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park after it had been closed for renovations since November 2019. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County to partner with two ‘mentor’ cities to explore hydrogen energy opportunities. Hawaii County is partnering with cities in California and Japan to develop hydrogen energy technology as the state transitions toward carbon neutrality. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Sent At Least 10 Foster Children To An Abusive Home At The Center Of A Drug Ring. At least a decade ago, Hawaii Child Welfare Services starting sending foster children to live in the Hilo home of Yvonne and Paul Caitano. Civil Beat.

Kaloko property in ‘zoning limbo’ gets another chance. A 21-acre Kaloko Drive parcel that had been approved for rezoning 24 years ago got a new lease on life recently, when the Leeward Planning Commission agreed to a five-year time extension for the new owners to complete the conditions of the rezoning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui's homeless solutions committee outlines critical plans for leadership. The volunteer-based Commission on Healing Solutions for Homelessness on Maui has been operational for about 18 months, but most of that time has been spent without leadership and a place to meet that would keep in compliance with Sunshine Laws. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui County led Hawai’i in revenue per available rooms at $344 for October 2022. Hawai‘i hotels statewide reported stronger revenue per available room (RevPAR), and average daily rate (ADR) and occupancy rate in October 2022 compared to October 2021. Maui Now.

Kauai

Home sales slow in October. A steep rise in mortgage interest rates over the last year continued to wreak havoc with housing markets across the country, including Kaua‘i, where home sales slowed to a crawl in the first full month of fall. Garden Island.

County offices to be closed for Thanksgiving. Regular business hours for county offices and services will resume Nov. 25. Kauai Now.

More Hawaii precincts favor GOP, affordable housing funding rejected by Honolulu voters, new permit requirement for lay nets, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Precinct map showing GOP gubernatorial victories ©2022 All Hawaii News

Precinct analysis: Big Islanders loyal to the Democrat, despite minor Republican renaissance. The Big Island was the best island for Gov.-elect Josh Green, delivering the largest percentage of its votes and helping propel the former Kona Democrat to the state’s highest office with a solid victory over his Republican opponent, James “Duke” Aiona. West Hawaii Today.

As he prepares for inauguration, Green heads to Japan in bid to promote Hawaii tourism. Gov.-elect Josh Green is headed to Japan to meet with government officials and travel industry executives in hopes of promoting Hawaii’s tourism industry. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Lawmakers Honored Federal Lobbyist Despite Her Conviction In A Foreign Lobbying Scandal. The legislative action for Nickie Lum Davis recently surfaced in sentencing documents. It illustrates the sometimes loose practice around honorary certificates. Civil Beat.

National $22.5M grant to help Hawaiʻi researchers study health disparities. Researchers from the University of Hawaiʻi and the John A. Burns School of Medicine hope to make an impact by studying health disparities impacting Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders and other ethnic groups. Hawaii Public Radio.

Permits Now Required For Lay Net Use In Hawaiʻi. The Hawaiʻi land board voted to eliminate the requirement that lay net fishers register each lay net with the department, and require one permit to use lay nets in general. Big Island Video News.

Scientists still unlocking mysteries of Hawaii’s humpback whales. Humpback whales, the winter stars of Hawaii’s marine environment, have been arriving and leaving island waters earlier than normal in recent years, according to a trend documented by scientists. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Concerns about flexibility helped sink affordable housing amendment. The failed amendment would have raised the amount of real property tax directed to the Affordable Housing Fund from 0.5% to 1%, or from about $8 million to $16 million. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council elections retain political leanings. The incoming Honolulu City Council had the potential to take a hard right turn in this year’s election but instead will retain its political balance when three new Councilmembers are sworn in Jan. 3. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council To Take Up Restricting Guns In ‘Sensitive Places’. The City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting Nov. 29 to hear a bill that would restrict weapons from being carried in schools and other public places. Civil Beat.

Oahu problem properties owe $130 million in building fines to city. The city is owed over $130 million for building violations involving Oahu properties with outstanding fines over $100,000, according to Department of Planning and Permitting data. Star-Advertiser.

Plans move forward for $100M renovation of ‘antiquated’ Honolulu Hale. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is proposing relocating city government to a high rise to make room for a $100 million renovation of Honolulu Hale. Hawaii News Now.

New Aloha Stadium plan proponents put hopes in Gov.-elect Green. Leaders of surrounding communities and state officials, including Stadium Authority board members, say they are optimistic that Gov.-elect Josh Green will allow resumption of work on requests for proposals for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District when he takes office in December. Star-Advertiser.

Felons violating probation threaten Hawaii’s public safety. Public safety in Honolulu is being threatened by convicted felons violating probation without any penalties because a program designed to keep high-risk probationers from committing new crimes by imposing immediate sanctions isn’t being run right, Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm said. Star-Advertiser.

Koko Crater Stables: Gunfight At The Not-So-OK Corral. After a four-year contest between battling horsewomen, the city has awarded the contract for the Koko Crater Stables to a new bidder. Civil Beat.

Concerns Over Leadership At St. Louis School Prompt Resignations, Investigation. Board members said they’ve taken steps to improve the situation, but not before a slew of departures.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

County bills would reduce requirements for director positions. Hawaii County’s hiring criteria for directors of the departments of Public Works and Environmental Management could be loosened by a pair of bills to be discussed at County Council committee meetings this week. Tribune-Herald.

State officials, Hawaiian activists voice concern over Army’s Pohakuloa training site. The Army is hoping to maintain the Pohakuloa Training Area as its 65-year lease on a parcel of state land that makes up a key part of the range nears expiration. Star-Advertiser.

County hires security for Waipi‘o Valley Lookout. Citing concerns about rockfalls, Roth closed Waipi‘o Valley Road by emergency proclamation on Feb. 25 to all but a handful of people, including valley residents and farmers. Tribune-Herald.

820 seek lava buyouts: Final application phase for county’s Kilauea disaster recovery program closes. More than 800 victims of the 2018 Kilauea eruption are hoping Hawaii County will buy their properties after the final application phase for the Voluntary Housing Buyout Program ended last month. Tribune-Herald.

Laupahoehoe ramp restoration a county priority. The ramp is the only point for boats to access the ocean between Hilo and Kawaihae, and was closed by Hawaii County in 2009 because of extensive wear from the surf. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

In open council races, candidates overcame criticism of campaign donations. Some of this year’s top fundraising candidates will take council seats. Nohe U’u-Hodgins and Tom Cook, the two candidates who won the Maui County Council’s only open seats, survived criticism over their large amount of campaign donations and challenges by progressive candidates who banded together to campaign. Maui News.

Kulahaven Farms, rainbow trout aquaponics farm to close at year’s end. Kulahaven Farms LLC, Hawaiʻi’s first, and only, rainbow trout aquaponics farm will be closing operations by the end of this year, the business announced. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Experts: Watch out for the whales with season underway. Last migration season saw record entanglements. As Maui heads into whale season, researchers and conservationists will be on the lookout for whales in distress after a record season of responding to entanglements. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua’i police celebrate its five forensic nurses. Kaua‘i police held a special ceremony Thursday to celebrate the department’s five forensic nurses during Forensic Nurses Week. Kauai Now. Garden Island.

Additional lane closures scheduled as Kapa‘a roundabout construction continues. Additional lane closures and detours are scheduled this week in Kapa‘a as construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Mailihuna Road, Hau‘a‘ala Road and Kawaihau Road continues. Kauai Now.