Some restaurants add 10% 'supply chain' surcharge, Hawaii law school treats Supreme Court justices to luxurious trips, Waikiki church told to quit feeding homeless, nepotism law goes into effect, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Some Hawaii restaurants now adding 10% Supply Chain fee. Some restaurants are now adding a 10% charge to your check, calling it a Supply Chain Adjustment. In some cases, customers don’t know about it until they get the check. KHON2.

UH law school not alone in offering luxury trips to Supreme Court justices. Supreme Court justices and donors mingle at campus visits. For decades, the University of Hawaii law school has marketed its Jurist-In-Residence program to the Supreme Court as an all-expenses-paid getaway, with the upside of considerable “down time” in paradise. Associated Press.

Anti-nepotism law takes effect in Hawaii.  A new law took effect Tuesday prohibiting nepotism across state government — particularly for the 60,000 employees in the executive branch — but notably exempts the state Legislature and Judiciary. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii ahead of the pack in installation of EV fast chargers. Hawaii is the first out of the gate to award a contract for federally funded fast chargers to be deployed across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii ranks 2nd in the nation for fatal crashes involving distracted driving. A new analysis shows Hawaii has the second highest rate of fatal crashes involving distracted drivers in the nation, just behind New Mexico. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Department of Public Safety names new corrections deputy director.  Sanna Munoz, who had served as the domestic violence unit probation supervisor for the state Judiciary Adult Client Services Branch in the Third Circuit, will serve in her new role starting Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

As trash continues to pile, Oʻahu and Kauaʻi officials discuss landfill siting options.   Landfill siting on Oʻahu and Kauaʻi hit roadblocks with Act 73, which created buffer zones and limitations on potential new sites. Hawaii Public Radio.

Struggles continue despite more positive outlook on COVID-19 pandemic. Results from the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization’s third public-health report, released today, reflect a more positive outlook on the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Facing ‘heavy-handed’ city pressure, Waikiki church will stop its daily free meal service.  A Waikiki church that’s been serving free meals to the needy for more than five decades says it will end its daily lunch line at the end of the week. Hawaii News Now.

Navy Awards Red Hill Contract To Company Just Raided By Feds . The Navy said on Tuesday that it has officially parted ways with a contractor the military blames for spilling firefighting chemicals at Red Hill last year.  Civil Beat.

City suspends another reviewer who cleared ‘monster home’ plans. The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting has suspended the registration of another third-party reviewer who approved plans for “monster house” projects that are not in compliance with city ordinances. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Tells Tow Company To Stop Charging $900 Fees. The City and County of Honolulu has told its towing contractor to temporarily stop charging an additional tow fee while it investigates all the instances it has been applied this year. Civil Beat.

Care facility nurses announce 7-day strike amid ‘shameful’ wage dispute. Nurses and nurses aides at Oahu Care Facility in McCully-Moiliili have announced a seven-day strike amid an ongoing wage dispute. Hawaii News Now.

DHHL holds groundbreaking ceremony for East Kapolei housing developments.  The first phase of development will consist of 127 single-family residential lots across 24 acres. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Kimo Alameda to announce 2024 run for Hawai‘i County mayor.  Kimo Alameda, who has been lead of the Hawai‘i Island Fentanyl Task Force and vice president of business development for Hawai‘i Island Community Health Center since 2022, is stepping away from those roles to pursue a bid to become the next mayor of Hawai‘i County in 2024. Big Island Now.

New pilot program aims to encourage pono behavior.  A partnership between the Hawaii Tourism Authority, Hawaii County and the Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau announced two conjoined programs that will employ local stewards to educate visitors to Richardson and Lehia beach parks in Keaukaha. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawai’i County unveils first hybrid hydrogen- and electric-powered bus.  When Hawai’i County officials unveiled the Big Island’s first hybrid hydrogen and electric bus, people were pleased by the soft sound, clean air and lack of nauseous gases. Big Island Now.

Hilo resiliency hub clears final EA.  The Keaukaha Pana‘ewa Farmers Association plans to build a “resiliency and agricultural innovation hub” on Railroad Avenue on the same state-owned 10-acre parcel where the Pana‘ewa Farmers Market is held every Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

What to do with a gas tax with so many EVs on the road? Maui eyes a ‘road usage charge’.  Maui County Councilmembers discussed a new state charge on Tuesday that could also be implemented on the county level. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

DesJardins sworn in as first deputy corporation counsel.  Mimi DesJardins, a former judge and longtime attorney who ran a solo law practice for 20 years, was sworn in June 30 as first deputy corporation counsel for Maui County. Maui News.

New youth shelter in Wailuku will offer mentorship and temporary housing. Hale Pono teen shelter is located in Wailuku and will offer 13 beds for youth ages 12 to 17.  Hawaii Public Radio. Maui Now.

Maui Brewing Company in Lahaina closed due to roach, rodent infestation.  The restaurant, located at 4405 Honoapiilani Highway, received a red placard on Monday by the DOH Maui Food Safety Branch.  Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  KITV4.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative to hold annual membership meeting on July 20.  Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative members are invited to attend the cooperative’s annual meeting on July 20 at the Kauaʻi Philippine Cultural Center in Puhi. Kauai Now.

Almarza named Kaua‘i United Way executive director.  Lori L. Almarza is the Kaua‘i United Way executive director, announced the board of directors of Kaua‘i United Way on July 5. Garden Island.

New laws to reduce rents, send homeless back to mainland; taxpayers no longer on the hook in HPD chase case, state to regulate deep-sea mining, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New laws signed to increase affordable housing, return homeless to mainland. Gov. Josh Green signed a suite of bills Wednesday approved by the state Legislature aimed at creating more affordable housing, returning homeless people to the mainland and reducing housing rents. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii’s Critical Data Is At Risk From Flooding. So Why Wait To Move It? Hawaii's IT agency has been asking for funding to move but some state officials think it's better to wait years for a new proposed tech center to be built. Civil Beat.

State to begin deep-sea mining regulation by monitoring vessel access. Gov. Josh Green has signed a law that gives the state Department of Transportation the ability to delay or deny entry and departure for any vessel that is known to have engaged in illegal deep-sea activity. Hawaii Public Radio.

He Was A Solar Industry Advocate. Now He’s On The PUC. That Doesn’t Sit Well With Hawaiian Electric. Colin Yost says he's committed to fairness and impartiality in decision-making including when it comes to the state's largest electric company. Civil Beat.

Group aims to decrease recidivism to Hawaii’s prisons.  In one year, an estimated 15,000 people are booked into local jails and prisons throughout Hawaii. KITV4.

Native Hawaiians weigh in on federal funds, protections. Bipartisan staff of the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs were at the first Western Regional Native Hawaiian Convention held in Las Vegas to highlight that Congress has secured hundreds of millions of dollars in dedicated federal funding, the most ever, for Native Hawaiians and to seek input on amending legislation to extend protection to Native Hawaiian art and artists for the first time. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Judge to decide whether top Navy officer can be deposed. A federal judge is expected to decide soon whether Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of the Navy’s Pacific Fleet, will have to sit for a deposition in a civil lawsuit brought by military and civilian families whose drinking water was contaminated with jet fuel from the Navy’s Red Hill fuel facility in November 2021. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

HPD Cops In Makaha Pursuit Case Withdraw Requests For Publicly Funded Legal Assistance. The department's Professional Standards Office has completed its investigation into the incident. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Amid mounting safety concerns, a favorite swim spot is again facing demolition. A favorite swim spot may be a thing of the past by late 2024. The protected swimming cove known as Cromwells is popular with people seeking both tranquility and thrills — from jumping off surrounding sea walls. Hawaii News Now.

Thrill seekers jumping into polluted Ala Wai Canal waters spark major health concerns. Video posted from a highrise on Monday shows someone in a chair being pushed off the platform at the McCully Bridge into the brown waters of the canal. In another video, you can hear a man shocked by what he just saw: A woman swimming in the waterway. Hawaii News Now.

High bacteria alert issued at Kuhio Beach in Waikiki. During routine monitoring this morning, the department’s Clean Water Branch found levels of enterococci that exceeded the threshold, at 408 per 100 milliliters. The threshold for recreational waters is at 130 per 100 milliliters. Star-Advertiser.

City to hold in-person event for rental and utility relief applications. The City and County of Honolulu’s Rental and Utility Relief Program has closed its online portal. The city, Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi, and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement will be holding an event for new applicants to apply in-person at Hauʻula Community Center on Saturday from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. Hawaii Public Radio

Bell Tolls For Historic Iron Ship Docked In Honolulu Harbor. The 145-year-old vessel Falls of Clyde will be scrapped or scuttled after years of neglect. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Proposed Hawaiʻi County office of sustainability, climate moving forward. Council members voted 5-1 to approve the first reading of Bill 48, which would create by ordinance a new Hawai’i County Office of Sustainability, Climate, Equity and Resilience and a new Chapter 37 in county code that lays out its responsibilities.  Big Island Now.

Stolen Merrie Monarch items recovered; two men arrested.  The stolen items were recovered during a police investigation into a criminal trespass case that resulted in two men, 36-year-old Dayson Eblacas of Ewa Beach, Oahu, and 30-year-old Makua Amituanai of Pahoa being arrested. Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

7-Eleven Hawaii, the EPA reach agreement regarding cesspools. Under terms of the settlement, the company has agreed to audit all of its properties for the presence of large capacity cesspools, or LCCs, after the EPA discovered three LCCs serving 7-Eleven locations on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea eruption: ‘Deciding whether it’s over is a dynamic question’.  With another Kilauea eruption on pause, geologists are unsure when the volcano will resume activity. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Agriculture Department adds staff, doles out grants. Director also in talks with DOE to get more local food in schools. Maui County’s first-ever Department of Agriculture is slowly expanding as the new directors begin to hire specialists, build programs and plan for Maui’s future in sustainability and food security. Maui News.

Committee to discuss Maui general excise tax surcharge, June 26.  The Maui County Council’s Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee will meet Monday at 6 p.m. to discuss and receive input on Bill 49 (2023)—which, if approved, would add a 0.5% surcharge on the 4% state general excise tax. Maui Now.

Bissen travels to DC, talks interisland transportation with congressional leaders.  Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen traveled to Washington, D.C., last week to meet with Hawaii’s congressional leaders and promote products from local businesses at the Capitol.  Maui News.

Kauai

Upcoming Kauaʻi budget is paying off debts and lowering residential taxes.  Ahead of the new county fiscal year in July, and Mayor Derek Kawakami signed the legislation last week. Key points of the County of Kauaʻi’s $400 million budget are infrastructure, tax relief and paying off debt. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaua‘i Habitat breaks ground on 17 Waipouli units.  Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity broke ground on its latest project — Kauhale O Waipouli — on Wednesday, with the ceremony officiated by Kahu Ipo Kahaunaele Ferreira, herself a Habitat homeowner. Garden Island.

Report: Kauai Backslides In At-Home Disaster Preparedness. A significant number of households have less emergency food and water supplies in the aftermath of the pandemic. Civil Beat. Kauai Now.

Military releases video of Pearl Harbor-based destroyer’s close call with Chinese warship, older SNAP beneficiaries may be required to work, ACLU threatens lawsuit in Big Island homeless sweeps, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

Video shows Pearl Harbor-based destroyer’s close call with Chinese warship. The United States military released video Monday of what it called an “unsafe” Chinese maneuver in the Taiwan Strait over the weekend, in which a Chinese navy ship cut sharply across the path of an American destroyer, forcing the U.S. vessel to slow to avoid a collision. Associated Press.

West Coast port trouble raises Hawaii shipping concerns. Dockworker labor difficulties flared up over the past few days at West Coast ports, but after largely settling down Monday, no major disruptions are expected for Hawaii ocean cargo deliveries. Star-Advertiser.

Will Hawaii residents see changes in SNAP requirements?...maybe. Thousands more Hawaii residents could be returning to jobs, as the federal government raises the work requirement for SNAP beneficiaries from age 49 to age 54. KITV4.

Oahu

Oahu homeowners might get $350 tax credit. The Honolulu City Council’s pending approval Wednesday of Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s proposed $3.41 billion operating budget for next fiscal year might include a $300 one-time tax credit the administration seeks to give to nearly 152,000 qualifying homeowners, a city official said. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s Why The Salary Commission Thinks Big Raises For The Honolulu Council Are Warranted. Commission members say the pay for elected officials should reflect the jobs they do. Civil Beat.

New Red Hill Defueling Deal With EPA Provides Little Accountability. Residents will get to talk with the military about emptying the tanks but are unlikely to see anyone punished for previous violations. Civil Beat.

People with disabilities give feedback about the accessibility of the Honolulu rail. The city is set to take control of the first segment of Honolulu’s rail system on Friday. Honolulu transportation officials hosted a couple dozen members of the disabled community last week to get feedback about accessibility on the train and its stations. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

‘Startling’ number of officer vacancies at HPD spur public safety concerns. The Honolulu Police Department is scrambling to hire hundreds of police officers, a critical shortage that a former deputy chief says could be impacting the agency’s ability to respond to crime. Hawaii News Now.

City to replace viewing platform atop Koko Crater Stairs. City officials today announced that a project to replace the dilapidated viewing platform at the summit of the popular Koko Crater Stairs hike begins this week. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Central Oahu Regional Park closure for maintenance planned. One of the largest city parks on the island will see closures this summer for the upkeep of its baseball and softball fields, the city announced recently. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

ACLU criticizes county, threatens legal action over homeless sweeps. The ACLU has issued a letter to Hawaii County demanding that it stop evicting homeless encampments without providing adequate shelter space — or face legal action. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Almost 4 of 5 fire dispatch recruits wash out. In the five-year period between 2018 and 2022, almost 80% — 14 of 18 — of the Hawaii Fire Department’s new dispatcher hires washed out, according to statistics provided by HFD. Tribune-Herald.

Relocation of Waikoloa cats ‘going well so far’: Rescue effort finds homes for dozens. Last month, volunteers with local rescue agencies Aloha Animal Oasis and Hawaii Animal Kuleana Alliance teamed up May 19 to May 22 to capture 64 cats from the Queens’ Marketplace in Waikoloa. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Condo Owners Are Trying To Buy Time In The Fight Against Rising Seas. A lengthy hearing Monday left County Council members with unanswered questions about using a new financing tool to replenish the beach. Civil Beat.

County close to buying Wailuku building as it aims to cut rent costs. Trask building latest in county’s efforts to rent less, own moreMaui County is close to purchasing another building in Wailuku town that it hopes will help cut down on the rent it pays for office space. Maui News.

MPD takes lead providing services to growing homeless camp. It started as an idea by Maui police officers. The Department of Transportation donated a decommissioned bus, and MPD used COVID funding to retrofit it to make it possible. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Coconut Rhinoceros Beetles Make Landfall On Kauai. The invasive insect has decimated the Pacific's coconut palm populations. Now it's been found on Kauai. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kaua‘i’s Nawiliwili Stream ranked nation’s most frequently polluted beach. Kalapaki Bay’s Nawiliwili Stream is the most consistently overpolluted beach tested by national environmental group Surfrider Foundation, according to the group’s annual report on water quality. Garden Island.

Affordable housing advocates want state to purchase Waipouli apartments. Affordable housing advocates are asking state and county lawmakers to purchase the Courtyards at Waipouli apartments and make a 60-year commitment to securing all 82 units as affordable housing. Garden Island.

Kapaʻa residents urge state to award low-income tax credits. Property owners are requesting funding through the HHFDC’s low-income housing tax credit application. The state agency has financed more than 200 units across four projects on Kauaʻi since last year, including 66 units on Rice Street, the 96-unit Uahi Ridge project, and two ʻEleʻele developments, including the 48-unit Kai Olino project and the Lima Ola project. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii to fly homeless back to the mainland, another mystery balloon spotted off islands, Legislature mulls gun control bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii to pay to return homeless people back to mainland. The Hawaii-backed plan to provide $100,000 in airfare over each of the next two fiscal years to send homeless people back to the mainland underscores the persistent urban legend that Hawaii’s homeless population is driven by cities, counties and state governments on the mainland that send their homeless people to the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers construct statewide sensitive places, gun safety bill. Senate Bill 1230 is the state Legislature’s encompassing gun legislation measure, which would define where concealed carry firearms are not allowed and add new provisions on concealed carry laws. Hawaii Public Radio.

Military: Balloon recently spotted off Hawaii not a threat. The U.S. military tracked an unidentified balloon transiting through Hawaii’s airspace over the weekend, but have so far determined that the object poses no threat either to civilian aircraft or national security. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii's 2023 legislative session will end on Thursday, when lawmakers will take final votes on hundreds of bills. To prepare for that, lawmakers were busy Monday making sure the final wording is right on bills and any last minute problems have been corrected. KITV4.

Hawaii doctors who treat Medicaid patients to get significant pay raise. Many Hawaii doctors will be getting a pay raise thanks to the state Legislature. Experts say new rates for treating Medicaid patients will keep some doctors from leaving the business of medicine. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers pass bill ensuring schools provide timely learning materials to blind students. State lawmakers have reached an agreement on a bill that ensures blind students in public schools receive timely learning materials. That means textbooks, posters and audio recordings will be provided to students in braille and tactile graphics. Hawaii Public Radio.

Food And Farming Advocates Look To State Budget After Mixed Results This Session. The number of bills aimed at revitalizing Hawaii’s agriculture sector that have passed through conference committees both deflated and buoyed industry advocates, and they now wait for the full state budget to understand what the industry will take from this legislative session.  Civil Beat.

HTA survives another takedown attempt by lawmakers amidst dwindling funds. A bill that would have disbanded Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority to create a new destination management agency was deferred Friday, after a long life in the state Legislature.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Visitors to Hawaii won’t pay more ‘green fees’ for now. Hawaii won’t impose new fees after all on tourists who want to visit more of the state’s most popular state parks and trails. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. Garden Island.

So-called clean elections bills dies ‘in the shadows’ of the Legislature. A state Senate bill pushing for publicly financed elections, or “clean elections,” died Friday during a conference committee meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

More Oahu Beaches Would Be Open To Business Under Mayor’s Plan. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is heading for a showdown with North Shore and Windward Oahu communities over his plan to create an island-wide commercial use system that would wind back established protections for some of the island’s most photogenic and popular beaches. Civil Beat.

All 10 red-light cameras on Oahu have been activated. All 10 red-light safety cameras that are part of the state’s two-year pilot program Opens in a new tab on Oahu are now activated, according to the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii officials seek to quell concerns about unsafe drinking water at school. For weeks, community members and state lawmakers representing Ewa Beach have been soliciting donations of bottled water for students at Iroquois Point Elementary School amid myriad concerns about unsafe drinking water due to either lingering effects of the 2021 Red Hill water crisis or the detection in 2022 of unsafe lead levels in a number of the school’s water fountains and sinks. Star-Advertiser.

More Honolulu water sources sought. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply is still trying to find new water sources to make up for the capacity it lost after the 2021 Red Hill water crisis prompted it to take its Halawa shaft and two smaller wells offline to ensure jet fuel didn’t make its way into the public drinking water system.  Star-Advertiser.

City, HPD create new database for bikes reported stolen amid uptick in thefts. The Honolulu Police Department now has a new database of bicycles that have been reported stolen. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi County Mayor Names New Department Execs. Frecia Cevallos has been appointed Deputy Director of the Department of Research and Development, while Robert Ewbank has been named Director of the Department of Information Technology. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Funding for preferred boat ramp option not in state budget. The plan to reopen the Pohoiki Boat Ramp has gone sideways after a funding snafu, Big Island lawmakers said. Tribune-Herald.

Five years after eruption, rebuilding takes hold for USGS, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Thomas Jaggar Museum held a lot of memories for visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. But the building on Uekahuna Bluff overlooking the Kilauea caldera will be coming down this summer, another casualty of the 2018 eruption. Hawaii News Now.

Waikoloa Solar + Storage Project Goes Online. Hawaiian Electric says the AES Corporation’s Waikoloa Solar + Storage project is now feeding lower-cost renewable energy to the Hawai‘i Island electric grid. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Molokai property to be added to state legacy land. Two properties on Oahu, one on Kauai, and one on Molokai are being added to the 2023 Department of Land and Natural Resources Legacy Land Conservation Program after the Board of Land and Natural Resources approved $6.35 million in grant awards from the Land Conservation Fund to acquire these properties. Maui News.

Wailea hotels enjoy high revenues but lag in occupancy. In March, Wailea hotels brought in the most revenue across the state, but also saw some of the lowest occupancy rates in Hawaii, according to a recently released Hawai’i Hotel Performance Report. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i issues $25 million bond for affordable housing project. The largest affordable housing project ever undertaken by the County of Kaua‘i received a major financial boost on April 26 with the county council’s approval of a $25 million bond issuance. Garden Island.

Army seeks to renew military land leases, legislators reach tentative tax break deal, governor proposes expansion of homeless villages, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Military training areas in Hawaii under scrutiny. Several state lawmakers and mayors toured Army facilities Monday and witnessed training on Oahu and Hawaii Island with Gen. Charles Flynn, the service’s top commander in the Pacific. The Army has been proactively preparing for what could be a fight to renew leases on state land that the military trains on, which are set to expire in 2029.  Star-Advertiser.

Tentative deal reached on tax breaks as legislative session enters home stretch.  Key lawmakers say they have reached a tentative agreement on tax breaks for Hawaii residents. The news comes as the legislative session enters the home stretch Monday, with the first formal negotiation session over the $20 billion state budget. Hawaii News Now.

Green’s First Veto: A Condo Bill That Could Have Increased The Cost Of Housing. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green issued the first veto of his administration on Friday, rejecting a bill that was supposed to clarify an unusual scenario in which condominium owners sued the developer of their project for construction flaws more than a decade after construction was finished. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Governor Plans To Develop More Tiny Home Villages Statewide. Gov. Josh Green promised more tiny home villages will be built around the state, regardless of opposition from local communities, as his administration tackles homelessness.  Civil Beat.

DOH urges vigilance following second case of measles on Oahu. The state Department of Health on Monday confirmed a second case of measles on Oahu. The resident was exposed to the previously confirmed case in an international traveler. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Oahu

Homeless ‘medical respite’ kauhale planned on Oahu.  Gov. Josh Green plans to expand his homeless kauhale village concept within a month to erect the state’s first “medical respite” kauhale for homeless people across from The Queen’s Medical Center “in my backyard” for eight to 10 homeless people at a time who disproportionately use emergency rooms only to end up back on the street, Green said. Star-Advertiser.

Controversial 6-foot-tall walls remain in latest Ala Wai flood mitigation proposal. The latest flood mitigation plan for the Ala Wai Canal is starting to take shape, and it still includes large walls that have been unpopular with the public. Hawaii Public Radio.

Conflict Of Interest? Neighborhood Board Employees Are Running For Seats On The Boards. Questions are being raised about whether as elected board members the employees can effectively question their bosses. Nine employees of the Honolulu Neighborhood Commission Office, the city agency that oversees Oahu’s 33 neighborhood boards, have signed up to run for elected seats on the boards themselves. Civil Beat.

Prominent Honolulu Condo Board Members Are On Trial For Alleged Retaliation. The lawsuits claims the Hokua board members used their positions to help themselves and each other without disclosing conflicts of interest. Testing a Hawaii law prohibiting retaliation by condominium boards, a trial began on Monday pitting a retired Army officer against several prominent members of Hawaii’s real estate and development community who served alongside the retired officer as directors of one of Honolulu’s landmark luxury condominiums. Civil Beat.

Bishop Museum probe ends with no findings. An investigation of the board of directors of Bishop Museum prompted by a formal complaint from loyalists of the ousted president and CEO has found no financial mismanagement or wrongdoing. Star-Advertiser.

Slew of rescues highlight hiker safety. After a series of hike rescues over the weekend, state officials are reminding people to take precautions, know their limits and be aware how hot it can get on exposed trails. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Green weighs in on feral cats: Governor sending DLNR chief to the Big Island following protest in Waikoloa. Gov. Josh Green said Monday he’s dispatching Department of Land and Natural Resources Director Dawn Chang to the Big Island today “to work out a peaceful solution” between DLNR, owners and mangers of the Queen’s Marketplace, and feral cat advocates who feed the felines behind the Waikoloa Beach shopping center. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i County seeking proposals for affordable housing funding. Up to $18 million will soon be available to qualified applicants working to increase, support, or sustain the availability of affordable housing in Hawaiʻi County. Big Island Now.

Draft EA offers more details about Pohoiki ramp dredging. The reopening of the Pohoiki Boat Ramp is one step closer after a draft environmental assessment for the dredging project was published Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Rules That Seek To Better Protect Maui’s Coastlines Will Take Effect Soon. Planning officials are paving the way for some big changes with how the local government controls development and construction projects close to and along Maui’s coastlines. Civil Beat.

Maui median home price is $1.2M, up 1.9% in March 2023. The last time Maui’s median was above $1.2 million was in June of 2022 when the median was $1.242M. Maui Now. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i police warn of ongoing thefts targeting residents and visitors. According to officials, a recent rash of car break-ins and thefts have occurred in residential neighborhoods islandwide. Kauai Now.

Red Hill families fill federal courtroom on lawsuits, unemployment dips, homeless up 20% on Big Island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Impacted families fill courtroom amid government’s push to consolidate Red Hill lawsuits. The U.S. government is asking a federal judge to consolidate a flurry of cases filed by families impacted by the Red Hill tainted water crisis. On Thursday, the federal courthouse was packed with Red Hill families and attorneys for both sides. Hawaii News Now.

Should Boats Have To Slow Down To Avoid Hitting Humpback Whales? New recommendations are directly aimed at tour boats and other small vessels, but they're currently voluntary. This year marks the first full whale season with the new, official guidelines for how fast boats should travel near humpback whales in Hawaiian waters, and state legislators are considering resolutions that urge regulators to make those recommended speeds mandatory. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s jobless rate dips to 8-month low of 3.5%. The seasonally adjusted rate in March was down from 3.6% in February and matched the U.S. rate for the month, according to data released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Green designates Nov. 28 as Lā Kūʻokoʻa, Hawaiian Independence Day. Gov. Josh Green signed into law Senate Bill 731 on Wednesday, which recognizes and commemorates Hawaiian Independence Day. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOH simplifies COVID vaccine recommendations. The state Department of Health is now recommending an additional dose of the bivalent booster against COVID-19 for those over the age of 65 and those at increased risk of severe infection. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Council and city spar over $3.41B budget. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration, proposing a $3.41 billion operating budget for the coming 2024 fiscal year, contends that recent City Council amendments to reduce it to 2022’s level are insufficient to keep the city running smoothly and should be abandoned. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s largest buildings to track energy, water and emissions. The owners of more than 450 buildings in Honolulu will have to report their yearly energy and water use this summer under a new city ordinance that aims to cut down on the use of natural resources and greenhouse gas emissions. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable rental project for seniors now accepting applications for lottery. The Halewaiolu Senior Residences on River Street will have 155 one and two-bedroom apartments for kupuna 62 and older who earn 30% to 80% of the area median income. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Cop Remains Armed And On Active Duty Despite Claiming Mental Health Issues In Lawsuit. A Navy officer had to turn in his firearms to HPD for lesser concerns. Civil Beat.

Maili mass shooting suspect Jacob A. Borge appears in court. A 23-year-old man charged in connection with a mass shooting in Maili where two people were killed and three others were wounded made his initial appearance at Honolulu District Court on Thursday. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. Hawaii News Now.

Koko Head Shooting Complex officially set to reopen after hiatus. Oʻahu’s only outdoor shooting complex will reopen next week. The range has been closed for nearly eight months due to reports of increased lead exposure from employees. Hawaii Public Radio.

Beachgoers urged to give space to monk seal Kaiwi and her pup. With Kaiwi nursing her weeks-old pup at popular Kaimana Beach, federal and state authorities once again ask the public to give them the recommended space — or visit a different Waikiki beach altogether. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Tally of homeless up nearly 20% in Hawaii County. The count, taken by community volunteers over a five-day period between Jan. 23-27, found 1,004 homeless people islandwide, compared to 837 counted in 2022. Tribune-Herald.

Chief: Officer ‘within two millimeters’ of being killed. A Kailua-Kona couple that led police on a manhunt from Captain Cook to Volcano on Thursday after allegedly shooting at three officers and carjacking a sport-utility vehicle surrendered without a fight after the SWAT unit surrounded a Volcano home, according to Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Waikoloa Maneuver Area UXO Removal Update. During a U.S. Senate Committee On Armed Services hearing on Wednesday, defense officials provided an update on unexploded ordnance removal efforts on Hawaiʻi Island. Big Island Video News.

Hundreds turn out for Experience PTA Day. Over 200 students from nearly half-a-dozen schools came out to enjoy the annual Experience PTA Day event Thursday at the Pohakuloa Training Area. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County faces $145K penalty over firefighter’s death. State cites ‘serious’ violations, says staff ‘not adequately trained’. Maui News.

Operation Keiki Shield on Maui nets nine arrests. Police say the individuals were arrested on charges related to internet-facilitated sexual offenses against children. All individual were being held on $100,000 bail each. Maui Now. KITV4.

Maui Space Surveillance Complex community forum on fuel spill recovery, April 26. The meeting comes following a 700 gallon diesel fuel spill at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex in January.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Department of Water announces $21.7M system improvements project. The Kalaheo Water System Improvements Project will be the department’s largest ever undertaking, and is expected to last from late May 2023 into 2025. Garden Island.

SpaceX Starship explodes after launch, will not land near Kaua‘i. The largest rocket ever built will not splash down off the coast of Kaua‘i as planned after it exploded over the Gulf of Mexico four minutes into its innagural flight. Garden Island.

Lawmakers advance bills fighting felony fraud, Elon Musk Starship may land near Kauai, homeless relocation bill advances, measles spotted on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Bribery scandal that rocked state Capitol could inspire powerful new laws aimed at fighting fraud. A sprawling government bribery scandal may lead to powerful new state laws against fraud based on the same federal statutes that sent two lawmakers in prison. Three proposed new laws would make it much easier to prove felony fraud or lying to government or in business transactions.  Hawaii News Now.

Priced-out Hawaii residents check out of paradise. Gov. Josh Green and state lawmakers frequently cite the ongoing threat of losing residents and are pushing legislation to help residents stay. With less than a month before the end of the legislative session, several measures designed to lower Hawaii’s cost of living remain alive. Star-Advertiser.

Proposed homeless relocation program flies to Senate floor for consideration. A bill at the state Legislature would create a three-year pilot program at the Department of Human Services to help people experiencing homelessness return to the continent, or other parts of the state, to rejoin their families. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fragments in Republican caucus lead to more bipartisan work for one state lawmaker. Republicans in the state House of Representatives tripled in size this session, from two to six members. In title, state Rep. Kanani Souza of Kapolei and Makakilo is the minority caucus whip, but she hasn’t attended minority caucus meetings since the end of January. Hawaii Public Radio.

Condo Management Giant’s License Is Reactivated By Hawaii Regulators. Following a regulatory compliance problem that rendered Associa Hawaii unable to practice in the state, the property management giant has come into compliance with state laws governing such firms, state records indicate. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi teens lead second youth climate change trial in US history. A climate change lawsuit brought by a group of Hawaiʻi's youth against the state Department of Transportation is moving ahead. It's now scheduled for a fall trial. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Health Department confirms measles in Oahu resident. State health officials are investigating a case of measles in an unvaccinated Oahu resident upon returning from international travel.  Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4. 

 Oahu

Honolulu City Council studying its own tax-relief measures. A slew of real property taxation measures that might offer tax credits, tax exemptions or other means to aid homeowners affected by the approximately 10% or greater increase in real property assessments on Oahu is under consideration by the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Why Does It Take So Long To Fire Bad Cops In Honolulu? Recent national stories report officers involved in shootings and other serious incidents are quickly fired. But in Hawaii final discipline can take years. Civil Beat.

Military to provide health care to civilians affected by Red Hill water. The Defense Health Agency announced Monday that it will begin evaluating — and potentially providing medical treatment to — civilians affected by the Red Hill water crisis from now until March 10 on a “space available” basis. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Bishop Museum seeks recurring funding. State officials are working to establish annual funding for Bishop Museum to support and help stabilize Hawaii’s flagship repository of Hawaiian culture, science and community as it moves forward under its fourth CEO in the past seven years. Star-Advertiser.

Cirque du Soleil planning new show in Waikiki. Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group and Outrigger Hospitality Group have some high- flying news: They’ve entered into a joint venture that will add Hawaii next year to Cirque’s shortlist of destinations with shows in residence. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

DOE Looking Into Financial Records Of Kailua School Composting Program. Proceeds from compost sales to the public are kept by the partner schools. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Grand Naniloa woes linger: Owners again seek permission to refinance loan. The beleaguered owners of the Grand Naniloa Hotel are once again requesting to refinance its mortgage to the tune of $54 million. Tribune-Herald.

Merrie Monarch Festival attendees urged not to transport ‘ohi‘a. Merrie Monarch Festival attendees are urged to not transport ‘ohi‘a in order to prevent the further spread of rapid ‘ohi‘a death. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Council committee to hear from Upcountry Maui residents on county budget Wednesday. The Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee will receive testimony from Upcountry Maui residents on the county’s fiscal year 2024 budget Wednesday, April 12, at 6 p.m. at Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center. Maui Now.

Draft EA filed for Hālau of ‘Ōiwi Art, construction expected to start in 2024. The Hālau is designed to be a Hawaiian cultural and community center to help advance hula and native and local arts.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Elon Musk Starship may land near Kaua‘i this month. The most powerful rocket ever built could splash down off the coast of Kaua‘i within the next two weeks, according to Elon Musk’s Twitter account. Garden Island.

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.

Green nominee Anderson withdraws after negative Senate committee vote, 2 appointed to fill legislative vacancies, tax cut plan needs tweaks, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green facing more contentious nominee hearings.  As many as three more of Gov. Josh Green’s Cabinet appointees are also likely to face intense scrutiny at their confirmation hearings after Ikaika Anderson withdrew his nomination to lead the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands on Wednesday following a blistering — and sometimes personal — confirmation hearing. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio.  Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s Tax Deduction For Mortgages On Second Homes Could Disappear This Year. Critics of the longstanding tax break say the state has no reason to subsidize second homes. The Hawaii Association of Realtors strongly disagrees. Civil Beat.

Economist: Green’s Proposed Tax Plan For Struggling Families Needs Some Tweaking. State tax officials say language has already been drafted to address concerns that lawmakers will need to add to the bill. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.  Tribune-Herald.  Maui Now.  Maui News.

Proposed tax increase to fund homeless services not likely to advance in Legislature. A bill that would have raised a tax to support affordable housing and homeless services isn't likely to be heard this session.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Funding proposal for ʻOhana Zones advances at the state Legislature. An effort that would allocate $30 million in funding for a large state homelessness initiative has received lawmaker approval to move forward in the Legislature. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Would Pay To Fly Homeless People Back Home Under New Bill. Hawaii is considering offering homeless people one-way tickets to leave the state and never come back.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Health Advocate And Kauai Councilman Appointed To House. Gov. Josh Green announced Wednesday that he is appointing public health advocate Trish La Chica to fill an empty House seat representing parts of Mililani and Kauai Councilman Luke Evslin to a vacant seat that covers Eastern Kauai. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Laser over Hawaii might be environmental monitoring. Five days before a Chinese spy balloon was spotted over Alaska, a Mauna Kea telescope captured video of a row of green lasers beaming down from space like a picket fence in the cloudy sky above Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s daily average of COVID cases falls.  Hawaii’s daily average of new COVID-19 cases fell into the two-digit range for the first time in nearly a year, according to the latest statistics from the state Health Department. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Agency denies free parking at Ala Wai harbor targeted.  The state Department of Land and Natural Resources Department of Boating and Ocean Recreation on Wednesday said it had no immediate plans to eliminate free parking at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor in advance of a legislative hearing on preserving 300 free parking stalls there. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

McKinley High School student killed in hit-and-run. A McKinley High School student was killed in a hit-and-run collision while she and another student were crossing Kapiolani Boulevard near the school Wednesday morning. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Red Hill families forced to stay in hotels amid tainted water crisis hit with huge tax bills. Some Red Hill families who were forced to live in hotels for months because of the Navy’s tainted tap water are now getting hit with huge tax bills. The families are finding out the reimbursements from the military are considered income. Hawaii News Now.

Chinatown leaders see continued improvements.  Two local leaders active in the Chinatown community say they see glimpses of hope where the crises of crime, homelessness and drug addiction have flourished for years. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR clears Makua Beach encampment of ‘Brother Sam’. The campsite, which had been at the beach since June, belonged to Samson Souza, who considers himself as a protector of the area. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

County, MTM Transit Partner On Island-Wide Paratransit Services. MTM Transit will operate the Hele-On paratransit services program, under a new partnership with the County of Hawaiʻi. Big Island Video News.

Scientist: Tuesday’s temblor unrelated to recent eruptions. An earthquake that rattled the Big Island on Tuesday evening had nothing to do with any current or recent volcanic eruptions, experts say. Tribune-Herald.

Army: Keamuku wildfires ‘100% contained’.  The Keamuku Maneuver Area fires are 100% contained, with between 1,500 and 1,800 total acres burned between the two fires, the Army said in a Wednesday statement. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Maui

Paltin to administration: Set up homeowner’s assistance program before federal money is lost. With more than $8 million in federal funds that need to be used by Sept. 30, 2025, Maui County Council member Tamara Paltin is urging the administration to set up a program in order to administer a homeowner’s assistance fund. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Electric sees brisk pace of solar installations, bringing Maui total to 15,390. The number of private solar systems on Hawaiian Electric’s grids rose to nearly 97,000 last year, fueled by customer incentives offered by the company, an extension of federal tax credits for solar and rising electricity rates, according to the company. Maui Now.

Kauai

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opens with ceremonial blessing. The long-awaited 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opened its doors for the first time on Wednesday, ushering in a sustainability-first luxury experience on Kaua‘i after nearly three years of renovations and a complete rebrand. Garden Island. Kauai Now.