Showing posts with label judiciary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label judiciary. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Hawaii, Kauai counties retreat on GMO bills, state backs off fly homeless to Mainland plan, Schatz 'vulnerable,' DOE mismanagement hurts neighbor island schools, Deedy takes stand, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2013 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii County GMO protest (c) 2013 All Hawaii News
The Hawaii County Council plans to start from scratch on legislation to regulate genetically modified crops. Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille withdrew Bill 79 on Tuesday following a lengthy discussion and pledged to introduce an entirely new, fine-tuned version. Tribune-Herald.

The Kauai County Council will wait for legal opinions before deciding whether to approve a measure that would require agricultural operations to disclose if they are growing genetically modified crops and their use of pesticides. Associated Press.

It’s not an honor Sen. Brian Schatz wants. The National Journal ranked the top ten incumbents in Congress who could lose their seats. And Schatz was second on the list. Civil Beat.

Outdated policies and a lack of staff have hamstrung the Department of Education's ability to efficiently manage school construction and repair projects, according to an internal audit released Tuesday. As a result, some neighbor island schools have been using general education funds to pay for urgent campus repairs, essentially taking money away from academics and other educational uses. Other inefficiencies have led to delays and cost overruns for school projects. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of media outlets around the world want to know more about a pilot program to send homeless in Hawaii back to their families on the mainland. On Tuesday, the Department of Human Services decided not to implement the program. The money — $100,000 — will go back to the general fund. Civil Beat.

A program that would help fly homeless people in Hawaii back to the mainland is being greeted with skepticism by the state’s human services officials and groups that help the homeless. Associated Press.

Left as it is, the new state law authorizing airfare for homeless people heading back to the mainland could cause more problems than it solves. Star-Advertiser.

A project of the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission, created by the legislature in 2011, seeks to rekindle momentum for Hawaiian self-governance after the Akaka Bill stalled in Congress. This latest push via the roll commission was originally seen as a one-year effort that was to have been wrapped up by now, but it has been extended through January 19, 2014. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii task force of archeologists, lawyers and others are planning to meet to figure out how to deal with thousands of homes turning 50 years old. Associated Press.

Oahu

State Department special agent Christopher Deedy portrayed Kollin Elderts on Tuesday as an aggressive and belligerent man who challenged Deedy to a fight before the agent kicked him to ward off an assault. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu attorney James H. Ashford was unanimously confirmed by the state Senate on Tuesday to a six-year term as a district judge on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

City officials hope a pilot program started last week at the Division of Motor Vehicles office in Kaneohe will eventually help ease the frustrating, excessive waits that residents encounter at motor vehicle branches across Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

The three days when the highest numbers of corrections officers at Oahu Community Correctional Center called in sick during the first six months of the year coincided with a major holiday, a major sports game and a parade for a local football star, according to an investigation by Hawaii News Now.

Three major development projects will get their first airing today before the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu's housing market reached a new height in July, setting a price record for condominiums. The record $345,500 median price for condos was reported by the Hono­lulu Board of Realtors, which also said sales volume and median prices for single-family houses rose in July. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning LLC, which has a plan to cool downtown Honolulu buildings with a revolutionary air-conditioning system, has received $1 million investment from the Ulupono Initiative, a Honolulu-based impact investment firm founded by eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, the two organizations said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Ala Moana Center’s owner will sign a second major anchor for the redeveloped Ewa end of the mall soon and add 1,000 new parking stalls as part of the project to be completed in 2015. Star-Advertiser.

Sister cities forever linked by warfare came together Tuesday as a sign of peace. Honolulu and Hiroshima are essentially the bookends of World War II. And just as Dec. 7 is Hawaii's day of infamy, Aug. 6 marks Hiroshima's. KITV4.

Hawaii

The county administration may have to dip into other departments’ funding to find almost $4 million for police raises that weren’t in the budget. West Hawaii Today.

An Oahu representative offered Kona residents a glimpse at a possible major energy overhaul in the next few years. State legislators, with the Public Utilities Commission’s approval, are looking to push energy providers away from energy creation and toward energy distribution, said Rep. Charles Lee, who represents Windward Oahu, during a meeting with state House leaders Tuesday at Kealakehe High School. West Hawaii Today.

A 25-year-old Mountain View man is suing the county and three police officers for a beating he alleges he received in the Hilo police cellblock after being arrested for drunken driving. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

During a recent visit to Maui, Governor Neil Abercrombie stopped at Camp Maluhia, located along the Kahekili Highway, below the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail. Maui Now.

Kauai

A recent change in the county’s real property tax system has upset some residents when they realized their annual tax bill more than doubled. Meanwhile, the Kauai County Council is working on a bill that could potentially alleviate some of the issues. Garden Island.

The Kahuaina Plantation, a 357-acre beachfront estate on Kauai’s North Shore, is back on the market with a slightly higher asking price of $70 million, according to owner Falko Partners. Pacific Business News.

Marine biologist Katherine Muzik has a dream of the Kapaa Swimming Pool becoming a coral garden. Garden Island.

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Drones coming to Hawaii, Kauai postpones GMO vote, man fights to take driver's test in Hawaiian, group sues for prison program, state procurement chief says he's being forced out, 34 groups get Obamacare grants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii military drones
RQ-7B Shadow drone, courtesy photo AAI Corp.
Surveillance drone use and development is on the rise in the military and civilian sectors, and the Marine Corps in Hawaii said it is expected to get a dozen RQ-7B Shadows followed by 45 RQ-21A Integrators with the relocation of Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3 from California to Kaneohe Bay. Star-Advertiser.

The Marine Corps in Hawaii is conducting an environmental assessment in anticipation of receiving additional surveillance drones. Associated Press.

Eight months after the passing of Inouye, arguably the most important figure in Hawaii politics since statehood, Hawaii's four congressional delegates are busy carving out strong identities of their own. Civil Beat.

Michael Golojuch, Jr., the gay activist who filed complaints against 11 state House and Senate Democrats who sponsored or co-sponsored a constitutional amendment on traditional marriage, said Monday that he has dropped the complaints against all but two of the lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

The administrator of the State Procurement Office says the policy board that oversees the office is manipulating the hiring process for a new administrator. Aaron Fujioka, who has applied for reappointment to his position, has raised questions about the board's procedures and actions and is seeking a legal opinion. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s health insurance marketplace has awarded grants to 34 community organizations to help uninsured people learn about insurance options under President Barack Obama’s signature health care law. Associated Press.

A Hawaii man has waged a court battle centered on his right to speak and write Hawaiian, saying his inability to take a driver’s license exam in the language represents discrimination that violates the state constitution. Associated Press.

The state agency responsible for ensuring that Sandwich Isles Communications used tens of millions of dollars of ratepayer money appropriately signed off year after year on its operations even though the Federal Communications Commission was picking apart the company's financial management and raising serious questions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii will be receiving a federal $1.8 million early childhood education grant. Associated Press.

Hurricane hunters are scrambling to track threats with sequestration cuts at the worst possible time, the height of hurricane season. Hawaii News Now.

On Bishop Street there's only one Robbie, and he's leaving his job as executive vice president of Hawaiian Electric Co. on Aug. 31. This is huge. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for August 6. Associated Press.

Oahu
The Honolulu City Council would get the last word on the Honolulu Board of Water Supply's budget under a plan voters could be asked to consider in the 2014 election. The appointed, seven-member water board would be stripped of other powers as well under a charter amendment proposal, Resolution 13-177. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu attorney James H. Ashford is poised to succeed Dean Ochai to a six-year term as a district judge on Oahu, after a Senate panel recommended his nomination be approved by the full Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Farrington High School teachers and students kicked off the school year on Monday in a newly renovated wing designed by Bowers + Kubota and funded by $2.3 million from the state of Hawaii’s capital improvement fund. Pacific Business News.

Farrington high big school gets 'smaller' design. A redesigned wing reflects students' needs for more focused vocational education programs. Star-Advertiser.

As public school students headed back to classes, the state began restoring bus service for hundreds of children on Oahu. The Hawaii State Department of Education is also rolling out other changes to overhaul its troubled transportation system. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Telcom through the past year more than doubled the number of subscribers to its television service on Oahu to 13,600 households and has expanded the reach of its fiber-optic lines to about one-third of the island’s homes. Star-Advertiser.

The Royal Hawaiian Market Place, a two-story, 5,723-square-foot retail center being redeveloped in Waikiki, has been sold to City Hill Co. Hawaii Ltd., an entity with ties to Guam, for $7 million, according to records from the Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

State Department Special Agent Christopher Deedy might testify today in his trial on a charge of murdering Kollin Elderts at a McDonald's Waikiki restaurant early on Nov. 5, 2011. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
Ohana Ho‘opakele, a group seeking to promote rehabilitation programs based on Hawaiian cultural practices, is challenging the state’s environmental assessment for the re-opening of the Kulani Correctional Facility. Tribune-Herald.

A Hawaii-based researcher with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration took an item collected by many travelers as a souvenir and turned it into a data source to provide insights on Hawaii’s fish populations. West Hawaii Today.

The majority of public school students across the Big Island hoisted their bookbags, steeled their nerves, and dove back into a new academic year on Monday morning, leaving their frazzled parents to heave sighs of relief. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Nearly $60 million for improvements at Kahului Airport, ranging from repairing the apron fronting the main terminal to replacement of aging passenger loading bridges, was released by Gov. Neil Abercrombie late last month. Maui News.

The Maui Department of Water Supply plans to convert the Wailuku Well from an exploratory well to an actual water source. Maui Now.

The 30 public schools in Maui County had their first day of school Monday. Maui News.

Kauai

After a full day of work Monday, the Kauai County Council unanimously deferred to September a controversial proposal to demand disclosure of pesticide use and genetically modified crops, and to create buffer zones for large agricultural operations. Garden Island.

United States Postal Service officials are considering several options that would restore some services to Hanamaulu residents but say it is unlikely the town’s freestanding post office destroyed in a fire last year will be rebuilt. Garden Island.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has awarded a $7,000 grant to the Breadfruit Institute of the National Tropical Botanical Garden to help support “Breadfruit Festival Takes Root.”Garden Island.


Thursday, April 25, 2013

Temporary Hawaii hotel tax becomes permanent, minimum wage coming along, prison oversight lacking, Honolulu traffic second-worst, Maui judge charged with evidence tampering, Honolulu councilman wants congressional seat, sovereignty activists challenge DLNR, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2013 All Hawaii News
Royal Hawaiian hotel (c) 2013 All Hawaii News
Lawmakers agreed Wednesday to make permanent a temporary increase in the hotel room tax rate that was set to expire in 2015. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are negotiating a minimum wage increase aimed at helping residents grapple with the high cost of living in the islands. Associated Press.

State lawmakers have agreed on a bill that would enable the state to conduct historic preservation reviews of construction projects in phases, rather than all at once, but the final vote on the legislation could be difficult. Star-Advertiser.

State officials still don’t do a good job providing oversight of for-profit, mainland prisons that hold about one-third of Hawaii’s inmate population, according to a recent report from the Auditor’s Office. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s plan for state-funded preschool is still in limbo despite a rapidly approaching deadline. Associated Press.

Waikiki community leaders and activists are speaking out against a legislative effort to allow the state to make money off school lands through public-private partnerships. Star-Advertiser.

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee plans to back Hawaii U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz in his bid for re-election next year amid a primary challenge from U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, a spokesman said Tuesday. Associated Press.

A Hawaii congressional seat has opened for the third time in just three years, and any ambitious politician has to be thinking about running for it. Civil Beat.

Pledging to run a campaign that will touch all corners of urban Honolulu, City Councilman Stanley Chang on Wednesday became the first to declare his candidacy for the congressional seat expected to be vacated by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa. Star-Advertiser.

It's not even official – but that hasn't stopped at least one candidate from announcing a bid for U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusa's Congressional Seat if she decides to challenge appointed Senator Brian Schatz. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Lawmakers’ $3 Billion List of Projects Available Online. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers vote to ban the parking boot. Hawaii News Now.

Common Cause Hawaii, the League of Women Voters, Hawaii's Thousand Friends and Americans for Democratic Action have dubbed these bills "Frankenstein" constructions and scores of supporters submitted a petition to the state House and Senate demanding that the Legislature reject seven gut-and-replace bills and 11 Frankenstein bills, and to ban any future use of either legislative practice. Civil Beat.

Honolulu-based ocean shipper Matson Inc. announced Wednesday it is reducing its fuel surcharge for its Hawaii service by 3.5 percentage points because of a change in bunker fuel prices.Pacific Business News.

Oahu
The good news: Honolulu no longer ranks as America's worst city for traffic congestion. The bad news: It's now the second-worst. Star-Advertiser.

The city stepped up pressure on members of (de)Occupy Honolulu on Wednesday, removing about six tents and other property from in front of the Blaisdell Center Concert Hall with just 15 minutes' warning. Star-Advertiser.

A plan to replace the city's existing fuel tax with a highway user fee got an initial approval from the City Council Budget Committee on Wednesday but could be facing a bumpy road ahead. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council’s Budget Committee advanced a bill today to establish a fee for the use of County roads and highways. Hawaii Public Radio.

Chinatown leaders say the shortage of public bathrooms is a problem, and maybe even a deterrent for visitors. KITV4.

In 2003, Campbell High School — which sits in the heart of Ewa Beach — was the state’s 11th largest public school, enrolling roughly 1,850 students. In less than 10 years, however, enrollment has skyrocketed by more than 50 percent, accounting for some of the most pronounced student population growth in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

A Dean & DeLuca luxury food market where items include $1,000 tins of caviar and $35 cuts of filet mignon is to open its first store in Hawaii as part of the planned Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach condominium-hotel where penthouses are priced at about $15 million. Star-Advertiser.

Volunteers and workers gathered in Waianae Wednesday to plant up to 20 very rare native Hawaiian nanu (Gardenia brighamii) plants that they cultivated from the last remaining nanu growing wild on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Judiciary is getting 90 percent less funding for the Kona Judiciary Complex than it asked for this Legislative session. West Hawaii Today.

One of the items that did not get funded – despite an intensive lobbying effort on its behalf – was a building for the University of Hawaii at Hilo pharmacy school, which currently operates out of temporary facilities. Big Island Now.

The presence of endangered Hawaiian stilts and coots is delaying a $12 million upgrade to the Kealakehe Wastewater Treatment Plant. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Island received a failing grade for particulate pollution in the air, according to an American Lung Association report card released Wednesday. Associated Press.

Sovereignty activists plan to return Saturday to the site of their “Kanaka Garden” in front of the King Kamehameha the Great statue in Hilo to continue their protest of the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom and what they view as an illegal occupation by the United States. Tribune-Herald.

Paauilo Elementary and Intermediate School Principal Brian Paul Simon has been placed on leave mere weeks before the end of the school year. The change in leadership at the school came six days after Simon was ordered to serve out a sentence on a DUI charge dating back to 2009. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A Maui District Family Court judge has reportedly stepped down after being charged Tuesday with tampering with a government record. Star-Advertiser.

Second Circuit Family Court Judge Mimi DesJardins resigned Tuesday, the same day a complaint was filed in Wailuku District Court charging her with tampering with a government record, according to the state Judiciary. Maui News.

They take an oath of office, swearing to uphold the law. But one Maui judge is accused of breaking the law. KHON2.

Hawaii legislators charged with negotiating the state budget have agreed to a $23.8 billion biennium budget proposal - including $130 million for the Kihei high school. Maui News.

Full funding for a new Kīhei High School, in the amount of $130 million, is included in a draft version of the legislative budget that is now headed to the full House and Senate for final votes. Maui Now.

Kauai
The Kaua‘i Humane Society is asking for nearly $1 million in its new budget proposal. Garden Island.

Green mokihana berries intertwined with maile vines are the main components of Kaua‘i’s trademark lei. While neither of these endemic plants are endangered, thoughtless harvesting at accessible locations could affect available supplies for future generations, according to cultural practitioners. Garden Island.

The bench warrant for an off-island celebrity witness who missed a court hearing last week was lifted Wednesday in 5th Circuit Court. Randolph Trey Parker, co-creator of the animated television series “South Park,” missed an April 17 appearance as a prosecution witness in a 2009 case involving the burglary of his residence along with terroristic threats using firearms and weapons. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i’s people gave 1,100 pounds of food Saturday during the Hawai‘i Foodbank, Kaua‘i Branch 24th annual food drive. Garden Island.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Judiciary asks for more money, Kulani prison to reopen, Hawaii needs doctors, lawmakers debate Shield Law, preschool vouchers to go to ballot, Kauai coral disease spreading, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2013 All Hawaii News
Hawaii Supreme Court building (c) 2013 All Hawaii News
Inadequate courthouse security, an increased backlog of cases and long waits for a wide range of services are just some of the problems the public can continue to expect if the Legislature fails to fully fund the state Judiciary’s budget request. Civil Beat.

More Hawaii doctors have left their practices over the past year and likely will continue to do so just as the first major piece of federal health reforms rolls out. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s congressional delegation this week pushed for more support of a measure that would provide funds to train health care providers in rural areas. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz rakes in the cash from Hawaii business and political leaders. Civil Beat.

State House and Senate negotiators Thursday reached agreement on a proposed constitutional amendment that would ask voters next year whether public money should be spent on private preschool. Star-Advertiser.

House lawmakers aren't going along with the Senate’s version of a bill that protects journalists from revealing their confidential sources under certain circumstances. Civil Beat.

With the newly ratified teachers contract approved by Gov. Neil Abercrombie and expected to be funded by lawmakers, work now begins on creating a new evaluation system that negotiators have agreed will be used to reward and dismiss teachers. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Senate on Thursday confirmed Derrick Kahala Watson to a seat on the the U.S. District Court in Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for April 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

Kahala community leaders are rejoicing after the Honolulu City Council's approval of a bill allowing the city to impose stiffer fines on property owners who blight their neighborhoods by leaving overgrown foliage and trash in their yards. Star-Advertiser.

City officials say they're scrambling to find money to reverse more of the bus cuts that have hit riders the hardest. Star-Advertiser.

A convicted rapist will get a $35,000 check from the city of Honolulu, although he’ll likely be behind bars when it arrives. On Wednesday, the Honolulu City Council approved a legal settlement with Dewitt Lamar Long for injuries he sustained in 2010 when he was beaten by four cops during a traffic stop. Civil Beat.

City Council Chairman Ernie Martin said he was insulted by the behavior of some members of Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Cabinet at this week's Council meeting and made it clear that he expects them to act with decorum and respect at the meetings. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu-based Watermark Publishing officially launched a new self-publishing service on Thursday that will help Hawaii residents share their stories. Pacific Business News.

Rep. Gene Ward, R-Hawaii Kai, Sen. Laura Thielen, D-Kailua-Hawaii Kai, and Sam Slom, R-Hawaii Kai-Diamond Head, sent a letter on April 16 to the Honolulu City Council asking its 9 members to oppose development of the “Great Lawn”, a parcel 14-acre parcel in Hawaii Kai now zoned as preservation land. Hawaii Reporter.

It’s been a favorite hangout spot at Ala Moana Center for nearly 30 years. But on Thursday, some long-time customers got the sad news. Zippy’s is closing at the end of the month. KHON2.

Hawaii

Lawmakers have agreed upon funding for the Kulani Correctional Facility, paving the way for the mothballed prison outside Hilo to reopen next year. Tribune-Herald.

Eighteen months after two Environmental Management employees were arrested on charges of stealing diesel fuel from the Waimea baseyard pumps, the county administration has instituted procedures to keep it from happening again, but the Prosecutor’s Office has yet to formally charge the suspects. West Hawaii Today.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is going all in on geothermal. OHA’s Board of Trustees voted Thursday to invest $1.25 million into the Huena Power Consortium, with an upfront contribution of $600,000. Tribune-Herald.

A memorial fund has been established in honor of West Hawaii businessman Guy Toyama who helped champion sustainability, renewable energy and entrepreneurship efforts. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui's hotel occupancy rate slipped 1.1 percentage points in February to 82.6 percent while hotels made more money for their rooms, according to the monthly update from Hospitality Advisors LLC. Maui News.

Maui teachers were pleased to finally have a tentative labor contract in hand, and most said Wednesday afternoon that they voted in favor of the proposal even though they still had concerns about teacher evaluations and medical coverage. Maui News.

Kauai

The outbreak of deadly coral disease along Kaua‘i’s North Shore may be targeting more than one species of Montipora coral. Garden Island.

Retired auto dealer James Pflueger faces a long-delayed trial in September after he declined to accept a plea agreement that would have dismissed his manslaughter charges related to seven deaths when the Ka Loko dam breached seven years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Hawaii Senate sets special session to confirm judicial nominees, Abercrombie signs charter schools bills, Hawaii County Council bans aerial hunting, transit stations downsized in Honolulu plan, Lanai sale gaining momentum, islands battle wildfires, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2012 All Hawaii News
Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
The state Senate will meet in a special session June 28-29 to take confirmation votes on judge appointees Richard Pollack to the Hawaii Supreme Court and Peter Cahill to the Circuit Court bench on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday signed into law Senate Bill 2115, which replaces the chapter governing charter schools based on task force recommendations. Civil Beat.

Tuesday Governor Neil Abercrombie enacted Senate Bill (SB) 2115 and SB 2116, Relating to Charter Schools, into law. KHON2.

With just six weeks until kids head back to class, Hawaii school board members still can't decide how to plug a $17 million hole in the school bus budget. Civil Beat.

The wheels of the bus go round and round, except when there's no money to fund them. Hawaii News Now.

A Civil Beat review of the financial disclosures — filed in mid-May and posted online by the Center for Responsive Politics last week — shows that Sen. Daniel K. Inouye could be the wealthiest in the delegation. But it could also be Rep. Mazie Hirono or Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, depending on how things shake out. All three have holdings valued between $1 million and $3 million. Civil Beat.

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle is making her ability as a Republican who can work with Democrats a centerpiece of her campaign for U.S. Senate. Associated Press.

In a Hawaii Public Radio debate with Mazie Hirono last Wednesday, U.S. senate candidate Ed Case said that women’s organizations gave him 100 percent approval ratings when he represented Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District from 2002 to 2007. Civil Beat.

Small unmanned planes are used as military spies elsewhere but NOAA has bought half a dozen for use over the remote Northwestern Hawai`i Islands. They’ll help researchers track endangered wildlife and marine debris. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for June 20. Associated Press.

Oahu
As the Honolulu Authority of Rapid Transportation continues to tweak its financial plan, a decision has been made to shorten the length of all 21 rail stations from East Kapolei to the Ala Moana Shopping Center. KITV4.

Honolulu City Council considers auctioning off Haleiwa land. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano reacted quickly today to a new online political attack questioning his record as governor. Hawaii Reporter.

Conflicting information has come out of the Honolulu Department of Environmental Services regarding how much the city is limiting the number of new sewer connections that can be added to the the city’s system from Halawa to Pearl City. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle joined an official from Google to announce Tuesday the new Street View imagery of Hawaii's parks, beaches and attractions. KITV4.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council has a message for the state Department of Land and Natural Resources: Stop shooting our animals from helicopters. Tribune-Herald.

Energy and the economy — and their relationship to each other — were the biggest topics at Tuesday’s League of Women Voters of Hawaii County candidates’ forum at Hualalai Academy. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council passed two geothermal bills Tuesday evening but floundered on a third. Tribune-Herald.

Ka‘u Hospital reopened its emergency room late Tuesday while firefighters continued to battle two brush fires that have scorched about 4,400 acres and obstructed traffic in the Pahala area. West Hawaii Today.

Firefighters spent a second day on Tuesday battling a wildfire that has all but paralyzed Pahala, as well as a smaller brushfire a few miles to the north. Tribune-Herald.

East Hawaii parents dodged a bullet Tuesday when members of the state Board of Education voted to fund all school bus routes on the east side of the island. However, nearly 200 West Hawaii students will need to find alternative transportation in the fall. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
The island of Lanai could be under new ownership by the end of the week, according to Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

The news of the sale of the island of Lanai being imminent has spread throughout the Mainland and even internationally as far as Germany. Pacific Business News.

A wind-fanned fire that damaged three homes in Kula was 90 percent contained this morning, a fire official said. Maui News.

At least three homes were damaged and 6 acres of "heavy timber" were scorched Monday afternoon in a fire fanned by periodic "crazy winds" in Kula. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Fire Department has acquired a driver simulator and showed it off recently in a demonstration held at the Lihu‘e Fire Station. Garden Island.

Molokai

About 50 guests at Hotel Molokai — the island's only hotel — were allowed to return to their rooms Tuesday afternoon after fire heavily damaged the bottom floor of one of its buildings — but the facility is still without power and water, a Maui fire official reported. Star-Advertiser.

Monday, May 14, 2012

Hawaii's Grand Old Party convenes, bonus in store for principals, tax revenues up, sewer work to halt Oahu projects, Hawaii Island tax base lopsided, Kauai poi mill may close, Ka'u celebrates coffee, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright All Hawaii News all rights reserved
File photo 2008 GOP national convention (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
Former Gov. Linda Lingle is calling on Hawaii Republicans to join together to make gains in the Democrat-dominated state. Associated Press.

Republicans from around Hawaii gathered this weekend on Oahu. KITV4.

In just 177 days, the Hawaii Republican Party will know whether it will finally make real inroads in a state dominated by Democrats, or remain mired in the minority. Civil Beat.

Speaking of the need for bipartisanship on Capitol Hill and the need for Republican representation for Hawaii if both houses of Congress go to the GOP this fall, former Gov. Linda Lingle urged party faithful to support her campaign for the U.S. Senate and help overcome the Democratic Party's stronghold in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

With Hawaii's primary election just three months away, candidates and their parties are gearing up for a big showdown. KHON2.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court could decide to throw out the political district boundary maps created by the state Reapportionment Commission. Chief Election Officer Scott Nago said the state is too far along in the planning process to start over and that because the state Constitution sets the election timeline, any order to redraw the maps would not leave adequate preparation time. Star-Advertiser.

The Legislature's recent approval of the undersea cable bill earlier this month is generating added interest in projects seeking to bring energy from neighbor islands to Oahu. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Navy says its use of sonar and explosives could potentially hurt more dolphins and whales in Hawaii and California waters than previously thought. Associated Press.

Principals who attain high ratings under a performance-evaluation pilot program in 82 schools this fall will be eligible for a one-time $10,000 bonus in what officials are calling the first experiment of a merit pay system for public school educators in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

The number of foreclosure cases going through the courts could slow further or stop altogether because of another change the Legislature passed last month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials say the state’s tax revenues are up nearly 13 percent for the first 10 months of the fiscal year through April. Associated Press.

The Judicial Selection Commission on Friday announced its nominees for Hawaii Supreme Court associate justice and for a judge in Maui County’s 2nd Circuit Court. Pacific Business News.

Jodie Maesaka-Hirata will become Deputy Director of Corrections while Ted Sakai has been appointed as the new public safety director. Associated Press.

Jobie Masagatani has been named director of the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii's John A. Burns School of Medicine welcomed 64 new doctors Sunday. But as the graduates move on, there are concerns about how many of them will return to practice in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists in Hawaii have already counted eight monk seal hooking incidents in the islands this year, including one that killed a 10-month-old male seal in March. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Construction of an assisted-living facility is on hold and other major proj­ects from Halawa to Pearl City could be in limbo while the city works to improve sewer lines at two Central Oahu sites. Star-Advertiser.

Mayoral candidates Kirk Caldwell, Peter Carlisle and Ben Cayetano shied away from making any promises about property taxes during the debate last week. Civil Beat.

The Departments of Health and Agriculture launched an investigation into whether pesticides are being used incorrectly at several Thai and Sweet Basil farms in Kunia and Ewa on Oahu. Hawaii Reporter.

The city is soliciting bids for a transitional housing project in urban Honolulu. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Property owners in just two West Hawaii County Council districts — North Kona’s District 8 and Kohala’s District 9 — pay more than half the property taxes that will be collected from the entire county this coming fiscal year. West Hawaii Today.

The Mo‘oheau Bus Terminal will get a makeover later this year as part of an effort by Hawaii County to make its facilities more accessible to the disabled. Tribune-Herald.

Kau coffee, which is mostly grown and produced in Pahala, a former Hawaii island plantation town of 1,356 residents, is getting a big name. Star-Advertiser.

The Ka‘u coffee industry, which sprouted from fields left untended when the area’s sugar plantations faltered nearly two decades ago, is providing opportunities for residents in the south Hawaii district. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold a public informational meeting Wednesday in Kaunakakai on a $5 million Kaunakakai Harbor improvement project set to begin late this month. Maui News.

Through work to restore ancient taro patches, troubled youths dig up valuable life lessons. Maui News.

Development planned for both sides of the southern end of Mokulele Highway will be discussed by a three-member panel Tuesday evening during a meeting sponsored by the Kihei Community Association. Maui News.

Federal and state disaster recovery officials have scheduled an applicant briefing for Monday on Maui County concerning the Federal Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs. Maui Now.

Kauai
Only poi mill in Waimea, Kauai suspending operations. KHON2.

Employees, supporters try to stave off Kauai poi mill closure. Hawaii News Now.

Morgan’s Ponds, beloved by visitors and locals alike, is still struggling with the aftermath of nature’s inevitable course and man’s recourses, according to some residents. Garden Island.

Time-share owners have filed a federal class-action lawsuit over an assessment fee they claim was forced by a management-based board without approval of the owners. Garden Island.

Native Hawaiians on Kaua‘i will have an opportunity to provide feedback to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs at a community forum as well as at a regular OHA Board of Trustees meeting, both scheduled for Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Molokai Public Library will celebrate its 75th Anniversary with special music, hula, and dance on the front lawn, and exhibits in the library on Wednesday, May 23. Molokai Dispatch.


Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Eating your dog or cat could become a crime. Counties want reprieve from Sunshine Law, defense cuts will spare Hawaii, pro-rail Inouye won't back Cayetano, fired charter school head spent state money, homeless shelter, public housing scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea mountain view (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Storms this weekend blanketed Mauna Kea summit with 3 to 4 inches of new snow, and more winter weather is expected. West Hawaii Today.

As military communities around the nation fret about defense cuts, U.S. Sen. Daniel Ino­uye said Hawaii expects to receive about 1,000 more Marines from Oki­nawa, have the same number or more ships based at Pearl Harbor and see a slight increase in shipyard work here. Star-Advertiser.

A third Marine accused of hazing a lance corporal who committed suicide in Afghanistan goes to trial this week. Associated Press.

A bill to give counties a break from the Sunshine Law, HB 2742, up for a hearing Tuesday afternoon, has already caught the attention of good-government watchdogs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii legislators will again take up the question of whether the state's four county councils should be exempt from the Sunshine Law. West Hawaii Today.

Legislators are considering two bills that would give the Hawaii Department of Education the authority to develop and implement a performance management system for teachers and principals. Civil Beat.

Legislators are supporting bills that would broaden the definition of school instruction beyond "seat time" but would also standardize bell schedules to ensure that the length of the school day is about the same for students statewide. Star-Advertiser.

State officials are trying to figure out how to best teach Hawaii's preschool aged residents.KHON2.

The state representative who made the motion to kill a bill that would make shoppers pay for single-use bags said it was a mistake. Civil Beat.

In the Judiciary Committee, members will hear HB 1170 seeking to criminalize the consumption of or trafficking in dog, cat or equine animal meat for the purpose of human consumption. Maui Now.

State lawmakers are  working on two bills that would open the doors for counties to legalize transient vacation rentals on agricultural land. Garden Island.

Hawaii will be getting a new U.S. district judge as a result of David Ezra's move to senior judge status in late June. Star-Advertiser.

In light of the continued strain on the state's budget, just one top executive at Hawaii Health Systems Corp. got a raise this year, according to a Civil Beat review. Civil Beat.
Former U.S. Red Charles Djou



Army reservist and congressional candidate Charles Djou is heading back from Afghanistan. KHON2.

State roundup for Feb. 21. Associated Press.

Honolulu

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye said he will support either Mayor Peter Carlisle or former city Managing Director Kirk Caldwell in the race for Hono­lulu mayor, based on their support for the city's $5.27 billion rail transit project. Star-Advertiser.

The state spends about $1 million a year to operate a Kakaako homeless shelter plagued with a leaky roof, bedbugs, rats, roaches and intermittent hot water. Civil Beat.

Two fatal stabbings in four months have happened at one of Hawai`i’s public housing complexes. Each incident involved non-residents. Residents say the current security system is severely lacking and more needs to be done to protect them from violent visitors and brawls that end in death. Hawaii Public Radio.

The fired former head of Hawaii Technology Academy and his vice principal spent about $100,000 in state school funds on travel in one year, and an auditor found that "abuse, waste or fraud" likely occurred at the state's largest charter school. Hawaii News Now.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association will be opening a new Marine Science & Storage Facility Tuesday, along with announcing a new partnership to open their Pacific Regional Center for tourism. KITV4.

Hawaii

Developers' fair share contributions will account for only $3 million of a county capital improvement budget likely to be more than $125 million in the fiscal year that starts July 1. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Representatives of a Kaanapali oceanside restaurant said that their establishment continues to address a bedbug problem that first surfaced last summer. Maui News.

Federal, state and county governments are teaming up to host Medicare fraud prevention town hall meetings this month and next on Lanai and Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Free bus rides begin on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Three prominent peace activists will be featured at a free public meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Kapa‘a Library to discuss the global effects of U.S. missile defense technologies on an island home to the world’s largest missile range. Garden Island.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Hawaii work incentives cut, feeding the homeless, 25th Infantry coming home, Maui water woes continue, cops thwart motorcyclists' Toys for Tots program, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii holiday food line (c) All Hawaii News
Just a few blocks from where oblivious tourists step off cruise ships to pick through souvenirs, there's an entirely different world. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii ex-welfare recipient work incentives cut. Associated Press.

Democratic Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa can't remember the last time she cried. Civil Beat.

After hovering around $4 a gallon last week, the average price of regular gasoline dropped below the $4 a gallon mark in Honolulu this weekend. But the neighbor islands are not seeing the same price drop. Associated Press.

Louie: Gov. still doesn’t have to release names of judicial nominees. Pacific Business News.

After five years under federal oversight due to prisoner abuses, the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility has become a safe place with an improved corporate culture, state officials maintain. Star-Advertiser.

While the Occupy movement has been smaller and quieter in Hawaii than elsewhere, the music of one Hawaiian musician is gaining attention as a protest song for the campaign. Hawaii Public Radio.

Waikiki Torch Runner Surprised By International Attention. KITV4.

Oahu

The Army plans to welcome home the 25th Infantry Division's headquarters unit from Iraq this week. KITV4.

Higher room rates and higher occupancy led to a 30 percent increase in revenue over the six-day period in which the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering brought together 21 world leaders along with top government and business officials in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

City Pays Landfill Operator $2.6M for Spill Cleanup. Civil Beat.

Small waves make for slow business on Oahu's North Shore. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Motorcyclists accustomed to rumbling through Hilo before distributing Christmas presents to needy children claim police have rained on their parade. Tribune-Herald.

The troubled Hoku Ke'a telescope atop Mauna Kea could be operational by next summer, its director said. Tribune-Herald.

A group that won the right to turn Laupahoehoe School into a charter school is refusing to hold elections for a board to govern the school as promised in its application and as ordered by the Charter School Review Panel. Star-Advertiser.

Kona once again has a University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Cooperative Extension Service agent to call its own. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council Member Mike Victorino said he believes that the time may be past for the county to tell developers, "show me the water." Maui News.

A Maui businessman said last week that he had abandoned plans to develop a bottled-water plant in Waihee, after some of his investors walked away from the project. Maui News.

Behind the scenes of Maui's agriculture inspection facility. KHON2.

Kauai

The tree trimmers working at Bank of Hawai‘i’s Kapa‘a Branch battled not only the brisk trades but the clock on Sunday. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Robotics Alliance is offering imu service for Thanksgiving as a fundraiser for its season which starts in January. Garden Island.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Hawaii tourism up, Honolulu foreclosures surge, judiciary seeks money, mystery surrounds top doc's resignation, food companies fight recalls, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii tourism begins 2011 with renewed momentum from last year's turnaround; however, it's still expected to fall short of the industry's 2005, 2006 and 2007 banner years. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is proposing a significant increase in the vehicle weight tax.KITV4.

Abercrombie: Projection of Deficit Was 'Considerably Less' in October 2010. Civil Beat.

A group of nine Hawaii senators held hands, bowed their heads and sought God's blessing today, signaling that they'll still pray despite a vote last week to abandon official invocations. Associated Press.

Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is asking state lawmakers to approve a judiciary budget that includes $16.2 million to end the two-days-a-month furloughs for about 1,800 court workers on July 1. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s budget crunch is slowing the wheels of justice as $19.7 million of cuts over the past two years a factor in doubling processing times for uncontested divorces and the median age of pending civil cases rising by 40 percent over a year earlier. Hawaii Reporter.

Dr. Neal Palafox on Wednesday pulled out of the running for a cabinet position that required a senate advise and consent process.KHON2.

Interim Hawaii Health Director Dr. Neal Palafox abruptly quit Wednesday, the first of new Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Cabinet appointees to leave.Associated Press.

Gov. Abercrombie is proposing a change to the state retirement law that would dramatically reduce the pensions for many government workers -- particularly police officers. KITV4.

Foreclosure activity in the Honolulu metropolitan area rose by almost 40 percent last year compared to the year before, according to a new report from RealtyTrac. Pacific Business News

After more than three decades running Hawaii’s largest sports complex, Aloha Stadium officials are running out of options to solve their most vexing problem: reversing years of decline at the facility that will take center stage this weekend (Jan. 30) for the NFL Pro Bowl. Honolulu Weekly.

The city has cleared the final major environmental hurdle for it to begin construction of Honolulu's rail project.Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Rail Transit Project received a key permit approval today from the Honolulu City Council that allows the project to begin early construction activities.Hawaii Independent.

State Department of Health officials said a Waipahu food production plant was shut down because of a failure to do the required testing of products for acidity, an indicator of whether conditions are ripe for botulism. Star-Advertiser.

A recall involving food manufacturer First Commercial Kitchen has outraged many local entrepreneurs.KHON2.

Two Big Island companies whose products are listed in a statewide recall say they don't even use the company shut down by the Health Department this week. West Hawaii Today.

A day after a recall of more than 100 locally-made products, health officials are still trying to figure out which brands should be on the list.Hawaii News Now.

A document has come to light, showing that the operator of the Waimanalo Gulch landfill and the city were fined $424,000 last year for design failures at the landfill. Hawaii News Now.

With cast-off household items piling up on curbsides, Oahu's landfill will remain closed yet another week, city officials announced yesterday.Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is urging the Legislature to adopt several changes to state criminal law. Associated Press.

A University of Hawaii researcher was elected president of a prestigious coral research group. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Challenge(s) of Geothermal. Big Island Weekly.

State agriculture officials got permission Tuesday to begin field testing a pesticide that may control the coffee berry borer. West Hawaii Today.

An agreement announced Tuesday between the Hawaii Medical Service Association and Healthways won't cost HMSA subscribers extra and may lead to rate reductions, company representatives said. West Hawaii Today.

Wailea association puts end to a court battle over parking. Maui News.

Four months after the workshop that Mayor Billy Kenoi's office said would yield a pedestrian safety plan, the plan is still a work in progress. Tribune-Herald.

The new Safeway store in Hilo is opening in two months, officials confirmed, and the company is now accepting employment applications.Tribune-Herald.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Hawaii justice delayed by budget cuts, Hannemann to take hotel post, judge rules for migrant health care, student measures Kilauea's depths, UH video goes viral, fireworks ban in the works, state GOP in turmoil, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is calling for adequate funding for the state Judiciary, which has been hit by furloughs and budget cuts that he says have reduced, delayed and eliminated important judicial services. Star-Advertiser.

A new report from the State Judiciary says court cases that once took weeks are now taking months, and some people who qualify for drug treatment have no choice but to wait behind bars -- all because of budget cuts. Hawaii News Now.

Sources tell Hawaii News Now the former Honolulu mayor will soon take the top job at the Hawaii Hotel and Lodging Association.Hawaii News Now.

Weeks after a lackluster performance in the November election, the Hawaii Republican Party is undergoing turmoil over its finances and whether it should sell its Honolulu headquarters. Associated Press.

The state's two largest freight shipping companies were grilled Monday as the state looked at ways to stop illegal aerial fireworks from entering the islands. KITV4.

In less than a month, consumer fireworks will be illegal on Oahu and law enforcement officials fear this New Year's Eve will be the worse when it comes to illegal imports. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie selected Pat McManaman to be appointed as the director of the Department of Human Services (DHS) last week.Hawaii Independent.

A college student who pinpointed the depth of Kilauea Volcano's magma chamber says the finding could lead to better predictions of eruptions. Star-Advertiser.

Grace Pacific Corp., the largest roadway paving contractor in Hawaii, has bought the owner of the 76 gas station brand in Hawaii in an all-stock transaction that will create one of the 10 largest locally owned for-profit companies in the state.Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge is ordering Hawaii's government to restore health benefits to low-income legal migrants from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau. KITV4.

A federal judge has determined that Compact of Free Association migrants in Hawaii must receive full medical benefits Dec. 15. The ruling could cost the state upwards of $15 million a year. Civil Beat.

Tripler Army Medical Center is a place of healing but at least six employees contacted a civil rights lawyer alleging hateful and racial comments. Hawaii News Now.

Abercrombie celebrates in Ka'u. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Robert Faris approved a request yesterday to convert the Honolulu Symphony's bankruptcy case from Chapter 11 reorganization to Chapter 7 liquidation, effectively silencing the 110-year-old orchestra. Star-Advertiser.

Closing Queen Liliuokalani Elementary is no way to celebrate the school's 100th anniversary next year, said parents, teachers and others who turned out for a hearing on a consolidation proposal last night.Star-Advertiser.

The turnover in resort real estate is expected to top $1 billion this year, marking a turnaround after a five-year slide. Maui News.

On Jan. 16, Castle & Cooke Homes will auction off its remaining inventory of resort real estate at Manele and Koele on Lanai. Maui News.

Dr. Monty Downs got help from the Rotary Club of Hanalei Bay and the Rotary Club of Po‘ipu Beach in installing a milestone-marking rescue tube Monday at Kealia Beach. Garden Island.

Kaunakakai wharf construction was given the green light last week, with new features such as an enhanced waiting room, increased bathroom facilities and improved traffic flow. Molokai Dispatch.

A video posted three days ago on Youtube showing the UH marching band has gone viral. KHON2.

A new oasis awaits for the thirsty, stressed and festive amid the touristy sprawl on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.