State seeks Airbnb records, nation's mayors visit Honolulu homeless, health department visiting Kauai homes, Molokai battles over water rights, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki king tides UH sea college grant program July 2017

It’s that time of year again. Another round of king tides will return to Hawaii shores this week. Scientists said the king tides will arrive on Tuesday and Wednesday — and they’re expected to peak between 3 to 5 p.m. both days. Hawaii News Now.

State again seeks to subpoena Airbnb records. The state Department of Taxation is again asking a judge for permission to force vacation rental giant Airbnb Inc. to turn over the booking records of operators in Hawaii who advertise with them. Star-Advertiser.

Bipartisan policy at 87th Conference of Mayors. Honolulu's Democratic Mayor Kirk Caldwell drew inspiration from Miami's Republican Mayor Francis Suarez's strategy for dealing with rising sea levels. KITV.

Mayors from across the nation take a peek at how the city is working to solve homelessness. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell was joined by other mayors from across the country Monday in examining a solution to homelessness. Hawaii News Now.

Experts warn of worsening fire conditions in Hawaii. Because of climate change, Hawaii’s wildfire season, previously confined to the summer months, is now year-round — which means the islands likely will see more wildfires. Tribune-Herald.

What Will It Take To Make Hawaii A Player In eSports? Cities around the world are holding eSports tournaments, hoping to attract younger visitors and become major destinations for the industry. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Deputy Investigated For Murder In Capitol Shooting. Delmar Espejo, 28, died of a gunshot wound to the back, an autopsy report said. Associated Press.

Oahu

Taxpayers Shouldn’t Expect Louis Kealoha To Pay Them Back Anytime Soon. The Honolulu Police Commission gave the former chief a retirement payment of $250,000 after he was named as the target of a federal criminal investigation. Civil Beat.

After guilty verdict, state moves to prevent Katherine Kealoha from practicing law.  Katherine Kealoha is behind bars after being found guilty in one of the state’s biggest public corruption cases. But technically, she could still practice law. Hawaii News Now.

Disciplinary counsel files to block Kealoha’s law license. KHON2.

Attorney says Katherine Kealoha needs surgery. Attorney Earle Partington visited Katherine Kealoha the day after she was placed in custody. KHON2.

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A place with 'so much local charm’ is razed to make way for a luxury tower in Waikiki. What was once a gathering place for many local families will now become a 32-story luxury tower. Those familiar with the area are used to seeing an iconic shopping center called King’s Village. Hawaii News Now.

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Pali repair work is extended 3 months. Emergency repair work on Pali Highway following February’s rockslides will continue three months longer than originally anticipated, until the end of November, state officials said. Star-Advertiser.

DOT Gives Update On Pali Highway Repairs With Completion Pushed To November. Civil Beat.

Pali Highway repairs to continue until November. Repairs to the Pali Highway will continue through November. Crews will continue repairs along the busy highway 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. KITV.

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Proposed Housing Development Gets A Rough Reception In Kaneohe. Honolulu City Council Chairman Ikaika Anderson, who represents the area, was harshly criticized for initially supporting the eight-home project. Civil Beat.

Board of Water Supply to increase the price of water based on meter size. Over the next five years customers will see gradual changes reflected on their bills. KITV.

Officials discourage floating, drinking on July 4. What has become the notorious July Fourth “Floatilla” off Waikiki has prompted early warnings from local officials hoping to discourage a large turnout and drinking in the water as a way to celebrate. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu radio acquisition creates statewide network for Pacific Media Group. Chuck Bergson, president, CEO and majority owner of Pacific Media Group, said the acquisitions cap what has been a 20-year vision for the company. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Safer days at Kua Bay: Lifeguards begin manning popular North Kona beach. Lifeguards are now patrolling the water at the popular, yet perilous Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Leilani Estates Community Association exploring ways to curb tourist access to subdivision. Almost a year after the end of liquid lava in lower Puna, Leilani Estates continues to wrestle with packs of tourists attracted to the vestiges of last year’s Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

Council resolution seeks Bank of America cooperation on DHHL loans. A decades-old dispute over $150 million in home loans for Native Hawaiians has captured the attention of two Hawaii County councilwomen, who have sponsored a nonbinding resolution supporting Gov. David Ige’s attempts to bring Bank of America back to the bargaining table. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Sugimura Proposes Investigative Review of Water Resources for Upcountry Maui. Councilmember Yuki Lei Sugimura is requesting an exploration of options relating to East Maui water resources to ensure reliable water delivery for some 37,000 Upcountry water users. Maui Now.


State seeks input on plan for disadvantaged business enterprises. Maui meeting set for July 10. Maui News.


Kauai

DOH taking survey of residents readiness. The Kauai District Health Office of the Hawaii Department of Health will be conducting a door-to-door survey of Kauai residents from July 11 to 13 to assess their readiness for emergencies such as hurricanes, floods and other disasters. Garden Island.

Prosecutors try to seize $140,000. The Kauai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is asking for court approval to seize roughly $140,000 in cash that police allegedly confiscated during a drug raid in Koloa two years ago. Garden Island.

King tides are here. King tides have returned, triggering flooding at Nawiliwili on Monday afternoon. Garden Island.

Molokai

Activists demand water diverted for Molokai Ranch be restored. Molokai Ranch has been diverting water for nearly 100 years from central Molokai to its land on the west side of the island. Hawaii News Now.

Audit blasts state energy office, Hanabusa more popular among business leaders, new U.S. attorney named, dialysis clinics vacant as inspections awaited, rats return to Lehua Island, Kealoha accused of coercing witness, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki king tides July 2017, courtesy UH Sea College Grant program

For the past two years, the University of Hawaii Sea Grant Program has been recruiting citizen scientists from across the Pacific. They were trained to document high water levels or King Tides in an effort to understand and adapt to sea level rise. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Auditor’s report blasts energy office. The Hawaii State Energy Office awarded a contract for more than $250,000 to plan a “state-of-the-art” energy innovation center last year, and then seven months later commissioned another consultant to assess whether that center is actually needed, according to an audit of the office. Star-Advertiser.

Read full audit here.

Auditors couldn't figure out what this state office does — or plans to do. Hawaii News Now.

Audit: State Energy Office ‘Is Not Doing Its Job’ A scathing report cites the office’s failure to document what it’s doing to help Hawaii’s transition to renewable energy resources. Civil Beat.

Why Colleen Hanabusa Can’t Sit Still. The Hawaii congresswoman talks about ambition, office-hopping and her quest for the Hawaii governor’s office. Civil Beat.

BOSS Asks Business Leaders: Ige or Hanabusa? Hawaii Business.

Kenji Price — a former federal prosecutor and Army Ranger who is now a director at the Honolulu law firm of Alston Hunt Floyd & Ing — has been appointed Interim U.S. Attorney for Hawaii by Attorney General Jeff Sessions, the Justice Department announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Army Ranger Named Temporary US Attorney For Hawaii. Kenji Price has been focusing on white collar criminal defense and commercial litigation at a Honolulu firm. Associated Press.

Delays in clinic inspections hurt dialysis patients. Lawmakers are trying to find solutions to a three-year delay in inspections for some dialysis clinics that largely remain closed as the number of residents with kidney failure continues to climb. Star-Advertiser.

One aspect of the homeless crisis: State realizes policing encampments is pricey. DLNR is requesting $330,000 in related funds. Gov. David Ige's administration also wants $419,302 to pay for eight new deputy sheriffs that could respond to complaints about illegal camping and trespassing on state lands. There is also a $5 million lump sum request in the state Department of Human Services' budget. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii joins 'tele-abortion' pilot amid debate about procedure's safety. Hawaii is one of only four states taking part in a "tele-abortion" pilot project, and the politically-charged issue is riling up abortion foes. Hawaii News Now.

Preschool Open Door Program Open for Enrollment. Low and moderate-income families in Hawaii can tap a state subsidized program to give their keiki a head start in early learning. Hawaii Public Radio.

No end in sight for mumps outbreak. In addition to containing clusters of mumps cases, the state is gearing up for the peak of flu season. KITV.

Mumps booster needed to avoid virus. Even if you had a mumps vaccination, you are being urged to get a booster shot. KITV.

Foreign fishermen settle human trafficking suit. Two Indonesian fishermen who say they were enslaved on an American fishing boat have settled their lawsuit against the vessel’s owner seven years after escaping and receiving special U.S. visas as victims of human trafficking. Associated Press.

Kmart to pay over $84K for overbilling Hawaii Medicaid customers. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines awarded share of $227M federal contract. Hawaiian Airlines Inc. on Friday received a share of a $227 million federal contract for international commercial scheduled air cargo transportation services. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Katherine Kealoha coerced man to lie to grand jury, charges say. The deputy city prosecutor wife of a Honolulu police chief convinced a man whose trust she allegedly stole from when he was a child to lie for her before a grand jury looking into corruption allegations against the couple, according to court documents filed today. Associated Press.

An alleged victim in the case against former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife, Katherine, is now a suspect. KHON2.

Police Commission Loosens Rules On Legal Fees For Officers. For years, city attorneys have been strict when it comes to paying an officer’s attorney fees in lawsuits and criminal complaints. Civil Beat.

Rise in attacks by state hospital patients prompts call for change. KHON2.

Medical Pot And Veterans: Groups Offer Free Evaluations. The cost of getting evaluated usually far exceeds the price of the actual registration process for cannabis users. Civil Beat.

Honolulu EMS announces the need for more money. KHON2.

Warning signs posted after big sewage spill into Kaneohe Bay. The public is being told to stay out of Kaneohe Bay after a spill sent 30,000 gallons of sewage into the water. Hawaii News Now.

Kaimana the monk seal is hooked again. Kaimana the monk seal got hooked — a second time. This time, she needed help getting it out. Star-Advertiser.

$500K-plus micro condo units to hit Kakaako market. About 200 studios range from 277 square feet to 373 square feet, with the smallest of those starting between $500,000 and $600,000. Star-Advertiser.

Howard Hughes to open sales office for new Honolulu tower. Pacific Business News.

Petitioners want to preserve monkeypod trees at Manoa Marketplace. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ige releases additional $1.3M for outreach, research in battle against rapid ohia death. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim’s lobbyist to the state Legislature appeared before a more local body Wednesday, where he defended his track record and pledged better communication with the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

The traffic signals are in place, but it may take until the end of the month before intersection improvements at Shower Drive and Highway 130 in Puna are complete. Tribune-Herald.

A former driver for The Arc of Hilo who sexually assaulted a physically and mentally disabled woman last year in a van owned by the nonprofit organization was sentenced Wednesday to 20 years in prison. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Makawao is Highest Priority Area for Cesspools, Public Meeting Announced. Maui Now.

Water Director Taylor remains at home. Water Department leadership in limbo following council vote in support of director. Maui News.

Kauai

Rats! signs of life. A rapid assessment team flew to Lehua Island Tuesday after checks of motion-detecting field cameras showed the presence of two rats. Garden Island.

Housing crisis lingers as additional rental unit bill deferred. A bill aimed at allowing homeowners to build small rental units on their land in order to help meet an affordable housing shortage was deferred to the end of February during a Kauai County committee meeting Wednesday. Garden Island.

Hawaii scientists prepare for sea level rise, Ige girds for gubernatorial battle, public transportation use drops, Maui school bus shortage reaching resolution, Kaui seeks landfill site, builder backs out of $734M Big Island affordable housing project, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

King tide floods Queen Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo, photo: K.t. Cannon

Scientists say the sea is rising faster than first thought. At a public information meeting Thursday evening, the prognosis was mostly grim from the scientists working on a report in conjunction with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources presented a draft Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Adaptation Report to a room of about two dozen people. When completed, the report will be submitted in anticipation of the 2018 Hawaii State Legislature. Big Island Video News.

Another round of king tides rolls in, setting record high sea levels. Hawaii News Now.

King tides make appearance on Oahu. KHON2.

Gov. David Ige plans to ramp up his political fundraising efforts to raise $1 million before the end of the year to prepare for what could be a bruising Democratic primary next year. Star-Advertiser.

Compared to several years ago, the number of people using public transportation is dropping. That’s according to a study that finds the pattern to be true on the mainland—and also here in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

State resumes reviews of child fatalities. For a few years, Hawaii had the dubious distinction of being the only state — or possibly one of two — that did not regularly review child deaths. Star-Advertiser.

Will More Nurses in Hawaii Schools Help Keep Kids In Class? The Legislature provided $2.8 million to expand the Hawaii Keiki program, which places nurses in schools. Civil Beat.

With a new school year kicking off, some parents say they aren’t fans of state guidelines based on federal recommendations, that let kids found to have ukus, or head lice, return to school right after treatment has started. West Hawaii Today.

A major ocean cargo carrier has announced plans to expand operations to Hawaii, in a move that could significantly increase the state’s fleet of container ships. But whether new competition will reduce shipping costs – and ultimately the cost of goods for consumers – isn’t clear. Civil Beat.

Army officials have spent days sifting through chunks of Black Hawk helicopter debris in turbulent Pacific waters off Hawaii but have yet to see any signs of life in their search for five soldiers missing since the aircraft crashed during nighttime training on Tuesday. Associated Press.

Oahu

The developer of the latest Ala Moana-Kapiolani area high-rise in need of permits from the Honolulu City Council will bring along a unique feature — its own senior affordable rental building. Star-Advertiser.

The Kahala Hotel &Resort, which last week withdrew a controversial request to use the public shoreline fronting the hotel for commercial enterprises, has now said it will not resubmit the request unless all stakeholders agree. Star-Advertiser.

An 81-year-old retired librarian, who had been trapped in her Marco Polo condo on the 32nd floor during the July 14 inferno, died 20 days later. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

An Ohio company that won a state award to develop a $734 million Hawaii island affordable-housing project has pulled out of the deal, leaving the mostly unbuilt community’s future in limbo after more than $20 million invested by the state. Star-Advertiser.

A senior housing facility and veterans center at least a decade in the making is closer to coming to fruition. Tribune-Herald.

The replacement motor for the Honokohau Deepwell does not work. Back to the drawing board as five wells remain out of service in Kona. Big Island Video News.

Event draws pot patients, professionals: Many dismayed with status of marijuana dispensaries. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Some Lahaina routes restored. Driver shortage down to 11 as Roberts, DOE engage in public battle over school bus woes. Maui News.

Welcome Hokulea. Famed voyaging canoe makes Maui first stop on ‘Mahalo’ sail around state. Maui News.

Reef at Olowalu now a ‘hope spot’. The goal is to bring awareness, support to places Mission Blue deems “critical to the health of the ocean” Maui News.

The Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation announced that both Waihe‘e Beach Park and the driving range at Waiehu Golf Course have been closed due to hazardous trees along the park driveway and driving range. Maui Now.

Emergency Rescue: Endangered Sea Turtle Nest on Maui Relocated. Maui Now.

Kauai

Has Kauai Finally Found A Site For A New Landfill? After a decade of effort, the county has located a preferred site for a new $65 million facility. But the plan will likely face NIMBY opposition. Civil Beat.

Researchers encountered something new off the coast of Kauai during an 11-day August field project — a probable hybrid between a melon-headed whale and rough-toothed dolphin. Garden Island.

Those involved in the Lehua Island rat eradication project are meeting with members of the community one-on-one instead of holding a community meeting to answer questions. Garden Island.

The water at Hanalei Bay Landing, known as Hanalei Pier, still has a high amount of bacteria and officials recommend staying out of the water in that area until at least Tuesday. Garden Island.

Activists angered by proposed Waipouli path. Garden Island.

Tourism up, 2 Hawaii beaches make top 10, schools no longer graded, OHA secrecy irks beneficiaries, farm exchange program worries lawmaker, Oahu app replaces Nixle, low-income Maui renters face eviction, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourists visit rocky black sand beach © 2017 All Hawaii News

A surge in travelers from the U.S. mainland, Canada and Japan fueled a 7.5 percent increase in visitors to Hawaii last month compared to the same month last year. Associated Press.

Visitor arrivals and spending in the islands increased for the 11th straight month in April, keeping Hawaii on track to reach its sixth consecutive year of record tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s four core visitor markets led to strong tourism gains in April, offsetting declines from all other international markets, according to preliminary statistics from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Maui, Big Island beaches make annual Dr. Beach top-10 list. Kapalua Bay Beach on Maui came in at No. 2 on the list, while Hapuna Beach State Park on Hawaii island came in at No. 8. Associated Press.

President Donald Trump’s revised executive order on immigration “speaks with vague words of national security, but in context drips with religious intolerance, animus and discrimination,” a federal appeals court said Thursday in ruling against the travel ban targeting six Muslim-majority countries. Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin is spearheading the state’s effort to block President Donald Trump’s new executive order. Associated Press.

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin said Thursday that not even President Donald Trump is above the Constitution following a Virginia federal appeals court decision against the administration's revised travel ban. Pacific Business News.

The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that President Trump's controversial travel ban should be kept on hold, maintaining a nationwide preliminary injunction that blocks key elements of the executive order from being enforced. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals today upheld a nationwide injunction against President Donald Trump’s Revised Executive Order, dated March 6, 2017, banning travel from six Muslim-majority nations. Maui Now.

Hawaii public schools starting this fall will no longer be ranked against each other on how well their students perform on standardized tests and other academic benchmarks. Star-Advertiser.

As it deals with infighting in the boardroom and a criminal investigation into its contract awards, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is facing new questions over the secrecy of some of its investments. Hawaii News Now.

A farm-exchange program which provides housing in exchange for work on organic agricultural operations is the source of growing concern from some state lawmakers. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu is bracing for some of its highest tides in more than a century in a rare event scientists describe as a test-run for a future of rising sea levels. Star-Advertiser.

City crews have brought in sandbags in anticipation of high surf conditions at Oahu beach parks, where water levels are expected to rise tonight and peak Friday — bolstered by astronomical “king tides.” Star-Advertiser.

King Tides Are Providing A Glimpse Of Hawaii’s Future. Volunteers help to document what happens when some of the year’s highest tides combine with a south swell and ongoing sea level rise. Civil Beat.

Parts of the state's most famous beach all but disappeared Thursday, as a "king tide" coupled with a south swell pushed up surf along Waikiki's shoreline to well beyond the normal high water mark. Hawaii News Now.

The Department of Transportation announced Thursday that it will add a new freeway lane on Moanalua Freeway from Red Hill to the Aiea Heights drive overpass, making more use of the current space by re-striping the area and preserving the amount of road space. KITV.

Beginning in early June, the Hawaii Department of Transportation will be working on the H-201 Moanalua Freeway westbound from the Halawa Interchange to the Aiea pedestrian overpass on the H-1 Freeway. KHON2.

A new emergency messaging app is replacing Nixle. The city announced the HNL Info app at a news conference Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

City says goodbye to NIXLE alerts and came up with their new mobile app. KITV.

A government crackdown on Oahu basil farms and their pesticide use practices has led to a settlement with a Waianae farm that has agreed to pay a $26,700 penalty. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Stadium officials said they are re-examining security plans in the wake of the Manchester concert bombing and other terrorist attacks. Star-Advertiser.

A former Honolulu nightclub is being fined for numerous violations that came to light after a violent clash between bouncers and customers last year. Hawaii News Now.

Three more cases of mumps have been confirmed on Oahu, the state Department of Health announced Thursday. Civil Beat.

The World, a luxury residential cruise ship, has docked at Aloha Tower during its year-long voyage that included stops at the four major islands. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

As the budget process winds down, Mayor Harry Kim is spending considerable time and effort meeting with various groups across the island to discuss the finer points of his office’s proposed $491.2 million budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1. West Hawaii Today.

The county has hired a consultant and selected properties for two new wastewater treatment plants as it works toward complying with a federal consent order requiring the closure of gang cesspools in Ka‘u. West Hawaii Today.

Waikapuna eyed for conservation. Tribune-Herald.

State raising awareness of hala scale. West Hawaii Today.

Part two of a series on the homeless population in North Hawaii, with possible solutions from local nonprofits, churches and community groups for how to tackle the problem. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island leads spending, arrivals gains for Hawaii tourism in April. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Hundreds Of Low-Income Maui Residents May Face Eviction. Their taxpayer-subsidized apartment building was supposed to be affordable for 50 years. But a loophole could end that arrangement far sooner. Civil Beat.

A procedural change in the way the county Department of Liquor Control processes permits to sell alcohol for one-day events is jeopardizing Maui nonprofit organizations’ fundraising efforts, according to a petition circulated via email this week by the Maui Non-Profit Directors Association. Maui News.

The transportation department has accrued some unusual help to manage weeds next to Maui roadways, goats. KHON2.

Maui County Parks are going organic. A pilot project to create pesticide-free county parks is underway on the Valley Isle. Hawaii Public Radio.

In addition to more parking, residents want food trucks, a plaza and a children’s museum in Wailuku town, according to an online survey that concluded earlier this month. Maui News.

With reports of the ocean washing over Honoapiilani Highway in Ukumehame on Wednesday and Thursday, the National Weather Service is warning of possible coastal flooding in Maui County due to record-level spring “king tides.” Maui News.

Kauai

The General Plan will keep land in Princeville zoned as resort. On Tuesday, the Planning Commission voted against the plan’s attempt to take away the resort designation, which it currently has. Garden Island.

Eleven people were arrested in the past two days for illegally camping in Kalalau Valley, according to the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources on Thursday. Garden Island.

Coco Palms takes spotlight at LBA meeting. Man tells legislators they have no authority over property. Garden Island.

State Reps. James Tokioka, Dee Morikawa and Nadine Nakamura, and Senate President Ron Kouchi offered a look at the highlights of the legislative session that wrapped up earlier this month. Garden Island.

‘King tides’ could be norm. Rising water offers chance for citizen science. Garden Island.

USS Arizona Memorial employee took gifts from tour company seeking tickets, 5-8 tropical cyclones predicted, state sues car makers on airbags, Maui rousts homeless, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Arizona Memorial, courtesy National Park Service

A National Park Service employee at the USS Arizona Memorial accepted gifts from tour operators in violation of ethics regulations, U.S. Department of Interior investigators said Wednesday. The U.S. Attorney's Office declined to prosecute. Star-Advertiser.

Investigators: USS Arizona Memorial Employee Took Improper Gifts. Tour operators gave the worker a jacket and golf course green fees, the U.S. Department of Interior found. Civil Beat.

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The Central Pacific Hurricane Center today predicted five to eight tropical cyclones for the 2017 hurricane season. Star-Advertiser.

After two busy hurricane seasons, brace yourselves for an encore: Forecasters are expecting another above-average year for tropical cyclones in the Central Pacific. Hawaii News Now.

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center released its outlook for the 2017 Central Pacific Hurricane Season, which begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30. KHON2.

Climate conditions point to a near to above-normal hurricane season in the Central Pacific basin this year, forecasters announced today. Big Island Video News.

On the 25th anniversary of the season that brought devastating Hurricane Iniki to the islands, National Weather Service forecasters are warning of another possible busy hurricane season. Star-Advertiser.

A developing El Nino could result in a slightly busier than normal hurricane season this year, forecasters said today. West Hawaii Today.

For 2017, the outlook calls for a 40% chance of an above-normal season, a 40% chance of a near-normal season, and a 20% chance of a below-normal season, with 5 to 8 tropical cyclones expected to affect the Central Pacific. Maui Now.

Another cyclone season is winding up, and forecasters are predicting more storms than last year. Garden Island.

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Scientists studying sea level rise at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa need your help. Impacts of some of our highest tides of the year are predicted to be seen this week. And the general public is being summoned to document those impacts along the thousand or more miles of coastline across the island chain. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than a dozen settled claims against the state of Hawaii will be paid under legislation signed into law Tuesday by Gov. David Ige. The claims total $17.9 million, an increase of almost $7 million from a similar claims bill last year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has filed a lawsuit against three major automobile manufacturers for selling cars with dangerous air bags. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is suing auto manufacturers Ford, Nissan and Toyota over air bags that can spew shrapnel when they deploy. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Office of Consumer Protection filed a lawsuit against automakers Toyota, Nissan and Ford for unlawful practices in connection with the marketing and sales of vehicles with Takata airbags to Hawaii consumers. Pacific Business News.

UH Regents want to ensure coaches' salaries don’t go out of bounds. Star-Advertiser.

Maui and Big Island beaches make Dr. Beach's top 10 list. Associated Press.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell released his strategy to increase affordable housing on Oahu on Wednesday, packed with new regulations and incentives for developers. Hawaii News Now.

A City Council committee deferred a bill Wednesday that would place tighter restrictions on private sponsorships of parks and other city facilities after the Outdoor Circle raised concerns that the measure does not go far enough to prevent sign clutter and preserve Oahu’s natural beauty. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Sierra Club is pressuring state officials to require massive underground fuel storage tanks operated by the Navy be upgraded faster to protect a critical source of drinking water for Oahu residents. Star-Advertiser.

The Kailua Neighborhood Board passed a motion recently asking the city to revise its feral chicken removal program to focus on trapping roosters. Civil Beat.

The Board of Water Supply wanted feedback on the future of the Haiku Stairs -- and it got it. Nearly 700 suggestions poured in, about two-thirds of them just before Tuesday's close of the public comment period. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture on Wednesday declared little red fire ants eradicated from a Mililani Mauka neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Green will become the first medical marijuana dispensary in Hawaii to have a “soft opening” in June, but customers won’t be able to buy products that elicit a high. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii technology startup will receive a federal grant of more than $1 million to research and develop a low-cost data acquisition system. Pacific Business News.

HDOT warns Honolulu airport travelers of limited parking during Memorial Day weekend. KHON2.

A king tide appeared to reign Wednesday along sections of Oahu’s south shore. Star-Advertiser.

Lifeguards and Hotels along Oahu's tourism hot spot are preparing for impacts from an incoming 'king tide' and south swell. Hawaii News Now.

One of the casualties of the King Tides was Hilton’s Friday night fireworks show. KITV.

A street in Mapunapuna is already flooded as businesses prepare for effects from a king tide. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Power’s future taking shape: BioEnergy Hawaii’s waste-to-energy plans clearer. West Hawaii Today.

Hu Honua Bioenergy reached a settlement in its federal antitrust lawsuit against Hawaiian Electric Light Co. and its parent companies, Hawaiian Electric Co. and Hawaiian Electric Industries, over a terminated power purchase agreement. Tribune-Herald.

An election challenge pending since 2014 will have to wait a bit longer before it’s resolved, now that a three-member panel charged with hearing it has eroded to a single member. West Hawaii Today.

The National Science Foundation is sponsoring an ecological observatory that will connect research sites throughout the United States for the next three decades, with one proposed for the Pu‘u Maka‘ala Natural Area Reserve. Tribune-Herald.

Beach-goers and oceanfront residents should keep an eye out over the holiday weekend for tides that could rise more than foot higher than normal. Hawaii County Civil Defense spokeswoman Kanani Aton said Wednesday no county park or beach closures are planned, though that could change if warranted. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Police and park rangers cleared out the homeless encampment Tuesday at Baldwin Beach Park that they said had become one of the largest on island. Maui News.

Maui Grown Therapies is aiming to open as early as July, selling lotions, tinctures, oils, capsules and concentrates at its first dispensary in the Maui Lani Village Center, a spokeswoman said Wednesday. Maui News.

Alexander & Baldwin, the parent company of Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. that shut down in December, continues to negotiate with prospective buyers of the Puunene Mill. Maui News.

Two school bus companies — one new to the island — will be transporting public school students in Maui’s largest complexes beginning next school year. Maui News.

The Maui News reporters and photographers captured five awards — three of them first-place honors — in the 32nd Hawaii Publishers Association Pa’i Awards that recognizes works of Hawaii’s newspapers and publications. Maui News.

Kauai

The United States Postal Service hasn’t yet scheduled another meeting to talk with the public about closing and relocating the Rice Street post office. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. recently attended the first Japan-Hawaii Economic Summit on the Big Island along with other Hawaii and Japanese leaders. Garden Island.

The Kapahi Bridge is scheduled to reopen this afternoon. Garden Island.

Prepare for ‘King Tides’. Predicted high tides for Kauai. Garden Island.

Hawaii Democrats pan Trump budget, UH seeks to commercialize research, Board of Education OKs rail route impact fees, Caldwell to unveil affordable housing plan today, Kaui councilman fails to disclose marijuana business, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii road construction © 2017 All Hawaii News

For a second year in a row, lawmakers have blocked the DOT's request to increase taxes for Hawaii drivers, even though the tax hikes were backed by Gov. David Ige. The proposal would have increased the state fuel tax from 16 cents to 26 cents per gallon, bumped up annual registration fees from $45 to $50 and raised the motor vehicle weight tax by a quarter of a cent. Hawaii News Now.

In a move designed to strengthen the University of Hawaii’s position as a hub for economic development, the state is on the verge of adopting a program designed to help commercialize intellectual property created at UH. Civil Beat.

State confirms new timeline for medical marijuana as dispensaries harvest first crops. KHON2.

Members of Hawaii’s congressional delegation slammed President Donald Trump’s proposed budget Tuesday, saying it cuts critical programs for the poor and working class, such as Medicaid and food subsidies, to fund tax breaks for the rich, echoing a chorus of criticism from Democratic colleagues in Washington. Star-Advertiser.

The federal administration’s full budget proposal for 2018 drew strong criticism from Hawaii’s state representatives who called the plan "cruel" and "dangerous." Pacific Business News.

Hawaii legislators pan Trump budget. Garden Island.

The federal government’s full budget proposal for 2018, which it released on Tuesday, includes over $258 million in construction work a for various projects at Hawaii’s military bases. Pacific Business News.

A man acted strangely long before he caused a disturbance on a plane that prompted fighter jets to accompany it to Hawaii, but a lack of communication and an airline’s hesitancy to be caught on video booting a passenger could have played a role in allowing him to fly, experts say. Associated Press.

Oahu

After more than two years of analysis, number-crunching and talks with developers and housing advocates, the details of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s affordable-housing strategy package is expected to go public today. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is urging the formation of a Task Force to clear illegal homeless camps. Hawaii Public Radio.

A City Council committee on Tuesday revived a bill that would make it illegal for O'ahu residents to look at their phones while crossing a street or highway. KITV.

To accommodate an estimated 10,000 students expected to enroll in urban Honolulu schools as development swells along the city’s rail route, the Board of Education on Tuesday unanimously approved establishing a so-called school impact fee district from Kalihi to Ala Moana. Star-Advertiser.

Despite opposition from developers and the city, the Hawaii Board of Education voted Tuesday to establish a new school impact fee district along the planned Honolulu rail line from Kalihi to Ala Moana to help cover the cost of school services for the area’s anticipated population increase. Civil Beat.

Businesses along Waikiki's famous shoreline are prepping for a big high tide and incoming south swell that could bring coastal flooding later this week. Workers at Hawaiian Oceans Waikiki expect the elevated water levels will force them to alter their operations Thursday and Friday. Hawaii News Now.

At Ala Moana Beach Park, boards and sandbags have been put up to protect against the tides. KHON2.

A circuit judge Tuesday sentenced a former Honolulu police officer to 60 days in jail on multiple drug charges including the promotion of cocaine, marijuana and powerful painkillers. Star-Advertiser.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort is asking permission to use more state land for more weddings. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has approved 420 residential rooftop solar systems attached to batteries on Oahu, but the city Department of Planning and Permitting has given building permits to only 33. Star-Advertiser.

Despite relatively low spending on parks, Honolulu scored in the top third in an annual ranking of urban park systems in the 100 largest U.S. cities. Star-Advertiser.

Urban Honolulu is among the worst places to live in the U.S. if you're trying to save money, according to GOBankingRates.com. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island’s low-income, elderly population could be hit particularly hard under President Donald Trump’s budget proposal, which would deeply cut a federal food assistance program throughout the next decade as well as other “safety net” programs for low-income people. Tribune-Herald.

Shunichi “Shun” Kimura, the Big Island’s last county chairman, its first mayor and a retired Hilo Circuit judge, died Saturday in California after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 87. Tribune-Herald.

West Hawaii dedicates Purple Heart Memorial. West Hawaii Today.

Papaikou retirees seeking patent for little fire ant bait stations. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A Department of Land and Natural Resources enforcement officer is accusing his own agency of covering up the alleged misuse of a state-funded helicopter. Hawaii News Now.

More buses and routes could be ways to ease traffic along the congested Honoapiilani Highway between Maalaea and West Maui, community leaders told the Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization on Monday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai County Council Chairman Derek Kawakami owns more than 14 percent of a company that’s hoping to grow medical marijuana in Hawaii. But you wouldn’t know that if you looked at the financial disclosure form he filed in January with Kauai County. Civil Beat.

A $5 million project to allow development of a substance abuse treatment and healing center for adolescents was unanimously approved by the Planning Commission Tuesday. Garden Island.

After Kauai’s only racetrack was repaved in 2013 thanks to capital improvement plan funds, the drag strip will now add electricity and a scoreboard for its 2018 season. Garden Island.

About 25 percent of Kauai’s keiki are not kindergarten-ready, according to the 2017 Kauai Early Childhood Care and Education Report under the Keiki to Career Kauai Initiative. Garden Island.

Kunoa Cattle Co. which manages a herd of 2,000 cattle on Kauai, has partnered with all Times Supermarkets locations on Oahu and Maui to sell its ground beef. Pacific Business News.

A decline in the price of scrap metal prompted Puhi Metals Recycling Center to start charging commercial haulers for dropping off their recyclables. Garden Island.

Hawaii has high consumer debt, Oahu airport fees to increase, Waimanalo landfill sparks debate, attorneys blamed for loss of lifeguard liability protection, counties react to king tides, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Moana Center © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s high cost of living has given residents the dubious honor of having the second-highest consumer debt per person in the nation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s total consumer debt per capita increased from $51,810 in 2005 to over $67,000 in 2015, making it the second highest in the nation, according to a new report released by the Department of Business and Economic Development. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii residents are rising in the ranks of the indebted. Tribune-Herald.

County officials are blaming a group of prominent personal injury lawyers with strong ties to House leaders for thwarting an effort to extend most liability protection to lifeguards who might face lawsuits related to their jobs. Civil Beat.

It seems every few weeks yet another pundit predicts who Democrats might field for president in 2020. And in more and more cases, Hawaii’s Tulsi Gabbard makes the cut. Civil Beat.

New movie ‘The Islands’ looks for Native Hawaiian to play King Kamehameha. KHON2.

Parents challenge Hawaii's ukus, or head lice, policy in public schools. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists have issued a warning that Hawaii faces the threat of serious coastal flooding this week and in June because a rare convergence of rising sea levels and some of the highest tides of this year. Associated Press.

Oahu

A final decision on the fate of the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill likely will be delayed again due to possible procedural errors by the Honolulu Planning Commission. Star-Advertiser.

A representative from the state Department of Transportation told a room full of pilots and private aviation owners on Monday they are facing double-digit rent increases at Honolulu airports. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply is seeking final public input on options for the future of the precarious Haiku Stairs hiking trail, with all comments due at the end of the day Tuesday. Civil Beat.

The controversial Haiku Stairs have been the subject of debate for years. Now, the Board of Water Supply wants to know what you think the future of the "Stairway to Heaven" should be. Hawaii News Now.

From the wife of the richest man in South Korea to the husband of the CEO of Hawaii’s largest publicly traded company, the first closings of the luxury condominium units at Park Lane Ala Moana appear to be to a mixture of international and local buyers. Pacific Business News.

The city wants to hear from you about a proposal to build a multi-tower, mixed-use development across from Ala Moana Center. KHON2.

The latest homeless point-in-time count indicates an increase among veterans on Oʻahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Last year, Honolulu EMS responded to about 86,000 emergencies. EMS officials say that number will likely climb up as Oahu's population grows. KITV.

State officials have launched a project to study the pueo in an effort to better understand the owl’s ecology on Oahu and to develop standardized surveying methods and management practices. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu is among the top 10 destinations for this upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A planned clean up of the Old Airport Park, set to coincide with the permanent relocation of the some 50-70 homeless individuals that reside there, has been a top priority of the administration since Mayor Harry Kim assumed office.  West Hawaii Today.

Homeless in North Hawaii: part one of a two-part series on how the homeless population in Waimea and throughout North Hawaii is growing. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is hiring staff to fill empty positions at Kona Community Aquatic Center. West Hawaii Today.

Co-op launches effort to make Big Island pork industry viable. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui officials react to king tide predictions. Maui News.

Kauai

A swell will be arriving with the highest water levels of the summer late this week, and experts say tides could rise up to a foot above normal. On Kauai, that means low-lying areas like Hanalei and Kukuiula could be at risk for flooding, according to experts. Garden Island.

School bus contracts given. The Hawaii State Department of Education reached the final phase of its “Get on Board” initiative with new contracts on Kauai for the upcoming school year. Garden Island.