Showing posts with label land use. Show all posts
Showing posts with label land use. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

Locked-out striking nurses, Kapiolani Medical Center reach deal, DHHL launches in-house permitting to get families off wait-list, Honolulu tackles agriculture land use laws, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kapi‘olani and nurses reach deal. Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women &Children and the Hawaii Nurses’ Association on Tuesday reached a tentative contract agreement after over a year of contentious negotiations and on the 18th day of the hospital’s lockout of roughly 600 unionized nurses. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

DHHL launches in-house permitting, fast-tracking its ability to get beneficiaries off the waitlist and into homes. In a milestone initiative, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands Director Kali Watson signed the program’s first in-house building permit for its Yorktown transitional housing project Monday. Big Island Now.

Hawaii tourism industry talks merger, recovery and regeneration. After Alaska Airlines’ $1.9 billion deal to buy Hawaiian Airlines was officially completed two weeks ago, there’s now new marketing as “two beloved brands.” Hawaii News Now.

Voting equipment tested in-person ahead of Nov. 5 general election. In-person logic and accuracy testing was performed Saturday at 875 Waimanu St., No. 106, in Honolulu on voting equipment to be deployed to voter service centers for the Nov. 5 general election. Tests and certification are being conducted this week in each neighbor island county. Big Island Now.

Takamine appointed to state labor board. Gov. Josh Green has appointed Dwight Takamine — a former state legislator, Department of Labor and Industrial Relations director and lawyer — to the Hawaii Labor Relations Board. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Voting explainer: 2024 Honolulu charter amendment ballot questions.  Four Honolulu charter amendment questions in the November election related to the environment, councilmember salaries, an oversight commission, and the hiring of the city’s emergency management leaders. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘Ideological choice’ faces House District 39 voters.
Voters in Royal Kunia-Waipahu-­Honouliuli — part of a West Oahu area that’s been increasingly turning politically red — will have a clear choice between a traditional union-backed Democrat and an incumbent, evangelical Christian Republican whose views are sometimes so extreme that he was condemned by a West side Republican senator. Star-Advertiser.

City Council tackles agriculture changes in land use ordinance overhaul. The Honolulu City Council last week tackled proposed changes to farming, including some to its land use ordinances that  will likely impact housing on farms, raising livestock, beekeeping, agritourism and many other facets of farming operations. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Funding Of Waianae Emergency Room Lags Far Behind Peers. Health center officials want to expand mental health programs, but ER expenses are eating into the budget. Civil Beat.

Cesspool under collapsed North Shore home prompts environmental concerns. The recent partial collapse of an Oʻahu home into the ocean at Kammies Beach has raised a number of environmental concerns, including what's to be done with the property's cesspools. Hawaii Public Radio.

Increase in dog bites on Oahu prompts concern and legislative action. Data shows the number of emergency calls for people who’ve been attacked has jumped nearly 20% in the past year. Hawaii News Now.

Cams to deter West Oahu dumping: ‘I’m tired of waiting’ . Mattresses, washers and dryers and now, a large truck. These are just some items that are dumped along Paakea Road in West Oahu. KHON2.

Honolulu Zoo bids aloha to last 2 resident chimpanzees. The Honolulu Zoo today announced it has bid aloha to its last two chimpanzees, and that they are now living in Texas as preparations get underway for habitat improvements. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

Reinauguration of damaged statue to mark Gandhi Day.  The Gandhi International Institute for Peace will hold a ceremony today, on Mahatma Gandhi Day, to celebrate the restoration and reinauguration of the Gandhi statue in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Second finalist for UH president attends forum in Hilo. The second of two final candidates for the position of University of Hawaii president emphasized respect for Hawaiian culture during a forum Tuesday at UH-Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Pōhakuloa Training Area Advisory Issued. The Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center is underway on Hawaiʻi island, and the U.S. Army says this year’s event has increased in size, scope, scale and noise compared to previous years.  Big Island Video News.

Trails Partially Reopen Following Kīlauea Volcano Eruption. Officials say areas east of Makaopuhi crater remain closed due to volcanic and wildfire-related hazards. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen announces changes in executive leadership, names Cynthia Lallo new chief of staff. Mayor Richard Bissen on Tuesday announced changes in his executive leadership team, designed to enhance his administration’s reach in renewable energy while reorganizing the structure of the Office of the Mayor and the Office of Economic Development. Maui News. Maui Now.  KITV4.

Cause and origin of Lahaina blazes to be released. The Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety will make public today the cause and origin of the Aug. 8, 2023, Lahaina wildfires that killed 102 people, left thousands homeless and crippled Maui’s visitor industry. Star-Advertiser.

Nurses at Maui’s main hospital vote for strike if they don’t get more help. Maui Memorial Medical Center is the only acute care hospital on the island and employees say the safety of the community is at risk. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Maui tourism numbers make jump in August compared to 2023. Visitor numbers still remain below 2019 levels for Maui, state. Maui News.

Kauai

Hawaii’s Popular Kalalau Trail Reopens After Norovirus Outbreak
. The area's popular cave will stay closed, however, because fecal matter was found there as part of the testing and cleanup. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Work on Coco Palms project could be halted by mortgage broker seeking ‘owed’ $1 million commission for securing funding. An upcoming court hearing about the ownership of a prime property on Kauaʻi could lead to another setback for the Utah-based developer who is building a controversial 350-unit hotel on the site that once housed the iconic Coco Palms Resort. Kauai Now.

Visitor arrivals and spending fall in August on Kauai. The Island of Kauai might not have seemed lighter in August, at least by a people count, but it was as the number of visitors and the money they spent dropped significantly in the second full month of summer. Garden Island.

University of Hawai‘i presidential finalists visit Kaua‘i as regents’ decision looms. The two finalists for the president of the University of Hawai‘i’s 10-campus system both visited Kauaʻi to introduce themselves and talk about their vision as part of a three-day state tour. Kauai Now.

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Honolulu computer glitch causes statewide problems, Hirono recovering from second cancer surgery, Biki bike-sharing begins in Honolulu, Maui Hawaiians win quiet title dispute, unexploded ordnance presents Big Island development problem, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Honolulu Hale © 2017 All Hawaii News
An attempt Tuesday to reboot the mainframe computer that runs the state system to renew driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations failed, forcing people to face a third consecutive day of delays on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono’s surgery to remove part of her rib Tuesday was successful, and she is in recovery, according to staff from her office. The operation was the second of two surgeries planned since Hirono was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer earlier this year. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono is recovering from a second surgery following her kidney cancer diagnosis. KHON2.

Papahanaumokuakea National Monument Review Opposed in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner’s six-figure salary last year ranked at the low end of pay for public university leaders, according to a new report released Tuesday night by the Chronicle of Higher Education. Star-Advertiser.

More than 5,000 residents of Hawaii’s Second Congressional District (rural Oahu and the Neighbor Islands) participated in U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s interactive “Telephone Town Hall” on hurricane and disaster preparedness Monday evening. Garden Island.

Oahu

After about five years of preparation, “Biki” — Honolulu’s first major bike-share rental system — finally gets rolling across town today. Star-Advertiser.

The city-sponsored Bikeshare Hawaii program gets underway today — minus about 10 docking stations within Kapiolani Park because of a dispute over whether they should be allowed there. Star-Advertiser.

Crews were busy putting about bikes in place in time for Wednesday's roll out. KITV.

Due to computer mainframe issues, the city Department of Customer Services has made the decision to partially close the city’s driver licensing centers on Wednesday, June 28. KHON2.

The city says driver licensing centers will be partially closed on Wednesday, June 28 due to computer mainframe issues. KITV.

Homeless And Community Service Workers Considered For Park Cleanup. Honolulu City Council members hear ideas for employing the homeless and getting “free labor” from court-ordered workers. Civil Beat.

What to do with recent skeletal discoveries is the question to be discussed by the State Historic Preservation Division and the Oahu Island Burial Council during a meeting Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Special Permits Near Honolulu Rail Line Attract Proposals For Big Hotels. Developers can build higher and denser as long as the city finds that their projects promote “transit-enhanced neighborhoods.” Civil Beat.

As speeding cars and pedestrian safety remains on the mind of some Pearl City residents, a national traffic expert is examining ways to make Oahu's roads safer. Hawaii News Now.

Charley’s Taxi has received a "Certificate of Excellence" from TripAdvisor, becoming Hawaii’s first and only taxicab company to receive the recognition from the online travel site. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

The Monday morning malfunction of a City and County of Honolulu mainframe computer has become a statewide problem for anyone seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license, register a motor vehicle or get a state identification card. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. David Ige plans to veto a bill intended to help businesses extend their leases on state land. The bill, introduced by Rep. Mark Nakashima, was one of eight bills introduced this past session aimed at addressing economic revitalization in Hilo. None of the others passed. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County mayor wants to coordinate the military cleanup of unexploded ordinance in the Former Waikoloa Maneuver Area in order to lift federal funding restrictions for affordable housing. Big Island Video News.

A town hall meeting on Monday night unleashed new outrage and fresh questions about an unauthorized construction project at the Punaluu Boat Launch over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Local businesses along Pawai Place in Kona’s Old Industrial area joined Hope Services and police officers for a street cleanup Tuesday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Division of Motor Vehicles and Licensing Kihei Satellite Office will be closed for about 3 1/2 weeks beginning Monday for expansion work, the county Department of Finance has announced. Maui News.

A 2nd Circuit Court jury returned a verdict Friday in favor of a Native Hawaiian family in a case involving Makila Land Co.’s attempt to quiet title a 3.4-acre kuleana parcel in Kauaula Valley in Lahaina. Maui News.

Kauai

A computer issue that began Monday on Oahu is affecting services at Kauai’s Department of Finance Driver Licensing division. Garden Island.

Jeff Stone, developer of the proposed Princeville Lodge, has withdrawn the project’s shoreline setback application. Garden Island.

Hofgaard Park is closed to allow the County of Kauai Housing Agency to start construction on access improvements aligned with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. Garden Island.

Kapaia swinging bridge to be repaired. Volunteers needed; meeting near site is today. Garden Island.

Monday, February 9, 2015

Ige looks to lobbyists to fill Cabinet, lawmakers mull medical marijuana dispensaries, 13 vie for Mele Carroll's Maui seat, National Guard leaves lava duty, cutting class time again, those darn albizias, more top government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Jan, 26, 2015 courtesy photo
Ige's Jan. 26, 2015 State of the State address, courtesy photo
Three of the people Gov. David Ige picked to head major state agencies were registered lobbyists for companies, organizations or clients whose interests likely will intersect with the departments they were nominated to oversee. Star-Advertiser.

Fifteen years after medical marijuana was legalized in Hawaii, legislators considered a bill Saturday that would finally give patients the ability to legally obtain it even if they can’t grow it themselves. Civil Beat.

A bill in the state Legislature would give voters more information about who is spending money on campaign ads. The proposal would require super PACs and other noncandidate committees to file an additional campaign spending report earlier in the election cycle. Associated Press.

Hawaii Governor David Ige says the state is closely tracking the West Coast terminal labor dispute's potential impact here in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of Hawaii’s public housing projects have an immediate repair and maintenance backlog totaling an estimated $275 million. Over the next decade, that amount is expected to grow to over $820 million, more than the facilities backlogs for public schools and colleges combined. Despite that, Gov. David Ige recently cut the Hawaii Public Housing Authority’s budget request from $180 million to $5 million. Civil Beat.

A state program aimed at protecting and restoring Hawaii's beaches would get up to $3 million in revenues annually under a bill making its way through the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable housing can be hard to find in Hawaii, and one lawmaker is trying to make it easier on families with Section 8 vouchers. Associated Press.

Starting Monday, inspection reports for developmentally disabled adult foster homes will be made available online for the first time. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers for a fourth straight year are considering dialing back the 2010 law that lengthened Hawaii's school day and imposed minimum instructional hours at public schools. Advocates of the law want to see minimum learning times preserved to ensure consistency across schools and help bring Hawaii in line with other states. But the state Department of Education says complying with the law is onerous for schools and the union representing teachers says it infringes on collective bargaining rights. Star-Advertiser.

After years of trying, advocates for children with autism are hopeful that the Legislature will pass a bill requiring medical insurance companies to provide coverage for diagnosis and treatment. Star-Advertiser.

A slew of bills pertaining to animal welfare has been introduced in the state legislature. Tribune-Herald.

After three years with no cases, 15 people in Hawaii came down with measles last year, and health officials worry that unvaccinated people are endangering themselves and others, including infants. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rainstorms have become more numerous on Hawaii island over the past 50 years while becoming less frequent in Leeward Oahu and Central Maui, according to a recent study by a pair of University of Hawaii researchers who tie the phenomenon to climate change. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Army is seeking public comment on a court-ordered environmental study that represents one of the last major hurdles before it can consider resuming controversial live-fire training in Makua Valley. Star-Advertiser.

The owner of a residence on Paiko Peninsula is accused of fiddling with state property and denying public access. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has announced most of his selections for board members of the Hawaii Community Development Authority, a state agency that is in charge of managing land in Kakaako, Kalaeloa and Heeia. Civil Beat.

Home prices on Oahu soared in January, a traditionally slow month for sales, as the median price of a condominium hit a record $381,500, according to statistics released Saturday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

State legislators are taking dead aim at albizia trees in response to the devastation wrought by the invasive species following Tropical Storm Iselle. A total of nine bills directly targeting albizia have been introduced for the 2015 session, including identical companion bills in the House and Senate seeking $2.1 million to remove the most dangerous trees that remain standing near Hawaii Island roadways. Tribune-Herald.

With property lease secured, UH Puako Marine Center project is progressing. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii National Guard’s mission in Puna came to an end this week as the June 27 lava flow continues to show sluggish activity near its front. Darryl Oliveira, Hawaii County Civil Defense administrator, said he amended his request for assistance Monday allowing the withdrawal of National Guard soldiers, who were deployed since late October to help maintain security as the flow approached Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Thirteen people have applied to replace District 13 state Rep. Mele Carroll. The 13 submitted applications to represent the district for East Maui, Lanai and Molokai before the deadline Friday night. Associated Press.

Thirteen candidates have lined up to replace state Rep. Mele Carroll - including an executive assistant to Mayor Alan Arakawa, Carroll's opponent in the last election, businesspeople and officials from environmental nonprofit groups. Maui News.

The Maui County Council approved the reappointment of Patrick Wong as corporation counsel in a meeting Friday that drew more than 50 testifiers, most of them critical of Wong's role in pending litigation involving the stalled initiative calling for a moratorium on the cultivation of genetically engineered crops. Maui News.

Kauai

Developers who want to rebuild Kauai’s historic Coco Palms Resort must address concerns raised by the state Historic Preservation Division before any county permits are issued. Associated Press.

As a county official who oversees nearly 21 beach parks, two stadiums and 44 parks across the island, covering 487 acres, Department of Parks and Recreation Director Lenny Rapozo will tell you there’s a lot of ground to cover. Garden Island.

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Hawaii Senate passes gay marriage bill 20-4, lawmaker sues to stop special session, religious exemption at issue for House, big pay raises for Hawaii County officials, Kauai mayor to decide GMO bill today, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

20-4 vote passes historic measure
Hawaii Senate passes gay marriage courtesy Senate majority
The Hawaii Senate voted overwhelmingly on Wednesday to approve a gay marriage bill, casting the decision as an important leg in the long march toward equality for gays and lesbians. The 20-4 vote sent the bill to the state House, where the House Judiciary and Finance committees will hold a public hearing today. If the committees amend the bill, which is likely in order to win over some House lawmakers worried about the scope of a religious exemption, then the bill would return to the Senate for another review. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate passed a bill Wednesday legalizing gay marriage, sending the measure to more uncertain prospects in the House. After nearly two hours of discussion on the Senate floor on the merits of allowing same-sex couples to marry, the bill passed easily, 20-4, with one senator abstaining. The Hawaii Senate is dominated by Democrats, with only one Republican. Associated Press.

The tide of history flowed smoothly through the Hawaii Senate chamber Wednesday, where same-sex marriage legislation passed 20-4. Democrats Donna Mercado Kim, Ron Kouchi and Mike Gabbard voted "no," as did lone Republican Sam Slom. Democrat Glenn Wakai was excused because of a death in the family. Senate Bill 1 now heads to the House of Representatives, where the gay-marriage wave is sure to encounter rougher waters. Civil Beat.

Senators passed SB 1, the "Hawaii Marriage Equality Act of 2013", on their third reading Wednesday afternoon and sent it over the House where it passed its first reading, but not without a fight and a lot of political posturing.  Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Senate voted Wednesday to pass a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage, moving the issue over to the House, where two committees are expecting hundreds of people to testify at a Thursday hearing. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii State Senate today passed a measure to legalize same-sex marriage in the State of Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

Some House lawmakers want an exemption in the same-sex marriage bill that gives small businesses, especially those in the wedding industry, an "opt out" option. Hawaii News Now.

I was there the day the battle for same-sex marriages began in Hawaii. It was December 17, 1990. A KITV cameraman and I followed three homosexual couples as they marched ceremoniously down Beretania Street to the State Health Department to file for marriage licenses. Civil Beat.

In 1998, Hawaii voters approved an amendment to the state constitution that supporters said was against same-sex marriage. Today, supporters of gay marriage say the same amendment supporters their side. State Rep. Bob McDermott (R-Ewa, Ewa Beach, Iroquois Point) filed a lawsuit in state Circuit Court Wednesday to try to settle the question. Hawaii News Now.

At least one lawmaker is taking his fight against same-sex marriage to court. Rep. Bob McDermott filed a lawsuit to try and stop the special session. KHON2.

A number of people on both sides of the gay marriage debate say the current draft of Senate Bill 1, which would legalize same-sex ceremonies, infringes on religious liberty. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaii Department of Education announced today that it’s had to revise 37 high schools’ Strive HI scores after finding flaws in graduation rate data used in part to evaluate how well schools are closing the achievement gap. Civil Beat.

A national report praises Hawaii for being one of only a few states with a teacher evaluation system that ties teachers’ compensation to their performance. Associated Press.

An eyeless shrimp and 14 other Hawaii creatures and plants have been added to the endangered species list, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said. Associated Press.

Oahu

A civilian procurement official for the Navy is facing criminal charges for allegedly steering federal work to government contractors that hired his wife. Federal prosecutors have charged 56-year-old William Nesmith of Ewa Beach with two counts of conflict of financial interest involving the awards of more than $15 million in naval contracts. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's Department of Health will use a $2.1 million federal grant to run a three-year program expected to serve at least 120 people who are considered chronically homeless. Associated Press.

Oahu residents will have to fend off wild chickens on their own and gripe directly to police about noisy roosters because of a cost-cutting measure by the Caldwell administration. In a move to reduce spending, Managing Director Ember Shinn decided in late August or early September to not award an $80,000 contract for crowing rooster and feral chicken control services, city Customer Services Director Sheri Kajiwara told the City Council Budget Committee on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The city insisted Wednesday that its sewage system in Kakaako can handle new condominium tower projects in the area, but acknowledged that foul odors escaping the system are a problem that needs to be fixed. Star-Advertiser.

Architecture firm Perkins+Will said Wednesday that it opened its 24th worldwide office in Honolulu, to focus on work related to the city’s planned $5.16 billion rail transit project. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Double-digit raises are coming to 12 county officials Friday under a pay plan unanimously approved Wednesday by the Hawaii County Salary Commission. The salary plan, designed to make Hawaii County officials’ salaries more on par with those on other islands and to make sure no department head is making less money than his or her subordinates, adds from $10,218 to $17,598 to salaries of the 12 officials. West Hawaii Today.

Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory have created a thermal image video of the lava lake in Halemaumau Crater that shows lava upwelling in the lake and spreading out like sheets of ice on the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Ocean View Food Pantry reopens after short hiatus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Halloween in Lahaina will go on this year Thursday - without the legal protests of the past couple of years - as preparations are made for more than 30,000 revelers along Front Street. Maui News.

Maui County water officials called on Upcountry residents Wednesday to double their voluntary water conservation, reducing normal use by 20 percent, due to the dry weather conditions. Maui News.

A Maui County Council committee Tuesday recommended a new independent appraisal for Launiupoko lands the county administration wants to purchase for open space and park use, with the committee chairman calling the current appraisal "fundamentally flawed." Maui News.

To encourage Central Maui residents to exercise more every day, Maui County has teamed up with local groups to come up with a 20-year master plan that identifies areas in Kahului, Wailuku and Waikapu that could be made more bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly. Maui News.

Kauai

Gov. Neil Abercrombie abruptly withdrew the name of his nominee to the state Land Board after his pick for the Kauai seat said for personal reasons he no longer wanted to be considered, a development that was welcomed by critics who said a land developer shouldn't have been selected. Star-Advertiser.

Shawn Smith, general manager of land investment company Falko Partners, LLC, withdrew his nomination to the state Board of Land and Natural Resources Wednesday, state officials said. Garden Island.

The corporation overseeing Kauai’s two public hospitals will seek $7.3 million in emergency funding at a public hearing today before the state Legislature to keep the state-funded public health system afloat. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council, as well as many members of the public, are waiting anxiously to see whether Mayor Bernard Carvalho will veto the bill which requires biotech companies to disclose pesticide use and farmers to report any genetically engineered crops they are growing. The mayor has until Thursday (Oct. 31) to decide what he’s going to do with the bill. Civil Beat.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Hawaii teachers union rejects contract, Green Party sues state elections office, Inouye remains hospitalized, UH Pisces program at sea over budget cuts, TPL finalizes $25M Oahu land buy, Maui Island Plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii State Teachers Association
Hawaii State Teachers Association courtesy photo
The teachers union has turned down a settlement offer that would have included the restoration of a 5 percent wage cut, 2 percent raises each year of the 2013-15 contract and $2,500 bonuses for new teachers who successfully complete probation. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teacher's Association's negotiating team has reportedly rejected the state's most recent contract offer, according to a Hawaii Department of Education spokesperson.  Hawaii News Now.

Work-to-the-rule is something teachers practice poorly at best and not at all at worst. Civil Beat.

The Green Party of Hawaii and seven voters representing every major island are suing state Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago, alleging he improperly promulgated rules dealing with ballot shortages in the Nov. 6 General Election. West Hawaii Today.

The Green Party of Hawaii is suing the state and its chief election officer because of how the general election last month was conducted. Associated Press.

The Green Party of Hawaii has asked a state court to stop the chief elections officer from conducting another election until there are new rules in place to prevent the type of voter disenfranchisement that occurred in November. Civil Beat.


Sen. Daniel Inouye (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has been hospitalized since Thursday after he fainted while in one of his Senate offices, according to his staff. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye was admitted Sunday to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for observation related to his oxygen intake. Inouye fainted at his office on Dec. 6 and was taken to George Washington University Hospital. Hawaii News Now.

As part of a $25.4 million upgrade, State Civil Defense officials are changing how they activate Hawaii's tsunami sirens. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii submersible program, already hit by federal budget cuts, is trying to line up research and commercial dives next year to keep the 32-year-old program afloat but has no contracts yet, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

FCC’s Plan to Put Political Ad Data Online Falls Short. Civil Beat.

More than 270 accountants, attorneys and tax experts attended a workshop today to hear about what the State Tax Department is doing to increase revenues. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for December 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

The state and a nonprofit organization have finalized the $25 million purchase of one of Oahu's largest tracts of undeveloped land in a move expected to significantly expand food production and make Hawaii more self-sufficient. Star-Advertiser.

The Trust for Public Land’s purchase of 1,743 acres of former pineapple fields in Central Oahu from the George Galbraith Trust for $25 million closed on Monday, according to Bishop Street Commercial, which handled the sale. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

There were no incidents at Kealakehe High on Monday, the first day back for students since fighting linked to racial tensions caused school officials to cancel classes Friday. Star-Advertiser.

One of two men who escaped from Hawaii Community Correctional Center last Wednesday allegedly choked an unarmed, 63-year-old guard while the other punched the victim and stole his keys to the facility, according to court documents. Tribune-Herald.

Jamae Kawauchi Starts New Job As Deputy Prosecutor. Big Island Now.

According to an application filed in October, a South Kohala company wants to develop about 150 2-acre lots, but there’s a problem: the lot size is a deviation from the 5 acres required by the area’s zoning. West Hawaii Today.

Renovations to the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium are scheduled to begin Monday and end just before the start of next year’s Merrie Monarch Festival. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island had the highest rate of violations in the state, with 8.1 percent percent of the stores selling to minors. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council today voted to advance on first reading the Maui Island Plan by a 7-2 vote, but not before making amendments to add in and remove certain lands from the plan's directed growth boundaries. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member-elect Don Guzman raised nearly 30 times as much money as opponent Alan Fukuyama to win the council's Kahului residency seat, according to a Maui News analysis of campaign spending reports. Maui News.

Two of the three coral species found in Hawaii that have been proposed for listing as endangered or threatened species by the National Marine Fisheries Service are growing off the shores of Maui. Maui News.

Combining a passion for supporting local agriculture and producing innovative beers, the latest round of Maui Brewing Co.'s seasonal canned brews showcases Maui-grown breadfruit as its star ingredient. Maui News.

Kauai

The county of Kauai has a program aimed at cracking down on junk mail and saving landfill space. Associated Press.

The basketball courts at Laukona and Wiliko parks in Hanama‘ulu were closed Friday, and will continue to be closed for approximately two weeks for resurfacing. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank’s Holiday Food and Fund drive got a boost over the weekend with contributions from CBRE, the management company for the Kukui Grove Center, as well as Cub Scouts from Cub Pack 148 in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.


Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Hula is good for your health, state pays millions in special ed cases, UH loses Maui supercomputer contract, Big Island agri-tourism bill aired, Public Land Development Corp. unpopular, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2012 All Hawaii News
Hawaii hula girls (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
Hula practitioners have long touted the health benefits of Hawaii's signature dance form. Now, thanks to a new study on the rehabilitative potential of hula for heart patients, they have the science to support their claims. Star-Advertiser.

The state has agreed to pay $4.4 million to settle a landmark lawsuit filed by a couple who alleged the Department of Education failed to provide their daughters with appropriate autism-specific services during the girls' formative years in the 1990s. Star-Advertiser.

The Public Land Development Corp. was created last year as an arm of the State Department of Land and Natural Resources to partner with the private sector to make better use of state property. But the PLDC's launch has been undermined by a poorly articulated description of its mission and suspicion from environmentalists and some Native Hawaiian activists that it would open the door to shadowy development interests. Star-Advertiser.

The race between Mazie Hirono and Linda Lingle for Sen. Daniel Akaka’s U.S. Senate seat has both local and national implications. Civil Beat.

What lessons can be learned from the University of Hawaii's handling of the botched Stevie Wonder concert? The State Senate may try to answer that question. KHON2.

State roundup for Aug. 29. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city of Honolulu awarded more than $75 million in new rail-related design and professional services contracts in the weeks before the rail project was halted by a Hawaii Supreme Court ruling, state procurement records show. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu rapid transit chief Dan Grabauskas told the City Council two weeks ago that 75 per cent of necessary archeological surveys along the rail route remain to be done and won’t be completed until the end of this year. Hawaii Reporter.

State Sen. Carol Fukunaga filed nomination papers on Tuesday to run for the Honolulu City Council's District 6 seat vacated earlier this month by congressional candidate Tulsi Gabbard. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu City Council committee voted unanimously to advance a measure setting a procedure to suspend a Council member without pay for up to a month if colleagues determine he or she has violated order or decorum of a Council meeting. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council appears to be on the verge of approving a bill to legalize the peddling of goods on Mo’ili’ili sidewalks. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state Supreme Court has dismissed a primary election challenge filed by a losing candidate for Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu paramedics are learning new tactics to combat Hawaii's growing sex trafficking problem. KITV4.

A breakdown of Honolulu Police Department overtime costs for special protection details. Civil Beat.

Agriculture theft is a growing concern on Oahu's North Shore. KHON2.

More than one in five Honolulu residents is classified as a young adult, with nearly 22 percent of Oahu’s population falling into the 20- to 34-year-old demographic, according to an analysis of Census data. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu Civil Beat said Tuesday that it has hired Jayson Harper as general manager of the online news operation. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii
A proposal to create new rules for small agri-tourism enterprises has generated so much controversy that County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong has scheduled a public hearing Tuesday to air residents’ concerns. West Hawaii Today.

Goodfellow Bros. submitted the apparent low bid to build the western end of Saddle Road. West Hawaii Today.

A West Hawaii legislator would like to see a moratorium on approving new power purchase agreements that do not decrease the cost of electricity until the state irons out details on how it should pursue its renewable energy goals. West Hawaii Today.

County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi on Monday declined to attend a meeting on Oahu on the use of voting machines. Big Island Now.

The Weather Channel’s new series “Hawaii Air Rescue” follows Hawaii Life Flight crews. West Hawaii Today.

Ever wonder what happens on those medevac flights that take patients from the Big Island to Oahu? Tribune-Herald.

For the 50th annual Merrie Monarch Festival, which kicks off March 31, in Hilo, the festival committee, led by President Luana Kawelu, wanted to do something different. They’re going back to the festival’s roots. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The University of Hawaii has lost the biggest contract in the school's history, worth tens of millions of dollars, to run a supercomputer center on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Tennessee Judge Larry Potter, who created one of the nation's first environmental courts, was invited to Maui on Saturday as the keynote speaker in a daylong conference hosted by Keep the Hawaiian Islands Beautiful to try to establish the state's first environmental court in Maui County, organizers of the event, Laulima 2012, said. Maui News.

Will Spence, the planning director for the County of Maui, will discuss land use matters at a public informational meeting in Hana on Thursday, August 30. Maui Now.

Maui County is moving ahead with plans to build a $4.5 million rock seawall to protect its Wailuku-Kahului sewage treatment plant from erosion eating away at the beach fronting the facility. Maui News.

Kauai
Kauai County taxpayers are forking over tens of thousands of dollars to settle claims of racial discrimination filed by current and former employees of the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. Civil Beat.

The popularity of cars utilizing sources other than gasoline has skyrocketed, said Pat Iwasaki of Kaua‘i Toyota during the Kaua‘i County Farm Bureau Fair. Garden Island.

Clarissa Chun, London Olympics bronze medalist in women’s wrestling, challenged Kaua‘i High School students to find a passion about what you want to do and stick to it. Garden Island.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Hawaii Medal of Honor ceremony honors war dead, Honolulu Civil Beat editor heads to Washington Post, Legislature mulls state bank, mandatory sick leave, charter schools, new garbage study for Big Island, hostess bars for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Medal of Honor ceremony, courtesy House Majority Office
Hundreds of people gathered at the State Capitol Wednesday to remember 24 servicemen with Hawaii ties who died during the past year in Iraq and Afghanistan. Hawaii News Now.

The annual Hawaii Medal of Honor ceremony is more than just a time to recognize and honor fallen troops. It's a time for friends, colleagues and loved ones of the dead to gather, console and connect with each other, to be reassured that those close to them will not be forgotten, and to be welcomed into the island ohana. Star-Advertiser.


courtesy House Majority
The families of two dozen fallen service members received the Hawaii Medal of Honor on Wednesday. It was a chance to thank them and their loved ones for protecting our country. KITV4.

Abercrombie: Environmental Critics Are 'Apocalyptic Naysayers' Civil Beat.

Large private sector employers without labor contracts would have to provide workers with up to five days a year in paid sick and safe leave under a bill approved Wednesday by the state Senate Judiciary and Labor Committee. Star-Advertiser.

Should the State of Hawaii open up its own bank? Some lawmakers want to saying it will stimulate economic growth and development.  But opponents say taxpayers shouldn't be backing risky loans. Hawaii News Now.

Public assistance recipients might be able to put away more in savings under a proposal before the state legislature. Associated Press.

A 90-plus-page bill to boost the accountability of Hawaii charter schools is racing toward passage in the Legislature. Civil Beat.

A bill that would relax some of the state building code requirements was gutted when it crossed from the House to the Senate, Rep. Robert Herkes, D-Puna, Ka‘u, South Kona, North Kona, said. West Hawaii Today.

Dog fighting bill ripped, gutted and turned into something else. KHON2.

Hawaii Land Use Commission’s top exec Dan Davidson will retire. Pacific Business News.

Navy Seeks Expanded Partnerships to Reach Clean Energy Goals. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Civil Beat Editor and General Manager John Temple has accepted a new position as managing editor of The Washington Post. Civil Beat.

The arrest of four city supervisors and eight inmates on drug and contraband charges has triggered scrutiny of the prison work lines. KITV4.

More new Honolulu residents moved from San Diego than from any other county in the United States, and more former Honolulu residents moved to San Diego than anywhere else. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's newly appointed CEO Daniel  met with the head of the Federal Transit Administration and Hawaii's congressional delegation this week to lobby for federal funds for the city's planned $5.3 billion elevated steel on steel rail project. Hawaii Reporter.

As the city and county of Honolulu prepare to begin construction of the $5.3 billion rail project, KITV4 News has learned some out-of-state workers are already on the job. KITV4.

Honolulu Zoo staff Wednesday were trying to lure back three exotic birds after they escaped earlier this week when vandals cut holes in their cages. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The county could save up to $1.5 million annually by trucking East Hawaii’s garbage to West Hawaii rather than expanding the Hilo landfill, according to a consultant’s report released Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's largest grower of macadamia nuts plans to break into the business of making and selling processed food products after decades of selling raw nuts to processing and marketing companies, including Hershey Co. Star-Advertiser.

The Hilo Veterans Administration clinic is looking for a new location in town to call home. Tribune-Herald.

Spilled mercury found Wednesday at a Hawaii County Department of Water Supply facility in Waimea resulted in no reported injuries, according to the Hawaii Fire Department. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa said that the county can cut around 33 positions from its payroll for 2013, thanks to his employee attrition policy. Maui News.

The Liquor Commission’s recommendation to remove the 12 cap limit for hostess bar licenses on the island, “is too extreme a change all at one time,” said Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui Now.

A settlement has been reached in a dispute over the proposed 310-room expansion of the Grand Wailea. Maui News.

Kauai

The entire island of Kauai went dark, some communities for six hours Wednesday, when a transformer failed at Kauai Island Utility Cooperative's Port Allen Generating Station. Star-Advertiser.

The power outage that occurred at the peak of the Wednesday afternoon rush hour was an island-wide shutdown. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council spent the entire day deliberating on a bill proposing further property tax exemption for Kaua‘i residents, only to see decision-making cut short by the island-wide power failure about 5:15 p.m. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai residents are used to some of the highest gas prices in the nation. But with an overnight jump of 25 cents last week – reaching $5.36 for regular unleaded – even locals were left in disbelief. Molokai Dispatch.

Friday, January 27, 2012

Military beefing up in Hawaii, no drug testing of welfare recipients, three quit charter school board in protest, gambling proposed on Hawaiian lands, Internet tracking bill unpopular, bag fee in the works, land fund headed to Hawaii County ballot, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pohakuloa Training Area (c) 2012 All Hawaii News
Hawaii's military future could include another Navy cruiser and at least 1,000 more Marines if some forces are removed from Okinawa. Star-Advertiser

Sen. Daniel Inouye said on Thursday that he expects “an increase of military personnel and assets” in the Pacific, including in Hawaii. Inouye’s remarks came after Defense Secretary Leon Panetta outlined his department’s budget plan for the next five years. Civil Beat.

A host of bills before the State Legislature are dedicated to women veterans this year. KHON2.

Once again, Hawaii state and county government agencies spent far more money lobbying in Washington D.C. than private companies did, according to 2011 U.S. Senate lobbyist disclosure reports. Hawaii Reporter.

State Rep. Mele Carroll has reintroduced a bill that would allow gaming on Hawaiian homestead lands to provide a source of funds for the Department of Hawaiian Home Land's developments and programs. Maui News.

Two Maui law makers are introducing separate gaming measures in the state legislature this session. Maui Now.

Spurred by a dramatic rise in computer-related crimes — including possibly affecting one of their own colleagues — lawmakers have introduced more than 30 measures in the Hawaii Legislature concerning cybercrime. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers decided Thursday to leave online piracy legislation to Congress after hearing vehement opposition to a bill that called for keeping records of Hawaii users' Internet activity. Associated Press.

Internet privacy advocates, web entrepreneurs and business owners turned out in droves on Thursday to denounce a bill before the Hawaii Legislature that would require Internet service providers to keep a record of every website visited by subscribers for no less than two years. Civil Beat.

Hawaii won't be drug testing public assistance applicants and recipients any time soon. Associated Press.

State politicians are running some old plays this week in an effort to convince the NFL that the Pro Bowl belongs in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The Legislature is considering a statewide measure to have consumers pay for plastic and paper shopping bags. Hawaii Public Radio.

Consumers Could Be Charged for Plastic and Paper Bags. Civil Beat.

"Bag ban" could go state-wide & include paper. Hawaii News Now.

Credit monitoring and fraud restoration services will be provided to about 98,000 University of Hawaii students, alumni, faculty, employees and others potentially affected by five data breaches that occurred from 2009 to 2011, under a settlement reached in a class-action lawsuit. Star-Advertiser.

Federal data show cutting Hawaiian monk seals free from fishing nets, moving vulnerable pups away from preying sharks and other efforts to rescue the animals are significantly helping the endangered species. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city will agree to a new change order worth about $15 million to pay the company holding the contract to build the first segment of the rail line because of delays in the start of construction, according to officials with the Hono­lulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Inspectors from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA ) have identified a snake killed on Wednesday near Honolulu airport as a bullsnake. Hawaii News Now.

Longtime Hawaii television newsman Jack Kellner died Wednesday night in California. KITV4.

Hawaii

Three longtime members of the Charter School Review Panel — Chairman Carl Takamura, former Chairwoman Ruth Tschumy and Pualani Akaka — resigned Thursday to protest the state Board of Education's reversal of the panel's decisions on converting Laupahoehoe School to a charter school. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County voters will once again get the opportunity to weigh in on a 2 percent land fund, now that Mayor Billy Kenoi has signed a bill putting it on the ballot. West Hawaii Today.

Big Brother is watching — but he is supposed to be helping. West Hawaii Today.

Some day, a new gym on the Hilo High School campus will give students, athletes and their fans the chance to enjoy games at home. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu-based military units will convoy from Pohakuloa Training Area to Kawaihae Harbor on Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. via Saddle Road, Mamalahoa Highway, Waikoloa Road, Queen Kaahumanu Highway and Akoni Pule corridor. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Staffing levels at Maui's only Veterans Affairs clinic are at 50 percent, resulting in long waits for veterans who need care, officials acknowledged Tuesday. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa expressed enthusiasm as the state Legislative session gets underway. Maui Now.

Southerly winds are expected to prevail through today, and volcanic haze, or vog, should continue to hang in the air Friday and start to clear up Saturday, National Weather Service forecaster Vic DeJesus said Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

In 2011 Kauai’s beaches and surfbreaks were mostly clean, but some were definitely not. Garden Island.

In response to the growing trend of crimes perpetrated against the elderly, Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho will be holding several senior fraud presentations across the island. Garden Island.

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement has joined other national community advocates in an amicus (friend of the court) brief to be filed with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the Affordable Care Act. Garden Island.

Molokai

Department of Land and Natural Resources is holding a community meeting regarding the security perimeter at the Kauanakakai Wharf to accommodate American Safari Cruises visits to Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Hawaii mourns death of noted law professor, author, Jon Van Dyke, Congressman seeks probe of Honolulu TSA, drunk Honolulu councilman causes a stir at APEC, Hawaii County completes redistricting, Molokai Dispatch cutting back, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

UH law professor Jon Van Dyke courtesy photo

University of Hawaii law professor Jon Van Dyke was a leading authority on Native Hawaiian, U.S. constitutional, environmental and international issues. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii Professor of Law Jon Van Dyke passed away in his sleep last night while at a conference in Australia. Hawaii Reporter.

Jon M. Van Dyke, a prominent University of Hawaii law professor, author and advocate for Native Hawaiian rights, has died. He was 68. Associated Press.

There are few people in Hawaii more influential than Professor Jon Van Dyke. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii has lost one of its greatest legal minds. KHON2.

The following is a message by Aviam Soifer, a dean at the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law, notifying UH law students of the recent passing of professor Jon Van Dyke. Hawaii Independent.

Sen. Daniel Inouye issued a statement in remembrance of Jon Van Dyke, the well-known Hawaii constitutional law professor who died on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Jon Van Dyke, a constitutional law professor at the University of Hawaii’s Richardson School of Law, has died. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Honolulu City Councilman Tom Berg denies being drunk but doesn't dispute a police report that says he became argumentative and combative with Secret Service agents at a Nov. 12 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation reception. Star-Advertiser.

The chair of the Honolulu City Council says he will not strip Councilmember Tom Berg of his committee voting rights after recent reports of "unruly" behavior. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Councilman Breene Harimoto says colleague Tom Berg’s “argumentative and aggressive behavior” is disruptive and warrants his removal from all committee assignments. KHON2.

The ranking Democrat on the U.S. House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee has sent a letter to the Transportation Security Administration, demanding information and a halt to a controversial TSA program, in reaction to an investigation by KITV 4 News earlier this month. KITV4.

Rail opponents say they're ready to ask a federal judge for an immediate stop to Honolulu's rail project if construction gets underway before an environmental suit is resolved. KHON2.

Federal environmental protection officials have set new monitoring rules and deadlines for the city to complete improvements at Waimanalo Gulch Landfill, nearly a year after the uncontrolled release of stormwater swept refuse strewn with medical waste into the ocean along the Waianae Coast. Star-Advertiser.

The lawsuit against the Honolulu rail project is on track for a February showdown that will determine if the city can proceed with construction. Civil Beat.

A contract for a new wind farm on Oahu's north shore is raising questions about why a project developer doesn't have to reveal seemingly critical financial information to state regulators who are charged with protecting consumer interests. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

After tweaking the boundary between North and South Kona, smoothing the line between North Kona and Kohala and ensuring most of Keaau stayed in Hilo's District 3, the county Redistricting Commission put its stamp of approval Wednesday on new County Council districts for the next 10 years. West Hawaii Today.

Starting with next year's elections, Hilo will have two County Council members rather than the current three, while Puna will gain a second seat.Tribune-Herald.

The administrator of Hawaii County's Civil Defense Agency is retiring effective today. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Maui island saw a dip in visitor arrivals and spending in October compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released Tuesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui News.

County Council members will continue their review of the Maui Island Plan at a meeting Thursday. Maui News.

The County Council Water Resources Committee heard public testimony Tuesday on proposed changes to the "Show Me the Water" ordinance, but the panel deferred action. Maui News.

Council members in Maui County are in the middle of difficult decisions about how to bring more fairness to the way property is taxed. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

The state Department of Health has cited a Honolulu company for violating asbestos removal requirements last April at Kekaha Sugar Mill. Garden Island.

Merriman’s Fish House in Po‘ipu is the locale of the next episode of “Chef Hunters” on the Food Network airing at 5 p.m. today. Garden Island.

Molokai

Kalaupapa airfares should drop significantly in the coming month. Molokai Dispatch.

Changes Coming to The Molokai Dispatch. Molokai Dispatch.