Taking out the trash in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, state House, citing Korea threat, seeks fallout shelter plans, Honolulu airport spending probed, Maui water woes, Kauai police cams protect officers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monk seal on fish nets, courtesy NOAA

100,000 Pounds Of Debris Hauled Out Of Papahanaumokuakea. The marine junk from the reefs and shores of Midway and Kure atolls was brought to Honolulu, where it will be incinerated. Civil Beat.

Agencies join to ship 50 tons of trash from atolls. The charter vessel Kahana arrived here last week carrying 12 shipping containers filled with derelict fishing gear, old nets, faded plastics and lots of other junk. Star-Advertiser.

NOAA

Derelict Fishing Gear in the Pacific Northwest. NOAA blog.

Approximately 100,000 pounds of marine debris was removed from sites within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Maui Now.

Hawaii lawmakers want state officials to update plans for coping with a nuclear attack as North Korea develops nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles that can reach the islands. The state House public safety committee unanimously passed a resolution Thursday. Associated Press.

State lawmakers introduced a resolution this week urging the state Department of Defense to update disaster preparation plans for Hawaii in the event of a nuclear attack amid escalating political tensions between the United States and North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

Tensions are firing up with North Korea, and the situation is especially concerning for Hawaii given how close we are to the country. KHON2.

Rep. Matthew LoPresti says a revisiting of Hawaii’s disaster resilience plan has been a long time coming and is particularly crucial now in light of escalating threats of a North Korean nuclear attack on the state — or at least the escalating perception of such threats. West Hawaii Today.

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The chairwoman of a key committee involved in confirming Gov. David Ige’s controversial nominee for the state’s Public Utilities Commission indicated she will allow the governor’s choice to move ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Why Tom Gorak’s Appointment To The PUC May Be In Trouble. As the legislative session nears its end, a committee hearing has not been scheduled on the nomination. Civil Beat.

A pair of bills that would’ve changed Hawaii law in response to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s “quiet title” actions filed against owners of small pieces of land, or kuleana lands, have been shelved. Pacific Business News.

Eight Hawaii hospitals received a top grade of "A" in the latest national hospital safety report from The Leapfrog Group. Pacific Business News.

More Hawaii public school students are expected to secure internships and apprenticeships during and after high school under a new initiative to better prepare graduates for high-demand jobs and expose them to potential careers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A consultant tasked with overseeing construction on a long-stalled $90 million maintenance and cargo project at Honolulu airport was later granted a $2.4 million contract extension by the state, and some lawmakers want to know why. Star-Advertiser.

The state will continue community meetings next week to discuss the future of the Oahu Community Correctional Center. KITV.

NRG Energy, the Houston-based company that took over bankrupt SunEdison’s renewable energy projects in Hawaii, plans to start construction on these three projects next year, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Council talks trash: West Hawaii landfill expected to last 150 years. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo is employing drones to track the impact of rising sea levels on Hawaii Island shores. Tribune-Herald.

Will Popular Big Island Trail Someday Get Toilets? Big Island activists have for years unsuccessfully prodded officials to install toilets on the ancient Kaawaloa trail to the Captain Cook Monument. Civil Beat.

A massive “tree” is taking root on Kawailani Street in Hilo as a large cellular tower put in place earlier this year is covered with fake green branches. Tribune-Herald.

Report paves way for Peter Boy lawsuit: Probe finds state failed to follow its own rules. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Numbers Behind the Upcountry Water Shortage. Maui Now.

Upcountry water users are using slightly less water several days after the county Department of Water Supply issued a directive calling for voluntary conservation due to recent low rainfall in a watershed. Maui News.

As required by the State Department of Health, the Department of Water Supply is informing the public of the continued use of Wākiu Well C, the new water source for the Wākiu area, Hāna School, Hāna Medical Center, Waiʻānapanapa area, and ʻUakea Road. Maui Now.

The Maui County Liquor Control Commission has tentatively scheduled a special meeting for May 9 to hear public testimony on new liquor rules that allow the retail sale of alcohol 24/7. Maui News.

Charge for threat on mayor dismissed. This is the second time count dropped against Wailuku man. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai police use body cam footage to clear officers of misconduct claims. Hawaii News Now.

The young seal removed from Lihi Canal in Kapaa has returned after being relocated to the Westside late last month, and experts aren’t going to move the seal again. Garden Island.

Kamalani Bridge at Lydgate Park will be closed from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday to allow a group of volunteers to spray paint the structure. Spearheading the project is The Friends of Kamalani and Lydgate Park. Garden Island.

Lanai

Despite heavy rain, about 100 people sloshed through the puddles to the community center in this tiny town for a chance to hear U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who has become something of a media celebrity on national TV networks. Civil Beat.

Hawaii tourism agency targets NYC, state battles occupiers of iconic Coco Palms resort, Maui coffee bonds advance, Ige bolsters state building code, groups fight over seal protection, more money sought in Honolulu police cases, tax on Amazon purchases coming, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach scene © 2017 All Hawaii News

Tourists in Hawai’i spend $33,000 a minute. That’s up 8 percent in average visitor spending from the same time last year, according the Hawai’i Tourism Authority.  Nearly three-fourths are return visitors, so the marketing strategy for the mainland is to focus on the “Never Beens.” And that market’s New York. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii will host its largest incentive travel group from China next month, but roughly 40 percent of Nu Skin’s top distributors won’t be joining their peers because their visa applications were rejected. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has updated the state’s building codes and standards, requiring new construction to be more energy-efficient. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii could save more than $14 billion in energy costs during the next 20 years under a new building code recently signed by Gov. David Ige. Pacific Business News.

Worried about the state’s anemic voter turnout, two Senate committees unanimously approved legislation Thursday to implement voting by mail for all Hawaii counties by 2020. Civil Beat.

Startup technology companies boosted by government funds in Hawaii boosted the amount of taxes they paid the state last year by 74 percent, according to a recent survey. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s incubator and manufacturing companies contributed $619.6 million to the state’s economy in 2016, according to the results of an annual survey conducted by the High Technology Development Corp. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige nominated Tom Gorak to be confirmed as a commissioner of the state panel responsible for regulating public utilities, after having served as interim commissioner for nine months. Star-Advertiser.

It’s not exactly a Christmas holiday-level deluge, but the U.S. Postal Service is seeing a significant boost in the number of Amazon packages shipped to Hawaii in advance of the giant online retailer collecting the state’s general excise tax here starting Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Amazon tax: Burden or boon? Hawaii consumers, retail industry divided on added charge. Tribune-Herald.

The Trump administration filed a notice Thursday to appeal U.S. District Court Judge Derrick Watson’s nationwide stay against the president’s revised executive order on immigration. Civil Beat.

President Donald Trump’s administration on Thursday appealed the latest court ruling against his revised travel ban to the same court that refused to reinstate the original version. Associated Press.

Lawmakers Urge Medical Help For Micronesian Veterans. Service members from Palau, the Marshall Islands and the Federated States are not eligible for U.S. care. Civil Beat.

Some Hawaii lawmakers are pushing to criminally charge people who leave their dog tied up too long. Garden Island.

Oahu

Proposed Increases In Honolulu Taxes And Fees Will Be ‘A Tough Sell.' City officials say the cost of government operations is growing — including salaries, pensions and other benefits. But some council members are pushing back. Civil Beat.

A private security officer who shot a pet dog in the head in front of its owner at Honolulu Airport Tuesday night is being investigated for reckless endangering in the second degree and was previously fired as a civilian police officer for the Army “for pulling a gun too much,” according to state Sen. Will Espero. Star-Advertiser.

State releases nearly 400-page airport security contract with Securitas. KHON2.

Ten women have filed a lawsuit alleging they were sexually assaulted and harassed by four guards and one Department of Public Safety worker while incarcerated at the Women’s Community Correctional Center in Kailua. Star-Advertiser.

City seeks more funding for firms to fight lawsuit filed by former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his family. Star-Advertiser.

Another Honolulu police officer, high in the ranks, has retired while being examined for his role in a federal public corruption case. Hawaii News Now.

Beach confrontations over the critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals are spilling over into Hawaii's courtrooms. In a lawsuit filed in state Circuit Court, a woman known for helping rescue seals said she's being harassed by volunteers for a nonprofit group that works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which monitors monk seals in Hawaiian waters. Hawaii News Now.

The long-vacant Queen Emma Building in Downtown Honolulu could be redeveloped into a 71-unit affordable rental housing project that also would include units for housing homeless families, Pacific Business News.

The city is moving forward on its $1 million makeover of historic Thomas Square, but not everyone is on board with the changes. Hawaii News Now.

Got cauliflower? Field Day highlights potential Hawaii crop. These trials are a step toward the governor's goal of doubling our food production so Hawaii don’t have to rely so much on imports. KITV.

Hawaii

Hawaii Island residents received no immediate solutions to the problem of helicopter tour noise pollution during a meeting Thursday afternoon, but were assured that their voices were heard as federal officials once again attempt to address the issue. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island residents, especially those living in Puna subdivisions who are fed up with the constant noise from low flying tour helicopters visiting the volcano, had a chance to take their complaints directly to the feds on Thursday. Big Island Video News.

A former school campus at Mauna Lani resort could see new life as a shopping plaza, if the County Council approves rezoning the property from agriculture to mixed commercial/industrial. West Hawaii Today.

TMT International Observatory signed a hosting agreement Thursday that would allow construction of its giant telescope on the Spanish island of La Palma. The site is part of the Canary Islands and is the developer’s backup plan should it not be able to resume construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea by April 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui Memorial Medical Center is on track to transition to Kaiser on July 1, as part of a public/private partnership approved by the state in 2015. Maui Now.

A bill to authorize a special purpose revenue bond for as much as $13 million to help MauiGrown Coffee Inc.’s expansion to the lower slopes of Haleakala has cleared the state Senate Ways and Means Committee. Maui News.

E.K. Fernandez Shows’ cancellation of next week’s Maui County Carnival threw a cloud over the Maui Fair as well. Maui News.

Kauai


Kauai police and the prosecutor's office are debating whether to take action against some people who have been camping out at the abandoned Coco Palms Resort — some for as long as a year. Hawaii News Now.

Owners of the iconic Coco Palms resort on Kauai are working to remove residents who they say have been living on the property illegally. Associated Press.

State officials say a group occupying land on a historic hotel site is trespassing. Garden Island.

A second informational meeting has been set for the public to hear about the state’s plan to eradicate rats on Lehua Island with poison this summer. Garden Island.

#BoycottHawaii trending on Twitter, gay tourism study released, state could be dinged by Trump budget, Honolulu rail spared, voter turnout lowest in nation, police set to test body cams, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii pool party at Kona resort © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii won in court over the travel ban Wednesday but found itself in the midst of a social media firestorm Thursday as #BoycottHawaii went viral on President Donald Trump’s favorite platform, Twitter. Star-Advertiser.

After a federal judge in Hawaii blocked President Trump’s revised travel ban Wednesday, Trump supporters took to Twitter to call for a boycott of all things Hawaii. Civil Beat.

#BoycottHawaii is a hashtag that’s currently trending on Twitter after a federal judge in Hawaii blocked President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban. KHON2.

Derrick Watson: An Apolitical Judge Caught In A Partisan Firestorm. Acquaintances call the federal judge from Honolulu reserved and unemotional. But he’s under attack from the president and his supporters. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is bringing the preferences, sentiments and profiles of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender travelers out of the closet with the Thursday release of the state’s first commissioned studies for this niche market. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's airline industry saw gains in 2016 due to the addition of new routes, though there are huge market opportunities from Asia and Japan, according to independent airline consultancy Ailevon Pacific. Pacific Business News.

New air service to Hawaii in 2017 is expected to bolster Hawaii’s economy by millions of dollars and help the state reach a sixth straight year of record-setting tourism performance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii would stand to lose tens of millions of federal dollars annually that support services for the poor, affordable housing, the environment, local arts and media organizations under President Trump’s 2018 budget outline for discretionary spending released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

President's budget proposal includes significant cuts to Hawaii programs, services. Hawaii News Now.

Trump’s draft budget still includes Honolulu’s rail funds. KITV.

At least 6,000 Hawaii students — including more than 1,000 on the Big Island — could be without after-school care if President Donald Trump’s proposed 2018 fiscal budget were to take effect as is. Tribune-Herald.

The East-West Center is listed among the Trump administration’s programs that would be eliminated under the president’s proposed budget cuts. Pacific Business News.

How Trump’s proposed budget could affect agencies, programs in Hawaii. KHON2.

For the fifth presidential election in a row, Hawaii had the lowest voter turnout rate in the nation, with only 43 percent of eligible voters casting ballots, according to a study. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers: Mail-in voting can improve Hawaii’s low voter turnout. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds of people with developmental disabilities thronged the Capitol on Thursday to celebrate 30 years of progress toward self-determination and to push for adequate funding. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Air Force this week hosted allies and partners in Hawaii for a symposium on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which can sneak undetected behind enemy radar. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu rail board approved nearly $15 million in additional change orders Thursday — the latest tranche of money to help cover changes to construction contracts that project leaders have said the city issued prematurely. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department hopes to have patrol officers in at least one of its districts equipped with body cameras by the end of the year under a pilot project, HPD officials told the City Council Budget Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A Kakaako street will be closed Saturday as the city begins construction of a new protected bike lane. Hawaii News Now.

Nineteen-year-old Christian Gutierrez, one of three people charged with slaughtering Laysan albatrossess at Kaena Point in 2015, agreed to a plea deal Thursday in Circuit Court. Civil Beat.

The Grand Islander, a 38-story Hawaii time-share property by Hilton Grand Vacations, is at 99 percent occupancy just two weeks after opening in Waikiki. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Much of the Akaka Falls State Park trail system remains closed to visitors until further notice. The upper portion of the trail between the Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls overlooks was damaged accidentally in February during the removal of trees. Tribune-Herald.

Rain and snowfall continue to replenish Lake Waiau, keeping the alpine lake that sits some 13,000 feet above sea-level atop Mauna Kea nearly full or full for more than two years. West Hawaii Today.

An endangered Hawaiian monk seal has died after wandering into a net pen and becoming trapped at a fish farm that was partially funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Hawaii. Associated Press.

West Hawaii Today senior reporter Nancy Cook Lauer earned the Big Island Press Club’s Torch of Light award for her work on breaking the story surrounding former-Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of a county-issued pCard. West Hawaii Today.

Press Release: The Big Island Press Club presented its annual Torch of Light Award to reporter Nancy Cook Lauer for shining a light on a credit card scandal involving former Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi, who received the group’s Lava Tube dishonor award for keeping the public in the dark.

Maui

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission’s public hearing on 113.5 percent sewer rate increases for 880 residential, business and government customers in Pukalani will begin at 6 p.m. today in Pukalani Elementary School’s cafeteria. Maui News.

The developer of a proposed project below Wailuku Heights that called for 147 residential lots, 450 multifamily units, a park and commercial area has nixed the project, according to a filing with the state Land Use Commission. Maui News.

Almost 280 people live in the Front Street Apartments, an affordable housing complex in Lahaina on Maui’s western shore. In two and a half years, their rents will convert to market rates if state lawmakers don’t take action to keep the 142 units affordable. Civil Beat.

Waiehu Golf Course Pro Shop co-owner Catherine Cordeiro holds a stack of petitions against Mayor Alan Arakawa’s proposal to shut down the municipal course. Maui News.

State House budget approved; moves to Senate for review. Proposed funding for Maui County airport improvements, ag park, flood damage included. Maui News.

Kauai

Fixing roads, freezing county vacancies, raising property taxes and establishing a special reserve fund are some of Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr.’s goals for the coming fiscal year. Garden Island.

Kauai residents are a step closer to being able to legally access an area in Koloa to get to the shoreline. Garden Island.

Award-winning documentary features pesticide use on Kauai. Garden Island.

Seven aircraft tour companies on Kauai are staffing a help line available for the public to report complaints about low-flying aircraft and noise issues relating to air tour operators. Garden Island.

A new study provided the first rigorous population estimate of an endangered bird species found only on Kauai. Garden Island.

Win for Hawaii attorney general as judge halts Trump travel ban, nobody wants to be Honolulu top cop, Hawaii House passes $28B budget, Amazon to start collecting Hawaii taxes, snorkeling masks studied after drownings, radios go online on Big Island, Kauai mayor touts tax hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Attorney General Doug Chin, left, with staff leaving federal courthouse Wednesday, Facebook photo

Rejecting arguments from the government that President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban was substantially different from the first one, judges in Hawaii and Maryland blocked the executive order from taking effect as scheduled today, using the president’s own words as evidence that the order discriminates against Muslims. Associated Press.

In a case of legal deja vu, President Donald Trump’s new executive order on immigration suffered a major setback Wednesday, when a federal judge in Honolulu issued a temporary restraining order to keep the travel ban from taking effect nationwide. Civil Beat.

President Donald Trump says a federal judge in Hawaii demonstrated “unprecedented judicial overreach” when he ordered a temporary halt to Trump’s revised travel ban earlier today. Star-Advertiser.

PC: Joshua Wisch

For the second time, a federal court on Wednesday blocked President Donald Trump’s efforts to freeze immigration by refugees and citizens of some predominantly Muslim nations, putting the president’s revised travel ban on hold just hours before it was to take effect. Associated Press.

Hours before it was to take effect, President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban was put on hold Wednesday by a federal judge in Hawaii who questioned whether the administration was motivated by national security concerns. Associated Press.

A federal judge Wednesday granted a temporary restraining order filed by the State of Hawaii that puts the revised travel ban signed by President Donald Trump on hold. KHON2.

The judge who halted President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban is the only Native Hawaiian serving on the federal bench. Associated Press.

View the full opinion here.

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The Hawaii House passed the state’s $28 billion two-year budget at a time when state revenue projections are falling. Associated Press.

Using words like “prudent,” “cautious” and “conservative,” the Hawaii House on Wednesday unanimously passed the state’s operating budget, sending it over to the Senate for its review. Civil Beat.

Amazon said Wednesday it will begin collecting general excise tax on items sold in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

A tax credit that's offered to producers to film motion pictures and television shows in Hawaii may come with new requirements, including one to show respect and compliance with Hawaii's cultural beliefs and the environment. Hawaii News Now.

The Republican who chairs the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources has teamed up with a congresswoman from American Samoa to lobby President Donald Trump to open all marine monuments, including those in the Hawaii area, to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

Counties To Track Equipment Used In Snorkeling Deaths. A woman’s drowning spurs officials to consider the possible hidden dangers of full-face snorkeling masks. Civil Beat.

Investing in a college education pays off with substantially higher earnings over a Hawaii graduate’s lifetime, according to a newly released report by economists at the University of Hawaii that underscores the value of a college degree. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

More than two weeks after the forced retirement of Honolulu's top cop, the department has not received any applications to become the city's next police chief — at least not yet. Hawaii News Now.

The city says an estimated $5 million from an approved charter amendment will help the Honolulu Zoo enhance its programs and its budget. Star-Advertiser.

Millennials in Honolulu pay some of the highest taxes in the nation compared to their counterparts in other cities, according to a new report by SmartAsset. Pacific Business News.

US soldiers train for jungle warfare at Hawaii rainforest. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii Manoa has questioned the latest U.S. News & World Report graduate school rankings, saying the Washington, D.C.-based publication did not consider the complete data for its business school ranking. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A long awaited overhaul of the communication systems used by Hawaii County’s public agencies began rolling out this week as the Hawaii Police Department switched its radios to a new bandwidth. Tribune-Herald.

The Intermediate Court of Appeals has sided with former County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong and former County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi in a 2012 defamation lawsuit filed by Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto and one of her staff. West Hawaii Today.

A notice to proceed on the Lako Street extension could be issued later this year. West Hawaii Today.

Monk seal dies in fish pen off Big Island. KITV.

Maui

The proposed $354.5 million mixed-used Makena Resort project narrowly received enough votes from the Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday to allow the project to move forward without needing to prepare a lengthy environmental impact statement. Maui News.

The Hawaii Board of Agriculture on Tuesday expanded the coffee berry borer quarantine to Maui, effective May 1. West Hawaii Today.

Maui’s biggest coffee farm wants to double or triple in size, and would like some state help to get there. Star-Advertiser.

Kmart — the first big-box store to open on Maui over two decades ago — will close June 11 after sales have been cut in half since the opening of Target, a store manager said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

The county administration is seeking a $14 million increase and proposing tax hikes for the next fiscal year’s operating budget. Garden Island.

The mayor is seeking over $200 million for the operating budget and just under $15 million for capitol improvements. Garden Island.

The Department of Health says high levels of a harmful bacteria called Clostridium Perfringens -- an indicator of human and animal wastes -- were found during recent water testing in Waikomo Stream on Kauai's South Shore. Hawaii News Now.

Honeybee pollen study yields positive results. Some chemicals found in pollen raises concerns. Garden Island.

Pesticides play politics in state House, advocates want Hawaii to be sanctuary state, DLNR seeks criminal probe at Kona boat harbors, bill could require Honolulu building inspections, Maui mayor's plan to sell golf course irks golfers, Kauai monk seal killing reward upped to $50k, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pesticide spray in Hilo, special to All Hawaii News

Lawmaker May Lose Committee Chair Over Pesticide Bill. Hawaii Rep. Angus McKelvey’s effort to push through a contentious pesticide disclosure bill could lead to his ouster as head of Consumer Protection and Commerce. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture has started posting data on what kinds of restricted-use pesticides large agricultural companies apply each month and in what amounts. Civil Beat.

A proposed bill to increase the counties’ allocation of money generated from the transient accommodations tax passed in the Hawaii Senate. Garden Island.

A bill to replace the term “medical marijuana” with “medical cannabis” in state law is moving through the Legislature, though most other marijuana-related measures have died. Tribune-Herald.

Senate Bill 518 and companion House Bill 680 would mandate all those with barber, beauty operator and instructor licenses under the state Board of Barbering and Cosmetology complete a one-time, three-hour training program on domestic violence awareness and education. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Board of Education has suspended its search for the next state schools superintendent after a foundation pulled back from a large donation to support the effort. Civil Beat.

The search for the next schools superintendent is delayed over concerns about fairness. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate has fallen to its lowest level in nearly 10 years. Star-Advertiser.

While hotel occupancy rose only slightly in January, the industry saw record revenue of $561 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii tourism had another record year of arrivals in 2016, but statewide sales of homes typically bought by visitors barely budged, a new report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates for immigrants are ramping up efforts to make Hawaii a sanctuary state. Hawaii News Now.

State Attorney General Doug Chin, who filed the nation’s first state lawsuit Wednesday to block President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban, said the executive order still discriminates against residents of Muslim-majority countries in spite of the watered-down language. Star-Advertiser.

A new technical report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration suggests that climate change-induced sea level rise over the course of this century, especially in Hawaii, may be far worse than predicted in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change scenario that has been serving as a guide for a number of local efforts to address climate change impacts. Civil Beat.

Growth in out-of-state investment in Hawaii real estate is prompting the state to take a closer look at property tax rates. Tribune-Herald.

A bill seeking to ban foam containers was shelved this session, despite sizable public support. Star-Advertiser.

Catherine Ngo, president and chief executive officer of Central Pacific Bank, earned $1,051,039 last year, $45,071 less than she did in 2015, despite an increase in salary, according to the bank’s annual proxy statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines unveiled an Airbus A321neo full-flight simulator to train pilots ahead of the airline’s full incorporation of the fleet starting next year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Two bills that would require most Oahu commercial buildings, condominiums and apartments to be inspected every five years moved out of a City Council committee Thursday, despite concerns raised by both a condo association group and the Department of Planning and Permitting. Star-Advertiser.

Building 800 affordable homes annually on Oahu is a goal Mayor Kirk Caldwell laid down last month. It is ambitious. And he said he has an aggressive strategy to get it done. But a close look at his plan suggests it will be tough to realize. Star-Advertiser.

The first phase of a 320-unit affordable rental apartment complex in east Kapolei could break ground at the end of this year or early next year, Michaels Development Co. officials say. Star-Advertiser.

As the University of Hawaii works to modernize buildings on the aging Manoa campus, officials want to move away from static learning and research spaces toward facilities that foster collaboration across fields. Star-Advertiser.

When Salem Partners first inquired about building a condominium-hotel tower across from the Hawaii Convention Center in Honolulu, little did the Los Angeles-based investment bank and wealth management firm know that several other towers would be joining its project along Kapiolani Boulevard. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaiian Humane Society this spring plans to start building Hawaii’s first high-volume spay-and-neuter clinic focused on “free-roaming” cats to reduce their numbers on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Department of Land and Natural Resources has joined Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth in asking the state attorney general to investigate the ethics issues and allegations that continue to roil the waters at West Hawaii small boat harbors. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has taken the first step toward starting a contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope’s sublease on Mauna Kea by seeking applicants for a hearing officer. But it remains unclear when or if the quasi-judicial hearing — the third so far — will be held. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will soon begin work to determine the extent of munitions and explosives of concern remaining from military training and on more than 1,900 acres on Kohala Mountain’s flanks. West Hawaii Today.

Council Chairwoman Valerie Poindexter has called a meeting over runoff dispute between dairy, neighbors. West Hawaii Today.

Demolition by neglect: Fate of Naalehu Theater remains in limbo, even as it deteriorates. Tribune-Herald.

Work on the Hilo Bayfront Trails continues despite an unexpected setback in the grant cycle that caused organizers to shift priorities. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa’s proposed shutdown of the 87-year-old Waiehu Municipal Golf Course drew the ire of Maui golfers, who praised the course for its beauty and affordability. Maui News.

Golfers are criticizing a plan by Maui County’s mayor to shut down an 87-year-old municipal golf course. Associated Press.

A 285-acre business park is being proposed by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources on former sugar lands in Pulehunui. Maui News.

Maui County could see a small increase in its share of the hotel room tax and money for an agricultural park in South Maui, and there may be hope for 250 low-income residents who are looking at being priced out of their Lahaina apartments as the Legislature cleared a key deadline Thursday. Maui News.

Maui hotel room rates jumped 10 percent last week with other Islands experiencing similar gains compared to last year, according to the Hospitality Advisors LLC and STR weekly hotel report. Pacific Business News.

Undocumented immigrants on Maui are unsure of future. Given the changing policies, some worry they’ll get caught up in deportation fervor. Maui News.

Hawaii Gas is planning to build a new storage facility for propane tanks near Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary in Kahului, company officials said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Planning Commission to discuss General Plan Update. General Plan Update goes to Planning Commission Tuesday. Garden Island.

The state plans to once again take on the rats that have colonized Lehua Island. Details will be presented Tuesday at the Waimea Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

The state wants to eradicate rats on a small island off Niihau to create a refuge for threatened and endangered seabirds as rising sea levels threaten low-lying atolls. Star-Advertiser.

A total of $50,000 is being offered for information about the killings of five Hawaiian monk seals, including the February death of a 15-year old female known as R4DP on Kauai. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Department of Health will reconvene public hearings statewide to introduce amendments to Chapter 50 of the state’s Food Safety Code. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Airlines starts direct service from Lihue to Kona. Garden Island.

Reef fish population ebbs; Legislature to vote on pesticide buffer, university smoking/vaping ban, Oahu homeless, concussion education, more bills; DLNR officer convicted of rape fired; Honolulu looks at distracted pedestrians; Maui's Iao Valley slowly recovering; Kauai monk seal apparently killed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian net fisherman © 2017 All Hawaii News

A report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says nearly a dozen Hawaiian reef fish species are being overfished. KHON2.

U.S. officials say the first-ever assessment of Hawaii’s reef fish shows that 11 of 27 species are experiencing some level of overfishing. Associated Press.

NOAA: 11 species overfished in Hawaii. Garden Island.

Link to full NOAA report here.

Pesticide bill will be put to a vote. Bill would require farms to implement buffer zones around schools, watersheds, shorelines and hospitals when spraying pesticides. Garden Island.

Hawaii School Board Member Wants Top State Education Job. Darrel Galera is seen as a favorite for the superintendent position because of his relationship with Gov. David Ige. Civil Beat.

Former public school principal Darrel Galera resigned from the state Board of Education on Monday and said he will apply for the superintendent job the board is seeking to fill. Star-Advertiser.

A 1978 amendment to the state constitution mandated that Hawaii’s public schools teach Hawaiian education. Thirty-nine years later, the state’s Department of Education still struggles to offer Hawaiian education programs to the vast majority of public school students. Civil Beat.

A bill to ban vaping and smoking on all University of Hawaii campuses statewide crossed over from the state Senate to the House. Tribune-Herald.

There's a growing call underway to scrap safety checks for Hawaii cars. Hawaii News Now.

Legislature helps fund concussion education. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian activist Mililani Trask is suing Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee Peter Apo, accusing him of violating his responsibilities stemming from alleged incidents of sexual harassment.Civil Beat.

Video blog: Interview With Former Hawaii Governor John D. Waihee III. Civil Beat.

Two rallies last week demonstrated the great divide here over the Presidency of the United States. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

A bill before the Honolulu City Council would prohibit pedestrians from using mobile electronic devices, including cellphones, while crossing a street or highway. Star-Advertiser.

The City's "Department of Planning and Permitting", is presenting the "Oahu General Plan" Tuesday night, addressing the impacts of sea level rise, and climate change. KITV.

A Waikiki group is proposing sweeping changes to parking in the state’s No. 1 tourist district, including raising the hourly rate for metered parking to $3 from $1.50, extending the metered parking hours to 10 p.m. instead of 6 p.m., converting about 300 free parking spaces to metered and issuing reduced-rate permits to Waikiki residents. Star-Advertiser.

State ends lease with Moiliili tow company, eyes rentals for Native Hawaiians.KHON2.

On Friday, the House passed 137 bills, including two measures relating to supporting Oahu’s homeless population. Pacific Business News.

The median sales price for a single-family house on Oahu climbed in February to the second-highest level ever at $755,000, according to data released Monday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu company that makes Hula Brand noodles, shrimp flakes and other dry edibles has violated food safety standards with unsanitary equipment and insect droppings at its plant, the Food and Drug Administration says. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Two close associates of Mayor Harry Kim have joined the administration as contract hires after turning down full-time jobs. West Hawaii Today.

Mokulele Air and Makani Kai Air are two contenders for a new Essential Air Service contract that will cover all commercial flights in and out of Waimea-Kohala Airport beginning later this year. West Hawaii Today.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources announced in a tersely worded written statement Monday it has terminated the employment of Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement Officer Ethan Ferguson. Tribune-Herald.

Big on ideas, but short on funding, the staff at a small Hilo-based aerospace agency are hoping a bill moving through the state Legislature will make the difference. Tribune-Herald.

The contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope project at Mauna Kea on Hawaii's Big Island concluded on Thursday after 44 days of witness testimony, but a decision on whether TMT officials can proceed with the $1.4 billion project could still be months away. Pacific Business News.

Home prices on Hawaii’s Big Island rose by double digits last month, even as the number of single-family homes sold fell, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Flood-ravaged Iao Valley is slowly coming back to life six months after powerful stormwater forced evacuations, swept cars and massive boulders downstream and shut down the two parks that help make this spectacular canyon one of Maui’s most popular visitor destinations. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources allowed media access into Iao Valley park March 6 to provide an update on the current restoration process.  Maui Now.

Hazardous conditions following a major flood in September haven’t deterred tourists from trying to visit Kepaniwai Park and Iao Valley State Monument. Maui News.

Kauai

State authorities are investigating what they’ve described as the suspicious death of a 15-year-old endangered monk seal on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

A 15-year-old endangered Hawaiian monk seal known to many Kauai locals was found dead on a beach near Eleele on Feb. 23. Civil Beat.

An oft-spotted, 15-year-old endangered Hawaiian monk seal, known as R4DP, was found dead on a beach near Eleele on Feb. 23. Garden Island.

The Honolulu-based company in the process of redeveloping the iconic Coco Palms Resort on the island of Kauai is also building an affordable housing project as a component of the Coco Palms project, a company executive confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Kauai’s real estate market sizzled last month as the median price for single-family houses soared above $700,000 and the median cost for condos rose nearly 50 percent. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Foodbank has promoted a new branch manager to take care of its Kauai location. Garden Island.

Endangered monk seal population recovering, Zuckerberg reconsiders neighbor stance, OHA airs gripes at public meeting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monk seal at Five Fathom Pinnacle, Hawaii, courtesy Kent Backman

Scientists and government officials delivered some rare good news Tuesday about one of the world’s most endangered animals, the Hawaiian monk seal. Civil Beat.

The population of Hawaiian monk seals — one of the world’s most critically endangered marine mammals — has been increasing 3 percent a year for the past three years, federal wildlife officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents who have been waiting 16 years for a legal place to buy medical marijuana will have to wait at least several more months. But as of next week, their medicine can start growing. Civil Beat.

The chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on Tuesday addressed dozens of allegations of human resource violations filed against her by OHA employees. Civil Beat.

The Department of Education is installing cameras on buses to keep track of students even when they’re out of the classroom. KHON2.

Lawmaker wants DOE to standardize concussion evaluation. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Board of Water Supply crews this morning have repaired the 24-inch water main that broke on Kalanianaole Highway early Saturday. Officials expect all eastbound lanes to be open by noon Wednesday, the agency said. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu's acting police chief is opposed to using $250,000 in police department funds for a severance payment to outgoing Police Chief Louis Kealoha, according to a letter obtained by Hawaii News Now.

Retiring Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s $250,000 severance payment isn’t sitting well with his acting successor. Civil Beat.

House Bill 148, introduced by Rep. Gregg Takayama, D, Pearl City, Waimalu, Pacific Palisades, would allow single-occupant vehicles to use the Zipper Lane for a $1 fee. KHON2.

A state lawmaker plans to introduce a bill on Wednesday to take the next step in redeveloping the Aloha Stadium area. Hawaii News Now.

IHOP is expanding a new restaurant concept called "IHOP Fresh & Go" in Hawaii, which will become the first of its kind in the United States, the franchiseee for IHOP in the state confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council moved no closer to passing new limits on buying alcohol with public funds after a second round of discussion Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

George Yokoyama, community organizer, grant writer and fundraiser, political kingmaker — and Living Treasure of Hawaii — died Sunday at Hospice of Hilo Pohai Malama Care Center following a brief illness. He was 90. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Oceanic Technology Inc., a Honolulu-based open ocean fish farming technology company, has shut down after nearly a decade in business, Pacific Business News has learned.

Maui

In his State of the State address Monday, Gov. David Ige touted the state’s efforts to combat homelessness, saying that more beds for homeless people are being created through a new contract process — a statement contradicted by Maui shelter officials last week. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park visitors are being reminded that the National Park Service’s new reservation system for sunrise viewing will begin Feb. 1. Maui News.

Kamehameha Schools buys Wailuku building. Maui News.

Kamehameha Schools has acquired the former office building of the Wailuku Federal Credit Union on Maui that will be turned into the Maui regional office and community resource center for the state’s largest private landowner, the $11 billion educational-focused trust said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Mark Zuckerberg announced today through a spokesman that he is “reconsidering” his quiet title lawsuits filed recently against hundreds of owners or potential owners of land on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says he is reconsidering his actions involving quiet title cases on Kauai after filing several lawsuits against kuleana land owners. Maui Now.

Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg says he wants to be a good neighbor, but Naoshi Grady didn’t feel any aloha when he says he was harassed and intimidated while using a coastal trail that passes through the billionaire’s 700-acre property on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Obama to visit expanded Papahanaumokuakea marine monument, malnourished monk seals sent to hospital, dog rescued from crack in Kilauea volcano, Honolulu denies fault in mudslide, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Papahanaumokuakea and the Hawaiian Islands

The White House says that President Barack Obama will expand a national monument off the coast of Hawaii, creating the world’s largest marine protected area. Obama’s proclamation will quadruple in size a monument originally created by President George W. Bush in 2006. The Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument will contain some 582,578 square miles, more than twice the size of Texas. Obama will travel to the monument next week to mark the designation and cite the need to protect public lands and waters from climate change. Associated Press.

In what's being called a historic step toward protecting global ocean resources, President Barack Obama has approved a significant expansion of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands marine national monument and will discuss the designation in Honolulu next week at a global conservation conference. Hawaii News Now.

President Barack Obama will expand the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument by hundreds of thousands of square miles, creating the world’s largest marine reserve and permanently protecting coral reefs and deep-sea marine habitats from activities such as commercial fishing and mineral mining, the White House announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

NOAA

President Barack Obama will create the world’s largest protected marine area Friday by expanding Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument around the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, White House officials said Thursday. Civil Beat.

On Friday, President Obama will expand the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument off the coast of Hawaii, creating the world’s largest marine protected area. Maui Now.

President Barack Obama has announced plans to expand the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, more than quadrupling its current size. That will make it the largest marine protected area in the world. Hawaii Public Radio.

The president of the United States will be in Hawaii within the next few days. He is scheduled to arrive here ahead of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress, which starts next week Thursday at the Hawaii Convention Center and Neal S. Blaisdell Center. KHON2.


After Friday, it will be the worlds largest marine protected area.  President Obama will expand the area around Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. KITV4.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige said he supports expanding a marine monument in the remote Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Ige's office said Thursday he sent a letter to President Barack Obama declaring his support for enlarging the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. Associated Press.

© National Marine Fisheries Service

Four malnourished Hawaiian monk seals are recovering at a Big Island hospital for the mammals after being moved from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Four malnourished Hawaiian monk seals were brought to Ke Kai Ola, the Marine Mammal Center’s monk seal hospital in Kona, after being transported from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Big Island Video News.

© National Marine Fisheries Service

First Circuit Judge Edwin Nacino heard arguments Thursday in a case that boils down to the meaning of two words: “vacancy” and “qualified.” Former Hawaii Public Utilities Commission Chair Mina Morita is challenging Gov. David Ige’s interim appointment of Tom Gorak to the state utilities commission. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige’s administration is offering some quick cash to up-and-coming software code writers who think they can develop solutions for some of the state’s vexing computer challenges. Star-Advertiser.

True World Foods announced Thursday that it has been cleared of allegations it distributed tainted scallops to sushi restaurants in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Ten people have filed their candidacies to run in a Nov. 8 special election to fill out the remainder to fill out the remainder of the late U.S. Rep. Mark Takai’s term representing the 1st Congressional District through Jan. 3. Civil Beat.

John White, who leads Pacific Resource Partnership, which represents the largest construction union in Hawaii, is leaving his post after about six years on the job, Pacific Business News has learned.

Oahu

Plans for a 36-story hotel-condominium tower across from the Hawai‘i Convention Center won a key approval from the City Council Planning and Zoning Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

We’re learning more about who’s getting paid to do what for Honolulu’s multibillion-dollar rail project. For the first time in the project’s history, there’s a public list of subcontractors hired, what they’re being paid, and what they’re doing. KHON2.

City denies fault in Nuuanu landslide. Star-Advertiser.

Over the past three years, the hillside above Eugene Garrett's home has slowly given away, sending thousands of tons of dirt, boulders and trees toward his backyard. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu city councilman Ikaika Anderson has been trying to limit commercial activity at Waimanalo beaches. KITV4.

Hawaii

Dozens of East Hawaii teachers, principals, complex area administrators and community members gathered Wednesday to discuss ways to improve Hawaii’s education system. The town hall meeting was among several scheduled around the state this summer to compile input on the Every Student Succeeds Act. The new federal education law is replacing No Child Left Behind. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park rangers on Wednesday rescued a dog that had fallen 30 feet into a ground crack. The Hawaii Island Humane Society took the female dog, which was “very famished and very scared” but otherwise not injured, to the Keaau shelter, said Jessica Ferracane, park spokeswoman. Tribune-Herald.

Heading north from Keauhou Bay on Thursday morning, Capt. Erika Swenson briefed the passengers on the rules of the Dolphin Discoveries cruise. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Changing fisher behaviors over the last three years has allowed officers with the North Maui Community Fisheries Enforcement Unit to spend less time writing citations and more time on education and outreach. Maui Now.

Visitors to 'Ahihi-Kina'u Natural Area Reserve and the Keone'oi'o (La Perouse Bay) area can expect limited parking and traffic delays from Monday through Sept. 30 during a parking lot renovation, according to an announcement from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui News.

Future phases of the Lahaina and Paia bypass roads and other long-awaited Maui highway projects are being deferred while the state concentrates more on maintaining existing roads. Maui News.

The major walkway along the coastline of Wai‘ānapanapa State Park in East Maui will be replaced beginning on Sept. 6, 2016. Maui Now.

Sugar operations at HC&S on Maui are winding down. Back in January, the state’s last sugar plantation announced plans to close down by the end of the year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Water was restored to Kalaheo residents on Thursday. Garden Island.