Hawaii sues TikTok parent company, Hawaii County Council passes plastic foodware ban, Honolulu teen's family to get $1M in police shooting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

‘The mental health and well-being of our keiki must come first’: State announces TikTok lawsuit. The state of Hawaiʻi is suing the parent company of TikTok, Bytedance Inc., for the alleged addictive platform design that causes harm to its users, especially children, whom they have exploited for economic gain. KHON2. KITV4. Hawaii News Now.  Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Lamosao named to replace Sen. Aquino. State Rep. Rachele Lamosao (D-Waipahu) has been selected by Gov. Josh Green to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Sen. Henry Aquino (D, Pearl City- Waipahu-West Loch). Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Rail Pays $41 Million In Dispute Over Ala Moana Extension. The settlement gives the city the easements it needs to build through Kakaʻako, but HART does not yet have the money to construct that segment. Civil Beat.

City council passes bill to allow media police scanner access. The Honolulu City Council passed Bill 46 Wednesday, which would require the Honolulu Police Department to release certain public information to the public and the media. The measure was introduced by council chair Tommy Waters and council member Augie Tulba in an effort to force the department to allow news organizations to access police scanner communication. Hawaii News Now.

HPD says fraud losses total $7 million in 2025. Law enforcement officials, kupuna advocates and state lawmakers urged caution and vigilance Wednesday after Honolulu police reported Oahu residents lost more than $7 million in 222 fraud cases this year. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Shooting: Teen’s Family To Get $1 Million Despite Pushback. Honolulu City Council members approved the settlement to protect the officers involved in the 2021 fatal shooting of Iremamber Sykap from future liability. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Oʻahu officials reconsider controversial North Shore gondola proposal. A controversial gondola project on Oʻahu could be halted as it is at risk of losing its conditional use permit. Hawaii Public Radio.

HPD staffing task force recommends increased incentives. A Honolulu City Council task force empaneled to help the Honolulu Police Department recruit and retain officers is recommending housing stipends, retention bonuses and other incentives. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council passes plastic foodware bill despite mayor’s concerns. Mayor Kimo Alameda issued a forceful plea Wednesday urging the Hawaii County Council to reject Bill 83, warning that new restrictions on disposable plastic and polystyrene foodware would drive up costs for families and strain county resources. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Health Systems Corp., Queen’s partnership to expand care in Kona. Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday announced plans by a new public-­private partnership to build a new outpatient medical facility, with $50 million in state bonds, next door to the new hospital planned by Queen’s in Kailua-Kona. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Prosecutors seek to detain Sulla, allege wrongdoing on release. Federal prosecutors have filed a motion to revoke bond for a Hilo attorney convicted in U.S. District Court and awaiting sentencing for an affordable housing credits scam.The motion filed by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mohammad Khatib and Margaret Nammar seeks to detain Paul J. Sulla Jr. pending sentencing. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Island residents can keep riding Hele-On buses for free. Hawaiʻi County's Hele-On bus system will stay free for another three years. Officials voted to extend the late pandemic era program that was set to expire this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui visitor spending increases in October despite fewer visitors. Ten months into 2025, Maui is still outpacing last year’s visitor totals — even though October delivered the island’s first year-over-year dip since midsummer. Maui Now.

Measles virus detected in Maui County’s wastewater surveillance. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health is monitoring the first-ever detection of the measles virus in Maui County’s wastewater. Maui Now.

Kauai

A Month After Kauaʻi ICE Raid, Questions Linger. None of the 44 workers detained that day ended up seeking asylum. Their employer, a local janitorial contractor, has faced federal scrutiny before. Civil Beat.

Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency seeks public input on disaster mitigation plan. The Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency is inviting residents to help update the county’s Multi-Hazard Mitigation and Resilience Plan, a five-year strategy aimed at reducing risks from natural disasters and strengthening community preparedness. Kauai Now.

DOJ moves to block green fee on cruise ships, Health Department amends medical cannabis rules, Hawaii County Council advances plastic foodware ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Fee showdown: DOJ moves to block Hawaii’s climate surcharge. There’s a new twist in the fight over Hawaii’s new Green Fee. The U.S. Department of Justice is jumping into the lawsuit against the state, and it could become a national test case about who gets to regulate ships. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers call for colleague to step forward in bribery investigation. State Reps. Della Au Belatti, a Democrat, and Kanani Souza, a Republican, are publicly calling for a colleague linked to a federal bribery investigation to step forward and explain their role in the case. The unnamed legislator is connected to the pay-to-play scandal that sent two former lawmakers, Kalani English and Ty Cullen, to prison in 2022. Hawaii News Now.

Medical Cannabis Dispensary Rules Amended By Health Department. State officials are proposing several changes to the rules regarding medical cannabis dispensaries in Hawaiʻi. Big Island Video News.

Evaluation committee for Act 310 nonprofit grants to announce application decisions. The state’s Act 310 Nonprofit Grants Program evaluation committee will host an information briefing Thursday (Nov. 20) to announce decisions on grant applications for fiscal year 2026. Big Island Now.

Hawai‘i DOE Wants $83,000 To Provide Data On Gender Equity In Schools. The Hawaiʻi Department of Education has recently stepped up its oversight of high school sports, but parents say they want more information on how female athletes are treated. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City Council advances bill to incentivize income-based rental housing program. The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee advanced a bill Tuesday to try to make an unused affordable housing program more attractive to landlords. Hawaii Public Radio.

City council weighs new measures to curb soaring traffic deaths. With traffic deaths nearly doubling compared to last year, Honolulu City Council members said Wednesday they are considering every possible tool, from enforcement to new technology, to get drivers to slow down and pay attention. Hawaii News Now.

Contractor: City Offered $8M To Settle $320M Claim For Honolulu Rail Delays. Hitachi Rail Honolulu JV, which is still on the job, refiles a suit alleging HART exhibited an ‘inability to learn’ from its mistakes.  Civil Beat.

Fatal Police Shooting: Teen’s Family Could Get $1 Million Settlement. The Honolulu City Council is slated to vote on whether to approve the settlement in the 2021 death of 16-year-old Iremamber Sykap at its next meeting. Civil Beat. KITV4. 

Kahala residents push for removal of homeless camps along stream. City officials recently replaced a gate to the access point for the Waialae Nui Stream near Malia Street after the one before it was torn out, allowing homeless people to crawl in. Hawaii News Now.

4 years after fuel leak, Board of Water Supply continues Red Hill remediation. Four years ago today, a massive jet fuel leak forever changed the Navy’s operations at its once-top-secret, underground Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in Halawa Valley. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers want service members to be able to seek damages for Red Hill. Two Pacific lawmakers are pushing the federal government to allow service members to seek compensation for toxic exposures connected to the Red Hill water crisis. Star-Advertiser.

How City Council could improve food security for Oʻahu residents. The Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice has recommended that the Honolulu City Council work on four areas to improve food security on Oʻahu: disaster planning, summer feeding programs for children, kūpuna programs, and direct funding for food banks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Renowned Chef Chai leaves U.S. with return in doubt. Chai Chaowasaree, 63, will need permission from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to return to Hawaii after leaving to care for his ailing mother in Thailand. Star-Advertiser.

‘The future of Hawaiʻi’s film and television industry’: Local studio group unveils plans for new private studio near UH West Oʻahu. The master plan released on Nov. 19 included renderings and stage layouts for the proposed studio, as the group is currently in final negotiations with UH for a long-term ground lease and development agreement. KHON2.

Mayor urges Oahu residents to take community survey. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is urging Oahu residents to participate in the City and County of Hono­lulu’s 2025 Community Survey, an annual assessment that measures residents’ satisfaction and tracks priorities ranging from public safety and city services to housing, transportation and overall quality of life. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Disposable foodware bill passes first reading. The Hawaii County Council on Wednesday advanced a second draft of Bill 83 on first reading with an 8-1 vote, moving forward a proposal that would significantly expand the county’s restrictions on disposable plastic and polystyrene foodware. Tribune-Herald.

Funds eyed for Puapuaʻa Iki restoration in Kona. The Hawaii County Council is set to consider a proposed $1.9 million budget amendment today that would fund the restoration of more than 11 acres of deforested land and cultural sites in Puapua‘a Iki in North Kona. Tribune-Herald.

Tsunami evacuation exercise Friday in Keaukaha. According to a county press release, the exercise starts at 9 a.m. with students from participating schools following prepared evacuation plans as far as the airport gates at Andrews, Baker and Pua avenues. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. 

Maui

Hawaiʻi’s New Remote Weather Stations Boost Wildfire Risk Assessment. The state has installed 16 new weather stations across Maui County since the deadly fires in August 2023 and plans to install more soon on other islands. Civil Beat.

Community survey asks about brownfield sites. Maui United Way, in partnership with Hā Sustainability, is inviting residents to participate in a short survey to help prioritize sites for environmental assessment and cleanup through the Maui United Way Environmental Recovery Initiative. Maui News.

Maui Council explores ways to reduce alarming rate of ocean drownings. Maui County faces a disproportionately high rate of ocean drowning fatalities, driven largely by the high number of visitors lured by the ocean’s beauty but unprepared for its hidden dangers. Maui Now.

‘Small in stature, huge in presence’: Maui bids aloha to Council Member Tasha Kama. Tears, laughter and the soaring voices of 31 grandchildren filled the Castle Theater on Wednesday morning to celebrate a life of love, service and faith as Maui bid farewell to Maui County Council Member Natalie “Tasha” Kama. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank awarded $25,000 grant from Nareit Hawai‘i. Nareit Hawai‘i announced earlier this week that it is awarding a total of $120,000 in grants to five community nonprofits throughout the state. Kauai Now.

Enter to win a toilet from Kauai’s Department of Water. The department will hold a grand prize drawing for three toilets recognized by WaterSense, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program that identifies water-efficient products that perform as well as or better than conventional models. Hawaii News Now.

Legislative task force works on permit reform, Benioff's increased Hawaii presence, HART approves $53M design to bring Skyline to Ala Moana, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Task force aims at permitting reform. Three House-led committees comprising state and county governments, private developers and environmental interests, among others, face tight December deadlines to make recommendations before the start of the legislative session in January on complex issues to spur economic development across the state regarding permitting, cesspool conversions and historic preservation regulations. Star-Advertiser.

Perfect Attendance To AWOL: Missed Votes At The Hawaiʻi Legislature.  Check out how lawmakers rank according to the number of votes they missed during the 2025 session. Civil Beat.

San Francisco reporter talks Marc Benioff's 'massive philanthropic presence' in Hawaiʻi. Since the pandemic, the Salesforce CEO has purchased land and increased his philanthropy in the islands. He also switched his voting records from California to Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Electric Proposes Backup Power Program For Certain Customers In Wildfire Risk Areas. As Hawaiʻi faces another Fire Weather Watch, which could trigger Hawaiian Electric’s Public Safety Power Shutoff in certain wildfire risk areas, a new program is being proposed by the utility to help certain customers with the purchase of backup power equipment.  Big Island Video News.

Hawaiʻi Relies On Oil More Than Any Other State. Hawaiʻi’s mandate to transition to 100% renewable resources to generate electricity by 2045 spawned headlines when lawmakers passed the measure in 2015, making the Aloha State the first in the nation to commit to such a lofty goal. But a decade later, Hawaiʻi lags far behind leading states in using renewables. Civil Beat.

Hawaii jobless claims hint at shutdown fallout. The first batch of 381 state unemployment insurance claims filed by idled or unpaid workers offers a glimpse of the effects of the federal government shutdown on Hawaii families as food banks are already feeling the pressure. Star-Advertiser.

Going Hungry In Hawaiʻi? Government Shutdown To Halt Food Stamps. The state is creating a relief fund to cover costs for some — and will consider tapping into a $200 million contingency fund. Civil Beat.

Where To Get Help With Food In Hawaiʻi During The Shutdown. While the state government formalizes its plans to help SNAP recipients, local assistance organizations are stepping up, too. Civil Beat.

Home-care providers launch Hawaii-chapter. The national trade group Home Care Association of America, — which represents nearly 4,500 private-duty home-care agencies nationwide — announced the chapter this month. Star-Advertiser.

Viral Bullying Videos Are Sign Of Bigger Problem In Hawaiʻi Schools. Social media is amplifying conflicts and normalizing bad behavior as teens film fights and post them online to draw hundreds of views and comments.  Civil Beat.

Above Normal Rainfall Expected For Hawaiʻi Wet Season. Climate model consensus supports enhanced probabilities for above normal rainfall through early spring 2026, which is consistent with a cold-season La Niña event. Big Island Video News.

Alaska Air profits sag as integration with Hawaiian Airlines progresses. Hawaiian Airlines sapped some of the profit of parent company Alaska Air Group in the third quarter, but performed relatively well as integration between Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines progressed. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HART Approves $53 Million In Design Work To Continue Rail To Ala Moana. Extending rail from Kakaʻako to Ala Moana would cost another $1.6 billion, money the rail authority does not have. Civil Beat.

Development in Ala Moana-Kapiolani corridor stalls. What had been one of urban Honolulu’s hottest spots for condominium tower construction in recent years, an Ala Moana transit-oriented development zone, has become pretty cold. Star-Advertiser.

Talks slow for North Shore first-responder hub, city says. Real estate negotiations between the City &County of Honolulu and the owner of a commercial center eyed for a future first-responder hub on the North Shore will require more time to complete, city officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu in search of someone to lead climate change and resiliency efforts. The chief resilience officer tracks, manages, and develops plans regarding the impacts of climate change on city infrastructure, and monitors areas across Oʻahu that could potentially be at risk. Hawaii Public Radio.

North Shore community pushes back on expansive gondola plan. A Canadian adventure-­tourism investor’s bid to build gondolas, a zip line and expanded visitor infrastructure above Waialua has sparked one of the most energized community opposition campaigns the North Shore has seen in years. Star-Advertiser.

Ex-Hawaii CEO sentenced for illegal donations. Martin Kao, 51, the former CEO and 99% owner of Martin Defense Group LLC, formerly known as Navatek LLC, is already serving 87 months for COVID-19 relief fraud and the sentence he received Monday will run concurrently. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi Island lawmakers advance bill to strengthen plastic foodware ban. Bill 83 would ban food providers and permittees at County of Hawaiʻi facilities from using disposable polystyrene or plastic containers and utensils, and require them to use products “certified” compostable or reusable material. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald.

As Hawaii County looks for new police chief, expert points to role’s unique challenges. After nearly two months without a permanent police chief, Hawaii County is now looking for its new top cop. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island police officer struck by vehicle while helping stalled motorist. A Hawaii Island police officer is in serious, but guarded condition after being hit while helping a stranded driver. The crash was reported Sunday morning at the intersection of Kekuanaoa Street and Kanoelehua Avenue near the Hilo International Airport. Hawaii News Now. Big Island Now.

Maui

State commission alleges Maui Land &Pineapple Co. water violations. A major Maui landowner entrenched in litigation with private customers over the supply of water made improvements to stream diversion infrastructure after a state commission alleged violations of a nearly 6-year-old order. Star-Advertiser.

Historic drought strains Upcountry Maui water systems. Upcountry Maui is facing a historic drought, prompting the County Department of Water Supply to declare a Stage 3 water shortage for the first time. Prior to this, Upcountry had been under Stage 1 water restrictions since April 17 and Stage 2 restrictions since Sept. 11. Star-Advertiser.

Paia Inn files for bankruptcy following harassment lawsuit. The Paia Inn filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Friday, with the business owing millions of dollars after being hit with a lawsuit from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission earlier this year alleging widespread sexual harassment against female employees. Maui News.

Group that saved Honolua Bay from development now wants it to become a cultural sanctuary with fewer tourists. With its coral reefs and big winter swells, Honolua Bay is one of the biggest draws in West Maui, bringing in anywhere from 500 people on a slow day to 1,000 on a busy day, according to Heidi Beltz, coordinator of the coalition’s Makai Watch program. Maui Now.

Kauai

County of Kauaʻi updates residents on status of refuse. The Kaua‘i County Department of Public Works has issued an update on the operational status of its refuse transfer stations and the Kekaha Landfill.  Kauai Now.

Hawaii airports good to go so far despite shutdown, growing OB-GYN shortage backlogs appointments, Skyline rail could reach airport this month, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii airports unaffected so far, but safety and morale concerns grow amid shutdown. As the federal government shutdown stretches on, travelers in Hawaii are wondering when the impacts will reach our airports. So far, the state Department of Transportation says operations remain stable. But there’s growing concern about how long that can last.  KHON2.

Chief justice vacancy short on qualified applicants. Filling the position of chief justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court may take some time despite the Hawaii State Judiciary initially announcing the anticipated vacancy nearly a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

State executive branch departments urged to expand use of Operation Hire Hawai‘i. Hawai’i Gov. Josh Green and Hawai‘i Department of Human Resources Development urge executive branch departments to expand use of Operation Hire Hawai‘i to help fill critical state government vacancies. Especially now as the federal government shutdown continues. Big Island Now.

Hawaii faces growing OB-GYN shortage, leaving many women waiting months for care. Across Hawaii, women say finding an OB-GYN is becoming increasingly difficult, with some waiting months for appointments or being told care is only available if they’re pregnant. KITV4.

New HIEMA machines bring water straight from the air. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency recently acquired two new trailers, which are each equipped with machines that can generate over 200 gallons of water straight from the humidity in the air. KHON2.

Mokulele Airlines gets reprieve as funding continues through November. Hawaii’s rural communities received welcome news Thursday as federal subsidies for essential air service were extended through Nov. 2, providing a temporary reprieve for residents who depend on flights to access medical care and travel between islands. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

All aboard! Skyline rail set to begin service for Kalihi, Honolulu airport and more. October is a big month for Skyline — the city’s rail system opens its second leg from the Aloha Stadium to Middle Street. The 5.2-mile segment will include key employment centers, the airport and Pearl Harbor.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Mayor dropped from key claims in former police chief’s wrongful termination lawsuit. A circuit court judge delivered a significant victory to Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi on Tuesday, ordering him dropped from two of the three counts in the wrongful termination lawsuit filed by former Honolulu Police Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan. Hawaii News Now.

City seeks development partner for affordable housing in Royal Kunia. The city-owned property slated for development is located at the corner of Kupuohi Street and Kupuna Loop. Aloha State Daily.

Park building expansion project begins in Kalihi. A nearly $1.1 million improvement project to expand the interior space of the multipurpose building at Fern Community Park in Kalihi has begun, city Department of Parks and Recreation announced. Star-Advertiser.

HPD wants more surveillance cameras at popular attractions. Rampant crimes came to a sudden halt after HPD began using a surveillance camera at each location at the end of August, the department claims. Hawaii News Now.

One-on-one computer help now available at 5 Oʻahu libraries. The Digital Navigator program launched this week at the ʻEwa Beach Public and School Library, Kailua Public Library, Liliha Public Library, Waiʻanae Public Library and Waipahu Public Library. The program will be available at library branches statewide in the coming weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Quieting invasive coquí frogs to hear the heartbeat of Waimānalo. The calls of coquí frogs resound through the forest of Waimānalo, echoing off the nearby valley walls. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island 

Council members make numerous amendments to plastic foodware bill. A heavily amended bill aiming to reduce plastic and polystyrene waste in Hawaii County was discussed by a County Council committee Wednesday before members voted to forward the next draft to the Environmental Management Commission for review and postpone further action until later this month. Tribune-Herald.

Henneries measure advances with tweaks.  A County Council committee on Tuesday advanced amendments to a bill that would allow backyard henneries in residential zones across Hawaii Island, tightening the proposed rules to limit noise, odor and conflicts between neighbors. Tribune-Herald.

144 Units Planned For ʻĀinakō Subdivision In Hilo. A planned affordable housing project on 61-acres of land in Hilo is detailed in a draft environmental assessment published in the October 8th issue of The Environmental Notice.  Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission to review proposed building height limit changes for Lahaina. The Maui Planning Commission will consider on Tuesday its recommendations on a bill to amend the West Maui Community Plan, increasing allowable building heights from 30 to 35 feet for new construction in the Lahaina National Historic Landmark District. Maui Now.

‘We just have to start’: Nonprofit faces $40 million task of restoring 8 historic sites in Lahaina. The Lahaina Restoration Foundation shared its master plan to restore the historic sites: the Old Lahaina Courthouse, the Seamen’s Hospital, the Baldwin House, the Masters’ Reading Room, Hale Aloha, Old Lahaina Prison/Hale Pa‘ahao, the Plantation House and the Kindergarten Building. Maui Now.

MPD promotes first woman into role of assistant chief. The Maui Police Department is promoting Joy Medeiros to the rank of assistant chief, marking the first time in department history that a woman has held the role. Maui News.

Kauai

DOW Kuhio Highway project ready to go. Work on Phase I of the Kuhio Highway (Hardy-Oxford) Waterline Project is ready to start during the project blessing that was held on Oct. 3, hosted by the Department of Water, Contractor Alpha, Inc., and Construction Manager Bowers + Kubota. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Hawaii HOA fees third-highest in nation, Green Fee Advisory Council sets inaugural meeting, Big Island council weighs plastic foodware ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawai’i Is Near The Top In Homeowners Association Fees. The median monthly fee paid to a homeowners or condo association last year in Hawaiʻi was $470, the third-highest in the nation, according to the latest estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. Civil Beat.

First meeting of Hawaiʻi’s new Green Fee Advisory Council to be held virtually on Wednesday. Hawaiʻi’s newly created 10-member Green Fee Advisory Council will convene for the first time on Wednesday during a virtual public meeting to discuss how this new climate-impact tax will go into effect and how money generated from this tax will be used. Big Island Now.

Former Gov. Ige's portrait will be added to Hawaiʻi State Capitol ceremony room. In his official portrait, former Gov. David Ige stands tall in an office at the Capitol, where he spent eight years leading the state.  Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now. 

Hawaii nonprofits navigate federal uncertainty while protecting vulnerable communities. A recent study conducted by the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Thompson School of Social Work and Public Health surveyed 24 nonprofit leaders across the islands and found that operational disruption and related anxiety was already evident, even before major funding losses mandated by the Trump administration had landed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi lawmakers explore potential of record expungements for minor offenses. A state pilot program has cleared the records of nearly 1,000 people arrested but not convicted for certain drug charges, leading to an interest in clearing others of minor offenses. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Financial Risks Loom Over The Honolulu Rail Project. Construction of the rail line through the urban core is about to begin in earnest, but some major cost items are still subject to change. Civil Beat.

Honolulu council to consider library vending machines for Skyline stations. The proposal, introduced by councilmembers Augie Tulba and Radiant Cordero, calls for an 18-month pilot program to install library vending machines at two key rail stations: Pouhala in Waipahu and Kahauiki near Middle Street. KHON2.

Why Honolulu Bus Fares May Be On The Rise. Honolulu transit fares could go up starting next year to help make up for lower ridership and pay for escalating costs as bus service is increased and new labor contracts are negotiated. Civil Beat.

Work set to begin on 12-month flood control project in Kailua. Crews will rebuild a 90-foot section of the Keolu Stream channel wall that partially collapsed, backfill behind the new wall, and install erosion control matting. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Plastic foodware restrictions eyed. A Hawaii County Council committee postponed action Tuesday on a bill that would prohibit food providers and county facilities from offering disposable plastic or polystyrene foodware and serviceware. Tribune-Herald.

Keaau High educator named Hawaii Teacher of the Year. Judith “Elise” Hannigan still remembers the words she scribbled onto a note card for a nervous student preparing to take the Advanced Placement English exam: “You’ll do on the test exactly as well as you put in the effort to do.”  Star-Advertiser.

High court rules that former warden was wrongfully terminated. The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled 4-1 Wednesday that Ruth Forbes, a former warden at Kulani Correctional Facility, was wrongfully terminated in 2015 by the then-Department of Public Safety. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Program to help fire survivors become first-time homeowners is flooded with applications. Maui County said it has received more than 1,800 applications from people who rented units before the wildfires and now want to buy homes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Army Corps of Engineers expect to restore temporary disposal site of Lahaina fire debris in Olowalu by end of year. Two years after the August 2023 Lahaina fire destroyed more than 2,220 structures, the transportation of 400,000 tons of mostly non-hazardous ash and debris is nearing completion — after first being taken to a controversial temporary site in Olowalu near the ocean and now to its final location on land purchased next to the Central Maui Landfill. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Real Property Division launches online home exemption application. The County of Kauaʻi Real Property Division has launched a new online home exemption application system that will make this process more accessible, efficient and user-friendly for residents. Kauai Now.

GoFarm Hawaiʻi seeking people interested in farming for its 15th Kauaʻi cohort. Since its inception in 2012, GoFarm Hawaiʻi has offered a nontraditional pathway to a career in agriculture.  Kauai Now.

Senators seek transparency in $4.2B Maui wildfire settlement, Honolulu mulls plastic bottle ban on city property, ICE arresting COFA immigrants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Senators want more transparency on state's share of $4.2B Maui wildfire settlement. Hawaiʻi senators are raising concerns about the lack of conversation between legislators regarding the state’s share of the $4.2 billion global Maui wildfire settlement. If the settlement goes through, the state will need to pay $800 million over two years. Hawaii Public Radio.

ICE arresting COFA migrants not charged with crimes. The 25,000 Hawaii residents from countries of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau who are legally allowed to live and work in the U.S. are facing greater risk of removal if they have been arrested, charged with or convicted of certain crimes — even years after they have served their sentences in jails or prisons. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Tourism Authority chair recommends putting audit probe ‘to bed’. Hawai‘i Tourism Authority board Chair Todd Apo told the HTA Administrative and Audit Standing Committee on Monday that he did not “see an abuse of discretion” regarding Hawai‘i Convention Center discounts received by two nonprofits affiliated with the previous HTA board chair, Mufi Hannemann, and recommended putting the matter “to bed.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Propose New Effort To Map Ancient Fishponds. Nonprofits would create a database of fishponds to help kickstart restoration efforts. Civil Beat.

Should jaywalking be allowed? State lawmakers are considering a pilot program. Senate Bill 106 would establish the program in counties with populations of 250,000 people or less — all the islands except Oʻahu — that “prohibits a pedestrian from being stopped, fined, or subjected to a penalty for crossing outside of a marked crosswalk.” Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill protects child entertainers’ earnings. Hawaii would join other states in protecting earnings for childhood entertainers under a House bill that’s scheduled to be voted on today by the full Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Child victims of abuse increasing in Hawaii, according to recent report. The five Children's Justice Centers in Hawaii last year tracked a combined total of 1839 cases of child sex abuse, felony physical abuse, child sex trafficking, internet crimes against children and children who witnessed a violent crime.  It marks an increase of seven cases from 2023.  KITV4.

Oahu

Plastic bottle ban on city properties considered. If adopted, Bill 18 would prevent plastic bottles having a capacity of 1 liter or less to be sold or offered for sale after Dec. 31 at any vending machine located at a city facility. Star-Advertiser.

HPD officer accused of leaking information to suspects in deadly fireworks explosion. A Honolulu police officer is on restricted duty for allegedly providing confidential information to suspects in the deadly New Year Eve’s explosion in Aliamanu. Officer Austin Ewaliko, a five-year veteran of the force, has had his police powers removed while the criminal investigation continue. Hawaii News Now.

Pilot in 2019 Oʻahu Helicopter Crash Wasn’t Properly Certified, FAA Says. The FAA says a whistleblower was correct in saying the owner of the helicopter tour company shouldn’t have certified the pilot, but investigators didn’t substantiate allegations of broader problems. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Kīlauea episode 17 sparks overnight. This is part of the ongoing eruption at Kīlauea on Hawai'i Island that started on December 23rd, 2024. KITV4.

Two festivals bring attention to growing Big Island cacao industry. Two festivals in the next two months highlight the growth of cacao farming and chocolate producing on the Big Island and how the industry can expand the agriculture and tourism sectors important to the island’s economy. Big Island Now.

UH Hilo dance team wins spot in national event.  The 16-student dance team was one of three teams that qualified for the national festival out of 40 teams that danced at the ACDA High-Desert Regional Conference in Laramie, Wyoming, in late March. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

DHHL awards nearly 100 turnkey homes in Waikapū as part of Puʻuhonua Phase II. The Department of Hawaiian Homes Lands (DHHL) awarded a total of 91 turnkey homes as part of Puʻuhona Phase II on Saturday during a ceremony at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College.  Maui Now. Maui News.

MEMA to launch new real-time evacuation notifications on Genasys Protect app. Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett announced a new evacuation notification platform to enhance emergency operations for residents and visitors on Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Kauai

Keiki and Junior Lifeguard programs on Kaua‘i kick off in June. Youth interested in participating in the 2025 Keiki and Junior Lifeguard programs can register starting May 1. Kauai Now.

Green to push for tourism impact fee this session, Blangiardi skeptical of Honolulu plastic ban proposal, climate change deniers bog down Big Island General Plan meeting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green plans new push on tourism fee, housing. Gov. Josh Green plans to ask the upcoming Legislature for the power to divert $60 million in each of the next two fiscal years from interest earned on the state’s “rainy day fund” to help Hawaii fight back against climate change and reduce the risk of future wildfires.  He also  expects lawmakers to finally decide how to best assess a proposed tourism impact fee, or “green fee,” to also help Hawaii address climate change. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Senate tweaks committees, chairs ahead of 2025 session. Unlike the state House, leadership at the state Senate will remain relatively familiar for the upcoming legislative session, with some tweaks to Senate committees and chairs. Star-Advertiser.

PUC to hold public meeting with assistance providers on power shut-offs. Hawaiian Electric has recorded over 10,000 customer disconnections related to missed payments as of August 2024, more than twice the number of disconnections that occurred in all of 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Who Should Be Trusted To Manage Remains Of Hawaiian Royals? Proposals are floating for either the Office of Hawaiian Affairs or a private entity to take over at the Royal Mausoleum. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Blangiardi administration skeptical of bill to ban single-use plastic bottles. As Honolulu lawmakers consider a ban on the sale of single-use plastic bottles at city-owned properties as a way to curb waste, Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration has expressed skepticism over desired restrictions it believes are largely unnecessary. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor expected to announce new Oʻahu landfill site Tuesday. A state-imposed deadline of Dec. 31 to replace the controversial, 35-year-old Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill in Kapolei, which is set to close by 2028 with an alternate location  looms over Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Low-income rentals proposed for Kalaeloa. Ikaika ‘Ohana proposes to develop the 260-unit project for low-income households next to a former Navy townhome community called Orion Park if exemptions from state zoning regulations for the area can be obtained. Star-Advertiser.

West Oahu Has A Domestic Violence Crisis. The Cost Of Living Makes It Worse. Domestic violence incidents were 40% higher in 2023 than they were pre-pandemic. Police officers in District 8, which stretches from Ewa Beach to Ka’ena Point, responded to more than twice as many incidents of household abuse in 2023 as their counterparts in other districts.  Civil Beat.

UH plans to improve Manoa’s popular McCarthy Mall. The University of Hawaii at Manoa will begin work as early as January that it says will transform the “heart” of the campus by making its already popular, tree-lined McCarthy Mall even more accessible while creating a five-story building designed to help students from different disciplines mingle and mix. Star-Advertiser.

Housing market on Oahu drops off. Even though single-family home and condominium sales showed modest year-over-year gains in November, seasonal trends resulted in a decline from the previous month. Star-Advertiser.

Over 35,000 participants hit the pavement for 2024 Honolulu Marathon.  Over 35,000 participants hit the pavement for the 52nd Honolulu Marathon this weekend, making it a record breaking year with the highest ever participation numbers. Organizers said registration was up 25% from a year ago. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

General Plan meeting strays off-topic with climate change talk. Hawaii County planning officials last week addressed some misconceptions about draft revisions to the county’s General Plan. About a dozen attendees were present in person or online Thursday at the Windward Planning Commission meeting, most of whom reiterated comments from last month’s meeting, claiming that anthropogenic climate change is a politicized myth intended to mask the rise of an authoritarian one-world government.
 Tribune-Herald.

Troubled Hilo residential development in foreclosure. An order filed Tuesday by Hilo Circuit Judge Henry Nakamoto appoints Aaron Lee of RE/MAX Properties in Hilo as the exclusive agent for the sale of the 158-acre property known as Puainako Heights. Tribune-Herald.

Business Monday: Breathing life back into Kona Bay Hotel once known as Uncle Billy’s. On Tuesday, the hotel site will be blessed for the start of a renovation to turn it into a Hampton Inn by Hilton. Big Island Now.

Locally grown Christmas tree project comes to a close. Locally grown Christmas trees will likely be available for many holidays to come, even as one project to grow the trees winds down. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

FEMA seeks vacant lots for temporary housing for Maui fire survivors. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reaching out to property owners in West Maui, seeking vacant lots to place temporary housing units for wildfire survivors. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable Housing Project Could Help Keep Teachers In Lahaina. The state introduced plans to provide affordable housing to West Maui teachers in 2022, but limited funding and the wildfires halted progress. Civil Beat.

Maui Strong Fund awards over $2 million to support mental health. The Hawai’i Community Foundation has awarded more than $2 million to 24 nonprofits that provide mental health support to individuals and families affected by the Maui wildfires. Maui News.

Kauai

Meadow Gold Dairies slated to lay off Kaua‘i-based employees in January. Positions that are being laid off include commercial drivers, branch managers, transportation supervisor, milk receiver, merchandisers, warehouse associate and customer service representative. Kauai Now.

‘Forest garden’ to spring up at a Wailua park because of strong public support. The māla lā‘au will occupy more than half an acre at the rear of the nearly 17-acre Wailua Homesteads Park, a popular recreational site home to athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts, playground equipment and a dog park. Kauai Now.

Locals-only discounts coming to Hawaiian Airlines, state DOT seeks young people for climate board, Honolulu mulls plastic bottle ban, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines to offer locals-only discounts. Starting next year, kamaaina can save money on neighbor island airfares through Huaka‘i by Hawaiian, a new permanent travel benefits program for locals launched following Hawaiian Airlines’ combination with Alaska Airlines.  Star-Advertiser.

Transportation Department seeking young people to serve on climate council. The creation of council is one of the terms that the state agreed to in a historic climate settlement this summer after a group of young plaintiffs sued the department to push for more climate action.  The youth council will advise the DOT as it works to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Looks At New Lots To Reduce Waitlist. More than 200,000 acres on all the major islands have set aside for Indigenous use, but most of those lots can’t be developed because they’re too far from roads, sewers, electric lines and broadband or are impossible to traverse, such as cliffsides and other mountainous areas. Civil Beat.

Gov. Josh Green calls Kennedy’s choice as HHS leader ‘insane’.  Green — the only sitting governor who is also a medical doctor — described the decision as “gross malpractice” and warned that Kennedy’s appointment “will do incredible harm if he’s the director of Health and Human Services.” Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard’s sympathetic views toward Russia cause alarm as Trump’s pick to lead intelligence services. Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to lead the U.S. intelligence services, in 2022 endorsed one of Russia’s main justifications for invading Ukraine: the existence of dozens of U.S.-funded biolabs working on some of the world’s nastiest pathogens. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu lawmakers mull ban on sale of plastic bottles on city properties. Bill 59, as drafted, states no single-use plastic bottles one liter in size or less may be “purchased, sold, or offered for sale for use at any city facility, city-authorized concession, city-sponsored or city-permitted event, or city program.” Star-Advertiser.

Plans For Hawaii’s First Public Teacher Housing Complex Face Backlash. A first-of-its-kind project would create over 100 units of affordable housing on Mililani High School's campus, but some teachers and families say the planning process needs more community input. Civil Beat.

City hosts workshops over Ala Wai bridge. The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services will host two public workshop meetings this week regarding the planned design and construction of the $63.3 million Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge. Star-Advertiser.

DOH warns of possible avian flu exposure at Mililani Pet Fair. The Hawaii Department of Health issued a warning Sunday that members of the public who attended the Mililani Pet Fair held on Nov. 2 may have been exposed to H5N1 avian influenza, which recently was confirmed in a backyard flock of various birds in Central Oahu. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

HART wants 26% budget increase for fiscal year ’26. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's combined budgets, which total over $968.3 million and would take effect July 1, show marked increases to debt service on the project’s loans as well as increased labor costs for the nearly $10 billion Skyline construction. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu 911 system restored for mobile carriers. The system went down for some mobile carriers, including AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, and anyone needing emergency service would have to use a landline. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Overnight ambassadors help reduce Waikiki homelessness. The expanded beach closure hours augment Safe & Sound Waikiki, a crime reduction and human services program that began in September 2022, coinciding with the start of the Waikiki Business Improvement District’s overnight ambassador program that assigns two safety “ambassadors” and a human services outreach coordinator to an overnight patrol to uphold park rules, guiding individuals toward safer behaviors and resources. Star-Advertiser.

Historic Chinatown building is turned into affordable housing. The $30 million conversion of the historic Hocking Building on a corner of North King Street and Nuuanu Avenue includes 40 apartments with monthly rent as low as $731, meeting space for the Downtown-Chinatown Neighborhood Board and office space for the nonprofit Institute for Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Kupuna at Kahala luxury retirement complex express grievances. About two-thirds of the community’s independent residents recently expressed alarm in a letter to the chief executive and board of the nonprofit that owns and operates Kahala Nui over how to pay for buying the land under the complex while also pursuing development of a second retirement complex. Star-Advertiser.

Students connect to heritage as Filipino studies begin. In spring 2025 the one-­semester course will be taught at McKinley High School, DreamHouse ‘Ewa Beach and Maryknoll School. The fall 2025 semester will include Leilehua High and James Campbell High, according to the DOE. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

New County Council Leadership Announced: Inaba As Chair, Onishi Vice Chair. The council leadership says it will prioritize a strong partnership with Mayor-elect Kimo Alameda and his administration. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

County provides update on Highway 137. At the first of a planned series of monthly community briefings about the ongoing project to reopen a 3.64-mile stretch of Highway 137 in lower Puna, Department of Public Works spokeswoman Sherise Kanae-Kane said the work is still on track to be completed by March 2026. Tribune-Herald.

The humpback whales are coming: Tour company spots one off Kona Coast. Hawaiian Adventures Kona on Saturday encountered their first humpback whale sighting of the season. Big Island Now.

Maui

State gets $10M grant to save West Maui reefs. A nearly $10 million federal grant to the state will restore habitat from “summit-to-sea,” with the goal of saving West Maui reefs. Star-Advertiser.

There's more FEMA housing for Lahaina fire survivors, but they'll have to pay rent soon. A Federal Emergency Management Agency modular home site in Lahaina called Kilohana will be ready to house residents Friday.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Why a $4 billion settlement of Maui fire claims is tangled up in court. Getting a deal done quickly meant adopting an unorthodox approach to the insurance industry’s role in the settlement — one that the industry is challenging. Now, hopes for a timely payout are at the mercy of the courts. New York Times.

Settlement negotiations underway in wrongful death lawsuit from 2023 police shooting. More than a year and a half after a Molokai man died in a police shooting on April 30, 2023, a civil lawsuit filed by his family might be headed for a settlement. Maui News.

Lahaina neighborhood watch, checkpoints prevent looting, disaster tourism. The program’s primary purpose is to prevent looting, mostly of building materials and tools left overnight. But it also has been to prevent a phenomenon known as disaster tourism, where visitors gawk and take pictures of destruction for social media. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami eyes state Capitol office after term ends. Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami seems to have his sights set on running for a position at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol after he terms out in 2026.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Meeting about Wailua Bay shoreline mitigation set for Thursday. For the past four months the Surfrider Foundation Kauaʻi Chapter has been opposing the implementation of “sand savers,” the last of three parts of the Kūhiō Highway Emergency Shoreline Mitigation Project for Wailua Bay. Kauai Now.

Concern for albatross as military proposes increased training on Kaʻula off Niʻihau. The Navy said it received some 1,800 pieces of testimony during the public comment period. It expects to finalize an environmental assessment early next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauaʻi gardens race to protect loulu palms from coconut rhinoceros beetles. The Kauaʻi-based National Tropical Botanical Garden's  prized loulu palms are being closely monitored as the beetles were discovered on Kauaʻi last year.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Ranchers seek more land, deepfake political messaging targeted, Senate to hold public hearing on vacation rental bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Ranchers Want More Land Transferred To The State Agriculture Department. Gov. Josh Green's administration has moved quickly to shift thousands of acres out of DLNR's control to boost ag production but more remains on the table. Civil Beat.

Deepfake political messaging is targeted. In an effort to keep artificial intelligence — or deepfake — messaging out of Hawaii elections, two bills would ban false information of a candidate or party, and a third would make it a petty misdemeanor to distribute — or conspire to distribute — fake political messages. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates began ballot process Thursday. Candidates for this year’s Primary and General elections can begin the process to have their names on the ballot starting Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now.

Hawai‘i State Senate to hold public hearing on vacation rental bill. On Friday, three Senate Committees will hold a joint public hearing on Senate Bill 2919, which establishes certain State Regulations for short-term vacation rentals, allows the counties to adopt zoning ordinances and regulations for the amortization or phasing out of certain lands or structures, and applies the TAT to shelters and vehicles with, or advertised as including, sleeping accommodations. Big Island Now.

Proposed state-wide ban on single-use plastics pushes for truly green alternatives. It’s been over a year since a ban on single-use plastics went into effect on Oahu, but lawmakers are looking at a new proposal that would ban it statewide and ensure the alternatives aren’t adding to the problem. KHON2.

Hawaiian Homelands Chair Embarks On 'Aggressive' Agenda At Legislature. Kali Watson is asking lawmakers for more time to spend $600 million for Native Hawaiian homesteads as well as more influence. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed bill will require Olelo Hawaii as high school graduating requirement. A new bill has been proposed that will require students to take two years of Hawaiian language as a requirement for high school graduation. KHON2.

From tents to barns, Hawaiʻi charter school advocates say it's time for a permanent campus. Advocates are urging state lawmakers to introduce a resolution to address the facilities issue as charter schools have long grappled with the problem that charter schools don't get funding for capital improvement projects. Hawaii Public Radio.

Alaska Airlines creates local advisory board as it moves to acquire Hawaiian Airlines. Alaska Airlines announced Monday that it has established a Hawai‘i Community Advisory Board, or HICAB, to honor the legacy and significance of the Hawaiian Airlines brand as the airlines work toward combining as well as to reinforce Alaska Airlines’ expanded role in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council bill for affordable rental housing advances. The Honolulu City Council has advanced a first-reading measure meant to give private developers of affordable rental projects more financial incentives to build. Star-Advertiser.

DOH orders Navy to retest Waiawa Shaft after complaints from users. The state Department of Health ordered the Navy to retest Waiawa Shaft after being informed of about 50 tap water and air quality complaints from Navy water system users. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Prosecuting attorney investigating Thursday’s shooting by police officer. The Department of the Prosecuting Attorney is investigating Thursday’s fatal shooting by a police officer in Makaha while the Hono­lulu Police Department also works to determine whether the man was armed when he lunged at officers. Star-Advertiser.

Concern Hawaii acid attack could chill Chinese tourism. The suspect in an acid attack appeared in court Monday and will be back in court Wednesday. Sebastian Mahkwan has been charged with attempted murder and assault charges. KITV4.

Family-run Wahiawa egg farm Peterson’s Upland Farm to close. Peterson’s Upland Farm, a family-run egg farm in Wahiawa, says it will be closing after 114 years in business. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A Birth On A Hilo Sidewalk Reflects Challenges In Helping A Growing Homeless Community. The infant's homeless, mentally ill mother is back on the streets as law enforcement wrestles with whether to charge her. Civil Beat.

Kona legislators introduce stricter coffee labeling laws. The move comes in response to deceptive labeling concerns and a recent report from the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture, which offered clear economic justification for the Legislature to increase the minimum content required for a product to bear the Kona name on its packaging. Big Island Now.

Measures seek to ease Puna’s insurance crisis. With Universal, one of the last providers offering coverage in lower Puna, abandoning ship, most homeowners will be left with only one insurance option: the state-run provider of last resort, Hawaii Property Insurance Association, whose yearly rates for basic coverage have ballooned to thousands of dollars. Tribune-Herald.

Proposed Kona Vistas project to go before Land Use Commission. A proposed Kona development that has spent decades in planning and is vehemently opposed by neighboring communities will be in front of the state Land Use Commission on Feb. 7 to address questions related to the project. West Hawaii Today.

BISAC launches detox clinic. As substance abuse continues to plague vulnerable populations, Hawaii Island’s first nonprofit detoxification clinic will open for clients this Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

One year later: Haleakalā fuel cleanup nears final remediation. A year ago today, nearly 700 gallons of diesel fuel spilled at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex at Haleakalā’s summit. Since then Air Force reports its officials have worked with the Maui community and Native Hawaiian organizations to remediate the site. Maui Now.

Boat groundings on Maui continue to escalate. The state has awarded an $842,000 contract to salvage one grounded boat and is considering a large fine against the owner of another — part of a year that saw an unusual number of vessels get stuck on the shorelines of Maui County. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.  Maui News.

Kauai

Safeway helps nourish neighbors on Kaua‘i. The crew at the Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i wrapped up a busy week by accepting 13 pallets of food at its Puhi Industrial Park offices and warehouse on Friday afternoon. Garden Island.