Rhoads sponsors 'no secret police' bill, Health Department moving out of sick building, legislators question HMSA-Hawaii Pacific Health alliance plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

'No secret police' bill is high on ACLU's list of Hawaiʻi legislative priorities. State Sen. Karl Rhoads is working with the organization to introduce a “no secret police” bill that would bar state, local and federal law enforcement from concealing their identity by wearing masks or covering their badges. Hawaii Public Radio.

More people are applying to state jobs, but actual hires still lag. The state saw a surge in job applications after several recruiting efforts, although the number of actual hires they’ve resulted in is still low. The state received about 41,500 applications last year, up 27% from 2024. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi Preschool Aid May Not Kick In This School Year After All. The expansion of preschool tuition subsidies is part of the state’s strategy to increase access to early education, but some families are facing delays in receiving aid. Civil Beat.

School Sports Fans Are Getting Meaner. Do Hawaiʻi Laws Fall Short? The recent assault of Moanalua High School’s assistant athletic director has sparked calls to better protect sports officials. Teachers say the DOE needs to do more to keep them safe, too. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi May Add A Test To Driver’s License Renewals As Traffic Deaths Climb. Drivers would have to take written knowledge tests during their license renewals, something Hawaiʻi stopped requiring almost three decades ago. Civil Beat.

Parts of state in drought despite wet December. Last month brought contrasting rainfall patterns across Hawaii, with Kauai and Oahu seeing widespread rain and some flooding, while Maui County and Hawaii island remained largely dry, according to a monthly climate summary released last week by the National Weather Service in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii lawmakers start looking into HMSA-HPH alliance plan. State lawamakers had dozens of questions Tuesday during a three-hour joint briefing at the state Capitol regarding the impacts of Hawaii’s largest health insurer, Hawaii Medical Service Association, joining forces with Hawai‘i Pacific Health. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4. 

Honolulu City Council advances bill to raise transit fares. A proposal to increase fares for riders of TheBus, TheHandi-Van and Skyline for the first time since 2022 is moving forward in the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Asbestos, safety concerns drive Hawaii’s Health Department from headquarters. Relocating 549 employees and some services for the public is slated for later this year, and is expected to cost $3 million for the next fiscal year that begins July 1 to rent space in two downtown Honolulu office towers under a lease slated to run about 15 years. Star-Advertiser.

Fighter jets return to Oahu skies for annual Sentry Aloha Training. The Hawaii Air National Guard is hosting its annual Sentry Aloha fighter exercise from Jan. 14-28. This year’s iteration, Sentry Aloha 26-1, includes about 1,000 personnel and 41 aircraft from seven states with additional support from Australia.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Public input sought on the stewardship of Mauna Kea. The Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority, in partnership with Kua o Wākea, will hold a series of 10 community workshops across the Hawaiian Islands starting Jan. 15. Big Island Now.

2 Hawaiʻi Island police officers arrested for perjury, evidence tampering. The State of Hawai‘i Attorney General filed a felony charging complaint in 3rd Circuit Court on Tuesday against two Hawai‘i Island police officers for a variety of charges, including perjury and evidence tampering stemming from unconstitutional searches of an arrestee’s belongings in May 2023. Warrants were issued for the arrests of Officers Blane Kenolio and Noah Serrao. Big Island Now. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Questions linger regarding workforce housing bill. An amended version of a bill that would allow residential development in Hawaii County’s industrial-commercial mixed-use zoning districts has been postponed until the Feb. 4 County Council meeting for possible further amendment. Tribune-Herald.

Penn asks Hilo judge to recuse himself in domestic abuse cases. BJ Penn has filed a motion asking Hilo Circuit Judge Peter Kubota to recuse himself from hearing any of Penn’s domestic-abuse related cases. In addition, Penn has filed a motion to discharge his court-appointed defense attorney, Alan Komagome. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Councilmember Sugimura to challenge Bissen for mayor's office. Maui County Councilmember Yuki Lei Sugimura has announced she will run for mayor. Sugimura was born and raised in Wailuku and has served on the council for nearly a decade. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui Police release details, body worn camera footage from fatal Wailuku shooting. Maui police released body worn camera footage and further details, regarding Thursday night’s deadly shooting in which a suspect was killed during an exchange of gunfire with police in Wailuku. Police have since identified the deceased as 40-year-old Kristopher Austin. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. 

Kauai

Kauaʻi Coffee Co. employees receive WARN notices with lease ending March 28. Kauaʻi Coffee Co. on Monday sent Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notifications, known as WARN notices, to its 141 employees with its land lease ending at the end of March. Kauai Now.

Lab confirms native duck on Kaua‘i found sick in November died from avian flu. The Koloa Maoli was found sick on Nov. 26 at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Hanalei Wildlife Refuge in Hanalei. The National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed the illness in the bird, which died within 24 hours of being found. Kauai Now.

Traffic deaths hit 18-year high, armed police to be installed at 3 Oahu high schools, Kilauea volcano puts on 10-hour show, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Road Deaths Hit 18-Year Peak Last Year. Most Other States Dropped. Hawaiʻi was one of just six U.S. states where the rate of road deaths in 2025 rose compared to 2024. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Threaten To Withdraw Funding For Invasive Species. Senators are troubled by what they see as slow progress from the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, which is struggling to find staff to keep invasive species at bay. Civil Beat.

How Hawaiʻi might spend funds from new climate tax on hotel stays. What's the most effective way to spend that money? That’s a question that faced the state’s Green Fee Advisory Council — a 10-member group making recommendations on where and how to spend this revenue. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi AG asks for $1M litigation budget to prepare for federal actions. The state attorney general’s office is asking for $1 million to support its litigation budget — largely to prepare for increased federal legal actions. So far, the Hawaiʻi attorney general has been a party to 39 lawsuits — three of which the office took a lead on. Hawaii Public Radio.

ACLU announces campaign for immigration justice ahead of Hawai‘i legislative session. The American Civil Liberties Union in Hawai‘i announced its 2026 legislative priorities, which include criminal legal system reforms, increased protection for Hawai‘i’s immigrant communities, and stronger efforts to defend gender equity and LGBTQ+ rights. Big Island Now. KHON2. 

State senators say they didn’t take $35,000 in a paper bag. Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi said he has asked all members of his chamber if they are, or know who is, the unnamed legislator mentioned in an ongoing public corruption investigation who accepted $35,000 in a paper bag, and all Senate Democrats have answered no. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Attorney Daisy Hartsfield to fill Waipahu House seat. Hartsfield — a graduate of Waipahu High School and the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa — has served more than 20 years in public service, working as a: Child Protective Services investigator, juvenile probation officer, drug court supervisor, special assistant to the Director of Human Services, administrator of the Department of Human Services’ Social Services Division, deputy public defender, deputy attorney general and deputy prosecuting attorney. Star-Advertiser.

Online ag declaration forms yield higher completion rates. Lawmakers want more. The implementation of online agricultural declaration forms for passengers flying to Hawaiʻi, compared to the previous paper-only system, has led to an increase in compliance, but state lawmakers say more needs to be done. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. and Pacific allies tout ties at defense conference. Military leaders, diplomats, arms manufacturers and investors are gathering in Waikiki this week to talk about tensions in the Pacific and send a signal that alliances in the region still matter. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Armed officers to provide security at 3 Oahu schools. Honolulu police and the Hawaii Department of Education are rolling out a new pilot program to boost safety at select Oahu campuses. Dedicated school resource officers will be assigned to three high schools: Waianae, Kapolei and Kaimuki high schools. KHON2.

Council member proposes task force to explore landfill-free future on Oahu. Council member Andria Tupola filed Monday Resolution 26-7, proposing a task force that would review Oahu’s long-term solid waste management strategy, and assess alternative waste reduction, recycling, diversion, and conversion strategies. Hawaii News Now.

City reschedules Waimanalo Gulch landfill public hearing. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s plan to expand the city’s Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill in Kapolei and extend its useful life following stalled attempts to find a suitable location for a new dump will also involve community comment, city officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Waialua residents challenge Kaukonahua Ranch agribusiness at DPP hearing. Dozens of North Shore residents traveled from Waialua to downtown Honolulu on Monday to testify at a Department of Planning and Permitting hearing over a controversial agribusiness project proposed for Kaukonahua Ranch, also known as Kam ananui Agribusiness — a project critics say is being improperly classified as “minor” despite what they describe as large-scale tourism impacts on agricultural land on Mount Kaala. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.  KHON2. 

Hawaii Island

Lava fountaining draws visitors from across the globe. Episode 40 of the ongoing summit eruption began at about 8:22 a.m. Monday, with lava fountains erupting from vents on the floor of Halemaumau crater, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. All eruptive activity remained confined within the crater and inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The eruption ended abruptly at 6:04 p.m. after nearly 10 hours of continuous lava fountaining. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. 

A Third Of Hawai’i Could Get Criminal Records Cleared. Few Do. The Attorney General’s Office just expunged the records of more than 1,300 Big Island residents through a pilot program. Some policymakers want to see the work expand. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Island program hopes to bridge generations through food. The Food Basket on Hawaiʻi Island is launching its 10-week “Food is Medicine” initiative. Kūpuna from the Keaʻau Community Center will take weekly cooking classes with recipes chosen by Keaʻau High School agriculture students.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Much of E. Hawaii had less than 50% of average rainfall in 2025. According to the National Weather Service, seven gauges in the Hamakua and Hilo districts recorded their driest calendar years on record — most notably the Hilo International Airport, which had its driest year since 1949 with 58.95 inches, or 49% of its yearly average of 120.39. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission to review Hoʻonani Village, housing and parking bills. The Maui Planning Commission is scheduled today to review land use bills regarding the proposed Hoʻonani Village project near Kahului Airport, as well as legislation regarding accessory dwelling units, agricultural retail structures and electric vehicle charging stations. Maui Now.

FEMA housing assistance for Maui wildfire survivors extended 18 days while yearlong extension under review. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended its temporary housing and financial assistance to Maui wildfire survivors to Feb. 28, which is 18 more days than the previous deadline. Maui Now.

Man killed in officer-involved shooting identified by loved one. A man killed in an officer-involved shooting on Maui last week has been identified as Kristopher Austin, 40. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Nominees announced for Kaua‘i Circuit Court judge. Five individuals are being considered to fill the judge vacancy for the 5th Circuit Court on Kaua‘i, following the retirement of Judge Kathleen N.A. Watanabe in August 2025. The nominees are Stephanie R.S. Char, Craig A. De Costa, Simeona L.L.A. Mariano, Michael D. Scarbo and Kimberly A. Torigoe Metcalfe. Kauai Now.

Hawaii to require parking fees at 4 more state parks, 95 nonprofits to share $49.5M in state emergency grants, crime drops in Waikiki, Kauai police chief candidates named, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

More state parks to require paid parking for nonresident, commercial vehicles. The state announced Wednesday that it will add parking management and fee systems for nonresident and commercial vehicles for four state parks. The state said the fee structure will follow the same format as the current system in place for the 10 parks that already charge fees for nonresidents. Hawaii residents will continue to receive free parking. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers award $49.5M in emergency grants to nonprofits. Four state lawmakers on Thursday picked 95 Hawaii nonprofits to receive $49.5 million in emergency grants to offset impacts of federal cuts by the Trump administration. The special legislative panel made selections from among 213 organizations that applied for $143 million. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

75% of middle-income households may or will leave Hawaiʻi, affordability survey finds. The results of a new survey show that almost half of middle-income workers are unsure if they will have to leave Hawaiʻi to go to a less expensive state. Holomua Collective, a nonprofit focused on affordability issues in Hawaiʻi, asked over 3,000 local workers about cost-of-living issues. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

City Council committee approves settlement in Sykap shooting death. A Honolulu City Council committee has recommended that the city settle a lawsuit brought by the family of Iremamber Sykap, who died after a police pursuit. The shooting happened in April 2021. Sykap, 16, was shot and killed after leading officers on a chase in a stolen car. Hawaii News Now.

Crime drops in Waikīkī as ‘Safe and Sound’ program expands to West Oʻahu. Crime in Waikīkī is down, and officials said a partnership between the Honolulu Police Department and the Waikīkī Business Improvement District is the reason why. KITV4.

Developer looks to build luxury high-rise at Ala Moana Center. Dubbed 1588 Ala Moana, the project is being eyed for the eastern end of a 4.3-acre section of the busy shopping center, specifically the makai parking lot fronting the Macy’s department store, near Atkinson Drive. Star-Advertiser.

City selects partner for Iwilei Center development. On Thursday, the city announced it selected EAH Housing to redevelop the nearly four-acre public parcel, located adjacent to the future Kuwili Skyline Station. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Officials Are Doing Little To Help ‘Hell-Hole’ Tenants. For months, as living conditions at 1136 Union Mall descended from squalor to violence, tenants have sought help from city officials, the police, city council and neighborhood board members, the courts — anyone who might help — to no avail. Civil Beat.

Here's when Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden will be closed for road repaving. Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden will be periodically closed from Nov. 24 to Dec. 19 to have its roads repaved. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Limited backyard hens will be allowed in residential areas on Big Island — and their eggs can be sold. During Wednesday’s meeting, Council Member Heather Kimball, the creator of Bill 52, addressed some of the concerns that were voiced during public testimonies on the measure, which included criticism over the number of birds being allowed, the coop requirement for the hens and the prohibition of selling eggs or birds. Big Island Now.

Police across the state set to receive largest raises in nearly 2 decades . On Wednesday the Hawaiʻi County Council voted to approve the “across-the-board” raises, which will cost the county a total of $57.3 million by the end of the contract in 2029. Hawaii Public Radio.

Parking Fees Coming To Two Hawaiʻi Island State Parks. Nonresidents will soon have to pay a parking fee to visit Wailuku River State Park and Kekaha Kai State Park. Big Island Video News.

Some relief for isle nonprofits: State announces recipients of $50M in emergency funds. Out of over 200 applications from nonprofit organizations statewide, more than a dozen serving the Big Island were among the 95 selected Thursday to received a portion of $50 million in emergency state funding awarded by the state Legislature from the 2025 Nonprofit Grants Program of Act 310. Tribune-Herald.

Hakalau refuge marks 4 decades of conservation amid funding threats. The nonprofit Friends of the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge runs the "Find Your Wild" event, which reached capacity this year. 2025 marks the 40th anniversary that Hakalau has been managed as a National Wildlife Refuge by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Controversial Vacation Rental Bill Splits Maui Council Vacancy Candidates. Because the eight current council members are evenly split on major policy issues, the late Tasha Kama’s successor will likely determine the fate of hotly contested legislation such as Bill 9, Mayor Richard Bissen’s proposed plan to phase out thousands of vacation rentals in an effort to create more long-term housing for residents.  Civil Beat. Maui Now. 

BLNR holds off on contested case decision for East Maui streams. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has deferred making a decision on whether to hold a contested case hearing over the diversion of public surface water from the Ko’olau Forest Reserve. Maui News.

Coastal limu testing shows nutrient pollution patterns across Maui shores. The latest round of coastal limu sampling on Maui appeared to find unusually high nitrogen levels at Kahului Harbor and Pōhaku Park, also called “S-Turns,” but low wastewater indicators, according to the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council, which coordinated the project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Police Commission Narrows Search For New Chief To These 4 Finalists. The finalists include Teresa Ewins, a former police chief in Lincoln, Nebraska; Roderick Green, a Kauaʻi police captain; Robert Larson, a police captain in Reno, Nevada; and Rudy Tai, a deputy police chief in San Diego. A fifth unnamed candidate pulled out of the running. Civil Beat.

Wailuā River State Park in Kapaʻa among four more state parks to charge nonresidents for parking. Nonresidents are charged $10 to park noncommercial vehicles at state parks, state monuments, state recreational areas, state historic parks and state wilderness parks, as well as $7 to park at state wayside parks where parking fees have been implemented. Kauai Now.

‘Don’t forget kupuna’. The county’s Employee Council message on Thursday was short and sweet as volunteers canvassed the campus at the Kaniko‘o Rice Camp Senior Housing. Garden Island.

State to dole out $250 to each SNAP recipient, federal judge in Hawaii rules on abortion drug, two dead in Ewa Beach care home fire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State to give $250 to each SNAP recipient. The state will provide $250 in November for each of Hawaii’s 161,400 island residents whose SNAP benefits will no longer be federally funded Saturday because of the ongoing government shutdown, Gov. Josh Green announced at the state Capitol on Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. Maui News.  Maui Now. 

Federal Judge In Hawaiʻi Rules FDA Violated Law With Abortion Pill Restrictions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration violated the law by imposing restrictions on accessing mifepristone, a medication for abortions and miscarriage management, a federal judge in Hawai‘i ruled Thursday. Associated Press.

Disgraced Cops And Ex-Felons Are Among Hawaiʻi’s Licensed Security Guards. The state board that licenses private security guards has broad authority to certify people who apply, even if their personal history raises red flags. Civil Beat.

A Revolving Door For Mentally Ill? Lawmakers Question Diversion Program. Lawmakers are expressing concern that a law meant to keep people with mental illness accused of minor crimes from languishing in jail is instead trapping some people in a revolving door at the Hawaiʻi State Hospital without meaningful treatment. Civil Beat.

Kamehameha Ending Scholarships For Students Attending Other Schools. The Kipona Scholarship is Kamehameha’s third-largest external financial aid program. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. 

Hawaii’s aiports avoid delays seen on mainland — so far. Despite the ongoing federal government shutdown and nationwide staffing shortages, Hawaii airports have so far managed to avoid significant delays, according to Shelly Kunishige from the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Tribune-Herald.

Visitor arrivals to Hawaii still softening. Visitor arrivals to Hawaii declined in September, but higher daily spending helped bolster tourism revenue — though inflation and rising operational costs cut into the increases. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ewa Beach care home fire leaves 2 dead, 1 seriously injured. A 93-year-old woman was killed in an Ewa Beach adult care home fire Wednesday night, and a 32-year-old woman who lived behind the home died Thursday at Straub Medical Center. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Registration for Foodbank’s Waipio distribution event quickly hits full capacity. The event, for federal workers and food stamp recipients affected by the U.S. government shutdown, was announced around midday Thursday but, at about 4 p.m., Foodbank officials said registration was closed. Star-Advertiser.

Law enforcement operation recovers 10 runaway teens on Oʻahu. Ten runaway youth between the ages of 13 and 18 years old were recovered on Oʻahu through a multi-law enforcement agency operation, local enforcement said.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Kona Airport shut down for hours to address runway repairs. Travelers faced delays Thursday at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, which closed for about seven hours to complete repairs to its sole runway. Star-Advertiser.

Enrollment up nearly 9% at Hawaii Community College. Hawaii Community College had one of the largest enrollment increases in the University of Hawaii system this fall, rising 8.7% to 2,489 students — its highest headcount in years and a strong sign of renewed momentum. Tribune-Herald.

Waimea District Park Playground Closed, Temporarily. The repairs to the playground equipment are expected to be completed by November 8, depending on weather conditions and other factors. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission defers consideration of larger ʻohana homes to build housing inventory. The Maui Planning Commission deferred consideration Tuesday of a draft bill to increase the allowable size of accessory dwelling units, also known as ʻohana homes, on smaller lots, a move intended to help address Maui County’s critical housing shortage. Maui Now.

Four Seasons wins SMA permit after Maui Planning Commission backs off property-wide water monitoring. The Maui Planning Commission voted 5-1 Tuesday to grant a special management area use permit for the Four Seasons Resort Wailea’s $16.3 million project to make exterior renovations, including new swimming pools.  Maui Now.

Lanai bowling alley saga shines light on county’s cumbersome parking mandates. Maui County lawmakers have approved a bill that clears the way for a new four-lane bowling facility in the heart of the island’s “downtown” area.  Maui News.

Aloha Pickleball holds groundbreaking for new 18-court complex in Kīhei. After five years of dreaming, planning and perseverance, Aloha Pickleball held its groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday for its new, state-of-the-art pickleball complex in Kīhei. Maui Now.

Community reports essential as little fire ant detections increase on Maui. With 75% of detections coming from residents, community engagement continues to be the key to protection. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County adopts first-ever framework to guide disaster. Kaua‘i County and University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program, also known as Hawai‘i Sea Grant, have developed a framework aimed at helping Kauaʻi’s communities prepare more effectively and, in turn, better support recovery following natural disasters. Kauai Now.

First infant, toddler center opens. The opening expands CFS’s capacity to serve more of Kauai’s youngest keiki and their families through Early Head Start services in a dedicated, center-based setting. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Police to get hefty raises, bonuses, perks; Green and Driscoll ink preliminary military land agreement; Waikiki bank robbery injures 18, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Arbitrator awards police officers their largest pay raise in 17 years. Police officers in Hawaii secured the increase after an independent arbitrator issued a decision on a new four-year contract that was lauded by union leadership. Police officer pay will increase 40% between 2021 and 2028. The  total compensation package will provide most members an increase of more than 27.5%. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Green signs ‘statement of principles’ with Army on land negotiations. Governor Josh Green and Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll have established a non-binding Statement of Principles as land lease talks continue.  Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. 

Young Brothers warns interisland shipping is at risk. A state commission began a multiday hearing Monday to determine whether the distressed company transporting most goods between the main Hawaiian islands deserves a big rate hike plus automated inflationary annual increases. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. KHON2.

The search is on for a new Hawaii Chief Justice. Longtime Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is retiring this week, and there aren’t yet enough qualified applicants interested in taking his place. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. 

Shutdown would add to Hawaii’s economic woes. Federal workers in Hawaii who are worried about a shutdown of the federal government that could begin at 6:01 p.m. today (12:01 a.m EDT Wednesday) are likely already cutting back on local spending, adding to Hawaii’s already sluggish economy, according to the head of the University of Hawaii’s Economic Research Organization. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Chemical dispersed during Waikiki bank robbery. Police search for suspect in Waikiki bank robbery; 18 patients treated at scene. Officers were called to the First Hawaiian Bank’s Waikiki branch on Kalakaua Avenue and Lewers Street just after 2 p.m. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. KITV4. 

Skyline stations transform into community food hubs. Honolulu Skyline passengers may notice something different on their morning rail commute: more than half-a-dozen planter boxes full of growing tomatoes, eggplants, scallions and sweet potatoes, among other edible plants. Civil Beat. KHON2.

‘Lord Of The Flies’: How Hawaiʻi’s Model Foster Dad Preyed On Boys. John Teixeira answered a desperate need for the state: Where to put boys no one else would take. He’d eventually take in almost 60. But there would be a cost. Civil Beat.

Community vows to protect Oahu’s water amid Red Hill contamination concerns. Community leaders, advocates and students gathered at Honolulu Hale on Monday afternoon to launch the “Pledge to Our Wai, Pledge to Our Keiki,” a public commitment to protect Oahu’s aquifer from ongoing contamination tied to the U.S. Navy’s Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility.  Star-Advertiser.

Forum on political history of Native Hawaiians seeks to help navigate the future. In a nod to Hawaiian History Month, a forum sponsored by the Honolulu mayor's office and the city council is to take place on Tuesday to highlight the changing political climate and the concern that programs to help Native Hawaiians are being targeted. Hawaii Public Radio.

Blaisdell Center has completed new state-of-the-art parking system. While the upgrade work started on Sept. 22, additional operational adjustments are still being finalized, and the Department of Enterprise Services is asking commuters and visitors to be patient during this transition period. Hawaii News Now.

Ala Wai Golf Course gets major upgrades, including solar and LED lighting. These improvements align with the City's wider initiatives to decrease energy consumption, lower expenses, and advance the objectives of the City's Climate Action Plan. Concurrently, they aim to maintain and enhance the distinguished golf course, which accommodates over 12,000 rounds of golf annually. KITV4.

Hawaii Business Magazine's new editor-in-chief talks next generation, media landscape. Jennifer Ablan returned home from New York after three decades to take the job. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Teen Arrested For Alleged Terroristic Threatening At Kona High School. A 14-year-old female from Ocean View was arrested after the Konawaena High School student allegedly threatened to shoot three fellow students on campus. Big Island Video News.

Construction of county’s Kukuiola project begins. The Kukuiola Emergency Shelter and Assessment Center in Kailua-Kona will include 16 emergency shelter units for the homeless, a manager’s unit, a 2,000-square-foot assessment center, community restroom facilities with showers, a 1,400-square-foot community center and a shared kitchen. Tribune-Herald.

Next Lava Episode In Kilauea Eruption Is About To Begin. Precursory activity in Episode 34 of the Kīlauea eruption got underway overnight at the summit.  Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Sunshine Interview: Maui Mayor Richard Bissen And Recovery Chief John Smith. The county’s chief executive and head of the Maui Office of Recovery discuss federal funding for the rebuilding of Lahaina and Upcountry. Civil Beat.

Pāʻia Elementary School to remain closed through Friday; asynchronous distance learning to begin Wednesday.  While the campus did not sustain direct fire damage, soot continues to impact parts of the campus. Maui Now.

Maui County Fair returns this week. The Maui County Fair is returning to the War Memorial Special Complex this week, featuring dozens of food booths, rides, live entertainment, livestock and poultry exhibits, a petting zoo and much more. Maui News. Maui Now. 

Kauai

Kauaʻi Water Utility Hawks $1.3B Plan To Overhaul Century-Old System. The repairs are needed to protect the island’s drinking water and ensure sufficient supply to face the growing wildfire risk, officials said. Civil Beat.

Kauaʻi-based conservationists sound alarm over mass killing of native birds. At Ninini Point near the Līhuʻe airport, Archipelago Research and Conservation recently discovered 125 dead birds. The group said all the birds had been killed by cats. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauaʻi County’s Housing Agency to open applications for community development block grants. Online applications will be available beginning Friday on the Housing Agency’s CDBG webpage. The deadline to submit applications is Nov. 13, by 4:30 p.m. Kauai Now.

Maui vacation rental phase-out of 6k units advances, Honolulu media fight for police band access, trash piles up on Kauai from worker shortage, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Maui vacation rental conversion bill passes initial vote. A divided Maui County Council committee has approved a controversial bill to prohibit short-term vacation rental use in about 6,100 condominiums that may somewhat replenish housing inventory lost to wildfire nearly two years ago. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Associated Press.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4. 

U.S. Rep. Case looks to improve funding for Indigenous-based tourism. A congressional measure seeks to expand Indigenous-based tourism through grants for Native Hawaiian Organizations, Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and Native Alaskans. Hawaii Public Radio.

Survey of bird keepers shows few knew how to prevent bird flu.  Hawaii health officials learned from a recent survey that few respondents involved with caring for birds actually know what to do to prevent bird flu. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Restoration of access to HPD radio channels advances. The City Council’s proposed legislation to force the Honolulu Police Department to restore limited access to its radio communications to legitimate news media outlets advanced to a second of three readings Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

KPT tenants sue to smooth relocations during $212M renovation. A group of Kuhio Park Terrace tenants are suing the state and asking a federal judge to halt their relocation by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority unless they have a comparable place to stay during a $212 million renovation of the public housing complex. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. 

City selects developer to build affordable workforce housing in Waikiki. The City and County of Honolulu has selected a Los Angeles-based company to build a new affordable housing project in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

Oahu concrete workers strike at Campbell Industrial Park. More than two dozen union workers at Island Ready-Mix Concrete are now on strike. KITV4.

Suit alleges abuse at Youth Challenge Academy. Six families have filed a lawsuit against the state, the state Department of Defense and the Hawaii Youth Challenge Academy alleging their minor sons were subjected to physical violence, sexual assault and gross neglect by staff and fellow cadets of Class 61 in 2024 at the Kalaeloa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Oʻahu Jail Killing Shines A Light On Prison Gang Mayhem. Grand jury testimony in a 2023 killing details the power and violence of an organization known as Murder Inc. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Foundation awards $450K to programs supporting Waimea. An award of $450,000 from the Richard Smart Fund has been granted to 24 programs supporting culture, education, health and safety in Waimea. Tribune-Herald.

Nonprofits invited to apply for county Impact Grants. Hawaii County has announced the launch of its fiscal year 2025-2026 Impact Grants program, inviting eligible organizations to apply for competitive funding opportunities that will drive positive change across Hawaii Island communities. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. 

Maui

Crucial Insurance Deadline Looms In Two Weeks For Maui Fire Victims. Homeowners and renters with property lost or damaged in the 2023 wildfires risk losing key insurance benefits if they miss Aug. 8 deadline to file claims or request extensions. Civil Beat.

Mayor Bissen to bring Holomua Kākou back to Maui’s rural communities.  Mayor Richard Bissen is bringing Holomua Kākou — talk story gatherings — back to Lanai on July 30 and July 31 as part of his effort to take county government to rural communities in Maui County. Maui News.

New helicopter aids Maui police night and day. Trying to elude Maui police just got a bit more difficult, but those who need to be rescued in Maui County might get help more quickly. Maui News. Hawaii News Now. 

Akakū has day in court; decision could affect future of public access TV on Maui. Facing impending revenue cuts that could threaten public access TV in Maui County, Akakū presented its case Wednesday before Judge Kelsey T. Kawano. Maui News.

Kauai

Trash not getting picked up again islandwide as Solid Waste Division continues to cope with staffing issue. Ongoing staffing issues resulted in yet another day of trash piling up at homes around the island as Kauaʻi County Solid Waste Division announced there would be no rubbish collection — islandwide. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

Multiple agencies wrap up exercise Thursday. The County of Kauai, in partnership with the Hawaii National Guard 93 Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team, coordinated a full-scale, multi-agency emergency response that closed a portion of Nawiliwili Harbor on Thursday. Garden Island.

County police deny having agreements with ICE, but they do; condos may get insurance relief, Nakasone named ICA chief judge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi Cops Said They Don’t Have Agreements With ICE. They Do. Advocates fear the agreements will be a slippery slope to local police becoming more involved in immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.  Police departments in all four Hawaiʻi counties have agreements with Homeland Security Investigations, which has been increasingly active in immigration raids since Trump took office.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii condo insurance relief on horizon. Administrators of the state’s dormant Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund are preparing to begin offering hurricane insurance policies in June to one or more types of condo association properties. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi Legislature Moves To Define And Criminalize Torture. Police and prosecutors testify the legislation is especially needed to protect minors. Civil Beat.

Accusation of committee power play highlights broader issue at Legislature. Common Cause Hawaii Program Director Camron Hurt explained that regardless of what happened, it highlights a systemic issue: committee chairs at the Legislature have too much power. Hawaii Public Radio.

Nakasone is named chief judge of Intermediate Court of Appeals. Karen T. Nakasone, associate judge of Hawaii’s Intermediate Court of Appeals, has been named chief judge of Hawaii’s second-highest court by Gov. Josh Green. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

DHS Director Ryan Yamane discusses new program to better assist foster care keiki . The embattled Department of Human Services, which oversees Child Welfare Services, has a new director. KHON2.

Hawaiʻi Is Ramping Up Measles Vaccination Campaign. A new emergency rule would allow students to receive the measles vaccine without giving up their religious exemptions in schools. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

‘The White Lotus’ May Cost Hawai‘i Taxpayers $550,000. The hit show debuted on Maui in 2021. Filming has since moved offshore but editing work done on Kaua‘i allows for tax benefits. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu EMS Director On Track To Keep Job Despite Complaints About Management. An army of supporters, including the governor, rallied to help Jim Ireland advance after opponents blamed him for a toxic workplace and slow response times. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

City considers using downtown minipark as a site for affordable housing. Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the city is considering redeveloping Kamalii Park into affordable housing units. But he also told a gathering that it’s still just an idea. Hawaii News Now.

Charity donates $10M for 2 hospital cancer centers on Oahu. Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women &Children and The Queen’s Medical Center-West Oahu Cancer Center were awarded a total of $10 million in philanthropic funding Thursday from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to expand access to cancer care. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Ruff Situation: Kailua residents call for compromise on dog park ban. It’s a law that has no wiggle room. Kaha Park – once the go-to spot for local dog owners – is now strictly off-limits to four-legged friends who like to run free. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island police detective found guilty of perjury. Hawaii County Circuit Judge Peter Kubota found William Brown guilty of knowingly making a false statement as a detective during a grand jury proceeding in 3rd Circuit Court. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

VIDEO: HVNP releases body-worn camera footage from March 4 officer involved shooting. As part of the National Park Service’s established protocol regarding officer-involved shootings, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has released body-worn camera footage from a March 4, 2025, officer involved shooting. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Maui

MPD getting set to launch new helicopter and train officers for canine units. The Maui Police Department’s new helicopter, dubbed “Blue Thunder,” will be operational by this summer, supported by officers on the ground with new portable radios with enhanced capabilities, members of the Maui County Council’s Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee learned Wednesday. Maui Now.

Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore appoints GM ahead of May 2025 opening. Hampton Inn & Suites Maui North Shore, a forthcoming 136-room oceanfront retreat set to debut in May 2025, has appointed Serkan Hizliok as Area General Manager.  Maui Now.

Lānaʻi skateboarders now have a dedicated spot to shred and drop in. Lānaʻi was once the only populated Hawaiian island without a skatepark. Since the '90s, skateboard enthusiasts have petitioned for a facility to be built. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kauaʻi mayor seeks exemption from possible state ban on landfills near aquifers. Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami is suggesting an exemption for the island if state lawmakers pass a measure to ban the placement of landfills over aquifers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai Police Department clean up graffiti in Lihue. Twelve police officers from the Lihue Patrol District volunteered their time to beautify seven public spaces along Rice Street. Garden Island.

Hawaii population rebounds, Honolulu improves monster home enforcement, Hawaii County Council agrees to assist federal law enforcement, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Report: Hawai‘i’s Population Has Been Rebounding Thanks To Locals Returning Home. The state’s yearslong population decline turned a corner in 2023, boosted by a net gain in Hawaiʻi-born residents returning home, a University of Hawaiʻi economist reported on Wednesday. The report based on census data shows more people moved to Hawaiʻi from the U.S. mainland than moved away from the islands in 2023. It’s a marked reversal of a trend that began in 2018. Civil Beat.

Travel-size shampoo and conditioner bottles might be checking out of Hawaiʻi hotels. House Bill 348 would ban small single-use plastic bottles in hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts — essentially any place with 50 or more lodging rooms — starting next year. Once 2028 rolls around, this ban will apply to any location that provides one or more rented rooms for lodging. Hawaii Public Radio.

Registration tax could increase for Hawaiʻi vehicles over 4,000 pounds. State lawmakers are considering increasing the tax on registering large vehicles from 2 cents a pound to 3 cents to fund the Safe Routes to School Program. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most bills aimed at child welfare protections moving forward in the legislature. Recent high-profile cases involving child abuse and neglect have prompted calls for stiffer penalties and more preventive measures that state lawmakers are tackling in the state legislature’s final month. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai'i public libraries brace for possible federal funding cuts. The Trump administration has taken aim at the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which could affect federal funding that goes to the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii businesses brace for fallout from Trump’s new tariffs. Mom-and-pop businesses across Hawaii could close their doors and consumers will soon face higher prices for everyday items after President Donald Trump announced an across-the-board minimum 10% tariff on most imports, which went into effect Wednesday night, local business and government officials say. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu

City’s ‘monster homes’ enforcement improve, audit states.  The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting has improved the way it reviews, permits, inspects and thwarts large detached dwellings from being illegally built on Oahu, a city audit found. Star-Advertiser.

New law limits street closures, festivals in Waikiki. A new law will limit the number of street festivals that can be held in Waikiki. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 50 into law Wednesday. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Council suggests 4% sewer fee boost for Oʻahu instead of 10-year increase plan. The Honolulu City Council is considering a short-term boost in sewer fees instead of a substantial increase. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Rail’s next segment to open by October. The second segment of Rail is less than six months away from opening to the public if all goes according to plan. Service will extend to Middle Street and open up access to a couple of important job centers. KHON2.

School Sex Abuse Case From The ’70s Could Cost State $330K. In the 1970s, Highlands Intermediate School in Pearl City allowed a security officer to take boys on camping trips, meet with students in a private office and run after-school clubs. All the while, he was grooming and sexually abusing male students. Civil Beat.

Discharge into storm drain leads to notice of violation for Oahu company. An incident involving the discharge of water into an East Honolulu storm drain is prompting a notice of violation to one Oahu company HTM Contractors. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Divided Big Island Council Signs Off 5-4 On Police MOUs with Feds. The council added language that the agreements don’t authorize local officers to enforce immigration laws. The Hawaiʻi County Council on Wednesday approved a controversial resolution allowing the mayor to sign agreements between the Big Island’s police department and federal law enforcement agencies. Civil Beat.

Bill to clear Hawaii Island marijuana arrests is sent to governor’s office. If signed into law, House Bill 132 would make it easier for the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center under the Attorney General’s Office to continue a pilot program that clears the arrest records of small possessions of marijuana on Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

Kona Apartment Building To Serve Residents Experiencing Homelessness. HOPE Services Hawai‘i has officially acquired the Kani Leʻa apartment building, expanding its efforts to provide permanent, affordable housing in West Hawai‘i. Big Island Video News.

Contract expires for nurses at Queen’s hospital on Big Isle. The contract for nurses at Queen’s North Hawai‘i Community Hospital in Waimea has expired but negotiations have entered a fourth month. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

Maui

Years after Maui led the way, surfing could become a statewide sanctioned sport in Hawaiʻi high schools under proposed bill. On Maui, state-sanctioned high school surfing meets have been happening since 2014. But that has not been the case elsewhere in Hawaiʻi, a place known worldwide for its great breaks and surfing champions. Maui Now.

New tree hub at Kahului Airport helps wildfire survivors replant lost landscapes. One of 24 spaces like it on the island, the hub provides free trees to residents rebuilding their homes in Kula and Lahaina, allowing them to replant the species that once shaded their yards before the 2023 fires. Maui Now.

Kauai

Community input sought on Kaua‘i’s updated mitigation and resilience plan. The County of Kaua‘i is updating its Multi-hazard Mitigation and Resilience Plan to address impacts of natural hazards affecting the Garden Isle as well as the county’s capability to mitigate those risks. Kauai Now.

Protecting Kaua‘i from invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle. Allowing the Coconut rhinoceros beetle to proliferate could be devastating to the island’s agricultural industry. Kauai Now.

Green's climate fee bill clears first committee, marijuana legalization gets initial approval, DHHL seeks $20M for geothermal exploration, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

First climate fee bills pass initial hearing, with concerns. Gov. Josh Green’s bills to fund Hawaii’s climate change response by increasing the state’s hotel room tax and dedicating all of the interest from the $1.5 billion rainy day fund were unanimously passed out of a House committee Tuesday, but with concerns that they need “a lot of work.” Star-Advertiser.

Marijuana Legalization Gets Initial Approval From 2 House Committees. The legislation would regulate and tax adult use of pot, as well as medical cannabis and hemp. Civil Beat.

Bill would create statewide policy for police car chases. A bill that would establish a statewide policy for police motor vehicle pursuits will be heard at 10 a.m. Thursday by the House Transportation Committee. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Might Finally Put The Bite On Bedbugs In Housing — But Not Hotels. Landlords would be required to ensure rentals are free of the tiny bloodsuckers that come out at night. Civil Beat.

Governor questions Trump picks’ experience, tells loyalists: ‘You have been tricked’.  Gov. Josh Green just returned from Washington, D.C., after advocating against President Donald Trump’s nominee for health and human services secretary. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Number of HPD officers disciplined declined in 2024.  Twenty-two Honolulu police officers were disciplined in 2024 for 19 incidents including fleeing the scene of a car crash after a chase, using excessive force against a detainee and falsifying police reports. That is down from 29 Opens in a new tab Honolulu Police Depart­ment officers disciplined in 2023 in connection with 28 incidents.   Star-Advertiser.

OHA Kakaako Makai housing bill advances.  Three Hawaii Senate committees have advanced a contentious bill to allow housing on land owned by the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs in Kakaako, makai of Ala Moana Boulevard. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu extends deadline for rail-affected businesses to apply for compensation.  The city Department of Budget and Fiscal Services says it will extend the application deadline for the so-called transit construction mitigation fund, or TCMF, grant online portal submissions for an additional two weeks. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Honolulu Festival to now charge admission. The Honolulu Festival, a cultural exchange celebrating Japan and the Pacific Rim, will return in March, and for the first time in its 29-year history will charge admission for adults to enter the exhibition hall on the ground floor of the Hawai‘i Convention Center, where a majority of the events are taking place. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

DHHL Seeks $20 Million For Geothermal Exploration On Hawaiʻi Island. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has identified three sites for further exploration in South Point, Kawaihae, and Humuʻula. Big Island Video News.

Council blamed for funding loss: Money for Puna alternate route study lapsed last year. A study to investigate possible alternate traffic routes into Puna apparently died more than six months ago, despite assurances by Hawaii County officials the project was still on track. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Maui

Senate bill passes to waive SMA permits for rebuilding in historic Lahaina town. Senate Bill 1296 would not require special management area permits for structures in Lahaina town if they were destroyed in the deadly Aug. 8, 2023, wildfire disaster and if planned reconstruction stays within the footprint of the structure as it stood before it was consumed by flames. Maui Now.

Bills to curb rent increases referred to committees, but no hearings scheduled yet. Bills have been referred to committees in both chambers of the Hawaiʻi State Legislature to limit the amount landlords can raise rents for tenants at a time of desperate housing shortages and renters having few, if any, options if they can’t afford demands for higher monthly rent payments. Maui Now.

Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee discusses Maui Fair. On the agenda for Tuesday’s Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee was Bill 7, a bill to amend the fiscal year 2025 by increasing carryover and savings from the General Fund by $1,500,000, as well as adding a new appropriation entitled “Festivals of Aloha, Inc. for the 2025 Maui County Fair” in the amount of $1,500,000. Maui News.

Maui police release video of officer-involved shooting in Pukalani. Body camera footage captures the moments leading up to the fatal shooting of Macayla Deponte, less than seven minutes after Maui police officers arrived at a Pukalani residence. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Kauai

Helicopters provide critical support for Kaua‘i Forest Bird Recovery Project during field season. More than two dozen people flocked together Feb. 3 in a hangar on the north end of Līhuʻe Airport, joining Kaua‘i Forest Bird Recovery Project for an annual blessing to kick off another season of fieldwork on the Garden Isle. Kauai Now.

Lihue man encounters shark at Lydgate Beach. Chris “Shewy” Shewman of Lihue recounted his frightening experience with a shark that occurred while he was surf-foiling at Lydgate Beach on Feb. 1. Garden Island.