Hawaii lawmakers set to get 13% pay hike, spring break boom crowds Waikiki beaches, mask enforcement increases, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol ©2021 All Hawaii News

Two Pay Raises For Lawmakers Over The Next Year Are Raising Eyebrows. The salary commission approved the wage hikes two years ago but critics now question the optics of government officials getting pay raises during an economic crisis. Civil Beat.

Did Unions’ Lack of Support Spell Trouble for School Superintendent? Some education insiders said while union opposition was damaging, it was not as simple as unions throwing their weight around. Civil Beat.

Economic recovery rosy with billions in federal aid set to roll into Hawaii. Hawaii’s economic recovery is looking up, with billions in additional federal aid set to pour into Hawaii this year and the pace of vaccinations picking up, Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, told lawmakers Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii tourism gains momentum. Despite doldrums in January and February, Hawaii’s visitor industry has rounded the corner and taken off. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s seeing a boom of spring break vacationers. Are they following mask rules? The state says more than 28,000 people arrived in the islands this past Saturday, nearly matching the pre-pandemic average for March. Hawaii News Now.

Targeted messaging necessary to overcome COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, UH study finds. According to the surveys, 55% of adults 18 and older said they will “definitely” or “probably” get shots, while 12% indicated they will “definitely not” or “probably not” get vaccinated, compared with 17% in the U.S. Star-Advertiser.

Ige, department heads acknowledge challenges of pandemic response over the last year. Gov. David Ige acknowledged Monday there were missteps along the way from his administration in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. But he also pointed to positive signs, saying Hawaii has the lowest-in-the-nation per capita COVID infection and death rates, saying that’s proof he put the community first. Hawaii News Now.

Legislators defer measure relating to Safe Travels program. A bill that would allow Gov. David Ige to impose a statewide COVID-19 travel restriction plan stalled Monday and is likely dead. Tribune-Herald.

Immigration Reform Efforts In Congress Offer Hope To Hawaii ‘Dreamers’. But the bill the House passed last week that would create a pathway to citizenship for 2.5 million undocumented immigrants faces an uphill battle in the Senate. Civil Beat.

State quietly makes changes to vaccine registration process for most employers. There’s a new registration process for many workers who would like to get COVID vaccine. It’s a change the state Department of Health made quietly earlier this month ― never making an official announcement to broadly inform the public. Hawaii News Now.

March 22, 2021 COVID-19 Update: The state Department of Health reports that there were 79 additional COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Monday, including 48 on O‘ahu, 19 on Maui, nine on Hawai‘i Island, two on Moloka‘i, and one on Kaua‘i. Maui Now.

Oahu

40 officers rattle peaceful protest at Kapiolani Park. Honolulu Police Department Chief Susan Ballard said she thought thousands of protesters were at Kapiolani Park on Saturday afternoon — dispatching dozens of officers to a peaceful Aloha Freedom Coalition event where 400-500 gathered at a rally in protest of COVID-19 health restrictions. Star-Advertiser.

HPD’s embattled chief denies reports of low morale, promises better communication. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard is now promising more transparency and openness after a months-long pause in public statements. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Plea Agreement Details How Miske Allegedly Ordered A Chemical Attack On Rival Nightclub. Ashlin Akau said she was recruited by a Miske associate to take part in the attack on the Ginza Night Club. Civil Beat.

Hopes dwindle for more clarity in HART board votes. Confusion about voting rules for members of the board that oversees the city’s troubled rail project remains unresolved after bills that attempted to provide clarity appear to be dead this legislative session. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Students at Aikahi Elementary are returning to campuses under new CDC guidelines. Precisely a year after Hawaii public schools switched to distance learning due to the coronavirus, nearly the entire student body at Aikahi Elementary School flocked back to campus Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Tourism boom provides boon for Hawaii farmers. For many local farmers, the fruits of their labor are finally paying off after months of uncertainty. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

HMC expands eligibility for COVID vaccine; Hospital opens early registration for people who are 50-65 years old. Assistant Hospital Administrator Kris Wilson said the hospital will this week begin processing the sign-ups to allow those individuals to register and schedule appointments at upcoming mass vaccination clinics planned for April 3 and 24 at Edith Kanakaole Multi-Purpose Stadium in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

KTA Super Stores will offer its own large-scale COVID-19 vaccination clinic from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday at Edith Kanakaole Multi-Purpose Stadium in Hilo. The grocery chain aims to administer 1,000 first doses of the Moderna vaccine. Tribune-Herald.

COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration Now Open at KCH. The Kona Community Hospital on Monday, March 22 began accepting pre-registration applications for individuals aged 50 years and older who would like to sign up to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Big Island Now.

Banyan Drive Proposals To Be Selected Next Month. An announcement is expected in April on the selection for proposals - which includes the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel and Country Club Condominium Hotel. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Teachers, parents and students call for Ke Kula O Ehunuikaimalino principal’s ouster. Makua, haumana and kumu took to the streets Monday making public their call for the removal or resignation of Ke Kula O Ehunuikaimalino Po‘okumu Makala Pa‘akaula. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

189 Citations Over Two Weeks During Maui Mask Enforcement. The Maui Police Department issued 189 citations over a two week period for violation of public health rules and orders as part of an ongoing face mask enforcement effort. Maui Now.

Two students and two employees at Maui County public schools have tested positive for COVID-19, the state Department of Education reported Friday. All were in the Baldwin-Kekaulike-Maui Complex, which has seen 54 cases since June 26. Maui News.

COVID-19 Outbreak at Maui Jail Compounded by Staffing Shortages, Contagious Variant. The Maui Community Correctional Center is seeing a significant drop in COVID-19 cases after nearly two months of trying to contain the virus. Hawaii Public Radio.

Micro Grants Awarded to 105 Small Farms in Maui County. Maui County’s $2.5 million Agricultural Micro Grants Program, administered by Maui Economic Opportunity, purchased tractors, chippers and other supplies; put up fencing and sheds; and established an online presence for 105 small farms in the county. Maui Now.

Kauai

King Kamehameha celebrations barred due to COVID. The King Kamehameha Celebration Commission on Friday announced the cancellation of the King Kamehameha Celebration parade events statewide due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Garden Island.

County seeks to adopt microchipping program for pets. A one-time $20 microchipping cost may soon replace biennial licensing fees for cats and dogs on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

New Kauai program encourages visitors to participate in beach cleanups. On Kauai, guests who vacation at The Cliffs at Princeville are now encouraged to do beach cleanups while they enjoy the sun and surf. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Justice Department challenges Hawaii's traveler quarantine, $70M in public worker raises despite economic shutdown, police reform back at Legislature, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands.

Honolulu airport in pre-COVID days ©2020 All Hawaii News

Justice Department Says Ige's Quarantine Order Likely Discriminates Against Out-Of-State Travelers. The Department of Justice is backing a lawsuit filed by Mainland residents who are challenging the constitutionality of Gov. David Ige's mandatory 14-day quarantine. Hawaii Public Radio.

Justice Department urges Gov. David Ige to lift out-of-state quarantine. The U.S. Department of Justice is the newest powerful interest pressuring Gov. David Ige to reopen Hawaii’s out-of-state tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Justice Department Files Statement Challenging Constitutionality of Hawai‘i Governor’s COVID-19 Order. The Department of Justice today filed a statement of interest in Hawaiʻi federal court in support of a lawsuit filed by residents of Nevada and California who own property in Hawaiʻi challenging a measure by Governor David Ige in response to COVID 19 that mandates a 14-day self-quarantine for individuals entering Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.

DOJ supports legal challenges to Gov. Ige’s traveler quarantine.  Legal challenges are surfacing against Gov. David Ige’s mandatory traveler quarantine. The U.S. Justice Department says the quarantine — which remains in place for out-of-state and international travelers — is discriminatory against non-residents. Hawaii News Now.

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State plans to have out-of-state visitors test before departing or quarantine when they arrive. As the state gears up to restart the tourism industry, visitors will be required to get tested or they have to go on 14-day quarantine when they arrive. KHON2.

Face Scanners At Hawaii Airports Are ‘Terrifying,’ ACLU Says. A DOT spokesman says the pilot program isn’t technology from “spy movies,” but a civil rights group argues it is mass surveillance. Civil Beat.

Civil Rights Watchdog Raises Constitutional Issues With Plan To Use Facial Recognition On Travelers. The ACLU of Hawaii sent a letter to state officials on Monday saying the group has serious privacy and civil rights concerns over the planned use of facial recognition in state airports. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Amid a pandemic, lawmakers give preliminary approval to public-worker raises. House and Senate negotiators gave tentative approval Tuesday afternoon to a bill that includes more than $70 million for raises for public workers, a step that could turn out to be politically perilous during a pandemic in which thousands of private-sector workers have lost their jobs. Star-Advertiser.

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Bill requiring identification of disciplined officers advancing. State lawmakers are a step closer to passing a bill that would require the names of disciplined police officers to be disclosed publicly like other government employees. Star-Advertiser.

Police accountability bill back on the table. A measure to disclose the names of officers discharged or suspended from a county police department is back on the table. West Hawaii Today.

State Legislature taking up several coronavirus-related measures after reconvening. A bill that would allow the state Department of Health to impose quarantines without an emergency proclamation by the governor is one of several COVID-19-related bills introduced in the state Legislature this week. Tribune-Herald.

COVID funds, Young Brothers bailout up for debate on Oahu. Lawmakers review final bills before adjourning July 10. Maui News.

Lawmakers to discuss financial bailout for inter-island shipping company. A move to bail out Young Brothers could mean bringing in a new shipping provider. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers call on state to give all 14,000 seniors at Hawaii care homes a COVID-19 test. Lawmakers are calling on the state to test all 14,000 kupuna in the thousands of nursing and care homes across the state. Hawaii News Now.

Chamber of Commerce Hawaii urges Ige to create a ‘definitive plan’ for reopening transpacific travel. On Tuesday, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii delivered a petition to Gov. David Ige with more than 1,000 signatures in support of reopening the tourism economy and other measures to help local businesses. Pacific Business News.

Businesses ‘fighting for survival’ as Hawaii visitor arrivals fall below 400 for 2nd straight day. The state lifted the interisland passenger quarantine on June 16, but the relaxing of regulations has only been of limited benefit to Hawaii’s visitor industry. Star-Advertiser.

Shutdown of female work furlough program could be temporary. The state Department of Public Safety said a planned shutdown of a program for furloughed female prisoners working to reenter society is temporary because of expected COVID-19-related budget cuts. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian Activists Turn Into Candidates For The 2020 Elections. An apparent increase in the number of Native Hawaiian candidates in 2020 features many young people involved with resistance movements like the Mauna Kea protests. Civil Beat.

Ocean Voyages Institute hauls in record 103 tons of trash from Pacific Ocean. The Ocean Voyages Institute this morning pulled into Pier 29 in Honolulu with more than 100 tons of marine trash hauled from the middle of the Pacific Ocean, mission completed despite the ongoing pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Paralympian dies 60 days into solo row journey from L.A. to Honolulu. A transpacific journey has ended in heartbreak for loved ones of three-time paralympian and Marine Veteran Angela Madsen. Hawaii News Now.

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VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 23: 3 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. All the new cases were on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Hawaii sees 3 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 819. The  new cases were all on Oahu Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

20 Years Of Honolulu Police Misconduct Summaries Document Serious Bad Behavior. Secrecy has long masked serious incidents of misconduct and outright corruption within the ranks of the Honolulu Police Department. Civil Beat.

Honolulu mayor supports state bill calling for police reform. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said he supports a state bill calling for police reform. KITV4.

Trump International Hotel latest in list of hotels extending furloughs for hotel workers. More workers in the hotel industry are facing layoffs and extended furloughs. KHON2.

More popular Pearl Harbor attractions set to reopen after 3 months. Two popular tourist attractions are reopening Wednesday morning at Pearl Harbor. The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and the Battleship Missouri Memorial are set to welcome guests back under new social distancing guidelines and other CDC recommendations. Hawaii News Now.

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Honolulu’s city halls are getting ready for more in-person transactions. Satellite City Halls on Oahu will start reopening for regular services on July 1. Walk-ins aren’t allowed, and appointments will be required. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu satellite city halls reopen by appointment only. Satellite city halls across Oahu will start reopening Wednesday, July 1. KHON2.

Satellite city halls to begin reopening for in-person services on July 1. Satellite city halls on O'ahu will start reopening for in-person services on July 1. In-person services will be by appointment only. KITV4.

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Outdoor dining buying more time for Hawaii restaurants to stay in business. The Hawaii Restaurant Association says the city’s sidewalk permitting can be tough because there has to be ample space. KHON2.

Honolulu liquor license applicants can get extensions to pay fee. Honolulu businesses still deciding whether or not to renew their liquor license could get an extension to pay the fee, but they must submit a renewal application by Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Two O'ahu Catholic schools will shut down at the end of the month. Financial concerns during the COVID-19 crisis are the reason for the closures. KITV4.

Dispute between state, ride-hailing companies delays unemployment payments for drivers. Navigating the maze of unemployment has been frustrating but for ride-hailing drivers it’s been especially confusing as Uber and Lyft battle with the state over their status. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hapuna lifeguards, EMS on the state chopping block. Some $6 million in state funding for lifeguards, emergency medical services and ambulances is on the chopping block, forcing Hawaii County to look for ways to cover expenses out of its own tight budget, which already had to be balanced by raising taxes on luxury homes. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island Mayor says to keep county COVID-free, he had to make tough decisions that came with consequences. Records will show the island of Hawaii was the first to declare a state of emergency. I’ve said it a thousand times. I’d rather people criticize me for overreacting, than criticize me for “under reacting,” said Kim. KHON2.

Program helps families who receive free, reduced-price school meals. More than 20,000 Big Island students could receive food assistance thanks to the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer program. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai’i County Expands Emergency Loan Eligibility. Hawai’i County has relaxed eligibility requirements for emergency personal loans amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Now.

Update On Young Brothers Shipping Containers Lost Off Hilo. The effort to locate and salvage multiple, 40-foot shipping containers that fell overboard near Hilo Harbor continued today. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Mayor: Only 30 to 35% of businesses have reopened. ‘We’re not at a very good state’ right now, says Victorino. Maui News.

Police routines returning to normal as COVID-19 wanes. Virus-related rules enforcement, activity cost about $1M in OT a month, 12-hour shifts. Maui News.

Maui expands affordable housing inventory at critical time. Construction was recently completed on the 120-unit Kaiwahine Village community in Kihei, where advertised monthly rent was as low as $510 for two-­bedroom apartments and $571 for three-bedroom residences. Star-Advertiser.

Housing Rental Assistance Available for Maui Residents Impacted by COVID-19. The County of Maui reminds residents that rental assistance may be available to those who have lost their job or have reduced income by more than 25% as a direct result of COVID-19. Maui Now.

Kauai

Eight individuals in isolation. Kaua‘i health officials have identified no new positive cases after testing a large number of contacts of Kaua‘i COVID-19 cases over the weekend. Garden Island.

Malama Kaua‘i: Connecting farmers to the community. In April and May, Malama Kaua‘i helped deliver 6,000 bags of local produce to families in need. The money from those purchases went to local farmers. Garden Island.

Allison Carveiro is stepping into the role as ‘Ele‘ele School’s new principal beginning in July 1, and is looking forward to continuing a more-than-30-year career in education. Garden Island.

Raises nixed for top state officials, Honolulu plans to allow dine-in, modified lockdown to be extended through June, Ironman postponed, Maui fair canceled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Capitol interior PC:Charles Freedman

Top State Officials Likely Won’t Get Pay Raises This Year. Gov. David Ige and his cabinet, state judges and lawmakers wouldn’t get pay raises this year under a proposal that won approval of a key panel of senators Thursday. Civil Beat.

Bill Seeks to Defer Salary Increases for Executive, Judicial, and Legislative Branches in Hawai‘i. The Senate Ways and Means Committee today approved House Bill 117 SD1, a bill to defer salary increases as recommended by the State Commission on Salaries for executive, judicial, and legislative government officials. Maui Now.

House bill deferring salary bumps for gov’t officials move to second reading. The Senate Ways and Means Committee on May 14 approved House Bill 117 SD1, a bill to defer salary increases as recommended by the State Commission on Salaries for executive, judicial, and legislative government officials. KHON2.

Many government officials may not be getting a pay raise this fiscal year. On Thursday the Senate Ways and Means Committee approved a measure to defer pay increases for members of the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches of government. KITV4.

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Gov. David Ige plans to extend Hawaii’s safer-at-home order through June 30. The governor said the state will consider reopening medium risk businesses as indoor dining restaurants, hair salons and barber shops. Star-Advertiser.

Governor says he’ll extend ’safer-at-home’ order through June, but lift more restrictions. Hawaii News Now.

Ige Wants To Extend Hawaii’s Travel Quarantine Through June. During a Facebook Live broadcast Thursday, Ige said he is looking to extend the quarantine, as well as the state’s “safer-at-home” mandate, through June. In the meantime, he and state officials will announce another round of businesses that may reopen and what kinds of activities may resume in the weeks to come. Civil Beat.

Governor To Extend “Safer-At-Home” Mandate Through June. Governor David Ige says he told the county mayors' that his intention is to extend the safer-at-home mandate through the end of June. Big Island Video News.

Governor Ige considering extending the 'safer at home' order until end of June. On Thursday afternoon Governor David Ige said he's considering extending his "Safer at Home" order until the end of June. KITV4.

Ige inclined to keep at-home order until June 30. Gov. David Ige said Thursday he’s inclined to extend his “safer-at-home” order through the end of June to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Associated Press.

Governor Ige: Hawai‘i’s “Safer-At-Home” Order Will Likely Be Extended Through End of June. Maui Now.

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Senator claims state dragging its feet on thermal screenings, mass testings at airports. Installing $20 million in thermal screening devices at Hawaii’s airports is a key part of re-opening the state’s tourism economy. But one state lawmaker said the devices won’t be available soon enough and he blames the state for the delays. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii officials pass the blame for loopholes in mandatory quarantine for incoming passengers. Hawaii’s plan for economic and community recovery and resilience hinges on collaboration, but city and state leaders are still fighting over who is to blame for loopholes in the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine for incoming passengers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials told visitors not to come here on vacation, but some are doing it anyway. Even with tourism lockdowns in place, arguably the nation’s strictest, some of the visitors that came to Hawaii by air on Wednesday said they were coming for vacation. Star-Advertiser.

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Bolstering contact tracing. Hawai‘i state officials are doubling down on COVID19 contact tracing efforts, with a new training program from University of Hawai‘i and the Hawai‘i Department of Health. Garden Island

More than a dozen inmates granted early release amid pandemic have been re-arrested. Law enforcement authorities in Hawaii have re-arrested at least a dozen people who had been granted early release from jails because of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii to tap ‘Pandemic EBT’ program for an extra $25M in food aid. State officials plan to start a new program that will allow all families with children who receive free lunches at public schools to also get help from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as food stamps. Star-Advertiser.

DOE Is Opening Up Classrooms This Summer For Some Students. The schools superintendent said in-person instruction will be reserved for students who are struggling with virtual learning. Civil Beat.

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Lt. Gov. Josh Green opening free medical clinic in Honolulu for those unemployed, uninsured due to coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii’s lieutenant governor is opening a free clinic to specifically treat the recently unemployed who have lost their health insurance due to the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. governor, community doctor sets up Aloha Free Clinic to help the uninsured. Help is on the way for those whose health insurance benefits are about expire. KHON2.

Army of volunteers assembled to staff free health clinic for Hawaii’s newly uninsured. In addition to in-person visits, the free clinic plans to offer tele-medicine so providers can connect with patients living on neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

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No New COVID-19 Cases Reported In Hawaii. For two weeks, there have been fewer than six new cases reported each day. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i Reports Zero New COVID-19 Cases Thursday. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported zero new cases of COVID-19 Thursday for the second time since the pandemic began in the state, and actually reduced the case count from 638 to 637 statewide by lowering the out-of-state diagnoses from 11 to 10. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii sees large spike in applications for food stamps. That increase reversed a trend throughout the first three months of the year, when the number of SNAP recipients was consistently lower each month than in 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell wants to allow dining in at restaurants by June 5. Oahu residents could be sitting down in restaurants again on June 5. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is asking for the governor’s approval, and the governor seems to be open to the idea. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell allows limited use of parks, religious activities. Mayor Kirk Caldwell extended his “safer-from-home” emergency order, with modifications, through June 30, and called for Gov. David Ige to allow indoor dining at Oahu restaurants starting June 5. Star-Advertiser.

Phase one of O'ahu re-opening kicks off Friday May 15. O'ahus retail shops and shopping malls have the green light to open at 12:01 am on Friday. KITV4.

Outdoor sports fields, courts in Honolulu to open with limitations. But with the threat of the virus still looming, some activities will not be enjoyed. KHON2.

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Oahu retailers make one final disinfecting sweep before opening doors to customers.  Merchants across Oahu have been sanitizing, posting social-distancing signs, and trying to figure out a new shopping normal. Hawaii News Now.

HART: Utility Work In Town Will Cost At Least $135M More Than Expected. Rail officials didn’t have a clear idea of how much the relocation work would cost when they awarded the contract to get it going. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ironman postponed. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced Kailua-Kona’s biggest sporting event — the Ironman World Championship — to be postponed until 2021, an economic hit for Hawaii Island, which depends on the race bringing in thousands of visitors every year in the month of October. West Hawaii Today.

2020 IRONMAN World Championship In Kona Postponed Due To COVID-19. The World Championship has been rescheduled for February 6, 2021, but the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship has also been postponed with no date option determined. Big Island Video News.

IRONMAN Postpones World Championship Until February. For the first time in years, Kailua-Kona won’t host the IRONMAN World Championship in October. Big Island Now.

Maui

Home delivery, takeout of liquor is approved. Despite the majority of community testimony opposing takeout and home delivery for alcoholic drinks, the county Liquor Control Commission unanimously approved the measures during its meeting Wednesday in a boost for floundering restaurant owners. Maui News.

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COVID-19 forces cancellation of Maui Fair. The 98th Maui Fair has been postponed till next year due to concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, according to fair officials and Mayor Michael Victorino. Maui News.

Organizers agree to cancel Maui Fair at county’s request, just 5th time in history. Organizers today announced the 98th Maui Fair that was set for Oct. 1 to 4 has been called off at the request of the county due to the large crowds it attracts. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Fair CANCELED at Request of County Amid COVID-19 Health Concerns. The 98th Maui Fair, which was scheduled to take place over four days in October, is cancelled for this year due to public health concerns. Maui Now.

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$5.1B CIP budget focuses on projects that are ready to go. A Senate committee agreed Wednesday on a $5.1 billion capital improvement project budget that includes funding for Kaanapali Beach restoration, the widening of Puunene Avenue and other Maui County projects. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i temprarily adds hunting days for COVID19 response. Kaua‘i hunters are invited to apply for special use permits to hunt goats, pigs, and deer on closed hunting days in State Forest Reserves, Natural Area Reserves, and Game Management Areas. Garden Island.

Suicides Of 4 Young Men In A Week Raise Alarm On Kauai. On Kauai, suicide is an old problem. But it’s gaining new urgency as the island grapples with a spate of tragic deaths during the coronavirus pandemic. Civil Beat.

Three counties impose nighttime curfews, face masks to be required at Foodland, inmate release to be case-by-case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki at night ©2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved

Oahu, Maui to enforce stay-at-home order with nighttime curfew over Easter weekend. Both the City and County of Honolulu along with Maui County have announced a nighttime curfew for the three-day Easter weekend, saying the order is aimed at keeping people in their homes and off the roads. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu police will enforce a nighttime curfew this weekend in a move intended to stem the spread of the coronavirus epidemic. Shortly after Caldwell’s announcement, Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said Maui would also enforce an 11 p.m.-to-5 a.m. curfew Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Kauai on March 18 was the first county to issue a curfew. The Kauai curfew is from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily and runs until May 3. Star-Advertiser.

Nighttime ‘No Driving’ Rules To Be In Place On Oahu Over Easter Weekend. The Honolulu Police Department also intends to step up enforcement of beach closures. Civil Beat.


The city has instituted a nighttime curfew for Easter weekend. Here’s how it works. The city’s series of emergency orders aimed at stopping the spread of coronavirus now includes a nighttime curfew. Hawaii News Now.

No-driving curfew on O'ahu to take effect this weekend. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced a pilot program curfew that will take place each day this weekend starting Friday from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., Saturday from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and Sunday from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. KITV4.

Oahu under trial curfew this Easter weekend. The City announced that a holiday weekend pilot curfew will take place on April 10 at 11 p.m. The hours of the curfew will be between 11 p.m. through 5 a.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. KHON2.

Maui County to roll out curfew pilot program Friday night. Maui County plans to roll out a nighttime curfew pilot program and stricter rules starting Friday night, Mayor Michael Victorino announced Thursday evening. Maui News.

Mayor Michael Victorino announces curfew for Maui County among other rules to curb spread of coronavirus. Victorino said the curfew pilot program will start at 11 p.m. Friday night for the county. The curfew lasts from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. but would exempt travel for urgent medication, medical emergencies or essential business. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County Night-Time Curfew Pilot Program and Stricter Rules to Start Friday. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino announced a night-time curfew pilot program will start at 11 p.m. Friday night, April 10, for Maui County. Curfew will be from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Maui Now.

Overnight curfew pilot program and stricter rules to start Friday night in Maui County. Mayor Michael Victorino announced a night-time curfew pilot program will start at 11 p.m. Friday night, April 10, for Maui County. KITV4.

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Come Monday, you’ll need to be wearing a face mask to enter Foodland stores. Foodland is implementing new policies to continue keeping their customers and employees safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Stores like Foodland, Down to Earth implementing changes to grocery shopping. Starting Monday, Foodland will require employees and customers to wear a mask when shopping. KHON2.

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Hotels for Heroes program criticized for turning many of those heroes away. Just days after the Hotels for Heroes program launched, first responders and medical workers are calling it confusing and too restrictive. The program, a partnership with the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Authority, the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Visitors and Convention Bureau, was touted as providing hotel rooms for those on the front lines. Hawaii News Now.

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More help on the way to assist unemployment claims. The number of people filing for unemployment on a daily basis is starting to slow down, but many people still haven’t seen any money. KHON2.

Hawaii officials cannot say when state unemployment checks will include extra $600 federal payments. State officials cannot say how soon Hawaii’s unemployed workers will receive an extra $600 a week in federally promised benefits because they still haven’t been able to automate the state system to add the extra money to unemployment checks for workers who lost their jobs in the coronavirus pandemic, lawmakers were told Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii jobless claims soar, state labor official admits system overloaded. The official in charge of the department responsible for processing and paying unemployment claims told a state Senate committee Thursday that an obsolete computer system unable to deal with a crush of claims and calls because of the COVID-19 pandemic is causing delays in many claimants getting paid. Tribune-Herald.

Problems for thousands of newly unemployed shift from filing claims to getting paid. The number of new unemployment claims has dropped for several days in a row, in a sign that layoffs in Hawaii may be stabilizing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii to use idle state workers to process unemployment claims. The state has received 201,836 unemployment claims since the beginning of March through Tuesday, when 6,903 claims were filed. KITV4.

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Hawaii visitors slip in despite COVID-19 crackdowns. Tens of thousands of visitors are no longer coming to Hawaii each day, but hundreds are — and even that’s too many for some residents and government officials who are working to stem the spread of COVID-19. Tens of thousands of visitors are no longer coming to Hawaii each day, but hundreds are — and even that’s too many for some residents and government officials who are working to stem the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Residents and Lawmakers Decry Lack of 14-Day Quarantine Monitoring. The normally rapid flow of travelers to Hawai‘i has dropped to a comparative trickle in the wake of the state’s 14-day, mandatory self-quarantine, enacted March 26. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii public schools to remain closed until state goes 4 weeks without new COVID-19 cases. Hawaii’s public schools are expected to stay shut until COVID-19 is no longer spreading in the community, defined as four weeks with no new cases, according to the Department of Education. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Schools Unlikely To Open Again This School Year. State education officials want to see a lengthy period without any new coronavirus cases reported before they’ll feel comfortable bringing kids and teachers back together. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Reports 7 New COVID-19 Cases, Taking The Total To 442. Hawaii verified seven new coronavirus cases on Thursday. Civil Beat.

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Report recommends case-by-case decisions on release of Hawaii inmates. The independent special master assigned to study overcrowding at state correctional facilities in the face of the coronavirus pandemic is recommending that each case needs to be considered individually on who should be released — angering critics who say the process will be too slow. Star-Advertiser.

Special Master Recommends No Blanket Release Of Hawaii Inmates. Special Master Dan Foley filed an interim report with the Supreme Court Thursday saying the process should involve judges. Civil Beat.

Inmate release is ‘a work in progress’. Testifying before the Senate Special Committee on COVID-19, Daniel R. Foley said the process, ordered by the high court following a petition by the Office of the Public Defender, is going more smoothly on the neighbor islands than on Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

Lt. Gov. Green Shares Thoughts On Prison Inmate Releases. The day after Lt. Gov. Green spoke to the Senate Committee on COVID-19, the state announced 85 inmates in Hilo are under quarantine as a precaution. Big Island Video News.

Jail populations decline statewide, in part due to coronavirus. Hawaii’s jail inmate population is on the way down, but not because of a mass release that had been requested by the state Office of the Public Defender. Instead, it’s because fewer people are getting arrested. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s Senior Care Facilities Scramble To Prepare For COVID-19 Spread. Protective gear is in short supply and in-house testing is rare for caretakers and the elderly in nursing homes, adult residential homes and assisted living homes. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell rejects planned pay raises, opposite of what cabinet members said a week ago. Mayor Kirk Caldwell today asked the Honolulu Salary Commission to not recommend pay raises for himself or other top city officials, a 180-degree switch from comments three of his cabinet members made a week ago. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor declining pay raise for City officials. Mayor Kirk Caldwell is asking the Salary Commission to not recommend any pay raises for City officials and department heads this year, due to the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. KHON2.

Coronavirus pandemic threatens to delay opening date for Honolulu rail line. The opening date for Honolulu’s rail line from Kapolei to Ala Moana that is planned for December 2025 might now be delayed in a new bit of fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Organizations assemble 4,000 face masks for essential workers. Dozens of volunteers converged in conference rooms at the Neal Blaisdell Center to assemble personal protective equipment for Hawaii’s medical professionals and others on the front lines to aid in the battle to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Magic Island parking lot to undergo extensive reconstruction. With City parks closed and essential construction activity continuing amidst the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, the City will begin an extensive reconstruction project to revitalize the badly degraded parking lot at ‘Āina Moana (Magic Island) on Monday, April 13. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Mayor: Hawaii County parks to remain closed. Mayor Harry Kim acknowledged earlier this week that the county’s handling of its parks has led to mixed messages during the early weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown. Tribune-Herald.

County Council fast-tracks food money to community nonprofits. County Council members are fast-tracking money to two local nonprofits to combat hunger on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Police Say Man Threatened Them With COVID-19, Coughed In Their Face. Police arrested and charged a 53 year-old Hilo man for several offenses including allegedly threatening police with the COVID-19 virus. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Ripple effects among community after coronavirus cluster at Maui hospital. There is rising anxiety on Maui as the island's largest hospital deals with a cluster of coronavirus cases. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Health CEO Explains Mask Policy at Hospital and Efforts to Ensure Safety at the Facility. We ask about the hospital’s policy on masks for health care workers, as well as the current state of supplies and equipment for the Maui facility. Maui Now.

Hospital policies questioned after employees are infected. Staff wonder if wearing masks and changing policy sooner could’ve reduced exposure. Maui News.

Changes implemented at a Maui hospital after coronavirus cluster. Maui Memorial Medical Center is now screening and requiring masks for everyone who enters the building after a cluster of 15 coronavirus cases — which is blamed partly on a lack of protective equipment. Hawaii News Now.

Another Maui resident violates emergency rules. A Haiku man was sentenced to a two-day jail term Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to violating public health emergency rules and drunken driving. Maui News.

Kauai

Domestic violence calls up. Domestic-violence-related calls are up about 15%, according to the Kaua‘i Police Department. Garden Island.

Lihu‘e food pickup a success. There is a need for food,” said Wes Perreira, manager of the Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i branch Thursday during the free food drive-through pickup at Lili‘uokalani Trust in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Path closed for repairs. County workers are making moves to clean up Lydgate Park after recent rains caused sewage spills and added runoff to increasing coastal erosion problems in the area, triggering major instabilities in the walking path that goes through the park. Garden Island.

How to pay for teacher raises? Plus, Honolulu paid indicted police chief $250k to leave and now it's suing for its money back. Lots more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii classroom PC:Hawaii Department of Education

DOE Faces More Tough Questions Over How It Will Pay For Teacher Raises. Education officials began providing $10 million in incentives for special ed and rural teachers without a guarantee the Hawaii Legislature will fund the pay increases in the future. Civil Beat.

Veteran public school teachers could get a big one-time salary increase. Public school teachers with more than 10 years of experience could get a one-time salary boost in the coming school year — if the state comes up with the money. Hawaii News Now.

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A new measure introduced in the Hawaii State House of Representatives could put an end to HI-5 recycling. Rep. Roy Takumi, who introduced the measure, created it after hearing from older constituents about the difficulties of transporting recyclables. KHON2.

Visitor drownings are up, bill aims to aid prevention. A new proposal is hoping to save lives by requiring stricter regulations and more training for crews on tour boats. KHON2.

New Prison Oversight Commission Has A Full Plate. Off to a slow start, the new commissioners say they want to take a wide-ranging look at the entire criminal justice system. Civil Beat.

Now that the conflict at Mauna Kea is in a temporary truce, Native Hawaiians are turning their attention to politics. Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope say they want more Hawaiians voting and in office. Hawaii News Now.

As climate change takes hold, the tropics will get warmer faster. Global warming is often thought of as, well, a global phenomenon. But the world is actually warming at different rates ― and new research from a University of Hawaii professor is helping shed light on why. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

City sues former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha for severance pay. City attorneys this week filed a lawsuit against former Police Chief Louis Kealoha seeking return of $250,000 in taxpayer money that he received as a severance payment when he retired from the Honolulu Police Department in March 2017. Star-Advertiser.

City sues disgraced ex-police chief in bid to recoup $250,000 payout. In January 2017, taxpayers paid the $250,000 for him to retire while under investigation by the FBI for public corruption. Hawaii News Now.

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127 Homeless People Died On Oahu Last Year, Up From 2018. The figure is also a 46% increase from just two years ago. Civil Beat.

Deaths of homeless people continue to climb on Oahu. Some 127 homeless people on Oahu died last year, seven more than in 2018, the city announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Oʻahu Homeless Deaths Increasing, Up 46% In Two Years. Honolulu's acting chief medical examiner says 127 people considered homeless died on Oʻahu in 2019, up from two years ago. Hawaii Public Radio.

City: Those who died on Oahu streets last year ranged in age from 19 to 88. Some 127 homeless people died on Oahu streets last year, according to a new analysis from the city Medical Examiner. Hawaii News Now.

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In face of opposition, BOE shelves plans to move Kaahumanu Elementary. The state Board of Education Thursday rejected a proposal to move the school from Kinau Street to new facilities that would be built on the 46-acre campus of nearby McKinley High School. Hawaii News Now.

Board of Education nixes moving Ka‘ahumanu School, advances Kaimuki High redevelopment plan. A proposal to redevelop Kaimuki High School’s campus is advancing, but the Board of Education on Thursday torpedoed the idea of moving Queen Ka‘ahumanu School to free up that campus for development. Star-Advertiser.

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Rediscovery of WWII bomber off Oahu raises hopes for recovery of remains. Crystal clear video shows new images of a World War II aircraft sitting on the ocean floor about three miles off Oahu’s Kaneohe coast. Hawaii News Now.

Society of Professional Journalists in Hawaii looking for summer interns. Selected applicants will be placed in a print, online or broadcast media organization in Honolulu, where they will work full-time for 10 weeks during the summer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County fast-track land buy raises questions. A fast-tracked bill to buy land owned by a distant relative of Puna Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz is raising questions after her relationship was disclosed when the County Council was asked to approve a $1.45 million appropriation for the purchase and construction of a bus depot there. West Hawaii Today.

An over-the-counter medicine may be able to prevent rat lungworm disease. The typical rainy weather in Hilo becomes a hot spot for slugs and snails, a carrier of rat lungworm disease, a parasite that affects the brain and spinal cord in humans. KITV.

After Rat Lungworm Conference, HMC Updates Treatment Protocol. Hilo Medical Center is announcing an update on early treatment protocol for Rat Lungworm following the international conference held in last week. Big Island Video News.

Holei Sea Arch Closed After Cracks Observed. The short trail from the end of Chain of Craters Road to the sea arch overlook is closed and roped off, officials say. Big Island Video News.

Cracks shutter Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s Holei Sea Arch overlook. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park this afternoon announced the closure of the Holei Sea Arch overlook until further notice due to new cracks and instability observed on the coastal cliffs. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui Mayor, Seeking GET Tax Surcharge, Apologizes For Missed Deadline. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is asking the state Legislature to extend a deadline that will allow the county to impose a general excise tax surcharge on business activities such as sales of products. Hawaii Public Radio.

Community Meeting on Wailuku Town Improvements, Jan. 29. Wailuku Town Improvements will be the subject of a community meeting hosted by the County of Maui Department of Management, schedule to take place on Wednesday, Jan. 29, from 5 to 6 p.m. at ʻĪao Theater. Maui Now.

Chick-fil-A coming to Maui. Early plans point to Kahului location. The Chick-fil-A franchise is flocking to the Aloha State, with plans in the works for a future Maui location, its second in Hawaii. Maui News.

Chick-fil-A is Coming to Hawai‘i, Eyes Kahului Location. Chick-fil-A is coming to Hawaiʻi with a potential site at the Puʻunēnē Shopping Center in Kahului on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Tax hike proposed for part-time TVRs. A bill that would increase the property taxes of Kauai residents who rent out their homes for part of the year was met with opposition from some Kauai community members on Thursday. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi Recycling Buffeted By Global Market Prices, Solutions Won't Be Easy. Allison Fraley, Kauaʻi County’s solid waste program coordinator, said the island is not alone in dealing with an overseas market where prices are falling and buyers are choosy. Hawaii Public Radio.

Public Safety Director Espinda confirmed, no budget surplus tax refunds this year, Maui may withdraw injection well appeal, Kauai officials get raises, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda, courtesy photo

Hawaii Senate reconfirms Public Safety Department leader Nolan Espinda. Nolan Espinda was confirmed by the Senate to lead Hawaii’s Department of Public Safety for another four years, but he will do so amid numerous internal and external investigations into a recent riot at the Maui jail that took more than three hours to contain, and the fatal shootings of an Oahu jail inmate and homeless man outside the state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Senate voted 17-8 on Wednesday to reconfirm Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda for another term. The Senate’s vote came after a tumultuous couple of months for Espinda and his department. Civil Beat.

State Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda was confirmed by the Hawaii Senate Wednesday after critical remarks by several of his opponents. Hawaii Public Radio.

After intense debate, senators vote to reconfirm embattled Public Safety head. Hawaii News Now.

Senate votes to reconfirm Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda. KHON2.

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Lawmakers decline to issue budget surplus refunds. State lawmakers have decided to make a modest $5 million deposit into the state’s “rainy day” budget reserve fund instead of issuing taxpayer refunds from the state budget surplus this year. Star-Advertiser.

Supporters, critics of $15 minimum wage make last-minute appeals to lawmakers. The deadline to raising Hawaii’s minimum wage is getting closer and both sides of the debate have strong opinions on the issue. Hawaii News Now.

State To Housing Applicants: Sign Up Online Or Lose Your Spot On Wait List. Nearly 14,000 applicants for public housing in Hawaii must sign up online or risk losing their spot in line for one of about 6,100 federal and state-subsidized low-income housing units. Civil Beat.

Members of AARP urged Hawaii lawmakers to save a bill that would help residents save for retirement. They rallied outside the capitol Wednesday hoping to push Senate Bill 1374, which would create a "Hawaii Saves Retirement Savings Program." KITV.

Lost Your Firearm? You Have To Report It. Hawaii’s governor signed the enabling legislation into law Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Attorney general investigates use of illegal GPS jammers by DOCARE officers. The state Attorney General’s Office is investigating the use of illegal GPS jammers by state conservation officers. Hawaii News Now.

Are Medical Costs Dropping Under HMSA's New Doctor Payment Plan? HMSA now pre-pays primary care doctors with a capped amount per patient. The new system has been in place for two years, and the jury is still out on whether it's met its goal of lowering medical costs and improving the quality of care. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu leads state in population loss, Census finds. Honolulu was the biggest population loser over the eight-year period, having posted a net loss of more than 61,700 residents from domestic migration — residents leaving Oahu for other U.S. counties versus newcomers arriving. Star-Advertiser.

A Nonprofit Honolulu Rehab Center Mixes Taxpayer Support With Lavish Pay. The executive director of the nonprofit Sand Island Treatment Center has been paid as much as $500,000 a year — and many counselors make over $100,000 — far in excess of their peers in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Residents run into red tape in push to tackle squatters’ village in Kalihi Valley. Homeless squatters have built a new village in Kalihi Valley, and the city says they can’t evict them. Hawaii News Now.

Lawsuit filed raises allegations of conspiracy and abuse against HPD and several officers. KHON2.

Public input still open for "Oahu's First Pedestrian Plan". The City and County of Honolulu wants to improve pedestrian safety by creating "Oahu's First Pedestrian Plan" to update streets. It's currently taking public feedback of pedestrian areas that need additional safety measures. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

DLNR Chair Gives Pohakuloa, Mauna Kea, TMT Update. During the nomination hearing before the Senate Water & Land Committee, Sen. Kai Kahele asked DLNR chair Suzanne Case for an update on the hot-button land management issues. Big Island Video News.

Council approves software upgrade. The County Council approved a three-year, $320,000 software license Wednesday that the administration said will fix the problem holding up the county’s $2.3 million building permit system as well as improve geographic information systems at the Civil Defense Agency, Mass Transit Agency and other county departments. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. Ige Releases $1.9M for New Waikoloa Public Library. Ige released $1.9 million in Capital Improvement Project funds on Wednesday, April 24, 2019, to buy a 1.750-acre parcel for a new Waikoloa Public Library. Big Island Now.

Maui

Council looks to have final say over injection wells settlement. Chairwoman King wants to see county withdraw appeal from US Supreme Court. Maui News.

Tsuhako approved as housing director. Lori Tsuhako was unanimously approved as director of Housing and Human Concerns on Tuesday by the Maui County Council. Maui News.

Kauai

Raises get green light. Raises for some county officials and employees were approved Wednesday. Garden Island.

Homeless camp cleared. In what is the start of an islandwide homeless encampment sweep, government agencies began removing unauthorized property and persons on a parcel of state land along Rice Street Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

Research rockets launched from PMRF. The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration and Sandia National Laboratories launched two research rockets this week from the Pacific Missile Range Facility. Garden Island.

Long lines, limited parking expected as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopens Saturday, 15% of Hawaii young men not registered with Selective Service, Hawaii County scales down special session emergency fund request, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Map of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopening plan

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on track to open Saturday at 10 a.m., with free admission on that day, the National Park Service said today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park preps for reopening. While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopens Saturday, visitors might find it hard to park. Tribune-Herald.

The reopening of areas in the park, which go into effect by 10:00 a.m. on September 22, are listed in a new map published by the National Park Service. Big Island Video News.

This Saturday will mark a new beginning for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. More than 130 days since explosions, ash plumes and earthquakes forced it to close, the park is set to reopen. KITV.

HVNP Reopening, Expect Limited Parking & Long Lines. Big Island Now.

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State Department of Education Proposes Increases For Executive-Level Salaries. The proposed raises would be at slightly lower percentages than DOE employees represented by unions. Overall, the executive-level increases would shift the salary range for complex area superintendents to $135,000-$170,000 from $125,000-$163,589. Pay for the seven assistant superintendents would increase to $145,000-$175,000 from $143,023-$167,353. The annual salary for the deputy superintendent — who is second in command to the school superintendent — would increase to a range of $155,000-$180,000 from $143,023-$167,353. Civil Beat.

Hawaii income stats climb, but so does the cost of living. Hawaii household and family incomes rose again last year to remain among the highest in the nation, according to the latest information from the U.S. Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

Fifteen percent of Hawaii’s young men aren't registered with the U.S. Selective Service System, which means they might not be eligible for major federal benefits. Hawaii News Now.

Innovative New Program Plugs Some Holes In Mental Health Care System. A new network of providers and social workers is teaming up to get mental health patients the treatment they need. Civil Beat.

Chairman’s Death Comes At Crucial Time For Pacific Fishery Council. Edwin Ebisui was among the leaders pushing the Trump administration to reopen restricted waters to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

Several Hawaii banks are enacting financial assistance programs for customers impacted by the heavy rains and flooding brought on by Tropical Storm Olivia last week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Tax-Free Trust named Cathy Luke and Randy Perreira to its board in anticipation of the retirement of current trustees Richard Humphreys and Russell Okata. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Rail transit: Town-bound tension piles up. Some business operators and residents who attended a Monday night briefing on the arrival of rail construction in the Kalihi-­to-Ala Moana region left feeling anxious about the future. Star-Advertiser.

Water utility offers breaks for affordable housing builders. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply has agreed to offer those who build affordable housing units on Oahu a break on BWS charges in an effort to spur construction. Star-Advertiser.

New proposal could pave the way for more restricted parking zones in Honolulu. It would require residents living in the area to have a placard proving they live there. The bill specifically mentions areas near universities and hospitals. KHON2.

Two new projects geared at pedestrians are heading to the Waikiki and Ala Moana areas. Recently revived plans to build a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Ala Wai Canal, linking Waikiki to McCully, are moving forward. KHON2.

Waimanalo residents concerned about pollution of Kaupo Beach. A homeless encampment tucked away downhill on the makai side of Kalanianaole Highway is causing some in the Waimanalo community to push for action. KITV.

Waikiki Shell officially named after concert promoter Tom Moffatt. A special renaming ceremony was held Sunday at the venue, where the beloved local personality and concert promoter known simply as "Uncle Tom" put on a host of big shows. Hawaii News Now.

Koko Nuts Koalition: We Will Help Repair Koko Head Trail. The City and County of Honolulu is considering ways to develop partnerships to refurbish and maintain the iconic Koko Head Trail. Hawaii Public Radio.

A rental housing tower in downtown Kapolei for seniors with low incomes is set to start construction after several years of planning. Star-Advertiser.

Two Oahu neighborhoods with single-family home median prices below the record islandwide median of $810,000 saw increases in sales of more than 25 percent in August, according to a report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Based on feedback from lawmakers, county scales down lava recovery wish list. A decision on a whether there will be a special session of the state Legislature to consider disaster relief funding appropriation, especially for Puna communities impacted by lava from Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone eruption, needs to be made soon. Tribune-Herald.

The group of Hawaii Island residents standing post at the entrance to Mauna Kea Access Road are on the verge of being kicked out. KITV.

Beneficiaries spoke out about the problems plaguing the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands during a community meeting held Monday night in Keaukaha. Big Island Video News.

Pohoiki Boat Ramp Could Be Used Again. The Hawaii Department of Land and Resources reports that a damage assessment of the formerly popular Pohoiki Boat Ramp area, along the lower Puna coast, shows no damage to the ramp itself. However, an estimated 14,000 cubic yards of black sand, deposited during the recent East Rift Zone eruption, completely rings and blocks the entrance to the small boat ramp. Big Island Now.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources has produced a video update on two, transformed Puna beach parks following the eruption of Kilauea. Big Island Video News.

A village of tiny homes — built by the community — welcomes first lava evacuees. Several Puna families who have spent months living in an eruption evacuee shelter moved into places of their own on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Pahoa shelter closes leaving legacy of help, complaints. Pahoa’s emergency evacuation center opened in a hurry at 4:15 p.m. May 3 and over the next 136 days offered a lifeline to people forced from their homes by the Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Council to discuss call for audit of DOE. Resolution part of opposition to proposed school property tax ballot amendment. Maui News.

Last ex-officer in bribery scheme sentenced. Unlike other defendants, Ahuna does not receive jail time. Maui News.

The US Department of Health and Human Services will award $1,000,000 in federal funding to Maui Family Support Services to support the Quality Care for Hawaiian Keiki Project. Maui Now.

Why your television isn't getting a signal on Maui. We're told a special fiber cable that provides OTA transmission to Maui is no longer functioning. The line feeds all of the broadcasters transmitters on Maui.  KHON2.

Masons add another course of cinderblocks to the South Maui Community Park Recreation Center earlier this month. The 34,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to be finished by the end of next March. Maui News.

Maui County currently has a shortage of 141 doctors, up slightly from the 139 in 2017, according to a recent Hawaii physician workforce survey by the University of Hawaii. Maui News.

A Brown Water Advisory has been issued for waters from Waihee to Kahului in Central Maui and Honokohau to the Honua Kai property in West Maui. Maui Now.

Old Makena Hotel coming down piece by piece. Maui News.

Kauai

Teachers’ union stands behind amendment. In November’s general election, voters will consider a constitutional amendment that would give the Legislature the authority to establish a surcharge on investment real property to support public education. Garden Island.

A meeting of County of Kauai committees is set for 8:30 a.m. today. Garden Island.

Kauai is gearing up to build the next double-hulled voyaging canoe on Hawaii and now the organization heading up the project has five acres in Kalihiwai to do it. Garden Island.