Honolulu rethinks security for its marathon following Boston bombing, PLDC repeal heads to governor, Hanabusa, Gabbard report contributions, UH outlines its impact, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii public lands (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii House voted unanimously Monday to get rid of the highly disliked Public Land Development Corp., ending legislative debate on the agency that sparked a groundswell of public protest because of its broad power to develop state land. Associated Press.

The state House voted unanimously Monday for a bill to repeal the Public Land Development Corp., undoing a law that will likely be remembered at the state Capitol as a cautionary tale of government hubris. Star-Advertiser.

Legislation described by some supporters as "the cornerstone to increasing transparency in government" is nudging toward approval by Hawaii lawmakers. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa raised $229,000 in the first three months of 2013. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, elected last year to her first term in District 2 representing rural Oahu and the neighbor islands, raised $84,000 in the first quarter. Star-Advertiser.

If Rep. Colleen Hanabusa does take on Sen. Brian Schatz for the late Daniel Inouye’s U.S. Senate seat, she’s already nearly $1 million behind. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are taking small steps toward shaping the state’s multi-billion-dollar biennial budget. Associated Press.

A large university in a small state, the University of Hawaii occupies a central role in Hawaii's society and culture. But what is its economic impact? Can it be expressed in dollars? Yes, a new study says, and it's billions.Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii system produced an estimated $3.61 billion in economic benefits for the state last year, including the ripple effects from university-generated spending, according to a report released today by a group of UH economists. Star-Advertiser.

On paper, tuition for the typical local undergraduate student enrolled in the University of Hawaii at Manoa next year will run around $9,100. But here's the caveat: students must also fork over $760 in additional fees, effectively raising students' bills an additional 8 percent. Civil Beat.

A judge has ruled a Hawaii bed and breakfast violated the law when two women were denied a room because they're gay. KITV4.

Although a bill to label GMOs in food has died in the state Legislature, Earthjustice attorney Paul Achitoff says he’s happy that the measure got as far as it did. Honolulu Weekly.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is awarding $1.4 million in grants to support cultural and natural resource programs run by 40 groups across the state. Associated Press.
http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/203209501.html?id=203209501

State roundup for April 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

A weeks-long jury selection process opened Monday for State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's trial on a charge of murdering a Kailua man in a 2011 Waikiki shooting. Star-Advertiser.

A U.S. special agent standing trial for killing a Kailua man in a Waikiki McDonald's appears to be raising his defense fund through a crowdfunding campaign, similar to those launched by aspiring filmmakers, activists and entrepreneurs who need a financial nudge to get their projects off the ground. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Marathon officials said they will look more closely at security measures to prevent explosions in the wake of Monday's deadly blasts at the Boston Marathon. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Marathon officials said Monday it is too early to say whether the explosions that rocked the finish line of the Boston Marathon, killing two and injuring dozens of others, will affect the Hawaii race scheduled for Dec. 8. Pacific Business News.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell delivered the first quarterly report Monday on what he hopes will be an unprecedented push to repair Honolulu's crumbling roads. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu announced it is on track to restore roads over the next 5 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

The breathtaking ocean vistas of Waikiki surf, iconic Diamond Head and historic points in between could soon become part of a national program that showcases roads that have a story to tell. Star-Advertiser.

Drivers on Kuaoa Street are seeing a crooked center line. The construction company that repaved the road says it’s just a temporary fix until the asphalt cures. KHON2.

Hawaii

A rough draft of several reports to be included in the Ka‘u Community Development plan, reviewed last week by the plan Steering Committee, offers insights into how district residents see themselves and what their vision is for the region’s future. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor’s Proposed Budget Includes Infrastructure Spending, Tax and Fee Increases. Maui Weekly.

The founder and owner of the Maui-made Ocean Vodka will be opening up a new production facility in Kula next week for the public to tour and see. Maui News.

Kauai

Police officers stationed in Waimea will soon get a new roof. The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday unanimously approved an eight-year lease at Waimea Dispensary for the Kaua‘i Police Department starting May 1. Garden Island.

Hawaii flunks online transparency, Hawaiian art gets more attention following lawmaker's racist comments, 'Haolenesian' brand name born, Honolulu parks official got preferential treatment, no new council districts for Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii government website http://stayconnected.hawaii.gov/

Hawaii was given an F in a new study on how well states stack up in providing online access to government spending data. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii received an “F” when it comes to government spending transparency, according to “Following the Money 2013: How the States Rank on Providing Online Access to Government Spending Data,” the fourth annual report of its kind by the U.S. PIRG Education Fund. Civil Beat.

If Gov. Neil Abercrombie were sitting in a classroom with the other 49 state governors, he would be among the bottom-three students regarding grades on online transparency of government spending, according to a report by U.S. PIRG Education Fund, a nonprofit organization that works to protect consumers and promote good government. Garden Island.

Should legislators be barred from holding fundraising events or soliciting money from lobbyists and interest groups while the Legislature is in session? Civil Beat.

A grudge by some legislators against the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts may still be on even after state Rep. Faye Hano­hano's apology for her racially abusive threats to SFCA staff for placing works by non-Native Hawaiian artists in her office. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers say they’re “cautiously optimistic” that the Hawaii Department of Education is moving in the right direction to rein in school bus costs and overhaul management of the branch so that it’s more efficient and accountable to the public. Civil Beat.

Three frequent visitors to Hawaii who are considering starting a business here want to trademark “Haolenesians” for the purpose of selling apparel bearing that name. Pacific Business News.

Even though State Civil Defense has not received any kind of alert about a potential threat from North Korea, Hawaii does have a plan in place. KHON2.

State roundup for March 27. Associated Press.

Oahu

A Transportation Security Administration manager fired from Honolulu International Airport has been reinstated, the fourth TSA manager to win a settlement or successfully challenge his firing after a baggage-checking scandal that resulted in the termination of 36 TSA employees. Hawaii News Now.

An Ethics Commission advisory opinion said that on at least 10 occasions over a one-year period in 2011-2012,  former Deputy Parks Director Albert Tufono sent emails to Parks Department recreation directors seeking permits to reserve city gyms and ballfields for teams and leagues that he coached, teams his sons played on and a hula halau in which his daughter was a student. Star-Advertiser.

A survey done late last fall found that 72.8 percent of District 2's roads were in "fair" condition or better. That's just about on par with the 72.2 percent of city roads islandwide that were in fair shape or better.Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

After West Hawaii Today questioned him about it Monday, Puna Councilman Zendo Kern said he is canceling a $500- to $1,000-per-person fundraiser planned for today in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

The kahu of a collection of North Kona churches is hoping state and county officials pay millions for what he claims is years of unauthorized use of church property. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association on Tuesday announced plans to build a new office building in Keaau. Tribune-Herald.

After nearly three decades of planning, lawsuits, Supreme Court action, community activism, bankruptcy, foreclosure, discussion and, finally, agreement, the development of Kohanaiki is nearing fruition. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A few Maui teachers willing to speak on the record Monday about a tentative contract agreement with the state were positive but cautious. Maui News.

Wanting to lay a solid foundation for Maui County in years to come, Mayor Alan Arakawa unveiled his 2013-14 budget request Monday with a wish list of more than $105 million for infrastructure and facility improvement projects. Maui News.

A stakeholder meeting is scheduled for this week to discuss the proposed Central Maui Regional Park. Maui Now.

Kauai

On Monday, the Kaua‘i Charter Review Commission — in a 5-1 vote — tabled a proposal to divide county council seats into different districts. Garden Island.

The Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge will be closed for the third and final phase of the Kilauea Lighthouse restoration, starting Sunday and lasting a whole week, according to a press release from the Kaua‘i National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Garden Island.

Hawaii Senate downgrades gay marriage bills, teachers union to vote on new contract, state asks federal judge to overturn Hawaii County aerial hunting ban, Maui mayor pitches $573.6M budget, no bail in Chinese spy case, North Korea targets Hawaii, hikers want Oahu trail opened, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay rights rally

A state Senate committee Monday approved resolutions requesting a task force study the social, economic and religious consequences of enacting marriage equality legislation in Hawaii as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear two landmark same-sex marriage cases. Star-Advertiser.

Two Senate resolutions call for a task force to study the social, economic and religious impacts that enacting "marriage equality" would have in Hawaii. The resolutions — Senate Resolution 123 and Senate Concurrent Resolution 166 — passed Senate Judiciary and Labor and now await a hearing in Ways and Means. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Senate Ways and Means Committee is mulling whether to fund Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s proposed innovation initiative. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers pounding out the state’s $12 billion biennium operating budget can only estimate how much money a dozen new union contract agreements will cost taxpayers over the next few years. Civil Beat.

If public school teachers ratify a proposed labor deal reached over the weekend, the teachers union has pledged to withdraw its complaint against the state over the "last, best and final offer" imposed on teachers in 2011. Star-Advertiser.

A 100-page document lays out the nuts and bolts of the tentative contract between the state and the Hawaii State Teachers Association. If it is ratified, the four-year deal goes into effect July 1. Hawaii News Now.

It’s a battle that dragged on for nearly two years. Now, a proposed new contract goes to public school teachers for approval. The deal gives them better pay and a better deal on health benefits. KHON2.

A Senate Concurrent Resolution introduced March 13 is requesting the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority work with airline companies to show ocean-safety videos on all Hawai‘i-bound flights. Garden Island.

As Congress appears close to taking up immigration reform in a couple of weeks, some activists and lawmakers including Sen. Mazie Hirono are growing concerned the latest proposal will only exacerbate the problems that kept families like Emilio Arbues' apart for 20 years. Civil Beat.

Strategic rocket and select artillery units in North Korea have been ordered by Pyongyang to be combat ready, with targets including bases in Hawaii and the Mainland United States. Pacific Business News.

North Korea's military warned today that its artillery and rocket forces are at their highest-level combat posture in the latest in a string of bellicose threats aimed at South Korea and the United States. Associated Press.

The Price of Food in Hawai'i. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for March 26. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former city Deputy Parks Director Albert Tufono was slapped with a $2,000 fine by the Honolulu Ethics Commission for using his position to obtain preferential treatment from other parks employees, even after he was warned to stop doing so. Star-Advertiser.

Key members of Mayor Kirk Caldwell's Cabinet say they intend to provide by May 1 a rough draft of an action plan to deal with homelessness on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Members of the City Council and Mayor Kirk Caldwell's administration promised to try again to come up with a plan for the Haiku Stairs that would appease both hikers and Kaneohe residents who say they're tired of unruly visitors and other trespassers. Star-Advertiser.

It's one of the most popular yet forbidden trails on Oahu. Today, there's a new push to open Kaneohe's Stairway to Heaven to the public. Hawaii News Now.

A city survey done last fall found that Council District 1 had the third-highest percentage of roads that were "fair" or better, at 77.2 percent. That compares with 72.2 percent of city roads in fair shape or better islandwide. Star-Advertiser.

The City of Honolulu has been criticized for its failing road conditions. Some accuse the city of cutting corners on materials and cost. City administrators say that's not the case. Hawaii News Now.

Last weekend, local bus riders saw the first of several city-approved reversals to service cuts go into effect. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge denied bail Monday to a civilian defense contractor accused of giving military secrets to a Chinese girlfriend half his age, saying he poses a danger to national security. Associated Press.

The 921-foot cruise ship Pride of America is in the Pearl Harbor shipyard for two weeks for more than $30 million in renovation work, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is asking a federal judge to overturn a Hawaii County ordinance banning aerial hunting, at least when it’s conducted by the state or its contractors. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii has issued a notice of award to F&H Construction for the Palamanui campus construction project. West Hawaii Today.

According to a recent report by the state, the number of cattle raised in Hawaii decreased steadily for about thirty years, starting in 1970. There’s been a bit of an increase since about 2002, and today cattle are raised on each of the major islands. But on Hawaii Island, the industry is facing some challenges to its growth. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa unveiled a $573.6 million proposed fiscal 2014 budget to the Maui County Council Monday morning, which included a large amount of funding for infrastructure improvements and upgrades to county roads, water systems and wastewater systems. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa today confirmed his plans to trim the recycling budget for the fiscal year of 2014, and close county-run recycling facilities. Maui Now.

The Maui County Council's Budget and Finance Committee has scheduled community meetings for public comments on Mayor Alan Arakawa's proposed fiscal 2013-14 budget. Maui News.

Twenty-one women from Maui and Molokai involved in technology have been nominated for awards by the Maui County Committee on the Status of Women as part of Women's History Month. Maui News.

Kauai

Skyline Eco-Adventures plans to open its first zip line on Kauai this May. Pacific Business News.

A wall of “Dreams” discussed by Kaua‘i High School Principal Debbie Lindsey and senior Trysen Kaneshige could not be dampened by the showers which accompanied the passing of a weather front Thursday and Friday. Garden Island.

Hawaii, teachers union reach deal; University of Hawaii spends millions on PR; Kona courthouse funding slashed; Honolulu public housing residents asked to work 8 hours/month; Kauai coral in peril; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

HSTA and Abercrombie announce new contract, courtesy photo

The state and the Hawaii State Teachers Association have reached a tentative agreement on a new four-year pact that provides for pay increases, restoration of previous medical coverage premium percentages, and HSTA input on teaching evaluation policies. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii teachers will receive pay raises and better healthcare benefits under a new four-year contract that the state and union tentatively agreed to this weekend. Civil Beat.

After more than two years of negotiations, the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) has reached an agreement with the state Department of Education over a new employment contract. Hawaii News Now.

It's been more than two years since the Hawaii teachers union and the state started negotiating a new contract. And Sunday night HSTA and the governor announced they've come to a tentative agreement. KHON2.

State House leaders are interested in providing income tax relief — an idea that has not had currency at the Legislature since the state was flush with a record budget surplus. Star-Advertiser.

Despite the Hawaii Legislature’s failure to take up marriage equality legislation this session, gay rights groups say they hope that discussion scheduled today on two resolutions will yield progress on an issue whose time has come. Tribune-Herald.

The GMO debate comes as Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the Legislature are pushing the state toward greater food self-sustainability. Measures still alive in the 2013 session include ones that would create a "food resiliency" initiative under the state Department of Agriculture, increase feed subsidies to grow livestock production, improve irrigation systems and expand a DOA loan program for infrastructure improvements, new farming techniques and bio-security projects. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Senate Ways and Means Committee plans to hear a slew of proposals this week, including a much-debated one to raise state revenue by developing school lands. Associated Press.

Amid surging tuition rates, a shrinking state budget and a failed concert fiasco that raised concerns over the institution’s internal structure, the University of Hawaii this past year spent roughly $4 million of its $1.4 billion operating budget on public relations, marketing and outreach, according to a Civil Beat review of records provided by the university. Civil Beat.

MRC Greenwood has traveled for nearly one year out of her four-year tenure as University of Hawaii President, according to records obtained from the University administration. Hawaii Reporter.

Video news reports produced by University of Hawaii communications staff are popping up in hundreds of Hawaii newscasts, raising questions about the integrity of local journalism and whether broadcast stations are delivering fair, independently reported coverage. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s preschool proposal will likely be getting a boost from the state Senate Ways and Means Committee. Associated Press.

Lawmakers have downgraded some of this year's unsuccessful education bills to resolutions encouraging public school officials to instead study or consider certain initiatives rather than make them with new laws. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Friday that he has released more than $26.2 million for construction projects to improve public schools around the state. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines has signed a definitive agreement with Airbus to acquire 16 to 25 new A321neo jets, with the first deliveries in 2017. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for March 25. Associated Press.

Oahu

On Oahu many of the degraded streets and highways giving drivers headaches today stem from budget decisions made years earlier, where public officials opted to kick routine street maintenance down the road in favor of other priorities. Star-Advertiser.

A June 2005 audit of the city's road maintenance practices that was released shortly after Mufi Hannemann became mayor, shows the crisis over Honolulu's roads is nothing new. Star-Advertiser.

Keep your eyes on the ground when you're walking through Chinatown. Potholes on the sidewalk are upsetting local store owners. KITV4.

Unemployed folks living in federal housing are being asked to do community service or move out. It's a federal requirement that's been in affect for more than a decade, but there's a new push to enforce it here in Hawaii. KHON2.

A nonprofit is encouraging the city to reopen access roads to the Haiku Stairs, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, and implement a management program similar to the one at Hanauma Bay. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge plans to hear more evidence on whether a defense contractor accused of giving military secrets to his Chinese girlfriend should stay in custody while awaiting trial. Associated Press.

An estimated 800 people rallied outside the downtown post office Sunday afternoon to protest Postmaster General Patrick Dona­hoe's plans to end Saturday mail delivery. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The $90 million in funding sought for the long-promised Kona Judiciary Complex — previously deemed a high priority — has been slashed in half. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is about ready to make the final step to energy-efficient street lights. Next month, the Department of Public Works’ Traffic Division will bring a proposal before the County Council’s Finance Committee to replace the fairly dim low-pressure sodium lights with brighter light-emitting diode, or LED, versions. Tribune-Herald.

State lawmakers are halfway through this year’s legislative session, more than 300 bills were sent from one chamber to the other for further consideration, and there’s still much more work to be done, Rep. Cindy Evans told West Hawaii residents Sunday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council Member Riki Hokama spoke with dozens of key U.S. House and Senate committee members as well as met other national leaders to address county issues during the National Association of Counties' 2013 Legislative Conference held the first week of March in Washington, D.C. Maui News.

The blessing of a new, donated state fisheries enforcement boat, Kai'aiki, on Saturday and the launch of a pilot nearshore waters enforcement unit are both steps toward protecting ocean resources, said longtime fisherman Darrell Tanaka. Maui News.

Marching for health of kids, land, ocean. Maui News.

Island Air will re-launch service to Kahului and Lanai starting April 15, just prior to ending its Kapalua service May 31. Maui Now.

Kauai

The temporary solution for unforeseen roadblocks for Kekaha Landfill’s lateral expansion will be much cheaper than the original option, but will also turn the landfill into a 120-foot beachfront structure on the Westside. Garden Island.

Jan TenBruggencate, Carol Bain and Allan Smith were re-elected to the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative Board of Directors Saturday afternoon. Garden Island.

A rapidly spreading coral disease discovered more than a year ago on Kaua‘i’s North Shore has now been documented at more than 60 locations around the island, according to Hanalei biologist Terry Lilley. Garden Island.

Hawaii gets $17M for road repair, bill would keep candidates' hands off ballots, Public Safety mulls how murderer escaped, AP students increase, deaf fight for services, Maui mayor seeks water rate hikes, Kauai county prosecutor breaks hip, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii roadway (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

he state of Hawaii will be receiving $17 million in disaster relief funds to repair roads and highways. Associated Press.

Senator Mazie K. Hirono, Senator Brian Schatz, and Representative Tulsi Gabbard announced today that Hawaii will receive $17 million for disaster relief. Hawaii Reporter.

Senate Bill 827 would prohibit candidates from physically handling or possessing absentee ballots and voter registration forms. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie may be asked to sign legislation that would give the state Senate reasons to impeach him. Civil Beat.

Conflicting testimony by the current and former directors of the State Ethics Commission before a Senate committee earlier this month exposed different perspectives on the interpretation of a key conflict of interest provision and of the ethics laws more generally. Civil Beat.

Deaf people and advocates are fighting to preserve state-funded interpreter referral and independent living services, saying they are vital to helping members of the deaf community operate in the hearing world. Star-Advertiser.

The percentage of Hawaii students taking Advanced Placement courses increased faster than the national average, and students scored higher than last year, while still trailing their national counterparts. West Hawaii Today.

More than 1 million federal employees, including thousands of workers in Hawaii, will likely be forced to take unpaid furloughs starting in April because of the $85 billion in spending cuts that will go into effect March 1 if Congress doesn’t act. Pacific Business News.

19,000 Hawaii Defense Workers At Risk Of Being Furloughed. Civil Beat.

Seven years after the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands became the world’s first oceanic no-fishing marine reserve, Hawaii’s example is being followed by countries ranging from Great Britain to Chile, giving hope that the huge areas they are protecting will become invaluable food banks as the world’s oceans are inexorably fished out and the global catch continues its 30-year-old decline. Honolulu Weekly.

Are Hawaii Schools Doing Enough to Prevent Youth Sports Concussions? Civil Beat.

It took a full presidential term, a re-election, and the work of a determined journalist before President Barack Obama agreed to a one-on-one interview with a television news crew from Hawaii. KITV4.

Oahu

Union fights Council on nonresort lodging: A bill allowing limited service hotels in lower density, mixed-use neighborhoods of West and Central Oahu was sent back to the City Council Planning and Zoning Committee for retinkering on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal to build a canoe hale and park could end the controversy over what to do with eight city-owned parcels in Haleiwa. Star-Advertiser.

Public safety officials are trying to piece together how murder suspect Teddy Munet escaped from corrections officers behind the Circuit Court building in Kakaako on Wednesday morning. More than 11 hours later, Munet, 29, was arrested without incident by Honolulu police on Waimanu Street — about eight blocks away — after a tip was called into 911. Star-Advertiser.

This is the second time in less than four months that a prisoner has escaped from circuit court. Officials say, yes, it's definitely a concern, but if inmates are desperate, they'll try anything. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council heard testimony on Bill 2, 6, and 7, which all look to give power to the police to regulate and remove people or property that are "nuisances to the public." KHON2.

On a quiet hillside above Haleiwa town, Seneca Klassen is planting cacao seedlings on the last of his 14 acres, next to trees he planted a few years ago that are now laden with the nubby pods that yield chocolate. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

More homeowners could soon be moved away from Puna Geothermal Venture with the help of Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

Keaukaha residents will have to endure another two months of heavy traffic as the sewer project that has rerouted drivers from Kalanianaole Avenue faces delays. Tribune-Herald.

Cultural Learning Center to Replace Former Keauhou Beach Hotel. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa on Wednesday called for water rate hikes of 5 percent across the board, noting repairs and upgrades that are long overdue for the county's aging water system.  Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa delivered his State of the County Address before an auditorium of guests at the HP Baldwin High School Auditorium in Wailuku on Wednesday night. Maui Now.

A 6-3 vote by the state Land Use Commission found the landowners of Pi'ilani Promenade, Maui Outlets and a housing project in violation of the original order granted in 1995 that converted the land from agricultural to urban use. Maui Weekly.

Kahana Sunset apartment owners worry about the next big winter storm. Perched near the water's edge at Keonenui Bay in Napili, the 4.5-acre, six-building apartment complex has had some close calls with destructive surf since the 79-unit resort was built in 1971. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar has suffered a broken hip. Kollar reported Wednesday that he is presently out of the office to take care of a broken hip, but that he remains in close contact with his staff on a daily basis, according to county spokeswoman Beth Tokioka. Garden Island.

Nancy Pflueger said she doesn’t know who signed the joint federal income tax returns filed for the years 2003 through 2006 for her and her husband, but that the signatures on the documents are not hers. Star-Advertiser.

Lanai

Lanai majority owner Larry Ellison, who met face-to-face for the first time with Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa on Tuesday aboard the billionaire’s yacht off the coast of the Pineapple Isle, revealed new development plans for Lanai, which he reportedly bought for an estimated $500 million last June. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

When the Kalaupapa post office wasn’t shut down last year, the small, isolated community considered it a big victory. The patients and staff at the former Hansen’s Disease settlement recently celebrated again as they learned their post office – a vital communication lifeline for the area – will extend its operating time by two hours a day, a rare deal in this unstable time for the United States Postal Service. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii refinery closure raises fuel concerns, Dems seek applicants for Maui House seat, corrections officer files whistleblower lawsuit, Kauai solar a no-go, Honolulu trims drivers license wait time, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tesoro Hawaii refinery, corporate image

The impending closure of one of Hawaii’s two oil refineries is bolstering calls from energy experts and state officials to diversify Hawaii’s energy sources and wean the state off of its near total dependence on imported oil. Civil Beat.

Tesoro Corp.’s Hawaii refinery in Kapolei, the largest of the two oil refineries in the state with a capacity of 94,000 barrels a day, is closing its refining operations in April and will convert it to an import, storage and distribution terminal. Pacific Business News.

Most energy experts Hawaii News Now spoke with Tuesday said they do not expect the price of gas at the pump in Hawaii to jump because of the shutdown of Tesoro's refinery in Kapolei. Hawaii News Now.

The refinery shutdown means Hawaii will be more fuel dependent on outside markets but experts say there is no need to worry over added pain at the pump. KHON2.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz plans to meet next week with former Gov. John Waihee, chairman of the state Native Hawaiian Roll Commission, to develop a strategy on how to continue the state delegation's pursuit of federal recognition of Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser.

At least one local health insurance plan for state and county workers offered through the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund (EUTF) violated provisions of federal law for an unspecified period by limiting access to outpatient mental health services, according to a case summary published in the 2011-2012 annual report of the Office of the Ombudsman. Civil Beat.

A little over a year after the state announced a comprehensive initiative to tackle bullying in schools, Department of Education officials say they have made progress — but that there's still much more to do. Star-Advertiser.

Education leaders are facing a tough assignment. Despite an anti-bullying campaign in Hawaii schools, bullying and harassment cases went up during the 2011- 2012 school year. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for January 9. Associated Press.

Oahu

Help is on the way for those stuck in line waiting for a state identification card or driver's license. The city is hiring seven part-time people on a temporary basis to help deal with the influx of people showing up at Oahu's five licensing offices, Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The DMV hasn't had the best reputation for efficiency.  Now wait times in Honolulu are even worse because the City is processing drivers licenses and state identification cards and the lines have been painfully long. Hawaii News Now.

The state plans to add more lanes to a large portion of the H-1 Freeway and possibly to a major road in Leeward Oahu. This comes at a time when Honolulu has been named one of the most traffic-congested cities. KHON2.

The Honolulu District Court is functioning although its four elevators still are not. Star-Advertiser.

The Chinatown Business and Community Association is trying to rally more support for an alcohol ban during street parties, like First Friday events. KITV4.

A Circuit Court jury will resume deliberations today on whether to award about $14 million to a 79-year-old man who was paralyzed in a fall of 15 to 20 feet from the elevated first tee late at night at the Mid-Pacific Country Club. Star-Advertiser.

HPD K-9 gets Kevlar vest protection. KITV4.

Hawaii

The County Council’s Finance Committee gave its support Tuesday to a proposal that would add composting to its green waste operation, currently limited to recycling yard clippings for mulch. Tribune-Herald.

The county is looking to expand its green waste program to provide an improved product for the public – but at a price. Big Island Now.

Schatz to ‘work very hard’ for Saddle Rd. funding. West Hawaii Today.

As the nation debates whether armed guards are necessary on school premises in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, Hawaii school and police officials are continuing their assessments of security protocols and procedures. Tribune-Herald.

Department of Land and Natural Resources officials don’t yet know when their governing board will consider a package of proposed rule changes for West Hawaii’s waters. West Hawaii Today.

The new Hawaii County Council is having its first meetings of the year today and tomorrow in Hilo. Hawaii Public Radio.

Two public hearings have been scheduled this month regarding a plan to re-open the Kulani Correctional Facility. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Those interested in filling the District 9 state House seat vacated by Democrat Gil Keith-Agaran have until noon Friday to apply for the spot. Maui News.

The Maui County Democratic Party is now accepting applications from individuals interested in filling the District 9 state House vacancy created by the governor’s appointment of Gil Keith-Agaran to the state Senate. Maui Now.

A Maui Community Correctional Center jail guard has filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the state Department of Public Safety, alleging retaliation when he made complaints that a jail sergeant used an inmate work crew to do landscaping for his private business. Maui News.

$6 million in state funding has been released for the construction of part of the new Kahului Airport Access Road. The funds cover a portion of the road from Puunene Avenue to the Hana Highway. Maui Now.

Nearly a year after public discussion about the urgent need for a major overhaul of Kahului Airport's 71-year-old, 7,000-foot main runway, state Department of Transportation officials remain undecided about which repair option to choose and how long Maui's air overseas lifeline would need to be closed, if at all. Maui News.

Kauai

Poipu Solar LLC’s 3-megawatt solar photovoltaic facility on Kauai’s South Shore is not happening, a source told PBN. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawai‘i hosted a Community Forum at Kaua‘i Community College Monday with President M.R.C. Greenwood. Garden Island.

Permits for Hanalei’s new building deferred. Differing opinions on ‘what is rural’ stall decision at Planning Commission meeting. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission unanimously approved Commissioner Wayne Katayama to preside as chair of the volunteer group during 2013 in its first meeting of the year. Garden Island.

Hawaiian sovereignty activists occupy Iolani Palace grounds, Kauai grapples with landfill, Hawaii County struggles with building code, Molokai doesn't like yacht, more news for smartphone and web

Iolani Palace (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A group of about 20 Hawaiian sovereignty activists belonging to the group Hawaiian Kingdom Government issued a 50-page statement Wednesday demanding that the Friends of ‘Iolani Palace vacate the grounds. Star-Advertiser.

Federal prosecutors were dealt another major setback on Wednesday after a federal magistrate denied their request for a nine-month continuance in what government officials have called the largest human trafficking case in U.S. history. Civil Beat.

Obama to Hold Fundraiser in Honolulu After APEC. Civil Beat.

Patricia M. Loui has been confirmed for a place on the board of the Export-Import Bank of the United States, Sen. Daniel Akaka’s office said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii DOE Superintendent's Lesson — Keep Your Head in the Sand. Civil Beat.

One of the fastest-growing visitor markets for Hawaii is South Korea. The Hawaii Tourism Authority says both arrivals and spending by South Koreans have been climbing steadily over the past several years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Telcom IBEW union says it is waiting for a strike approval from the international office and it would be holding a meeting with the strike captains. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The pregnant Honolulu woman arrested with her husband for shoplifting two sandwiches at a downtown Safeway says she blames the store manager for allowing a mistake to escalate into an incident that sparked national attention. Civil Beat.

The news about the arrest of Nicole Leszczynski, 28, and her husband Marcin, 33, in the Safeway store on Beretania Street in Honolulu continues to make national and international news ranging from the Washington Post to the London Daily Mail - and it has even caught the attention of Steven Colbert. Hawaii Reporter.

Law enforcement sources told KITV 4 News they are concerned a former Honolulu police officer who failed to show up for sentencing in a sexual assault case last week may have fled to his native Morocco, while his lawyer fears his client may be dead. KITV4.

Police announced new details Wednesday on park restrictions tied to next week's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings as some Waikiki residents made plans to leave the island and others stocked up on provisions to hunker down during APEC. Star-Advertiser.

The City Council quickly disposed of a proposal for another public vote on the rail transit project Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu residents whose building permits were held up because their homes were determined to be too far from the nearest fire hydrant are applauding a decision by the Board of Water Supply to relax the policy after consulting with the Hono­lulu Fire Department. Star-Advertiser.

On a given day, roughly 30,000 vehicles travel along Kahekili Highway and for drivers on the Windward side of Oahu it's a common complaint that traffic on this stretch can cause quite a back-up. KHON2.

Disgraceful and Dangerous, those two words are used a lot to describe our playgrounds and, it's easy to see why. Hawaii News Now.

From the North Shore to East Oahu, many playgrounds have become a "black eye" for the city and concern for parents. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

In a climate so gentle that some residents have only screens on windows to catch the trade winds, many are wondering why the county wants to force them to install double-paned glass windows and double-walled construction when building or remodeling their homes. West Hawaii Today.

Two proposals to boost Hawaii County's emergency cash reserves and another to design a Waimea transit hub received unanimous support from a County Council committee Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

A showdown is brewing between the state's Charter School Review Panel and the interim board for the Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School. Tribune-Herald.

The head of the Department of Land and Natural Resources and three state senators want to hear the public's concerns at a series of upcoming meetings around the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The East Maui Animal Refuge is seeking help from the public, as it works toward regaining permits to take in wildlife. Maui News.

Maui County will be in the mix of things during next week's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leader's Week meetings in Honolulu, with a booth at the Hawaii Convention Center and Mayor Alan Arakawa invited to a variety of exclusive venues, said county Economic Development Coordinator Teena Rasmussen. Maui News.

Kauai

With the Kekaha Landfill set to close permanently by December 2020 and without a fully functional recycling network or processing plant, the county is still struggling to site a new landfill. Garden Island.

More than 2,000 plants are scheduled to be given away at the Arbor Day Plant Give-away, Saturday from 9 a.m. behind the K-mart store at the Kukui Grove Center. Garden Island.

Molokai

As American Safari Cruises’ yacht docked on its first trip to Molokai last Sunday morning, protesters greeted it with requests to leave local waters. Molokai Dispatch.

Feds give Hawaii $125.7M for roads, health insurers ailing, Maui sewage spill from tsunami still lingers, bank robbers active on Oahu, businesses to get tax relief, other top news from Hawaii

Hawaii received $125.7 million of the $26.6 billion allotted nationwide for highways under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the White House announced yesterday.

Hawaii Medical Service Association, reeling from a $64.4 million loss in 2009—its worst annual loss ever—is requesting an average 7.8 percent small-business rate increase for its most popular health plan and said it is making a fundamental change in the way it reimburses its medical providers.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association plans to raise premiums by an average of 7.8 percent for roughly 11,000 small businesses that buy health insurance for their employees.

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Hawaii sustained a $7 million loss in the fourth quarter amid declining revenue as more members lost their jobs and enrolled in the state's Quest program for low-income individuals.

The robbery of a Central Pacific Bank branch in Makiki yesterday makes the seventh bank heist of the year, nearly double the number reported at the same time last year.
It was another cool, but noisy night of high winds.

Monday's monthly siren test also tested emergency sirens that reportedly didn't fire on Saturday.

Relief is on its way for thousands of Hawaii employers now facing close to a 1000 percent increase in their unemployment insurance taxes.

Developer DW Aina Lea has about a month left to complete 16 affordable housing units at the Aina Lea project in South Kohala.

A day after a small tsunami generated by a giant earthquake in Chile just kissed Hawaii's shores, Maui county officials were still advising the public to stay out of some ocean areas because of sewage spills.

The Point at Po‘ipu’s timeshare management company said Monday that complaints about rising maintenance fees are based on a “fundamental misunderstanding” of the business, promising a lawsuit against the most vociferous owners within a week.

Bridges need repair, homeless find loophole, Legislature looks into stimulus, more top news

More of Hawaii's bridges are in need of modernization than bridges in most other states, according to an annual survey of state and county bridges by Better Roads magazine.

Leaders of Hawai'i's Neighbor Island counties say they'll manage to get through the fiscal year without budget deficits, but next year could bring employee furloughs and property tax increases.

Homeless camping in Kapiolani Park in the heart of the Waikiki tourist district is a problem the city can't make go away.

A joint panel of the state Legislature will examine the use of federal economic stimulus money in the state departments of health and human services.

For the second time in less than three weeks, a Honolulu police officer has fired multiple shots at a vehicle.

A probable cause hearing on a Hilo contractor's lien application against the state's biggest Burger King franchisee has been delayed.

Maui County is in the process of reaching settlements with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the state Department of Health over alleged violations at the county's landfills from more than three years ago.

A trio of experts on the workings of local government say while the existing “strong mayor” system has its faults, those problems can be addressed through elections, downplaying the need for a proposed switch to a council-county manager system.

The holidays and the birth of a new year give us the opportunity to count our Hawaiian blessings. Where else in the U.S. but in the makai areas of Hawaii can a person harvest pineapples, citrus, mangoes, papayas, bananas and avocados throughout the year and in the mauka areas, enjoy apples, plums, strawberries and peaches?

National report: Hawaii roads and bridges are dangerous; Lingle administration vows to help

A report by a national trans- portation research group released on Wed- nesday confirmed what most Hawaii drivers already know: roads and bridges in Hawaii are in bad shape and traffic is awful.

The Lingle administration is renewing efforts to get lawmakers to approve a "holistic" and "aggressive" $4.2 billion program for highway and traffic modernization, safety and education, state Transportation Director Brennon Morioka said yesterday.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono joined AARPHawai‘i for a health care town hall Wednesday, and “civility, aloha and dignity” prevailed in lieu of the division, fear and fighting that has plagued similar meetings across the country this summer.

The head of the state agriculture department said Wednesday she's located funds to cut in half the number of agriculture inspectors who may be laid off because of the state's budget crisis.

An attempt to give Hawaii County's auditor fiscal independence faltered Tuesday when a proposed Charter amendment was postponed at the request of its author.

The county's plan to sell lands seized in Hamakua for back taxes is a fire sale, community members warned the County Council Tuesday.

Weary and hungry from a meeting that ran nearly 111/2 hours, Hawaii County Council members voted to postpone their discussion on a bill that would provide greater transparency to large land sales by the county.

Five County Council members went on a lobbying expedition to Honolulu in April, assuring state lawmakers they would "quickly pass" a resolution asking for a reprieve from the state's new Clean Elections Law, according to an amended lawsuit filed Tuesday by West Hawaii Today.

Two 13-year-old boys were arrested after a 12-year-old girl told police Monday she was held against her will on the grounds of the Kamehameha Schools Kapalama campus from early Friday to early Monday and repeatedly sexually assaulted.

Tuesday marked the first day the Maui County Parks and Recreation Department - technically - put into place controversial rules meant to free up more space at Maui's most crowded beaches.

Tourists and workers were assured Tuesday that the Maui Prince Hotel will operate continuously through foreclosure, although there will be some loss of jobs.

Secret nude beaches, farmers' plight, tax scofflaws to be posted online and other top Hawaii news

When the state of Hawaii promotes its lush tropical beaches to the world, bathing in the buff is one attraction it turns a blind eye to. While some state beaches experienced a clothing crackdown in the past, officials pay less attention to naked beachgoers these days, let alone acknowledge they exist.

The jaw-dropping views are still here, from grass-covered cinder cones to Mauna Loa in the distance, as motorists drive at high speed past the quonset huts of Pohakuloa Training Area.

The bad news has been out there awhile, reinforced by the daily reminders on the roads: Hawaii Island's rate of traffic fatalities is three times that of Oahu, twice the rate of Maui and Kauai counties.

Farmers said Hawaii biggest money makers could be seriously impacted if the state goes ahead with plans to layoff agriculture inspectors.

Farming in North Hawaii faces new challenges daily.

The Hawai'i Government Employees Association has filed a prohibited practices complaint against Gov. Linda Lingle and several of her department directors, claiming the state has not adequately consulted with the union on the layoffs of more than 1,100 state workers.

Caught in a financial squeeze by the state's budget shortfall, the Hawaii Office of Elections has decided to pay its utility and other overhead costs for the rest of the fiscal year instead of filling four key positions as the 2010 elections approach.

A Hawaii scuba instructor and underwater videographer takes a journey to the center of the ocean and finds it's covered in plastic trash. Drew Wheeler went in search of trash and he found it floating in the most remote part of the Pacific Ocean. It's often called, "the Pacific garbage patch".

Mayor Billy Kenoi did not get authorization from the Hawaii County Council Finance committee Tuesday to move forward with the sale of land in Hamakua.

Maui County will post the names of delinquent taxpayers in an effort to recoup more than $8.6 million in unpaid real property taxes, the county Finance Department announced Tuesday.

Lawmakers sharpening budget pencils

It’s never quite as simple as choosing between education, roads


or their own raises, but Hawaii lawmakers this year face one of those “can’t win for losing” types of legislative sessions.

Someone’s belt is going to pinch during these tough economic times, and budget shortfalls are bound to make for some testy sessions, especially with the prospect of lawmakers' own 36-percent raises looming.

The Hawaii Legislature kicks off the New Year with two weeks of budget briefings starting Monday. Gov. Linda Lingle has already presented her own slimmed-down budget that she says represents a 14-percent reduction in discretionary funding over the two-year period. Any early budgets, however, are sure to be further reduced when the state Council on Revenues meets Jan. 9.

Hawaii is certainly not alone, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, which says only 12 states aren’t expecting budget shortfalls.

“These budget gaps are approaching those seen in the last recession, which were the worst since World War II, and show every sign of growing larger,” NCSL Executive Director William T. Pound said in a statement. "While the data we collected from state legislative fiscal officers are pretty sobering, our discussions with legislative leaders tell us that they expect the problem to only get worse.”

Hawaii officials, however, seem optimistic that public works projects can help keep the state’s economy afloat. Hawaii is one of a half-dozen states that are actually planning on increasing public works projects, according to stateline.org, while another half-dozen states are paring down their capital improvement projects because of financing problems or diminishing bond ratings.

President-elect Barack Obama’s proposed stimulus plan could send money to states to help keep state economies rolling. That makes the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials happy.

“President-elect Barrack Obama is pledging to put millions of Americans to work by building and repairing the nation's highways and bridges and a new survey of state ‘ready-to-go’ transportation projects is the road map he needs to make it happen," said Executive Director John Horsley in a statement.

Track state CIP projects online

HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle held a news conference today to emphasize that her administration is implementing $1.9 billion in capital improvement projects statewide as part of a “five-point action plan” to stimulate the economy. The 1,521 projects have already been budgeted and approved by the Legislature for the next 18 months. But Lingle said the use of a new web site to track the projects increases public accountability.
“By putting the projects online and updating the public on their status in a timely manner, we are keeping the pressure on ourselves to ensure the projects keep moving,” Lingle said in a statement. “The public will be able to pinpoint what stage the project is in, and if there are bottlenecks such as permit delays, they will know exactly who to contact and who to hold accountable.”