Hawaii boosts net worth, state Legislature tries to preempt county GMO laws, UH faculty complaint delays smoking ban, push for cool schools, design errors delay new UH Hilo building opening, state's first private Post Office to open on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii cattle (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Introduced by Sen. Clarence Nishihara, the Agriculture Committee chairman, and backed by several powerful senators, SB 3058 appears to be an attempt to exert state control over counties like Kauai and Hawaii that have moved to dramatically curb the use of pesticides and GMOs. But the bill faced referral to three joint committees as well as a fourth referral — a high hurdle — and as of Monday SB 3058 did not have a hearing scheduled before Thursday's triple-referral deadline. Solution? Take the key language of SB 3058 and place it into another bill related to ag — in this case, Senate Bill 110, a short-form bill held over from last year. And give it a hearing at the last minute. Civil Beat.

The state closed the last fiscal year with a net gain in assets for the first time since 2006, another mark of the state's economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Abercrombie Monday announced the first increase in state government's net worth in years as two top state senators – including one challenging Abercrombie's re-election – said lawmakers also deserve credit for the state's improving financial situation because they rejected Abercrombie's tax hike proposals and cut his budget. Hawaii News Now.

The push to cool public school classrooms got a boost Monday as the state House Education Committee advanced a bill that would dedicate $25 million to air-condition schools next school year. The measure still faces the House Finance Committee, which will need to prioritize a long list of competing interests for state funds this year. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Bob McDermott, who enrolled his eight children in Hawaii’s public schools, doesn’t want his 11-year-old son exposed to a controversial taxpayer-funded sex education program. That program is taught in 12 public schools across the state, and the Hawaii Department of Education is planning to expand the curriculum to others. Hawaii Reporter.

State lawmakers have scheduled a hearing today on a bill aimed at putting pressure on Hawaiian Electric Co. to be more responsive to its customers' demanding lower electricity prices. The measure, HB 1999, would empower the Legislature to review the franchise granted by the state that allows the HECO companies to operate as a regulated monopoly on all major islands except Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

People who work but are still homeless would get help moving into rooms for rent in private homes if Hawaii lawmakers pass a bill expanding a state housing program. A bill before the state House (HB1841) could widen Housing First, a program that aims to find permanent housing for homeless people. Associated Press.

State Sen. Suzanne Chun Oakland wants to boost Hawaii’s affordable housing stock by convincing the Legislature to spend hundreds of millions of dollars to subsidize rentals for low-income Hawaii residents. Sen. David Ige, who leads the Senate’s budget committee, says there’s not a chance that her bill will receive that level of funding. But Chun Oakland is still pushing the ambitious proposal, reflecting her efforts over two decades to make housing for the poor into a legislative priority. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Health Connector launched a new statewide enrollment drive Monday in preparation for the March 31 deadline to sign up for insurance under the Affordable Care Act. The state-based online insurance marketplace has created new advertisements and online tools and will host a number of events to encourage uninsured residents to sign up for coverage through the Connector's community outreach partners known as Kokua. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A smoking ban at the University of Hawaii Manoa that was supposed to start in February has been delayed because of a complaint filed by the University of Hawaii Professional Assembly. KITV4.

Chancellor Tom Apple wanted the campus-wide smoking ban to begin Jan. 1, but the faculty’s union filed a complaint about it late last year. KHON2.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia told law students at the University of Hawaii on Monday that the nation’s highest court was wrong to uphold the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II, but he wouldn’t be surprised if the court issued a similar ruling during a future conflict. Associated Press.

Loathed by oh-so-many liberals, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia waded into the deep-blue Aloha State Monday for a talk with law students at the University of Hawaii. The surprise for much of the audience wasn't that the supremely self-confident Scalia stated his constitutional judicial philosophy with authority; it was his edgy wit. Civil Beat.

Affordable housing slated for Hawaii Kai site. Hawaii News Now.

Less than six years after opening its store at Ala Moana Center, Nordstrom Inc. announced Monday it is moving to another location in the mall. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The stalled Hu Honua Bioenergy project in Pepeekeo ran into more trouble, as three creditors say they’re owed delinquent unpaid bills, including one for more than $35 million. Three applications for mechanic’s and materialman’s liens were filed last month in Hilo Circuit Court. The largest, filed Jan. 30 by the project’s main contractor, Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., claims Hu Honua owes $35,166,862.50. Another, claiming an unpaid bill of $1,303,976.45, was filed Jan. 29 by American Electric Co. The third, filed Jan. 16 by General Supply and Services, dba Gexpro, seeks payment of $53,286. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s new Student Services Building has appeared to be complete for months now, but it has yet to open for business. Administrators and staff hoped to move into the building in the fall of 2013, after primary construction was completed during the summer. But in an email sent Friday in response to questions, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Luoluo Hong reported the university now expects full occupancy not to occur until late this summer. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The US Postal Service will open its first Village Post Office in the state this week at Hanzawa’s Variety Store in Haʻikū on the island of Maui. Village Post Offices are owned and operated by third party businesses and “complement the Postal Service’s own network” of service locations. Maui Now.

Maui professor Kaleikoa Ka‘eo delivered this alternative to the Governor's State of the State address at the "People Not Profits" rally. Hawaii Independent.

Servco Automotive has purchased Maui’s Island Subaru dealership in Kahului from Kitagawa Motors, the company said Monday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Smart Growth America announced that the County of Kauai was selected to receive free smart growth technical assistance through a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. The county is one of 18 communities out of 100 applicants and the only Hawaii community that will receive a one- or two-day training session with an expert from Smart Growth America. Garden Island.

Support strong for Kokee council. Bill to end advisory group runs into opposition. Garden Island.

Hawaii airfares rise, state lawmakers tackle hot schools, legislator continues fight against sex-ed class, UH cancer director keeps job, Honolulu councilman to run for state Senate, monitors planned near geothermal plant, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Airplane over Waikiki sunset (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

The chief executive of Hawaiian Airlines says airfares that have risen for travelers throughout Hawaii are reasonable given rises in fuel costs, government fees and other operating costs. Associated Press.

Ask most folks about the cost of an airline ticket these days, and they’ll tell you they’re too high. Cost too much. No reason for those airfares to be what they are, other than filling the pockets of CEOs. We have no choice here on Kauai, some say, so the airlines are sticking it to us. Mark Dunkerley says otherwise. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s blistering classrooms could soon see cooler days if state lawmakers decide to give public schools money this year for air conditioning, a rare commodity that’s lacking even in the hottest parts of the islands. Legislators on the education committees expect classroom cooling to get some buzz during the upcoming legislative session, which kicks off Jan. 15. Civil Beat.

About 640 children from low-income families across the state will be eligible to enroll in pre-kindergarten classes next year at 30 public school campuses that were announced Thursday by the state's Executive Office on Early Learning and the Department of Education. The plan is contingent on $4.5 million in state funding that legislators have yet to consider. But Gov. Neil Abercrombie says he's confident the Legislature will make the investment. Star-Advertiser.

It's a topic that's been on the table for quite some time -- a state-funded pre-kindergarten program for 4-year-olds. On Thursday, the state announced that it finally hopes to have one in place by August. KHON2.

A state House lawmaker complained Thursday that a pilot sex education curriculum for middle school students is not medically accurate or age appropriate, and deliberately minimizes the health risks of homosexual behavior. Pono Choices is part of the state Department of Education's abstinence-based sex education policy but also emphasizes condom use to reduce the risk of teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The pilot curriculum is now in 12 schools, with eight other schools scheduled for training. Star-Advertiser.

There's more controversy over the state's Pono Choices sex education program. This time it involves one of the controversial curriculum's critics. Tito Montes, president of the Hawaii Republican Assembly, is under fire for calling a respected Hawaiian leader and cultural practicioner a "transvestite" and a "drag queen." Hawaii News Now.

Bob McDermott, it seems, is obsessed with anuses. In particular, the state legislator believes that the anus is not the same as a penis or a vagina because it isn't involved in making babies. Public schools should not teach kids in grades 6-8 that anal sex is appropriate behavior — something the Republican representing Ewa, Ewa Beach and Iroquois Point, argues is part of the "agenda" of a Department of Education sex-ed program called Pono Choices. Civil Beat.

There are 210 days left before the Primary Election and the race for Hawai’i’s U.S. Senate seat will be gearing up for what could be a close vote. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Attorney's office in Hawaii says it collected more than $2.4 million in civil and criminal actions for the 2013 fiscal year. U.S. Attorney Florence Nakakuni announced Thursday $1.5 million was collected in criminal actions and about $930,000 was collected in civil actions. Associated Press.

The Hawaii House and Senate majorities are planning to advance legislation this session that would put the state on a timetable to determine the potential impacts of climate change in Hawaii and implement policies to counteract them. Lawmakers met Thursday during an informational briefing at the state Capitol that was called in response to recent destructive coastal erosion on Oahu’s North Shore. Civil Beat.

Gordon Ito, insurance commissioner for the state of Hawaii, has an inbox filled with all matters relating to regulating insurance in the islands, with the exception of paying workers' compensation benefits. Earlier this week, the Insurance Division released rate guides for health, homeowner and car policies, posting them online (cca.hawaii.gov/ins). Star-Advertiser.

A new plan to calm a broadening controversy at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center won't solve the main problems, according to least a half-dozen faculty members who have spoken out, written letters or filed complaints with the university. Civil Beat.

Michele Carbone, the embattled director of the University of Hawaii Cancer Center, will retain his job under a revamped leadership team that will include a chief operating officer and senior adviser as well as new reporting lines, the university announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for January 10. Associated Press.

Oahu
Honolulu City Councilman Breene Harimoto announced this week that he is forgoing a re-election bid this fall to run for the state Senate 16th District seat. Meanwhile, Harimoto legislative aide Brandon Ele­fante said he intends to run for the seat his boss is leaving behind. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu officials continue to negotiate with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development over how much money the city owes the federal agency for mismanaging grant funds that were given to a Central Oahu nonprofit. HUD just lowered their demand to $3 million. Civil Beat.

Reviews from the Waikiki community were mixed upon getting the first glimpse of the planned Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Beach Residences luxury tower and an adjacent second tower in their totality. The developer, PACREP LLC, held a community meeting Thursday night in Wai­kiki to respond to the community furor that broke out last month when it filed plans with the city to construct a 39-story tower at 2139 Kuhio Ave., which will be a stand-alone, 350-foot building with up to 280 units. Star-Advertiser.

“How do you musubi?” That’s the theme of 12 television commercials featuring Spam that Hormel Foods is filming in Hawaii, in partnership with Aloha Plate food truck and Cooking Hawaiian Style. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The Windward Planning Commission made a small first step Thursday toward funding some of the recommendations of the geothermal working group. The commission’s agenda included requests from Mayor Billy Kenoi to tap the county’s geothermal asset fund for several of the group’s recommended projects, including the purchase of stationary and hand-held gas monitors. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, has erupted many times — most recently three decades ago with lava coming within just miles of Hilo — and it will erupt again, posing a significant risk to those who call Hawaii Island home, a Hawaii Volcano Observatory geologist said Wednesday. But, the million dollar question remains: When is Mauna Loa going to erupt again? West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The County of Maui, Office of the Mayor in partnership with the state Department of Agriculture issued an urgent advisory this afternoon asking the public to check hāpuʻu tree ferns purchased on Maui over the last 12 months for little fire ants. Maui Now.

Despite a public notice and signs telling people to stay away, motorists are still trying to drive around the north side of West Maui and getting caught in a road-paving project area with no option except to turn around, Maui County officials said. Maui News.

Kauai

Little fire ants, considered one of the world’s smallest and nastiest invasive species, are back in the spotlight after turning up on Oahu and Maui last month. Garden Island.


Molokai

Students at Molokai High School will get science classroom labs up to state Department of Education standards to replace their makeshift ones in a construction project set to begin this year. Maui News.

Hawaii children head back to school, Schatz, Hanabusa differ on Medicare, UH applicants have military ties, GMO debate hurting papaya farmers, Fukushima children visit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii schoolchildren (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

It's back to school for most of Hawaii's public school students. The new school year for students begins Monday. Teachers headed back to the classroom last week. Hawaii is the nation's 10th largest school system and the only statewide district in the country. Associated Press.

As the new school year kicks off today, more than 180,000 public school students face new, more rigorous academic standards in language arts and math as Hawaii and about 40 other states roll out what's known as the Common Core standards. Star-Advertiser.

Back in April, the Hawaii State Teachers Association ratified a new four-year deal that includes annual pay raises tied to performance evaluations. It's the pilot year for the new grading system and HSTA head Wil Okabe says members are eager to move forward. Hawaii News Now.

With the first day of school right around the corner, "big changes" in how teachers, students and schools are evaluated will go into effect statewide Monday, state Department of Education officials said. Maui News.

Hanabusa, Schatz differ on Medicare drug rebates. The senator and his challenger, who generally share the same views, disagree on this matter of policy. Star-Advertiser.

A program that would help fly homeless people in Hawaii back to the mainland is being greeted with skepticism by the state's human services officials and groups that help the homeless. A provision allowing the state Department of Human Services to coordinate a voluntary "return-to-home" program is included in a new state law. The department said it doesn't have any plans to implement the program at this time, but publicity surrounding it has officials worried nonetheless. Associated Press.

Three of the five finalists being considered to head the University of Hawaii's research efforts, including the UH initiative to create a $1 billion-per-year research industry in the state by 2022, have close ties to the military. Civil Beat.

Six children who lived through the largest nuclear accident since Chernobyl are on their way to Oahu for play and respite after a longer stop on Hawaii island. The children, who were affected by the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, landed on Hawaii island June 24 and will visit Oahu from Aug. 16 to 20. Star-Advertiser.

The more than $50 million in salaries and other benefits paid to around 350 non-academic staff have caught the attention of prominent legislators who say they’re concerned Hawaii’s only state university is becoming too administratively top heavy. Hawaii Reporter.

Official language unusable for official business? Native Hawaiian speaker says restrictions on language. KITV4.

This year’s Made in Hawaii Festival will feature more than 100 new vendors, an indication the annual event is growing in popularity. Associated Press.

What was Tropical Storm Gil has weakened to a depression as another storm behind it intensified into Tropical Storm Henriette this morning and could become a hurricane in two to three days. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for August 5. Associated Press.

Oahu

Residents in Nuuanu Valley form a co-op to share their garden bounty and to nurture a neighborhood. Star-Advertiser.

A report ordered by Congress on the Pearl Harbor cruiser USS Port Royal shows that the ship's condition is not as bad as the Navy portrayed in its attempts to retire it early to save money. Star-Advertiser.

Mahealani Richardson, a longtime news anchor for KITV News This Morning, is leaving the Honolulu ABC affiliate to do public relations for Shriner’s Hospital. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

About 70 showed up Sunday afternoon at Hawaii Academy of Arts and Sciences to discuss the state Department of Education’s decision on Friday to discontinue bus service for students of the Pahoa public charter school. Tribune-Herald.

Ohana Ho`opakele, the group seeking to create a pu’uhonua at the soon to be reinstated Kulani Correctional Facility, has filed a complaint challenging the state’s Final Environmental Assessment on the reactivation of the prison. Big Island Video News.

Papaya Nightmares: A Farmer Struggles Amid Hawaii's GMO Debate. The fruit still clings to the branches on this 100-acre papaya farm because sales have plummeted in recent weeks, says the owner, Alberto Belmes, and the fruit is likely to rot where it is. Civil Beat.

Amid an impassioned debate about legislation that aims to restrict genetically modified crops on the Big Island, Civil Beat's Brad Watanabe and Sophie Cocke traveled to the Puna district to check out the papaya fields and talk to the fruit's savior. Civil Beat.

A new bill would make it easier for farmers markets to be set up in private subdivisions. Introduced by Puna Councilman Zendo Kern, the legislation allows homeowner associations to establish markets without obtaining a special use permit. Tribune-Herald.

An expanding swap meet is a growing source of contention in Ocean View. Ocean View Partners LLC filed in March for a new special permit for their farmers market, referred to more often as a swap meet. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The local variety of pineapple known as Maui Gold was almost lost when Maui Land & Pineapple Co. decided to cease its century-old pineapple production in 2009. However, thanks to a handful of the industry's "old-timers" - including former Maui Pineapple Co. President Doug Schenk, who lobbied with other executives to start their own pineapple business on Maui - residents, visitors and pineapple lovers may still enjoy one of the island's sweetest icons. Maui News.

Maui County is seeking bids from contractors for a project to install a street crossing and sidewalks to help students from Kamalii Elementary School walk safely to school in Kihei. Maui News.

Roberts Hawaiʻi celebrated the launch of its new Maui Airport Shuttle on Thursday, officially taking over management of the contract for the walk-up service in Kahului. Maui Now.

Kauai

A mostly residential North Shore town is at a loss on how to handle a lack of public restrooms, and the problem is escalating as more visitors are attracted to a growing commerce in the area. Garden Island.

New contract vote set for Hawaii teachers union, Honolulu mayoral candidates hold first debate, space tourism bills, $11.2B state budget up for vote in Legislature, more geothermal coming to Big Island, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

Hawaii schoolchildren at play (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii teachers will vote again on the contract settlement offer they overwhelmingly rejected in January, union leaders announced Wednesday night. Civil Beat.

The teachers union announced Wednesday it will take another vote on a proposed contract overwhelmingly rejected in January, a decision a union leader said is "driven by the urgency to preserve" the state's $75 million Race to the Top grant. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii's public school teachers union will be holding a number of "informational meetings" statewide for HSTA members in May. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Legislature will vote on the $11.2 billion state budget Thursday, the final day of the legislative session. KHON2.

The state Office of Information Practices hopes a bill that would grant government agencies a new right to appeal open records decisions in court would give its orders more legal clout, yet open government advocates warn that it would delay public access to information. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are expected to pass two bills on Thursday that would bring the state closer to space tourism and even developing the moon. Hawaii News Now.

Voters across Hawaii support the construction of underwater cables between some of the islands to transmit electricity from wind, geothermal or solar, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

A strong majority of Hawaii voters want the government to preserve more land and develop less of it. Civil Beat.

Hawaii may once again look to its four-legged friends to help prevent the introduction of invasive species. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii's four county mayors reminded residents Wednesday to always be prepared for natural disasters because they can strike unexpectedly any time of the year. Star-Advertiser.

The film commissions of all four Hawai'i counties, the Hawai'i Film Office, and the Creative Industries Division of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism were recently honored with a collaborative award from the American Marketing Association. Hawaii Reporter.

Ten million dollars is headed to the islands to improve community health care. The grants are part of the federal Affordable Care Act and the money will be used to reach more patients. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii gained a little ground this year in Chief Executive magazine’s annual survey of the best and worst states in which to do business. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The three candidates vying for Honolulu mayor engaged in the first debate of the campaign season Wednesday night, touching on a variety of subjects but ultimately trying to score points against one another on the singularly contentious issue of rail transit. Star-Advertiser.

In their first time on a stage together as mayoral candidates, Kirk Caldwell, Peter Carlisle and Ben Cayetano quickly established their roles. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s three mayoral candidates met Wednesday evening in their first debate of the election season, with the city’s $5.3 billion rapid transit project most of their attention. Hawaii Reporter.

In their first Mayoral debate, Ben Cayetano, Peter Carlisle and Kirk Caldwell wasted no time getting to Oahu's most talked about issue - rail. KHON2.

FACT CHECK — Caldwell: Carlisle Raised Property Tax Rates. Civil Beat.

The governor's wife voiced her opposition, but the state Wednesday gave developers of a planned $380 million luxury condominium tower in Kakaako an exemption from a rule intended to preserve mauka-makai views. Star-Advertiser.

Leeward Coast residents hoping to rid themselves of Waimanalo Gulch Landfill will have to wait awhile. KITV4.

Sen. Daniel Akaka

The University of Hawaii will award honorary degrees to Sen. Daniel Akaka and Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami at commencement ceremonies next week. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa has confirmed a possible computer security threat that was found on campus. KITV4.

Hawaii

The state Public Utilities Commission has taken the first step toward approving a second geothermal plant on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Two groups opposed to floating fish farms are considering an appeal of a ruling by U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway that a federal agency was within its authority to grant an ocean aquaculture permit to a private research venture. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined three Big Island businesses. Tribune-Herald.

A push to make corporation counsel an elected position took another step forward Wednesday, as County Council members made several amendments to the proposal and scheduled a public hearing. West Hawaii Today.

Kona International Airport will get some much-needed TLC with $10.4 million slated by the state Legislature to re-roof the open-airport’s main terminal early next year. West Hawaii Today.

A popular performing arts center in Kalapana Seaview Estates is facing a possible shutdown today by the Windward Planning Commission. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County has purchased 64 acres of undeveloped property fronting Kaehu Bay, preserving the wetland and fishponds in a $996,000 deal brokered with the Trust for Public Land and other groups. Maui News.

The County of Maui completed the $996,000 purchase of 64 acres of undeveloped coastal wetlands at Ka‘ehu Bay in Paukukalo. Maui Now.

A community meeting to provide public input on the development of the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Maui High School. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines has added three new boarding gates to its Kahului Airport operations, with all flights using gates 11 to 21 in the center of the terminal. Maui News.

Kauai

State workers have removed 300 nene geese from the area around Kauai's airport in the last few months to reduce the risk they will get in the way of airplanes taking off and landing. Associated Press.

The North Shore Path, a project to connect North Shore communities through a path similar to Kapa‘a’s Ke Ala Hele Makalae path, is gaining momentum. Garden Island.

Molokai

An old guy from Molokai is flying to Oahu and helping to lead a charge for labeling. Molokai Dispatch.

Elvis 40th anniversary celebration coming to Hawaii, pay hike promised for Legislature, judges, top state execs; Democrats at odds over candidate's rejection, Legislature revives $500M economic revitalization plan, school bus shortfall causes angst, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

© 1973, Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. and RCA Records.

Elvis Presley Enterprises has announced a vacation package to Hawaii in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of his concert in the state in 1973. Associated Press.

The surprising decision this weekend by Hawaii Democrats to reject Laura Thielen's request to run in the party's Aug. 11 primary for state Senate is causing many Democrats to question their own party. Civil Beat.

State senators took steps Tuesday to revive a $500 million investment in state construction, the Senate's signature idea to help with economic recovery that was in danger of failing this week because of House inaction. Star-Advertiser.

The governor wants to fast-track state construction projects to stimulate the economy with a 500-million dollar legislative package.   The Senate passed the bill in February but the State House refused to hear it …killing the measure.   But, the Senate countered the House yesterday. Hawaii Public Radio.


The Hawaii House of Representatives approved a bill Tuesday that will help generate thousands of jobs by authorizing the spending of more than $602 million to build car rental facilities and make road improvements at Honolulu International and Kahului airports. Pacific Business News.

 Half a billion dollars could start pumping into Hawaii's economy within months. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers, executive branch leaders and judges could see 5 percent more pay six months sooner than expected.KHON2.

The Hawaii Legislature is considering changing the rules of workers' compensation despite opposition from medical experts in the field who fear the move could hurt workers rather than help them. Hawaii News Now.

School bus service for more than 21,000 students on Oahu and the neighbor islands would be cut under a plan aimed at tackling an expected funding shortage for transportation next school year. Star-Advertiser.

A projected $22 million budget shortfall for student transportation services next year will likely result in more traffic congestion and higher drop-out rates, school officials warned Tuesday. Civil Beat.

The State Department of Education has created a list of the schools most at risk of losing school bus service, in order to deal with budget cuts. KHON2.

The controversy surrounding Gov. Neil Abercrombie's nominees to a commission that wields significant power over Hawaii's water resources continues, with critics charging that the two candidates don't fulfill qualifications mandated by law. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's highest-in-the nation gasoline prices rose again today, hitting a record $4.598 for a gallon of regular unleaded, according to the AAA Daily Fuel Gauge Report.Star-Advertiser.

Senator Dan Akaka has been honored for his commitment to the National Guard. KHON2.

State roundup for April 3. Associated Press.

Oahu

Expect to see more food trucks parked at Honolulu's metered stalls today after Mayor Peter Carlisle signed into law a bill making it legal for them to conduct business on streets for up to three hours at a time. Star-Advertiser.

Food truck owners had good reason to rejoice Tuesday after the Honolulu City Council passed a bill 8-0 that allows mobile gourmets to remain in one parking spot longer than 15 minutes.KITV4.

State senators on Tuesday kept alive the option of giving the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs flexibility to develop high-rise apartments on land near the waterfront in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Despite repeated threats from Honolulu City Council members and even an offer from another company to build new sewage treatment technology at no immediate cost to taxpayers, Mayor Peter Carlisle will not terminate the city's contract with the controversial fertilizer pellet producer Synagro. Civil Beat.

A “truth squad” organized by former Gov. Benjamin Cayetano to investigate the city’s budget and infrastructure problems, unveiled an analysis of Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle’s budget proposal a week ago. Hawaii Reporter.

The Honolulu City Council approved a permit Tuesday allowing the state to proceed on a $15 million project to reconstruct two Makaha Beach bridges along Farrington Highway despite objections from people living closest to the project. Star-Advertiser.

Aiea bag distributor bracing against possible bag ban. KITV4.

Hawaii

Hawaii Electric Light Co. President Jay Ignacio came before a County Council committee Tuesday to clear the air on what he said were misperceptions about the effects of solar and geothermal energy on electric rates. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council’s Finance Committee on Tuesday quizzed an independent tax assessment expert about his recommendations to make Hawaii County’s property tax policies more efficient and fair. Tribune-Herald.

A council committee approved a resolution urging the county to give residents a monetary incentive to recycle. Tribune-Herald.

Researchers already have a pretty good idea about where to find Hawaii’s two most famous cetacean species. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa is proposing to privatize the county's PALS program, saying a nonprofit organization could do a better job running the "Play and Learn Sessions" for out-of-school kids. Maui News.

A hearing officer who acknowledged receiving inappropriate outside pressure to reach a decision on a major new telescope proposed for Haleakala said Monday that he was "surprised" to have his report thrown out and felt it was rejected because it embarrassed people on both sides. Maui News.

A bill seeking a reduction in shipping time and costs for the transport of goods between Moloka’i and Lana’i to Oahu, continues to make its way through the state Legislature. Maui Now.

Kauai

With the exception of strength in the visitor industry, economic growth on Kauai is expected to remain sluggish in the coming months, according to a forecast released Tuesday by the Kauai County Office of Economic Development. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua‘i’s economy will remain flat in coming months, according to a report released Tuesday by the county’s Office of Economic Development. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. used a weather metaphor on Tuesday, the start of fiscal year 2013 budget talks that will continue through April 19, comparing the storms that pounded the island in early March to “weathering the storm” of providing services in a battered economy. Garden Island.

County parks workers brought in heavy equipment Tuesday to begin clearing vegetative debris at the popular Morgan’s Ponds swimming areas at Lydgate Park, where “no swimming” signs have been posted since March 29. Garden Island.

Hawaii library closures top Friday morning news

The state Board of Education heard a proposal yesterday by the state librarian to close five branches to cut the budget.

The Board of Education yesterday heard a proposal from State Librarian Richard Burns to close five public libraries and negotiate furloughs and other salary savings to reduce the Hawai'i State Public Library System's budget by more than $5.7 million.

The board that oversees Hawaii's public libraries was told Thursday about a proposal to close five libraries statewide to deal with budget cuts.
The libraries that could be closed are Ewa Beach on Oahu, Holualoa, Pahala and Kealakekua on the Big Island, and Hana on Maui.

Avoiding a possible shutdown of public schools on Sept. 21, members of the state Board of Education passed a $1.8 billion budget for 2009-2010 that covers a $226.85 million shortfall and includes reducing about $117.4 million in labor costs.

Faced with the most drastic budget cuts ever to the state's public education system, the Board of Education approved a plan yesterday that includes about $117 million in yet-to-be negotiated labor savings — from potential pay cuts to furloughs of teachers and administrators.

Isolating Gov. Linda Lingle, county mayors and the leaders of several independently governed state agencies have agreed on a framework for new contracts with public-sector labor unions aimed at addressing the state's budget shortfall.

Hawaii's four mayors on Thursday called on Gov. Linda Lingle to personally attend an on-the-record negotiation session next week now that state employee unions have submitted what the mayors called a viable preliminary proposal on pay cuts or furloughs

Big Islanders may soon be allowed to live in tents or other temporary structures while building a home of their own

On war duty in Iraq, troops from Hawaii, including several from Maui, plan to share their aloha by celebrating next month's 50th anniversary of statehood.

Two horses were shot in Wailua late Wednesday or early Thursday, owners and police say.

Top Hawaii Headlines: Friday morning edition

The U.S. military is positioning more missile defenses around Hawai'i as a precaution against a possible North Korean launch across the Pacific, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said yesterday.

Hawaii's Pacific Command, closely monitoring events in North Korea, says it is "in good position" to respond if called upon by the Pentagon.

The U.S. military is tracking a ship from North Korea that could be carrying illicit weapons, the first vessel monitored under tougher new U.N. rules meant to rein in and punish the communist government following a nuclear test, officials said yesterday.

The state Board of Education last night voted 8-4 to approve controversial changes to the public school system's disciplinary rules, including allowing for suspicionless locker searches and drug-sniffing dogs.

If the courts don't stop her, Gov. Linda Lingle will set in motion two years of "furlough Fridays" for at least 15,600 state employees

Gov. Linda Lingle yesterday rolled out the details of her furlough plans for state workers, announcing that many state departments would close on three Fridays a month starting in July while others would modify or adjust operations to minimize the disruption to the public.

Many state workers are upset about the furloughs, since they amount to essentially a 14-percent pay cut, but they also worry the public will face service reductions when departments and offices are closed three days a week.

West Maui state Rep. Angus McKelvey said he wants the Legislature to go into an emergency special session to deal with the state's $2.7 billion revenue shortfall and Gov. Linda Lingle's plan to furlough state workers beginning July 1.

In a cost-savings measure, the state office of elections plans to close a little more than 60 polling places, with all of them being on Oahu.

The state Office of Elections is proposing eliminating 66 voting precincts statewide for next year's elections in an effort to cut costs

More than 150 people heard impassioned speeches Wednesday night in Hilo on a proposal to bring the Thirty Meter Telescope to the Big Island.

The Hawaii County Council's controversial reorganization has triggered an investigation and one lawmaker's allegation that the leadership change was illegally orchestrated.

For schoolchildren, the game of "telephone," is an amusing party pastime. But when county council members employ it as a pre-meeting meeting, it violates state Sunshine Laws.

The draft environmental assessment for the proposed midlevel Kona road is out, charting a route from Henry Street to Hina Lani Street, skirting a burial site and shifting makai near the northern end to avoid bisecting a dryland forest.

A family feud simmering since last year’s mayoral election boiled into a Carvalho-versus-Carvalho harassment arrest, with the father of Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. turning himself in at Kaua‘i Police Department headquarters in April.

A Kalihi man is in police custody, accused of sexually assaulting three elderly women at a senior living complex.

Top Hawaii Headlines: Wednesday morning edition

When DLNR Director Laura Thielen asked the state Legis-lature for $240 million in bond money to fix Hawai'i's aging state parks and harbors, she said some parks would have to close without the new money.

The state Board of Education last night postponed a decision on controversial amendments to the public school system's disciplinary rules — including changes that would allow for student locker searches and drug-sniffing dogs.

Curbside recycling will likely be restored for Waipahu and the Waianae Coast

The first two Big Island cases of swine flu were among 14 new cases reported yesterday by the state Department of Health.

A Maui man, who's accused of flying to Oahu to have sex with a child, made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.

It's a tell tale sign of the recession - a drop in book sales has library use up.

Experienced horseman Edward "Eddie" Wilson was identified Tuesday as the man who fell to his death while riding his horse in Haleakala Crater on Monday afternoon.

A 9-year-old child was rescued Monday after he accidentally slid down a 100-foot embankment in Laupahoehoe

If Stephen “Dr. Beach” Leatherman went to Po‘ipu Beach Park today, just eight years after naming it the nation’s top beach, he might not recognize the place.