Showing posts with label smoking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label smoking. Show all posts

Monday, February 3, 2020

House Health Committee calls briefing today on coronavirus as airport clamps down on travelers, Caldwell outpaces others in fundraising for 2022 gubernatorial race, Amemiya raises most for Honolulu mayor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii news all rights reserved
Hawaii Capitol ©2020 All Hawaii News
Health Committee to Hold Briefing on Coronavirus. Rep. John M. Mizuno, Chair of the House Health Committee, will hold an informational briefing on the 2019 Coronavirus outbreak in China and the measures being taken by the State of Hawaiʻi at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3. Maui Now.

New entry restrictions begin at 11 US airports, including Honolulu, amid growing coronavirus fears. New entry restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of the deadly coronavirus begin Sunday across the US, including at Honolulu’s airport — which has been designated as one of just 11 facilities in the country that will accept travelers from China. Hawaii News Now.

Flights from China to Honolulu suspended. Direct flights from China to Hawaii have been suspended as federal and state officials ramp up their response to preventing an outbreak of the coronavirus in the isles. Star-Advertiser.

“We’re concerned about our own health,” Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant says that they can’t wear masks. The new quarantine procedures the airport concern not only have travelers but also its workers. We’re told that flight attendants have voiced concerns about not being able to wear masks on Asia flights. KHON2.

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Bill that would establish camera enforcement at traffic lights moves forward. A proposal to have camera-enforcement at traffic lights moved forward at the state Capitol on Friday. The cameras would record vehicles that run red lights in urban Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Red-light-camera bill advances in Legislature. Hawaii counties would be authorized to establish three-year programs to test out a new photo enforcement system for ticketing people who run red lights under a bill that won preliminary approval last week from the House Transportation Committee. Star-Advertiser.

New bill would limit ‘revolving door’ for lobbyists. A bill that would limit the ability of state lawmakers and top state officials to leave their government jobs and then quickly go to work lobbying the state Legislature is advancing in the state Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Gun rights advocates rally at the state Capitol. Opponents of new and more restrictive firearm laws for Hawaii rallied at the state Capitol last week to protest a wave of proposed gun-related legislation. Star-Advertiser.

Firearms incidents decline on Hawaii’s public school campuses. The number of students caught carrying any kind of “firearm,” including paintball guns, or even slingshots, has dropped to its lowest level in 10 years at Hawaii’s public school campuses. Star-Advertiser.

Legislation seeks to continue flying isle homeless back home. Since 2014, private and public Hawaii funds have paid for half of the airfare to send 744 homeless people back to their families on the mainland and to the Federates States of Micronesia — without any obligation from Hawaii of prearranged jobs or housing support. Star-Advertiser.

Raise Hawaii’s Smoking Age From 21 To 25. The proposed legislation would apply to electronic cigarettes as well as tobacco. Civil Beat.

State gets mixed grades on tobacco control. The American Lung Association recently released its annual “State of Tobacco Control” report, giving Hawai‘i various grades for five categories and calling for proven tobacco-control policies in light of the worsening youth-vaping epidemic in 2019. Garden Island.

Caldwell Raises Nearly $300K For 2022 Governor’s Race. The Honolulu mayor has far outpaced others who have lined up this far in advance. Civil Beat.

Multiple jobs. Doubling up. Hawaii adults say they’re doing it all and still struggling. Seven in 10 Hawaii adults are struggling with their financial health and more than half say their spending equals or exceeds their income, according to a new survey that underscores just how broadly the state’s high cost of living is affecting families. Hawaii News Now.

State employee fined for pushing workers to buy cars from friend. The Occupational Health Branch manager for the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations’ Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health Division has been ordered to pay a $1,000 penalty for driving two probationary employees on separate occasions to a used car dealership owned by a friend to buy vehicles they were not required to have as part of their jobs. Star-Advertiser.

Scientists Say Many Rat Lungworm Cases In Hawaii May Go Unreported. Costly and strict diagnostic protocols mean a long wait to find out if someone has the disease. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Amemiya Raises Most Campaign Cash In Honolulu Mayor’s Race. Hawaii’s business elites are lining up behind one of their own, giving him an edge on Councilwoman Pine and former Congresswoman Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

Defense Attorney Kau Leads Honolulu Prosecutor’s Race In Campaign Cash. Political newcomer Megan Kau brought in more money than a well-known former judge. Civil Beat.


State lawmaker wants to help HPD recruit and retain officers with surcharge bill. What to do about the on-going police shortage on Oahu. KITV4.

City: We want to expand appointment-only bulky item pickup islandwide. The city is extending appointment-only bulky item pickup for urban Honolulu “indefinitely," and said it’s working to expand the system islandwide. Hawaii News Now.

North Shore farmland being carved up for crop, housing use. Some North Shore community leaders complain that David Taogoshi is driving up the price of farmland by acquiring 30-acre to 300-acre tracts of former sugar cane and pineapple plantation fields for relatively little money and dividing them into mainly 2-acre and 5-acre pieces for sale as attractive home sites. Star-Advertiser.

Kobayashi Group to develop 400 affordable rentals in West Oahu. The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday approved a resolution authorizing Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration to enter into a development agreement with Kobayashi Group entity KG Kapolei Parkway LLC for the project. Pacific Business News.

Saint Francis School campus in Honolulu to go on the market for sale in Q1. The campus is sandwiched between the University of Hawaii Manoa campus and Manoa Hillside Estates, a gated community of 62 homes, in an affluent neighborhood where many homes sell for $1 million or more. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Vacation rental denials appealed. Appeals are pouring in from vacation rental owners who were denied permits, with the county Board of Appeals agenda including 25 contested cases for its Feb. 14 meeting in Kona. West Hawaii Today.

League of Women Voters seeks smooth transition to mailed ballots. Although Hawaii Island, along with the rest of the state, has been voluntarily transitioning from walk-in voting to mail-in ballots over the past 20 years, the local chapter of the League of Women Voters is concerned some voters may be left behind in an election offering only two locations for on-site voting. West Hawaii Today.

Clarification of herbicide policy sought. After a ban on the use of herbicides by county workers was definitively quashed last month, two Hawaii County Council members are introducing a resolution that will clarify the county’s position on herbicide use. Tribune-Herald.

Puna meeting to focus on broadband access, telehealth. Discussion will turn to health and technology later this month at a town hall meeting about telehealth and broadband service in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Council to discuss status of closed beach parks. Two North Hilo beach parks long closed to the public will be the subject of an hourlong presentation next week by the county Department of Parks and Recreation. Tribune-Herald.

Jensen named West Hawaii Today editor. Chelsea Jensen has been promoted to editor of West Hawaii Today. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui visitors break 3 million mark for first time. Report also shows record spending. Maui News.

Oyster Pilot Project Launched on Maui to Improve Water Quality. An innovative pilot project that uses oysters to improve water quality at Maui’s Maʻalaea Harbor was launched on Friday by the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council. Maui Now.

Whale researchers present factors to fewer sightings. Three humpback whale researchers will be presenting information on a collaborative study on factors contributing to the decline in observed sighting rates of humpback whales in Hawaii and Alaska from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Maui Ocean Center.  Maui News.

Kauai

Farmers Fight To Keep Irrigation System Running. The state has announced its intent to shut down key reservoirs if the Legislature and a water cooperative don’t find a solution. Garden Island.

The Garden Island newspaper lands new editor. he Garden Island has named reporter Jessica Else as the new editor-in-chief. Garden Island.

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Supreme Court: Hawaii B&B must allow gay couples; lava takes charter school, beach park; Honolulu City Council flouts Sunshine Law; smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco banned at universities; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Lambda Legal
Diane Cervelli and Taeko Bufford were denied by B&B PC: Lambda Legal
Hawaii Supreme Court sides with lesbian couple in B&B case. A state appeals court ruling that a bed and breakfast discriminated by denying a room to two women because they’re gay will stand after the state’s high court declined to take up the case. Associated Press.

6 candidates for Hawaii's First Congressional District share stance on local issues. Ed Case, Doug Chin, Donna Mercado Kim, Kaniela Ing, Beth Fukumoto and Ernie Martin. KITV.

State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim and Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin blasted government bureaucracy and regulatory agencies such as the state Land Use Commission for hamstringing development in Hawaii at a forum for congressional candidates sponsored by local building and real estate trade groups. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Politicians Turn Digital Ads Into A Fundraising Bonanza. Federal candidates, from Tulsi Gabbard to Kaniela Ing, are spreading their messages across the U.S. in the attempt to build name recognition and raise money. Civil Beat.

Challenger criticizes Tulsi Gabbard for avoiding debates prior to primary election. Hawaii News Now.

Smoking and tobacco use, including vaping, is officially banned on all 10 of the University of Hawaii’s campuses under a new law. Star-Advertiser.

All University of Hawaii campuses and properties are now smoke- and tobacco-free. A new law prohibiting smoking and tobacco use on UH premises was passed by the Legislature in May and signed this week by Gov. David Ige. Tribune-Herald.

As of July 10,2018, tobacco use is banned at all 10 University of Hawaii campuses statewide, and the new rules include e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco. KHON2.

Sales at Hawaii’s six medical marijuana dispensaries totaled $6.7 million in the past 10 months, and their earnings are likely to grow with two changes to the state’s cannabis law. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health to Implement New Retail Medical Cannabis Rules. Hawaii’s six operating retail Medical Cannabis Dispensaries are now selling products that function like inhalers or nebulizers. Hawaii Public Radio.

State to implement changes to medical cannabis law. KHON2.

For the military, including Rim of the Pacific exercise participants, there’s a whole lot of emergency, disaster response and mass casualty practice going on this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii mac nut industry cracks $50 million in sales. Rising prices for macadamia nuts helped Hawaii farmers generate record revenue last year, according to a new federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Office of Elections Conducts Drive-Thru Voter Registration. The State Office of Elections is conducting drive-by voter registration on Oahu, the Big Island, Maui and Kauai. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Attorney General’s office is proposing fines of more than $135,000 against two nonprofits for multiple alleged violations of the state’s charitable solicitation laws. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Mayor’s Islandwide Crackdown On The Homeless Rolled Out For Council. Two measures from Kirk Caldwell targeting homeless people in public places receive initial approval. Civil Beat.

City Council Ignores Open Meetings Law To Hear Bike-Sharing Bill. Chairman Ernie Martin convinced his colleagues to hear the bill one day after it was introduced. A minimum six-day notice is required. Civil Beat.

City Releases Plan for Ala Moana Park Renovations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu's shopping bag ban could be having an unintended consequence. Businesses say the new law makes it makes it much tougher to spot thieves. Hawaii News Now.

Families of victims killed in Marco Polo fire to file lawsuit. On July 14, 2017, Britt Reller, Melba Dilly, and Joann Kuwata were killed after the fire ripped through their apartments. Marilyn Van Gieson died several weeks later after suffering smoke inhalation. KHON2.

One year later, we relive the Marco Polo fire that claimed lives and changed laws. KITV.

Hawaiian Heiress’s Charity Board Heads to Court In $215 Million Trust Case. A new board of directors for Princess Abigail Kawananakoa’s charity wants to be included in ongoing battle for control of her trust. Civil Beat.

A mountain of trash and a broken restroom. Welcome to Keehi Lagoon Beach Park. People who frequent an Oahu park say the city needs to take better care of the scenic spot. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Community Development Authority board of directors on Wednesday voted to approve the appointment of Aedward Los Banos as executive director of the state agency responsible for overseeing development in Kakaako, Kalealoa and Heeia on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Servco Pacific Inc. held a blessing ceremony to mark the completion of Hawaii's first publicly accessible hydrogen station, located at the its corporate offices in Mapunapuna. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A popular Puna beach park that was home to a unique warm pond, as well as beloved public charter school facility, were both taken by lava on Wednesday evening. Big Island Video News.

After weeks of steadily flowing to the ocean in a self-contained channel, lava from fissure 8 began spilling over into Leilani Estates, destroying more homes in the subdivision, according to Hawaii County officials. Star-Advertiser.

The community has anxiously watched and waited as lava from fissure 8 inched toward the ocean — and closed in on the Kua O Ka La Public Charter School. Hawaii News Now.

County approaches Shipman about housing for evacuees. Hawaii County is looking beyond public lands for a potential land swap with Puna residents who lost their homes to lava. Tribune-Herald.

Incidents add to stress at lava shelters. During the 10 weeks since emergency evacuation centers opened in a hurry to house people chased from their homes by the Kilauea eruption, Hawaii County police were called 118 times to the sprawling Pahoa shelter, and another 21 times to the much smaller shelter in Keaau. Star-Advertiser.

With concerns over looting growing on Hawaii island, police are urging homeowners and renters within the eruption zone to report apparent looting as soon as possible. Hawaii News Now.

Work began this week to upgrade the long-delayed Kuawa ball fields in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A two-vehicle head-on collision late Tuesday afternoon on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road, killed a highly regarded scientist and critically injured a well-known local musician. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

It is unclear how much of the remaining $46,000 of the $100,000 county grant awarded to Council Member Alika Atay’s executive assistant will be disbursed, the county Office of Economic Development director told a council committee Wednesday. Maui News.

Charges were dismissed Wednesday against a Haleakala telescope protester when a judge ruled that more than six months had passed without the defendant’s case going to trial. Maui News.

A three-word agenda item involving “proposed rule amendments” that the state Office of Information Practices warned might run afoul of the Sunshine Law was deleted by the liquor commission from Wednesday’s meeting. Maui News.

The National Science Foundation Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope takes shape as work continues atop Haleakala. Maui News.

KCA will present candidates forum. Maui News.

Kauai

Affordable housing plan rejected. Fiscal responsibility framed the Kauai County Council’s Wednesday decision to reject placing a charter amendment on the November ballot that would have allocated 3 percent of real property tax revenues to affordable housing. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council Wednesday voted down a proposed $475,000 infusion into The Kauai Bus to expand weekend services. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. signed a third supplementary emergency proclamation on Wednesday for the County of Kauai in order to continue relief efforts for damages sustained during the April flood. Garden Island.

Lanai

The OHA Board of Trustees will hold a public meeting on Lanai on Thurs., July 12, 2018. Maui Now.

Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Former House Speaker Souki ousted in sexual harassment settlement, Ige's homeless budget decimated as model camp closed, big tobacco tax hikes advance, plus much more top political and government news from all the Hawaiian Islands

official portrait
Former House Speaker Joe Souki, official portrait
Former House Speaker Joseph Souki will be required by the Hawaii State Ethics Commission to resign from office next week to resolve a complaint involving accusations from multiple women who allege they were the targets of his unwanted advances that included sexual comments, touching and kissing, according to people familiar with the agreement. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii House Speaker Forced Out Over Sexual Harassment. Several women had filed ethics complaints against Joe Souki, a longtime lawmaker from Maui. Civil Beat.

Veteran Maui lawmaker and former Speaker Joe Souki will resign from the state Legislature later this month, following a state Ethics Commission settlement of a sexual harassment complaint against him. Maui News.

Long-time lawmaker and former house speaker Joe Souki of Maui will resign from his legislative post amid a state Ethics Commission settlement over allegations of sexual harassment. Maui Now.

House Harassment Policy Puts Speaker In Charge Of All Complaints. The internal process for resolving sexual harassment complaints in the House doesn’t anticipate what happens if the speaker is the one being accused. Civil Beat.

Souki accuser is moved by other women’s stories of harassment at state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

Read full text of Souki settlement here.

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House members have decimated Gov. David Ige’s budget request for programs benefiting the homeless and that prioritize finding permanent housing, and instead want to spend $30 million to create an unknown number of zones sanctioned for homeless encampments across the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Bill Allows Fines For Those Who Falsely Claim To Have Service Animals. People increasingly bring untrained animals into public accommodations claiming they are service animals, say measure supporters. Civil Beat.

Teachers push to reduce standardized testing for Hawaii public schools. Rally planned today. KHON2.

Smokers may soon be paying more for cigarettes — a lot more. The House Health and Human Services Committee passed Senate Bill 2843 with amendments on Tuesday to significantly increase the state tobacco licensing fee. Hawaii News Now.

The House Health &Human Services committee on Tuesday passed Senate Bill 2843 SD1 with amendments to increase the annual license fee for tobacco wholesalers and dealers from $2.50 per year to $500 per year. The measure also raises the tax on cigarettes and little cigars from 16 cents per cigarette or little cigar to 22.5 cents each, or $3.20 per pack to $4.50 per pack. Garden Island.

Proposed Bill Would Prohibit Smoking on All UH Campuses. Maui Now.

Hawaii workers would have access to several weeks of paid time off for the birth or adoption of a child or to care for a family member under proposed legislation advancing in both the House and Senate. Star-Advertiser.

The NRA Is Giving Hawaii Schools A Lot Of Money. Most of the National Rifle Association dollars flowing to schools throughout the country pay for competitive shooting programs. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The former police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife are refusing to cooperate with a lawsuit they initiated against the Honolulu Ethics Commission. Hawaii News Now.

A contentious plan for a widened Ala Moana Regional Park pedestrian promenade — which would result in the elimination of parking stalls along the makai side of Ala Moana Park Drive — may be on the way out. Star-Advertiser.

It's Your Money: City shells out tens of millions of dollars in overtime pay.  According to a new audit, the city paid $66.41 million to cover extra hours on the clock last fiscal year. KHON2.

Dole Food Co. Inc. has agreed to pay a fine for failing to close two large-capacity cesspools at a private beach park in Waialua on Oahu’s North Shore. Under the terms of a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Dole will pay a $145,000 fine for violating the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday said reached a settlement with Dole Food Co. Inc. for failing to close two large-capacity cesspools at its Puuiki Beach Park property on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Dole Foods has reached a settlement with the Environmental Protection agency after it failed to close two large cesspools at Puuiki Beach Park. Hawaii News Now.

State: Burial backlog at veterans cemetery better, but long-term fixes needed. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County on Tuesday closed Camp Kikaha in the Old Kona Industrial Area, a temporary homeless encampment located adjacent to HOPE Services Hawaii, after operating the site for more than seven months. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Closes Its ‘Safe Zone’ Homeless Experiment. For seven months Kailua-Kona’s 1-acre government sanctioned homeless encampment sheltered about 25 people. Civil Beat.

Camp Kikaha For Kona Homeless Closes Down. An emergency proclamation enabling the camp has since expired, and the County is no longer allowed to continue operations at the site. Big Island Video News.

A temporary homeless shelter on the big island is closed and the homeless have been moved out. KHON2.

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The Hawaii County Prosecutor’s Office will not handle a case involving a Hawaii police officer as a person of interest in a missing drug evidence investigation within the department. West Hawaii Today.

Mac nut company to buy back shares in going private. Royal Hawaiian Orchards LP announced Monday that it will remove its partnership shares from trading on an over-the-counter stock exchange following a move to buy out many small shareholders. Star-Advertiser.

Tons of debris removed from Ka'u shores. Ten volunteers from the Hawaii Wildlife Fund gathered 11.6 tons of seaborne waste from Ka'u shores before shipping it March 4 to Oahu for recycling. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A state panel voted Tuesday to set new flow levels for four West Maui streams — this time without the decadeslong legal battles that have characterized the fight over East Maui streams. Maui News.

Kauai

Nishimura files for County Council. Leadership from the heart for Kauai residents is why Kapaa resident Wally Nishimura has filed to run for Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

The Kauai Department of Public Works, Wastewater Management Division is advising residential and commercial sewer customers located in Eleele, Hanapepe and Waimea of an incorrect address printed on the remittance envelope included in their sewer bills dated March 15, 2018. KHON2.

Kauai rally part of nationwide call for gun reform. Garden Island.

Lanai

Billionaire Oracle Corp. cofounder Larry Ellison this week launched his latest startup, which will focus on automated, hydroponic indoor food production. Los Angeles-based Sensei plans to build 10 greenhouses, totaling 200,000 square feet, on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. Ellison owns 98 percent of the island. Pacific Business News.

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Schatz, Congressional reps push for federal responsibility for missile alerts; police have job protections, Ige appoints new budget chief, Big Island council pans GET hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park 2018 All Hawaii News
The National Park Service is proposing a Tri-Park Pass fee increase from $30 to $50 for Hawaii parks, starting May 1. Star-Advertiser.

The new interim head of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has taken over, but Brig. Gen. Moses Kaoiwi said ballistic missile alert drills will stay on hiatus until he is assured that the department has a new action plan and the proper resources to move forward. Star-Advertiser.

There have been no new death threats this week against the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and its employees over the Jan. 13 bogus missile alert, but state officials want police to track down people who may have crossed the line in venting their frustrations in the aftermath. Star-Advertiser.

In response to Hawaii’s false missile alert in January, Hawaii’s congressional leaders are pushing for legislation that would call for major changes in alerting the public should a missile attack actually happen. Hawaii News Now.

Schatz introduces legislation requiring federal government responsibility over missile alerts. KITV.

Schatz pushes for federal control of missile threat alert systems. West Hawaii Today.

Calling the Jan. 13 false missile alert an unfortunate event, Gov. David Ige says the state has been busy building a better emergency warning system. Garden Island.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige on Tuesday appointed Laurel Johnston to serve as the director of the state Department of Budget and Finance. Pacific Business News.

The Army has a navy in Hawaii, and on Tuesday it formally welcomed its third 273-foot logistics support vessel, a flat-bottom cargo transport ideal for the islands and shallow-water littorals and ports of the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New HPD Report Shows Just How Hard It Is To Fire A Bad Cop. Dozens of Honolulu Police Department officers are disciplined each year but a lengthy appeal process often delays final decisions. Civil Beat.

The police union has filed a legal complaint with the state labor board claiming its leaders are being mistreated by HPD's new chief. Hawaii News Now.

House Committee Advances Red Hill Fuel Tank Regulations. The Board of Water Supply is continuing its push for legislation to upgrade the Navy’s Red Hill Fuel Storage tanks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Multiple state and county agencies are now investigating after three children whose fathers work at the same Waipahu fire house fell ill with bone cancer. Hawaii News Now.

Female Athletes Get The Short End Of The Stick At Some Hawaii High Schools. Federal law requires gender equity, but that’s not happening in places like Campbell High School. Civil Beat.

Mother: School discriminated against disabled son by not allowing him on a field trip. Hawaii News Now.

Boy denied social security card due to complications with long Hawaiian name. KHON2.

Residents frustrated with abandoned car ‘graveyards’ across Oahu. KHON2.

Oahu condo prices set record in January. The median price for condominiums sold in January reached a new high of $430,000 off a 13.2 percent gain over the $380,000 median price in the same month last year, according to a Honolulu Board of Realtors report released Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Jeff Perkins has been named general manager of Honolulu's Queen Kapiolani Hotel, which recently began a $35 million renovation that was first announced in July. Pacific Business News.

New owners put sidelined food trucks back in service. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council advances tax increase, but with negative recommendation. West Hawaii Today.

A discussion on a proposed, county-level general excise tax became heated on Tuesday, as the Hawaii County Council Finance Committee met in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

A Hawaii County Council committee advanced bills Tuesday allowing the Pahoa District Park to host a farmers market and renaming two park facilities, including one in honor of the late Dorothy Thompson. Tribune-Herald.

In June, Puna Kai shopping center will hand over store pad sites to Malama Market and Aloha Petroleum for their own construction, the developer told the Tribune-Herald on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

The mother of Peter Kema Jr., aka “Peter Boy,” has been ordered to report to Hawaii Community Correctional Center Wednesday morning for violating conditions of her HOPE probation. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Bill 6, which will make it illegal for adults to smoke in a vehicle when a minor is present, has passed Maui County Council. Maui Now.

Anaergia, Maui EKO open green waste dialogue. Meetings aimed at continuing green waste processing at landfill. Maui News.

Commercial waste haulers need to pay fees. Maui News.

An estimated 75 applicants and families attended a lottery event for the Kahoma Village development held on Jan. 26, in West Maui. Maui Now.

Maui Electric Co. said Tuesday it has agreed to buy electricity from a grid-scale solar and battery energy storage facility to be built by Molokai New Energy Partners. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Electric Company has agreed to buy electricity from a grid-scale solar and battery energy storage facility to be built by Molokai New Energy Partners, a project company representatives say could lower the island’s electric bills. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Imperiled Legacy Of The Hanapepe Salt Flats. The last frontier of a centuries-old Hawaiian tradition is threatened from the air, from the sea, and from broken beer bottles. Civil Beat.

A bill proposed by the County of Kauai Parks and Recreation Department could end peddling at county parks, playgrounds, other facilities and beaches, including the concessions sold at Spouting Horn Park. Garden Island.

Gov. David Ige stopped by the Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital to visit the resident population of about 50, the hospital’s staff, and view work being done with the $6.6 million Capital Improvement Project appropriation by the Legislature. Garden Island.

Ige, teachers on same page. Garden Island.

The median price of a single-family home on Kauai jumped by 22 percent last month to $770,000, compared to January of last year, while sales of both single-family homes and condominiums declined, according to statistics provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Friday, September 29, 2017

Land Board approves Thirty Meter Telescope permit, Honolulu police chief candidates narrowed to seven, tourism above expectations, Jones Act debated, Kona water woes continue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Artist's conception of Thirty Meter Telescope
The state Land Board will require the University of Hawaii to remove three telescopes atop Mauna Kea and create new educational programs as conditions for allowing construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

In a 5 to 2 vote, the Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources concurred with the recommendation of contested case hearing officer Riki May Amano, approving a Conservation District Use Permit to build the Thirty-Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources has approved the application for a permit to build the Thirty Meter Telescope atop Mauna Kea, a move that was vehemently opposed by some environmentalists and Native Hawaiians who consider the mountain sacred. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Board of Land and Natural Resources on Thursday granted a construction permit for a giant telescope on a mountain that some Native Hawaiians consider sacred, a project that has divided the state. Associated Press.

The state Land Board voted 5 to 2 in favor of approving the construction permit for the controversial telescope. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources on Thursday approved a permit that will allow construction of the controversial Thirty-Meter Telescope to continue near the summit of Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources on Thursday said it has voted 5-2 to approve a conservation district use permit for the Thirty Meter Telescope, which would allow the $1.4 billion project to begin construction near the summit of the Big Island’s Mauna Kea volcano. Pacific Business News.

A major decision on the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope, the State Land Board says "build it". KITV.

Advocates of the Thirty Meter Telescope applauding the state land board's decision Thursday to move forward with construction atop Mauna Kea. Meanwhile, those against the project vow to continue their fight. Hawaii News Now.

Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope vowed Thursday to take their case to the Hawaii Supreme Court following the approval of the project’s construction permit by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources. Star-Advertiser.

Full DLNR news release and order on the Thirty Meter Telescope here.

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Hawaii tourism celebrated its best month ever in July, but the fireworks continued into August, which was another boom month for the key state industry. Star-Advertiser.

Monthly visitor spending increased by 6.1 percent year-over-year to $1.39 billion last month as Hawaii welcomed a total of 818,581 visitors, an increase of 4.8 percent, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. The figure represents an increase of 6.1 percent compared to August 2016. Pacific Business News.

University of Hawaii economists have weighed in on the state’s economy, and the story is a familiar one: Slowing growth, a tourism industry exceeding expectations and a once-booming construction sector that appears to be leveling out. Star-Advertiser.

Typically, it’s been limited to debate in Hawaii, Alaska and U.S. island territories — but this week the rest of the country is suddenly getting a crash course in the Jones Act. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 300 species of fish, mussels and other sea critters hitchhiked across the Pacific Ocean on debris from the 2011 Japanese tsunami, washing ashore alive in the United States, researchers reported Thursday. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s public school students continue to show growth on Advanced Placement Program Exams. Garden Island.

How Hawaii Schools Are Rethinking Social Studies. Teachers supplement history lessons with real-world projects that encourage students to take action in their communities. Civil Beat.

Undercover stings help health officials enforce new age limit for smokers. KHON2.

Oahu

Seven candidates are now left in the closely watched search for Honolulu’s next police chief, a post that’s been vacant since the end of February. The finalists are retired Drug Enforcement Agency Agent Thomas Aiu, current HPD Maj. Susan Ballard, retired HPD Maj. Kurt Kendro, retired HPD Assistant Chief Kevin Lima, retired Pennsylvania State Police Maj. Mark Lomax, current Arlington (Texas) Police Department Deputy Chief Jim Lowery and retired HPD Deputy Chief Paul Putzulu. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Commission announced Thursday it will interview seven candidates to become the city’s next police chief, a process that will take place behind closed doors. Civil Beat.

The list of candidates considered for the next Honolulu police chief have been narrowed down to seven, the Honolulu Police Commission announced on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Commission has narrowed the field of candidates for Honolulu's top cop down to seven. KITV.

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A judge has at least temporarily blocked the city from releasing the names of current and past undercover officers at the request of the statewide police union. Civil Beat.

Starting Sunday, Honolulu’s bus system will no longer accept paper transfers, asking riders who seek transfers to purchase a 1-Day Pass instead, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

2 years after Accessory Dwelling Units law passes - little to show. To date the city program has produced only 67 units. KITV.

Three nonprofit groups that rely on federal funding administered by the city worry their money could be delayed this year, affecting clients as soon as Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Working to help get Hawaii's homeless off the streets. KITV.

The Army said today that operations to retrieve wreckage and crew from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter that crashed at sea off Kaena Point Aug. 15 have ended with only trace remains of the five soldiers aboard recovered. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu-based Alutiiq General Contractors LLC Thursday received a nearly $26.9 million construction contract from the U.S. Department of Defense. Pacific Business News.

The Pacific Beach Hotel will reopen next month as the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach following a $115 million redevelopment that began in 2016. Pacific Business News.
https://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/news/2017/09/28/pacific-beach-hotel-transforms-into-the-alohilani.html

The Hawaii Convention Center's new wooden basketball court has a shiny look and smells of fresh lacquer. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Water service disruptions threaten North Kona as two deep well repairs progress. West Hawaii Today.

As the Emergency Water Restriction remains in effect for North Kona, officials have started to see a decline in the water level in some tanks. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County is ramping up awareness next month about the threat of little fire ants. Tribune-Herald.

The state Public Utilities Commission announced the end of a popular solar energy incentive program on the Big Island last week. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A community meeting is planned to discuss community design as part of the update of the West Maui Community Plan on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the West Maui Senior Center at 788 Pauoa Street, Lahaina. Maui Now.

Ground is scheduled to be broken this morning for the Kalama Kai residential workforce housing condominium project in Kihei. Maui News.

Maui’s visitor arrivals and spending were up in August, one of the state’s traditionally busy summer months, compared with August 2016, the Hawaii Tourism Authority reported Thursday. Maui News.

Space surveillance experts convene at 18th AMOS conference in Wailea. Maui News.

Gov. David Ige said he’s none too worried about the threat of nuclear attack, but said that as a state, “it’s better to be prepared than not.” Maui News.

Due to crowded conditions at the Maui Humane Society, the organization is seeking immediate short-term foster homes for dogs. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai continues to enjoy a strong tourism season. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, visitor arrivals on Kauai totaled 111,904 for August, a 6.7 percent increase over last August. Garden Island.

Sustainable Food Movement Flourishes On Kauai’s North Shore. A community garden and incubator lots are just the beginning, say organizers looking to answer “big questions about things like food security.” Garden Island.

Thursday, July 27, 2017

Hearings officer gives thumbs-up for Thirty Meter Telescope, Kauai man gets 4 years prison for harassing monk seal, 3-hour wait in line for Dunkin' Donuts, Honolulu $1.5M in arrears in collecting subsidized rents, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Telescopes on Mauna Kea © 2017 All Hawaii News
The Thirty Meter Telescope received a positive recommendation from hearings officer Riki May Amano, buoying the beleaguered project’s chances less than a year from a self-imposed construction deadline. Tribune-Herald.

A former Hilo judge is recommending the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project be granted a key state permit for work atop Mauna Kea, ending a lengthy contested case hearing that challenged the $1.4 billion project’s conservation district use permit. Star-Advertiser.

A construction permit should be granted for the Thirty Meter Telescope proposed for the summit of Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island, a hearings officer recommended Wednesday. Associated Press.

A retired Hawaii judge is recommending that the state land board approve a permit for the Thirty Meter Telescope, which would allow construction of the $1.4 billion observatory to proceed on a site atop Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

The hearing officer in the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing has issued her decision, and is recommending a Conservation District Use Permit be granted, allowing the observatory to be built on Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

A former Circuit Court judge has recommended that the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project be allowed to move forward atop Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

A hearings officer is recommending that a construction permit be granted for a giant telescope planned for a Hawaii mountain summit that some consider sacred. KITV.

The contested case hearing officer for the Thirty Meter Telescope is recommending that the controversial project move forward. KHON2.

Read the judge's full 305-page Thirty Meter Telescope report here.

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Community Services Block Grants: $3.7M Funding Uncertain. A joint legislative committee conducted a hearing on the status of federal funding for impoverished residents throughout the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii residents can stay up-to-date on more than 170 highway and road projects with a new interactive online map unveiled this week by the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Matson Inc. plans to speed up its ocean cargo service to the Republic of the Marshall Islands early next year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A federal program administered by Honolulu to subsidize rents for low-income people has $1.55 million in delinquent accounts but doesn’t have a debt collector, according to a city audit released this week. Civil Beat.

Officials with Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration told the City Council Public Works, Infrastructure and Sustainability Committee on Wednesday that they will look at ways of expanding sewer capacity on Oahu in response to concerns that applicants for accessory dwelling units are being turned away because of the limitation. Star-Advertiser.

Two Honolulu City Council members have introduced legislation that would ban cigarette smoking in motor vehicles carrying children under 18. Star-Advertiser.

A new bill introduced by two Honolulu City Councilmen takes aim at smoking in vehicles while a minor is present. Hawaii News Now.

City council considers banning smoking in vehicles in presence of minors. KHON2.

Using an electronic device while crossing the street on Oahu will soon be illegal. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is expected to sign into law Bill 6 Thursday, which bans pedestrians from using cell phones and other electronic devices while crossing the street. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell will sign Bill 6 into law Thursday afternoon. The law makes it illegal to look at a cellphone or other electronic devices while crossing a street or highway on Oahu. KITV.

It could soon cost businesses more to sell alcohol on Oahu. That’s because the fee to hold a liquor license may be going up, in some cases double what it is now. KHON2.

Group Pushes Street-Level Rail For Honolulu. Salvage the Rail proposes ditching the over-budget elevated railway plan in much of the city. Civil Beat.

On Oahu, the latest report by the Honolulu Board of Realtors found there was 2.7 months of remaining inventory for single-family homes and 2.8 months of remaining inventory for condos, meaning that if no more listings came on the market, the homes would sell out in that amount of time. Those numbers have been less than three months for nearly a year. Pacific Business News.

Olomana golf course appeals to state, military on flooding and late rent. Star-Advertiser.

The Diamond Head Lighthouse that stands today has been a lifesaving navigational beacon for the past 100 years, preventing vessels from running aground on the jagged reef over which it presides. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Honolulu residents waited up to three hours Wednesday morning to get their hands on freshly made Dunkin' Donuts at the company’s opening of the first Hawaii store in more than 10 years. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Smoke caused evacuation of the control room of the Keck 2 telescope atop Mauna Kea Wednesday afternoon. Tribune-Herald.

After months of planning and discussion, Hawaii County is moving forward with plans to clean up the Old Airport Park. West Hawaii Today.

A smarter, stronger, more reliable electrical grid is the goal of Hawaiian Electric’s modernization plan to be discussed during two public meetings next week on Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Wide loads of materials for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope will close Haleakala’s summit to visitors from 10 p.m. Tuesday through 2 p.m. Wednesday, according to an announcement from the National Park Service. Maui News.

County considering an expansion of ag park with former sugar land. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines is seeking candidates for customer and ramp service contract positions at Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Building A ‘Farewell Place’ For Maui Pet Owners. A woman gathers a group of volunteers to construct a facility at the Humane Society where people can say goodbye. Civil Beat.

Kauai

A 20-year-old Eleele man has been sentenced to four years in prison for harassing a pregnant Hawaiian monk seal on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Fifth Circuit Judge Kathleen Watanabe on Wednesday sentenced 20-year-old Shylo Kaena Akuna of Lihue to serve four years in prison for harassing a critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal last year at Salt Pond Beach Park in Hanapepe, Kauai. Civil Beat.

A Lihue man accused of beating up a monk seal will serve four years in prison. Garden Island.

County approves collective bargaining agreement. Some Kauai council members do not believe it is the right time to approve firefighter raises. Garden Island.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources removed nearly 11 tons of garbage from the Napali Coast in ongoing efforts to clean up the area DLNR officials reported Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Friday, December 9, 2016

Hawaii seniors most fit, money for military, union wins hospital smoking judgment, Akana named OHA chairwoman, new Big Island police chief, E. coli in Maui water, 5k pound fishnet pulled off Kauai shore, big plans for Kakaako park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Kupuna hula © 2016 All Hawaii News
Hawaii leads the nation for the highest physical well-being for older residents, a new report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's military installations will receive more than $277 million in construction under the defense spending bill passed by the U.S. Senate Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii ranks among the top 10 states for percentage of households with wired and wireless broadband access at speeds in excess of 25 megabits per second, according to a study by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation. Pacific Business News.

After winning a judgment from the Hawaii Labor Relations Board, a public employees union says its members shouldn’t have to follow a recently enacted state law that prohibits smoking at 12 medical facilities in the islands. Civil Beat.

The State Building Code Council proposed to update the minimal requirements for building construction and design to the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code. If approved, all state buildings will have to comply with the new code. Star-Advertiser.

Veteran trustee Rowena Akana was elected chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees on Thursday, edging out incumbent Chairman Robert “Bob” Lindsey of Hawaii island during a rancorous meeting that saw three members walk out in protest. Star-Advertiser.

At-Large Trustee Rowena Akana
was elected as the new chair of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees Thursday. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking public input regarding the latest overview of forest lands throughout the islands. Tribune-Herald.

The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission wrapped up its annual meeting Friday as it often has in the past, with many of its international members and nonprofit advocates frustrated by the slow progress made on pressing issues like tuna overfishing and overall accountability on the high seas. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Clearly, something is going down at the BOE, and David and Dawn Ige are in the thick of it, though all we get is ham-handed obfuscation and frustrating denials. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A major plan to overhaul the park spaces near the waterfronts in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako that includes a sports complex, a beer garden and food concessions, cleared a big hurdle after receiving the approval from the governor. Pacific Business News.

Drug raids target public housing. Star-Advertiser.

Multiple arrest warrants were issued Thursday morning in connection with a drug operation in Honolulu, according to the FBI. KITV.

Two nonprofit organizations hope to provide farm-fresh produce and job training opportunities for the needy through a planned community farm on 14 acres of vacant state land in Waimanalo. Star-Advertiser.

Two Hawaii nonprofits plan to lease 14 acres from the state for a community farming project that includes a learning center in Waimanalo in Windward Oahu, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The University of Hawaii Manoa’s Graduate Student Organization is pushing to return Dole Street, a major road through the campus, to its original Hawaiian name. The name Kapaakea has ties to the area’s Native Hawaiian history, while Dole symbolizes American oppression of the Hawaiian people, students said. Civil Beat.

City officials Thursday confirmed that an estimated 201,600 gallons of untreated sewage spilled onto about an acre of vacant land near the Ko Olina Golf Club after a sewage main broke last week. Star-Advertiser.

Lots of golfers were happy when the Ala Wai Golf Course driving range reopened on Monday, Dec. 5.KHON2.

Hawaii

The county Police Commission unanimously selected Deputy Police Chief Paul Ferreira on Thursday to succeed his boss, Chief Harry Kubojiri. Tribune-Herald.

One of former Mayor Billy Kenoi’s last actions Monday was to veto a bill that would have given the County Council more say over the hiring and firing of the county’s civil attorneys. West Hawaii Today.

Tsunami Scare As Mayor Kim Seeks Civil Defense Admin. Big Island Video News.

A Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative representative said Thursday he is under a “cone of silence” regarding efforts to acquire Hawaii Electric Light Co. Tribune-Herald.

At a memorial service Thursday, one theme emerged over and over about the departed Dr. Cliff Kopp, who during his last decade of life was widely regarded as one of Hawaii Island’s most prolific community advocates. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Department of Water Supply detected E. coli bacteria in the ʻUalapuʻe Shaft on Molokaʻi. Maui Now.

Native Hawaiian beneficiaries on Maui are supporting a rule change that would prevent the sale of empty and undeveloped homestead lots, saying that selling lots allows wealthier families to jump past those who’ve sat on the waiting list for years. Maui News.

Kauai

The community is invited to a celebration of Tim Bynum’s life at 4:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at Lydgate Park’s main pavilion. Garden Island.

5,000 pound fishing net pulled from waters off Kapaa. Garden Island.

Friday, November 18, 2016

Hawaii homeless moving to neighbor islands, tourism economy perking, smoking rate drops, Hawaii senators fight Trump official's internment camp talk, $4M Ala Moana rail fix, Thirty Meter Telescope hearings pause until December, fire ants found on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2016 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Kauai view © 2016 All Hawaii News
National Geographic Traveler magazine on Thursday released its rundown of 21 “Best of the World” must-see destinations for 2017, and Kauai is one of three U.S. locations on the list. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii economy is expected to finish the year slightly stronger than previously projected, with tourism and construction fueling the growth. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s economy is moving forward with stable growth due to an increase in jobs, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s quarterly statistical and economic report released Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu’s homeless population grew by less than 1 percent from January 2015 to January 2016, but an increase of homeless people living on the neighbor islands boosted Hawaii’s overall rate to a 4 percent increase, according to federal data released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.
©2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii saw its homeless population grow another 4 percent from 2015, federal officials announced today, making the islands only one of 14 states and territories — and Washington, D.C. — that saw their homeless numbers grow. Star-Advertiser.

HUD homeless report can be found here.

Hawaii is one of only 13 states whose homeless population has grown since 2010, according to a new state-by-state report to Congress. Hawaii News Now.

The Aloha State has among one of the largest increases in homeless individuals in the nation, according to a report from the Department of Housing and Urban Development Thursday. Garden Island.

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Hawaii’s two U.S. senators joined a growing chorus of politicians and civil rights organizations Thursday in condemning comments made by a prominent supporter of President-elect Donald Trump that suggested World War II-era Japanese internment camps could serve as a precedent for creating a federal registry for Muslim immigrants in the United States. Associated Press.


U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono has called on President-elect Donald Trump to rescind his job offer to former Breitbart News chief Stephen Bannon. Associated Press.

A Civil Beat analysis of election results and U.S. Census data found that President-elect Donald Trump tended to do well in some of the most affluent parts of the state, where many tourist accommodations are located. They include parts of the Princeville and Hanalei area on Kauai; Kapalua, Kaanapali and Wailea on Maui; and the Kailua-Kona area on Hawaii Island.


Hawaii’s adult smoking rate has dropped 17 percent in a decade to one of the lowest in the country, and the state will now focus its efforts on specific groups that haven’t kept up with the societal shift, including Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ala Moana Center management officials estimate it will cost about $4 million to make repairs and improvements to faulty railings at the state’s largest shopping mall, and the work will likely run well into, if not beyond, the holiday shopping season. Star-Advertiser.

Will Residents Ever Feel Safe In This Downtown Honolulu Park? In a scenario that plays out in many parts of downtown and Chinatown, nearby residents are afraid to go to Kamalii Park. Civil Beat.

The Whitmore Project fits in with a statewide priority of seeing through and achieving the state’s goal of doubling food production by 2030. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. opened two mobile chargers to the public Thursday. HECO and Energy Excelerator — a Honolulu-based program that helps energy startups — sponsored the chargers stationed at the Honolulu Airport Trade Center. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Beer Co., headed by Hawaii real estate executive Steve Sombrero and noted brewer Dave Campbell, is reopening in Honolulu, this time in the neighborhood of Kakaako, once home to the state’s booming beer business, Sombrero confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Installing water bottle filling stations at Hawaii County parks and encouraging use of an anti-littering phone app are among the recommendations of the county’s packaging waste task force. Tribune-Herald.

A contingent of wounded veterans and their families trooped to the testimony table Wednesday, and one by one, gave tearful gratitude to the promise of a new Purple Heart memorial planned for the West Hawaii Veterans Cemetery. West Hawaii Today.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources Contested Case Hearing on the Thirty Meter Telescope project proposed by the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, wrapped up for the month and will resume in December. Big Island Now.

A highly anticipated witness took the stand during the Thirty Meter Telescope contested case hearing on Wednesday. Wally Ishibashi – the senior advisor for the Office Of Mauna Kea Management – is a longtime supporter of TMT, dating back to his union days with ILWU Local 142. Big Island Video News.

Thanksgiving came a week early in Kona, as Hope Services Hawaii hosted the 19th annual Homeless Luncheon and Resource Fair Thursday at the Old Airport Pavilion. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Community College departments partner to serve up local produce. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Little Fire Ant Infestation Found on 12 Acres in Kapalua, Maui. Maui Now.

A new infestation of the little fire ant has been found on Maui. Maui Watch.

A Maui County Council committee Tuesday deferred a resolution to grant a lease to redevelop the Old Maui High School campus, which sits vacant in Hamakuapoko. Maui News.

Kauai

According to the annual Point in Time count released in June, there was 442 homeless people on Kauai in 2016, a 30 percent increase from last year’s figure of 339. Garden Island.

Kapaa Beach Park substation sold for $1,125 at auction. Old police substation to be moved. Garden Island.