Hawaii Democrats unify after bruising primary election, Land Board approves food trucks at state parks, big plans for Waikiki Shell, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Democratic Party rivals break bread after primary election. Adversaries tried to remember they were friends Sunday during the Democratic Party of Hawaii’s Unity Breakfast, a bittersweet ritual held for decades the morning after the primary election. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s gubernatorial race should be cordial unless it becomes close. The campaign to become Hawaii’s next governor should be a genial contest compared with the testy Democratic Party primary gubernatorial campaign — unless the race suddenly tightens between Lt. Gov. Josh Green and former Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona ahead of the Nov. 8 general election. Star-Advertiser.

General election candidates for Hawaii Legislature include 64 Republicans. Now that Hawaii’s 2022 primary election is over, most voters will have an opportunity to choose between a Democrat and a Republican candidate to represent them in the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

The Number Of Ballots Cast Was Down This Year. Despite mail-in voting again this election, turnout fell off from the last election which featured a presidential race. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Schatz: New Climate Bill Is ‘An Incredible Economic Opportunity’ For Hawaii. The bill seeks to reduce drug prices and force certain corporations to pay more taxes. It also injects a record $369 billion into the fight against climate change, Schatz’s top policy priority. Civil Beat

Land board OK’s proposal for food trucks in state parks. The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted Friday to open solicitations for bids by food truck operators seeking to operate in 18 state parks. Tribune-Herald.

Housing study cites government barriers. High housing demand, heightened by low supply, drives up Hawaii’s home prices, not out-of-state buyers, according to new research released today by the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Navy’s deep ship graveyard in Hawaii continues to grow. The service was unable to provide an exact figure when asked how many ships it has sunk in and around the Hawaiian Islands. In an emailed response, a Navy spokesperson said that “since the early 2000’s, the Navy has conducted an average of two SINKEX’s in the Hawaiian Islands Range Complex each even-numbered year, when RIMPAC exercises are held.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City proposes more than $11.67 million in upgrades to Waikiki Shell. The city is proposing more than $11.67 million in improvements to the Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell that would include installation of a tensile structure over the main seating area and an additional 2,000 fixed seats. Star-Advertiser.

Traffic expected as students move into UH Manoa. The University of Hawaii at Manoa said that there may be traffic delays around the UH Manoa campus as they are expecting about 3,500 students to move in. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Extension frustration: Bill seeks to curb automatic rezoning time extensions. A bill proposed by North Kona Councilman Holeka Inaba aims to address a common complaint among West Hawaii residents that developers’ rezoning applications, once approved, get numerous time extensions without regard to how conditions and infrastructure may have changed in the intervening five, 10 or even 25 years. West Hawaii Today.

PGV to Host Community Meeting About Pending EIS Preparation Notice. Puna community members will have the opportunity this week to comment about an environmental impact statement preparation notice being prepared by Puna Geothermal Venture. Big Island Now.

BLNR approves land lease for Waikoloa Public Library. The Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday voted unanimously to approve a request by the state to lease gratis — without charge — about 2 acres from Hawaii County during its semi-monthly meeting in Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

Judge releases redacted document from Ireland case. Hilo Circuit Judge Peter Kubota has released a redacted version of a document apparently related to post-conviction DNA testing performed in the Dana Ireland murder case. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Prosecutor’s Alleged Harassment Dates Back Years. In addition to an ongoing harassment dispute with his Paukaa neighbor, deputy prosecutor Winston Albright had allegedly harassed neighbors in the Puna District where he previously lived. Civil Beat.

Maui

With lack of teachers, preschool program keeps some centers closed. A local nonprofit’s preschool program has enough federal funding to serve 219 children this school year but only has the capacity for 160 due to the closure of three centers and lack of teachers. Maui News.

Hawaiian crow may soon soar on Maui. One of the rarest birds in the world may soon fly through the remote, forested slopes of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Federal law could lead to lower energy prices on Kaua‘i. Climate provisions in the federal Inflation Reduction Act, which passed both chambers of Congress last week, could lead to lower energy prices on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Food trucks could come to state parks, hospitals still at capacity, sea level rise threatens Waikiki beach clubs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach state park ©2022 All Hawaii News

Agency seeks food truck concessions at state parks. The Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks is seeking approval to allow mobile food trucks to operate at 18 state parks across the islands. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

FBI wants to partner with Hawaii businesses, organizations to deter cyberattacks. The Federal Bureau of Investigation wants to partner with Hawaii businesses as part of a nationwide effort to combat the cyberthreat posed by China and other actors working to undermine the U.S. economy and compromise critical infrastructure. Star-Advertiser.

Outside Spending Reaches Historic Levels In Race For Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. With the election just days away, special interest groups keep trying to sway the election in their favor. So far they’ve spent nearly $1.4 million. Civil Beat.

Campaign Spending Commission investigates ‘ghost PAC’ supporting Cayetano. The state Campaign Spending Commission on Wednesday voted to conduct further investigation into a so-called “ghost PAC” helping Democratic gubernatorial candidate Vicky Cayetano. The political action committee ― Victory Calls 2022 ― ran television ads in May featuring the comedy duo Da Braddahs, saying Cayetano’s opponent Lt. Gov. Josh Green was not a board-certified physician. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Better Access To Public Records Among Proposals From GOP Candidates For Governor. Transparency and government ethics has taken center stage in many races following high profile corruption cases in Hawaii, including the Republican gubernatorial primary. Civil Beat.

Masks optional for children under age 5 in preschool or child care center. Since the beginning of August, K-12 students have had the option of wearing a mask in school. But preschools and child care centers still had to follow the old guidelines. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii hospitals still at full capacity despite declining COVID-19 case counts. Hawaii hospitals are still struggling with staffing shortages even as the daily average of COVID-19 case counts appears to be on its way down. Star-Advertiser.

Novavax COVID-19 vaccine now available in Hawaii. The Hawaii Department of Health today announced that scheduling opportunities are now available for the more traditional COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii averaging 50 COVID deaths per month this summer. COVID deaths are still coming in at an alarming rate on the islands. The Hawaii Department of Health reported 14 deaths this week, as the state has averaged 50 deaths per month since May. KHON2.

Hawaii Department of Health reports 3,189 new infections, 14 coronavirus-related deaths. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, continued its downward trend to 12.4%, compared to 13.8% reported the previous week, representing tests performed between Aug. 2 to 8. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Two Of Waikiki’s Oldest Beach Clubs Are Struggling To Come To Grips With Climate Change. In a precursor of business decisions that will become more common, members of the Outrigger Canoe Club have rejected a proposal to extend the club’s lease with its landlord beyond 2055 due to concerns about sea level rise. Civil Beat.

Kailua House Candidates Want To Tame Tourism. A microcosm of the state’s own dilemma, Kailua’s fresh batch of House candidates are strategizing ways to manage guests visiting their slice of paradise. Civil Beat.

Consumer prices still rising in Honolulu, but not as much. Honolulu’s inflation rate ebbed a bit in June and July from the previous two months, but prices for goods and services are still broadly rising, a new government report shows. Star-Advertiser.

In space-cramped Honolulu, community gardens have found new popularity ― and meaning. The city’s community gardens are bursting at the seams and more than 1,000 people are on the waiting list to get a plot of their own, said Honolulu Parks and Recreation spokesperson Nate Serota. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council adopts resolution to enforce rules, address concerns at Keaau Beach Park. Keaau Beach Park, which is past Makaha on the Waianae coast, has its share of problems, including illegal dumping, illegal camping, illegal fireworks, burnouts and street racing. But a city council resolution hopes to address those problems. KITV4.

Fourth graders name monk seal pup born at Kaimana Beach. Two weeks after a seal and her pup teamed up on a woman swimming off Waikiki, fourth grade students from Waikiki Elementary School on Wednesday gave the pup, PO8, a more apt name: Koalani, or “heavenly warrior.”  Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Testifiers blast TMT project: Opponents dominate National Science Foundation meeting to determine whether federal funding will be used. The first public meeting to determine whether to award federal funding to the Thirty Meter Telescope ended Tuesday after four hours of outrage. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County Sees Decrease in Processed Firearm Applications. Hawai‘i County had the highest denial rate of firearm applications at 5.6% statewide for 2021, according to data released by the Department of the Attorney General. Big Island Now.

New old buses on the way: County set to accept Honolulu hand-me-downs while awaiting new new buses. Eight more old buses will soon be on their way to the Big Island, with the County Council set to accept the donation of used buses from the City and County of Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

Kimball, challenger Martinez discuss issues ahead of primary. With only two candidates on the ballot, the race will be decided during the primary election on Saturday, with the council seat going to whichever candidate receives more than 50% of the vote. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Warns Lanai Resorts To Not Block Public Beach Access. The company said it closed the park because of flooding. A resident says the gate stayed shut after the water receded. Maui County has issued a warning and told Lanai Resorts, the company owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, to stop blocking access to Hulopoe Beach Park or risk facing a fine of $100,000, plus an additional $10,000 for each day it goes unaddressed. Civil Beat.

Maui County had record 8,149 firearms registered in 2021. In 2021, Maui County had record high numbers for firearm permits processed (2,938), firearms registered (8,149) and firearms imported (3,763), according to an annual report released today by the Hawaiʻi Department of the Attorney General. Maui Now.

Maui police seek to crack down on law-flouting dirt bikers. The Maui Police Department is warning the public about a growing and dangerous trend around the Valley Isle. Officers are concerned about thrill-seeking dirt bikers who are blatantly breaking traffic laws. Hawaii News Now.

Final EA published for Kēōkea Farm Lots Association community center. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has published its final Environmental Assessment with a Finding of No Significant Impact for the proposed Kēōkea Farm Lots Association Community Center in Kēōkea on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

DLNR agrees to audit of all large-capacity cesspools, $105,000 fine. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources $105,543 for failing to close an illegal large-capacity cesspool on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Higher park fees sought, health care workers arrive, Kauai could get $1.9B missile radar, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A steward directs traffic at Pololu lookout ©2022 All Hawaii News

Higher park fees sought for tourists in Hawaii. With tourism arrivals forecast to reach just below 10 million by the end of 2024 — and the state prohibited from limiting the number of visitors — some legislators feel pressure to expand parking and user fees at state parks designed to charge tourists for their impact on state lands. Star-Advertiser.

Biden's climate agenda is stalled in Congress. In Hawaii, one key part is going ahead. The federal Energy Information Administration estimates that 77% of Hawaii's power comes from burning fossil fuels, mostly oil and some coal. With a state deadline of getting the utility to 100% renewables by 2045, Hawaii will need to shut down oil and coal plants early. Hawaii Public Radio.

Broadband and telecommunications projects to benefit Hawaiian homestead families. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and the Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations recently announced two separate projects for beneficiaries. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

New incentives could come for teachers as staffing issues continue at Hawaii public schools. The DOE said it has hired nearly 2,000 teachers this school year. As of Jan. 11 there are nearly 4,000 substitute teachers available. KHON2.

Gambling Is Illegal In Hawaii. But Las Vegas Is Only A Plane Ride Away. Hawaii residents pump millions of dollars a year into southern Nevada’s economy. Would any of that money come home if Hawaii legalizes gambling? Civil Beat.

Menstrual Equity Measure Expected To Be On Legislative Agenda This Year. Advocates say providing free menstrual products in public schools is a health issue that needs to be addressed. Civil Beat.

Health care reinforcements begin arriving. The first wave of health care personnel from abroad has arrived in Hawaii to help care for patients, just ahead of what some say is an expected peak in daily coronavirus cases this week. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Green touts ‘boosted or tested’ for Safe Travels. It’s time to require travelers to Hawaii to have a coronavirus booster shot or to be subject to pretravel testing or quarantine upon arrival, according to Lt. Gov. Josh Green. Tribune-Herald. KITV4.

Hawaii sees 4,700 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 174,586. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 3,679 new cases on Oahu, 254 on Hawaii island, 495 on Maui, 181 on Kauai, 23 on Molokai, five on Lanai and 63 Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kealoha settlement was rushed past Honolulu Police Commission. The private negotiations resulting in the $250,000 retirement settlement for former police Chief Louis Kealoha were handled by the city’s former corporation counsel and Police Commission chairman before the proposal was given to commissioners shortly before they voted on it, according to a former commissioner. Star-Advertiser.

Board gives positive review of Honolulu rail authority CEO, but staffing questions remain. Members of the board of directors of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation generally praised the performance of Lori Kahikina as Interim CEO although Board Chair Colleen Hanabusa raised questions about staffing levels at the rail transit organization. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu nursing homes facing COVID-19 crisis. As more workers get infected or exposed to the virus, many residents are then being repeatedly isolated. KITV4.

Kamaaina investor sells Pagoda Hotel to another. A local investment company has bought the 12- story Pagoda Hotel in Honolulu from Hawaii developer Peter Savio. Star-Advertiser.

Gun Found at Honolulu Airport Makes TSA Top 10 List of 2021 Catches. The firearm, built into a belt buckle ranked seventh on TSA’s list. According TSA oiffcials, A .22 caliber Derringer was found in the carry-on luggage of a person ticketed for travel to San Francisco International Airport. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island

Council hopes to hear Roth’s legislative priorities today. With the legislative session kicking off Wednesday, the County Council has been eager to hear about Mayor Mitch Roth’s priorities for Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

Paul Horner named CEO of Hawaiʻi Island's public access TV station. Horner replaces Connie Kiriu, who has been serving as interim CEO since April of last year. Previous CEO Stacy Higa stepped down after allegations surfaced that he diverted federal coronavirus relief funds to himself. Hawaii Public Radio.

Councilman criticized for social media post. A County Council member representing Puna received criticism on social media for a post appearing to downplay the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccinations. Tribune-Herald.

These Ka’u Kids Are Learning Outside Of The Classroom. When things were not looking great for students at Ka’u High & Pahala Elementary School, the teachers took their lessons to the region’s roots — agriculture. Civil Beat.

Cleanup continues. The Big Island may have escaped major damage Saturday when a tsunami triggered by a volcanic eruption in Tonga reached Hawaii, but the event should serve as a reminder for newcomers and residents alike to be prepared for natural disasters. West Hawaii Today. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Maui

Recently retired 2nd Circuit Court Chief Judge Bissen to run for Maui mayor. Prior to Bissen’s appointment as 2nd Circuit Court judge, he served as the interim director for the state Department of Public Safety and as the first deputy attorney general for the state, according to a biography on the state judiciary website. Maui Now.

Ban on spectators at Maui high school sporting events prompts pleas to reconsider. Thousands of Maui parents, including Maui County’s mayor, are asking Maui Interscholastic League officials to reconsider its latest policy which prohibits all spectators at all sporting events regardless of vaccination status. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kauai residents raise concerns over planned $1.9 billion missile radar. Some are worried that the federal Missile Defense Agency’s proposal to build a $1.9 billion missile defense radar at the Navy’s Pacific Missile Range Facility could result in less access at productive fishing grounds. Star-Advertiser.

Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School goes remote. The move is due to a growing number of students, teachers and staff affected by COVID-19 isolation and quarantine requirements. Garden Island.

Entangled whale spotted off Kauai; authorities attempt to free it. Off Kauai, New drone video showed a giant whale entangled in marine debris. The mammal was seen about 300 feet off Brennecke’s Beach in Poipu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii braces for COVID-19 spike from mainland, state hits record voter turnout, Honolulu mulls public transit fare hikes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Socially distanced witches celebrate Hawaii Halloween PC: Royelen Lee Boykie from Facebook

 Officials say Halloween parties could lead to small spike in cases. Many people had a relaxing Halloween and followed local health guidance by staying at home, but there were several large parties that officials said could lead to a small spike in cases in the next few weeks. KHON2.

'It's a threat to us': Hawai'i experts urge public to follow restrictions amid mainland Coronavirus crisis. Coronavirus cases are soaring across the country--putting some states in crisis mode--and some fear the surge could spread to Hawai'i. KITV4.

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Perfect storm results in record voting in Hawaii. A convergence of forces has turned chronic voter apathy in recent years in Hawaii into record ballots cast — even before Tuesday’s general election. Star-Advertiser.

Fee hikes at state parks are no help without tourists. Tourism is back — somewhat — but it’s going take months before the state parks system is able to enjoy any windfall from an increase in fees that went into effect Oct. 9. Star-Advertiser.

Snail mail no longer only way to alert state of wrongdoing. The Regulated Industries Complaints Office of the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has introduced an online portal dubbed “U-Tip” that eliminates the need for the public to mail written complaints or tips about suspected improper regulated work to the agency. Star-Advertiser.

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State looks to bridge digital divide with mobile learning hubs. In order to bridge that digital divide, the Department of Education has set up mobile learning hubs in communities on the Big Island and Oahu to ensure all needs are met. Hawaii News Now.

Failing A Class Could Get Your Student Back To School Sooner. Failing marks can now fast-track some kids to in-person instruction so they don’t suffer trying to learn from home. Civil Beat.

‘Stressed And Overwhelmed’: Hawaii’s College Students Confront The Pandemic. Stress, anxiety and trauma have been compounded during an academic year unlike any other. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — Nov. 1: 83 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Hawaii health officials reported 83 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, including one on Kauai, 53 on Oahu, 26 on Hawaii island and three Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Increased fares for Oahu public transit introduced in City Council. The Honolulu City Council will consider increased fares for public transportation after two bills were recently introduced. Star-Advertiser.

Easy Targets? Some Oahu Homeless Have Been Ticketed Dozens Of Times During The Pandemic. A Civil Beat analysis of court data on HPD’s pandemic enforcement shows homeless people account for nearly 25% of pandemic violations despite making up less than 1% of the population. Civil Beat.

Leadership qualities, rail and COVID-19 dominated mayor’s race. Tuesday’s general election will determine who takes over the third-floor corner office at Honolulu Hale when Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s second term ends Jan. 2. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s visitor industry slowly reopening. Waikiki wasn’t exactly raining visitors Sunday, but there were some signs that the launch of the state’s pre-arrival testing plan has brought some green shoots. Star-Advertiser.

Bars frustrated at paying liquor license when they've been closed much of the year. They can't use it now, but some bars say it's harder to renew a lapsed liquor license, so they keep paying for a license they can't currently use. KITV4.

With construction tying up coveted spaces, weekend parking at popular park is a bear. Weekend parking has always been a scarce commodity at Ala Moana Regional Paark. But ongoing construction has made it’s even more of a headache. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Three lawsuits filed against PGV. A trio of lawsuits have been filed in Hilo Circuit Court, requesting an environmental review be completed before Puna Geothermal Venture, which was partially destroyed by lava two years ago, is allowed to produce electricity. Tribune-Herald.

Building code won’t meet deadline. Hawaii County is not going to meet a state-imposed deadline to revamp its building code and two county council members are prevailing upon Gov. David Ige to allow an extension. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiʻi County Asks Governor To Suspend New Building Code Deadline. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County Council Requests Extension to Update Building Code. Big Island Now.

Election deadline nears: Host of federal, state and local races to be decided Tuesday. It’s not even Election Day and Hawaii County voters have already surpassed the voter turnout of the last presidential election. West Hawaii Today.

Puna roundabouts could face delays due to pandemic. State legislators had allocated $30 million in capital improvement funding earlier this year to widen Keaau-Pahoa Road, or Highway 130, from two lanes to four lanes. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Guzman cites ongoing friction with Victorino. Mayor seeking to remove prosecutor; council to decideMaui County Mayor Michael Victorino is seeking to remove Prosecuting Attorney Don Guzman because he allegedly raised his voice during a meeting to reprimand a deputy prosecutor, amid a backdrop of disagreements between Guzman and Victorino in recent months, Guzman said Friday. Maui News.

State retirement fund abandons plan for Maui golf course redevelopment. The owner of the Royal Kaanapali and Kaanapali Kai golf courses, an investment fund for Hawaii public-­sector worker entitlements, recently notified another state entity that it is no longer pursuing a conceptual plan to add a hotel, about 150 to 250 condominiums and other amenities around reconfigured golf operations. Star-Advertiser.

Retail, restaurants see a sales bump with visitors back. But crowds add to business challenges with pandemic-era rules, safety concerns. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai sees low percentage of mainland visitors participating in post-arrival testing. Post-arrival COVID-19 testing has been taking place at state and county levels for the past two weeks. KHON2.

Kauai Bets Big With CARES Money To Boost Local Beef Industry. Kauai County has committed nearly $4 million of its allocation of $28.7 million in state money under the CARES Act to try to rejuvenate Kauai’s agriculture industry by helping some of the largest operations on the island and some of the smallest. Civil Beat.

Kaua‘i Rise Initiative gets federal funds. The Trump administration recently announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing $966,540 in three projects in the state, including the county Office of Economic Development’s Kaua‘i Rise Initiative. Garden Island.

Still time to register, vote. It requires a trip to the Voter Service Center in Lihu‘e, proper photo identification and a few other requirements, but there is still time to register and vote in Tuesday’s general election. Garden Island.

Lanai

Nearly 400 COVID-19 Tests Administered on Lāna‘i During Mass Testing on Saturday. Well over 3,000 tests have been administered on Lānaʻi since the beginning of the outbreak. There were no positive cases reported today on the island. Maui Now.

Hundreds turn out for Lana'i mass testing event. Nearly 400 COVID-19 tests were administered to Lanai residents on Saturday during a six-hour mass testing event aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. KITV4.

Bad behavior, spiraling COVID-19 cases, has Hawaii officials clamping down, rethinking lifting quarantine, may close parks and beaches again, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Kai on Sunday. PC:JW Facebook post

Large weekend gatherings cause concern over enforcement of COVID-19 restrictions. Several large gatherings across the state are drawing criticism. KITV4.

A surge in COVID-19 cases causes state officials to consider tighter restrictions. Ige also said he might delay the state’s plan to waive on Sept. 1 the 14-day quarantine for transpacific visitors who test negative for the coronavirus. State officials said Monday they’re aiming to step up enforcement of COVID-19 rules against social gathering — especially at the beaches — following what Gov. David Ige called a tough week of more than 500 cases, including a single-day record of 207 announced on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Health Dept.: Hawaii residents acting ‘like there isn’t a pandemic we are dealing with’. With another record-setting number of new cases reported in Hawaii this week, coronavirus is now ‘entrenched in our community,’ state officials said Monday ― and Hawaii residents, they claim, are letting down their guard at the worst possible time. Hawaii News Now.

As state plans reopening, Health Director says COVID-19 ‘endemic’. Gov. David Ige indicated Monday the Sept. 1 date to allow trans-Pacific air travel without a 14-day quarantine for visitors who get a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding a Hawaii-bound plane isn’t written in stone. Tribune-Herald.

State Health Director Warns Coronavirus Is Widespread On Oahu. The governor says more needs to be done to slow down the spread of COVID-19 in Hawaii, but did not announce any new actions on Monday. Civil Beat.

Quarantine loopholes continue as more visitors, residents enter the state. Despite the state’s ongoing mandatory quarantine, there was a big jump in visitor numbers over the weekend. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, 1,701 visitors arrived in the state between Aug. 1-2, 2020. KHON2.

Hawai‘i Health Director on COVID-19: “Weak Link is Prevention”. The governor pointed out it is a result of community spread and that people have been relaxing and letting their guard down. Maui Now.

Gatherings On Oahu Limited To 10 Or Fewer. People who gather in groups larger than 10 risk a $5,000 fine or up to a year in jail. Civil Beat.

DOH director meets with Honolulu officials, beach closures could be next. As tens of thousands of tourists would be doing in any other given year, Hawaii Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Anderson set his sights on beaches Monday. KHON2.

COVID-19 hospitalizations increasing across Oahu. After multiple days of COVID-19 numbers in the hundreds, major hospitals in Oahu like Queen’s Health Systems, Hawaii Pacific Health and Kaiser Permanente Hawaii all say they have seen a rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations over the past few weeks. KHON2.

Officials threaten to close more state parks if people continue large gatherings. State officials are threatening more enforcement on Hawaii’s beaches and at state parks after seeing large gatherings on shorelines over the weekend.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i counted 207 new cases of COVID-19 Monday, shattering the statewide record for daily coronavirus figures, but it won’t change day-to-day life on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

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Members of State House of Representatives and state economist say public should know 'where' and 'how' people are contracting COVID-19. On Monday members of the State House of Representatives COVID-19 team stated publicly that they want the Department of Health to release more information about where and how people are getting sick with the coronavirus in Hawai'i. KITV4.

House COVID-19 Committee: We Need More Info From Health Department. House Speaker Scott Saiki says he is concerned that the state Department of Health is refusing to release the kind of information people need to make good decisions. Civil Beat.

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Governor Ige Questioned On Pandemic Restrictions. Representatives of various Hawaiʻi business associations on Monday had the chance to directly question Governor David Ige on some of the State's COVID-19 policies. Big Island Video News.

State needs additional contact tracers, critics say. As Hawaii’s COVID-19 counts surge — there were more than 500 new cases over the past week, including 207 on Monday alone — frustrations are mounting that the state doesn’t have enough contact tracers to prevent officials from reverting to lockdowns to contain the spread. Star-Advertiser.

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State has another record reporting day. The highest, single-day record of new positive COVID-19 cases is being reported by the Dept. of Health today, at 207. Garden Island.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 3: 207 New Cases, More Than Half From Delayed Results. Nearly all the cases are on Oahu, where there have now been 2,083 cases identified since March. Civil Beat.

The Latest: 207 Cases; 9 First-Responders COVID-19 Positive; Lag In Tests Impacting Contact Tracing. Hawaii Public Radio.

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30,000 isle workers may have opted out of job market in July. With COVID-19 cases surging and Hawaii’s economy struggling, as many as 30,000 workers could have taken themselves out of the state’s labor market last month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines possible layoffs revealed. Employees could be laid off as early as October. Employees from Daniel k. Inouye, Hilo, Kahului, Kailua-Kona and Lihu'e airport are expected to be affected along with employees from the corporate headquarters in Honolulu. KITV4.

Hawaii students create a youth-oriented voter guide. A hui of college and secondary school students known as Ho‘ohuli have created an online voter guide geared toward their generation and the mission embodied in their name, which means to turn, to change or to reform. Star-Advertiser.

Vintage warbirds populate Navy flattop for 75th anniversary end-of-WWII events in Hawaii. Fourteen vintage warbirds, including a polished aluminum 1944 B-25 bomber, are headed to Hawaii courtesy of U.S. Navy lift on the amphibious assault ship USS Essex for aerial flyovers commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Civil Beat/HNN Poll: Blangiardi Holds Double-Digit Lead In Honolulu Mayor’s Race. But Hanabusa and Amemiya are tied for second and will likely force a runoff in November. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat/HNN Poll: Steve Alm Still Ahead In Race For Honolulu Prosecutor. Building on a lead that was clear in May, former judge, prosecutor and U.S. attorney Steve Alm is well ahead of his five main competitors for Honolulu prosecutor. Civil Beat.

Andria Tupola, Calvin Say lead Council candidates in campaign spending. Two candidates for Honolulu City Council who have extensive political track records are the ones collecting and spending the most, according to financial reports filed with the state Campaign Spending Commission last week. Star-Advertiser.

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Sacred Hearts Academy confirms student tested positive for COVID-19. Sacred Hearts Academy revealed a student tested positive for COVID-19 on Aug. 2. KHON2.

Some worry ‘there’s no contingency plan’ for COVID at Hawaii’s public housing. An employee at Mayor Wright Public Housing has tested positive for COVID-19 and some are concerned about how the Hawaii Public Housing Authority is handling the situation. Hawaii News Now.

Ward Village condo sales still rising despite COVID-19. Honolulu’s biggest condominium tower producer is selling more new homes despite the coronavirus pandemic that has sapped much of Hawaii’s economy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

South Kohala Court Closes After Employee Tests COVID-19 Positive. The courthouse, located in the Waimea Civic Center complex, will be closed on Tuesday, after the first confirmed case of a Judiciary employee statewide. Big Island Video News.

South Kohala District Court Closed After Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19. A South Kohala District Court employee has tested positive for COVID-19, the Hawaii State Judiciary announced today. This is the only confirmed case of any Judiciary employee statewide. Big Island Now.

Responsible tourism: County lays out five-year plan for visitors, residents. Hawaii County last week released its five-year strategic tourism plan, a guiding document to help ensure responsible tourism that respects the Big Island’s communities and natural and cultural resources. Tribune-Herald.

Site of former homeless camp draws just one bid at auction. A lot in downtown Hilo that was the site of a troublesome homeless camp received only one extremely low bid at auction last month, but that sale will likely be blocked, a county official said. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Interview: “We Need a Few Good Weeks to Get Us Back On Track”. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino continued to express frustrations over large gatherings and drum circle activity as the state continues to record new COVID-19 activity.  His comments come on the heels of new rules that went into effect in Maui County on Friday that limit indoor and outdoor social gatherings to no more than 10 people, and prohibit the use of large structures that may attract gatherings, such as tents and pavilions at parks and beaches. Maui Now.

Lanai sees boost in census response. Greater participation is needed in East Maui, on Molokai. Maui News.

Kauai

Sustainability search. The agriculture and tourism industries were two of the hardest hit and are prominent local industries that have a significant economic impact on Kaua‘i’s economy. Garden Island.

Superintendent Paul Zina gets busy with official duties. It’s been a month since Paul Zina started his official duties as the new Kaua‘i Complex Area Superintendent, and he has already given back to the community through various events and faced COVID-19 issues head-on when it came to reopening public schools on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

KHS, COK still negotiating details for FY2021. Kaua‘i Humane Society is currently operating on a short-term contract with the County of Kaua‘i that is extending the Fiscal Year 2020 services through August, and is providing more time for the two entities to negotiate their contract for the FY 2021. Garden Island.

Just 1 new COVID-19 case: Hawaii opens more parks, stores, Senate panel mulls tough new tourist rules, Obama building Oahu home, Zuckerberg donates to Kauai community, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green at May 6, 2020 press conference on Facebook Live

Ige, Green make case for partial opening of economy. With Hawaii on a two-week roll of single digit cases of COVID-19 per day, Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green teamed up Wednesday to explain and defend the first phase of reopening the state’s economy, which starts today. Star-Advertiser.

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State parks reopen on a limited basis. Select Hawaii state parks have been reopened for active hiking and beach exercise during daylight hours, subject to restrictions and continued requirements that visitors respect social distancing, stay in motion and avoid gatherings “of any sort,” the state Division of State Parks announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Opens Select State Parks. The Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks is re-opening select parks and monuments across the state with an emphasis on social distancing and exercise, and continued restrictions on gatherings of any sort. Big Island Video News.

More beach parks, hikes open for exercise; social distancing rules still apply. As more parks and beaches reopen ahead of Mother’s Day weekend, it’s important to remember that rules still apply and will be enforced. KHON2.

On beach closures, the governor and lieutenant governor aren’t on the same page. Despite the growing list of businesses and state parks that are set to reopen, Gov. David Ige says Hawaii’s beaches are still off limits for relaxing and sunbathing. Hawaii News Now.

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Just 1 new coronavirus case in Hawaii, bringing statewide tally to 626. Hawaii’s coronavirus tally has risen by just one case today to a total of 626, the state Department of Health announced. The new case was an adult on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii reports just 1 new COVID-19 case, bringing statewide total to 626. Hawaii is reporting just one new COVID-19 case Wednesday, bringing the statewide total to 626. The new case is on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

DOH Reports 1 New Case of Coronavirus Statewide. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported one new case of coronavirus overnight, bringing the statewide total to 626. Big Island Now.

Just 1 More COVID-19 Case Reported On Oahu. Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that he is lifting some restrictions because Hawaii has gone two weeks with fewer than six new cases confirmed per day. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Green Compares Hawaii COVID-19 Rates To Nation. Hawaiʻi has the lowest mortality rate from COVID-19 infection in the entire United States, says Lieutenant Governor Josh Green, as well as the second lowest case rate in the nation. Big Island Video News.

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Tougher rules ahead for quarantined visitors. New measures are being proposed to make sure travelers are not carrying COVID-19 into the state, some of these include testing before travel as well as tougher rules under quarantine. KHON2.

State Senate panel makes recommendations to beef up quaratine enforcement. A state Senate committee is recommending that hotels not issue room keys to visitors during the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine period, nor should visitors be allowed to rent cars while officially quarantined. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers make series of suggestions to crack down on visitors who violate quarantine. A legislative committee charged with helping to steer the state’s response to COVID-19 is making a series of suggestions aimed at better enforcing a mandatory quarantine for visitors. Hawaii News Now.

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Businesses seek clear path and protocols for reopening, as clock ticks on companies’ survival. Business owners and workers are happy to see some sectors start to get the green light to re-open, but the approval process has some baffled. KHON2.

Gov. and mayors clear the air on when businesses can open. Oahu retailers will open next week Friday. Other counties such as Kauai and the Big Island can open Thursday. Maui will open on Monday. KHON2.

Ige Says Child Care Centers Can Reopen. But Are They Ready? At least 100 private, licensed facilities have never closed since the pandemic, limiting care to children of essential workers. Civil Beat.

State Lacks Child Care Plan As Parents Return To Work. Gov. David Ige’s newest emergency proclamation allows more businesses to reopen their doors as early as tomorrow. Hawaii Public Radio.

To ease burden on system, state asks laid off workers to file certifications only on certain days. Thousands of laid off workers frustrated with trying to file weekly certifications for their unemployment claims are being encouraged to instead file on designated days. Hawaii News Now.

Ige halts suspension of open government laws. The latest emergency proclamation by Gov. David Ige steps back from blanket suspensions of the state open meetings and open records laws that he had issued in mid-March in an effort to lessen the spread of the coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Low Risk Safety Checks Can Resume May 15. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation is coordinating the reopening of stations for Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspections (PMVI or Safety Checks) starting Friday, May 15. Maui Now.

Safety checks to resume starting May 15. Safety check certificates and stickers expiring on or before May 31, 2020, will remain valid until August 31, 2020. All other safety checks that expire in 2020 will be valid for an additional three months after the 2020 expiration date. KHON2.

Home sales in Hawaii take hit amid pandemic. Hawaii’s real estate market is now getting pounded from complications of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu faces nine-figure budget shortfall, City Councilmember suggests bonds. The City and County of Honolulu announced Wednesday that it is expecting a budget shortfall of $130 million in 2021. KHON2.

Oahu property tax payers can pay in installments. All property tax payers on Oahu will have more time to pay the major portion of their August tax bills under a plan unveiled by Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu To Allow Delayed Property Tax Payments. Property tax payments can be delayed to help during the pandemic but won’t be forgiven. Civil Beat.

City gives relief to property owners in regards to their next tax bill. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is giving some relief to property owners when it comes to paying their next property tax bill. KITV4.

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Oahu retailers left puzzled over ‘lack of collaboration’ in reopening announcement. After the governor’s announcement Tuesday about reopening a large portion of Hawaii’s economy, Oahu retailers started scrambling to figure out how they’d reopen in two days. Then came a sudden change: The Governor’s Office said the reopening date for Oahu was actually May 15. Hawaii News Now.

Confusion over order hits O'ahu retailers. Store owners say they know things will be different but they also say staying closed too long isn't an option. KITV4.

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4,000 line up again for free food. For the second time in a week, thousands of cars lined up for more than a mile and waited for hours to pick up 50 pounds of free food. Star-Advertiser.

Many heartbroken to see long lines again at food assistance site. Hundreds of vehicles once again lined the street for Oahu’s second food distribution event at Aloha Stadium. KHON2.

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UH Is Making Students Vacate Campus Housing Next Week. About 750 students still live on campus at the University of Hawaii Manoa. But most are being told to move out by May 16 even as the stay-at-home order makes it hard to find housing. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Moving To Expand Crackdown On Homeless. The city’s sit-lie ban could soon include streets around the Institute for Human Services, but shelters don’t have enough room for those living in encampments. Civil Beat.

Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Kealohas Stuck In Limbo. Gerard Puana’s attorney wants a federal judge to lift a temporary hold on the case so that a resolution can be found. Civil Beat.

On property under construction, Waimanalo looks forward to a very presidential neighbor. The Waimanalo beachfront property made famous by the hit 1980s television series “Magnum PI” has been mostly leveled and new structural elements are being constructed. State records indicate the property with multiple homes and a guard shack could be slated for the former President Barack Obama and his family. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor sets reopening requirements for some businesses and parks. A gradual reopening of Hawaii County businesses, parks and community facilities moved another step forward Wednesday, with Mayor Harry Kim announcing his latest set of rules. West Hawaii Today.

More Businesses, Parks to Reopen in Hawai‘i County. Hawai‘i County is moving forward with plans to reopen additional businesses and parks as COVID-19 case numbers continue to dwindle. Big Island Now.

Big Island retail businesses allowed to reopen on Thursday. On the Big Island Mayor Harry Kim issued COVID-19 Emergency Rule 4 on Wednesday expanding on the Governor's newest proclamation. KITV4.

FULL TEXT: Mayor Kim’s COVID-19 Emergency Rule Number 4. The day after Governor David Ige replaced his "stay-at-home" order with a “safer-at-home” order, Hawaiʻi County Mayor signed his own set of new emergency rules. Big Island Video News.

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Some parks reopen as restrictions ease. Several state and county parks around the island have reopened as restrictions on outdoor activities are gradually relaxed. Tribune-Herald.

Spring delivery: Monk seal born on West Hawaii beach. For a third straight year, a Hawaiian monk seal has been pupped on West Hawaii’s shores, officials confirmed Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui retail stores to reopen Monday, Mayor Michael Victorino announces. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino has announced that retail stores — including those in malls — in the county will be allowed to reopen Monday as long as they follow social distancing guidelines. Star-Advertiser.

Retail at Shopping Malls on Maui to Open on Monday, May 11. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino provides his daily update on COVID-19 response in Maui County and offers some clarification on the Governor’s latest “Safer-at-Home” order for phased reopening of businesses in Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.

Retail store given green light to open on May 11 in Maui County. Mayor Michael Victorino announced that retail stores and retail stores in shopping malls will be allowed to reopen as long as they follow physical distancing requirements, starting Monday, May 11, in Maui County. KHON2.

Victorino mulling whether to follow Ige’s lead on malls. 6-foot distancing, masks for staff, customers among rules considered. Maui News.

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Part of Mākena State Park and Polipoli Springs Open for Hiking and Exercise, But Not Gatherings. The DLNR Division of State Parks is re-opening select parks and monuments across the state with an emphasis on social distancing and exercise, and continued restrictions on gatherings of any sort. Maui Now.

Joint effort on Maui produces 40 ventilators for COVID-19 response. A joint effort involving Maui County and tech companies has led to the production of 40 bridge ventilators to help aid health care providers in their COVID-19 response. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency Ventilators Produced on Maui for COVID-19 Response Unveiled. Newly manufactured emergency ventilators produced on Maui by HNu Photonics to help increase Maui County’s emergency healthcare capacity amid the COVID-19 pandemic, were unveiled today by Maui Mayor Michael Victorino. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua'i County mayor announces retail stores set to reopen Thursday. Kaua'i County Mayor Derek Kawakami laid out the type of services allowed to reopen. KITV4.

Some state parks were reopened Wednesday for day beach use or hiking, with restrictions on “gatherings of any sort” according to a news release from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. On Kauai, the state parks that remain closed are Polihale State Park, which is closed for road repairs, Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapiai Valley and the Wailua River State Park – though the river access for paddling is allowed at the Kaumuali‘i section of the river. Garden Island.

Some local businesses open up. Many businesses are opening their doors today, thanks to Governor David Ige’s seventh proclamation relating to COVID-19.  Garden Island.

Dr. Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg’s Chan Zuckerberg Kaua‘i Community Fund of Hawai‘i Community Foundation has provided a second grant to help Kaua‘i residents suffering financially from the COVID-19 situation. Garden Island.

State park fees going up, Native Hawaiian skulls returned from England, Caldwell seeks 5.1% budget increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Snow atop Mauna Kea March 2, 2020. ©2020 All Hawaii News

Shower activity to slowly decrease as an upper level low moves north of the islands. KHON2.

BLNR approves parks fee increase proposal. Land Board members on Friday approved unanimously a State Parks proposal to increase an array of parks-related fees in an effort to increase revenue. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Lawmakers Hamstrung By Their Own Law On Special Funds. The auditor determined that none of the 63 special funds that legislators wanted to create this session met the high legal bar they set for themselves in 2013. Civil Beat.

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20 Native Hawaiian skulls are returned from England. Human remains taken from Hawaii in the name of science have been returned to the islands after more than a century in a museum in England. Star-Advertiser.

OHA, Hui Secure Return of 20 Iwi Kupuna. After a decade-long struggle, ancient Native Hawaiian remains housed in a foreign land have returned to Hawai‘i. Big Island Now.

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How Prepared Are Hawaii Hospitals For Coronavirus? Past training for outbreaks such as Ebola have hospitals equipped to deal with infectious diseases like the new coronavirus. Civil Beat.

Leahi Hospital being considered for quarantines. State officials are considering using Leahi Hospital in Kaimuki to quarantine any people in Hawaii who contract the deadly new coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Additional hospitals adding virus screening. Local hospitals are ramping up their screening for anyone who walks in the door to make sure they don’t spread any viruses. KHON2.

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Weather dampens statewide efforts to count whales. Hundreds of volunteers counted 191 humpback whales on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island over the weekend, but heavy rain and wind resulted in challenging sighting conditions. Star-Advertiser.

More whales than most. Despite the blustery weather, Kaua‘i island with just 11 sites operating, posted the most average number of whales viewed per 15-minute count period at 2.4 whales “counted”, Saturday during the Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count for February. Garden Island.

Pacific Media Group is moving into television. PMG has acquired the Paradise Television Network in a transaction that took effect on March 1, 2020, the company announced Monday. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell’s $2.8B budget calls for 5.1% increase. There is a relatively flat property tax picture on Oahu and a need to find $71 million to pay for the first half-year of rail operations as well as other increasing expenses. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Ethics Commission Scrubs Financial Disclosures From Website. The records are now only available for inspection at Honolulu Hale and officials are charging for copies — even if that’s just taking photos with your phone. Civil Beat.

City Seeks Comments On Proposed $3 Fare, Free Transfers Between Bus and Rail. The Honolulu transit fare review body wants to raise the price of a bus ride by 25 cents to $3, but provide free transfers between the rail and bus. Hawaii Public Radio.

Glider Tours Get Federal Scrutiny After Dillingham Airfield Crash. Officials are looking more closely at the use of towplanes to get gliders aloft. Civil Beat.

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COVID-19 keeps L.A. Clippers from returning to Hawaii and postpones FESTPAC. The Los Angeles Clippers, who played in Hawaii the last three years, won’t return to the islands this year due to uncertainty over the spreading coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

FESTPAC international festival has been postponed due to coronavirus concerns. The 13th Festival of the Pacific Arts and Culture — or FESTPAC — has been postponed due to concerns of the coronavirus. KHON2.

Pacific Arts Festival Postponed Over Coronavirus Concerns. Festival of the Pacific Arts & Culture was planned for June but event organizers are putting it off as concern about COVID-19 grows. Civil Beat.

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Tents in Old Stadium Park offer temporary stay to the homeless. Honolulu officials said tents could be part of the solution in tackling homelessness on Oahu, the Old Stadium Park is the new location for the Homeless Outreach and Navigation for Unsheltered Persons or HONU that hopes to take hundreds off the street. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Council reacts to mayor’s proposed budget. Nonprofit organizations are set to get a $1 million raise in Mayor Harry Kim’s proposed budget, but County Council members will see their individual contingency accounts shrink from $100,000 to $20,000 each. West Hawaii Today.

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TMT opponents ask Japan to end involvement with project. Protesters in opposition to the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Maunakea presented a letter to the Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu urging the Japanese government to cease its involvement in the project. Tribune-Herald.

TMT opponents seek Japanese support as hiatus for telescope continues. As a pause in the Thirty Meter Telescope project at the summit of Mauna Kea continued, telescope opponents calling themselves kiai, or protectors of the mountain held sacred by many Native Hawaiians, took a break from their Big Island vigil to travel to Oahu on an outreach mission. Star-Advertiser.

TMT Opponents Visit Japan Consul, Refute Governor’s Claims. TMT opponents say there is no hoʻoponopono process taking place with Maunakea kiaʻi, and requested that Japan withdraw support for the planned observatory. Big Island Video News.

TMT opponents voice opposition outside of Japanese Consulate-General. Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope took their message to the Japanese Consulate-General in Nuuanu Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Mauna Kea protectors ask Japanese government to stop supporting the Thirty Meter Telescope. Protectors of Mauna Kea -- or kia'i -- took their fight against the Thirty Meter Telescope to the Japanese government. KITV4.

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Five Big Island residents self-monitoring for COVID-19. The Big Islanders are among 91 across the state — including 83 on Oahu, two on Kauai and one Maui — keeping tabs for symptoms of the coronavirus that’s sickened more than 88,000 worldwide and killed more than 3,000, the vast majority in mainland China. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Iron Works Rezoning Requested. The property owners want to rezone the current Open zoning designation to an Industrial-Commercial Mixed Use, in order to maintain the existing uses and structures at the site. Big Island Video News.

Maui

As Maui Weighs Countywide Vacation Rental Ban, Molokaʻi Is Divided On Impacts. Molokaʻi may become the first island in Hawaiʻi where new short-term vacation rentals are banned and old ones phased out. Hawaii Public Radio.

Haleakala summit dusted with snow. Winter weather brings cold rain, winds to isle. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Residents Surprised, Disappointed After Councilman Brun's Arrest. The arrest on Thursday of Kauaʻi Council Member Arthur Brun has surprised and disappointed residents across the small island, while charges that he led a major drug ring selling methamphetamine has shaken the image of the tranquil, laid-back community. Hawaii Public Radio.

Organizations monitor COVID-19 spread. Kaua‘i officials said Monday there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Kaua‘i, but some on-island resorts say they’re starting to see cancellations, some people who work with the public are donning masks and there have been reports of busy lines at local stores. Garden Island.