Teachers cleared for free trips, Honolulu Police Commission to discuss police chief's fate today, counties submit legislative priorities, new Maui council leadership, $18M upgrades for Kauai airport, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ocean entry viewing from the Kalapana side. National Park Service Sept. 20, 2016

A new viewing area for the Kamokuna lava ocean entry opened Tuesday after two days of closure because of a New Year’s Eve lava delta collapse. Tribune-Herald.

Public school teachers may resume traveling free as chaperones on educational field trips without violating ethics laws, under an agreement between the teachers union and the State Ethics Commission announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Under an agreement between the state teachers union and the state Ethics Commission, teachers serving as chaperones on school-related trips can continue to have their travel costs paid for by private tour companies. Civil Beat.

A larger county share of the tax on hotel and vacation rentals, liability protection for lifeguards, ambulances for Hawaii and Kauai counties and a greater say in union negotiations are the top priorities for county governments going into the 2017 session of the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Following a New Year’s fireworks accident that killed a woman in Kapolei, state lawmakers will likely reconsider boosting inspections of the shipping containers that authorities say are used to smuggle in most of Oahu’s illegal pyrotechnics. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents concerned about pesticide use by major agriculture companies on the islands are planning a push to strengthen regulation over chemicals they fear harm their health. Associated Press.

Commentary: Hold onto your wallet, because this coming legislative session looks like it may be a rough ride! Civil Beat.

A robust Hawaii economy pushed down statewide bankruptcy filings in 2016 for the sixth straight year with few signs that the trend is going to reverse anytime soon. Star-Advertiser.

A possible contender for president in 2020 is helping U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono bring in campaign funds. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Both Mayor Kirk Caldwell and newly installed City Council Chairman Ron Menor called finding the funding to complete the city’s 20-mile rail line their top priority over the next few years. Star-Advertiser.

Although they spoke two hours apart and in separate locations, the mayor of Honolulu and the new chairman of the City Council seemed at times to be reading from similar scripts. Civil Beat.

Kirk Caldwell will serve another 4 years as mayor of Honolulu after being sworn in today at Ala Moana Beach Park. KITV.

The Honolulu Police Commission will meet Wednesday to discuss the future of Police Chief Louis Kealoha, who has been on paid leave since receiving a "target letter" from the FBI last month. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Commission’s plan to discuss the fate of Police Chief Louis Kealoha in a closed-door session is being questioned by attorneys who often represent the media and the public interest. Civil Beat.

In June 2013, two homicide detectives from the Honolulu Police Department were assigned to investigate a busted taillight at the Kahala home of their boss. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro announced this week that Katherine Kealoha, who is the subject of an ongoing public corruption investigation, will be part of a new initiative that aims to crack down on criminals who target tourists. Civil Beat.

The city might need to spend millions to replace two force main lines in Ko Olina after one broke this week near the site of a break in late November, spilling tens if not hundreds of thousands of gallons of raw sewage, city Environmental Services Director Lori Kahikina said Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Gene Ward insists there is nothing unconstitutional about a map he published identifying locations of suspected homeless people in his East Honolulu district, but Ward nevertheless has asked the state attorney general for a legal opinion. Star-Advertiser.

Marine Corps Base Hawaii cancels 2017 air show featuring Blue Angels. KHON2.

Honolulu ranked No. 48 among cities with the most bed bugs in 2016, according to pest control company Orkin. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Thirty Meter Telescope project manager answers questions from opponents; Gary Sanders will continue his testimony today during ongoing contested case hearing. Tribune-Herald.

A long-awaited traffic project in Puna began construction Tuesday. The Hawaii Department of Transportation State Highways Division will be installing a traffic signal at the intersection of Shower Drive, Pohaku Drive and Highway 130. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii's Kona International Airport is now officially named the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, in honor of the Challenger astronaut who grew up nearby on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

When the bailiff declares Division 2 of the 3rd Circuit Court in session Tuesday, for the first time in 12 1/2 years — with the exception of vacations — the presiding judge will not be Glenn S. Hara. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Monday morning’s inauguration of the new Maui County Council was “the easy part,” but now it’s time to get down to business, council members said following the celebration. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member Mike White regained his position as chairman Monday late evening during a contentious first council meeting that included 75 testifiers and five failed nominations for other chairpersons. Maui News.

Kauai

About $18 million worth of improvements and upgrades to Lihue Airport is slated to be completed by the end of 2019, according to the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Garden Island.

An organization on Kauai is keeping a critically endangered plant from going extinct. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tulsi meeting Trump for job consideration, Speaker-emeritus Say residency cleared, friends remember former Kauai councilman Byum, new rules could hamper homeless efforts, unexploded ordnance found on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard © 2016 All Hawaii News

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, will be meeting with President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team Monday for a possible top job in the new administration, according to a report. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is meeting with President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team Monday for a possible top job in the new administration, a source said. CNN.

Commentary: Hawaii’s congressional delegation: 4 ambitious politicians jockeying for advantage. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Calvin Say’s legal battles over his residency appear to have been settled. The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously ruled in Hussey v. Say that the state House of Representatives “is the only body” that can decide whether the speaker emeritus satisfies the constitutional residency requirements of a sitting member. Civil Beat.

Members of Hawaii’s Board of Education say they’re frustrated with the state’s perennial teacher shortage, which has again resulted in hundreds of public school classrooms being staffed this school year with emergency hires and substitutes lacking proper teaching credentials. Star-Advertiser.

The CEO of Hawaiian Electric Co. says the utility remains committed to 100 percent renewable-energy dependence despite having a climate change denier as the nation's incoming president. Associated Press.

Eight Hawaii homeless shelters estimate they would be forced to collectively eliminate 662 beds under changes proposed by the state Department of Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Other States Are Shrinking Prison Populations — Why Not Hawaii? The Justice Reinvestment Initiative approved in 2012 was supposed to be a game-changer in the islands. It hasn’t been. Civil Beat.

Hawaii could improve on its laws to combat drunken driving by imposing tougher penalties for people who drive drunk with a child in the car, according to a new report by Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Accounting and General Services Director Douglas Murdock, who serves as the state comptroller, is stepping down today, the governor’s office announced. Gov. David Ige has appointed Roderick Becker, the state deputy budget director since December 2014, to replace Murdock. Civil Beat.

In a ghost town of dead coral off a remote Pacific island, scientists have found a bit more life. Associated Press.


Oahu

While some Honolulu rail leaders are encouraged by President-elect Donald Trump’s pro-infrastructure rhetoric, others are wary of how the new administration might react to a transit project that’s over budget, behind schedule and technically in breach of its federal funding deal. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate continues to drop, according to new numbers released in November, but this poses a challenge for new businesses popping up on Oahu. KHON2.

Jesse Souki, who held executive positions at several state agencies, could become the next head of the Hawaii Community Development Authority, the state agency regulating development in the Honolulu neighborhood of Kakaako, the HCDA said this week. Pacific Business News.

City Emergency Services and Fire Department officials have agreed to compile a report looking into the feasibility of consolidating ocean safety services. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: It’s Time To Get Real About The Honolulu Zoo. The fifth director in six years has resigned, days after voters agreed to steer property taxes to a fund to help the zoo. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The Honaunau Rodeo Arena improvement project is finished, and on Saturday South Kona celebrated. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Billy Kenoi and Councilwoman Maile Medeiros David joined the South Kona rodeo community Saturday to celebrate the new and improved Honaunau Rodeo Arena. West Hawaii Today.

State and federal researchers confirmed that a giant ohia tree near Laupahoehoe was killed by rapid ohia death, marking the first known case of the plant disease in Hamakua. Tribune-Herald.

Widening of Highway 19, Queen Kaahumanu Highway, is likely to take a year longer than initially expected. West Hawaii Today.

Construction for a portion of a frontage road that will run along Queen Kaahumanu Highway is expected to begin today. West Hawaii Today.

A Public Meeting on a Draft Environmental Assessment for new roads in and around Fern Acres was held last week at the Mountain View Elementary School cafeteria. Big Island Video News.

Cooperative exercise center offers classes, studies, support. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Another workforce housing project has had prospective affordable homebuyers pre-qualify for home loans through a developer-approved lender — despite the Maui County Code calling for such vetting to be done by the applicant’s choice of lender. Maui News.

The state Department of Health will be holding a public information meeting Tuesday on its proposal to update rules regulating businesses that generate or handle hazardous wastes and used oil in Hawaii. Maui News.

The Kīhei Maui Self Storage facility is closed due to the discovery on Thursday afternoon, of a piece of unexploded ordnance in a storage unit. Maui Now.

University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers discovered “unparalleled” nitrate levels in Kuau Bay linked to adjacent sugar cane fields, the lead author of a recent study said Thursday. Maui News.

Improving wastewater treatment systems, reducing nitrogen and phosphorous within injection wells and changing the public’s perception of recycled water are key areas the county should consider, according to a former county wastewater operations superintendent. Maui News.

A team of University of Hawaii scientists has completed an intensive study of nearshore ecosystems around Maui that paints a clear picture of the impact of discharged treated wastewater. Star-Advertiser

The crop that once defined Hawai‘i is facing its final harvest. Next month, Hawai‘i Commercial & Sugar Company will close its operations. For many, the industry was more than just a place to work—it represented an entire way of life. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Those who knew Tim Bynum say he was a gentle giant who genuinely cared about the island. Bynum, who served on the Kauai County Council for four terms, from 2006 to 2014, died Friday at the age of 62. Garden Island.

Gary Hooser may no longer have a seat on the Kauai County Council, but he’ll continue trying to make a difference in the lives of island residents. Garden Island.

The access road leading to Mahaulepu Beach should be open again in early December, according to the state Department of Health. Garden Island.

Hawaii short 625 teachers, Honolulu to pay kissing lesbian couple $80k in lawsuit, homeless dollars go to people in houses, challenger says Tulsi's out of touch, serious charges dropped against Maui telescope protesters, EPA pushes for dirty water warning signs on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Back to school shoe shopping © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hundreds of teaching positions across Hawaii’s public schools remain unfilled as the new school year gets underway today for more than 180,000 students. The Department of Education says 100 teacher vacancies were filled over the summer, leaving 625 positions as of last week that need to be filled for the 2016-17 academic year.  Star-Advertiser.

Air conditioning is delayed for some hot schools while education officials push for lower prices. Associated Press.

How The Quest For Clean Energy Sunk HECO’s Biggest Deal Ever. Hawaii political leaders and regulators didn’t think selling Hawaiian Electric to a mainland company would help get the utility off oil. Civil Beat.

The lion’s share of state dollars earmarked since April to provide direct, immediate aid in tackling Hawaii’s homeless crisis has gone to keeping struggling families in their homes versus getting homeless people off the street. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii knows its technology infrastructure is behind the times. Now government officials are reaching out to the tech community for help. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is broadening its annual Hawaii Tourism Conference into a weeklong international gathering that draws visitor industry attendees from across the globe. Star-Advertiser.

Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson has qualified to be on the Hawaii ballot in November. Johnson, a former Republican governor of New Mexico, is running with vice presidential partner Bill Weld, a former Republican governor of Massachusetts. Civil Beat.

A Maui mom thinks U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has lost touch with her district, and she’s challenging her in the Aug. 13 Democratic primary. West Hawaii Today.

An environmental group has filed a complaint with federal officials over Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council Executive Director Kitty Simonds’ role in orchestrating opposition to the proposed expansion of the marine monument around the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council is on track to approve an $80,000 settlement for a lesbian couple who sued the city contending a Honolulu police officer harassed and arrested them after he saw them kissing in a North Shore grocery store. Civil Beat.

Land development-related growing pains in the quickly changing West Oahu region are a key issue in the Honolulu City Council District I race, where the incumbent faces challenges from three contenders. Star-Advertiser.

On the 173rd anniversary of Sovereignty Restoration Day (La Hoihoi Ea), supporters of two different paths toward self governance for kanaka maoli gathered Saturday to kukakuka (have a discussion) at Thomas Square in Honolulu. Civil Beat.

It’s been a while since Hawaii residents have seen gas selling for under $2 per gallon. But that will change this weekend as Par Hawaii, which is unveiling its new Hele brand, drops its price for regular unleaded gasoline to $1.99 at the first station to undergo the change as part of a grand opening event. Pacific Business News.

It's the second largest solar farm planned on Oahu and a major contributor to the state's clean energy goals. But neighbors say the Waianae Solar photovoltaic facility is one of the dirtiest they've seen. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Prosecutor’s race heats up: Roth, Kagami emphasize markedly different approaches. Tribune-Herald.

State Sen. Russell Ruderman and challenger Hawaii County Councilman Greggor Ilagan were running about neck and neck in spending as they neared the home stretch of their campaigns. Tribune-Herald.

Napoopoo Road intersection work causing backups, lost business, owners say. West Hawaii Today.

More than five years after a tsunami tore into Anaehoomalu Bay, breaching Kuualii pond, crews are expected to begin this month replacing the wall at the fishpond as well as removing sand from the pond to build up the beach. West Hawaii Today.

There’s a dustup in the local Democratic Party over an official’s endorsement of a candidate in a nonpartisan County Council race. West Hawaii Today.

The vitriol surrounding accusations that the Hawaii Island Humane Society planned and engaged in a smear campaign against Big Island Dog Rescue seeped into Third Circuit Court Friday, where Judge Ronald Ibarra rejected an attempt to have the case dismissed. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ing’s account, police report at odds. A citation for not having vehicle insurance that was issued to state Rep. Kaniela Ing shows he was driving his car when he was stopped for having an expired safety sticker and delinquent vehicle tax, according to a source who has knowledge of the traffic crime citation. Maui News.

The most serious charge lodged against six of the eight protesters arrested nearly a year ago in Kula during the transportation of construction materials for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope were dismissed Friday in 2nd Circuit Court. Maui News.

Four candidates vie for Gladys Baisa’s vacant Upcountry council seat. Maui News.

The high cost of construction bids has pushed back the installation of air conditioning in at least four Maui County schools, which means some students heading back to class Monday will have to bear the heat a bit longer. Maui News.

Kauai

Federal environmental officials are strong-arming the state into posting warning signs advising poor water quality at Mahaulepu and Gillin’s Beaches. Garden Island.

Federal environmental officials are requiring the state of Hawaii to post warning signs about poor water quality at two Kauai beaches. KITV.

Plea bargains, said Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar, are a balancing act. Garden Island.

James “Jimmy” Tokioka (D-15) is seeking his sixth, two-year term as a state House representative for Kauai. Garden Island.

Raised in Palolo, Oahu, Thomas Oi hopes his 26 years as a land surveyor will land him a seat at the state House. Garden Island.

Hawaii economy pumping, Board of Education no longer links teacher pay to test scores, Honolulu ride-sharing rules advance, Hawaii Council approves mayor's $462.9M budget, Kauai kills general excise tax hike, Ala Moana hotel sold, new stamp for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo zoo volunteer feeds bananas to rescued feral donkeys © 2016 All Hawaii News

The days of the Waikoloa nightingales are almost over, as the last 50 of the feral donkeys left in the area are prepared for adoption. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s economy was pumping in the first quarter, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s economy experienced an excellent first quarter, according to a new report by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News.

The state Board of Education on Tuesday unanimously approved revising its teacher evaluation policy to remove student test scores as a required measure of student learning and growth. Star-Advertiser.

Student test scores may no longer be linked to a teacher’s job performance. The Hawaii State Board of Education unanimously approved recommendations that would get rid of standardized testing from the evaluation process. That’s a big deal for educators, who say the evaluations are unfairly tied to teacher pay and impact retention. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii State Board of Education unanimously approved recommendations Tuesday effectively removing standardized test scores as a requirement in the measurement of teacher performance, according to a press release from the Hawaii Department of Education. West Hawaii Today.

Did Hawaii Lawmakers Do Enough To Protect The Elderly? The state Health Department got only a fraction of what it sought, and now the online posting of care home inspection reports may stop. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric officials announced Wednesday that they’ve negotiated a huge deal to import liquefied natural gas from Canada that could mean slightly lower utility bills for customers on Oahu, Maui and Big Island. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Attorney General’s office has begun an inquiry into the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1260 after the parent union started its own investigation into the local organization’s finances. Star-Advertiser.

Slom Sorry For Campaign Error. The Republican state senator said he did not intend to announce his re-election using state resources. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii researchers say there's a 9 percent chance that an earthquake measuring magnitude 9 or greater will strike Alaska's Aleutian Islands within the next 50 years and send large tsunami waves to Hawaii. Associated Press.

Oahu
A City Council bill requiring drivers of both taxis and ride-hailing companies to obtain “private transportation services” certificates appears to be gathering support. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell still wants the rail project to go all the way to Ala Moana Center. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Commission Chairman Ron Taketa said Wednesday that the commission can suspend Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha if he is indicted after a federal grand jury investigation into alleged corruption. Star-Advertiser.

Totto Tells Ethics Commission To Scrap ‘Silly’ Time Sheet Rules. The Honolulu Ethics Commission forced its executive director and staff to start filling out time sheets to show what they do every six minutes. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii beachfront estate that’s located near President Barack Obama’s winter vacation rental home has been sold for $17.4 million, one of the highest-priced sales of an Oahu home in recent years. Pacific Business News.

Mantra Group Ltd., the largest hotel and resort operator in Australia, is buying Outrigger Enterprises Group’s interest in the Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu for $52.5 million. Pacific Business News.

An alleged Honolulu brothel owner tried to bribe federal agents in exchange for protection from raids, help with the U.S. citizenship test and recruitment of prostitutes, Homeland Security investigators said. Associated Press.

A woman awaiting trial in state court for allegedly operating a prostitution business is now also accused of bribing a federal agent. Star-Advertiser.

They’re a key component in saving lives, but we’ve learned the city’s ambulance fleet is now stretched thin. KHON2.

Hawaii

The topic of the day Wednesday was Hawaii County’s nearly half a billion dollar annual budget. But the issue most on the mind of testifiers was the removal of a dozen trees from Kamehameha Park in North Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council got an earful from residents of North Kohala who are upset about the work done at Kamehameha Park in Kapa'au. Big Island Video News.

Regulars at the Hilo Municipal Golf Course once again can play a full 18-hole round. Play at the course, which has been undergoing renovations since last summer, was restricted to the front nine holes and a temporary green since February. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Organizers of the Maui Community Organic Farmland Initiative are laying out their vision for Maui's post-sugarcane future, one in which a network of farmers turns Central Maui into a self-sustaining organic farming operation. Maui News.

The very first US Postal Service stamp to ever depict a Maui locale, will be unveiled at a special event on June 2, 2016. The Forever Stamp will depict Maui’s famed Haleakalā National Park, featuring an image of a rainbow within the crater. Maui Now.

The Stop Cane Burning group announced Tuesday that it has settled its lawsuit against the state Department of Health and Alexander & Baldwin. Maui News.

A 9th Circuit Court of Appeals order put the brakes Tuesday on the transition of three Maui County public hospitals to Maui Health System, a subsidiary of Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. Maui News.

Kauai

An increase of the General Excise Tax will not be imposed on Kauai residents. In a 4-3 vote Wednesday, the Kauai County Council voted against a bill that would have increased the 4 percent GET by a quarter of a percent. Garden Island.

The federal government is taking a look at how the island’s population of ‘a‘o (Newell’s shearwater), an endangered seabird found only in Hawaii, is being managed. Garden Island.

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency successfully tested the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System’s tracking capabilities Tuesday night on Kauai in an exercise that MDA representatives said went “very well.” Garden Island.

Inmates to be released early from overcrowded Hawaii jails, pregnant endangered Kauai monk seal attacked on video, dengue fever ebbs, hotel tax unchanged, Honolulu councilmen scrap church funding plan, 1.2M visitors to Maui's Haleakalā National Park last year, council airs rail audit battle, Department of Education drowning in teacher applications, igloos for homeless, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii jail exterior © 2016 All Hawaii News

The state correctional system will likely be able to begin releasing misdemeanor criminal offenders in the coming months as a way to ease severe overcrowding in Hawaii jails. House Bill 2391, part of Gov. David Ige’s legislative package, unanimously passed conference committee on Wednesday, a crucial hurdle in the final days of this legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

Loyalists, Dissidents, the Fab Four and the Three Amigos. These four factions, and others within the 51-member Hawaii House of Representatives, form alliances that determine leadership structures, influence what bills become law and affect who wins elections. Civil Beat.

The state Department of Education has been inundated with thousands of applications from people all over the world after bringing attention to Hawaii’s teacher shortage, but officials say it has been frustrating to find that many applicants have little or no teaching experience. Associated Press.

House and Senate lawmakers agreed Wednesday to give the counties $103 million of state hotel tax money for fiscal 2017, which starts July 1. They left the percent each county receives unchanged. Civil Beat.

House and Senate negotiators have agreed to provide the four counties with the same amounts of money in hotel tax revenues as they are receiving this year. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers rejected a bill Tuesday that would have allowed the University of Hawaii system to hire members of the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

A bill garnering support from advocates of both business interests and social services sets a state goal of developing at least 22,500 affordable rental housing units over the next decade. Civil Beat.

Unless state lawmakers change course in the coming days, Hawaii will continue to lag behind the rest of the country when it comes to certain policies and resources provided to ensure the health and safety of residents living in long-term care facilities. Civil Beat.

House and Senate lawmakers agreed Tuesday to sign off on the payment of nearly $11 million to resolve claims against the state. In all, House Bill 2279 appropriates the funds for 23 settlements or judicial orders involving seven departments. Civil Beat.

Let Hawaii Happen, the Hawaii Visitor Convention Bureau’s marketing campaign, has reached 54 percent of frequent U.S. travelers, via paid advertising, website, social media, or direct public relations. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii will recover more than $400,000 from a pharmaceutical products distributor that underpaid Medicaid drug rebates, state Attorney General Doug Chin announced today in a news release. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin has deleted his budget request for $250,000 to fund the expansion of an evangelical Christian megachurch in Sand Island on Oahu’s south shore. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin and Councilman Joey Manahan are backing away from New Hope Church Oahu’s request to have the city provide $250,000 in grants- in-aid for its expansion plans at Sand Island. Star-Advertiser.

Despite the political rhetoric surrounding Honolulu’s rail project, all that is certain when it comes to the final price tag: Nobody will know the ultimate cost until at least next January and it could exceed the current $6.6 billion estimate. Civil Beat.

City Auditor Edwin Young has claimed that rail officials tried to intimidate his audit team when they reviewed the rail authority's finances. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council’s Budget Committee focused on the Audit of Honolulu’s Rail Transit Project today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Cooler heads prevailed at a council budget meeting. The tone appeared to be more about clearing the air, than being confrontational. KITV4.

A church in Hawaii looking to address the state's ongoing homelessness crisis has settled on a solution that on first look appears better suited for the frigid winters of Alaska than the islands' tropical climate: igloos. Associated Press.

A large solar energy farm planned for Central Oahu that was rejected by Hawaii regulators last year has been officially canceled, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Prosecutor Files Complaint Over Police Officer Actions. Honolulu police are investigating whether an officer misrepresented himself in a high-profile manslaughter case to help a local reporter. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii says an independent investigation into what caused a laboratory explosion that seriously injured a visiting researcher has been delayed by several weeks. Associated Press.

Residents and local businesses in the Ko Olina area are being asked to conserve water as the city's Department of Environmental Services responds to a water main break at its West Beach Wastewater Pump Station. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

With more than 30 days past since the last case of dengue fever on the Big Island, state and county officials could have declared “breakbone fever” officially pau. They didn’t. West Hawaii Today.

State officials said that the dengue fever outbreak is not over during a press conference held on Oahu Wednesday, even though the Big Island reached a “significant milestone” with no reports of locally acquired dengue fever in 30 days. Big Island Video News.

With no new cases of dengue fever reported in 30 days, it appears the Hawaii island dengue fever outbreak has come to an end. Star-Advertiser.

State officials celebrated a big milestone on Wednesday in the fight against dengue fever, but said it’s too soon to declare victory in the outbreak — and warned that Hawaii’s real battle may just be beginning. Civil Beat.

The county Department of Environmental Management isn’t exactly flush with cash, thanks to hundreds of people seriously behind on their sewer bills. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A new National Park Service report shows that 1,216,772 visitors to Haleakalā National Park in 2015 spent over $76 million in communities near the park. Maui Now.

Honopou taro farmer Lynn Scott sees more water flowing down East Maui streams since Alexander & Baldwin announced last week that it was "fully and permanently" restoring water to eight East Maui streams. Maui News.

A scheduling conflict between the first Maui County Carnival and the third annual Vietnam veterans' memorial ceremony has been resolved with carnival organizers deciding to observe "quiet time" during the veterans' ceremony in front of the War Memorial Gym on Saturday evening. Maui News.

Kauai

One of Kauai’s most popular Hawaiian monk seals was attacked on Tuesday night at Salt Pond Beach Park, and a video recording of the scuffle is circulating on social media. Garden Island.

A video posted on social media that shows a man repeatedly punching a pregnant Hawaiian monk seal at a Kauai beach has touched off an investigation by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Star-Advertiser.

The video of a pregnant monk seal being attacked on Kauai has left many people outraged including Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho. KHON2.

A documentary that spotlights problems tied to illegal camping on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is slated to air on KFVE to educate the public about the need to protect natural and cultural resources, particularly at Kalalau. Star-Advertiser.

Cyndi Ayonon of the Mayor’s Office coordinated the tallying of contributions from county agencies for transport by the Kauai Independent Food Bank toward its Spring Food and Fund Drive. Garden Island.

Nurses could prescribe medical marijuana, wait list trimmed for medpot cards, teachers on paid leave for sex with students, VA chief resigns, Honolulu pays homeless for lost possessions, unions protest Scott Walker talk, dengue fever canvassing continues, Hawaiian Electric cuts solar and biomass projects, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

marijuana bud

Advanced practice registered nurses, who already prescribe prescription drugs, could start certifying patients for medical marijuana under a bill passed out of committee Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The state Health Department says it has reduced how long it takes to process patients’ applications for medical marijuana from up to eight weeks to no more than five business days. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has less than two months before licenses are supposed to be awarded for medical marijuana dispensaries. But the state still has not chosen a panel to make those decisions. KHON2.

The state House Transportation Committee on Wednesday approved a bill that would allow police to issue tickets to pedestrians for using mobile electronic devices, including cellphones, while crossing a street. Star-Advertiser.

Some state lawmakers want to strengthen the law against “vehicular lollygagging,” a term that describes motorists who drive slowly in the left lane as faster-moving traffic stacks up behind or streams around them on the right. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Education reported four separate cases where two teachers, a counselor and a custodian are each accused of having sexual relations with a student. And in two of those cases, the employees have been on paid leave for more than a year. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is the only Western state without a citizen initiative process, but a few state senators here have begun efforts to change that. Civil Beat.

Wayne Pfeffer, the embattled head of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Pacific Islands Health Care System, has abruptly resigned, effective immediately, and will be returning to the mainland.Star-Advertiser.

The Hawai’i Republican Party hosted its annual Lincoln Dinner Fundraiser last night in Windward O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

The percentage of prison guards across the state who called in sick on Super Bowl Sunday was down from last year, but nearly a third of all guards were still absent from work. Associated Press.

The state has been through “a dramatic change” — Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s words — in ag land use over the last 35 years with the end of the plantation era in both sugar and pineapple production. Civil Beat.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, will hold a series of talk story sessions across the islands about methods to control and eradicate invasive rodents and mongooses to protect the state’s native species. Maui Now.

The State of Hawai‘i has issued a request for proposals to modernize its payroll, time and attendance systems to provide greater functionality and efficiencies in serving more than 75,000 full- and part-time employees statewide. Maui Now.

Commentary: It only took Hawaii officials slightly more than 26 years to follow through on a state Auditor’s recommendation to modernize its payroll system, the Department of Accounting and General Services announced yesterday. MauiTime.

Recent census data that included Pidgin as a language Hawaii residents speak at home has sparked pride. It also got people talking about its use and the stigma that limits its wider acceptance in the state. Associated Press.

Oahu

Embattled Honolulu police Maj. Ryan Borges, a 30-year veteran, has declined a promotion to assistant chief, HPD’s third highest-ranking position, following weeks of controversy because of his history of domestic abuse. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha announced Wednesday that Maj. Ryan Borges will not be promoted to assistant chief. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to pay a total of $48,500 to 21 homeless individuals to settle a lawsuit challenging the way the city applied its sidewalk-clearing laws. Star-Advertiser.

About a decade ago, the University of Hawaii Manoa set an aggressive goal to cut its energy consumption in half by 2015. It failed. Miserably. Civil Beat.

Public Utilities Commission Chair Randy Iwase blasted Hawaiian Electric Co. on Wednesday for terminating a contract for three solar farms on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu rail officials say they expect to know in about a couple of weeks what caused a temporary construction framework to accidentally “separate” from the elevated guideway over the weekend in Pearl City. Star-Advertiser.

It’s official: U.S. Rep. Mark Takai is running for re-election. Civil Beat.

Hawaii mixed-martial arts champion Egan Inoue has opened a cryotherapy treatment center in Moiliili. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaiian Electric Co. plans to terminate its power purchase agreement with Hu Honua Bioenergy on March 1 after the developer of the large Big Island biomass plant missed several deadlines that were part of the contract between the two companies, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

The Big Island’s power utility wants out of its agreement with a troubled bioenergy production facility planned for Pepe’ekeo. Big Island Video News.

More than 30 volunteers, health workers and Civil Defense personnel spent Wednesday morning pounding pavement in Kailua Village, searching for standing water and educating entrepreneurs, residents and visitors on the dengue outbreak. West Hawaii Today.

Efforts to control an invasive insect that has caused significant damage to Hawaii Island’s macadamia crop are moving forward in the state Senate. Tribune-Herald.

A place to wait for the bus, a rock wall sign proclaiming the entrance and picnic tables for community events and socializing will soon be coming to Na Kahua Hale O Ulu Wini, a transitional housing complex in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee gave its blessing Tuesday to the county's proposed $1.2 million purchase of the Waiakoa Gym in Kula. Maui News.

The chairman of the Senate Committee on Water, Land and Agriculture on Wednesday shelved a bill that would allow Alexander & Baldwin to hold on to the rights of millions of gallons of water that it diverts from East Maui streams even as the company plans to close its water-intensive sugar plantation on Maui in the coming months and lay off more than 650 workers. Star-Advertiser.

A Maui police officer was arrested on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016 for violating a warning citation. Carlos, Frate, 31, of Kīhei, was arrested and charged for violating a warning citation, which was issued as a result of an investigation into a case involving alleged abuse of a family or household member, according to department reports. Maui Now.

Kauai

After more than a year of clearing out garbage on a 75-acre piece of undeveloped land, ‘Aina Ho’okupu o Kilauea is making progress in establishing an agricultural park on the site. Garden Island.

The County of Kauai doesn’t collect reimbursements for airlift rescue expenses like those sometimes necessary on the Kalalau Trail, even though there are legal ways to recoup those dollars. Garden Island.

The County of Kauai Planning Department advises the Wailua Houselots community that personnel are walking door-to-door in the neighborhood Wednesday and this evening with a four-question survey. Garden Island.

Waikiki Beach eroding; Sen. Kahele dies; bills would ban gay conversion therapy, criminalize sex with teachers, elect judges and attorney general, regulate vacation rentals, loosen ethics laws; more top government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourists view Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach © 2016 All Hawaii News

A new state report proposes replacing a crumbling 89-year-old wall that juts out into the ocean from Waikiki Beach and has been keeping a prime section of Hawaii’s most visited beach from being swept away. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii state Sen. Gilbert Kahele, recalled as a big-hearted gentleman who cared deeply for his district, has died. Associated Press.

State Sen. Gilbert “Gil” Kahele, a soft-spoken but relentless advocate for Hawaii island and a longtime community organizer who campaigned for a long list of prominent Hawaii Democrats over the years, died Tuesday morning. He was 73. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is mourning the loss of state Sen. Gil Kahele, who died early Tuesday after a series of heart attacks. He was 73. Tribune-Herald.

Kahele

Gil Kahele, a state senator representing Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island, died Tuesday morning at the age of 73. Civil Beat.

Surrounded by his loving family, the Hawaii State Senate reports that Sen. Gil Kahale passed peacefully at 7:55 a.m. today at Queens Medical Center. He was 73 years old. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii state Sen. Gilbert Kahele, who represented parts of the Big Island, has died. He was 73. KITV4.
  
A public memorial will be held this week for Hawaii Island Sen. Gil Kahele. The 73-year-old died Tuesday morning surrounded by family at Queen’s Medical Center after being hospitalized last week for undisclosed medical reasons. KHON2.

The death of state Sen. Gil Kahele on Tuesday could leave Hilo without a Senate representative for several weeks of the legislative session as Democratic Party officials interview applicants for the District 1 seat. Gov. David Ige will be responsible for picking a replacement for Kahele, who came to the Legislature in 2011 as an appointment by then-Gov. Neil Abercrombie, following a nomination process held by county party officials. Tribune-Herald.

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Hawaii lawmakers are considering bills this year that would fundamentally change how district judges, the attorney general and lieutenant governor are chosen. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers have introduced a bill banning a hotly disputed treatment that aims to turn gay teens heterosexual on the basis that being gay is an illness. Associated Press.

Lawmakers are debating a bill that would make it a crime for a teacher to have consensual sexual contact with a 16- or 17-year-old. Hawaii's age of consent is 16, but under House Bill 1044, an adult in a position of power who engages in sexual contact with a 16- or 17-year-old would face fourth-degree sex assault charges. Hawaii News Now.

Reps. Kaniela Ing and Cynthia Thielen are joining forces to introduce a measure that expands industrial hemp research, growth, cultivation and marketing activities in Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.

Today state Representatives Cynthia Thielen, R-Kailua, and Kaniela Ing, D-South Maui, unveiled their big industrial hemp bill. MauiTime.

An East Hawaii lawmaker is proposing a new payroll tax to fund paid sick leave for most employees in the state. The bill, introduced by Rep. Mark Nakashima, would require businesses that employ at least 10 people to provide up to five days of paid leave a year for illnesses. Tribune-Herald.

The Governor covered his major priorities yesterday during his State of the State address to the Legislature.   But the largest departmental budget includes much more than what was revealed. Hawaii Public Radio.

Commentary: Ige’s clumsy delivery belies bold ideas charted in speech. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island legislators want to bolster the state Department of Health Vector Control Branch to better focus on controlling populations of animals and insects that spread disease. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii has a new statewide on-demand television channel called HSPAN that its creators say “will significantly increase” the coverage of state Capitol activities available to the public. Civil Beat.

Who’s Raising Cash During Session? Hawaii state Reps. Evans, Mizuno and Morikawa, that’s who. And it’s not illegal. Civil Beat.

Commentary: A controversial decision last year by the State Ethics Commission restricting educational trips planned, organized, and led by public school teachers has spawned a pair of identical bills that could dangerously weaken the state ethics law. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s medical marijuana industry, which could be valued at $300 million by the end of 2018, will have a major impact on the industrial real estate market in the state, that is already one of the tightest markets for space in the nation, according to an industry expert. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii received a B when Americans for Safe Access released its Medical Marijuana Access in the US: A Patient-Focused Analysis of the Patchwork of State Laws Tuesday. Civil Beat.

The federal Office of National Marine Sanctuaries has withdrawn plans to expand the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary amid resistance from the state, the community and boating and fishing groups. Star-Advertiser.

The federal government announced it dropped a plan to transform the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary from a single species national marine sanctuary. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary isn’t expanding. That’s due to a decision from the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration to not move forward with a proposed expansion to an ecosystem-based sanctuary. Garden Island.

Pacific Water Conference could provide new solutions for septic systems, as regulation offers tax rewards. Pacific Business News.

The Department of Education is working to collect nearly $100,000 it mistakenly paid to more than 200 substitute teachers over a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

Micronesians who were hospitalized in Hawaii were significantly younger than other racial and ethnic groups, a new study has found. The severity of the illnesses also was higher for Micronesians than for whites, Japanese and Hawaiians when it comes to cardiac and infectious disease. Civil Beat.

Citing a need to pay off debt, Hawaiian Airlines officials say a profitable year won’t directly affect ticket prices. Garden Island.

Oahu

Pearl City legislators have introduced House Bill 1840, which calls for a plan to repair the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery on 4th Street off Kamehameha Hwy. Hawaii News Now.

The Waimanalo Market Co-op faces an insecure future. General Manager Leinaala Bright says that while the co-op has state nonprofit status, it does not yet meet federal criteria that would allow it to qualify for a host of grants. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

For years, an unknown — but some say increasing — number of homeowners have quietly rented out their properties to visitors on such online clearing houses as Airbnb and Vacation Rentals By Owner. Kona Sen. Josh Green has introduced a bill that would require all vacation rentals to be licensed annually under the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. West Hawaii Today.

Water bills will trickle down another few cents Monday, as the county Department of Water Supply passes along savings from lower electricity costs. West Hawaii Today.

HPD Keeps Mum About Fired Cop Now Charged With Sex Assault on Hawaii Island. Honolulu police officials refuse to answer questions about Ethan Ferguson, who was hired by a state agency after being discharged by HPD for misconduct. Civil Beat.

Maui

Gov. David Ige called it a "first priority" to keep Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. land in agriculture rather than leave it unproductive or turned into luxury housing when the more than 100-year-old company ceases its sugar operations later this year. Maui News.

Maui County's unemployment rate fell to 3.1 percent in December, down more than half a percentage point from 3.8 percent a year earlier, according to labor statistics released Monday by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai anti-bullying campaign grew Tuesday when public school principals received the Mauka to Makai message banners during the principals’ meeting at the Department of Education administrative offices in Lihue. Garden Island.

Honolulu council balks at $350M rail transit bonds, groups want Hawaiian Electric purchase delayed, wind to power Maui landfill, Kauai mulls clean air bill, state second-worst for taxing the poor, West Coast port problems could hurt Hawaii, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Elevated rail construction, courtesy Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation

Honolulu City Council members continue to harbor strong reservations about a deal that would pave the way for the island's cash-strapped rail transit line to borrow hundreds of millions of dollars in bonds leveraged against the city's general fund. On Wednesday, Council members spent much of a Budget Committee hearing grilling rail officials on the project's new financial challenges — and airing concerns that the Council lacks sufficient oversight over the largest public works project in Hawaii's history. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council's Budget Committee deferred a resolution that would allow the city to issue as much as $350 million in bonds to cover short-term financing for the elevated train. KITV4.

Clean energy advocates, solar trade groups and community organizations are asking Hawaii regulators to hold off on approving NextEra Energy’s acquisition of Hawaiian Electric Industries until there are firm plans in place outlining the state’s energy strategy. About half of the 12 groups go so far as to urge regulators to open up the sale of HEI to other bidders. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is the second-worst state in terms of taxing its lowest-income residents, according to a new study by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy and the Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice. Pacific Business News.

The Joint Legislative Money Committees are continuing to review budget requests from state departments and agencies this week.   Today, lawmakers heard from the corporation responsible for operating neighbor island healthcare facilities. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ongoing contract negotiations with port workers on the West Coast are having an impact here in the islands. The Pacific Maritime Association, which represents shipping companies like Horizon and Matson, says due to the negotiations, longshoremen have begun to stage slowdowns at many ports on the West Coast. It’s been going on since October. KHON2.

Scott Topping has left his position as chief financial officer for Hawaiian Airlines. The state's largest carrier said Wednesday that he has been replaced on an interim basis by Shannon Okinaka, who had served as vice president-controller since 2011. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The union that represents city refuse workers wants to stop Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell from eliminating garbage disposal service for about 181 condominiums, apartments and other multifamily properties and nonprofit organizations, calling the move "an unlawful privatization" of a city service. Star-Advertiser.

The lawyer for the man once accused of stealing Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha's mailbox met Wednesday with the FBI about the police department's handling of the case. Star-Advertiser.

FBI investigators met with a federal public defender Wednesday to discuss the strange case of Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s missing mailbox. But neither attorney Alexander Silvert or an FBI spokesman would say any more about what sort of case might be in the works involving the chief and the Honolulu Police Department. Civil Beat.

A former Honolulu police officer was sentenced Wednesday to nearly three years in prison for trying to extort $15,000 from the owners of a local hostess bar. Associated Press.

Former HPD cop will spend almost 3 years in federal prison for extortion. Hawaii News Now.

Since the U.S. Navy handed Kalaeloa Airport to the state nearly 16 years ago, the state's No. 2 airport has been home to dozens of commuter planes, flight schools and corporate aircraft. But the state is proposing to quadruple rents for many, forcing the departure of several businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki Elementary School teacher Catherine Caine is in the running for the 2015 national teacher of the year award — the first Hawaii finalist in more than a decade. Star-Advertiser.

Condo owners locked in fight with developer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Work at the Hu Honua Bioenergy LLC plant in Pepeekeo has resumed, with the facility set Wednesday to receive deliveries of equipment for installation. Meanwhile, the project was named this month the state’s top “Clean Energy Leader” by the Hawaii State Energy Office. Tribune-Herald.

A brush fire ignited by the June 27 lava flow has been contained after burning about 300 acres, said Darryl Oliveira, Hawaii County Civil Defense administrator. Tribune-Herald.

The hull of the wrecked sailboat Hawaii Aloha has been cut up and removed from the beach in North Kona. Salvage crews finished removing the 78-ton hulk from the shoreline near the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on Sunday, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources confirmed Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Central Maui Landfill Refuse and Recycling Center completed a monthslong project Friday to install three 65-foot wind turbines to generate electricity and thousands of dollars in annual taxpayer savings on power bills. Maui News.

Developers of a 68-unit town house complex in Wailea are finalizing their design plans, though there's no construction timeline yet, the project's planning consultant said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council will have at least another month to iron out the details on a proposed law that would declare air pollution that endangers public health or causes property damage a public nuisance. The seven-member board, by a 5-1 vote, gave their initial OK to the proposal outlined in Bill 2573 on Wednesday. Garden Island.

The Kauai Lagoons project, including the 27-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed Kauai Lagoons Golf Club, has been sold to Honolulu developer Ed Bushor’s Tower Development, Inc. Garden Island.

When the state public charter school commission turned down her request last year to establish a charter school on Kauai, Deena Fontana Moraes was disappointed. But not deterred. Garden Island.

Lanai
The Maui County Council's Planning Committee will begin a review of an update of the Lanai Community Plan this week. Maui News.