LGBTQ+ students added to Hawaii Title IX, high-tech economy boosted by cyber spies, Sensei Farms transforms Lanai agriculture, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gay pride parade in Hawaii ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's new Title IX law includes protection for LGBTQ+ students. Hawaii's new Title IX law is the first in the nation to include protection for LGBTQ+ students. Activists say this addition is a positive step forward in expanding rights in educational programs. KITV.

State senators grill University of Hawaii on salary funding details. University of Hawaii officials Friday were unable to answer pointed questions from state senators about who should pay for what could be more than $14 million worth of “fringe” employee benefits for an estimated 1,076 UH salaried positions paid through tuitions rather than the state’s general fund. Star-Advertiser.

Cyber Spies Are Quietly Boosting Hawaii’s High Tech Economy. Can the state build on a massive base of National Security Agency and other government cyber jobs? Civil Beat.

Hawaii's New Asset Forfeiture Rules Take Effect Jan. 17. New requirements will apply to local enforcement authorities in seizing cars and other property of criminals under long-awaited asset forfeiture rules issued by the Hawaii attorney general on Dec. 31. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii bankruptcies in 2019 hit highest level in 5 years. The U.S. stock market had a record bull run in 2019. But not everyone shared in the wealth. Star-Advertiser.

Pay Hikes for Special Ed, Hawaiian Language, Rural School Teachers Start On Tuesday. Pay increases for public school teachers in hard-to-fill positions, including those for special education, rural areas and Hawaiian language immersion, start on Tuesday. Hawaii Public Radio.

A $75,000 Settlement Is Scaring Hawaii Charter Schools. A recent legislative directive that forces state agencies to cover the costs of legal claims could have a big impact on charter schools. Civil Beat.

New law on reporting inmate deaths exposes alleged prison homicide. A new law that requires prison officials to report to the governor each time an inmate dies in custody has already revealed the case of a prisoner who died on Christmas morning after being assaulted at Oahu Community Correctional Center.  Star-Advertiser.

Maunakea Looms Over American Astronomical Society Meeting. The Thirty Meter Telescope controversy will be a major topic of discussion during the four-day conference being held at the Hawai‘i Convention Center on Oʻahu. Big Island Video News.

TMT supporters rally at Hawai‘i Convention Center. Supporters of the Thirty Meter Telescope waved signs and flags Sunday outside of the Hawai‘i Convention Center while a major astronomy conference was being held inside. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Board Of Water Supply Fined For Stream Pollution. The Board of Water Supply failed to notify state health officials about a sediment discharge for 15 days, according to the state health department. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Board of Water Supply faces $420K penalty for polluting Nuuanu Stream. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply and a trio of contractors face a possible $420,000 fine for polluting the Nuuanu Stream over an 18-day period last year. Star-Advertiser.

Dead Koi fish led to a $420K fine from the Department of Health. The Department of Health announced a notice of violation for the Board of Water Supply and some of its consultants and contractors carrying a $420K fine. KITV.

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Hauula residents want long-term fix for collapsed road. Repair crews began work Sunday morning along a portion of Kamehameha Highway that collapsed into the ocean in Hauula, but some residents questioned why the state allowed the road’s condition to deteriorate to that extent. Star-Advertiser.

Traffic in Hauula still impacted as crews make emergency repairs to crumbling roadway. A lane of Kamehameha Highway in Hauula remains closed Monday morning as crews make emergency shoreline repairs to the crumbling roadway. Hawaii News Now.

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Development firms to build affordable housing through state resolution. A development partnership is positioned to start building a low-income housing tower in Pawaa later this year following a recent tentative endorsement by the state to finance the $89 million project. Star-Advertiser.

New rules for tent installers impact vendors at Aloha Stadium Swap Meet. Vendors of the popular Aloha Stadium Swap Meet say they were caught off guard when trying to set up Saturday, leading to tensions over the market. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Herbicide ban not a sure thing. While the County Council had voted 6-3 to approve Bill 101 — the same number of affirmative votes needed to override Mayor Harry Kim’s veto — there’s no guarantee all six council members who previously voted yes on the bill will also agree to override the veto. West Hawaii Today.

Kim to meet with governor, TMT officials this week. Although the protesters at Maunakea Access Road have physically changed their position, their philosophical position remains the same as in July. Tribune-Herald.

Charges dropped against retired police captain. Charges against a retired Hawaii Police Department captain accused of tipping off arcade owners prior to a gambling raid have been dropped. Tribune-Herald.

Charges in a 2-year-old drug case have been dropped because of officer misconduct, a judge ruled. ose Miranda was charged in December 2017 with 11 counts of first-degree promoting a dangerous drug, class A felonies punishable by up to 20 years in prison. West Hawaii Today.

Councilwoman seeks affordable housing fund. The Big Island’s shortage of affordable housing is reaching the crisis stage, says a County Council member sponsoring a nonbinding resolution pushing for the creation of an affordable housing fund. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Woman Pulls Slug From Mouth After Eating Island Naturals Sandwich. A Hilo woman will have to wait about two weeks to find out if she’s contracted rat lungworm disease after nearly ingesting a half-inch slug on New Year’s Eve. Big Island Now.

Maui

Mahi Pono: ‘We are not profiting off water’. Officials offer details of approach to vital resource. Maui News.

New Self-Service Kiosk for Vehicle Registrations at Maui County Building. A new self-service DMV kiosk was installed and blessed today at the county’s Kalana O Maui Building, bringing to five, the total number available in Maui County. Maui Now.

Crab, lobster hearings next week. Hearings are set on Molokai, Lanai and Maui next week on a housekeeping consolidation of rules regulating the take, possession and sale of Samoan crab, Kona crab and lobsters in state waters. Maui News.

Maui fires burned 25,000 acres in 2019. Brush fires took their toll on Maui in 2019, setting ablaze more acres of land last year than in recent years, and in the process destroyed utility poles, amassed hundreds of thousands of dollars in costs by the county and displaced hundreds of people. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Hawaii Tour Helicopter Owner Rejects Congressman’s Criticism. Richard Schuman says the industry is safe and does not need increased federal regulation. Civil Beat.

Forums target climate change. The National Tropical Botanical Garden is holding another series of forums on climate change, starting in February, titled “Climate Crisis 2020.” Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai undergoes agricultural transformation using hydroponic greenhouses. Lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers are lined up to be part of the first commercial harvest from a pioneering hydroponic greenhouse farm on Lanai developed by technology billionaire Larry Ellison and envisioned for expansion to serve the state and potential replication beyond Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Sensei Farms Lanai’s greenhouses mix old and new technology. Paving over red dirt that was once part of the most productive pineapple plantation in the world might not seem like the way to start a positive transformation of agriculture on Lanai. Star-Advertiser.

Pearl Harbor Day ceremonies to go on despite shooting, Board of Education OKs teacher pay raises, Big Islanders fight free Wi-Fi, 21 cattle die on Kauai-bound barge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Arizona Memorial PC:U.S. Parks Service

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day commemoration will continue as planned Saturday. The annual commemoration ceremony marking the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor will continue as planned Saturday, three days after a US sailor killed two civilian workers and injured another before killing himself at the US naval base. CNN.

Navy sailor who killed 2 at Pearl Harbor shipyard was facing disciplinary proceeding. The U.S. Navy sailor who fatally shot two at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard on Wednesday and wounded a third was having disciplinary problems at work and had been enrolled in anger management courses, multiple sources confirm. Hawaii News Now.

Many questions hang over Pearl Harbor shooting. The troubled 22-year-old Pearl Harbor sailor identified as shooting three shipyard workers Wednesday and then killing himself may have come from a troubled ship. Star-Advertiser.

Gunman, two victims identified following Pearl Harbor shooting. The gunman and the two victims that died in Wednesday’s shooting incident at Pearl Harbor has been identified. KHON2.

30-year-old Wai'anae man identified as a victim in the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard shooting. One of the two men killed by a US sailor at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard was identified on Thursday as 30-year-old Vincent Kapoi Junior. KITV.

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School board approves plan to boost pay for special ed, Hawaiian immersion teachers. The Board of Education voted Thursday to give qualified, licensed teachers in the most critical shortage areas a big pay boost starting Jan. 7 to try to keep them on the job and attract more educators. Star-Advertiser.

BOE OKs pay increase for teachers in hard-to-fill positions. The state Board of Education on Thursday approved a proposal to address Hawaii’s continuing teacher shortage by increasing pay for classroom teachers in areas that have faced the most severe staff shortages. Tribune-Herald.

BOE Passes Teacher Pay Increases 7-2. Educators in specialized fields and hard-to-staff geographical areas are on track to receive extra compensation by January. Big Island Now.

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‘One Giant Pediatric Measles Ward’: A Samoan Hospital Is Overwhelmed. Some of Hawaii’s medical team in Samoa are providing care at the hospital, which is strapped for equipment, space and manpower. Civil Beat.

Samoans grateful for Hawaii medical team. An emergency medical team from Hawaii, along with Samoan volunteers and aid workers from other countries, immunized more than 20,000 residents on the first day of a mandatory vaccination campaign. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Trustees Differ Over New Audit’s Analysis. Colette Machado says it confirms the office is moving in the “right direction” but Kelii Akina sees fraud and abuse. Civil Beat.

Oahu

New HART Analyses Show Millions Of Dollars In Added Rail Costs. The projected costs to complete Honolulu’s 20-mile rail transit system have grown by about $70 million in the past four months, based on the local rail agency’s ongoing analyses of risks to the project. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell reaffirms support for plastics ban. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell Thursday reaffirmed that he will likely sign a bill approved by the City Council Wednesday that would ban most food-service type, single-use plastics on Oahu by 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Wi-Fi fears: Some don’t want free Wi-Fi at county facilities. Fear of radio wave exposure and a desire not to be around cellphone users inspired more than 50 people to send the County Council testimony opposing free Wi-Fi at county parks and facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Police operations on Mauna Kea are expensive ‘speed trap,’ county chairman says. Hawaii County police stationed on Mauna Kea have issued more than 7,600 traffic citations during the protests against the Thirty Meter Telescope, and a frustrated Hawaii County Council Chairman Aaron Chung is now describing police operations on the mountain as an enormously expensive “speed trap.” Star-Advertiser.

HELCO celebrates 125 years. At the end of the 19th century, Akima Brown Akui began working for the newly founded Hilo Electric Light Company. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Opponents become backers of West Maui development. Pulelehua plan with bump to 500 affordable units hammered out at meeting. The state Land Use Commission on Wednesday credited community engagement with producing an agreement that may finally help move forward a West Maui housing and commercial development project that’s stagnated for more than a decade. Maui News.

PUC contested case hearing underway for Paeahu Solar project. The state consumer advocate Wednesday warned about “pursuing clean energy goals at any cost” and allowing the pursuit of renewables that could leave developers and neighbors “fighting against each other.” Maui News.

New Ban on Maui: Commercial Ocean Recreation Activities Prohibited on Sundays and Holidays. Starting on Jan. 1, 2020, the County of Maui will prohibit Commercial Ocean Recreation Activities at County beach parks on Sundays and holidays. Maui Now.

Kauai

County hires Mel Rapozo. Former county councilmember Mel Rapozo has been hired as an investigator for the Kauai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, according to a county spokesperson. Garden Island.

Critics: Deaths of 21 cattle on barge bound for Kauai ‘cruel and inhumane’. State Agriculture Department officials said 21 cattle died while they were being transported on a Young Brothers barge bound for Kauai last month. Hawaii News Now.

Let the healing begin. Teenagers struggling with substance abuse will soon be able to get the treatment they need without leaving the island. Garden Island.

Lt. Gov. Green, medical delegation off to Samoa to fight measles, pay hikes for hard-to-place teachers, Kauai councilman refuses to step down after arrest, more news from all the Hawaii Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green M.D. with child. Screen grab from campaign video.

Lt Gov. Josh Green assembles health care workers for emergency medical mission to Samoa. Lt. Gov. Josh Green has assembled 76 people, including 50 nurses, doctors and other Hawaii health care workers, for an emergency medical mission to Samoa to help vaccinate residents amid a severe measles epidemic sweeping the nation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Sends A Medical Mission To Help Samoa Measles Crisis. A group of at least 65 health care professionals are flying to Samoa early Wednesday morning to administer vaccines. Civil Beat.

Hawaii flying in vaccines, large medical team to Samoa as deadly measles outbreak worsens. Lt. Gov. Josh Green will travel to Samoa with a team of medical professionals early Wednesday to assist with a measles outbreak that’s already killed 55 people. Hawaii News Now.

DOH Advises Travelers: Be On Alert For Measles. The Hawaii Department of Health on Tuesday warned travelers to be on alert for measles “as international outbreaks around the Pacific and elsewhere continue to increase.” Civil Beat.

DOH Alerts Travelers of Measles. The Hawaii Department of Health is advising travelers to be on alert for measles as international outbreaks around the Pacific and elsewhere continue to increase. Big Island Now.

Lawmaker Wants Hawaii To Cap Prescription Drug Prices. The House Health Committee chairman plans to introduce legislation modeled after a new Maryland law that creates a prescription drug price monitoring board. Civil Beat.

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Statewide bankruptcies climb to 4-year high. With one more month still to go, the number of Hawaii bankruptcies in 2019 already has reached its highest total in four years. Star-Advertiser.

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Pay hikes proposed for rural, special education and Hawaiian immersion teachers. The proposal calls for pay differentials of $10,000 a year for special education teachers, $8,000 for Hawaiian immersion teachers, and $3,000 to $8,000 for teachers in hard-to-staff areas, depending on the severity of the need. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Ige announces 14.5 million dollar plan to raise teacher salaries. There are 800 teacher vacancies that need to be filled, according to the Hawaii Department of Education. KITV.

State unveils teacher pay plan aimed at ending shortage of qualified educators. The schools superintendent, governor and other education leaders pitched what they called a bold plan aimed at ending the teacher shortage. Hawaii News Now.

State proposes pay increase for certain teachers. Officials hope to increase pay for classroom teachers in three areas: special education, Hawaiian language immersion programs, and hard-to-staff geographic locations. KHON2.

A proposal by the state Department of Education aims to address Hawaii’s teacher shortage by increasing pay for classroom teachers in areas that faced the most severe shortages: special education, Hawaiian language immersion programs and geographically hard-to-staff areas. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Announces Aggressive Plan To Take-On Teacher Shortage. The Hawaiʻi Department of Education, with the support of the governor, today introduced a proposal to tackle the state's teacher shortage through pay incentives. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i State Department of Education announced its proposal today on its efforts to tackle teacher shortages through increased pay. During a press conference at Central Middle School on O‘ahu, Gov. David Ige spoke about his support to provide extra compensation for teachers in special education, hard-to-staff geographical locations and Hawaiian Language Immersion programs. Big Island Now.

Board of Education teacher increased compensation plan can be found here.

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Former UH regent sues state over ‘gut and replace’ maneuver to downsize board. Jeff Portnoy, in a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court of Hawaii, argues that Act 172 unconstitutionally interferes with the university’s autonomy. Star-Advertiser.

New suit claims lawmakers sought to punish UH by reducing number of regents. Former University of Hawaii Regent Jeff Portnoy blasted state lawmakers over a new law shrinking the size of the UH board, calling it vindictive. Hawaii News Now.

Former UH Regent sues state over reduction in regents. A former University of Hawaii regent sues the state after lawmakers reduce the number of regents. KITV.

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Editorial: It’s Way Past Time For Independent Analysis Of The Cost Of Legislation. Nearly 30 years ago Hawaii passed legislation to create an independent legislative fiscal office, but it’s been ignoring the law. Civil Beat.

Oahu

WWII veterans given special welcome ahead of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremonies. Hawaiian Airlines hosted a special welcome for two World War II veterans Tuesday. KHON2.

USS Arizona survivor Lou Conter gets hero’s welcome as he arrives to mark attack’s anniversary. The men of daring and bravery who 78 years ago defended Oahu and fought through the world war that followed are faithfully returning to remember Pearl Harbor and the lives that were lost or forever altered in the deadliest conflict in history. Star-Advertiser.

Oldest living Filipino WWI vet on Oahu receives Congressional Gold Medal for 100th birthday. Francisco Benigno, Sr. survived the Bataan Death March and was 25 years old when he was honorably discharged. KITV.

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A letter sent out to parents Monday from a Wahiawa elementary school saying a student had the measles was wrong. State Health Department spokeswoman Janice Okubo says there is no new reported case of measles in the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

A measles scare at an Oahu school turns out to be false. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. KITV.

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Health Officials OK With 2045 Deadline For Red Hill But Many Call For Action Sooner. The Hawaii Department of Health gathered public comments Monday on a proposal to require underground fuel storage tanks like those at the U.S. Navy's Red Hill facility to have a secondary containment system or be moved by 2045. Hawaii Public Radio.

Single-use plastic ban bill scheduled for City Council vote Wednesday. Bill 40 CD1, which bans prepared single-use plastics from food vendors, is set to be voted on Wednesday in the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.

Kokua Hawai‘i Foundation plans community green space in Haleiwa Town. Fallow agricultural lands and two adjacent, historic commercial buildings in the heart of Haleiwa town have been acquired by Kokua Hawai‘i Foundation, the nonprofit environmental organization co-founded in 2003 by musician and North Shore native Jack Johnson and his wife, Kim Johnson, a former schoolteacher. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Some council members want more info before approving state funds for reimbursing police costs on Maunakea. Despite deep misgivings from some members, a County Council committee on Tuesday recommended the passage of a resolution that would grant the county $10 million in state funds to pay for police enforcement on Maunakea. Tribune-Herald.

New building permit system 3 months out. A multi-agency software system designed to streamline the planning and building permit process has been delayed another three months, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. West Hawaii Today.

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Recently formed lake in Halemaumau Crater the largest in at least 200 years. The greenish-blue, 520-foot long lake that recently formed at the bottom of Halemaumau Crater on Kilauea volcano amounts to the largest body of water inside the crater for at least the past 200 years, and U.S. Geological Survey scientists are keeping a wary eye on both the lake and what is happening below it. Star-Advertiser.

Council Gets Halemaʻumaʻu Crater Lake Presentation. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist Matt Patrick gave the Hawaiʻi County Council a presentation today on the Halemaʻumaʻu crater lake at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.

Entrance fees going up at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The current entrance fee of $25 per vehicle will jump to $30 on Jan. 1, 2020. Those entering on motorcycle will need to pay $25, and the cost of pedestrians or bicyclists will be $15. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii Island Humane Society appoints new CEO after unexpected resignation. The Hawaii Island Humane Society has a new CEO following the unexpected resignation of Charles Brown after just four months on the job. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

District tax could help fund erosion project. Council committee discusses levy on Kahana Bay owners. Maui News.

Mobile hygiene center open house held on Maui. On Maui, an open house was held Tuesday for the Ka Hale a Ke Ola mobile hygiene unit in the parking lot of the Kihei Community Center. KHON2.

Mayor’s chief of staff leaving post. Deidre Tegarden’s resignation set to take effect Dec. 15. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park Entrance Fees Increase January 1. Haleakala National Park, along with other national parks across America, will increase its entrance fees on Jan. 1.  Maui Now.

Mokulele contract for Hana extended to Jan. 31. Makani Kai to take over as Essential Air Service carrier. Maui News.

New battery system installed at island’s HI-5 recycling facilities. HiVE renewable energy storage units are providing safe and reliable backup power. Maui News.

Kauai

State AG to prosecute Brun. The Hawaii Attorney General’s office will be taking over for county prosecutors in the case against a Kauai County Councilmember charged with hitting a police officer with his car while fleeing the scene of a traffic stop a month ago. Garden Island.

You Won’t Need A Car If You Live In This New Urban Village. This former sugar town — Hawaii’s first plantation opened here in 1835 — is about to become the unlikely site of Kauai’s first urban village, a pedestrian friendly, small scale mix of shops, offices, restaurants and apartments. Civil Beat.

Ige backs teacher pay hikes, Common Cause worried about all-mail voting, Honolulu B&B tax vote coming, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. David Ige with schoolchildren PC:Governor's Office

Governor, superintendent seek pay raise to attract special ed teachers. The governor and schools superintendent want to raise the pay of special-education classroom teachers by $10,000 a year to attract more qualified educators and combat a severe shortage in the field. Star-Advertiser.

DOE Plan Would Boost Pay For Hard-To-Fill Teaching Positions. The state is hoping to find extra cash to sweeten the pot for teachers who work in remote areas or in areas that are chronically short staffed. Civil Beat.

Governor, DOE Seek Pay Increases To Keep Teachers In Special Ed, Hawaiian Language. In a news release, Ige's office said he is working with the Hawaii Department of Education and Board of Education to implement "bold retention and recruitment strategies" to address the shortages. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor backs pay hikes to recruit, retain teachers. Hawaii’s governor plans to announce support for pay increases to help recruit and retain teachers in special education, rural schools and Hawaiian language immersion, officials said. Associated Press.

Students join chorus of voices calling for higher teacher pay to tackle shortage. There’s a big push for better pay for teachers ― and it’s not just coming from the teachers themselves. Hawaii News Now.

How To Divvy Up Dollars For Special Needs Kids In Hawaii. A new policy for funding special education in Hawaii is touching off some fears it could mean dramatic cuts for some schools and the ability to provide services to disabled students. Civil Beat.

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More than two dozen WWII vets expected for 78th anniversary of Pearl Harbor attack. The 78th commemoration of the Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor is expected to include more than two dozen World War II veterans with the theme “Glimmers of Victory” that includes the United States fighting back with the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo, Battle of the Coral Sea and the turning point of Midway. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu summit to address airlines’ impact on climate. Representatives of the major airlines serving Hawaii will join local environmental and transportation industry officials in Honolulu Tuesday for a first-of-its-kind summit to discuss actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Star-Advertiser.

Government group raises alarm as state moves to all-mail voting. Common Cause Hawaii is urging election officials to open more than a handful of voter service centers next year to make sure voting numbers aren’t depressed as the state for the first time begins holding all-mail-in elections. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii's Housing Shortage Can't Be Solved Until Infrastructure Needs Are Addressed. Hawaii will need an additional 65,000 housing units statewide by 2025. Getting there will require more public infrastructure, like water, sewage, and electricity. Hawaii Public Radio.

Security Deposits Put Housing Out Of Reach For Some In Hawaii. As housing costs rise, renters have to cut bigger and bigger checks just to get in the door. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii lawmaker says money alone won’t ease the overcrowding in Hawaii jails. Instead of spending more money, a key Hawaii lawmaker want to find ways to keep more people out of jail. Hawaii News Now.

Postal Service Releases Hawaii Specific Holiday Mailing Dates. The U.S. Postal Service is offering shipping tips and mail volume information as the holiday shopping season gets underway. Big Island Video News.

Central Pacific rescuer, ex-CEO retiring from board. Turnaround specialist John Dean, who spearheaded the recapitalization of Central Pacific Bank following the recession and returned the company to profitability, plans to retire from the parent company’s board in the spring. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

B&B tax bill up for final vote. The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday is scheduled to take a final vote on a bill establishing how owners of vacation rentals are to be taxed, and three Council members have introduced different floor draft proposals to help ease the burden on those now operating previously permitted “whole home” transient vacation units. Star-Advertiser.

Controversial Bill 40, banning disposable plastics, up for final vote Wednesday. Environmental groups and local food manufacturers and restaurants remain at odds over how extensive the ban will be and its impact on small businesses. KITV.

Time running out for those hoping to oust city prosecutor with special election. The December 31 deadline looms for those looking to replace embattled city Prosecutor Attorney Keith Kaneshiro using a special election. Hawaii News Now.

The average rent for a one-bedroom in Honolulu is down 10%. The average rent for a one-bedroom in Honolulu dropped 10% in November compared to a year ago, according to a new analysis from real estate site Zumper. The site said the average rent for a one-bedroom in Honolulu last month was $1,600. Hawaii News Now.

Critics still not appeased by state’s proposed changes for Red Hill fuel tanks. With the future of the Navy's Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility still uncertain, critics on Monday urged the Hawaii Department of Health to dismiss its proposed rule changes for the state's underground storage tanks. Hawaii News Now.

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New health center by Queen’s to offer medical care in Kahala. The new health center is expected to open in the summer of 2020. Hawaii News Now.

Queen’s plans to open Kahala urgent care center in summer. The Queen’s Health Systems is opening a health center in Kahala as part of its strategy to increase outpatient services and decrease escalating emergency room visits for non-urgent conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Hospital Struggles In The Wake Of Sexual Misconduct Allegations. The top doctor at Hawaii’s only comprehensive medical rehabilitation hospital was fired this year after allegations of sexual misconduct, including sexual assault on hospital premises. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

More federal disaster funds slated for Big Island. Hawaii will receive another $26 million in new federal disaster relief funding, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Monday. Tribune-Herald.

County ready to prosecute old rape cases. Hawaii Island’s decade-long backlog of rape test kits have all been processed, and now it’s time to move onto the next step — investigating and prosecuting the cases. West Hawaii Today.

Construction on Kona emergency shelter project to begin next spring. Hawaii County expects to begin construction this spring on the Kukuiola emergency shelter project. West Hawaii Today.

They’ve Watched Our Climate Changing For Decades From High Atop Mauna Loa. For 60 years, scientists have documented the rising trend of carbon dioxide levels as fossil fuel emissions continue to increase. Civil Beat.

Anna Chiotti named Kona hospital CEO. The HHSC West Hawaii Region Board of Directors selected Anna Chiotti as the CEO of the West Hawaii region, which includes Kona Community Hospital and Kohala Hospital. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Tegarden Resigns as Mayor's Chief of Staff. Earlier today, the County of Maui announced that Deidre Tegarden has resigned as chief of staff of the Office of the Mayor, effective Dec. 15. Maui Now.

Talk focuses on ‘The Coral Pledge’. Maui Nui Marine Resource Council invites the public to a free talk at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 9 at The Sphere at Maui Ocean Center to learn about the “The Coral Pledge,” a new initiative to reduce human impacts on Hawaii’s reefs year-round. Maui News.

Kauai

New diesel buses for Kauai fleet. The Kauai Bus is set to receive six new diesel buses thanks to a Federal Transit Administration grant, and while it will serve to refresh the current fleet, it’s not bringing Kauai any closer to a full renewable fleet by 2045. Garden Island.

Federal funds for floods. Kauai will be getting $9 million in federal funding for flood relief. Garden Island.

Farms hit hard by natural disasters, Ige to stump for teacher pay hikes, Honolulu plastic ban vote nears, Maui residents fight solar project, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii farmers market produce ©2019 All Hawaii News

Natural disasters brought huge loss for Hawaii farms. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said natural disasters, including the Kilauea eruption, damaged and destroyed nearly 3,900 acres of Hawaii farms in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

Governor, DOE Seek Pay Increases To Keep Teachers In Special Ed, Hawaiian Language. Hawaii Gov. David Ige has scheduled a Tuesday press conference to announce his support for pay differentials for certain teachers in key hard-to-fill areas, specifically special education, rural schools and Hawaiian language immersion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaiser president bemoans insolvency in memo. Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, the state’s second-largest medical insurer, has fallen behind competitors in the volatile business of health care. Star-Advertiser.

What Are The Long-Term Impacts of Microplastic Pollution in Hawaii? The amount of microplastics washing up on Hawaiian beaches is expected to double by 2030. Civil Beat.

Child abuse registry case to go before high court. Courtney Bird, who was placed on the registry in 2007 without her knowledge, is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse a 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that she failed to file a lawsuit against the state Department of Human Services within the two-year statute of limitations. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Single-use plastics ban likely to pass. Oahu would have the strictest single-use plastics ban in the state under a bill that is likely to pass a final vote of the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Controversial Bill 40, banning single-use plastics, up for final vote Wednesday. A landmark disposable plastic ban bill, known as Bill 40, is scheduled to go before the City Council on Wednesday for a final vote. KITV.

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Rail project copes with new delays at a critical time. The next 100 days likely will determine whether the 20-mile Honolulu rail line will be finished by the city’s latest target date of December 2025, and there are signs there could be trouble ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Disabled Handi-Van Users Face Long Waits To Book Rides. City officials blame heavy call volumes and technological issues for a system that has been problematic for years. Civil Beat.

Graduation rates keep climbing at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. The on-time graduation rate for students at the University of Hawaii at Manoa has doubled in the last decade and now matches the national average for public universities. Star-Advertiser.

City Car Registration Kiosks Closed For Maintenance. The City and County of Honolulu is closing the vehicle registration kiosks Sunday and Monday for maintenance. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Aquarium trade proposes reopening West Hawaii fishery. The coastal waters off West Hawaii, closed to aquarium fishing for two years, would reopen to 14 commercial fishermen under a proposal described in environmental documents submitted to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Council to consider 2020 state priorities. As the 2020 session of the state Legislature draws near, county leaders are working to present a united front in advocating bills they think will improve local government. West Hawaii Today.

The final gavel: Judge Greg Nakamura retires after almost three decades on bench. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

PUC to hear contested case on Maui solar project. Residents coalition concerned about proximity and price. Maui News.

Off-the-grid Maui homestead marred by conflict. Multiple controversies have stoked anger, frustration and division within Kahikinui, the only homestead in DHHL’s 203,000-acre land trust in which leases were issued for raw land and management of the area was placed in the hands of homesteaders. Star-Advertiser.

Oysters, retiring old roads mulled to save reef. Maalaea Bay, watershed plan being implemented. Maui News.

Kauai

Golden Rule arrives. The small sailboat with a big mission, the Golden Rule, sailed into Nawiliwili Small Boat Harbor Sunday. Garden Island.

Ige's approval rating tanks in poll as more voters oppose Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea, flag flap at Keaau high school, Honolulu council seeks corruption audit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian cultural practitioners on Mauna Kea ©2019 All Hawaii News

Public support for TMT drops sharply, according to a new Honolulu Star-Advertiser poll. Public support for the Thirty Meter Telescope has declined sharply after more than two months of peaceful but determined protests on Mauna Kea, and most voters now oppose the idea of using force to reopen Mauna Kea Access Road to allow construction to move forward, according to a new Honolulu Star- Advertiser poll. Star-Advertiser.

Ige’s job approval rating tanks amid TMT debacle. Gov. David Ige’s job approval rating has sunk to a new low amid the ongoing standoff over the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea, though Hawaii voters have an even lower opinion of the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

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Tulsi Gabbard Earns Spot In October Debate. The Hawaii congresswoman will be back on the stage after missing the September debate. Civil Beat.

Audit: DOE misses millions in revenue. State auditors found that the Hawaii Department of Education has failed to collect millions of dollars in fees over the past decade and has no written policies or procedures in place to implement the process necessary to do so in the future. Garden Island.

Frustration, Desperation As Teachers Convene To Discuss Pay Issues. Consultants hired by the Hawaii Department of Education are meeting with educators around the state, seeking ways to improve compensation. On the first night they heard from many barely hanging on. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Police commissioner calls out city council during talk on public corruption scandal. Honolulu city council members want an audit done of local law enforcement agencies including the Honolulu Police Department, prosecuting attorney’s office and the ethics commission. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu officer charged with failure to report in urinal licking case. A Honolulu police officer has been charged with covering up for another officer in a case that involved forcing a homeless man to lick a public urinal. Hawaii News Now.

FBI raid of city records tied to Kealoha case, lawyers say. Members of a Honolulu City Council committee were told Tuesday that a raid of city computer servers earlier this year involved emails apparently tied to the federal corruption case that centered around former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, former Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Another Candidate Running For Manahan’s Council Seat. Jacob Aki is currently chief of staff to the Senate majority leader. Civil Beat.

Councilmembers question affordability of $773 million Blaisdell makeover. County lawmakers pressed for answers today on whether the city can afford to take on a $773 million redevelopment of Honolulu’s Neal S. Blaisdell Center. KHON2.


How much of the Blaisdell’s redevelopment will taxpayers pay for? The city isn’t sure. The city say plans for the projected $772 million redevelopment of the aging Blaisdell Center are moving along, and officials are working to secure a public private partnership for the project. Hawaii News Now.

Rent high? Don't blame short term rentals said expert. Oahu's shortage and higher costs of housing have been blamed on illegal short term rentals, but expects said that is not the case. KITV.

Chinatown Neighborhood Board Chair wants city to pack yellow bag rule. The Downtown-Chinatown rule for businesses to use new thick yellow trash bags isn’t popular among some in the community. KHON2.

Slopes of Diamond Head cleared of squatters in 2-week-long sweep.  After months of complaints, squatters are being forced off of the Diamond Head State Monument. Hawaii News Now.

Group elaborates on ideas to fix Koko Crater Trail. A non-profit group revealed its $100,00 plan to temporarily fix the dilapidated Koko Crater Trail. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Keaau High causes social media backlash after telling students not to wear flags as clothing. Officials at Keaau High School caused a stir online Monday after telling students not to wear Hawaiian Kingdom or Hawaii state flags on campus. Tribune-Herald.

Honua Ola gets go-ahead to drill deeper. The state Department of Health granted approval to Honua Ola Bioenergy, formerly known as Hu Honua Bioenergy, to drill three underground injection control wells to 800 feet at its power plant under construction at Pepeekeo. Tribune-Herald.

Is Aina Lea finally ready to be built? A South Kohala developer says it is moving forward with the Town of Aina Lea, while the county is reminding the company that all requirements must be met should the long-delayed project actually want to get off the ground. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Molina Addresses ‘Crisis-Level’ Affordable Housing Need. Councilmember Michael J. Molina has a new plan that might expand affordable housing opportunities for Maui families. Maui Now.

2 Dolphins Euthanized After Stranding On Maui Beach. There was another mass stranding in the same area less than a month ago. Civil Beat.


Two More Stranded Whales Euthanized Near Maui Beach. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists euthanized two pygmy killer whales Tuesday after the mammals stranded themselves on Sugar Beach in Kihei, Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

Two whales in separate pod euthanized after Sugar Beach stranding. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed that two pygmy killer whales stranded at Kihei’s Sugar Beach on Tuesday morning had to be euthanized based on their health. Maui News.

Two Stranded Whales Euthanized, Second Stranding Incident in Recent Weeks. Maui Now.

Wildlife officials euthanize 2 whales that were stranded on Maui beach. Hawaii News Now.

NOAA Fisheries responds to stranded pygmy killer whales near Sugar Beach. NOAA Fisheries responded to two pygmy killer whales (a member of the oceanic dolphin family) stranded on shore near Sugar Beach, Maui on Tuesday. KITV.

ABC Stores to build distribution center in Maui Lani Village. Owner purchases 40,000-square-foot lot for about $2M. Maui News.

A&B seeks 30-year water lease. It would allow EMI to divert water from East Maui streams. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor heads delegation to Japan. A contingent from Kauai led by Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami is headed on a good-will mission to Japan. Garden Island.

Council to meet today. Among the agenda items, it will consider a resolution to accept a public access easement to Kauapea Beach. Garden Island.

Legislature passes vacation rental tax bill, REIT tax; water rights bill dies, Maui mulls property tax hike, pilot in deadly copter crash was a newcomer, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Senators listen to debate PC: Hawaii Senate Majority

Vacation rental bill awaits Ige’s signature. A bill that critics say will aid the proliferation of illegal vacation rentals in Hawaii narrowly passed the Senate on Tuesday following an emotional floor debate that centered on whether the state was forsaking good public policy to go after $46 million in potential revenue from unpaid transient accommodation taxes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Senate Narrowly Votes To Tax Vacation Rentals. If signed by the governor, Airbnb and HomeAway could act as tax collectors on behalf of the state. Civil Beat.

State Senate Revives Vacation Rental Regulation. The State Senate revoted on and passed SB 1292 imposing short term rental taxes by a margin of 13-12. The bill, already approved by the House of Representatives, now goes to Gov. David Ige for signature or veto. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Senate narrowly passes vacation rental tax bill. The state Senate on Tuesday narrowly passed a bill that would require websites such as Airbnb to collect and pay taxes on behalf of short-term vacation rental hosts, sending the measure to the governor. Associated Press.

Hawaii Senate narrowly passes vacation rental tax bill. Hawaii News Now.

Taxing of vacation rentals could become law. KHON2.

Senate votes to allow tax collection on vacation rentals. Pacific Business News.

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Senate Takes No Action On Water Rights Bill. Leaders say House Bill 1326 is dead for certain in the 2019 session, which wraps Thursday. Civil Beat.

Iconic Hawaii Properties Could Soon Pay More Taxes. Hawaii legislators voted overwhelmingly to impose a new corporate tax on real estate investment trusts, but now it’s up to the governor to decide. Civil Beat.

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Investment firm offers to help Hawaii teachers buy homes. A company that helps educators buy homes in high-cost communities has “landed” in Hawaii with a $25 million bankroll envisioned to help improve chronically poor public school teacher retention. Star-Advertiser.

Partnership Aims To Help Hawaii Teachers Buy Homes. A San Francisco company unveiled a new partnership with state education and business leaders to help school teachers afford to buy homes here. Civil Beat.

A new program announced today aims to help K-12 teachers in the state purchase a home. It's the result of a partnership with local leaders and a mainland firm with a connection to Mark Zuckerberg. Hawaii Public Radio.

New program is aimed at helping teachers buy in Hawaii, but union urges caution. On Tuesday, Gov. David Ige, schools Superintendent Kristina Kishimoto and leaders with the Hawaii Community Foundation and Hawaii Executive Conference announced a partnership with San Francisco-based company, Landed, which helps a buyer get a shared home. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Ballard addresses abuse allegations against 4 officers. The Honolulu Police Department is stepping up counseling and training in the wake of recent arrests of four officers linked to separate misdemeanor domestic violence charges. Star-Advertiser.

Why Is It So Hard To Fire Honolulu Police Sgt. Darren Cachola? Every year, a number of Honolulu police officers are investigated and even charged with domestic abuse. Civil Beat.

HPD officers accused in federal corruption case still getting pay checks. Lieutenant Derek Hahn, Officer Bobby Nguyen and Sergeant Danny Sellers are still paid Honolulu Police Officers, more than two years after the Department of Justice sent target letters and about 18 months after they were indicted by a federal grand jury. Hawaii News Now.

HPD Sergeant Convicted In Corruption Scheme Will Stay On The Job. There’s a limit to the number of days a police officer can go on leave without pay so the chief wants him to perform administrative duties. Civil Beat.
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Pilot in deadly chopper crash had moved to the islands just 20 days ago. Family members said the 28-year-old pilot killed Monday when a tour helicopter slammed into a busy Kailua street had moved to the islands just 20 days ago. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu businesses plead guilty to more than 50 tax violations. Nine Oahu businesses pleaded guilty to dozens of counts of tax violations this week, according to the state’s Department of Taxation. Hawaii News Now.

Bulky-item pickup by appointment only debuts from Hawaii Kai to Foster Village. Starting May 15 residents from Foster Village to Hawaii Kai — including busy Waikiki — will have to go online to schedule appointments for bulky-item pickup service. Star-Advertiser.

High bacteria counts were found at various beaches in the Waikiki area including Kuhio Beach, Lanikai Beach shoreline, Kahanamoku Beach and Kuhio Beach. KITV.

Developer Irongate has set its sights on a lofty new expansion: The company is converting the penthouse floors in the Diamond Head Tower of the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, into an exclusive fractional-­ownership club. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

If department heads had their way, there would be 51 new positions added to the county workforce on top of the 72 already proposed by Mayor Harry Kim. But the final budget Kim will send to the County Council on Friday will contain just a fraction of that. West Hawaii Today.

Tentative deal reached in brewery lawsuit. The parent company of Kona Brewing Co. has agreed on a tentative settlement with the plaintiffs in a lawsuit filed two years ago over allegations that the company’s packaging and advertising misleads customers. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island inmate to receive large settlement in case over a stolen lunch box. The state will pay a Big Island inmate more than $100,000 in a settlement after he claimed guards beat him up over a lunch box. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Council budget committee OKs across the board tax hike that nets $17.7M more than mayor’s budget. Public hearing on proposed property tax rates May 10. Maui News.

Maui Court Voids Final EIS Approval for Kahului Sludge Farm. The waste-to-energy project is proposed for development by the County of Maui with Anaergia Services and its subsidiary MANA at the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility near Kanaha. Maui Now.

Maui Land & Pine reports $1.1 million 1st-quarter loss. Legal costs from lawsuits dating back 10 years contributed to loss. Maui News.

Kauai

BLNR lawsuit moves forward. A Fifth Circuit judge on Tuesday ruled that a lawsuit brought against the state Board of Land and Natural Resources by a Kauai concrete company over $1 million worth of sand can move forward. Garden Island.

County Council to consider audits. The Kauai County Council this morning will discuss authorizing the audits of several departments based on concerns about potentially illegal mismanagement of federal government funds, overtime abuse, pension spiking, low morale and managerial incompetence. Garden Island.

Legal TVRs can resume operations. Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami has signed an eighth supplementary emergency proclamation for the County of Kauai, and has amended the emergency rule and order as it applies to legal Transient Vacation Rentals in the Lumahai, Wainiha, and Haena area. Garden Island.

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Kuhio Highway won’t reopen until late May. he reopening date for Kuhio Highway on the North Shore set for today has been postponed until the week of May 20. Garden Island.

Officials Postpone Kuhio Highway Reopening In Wake Of Community Concerns. State transportation officials plan to delay the full reopening of Kauai's Kuhio Highway until the week of May 20 following concerns raised by residents in the area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Controversial reopening of Kuhio Highway on Kauai is delayed. The state’s reopening of a 2-mile-stretch of Kuhio Highway, which has been closed to non-local traffic for more than a year, is now anticipated to take place May 20 — weather permitting. Star-Advertiser.

Full opening of Kuhio Highway is delayed by work on Waikoko bridge. KHON2.

Hawaii mulls road usage charge, sanctuary bill dies in Legislature, economic growth slowdown predicted, Maui jail riot likely caused by overcrowding, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii road ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hawaii transportation officials consider swapping gas tax for road-use charge. The state Department of Transportation wants the public to weigh in on the concept of a road usage charge to fund the upkeep of state roads and bridges, and is holding 14 community meetings about the possibilities in the next few months. Star-Advertiser.

Public Meetings Scheduled For Potential Road Usage Charge. The state Department of Transportation will be holding community meetings across the state starting on March 20 in Kapolei to get feedback on a possible road usage charge. Hawaii Public Radio.

State proposes nixing fuel tax in favor of charging you for how much you drive. Hawaii News Now.

DOT plans community meetings to discuss road usage charge demonstration project. Tribune-Herald.

State residents will get a chance in coming weeks to give input during a series of meetings planned throughout the state about a concept to replace the state fuel tax with a road usage charge. West Hawaii Today.

The state is seeking public feedback on the concept of a road usage charge to fund upkeep of roadways and bridges. Big Island Video News.

Public input needed for possible "road usage charge". KHON2.

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Hawaii immigrant sanctuary bill dies in state Legislature. A bill that would have made Hawaii the third so-called sanctuary state for immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally has died at the state Legislature. Associated Press.

The state is taking a step back from setting up Hawaii as a sanctuary for illegal immigrants in the U.S., a decision people on Kauai were calling for as the topic moved through the Legislature. Garden Island.

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Revenue Council Predicts Slowdown In State Economic Growth. The forecast means a little less money is available for the Hawaii Legislature this session, but leaders of the money committees aren’t too concerned. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's predicted to bring in about $80 mil fewer dollars in tax revenue this fiscal year. At their last meeting in January, the Council on Revenues forecasted the economy to grow 4.2% for fiscal year 2018/2019. They've now lowered it to 3%. KITV.

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Two bills that aim to improve teacher retention made it through the state Senate and now are before the state House for consideration. Senate Bill 12 and Senate Bill 114 call for the creation of a housing voucher program for teachers employed by the state Department of Education or at public charter schools. Tribune-Herald.

School Chief Chooses Some Of The People Helping To Evaluate Her. While this feedback doesn’t affect the superintendent’s year-end performance rating, it’ll be followed closely by the Board of Education. Civil Beat.

Movement afoot to establish Hawaiian Recognition Day as state holiday. A push to establish La Kuokoa -- Hawaiian Recognition Day -- as an official state holiday and repeal Good Friday from among the state’s official holidays is gaining steam at the state Legislature. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Judge allows some evidence of motive in Kealohas’ trial. A federal judge granted part of a motion filed by federal prosecutors to admit certain evidence of the motive by the former police chief and his former deputy prosecutor wife to frame a relative for the theft of their mailbox. Star-Advertiser.

Judge rules bank fraud evidence can't be used in Kealoha corruption trial. Allegations of bank fraud and theft will not be allowed in the Kealoha trial accusing them of framing a relative for mailbox theft. KHON2.

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A face to face meeting with Federal Transit Authority over the revised financial recovery plan for Honolulu’s rail project is expected to happen in April. Hawaii Public Radio.

Registration deadline approaches for City Council special election. The deadline to register for April’s electoral rematch between Trevor Ozawa and Tommy Waters to represent Honolulu City Council District IV is quickly approaching. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s congressional delegation said it wants monthly updates from the acting director of the National Park Service on progress being made to restore walk-on access to the USS Arizona Memorial. Star-Advertiser.

5-foot-long boa constrictor found in Kunia. Snakes pose a serious threat to Hawaii's environment, as they have no natural predators. KITV.

Hawaii Island

The county official charged with ensuring building permit laws are followed didn’t get building, plumbing or electrical permits for a solar water and photovoltaic system on his own property until 23 years after the fact. West Hawaii Today.

Puna police resolution elicits emotional testimony. A resolution asking for more police officers for Puna cleared the Hawaii County Council’s Public Safety Committee on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Emotional Testimony On Situation Facing Police In Puna, Ka'u. Big Island Video News.

The University of Hawaii today said its investigation into the ski and snowboard incident at Mauna Kea earlier this year found no damage to cultural, archaeological, natural or scientific resources. Star-Advertiser.

As the developer of the Thirty Meter Telescope prepares for construction atop Mauna Kea, opponents of the billion-dollar-plus project continue to press their case with demonstrations at universities in Hawaii and on the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake shook parts of the Big Island early Wednesday, but officials said there’s no tsunami threat to the state. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui mayor delivers State of the County address, outlining priorities. Maui Mayor Mike Victorino struck a message of making Maui a welcoming place early on in his State of the County address Tuesday evening. Hawaii News Now.

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Severe overcrowding at Maui’s jail is likely what led to an uprising at the facility Monday afternoon that left three staff members with minor injuries, according to Nolan Espinda, director of the state Department of Public Safety. Star-Advertiser.

The riot at Maui Community Correction Center on Monday was actually the second inmate uprising at the aging facility in less than a year, officials said. Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda said overcrowding was at the root of both incidents, and he fears more violence could be in store. Hawaii News Now.

Overcrowding. Public Safety officials say that could be a big reason for Monday's riot at Maui's jail. The damage prisoners caused from the incident has made things even worse. KHON2.

Internal and criminal investigations are underway following an disturbance at the Maui Community Correctional Center yesterday that left several staff members with minor injuries. Hawaii Public Radio.

42 Inmates Refused Order During MCCC Disturbance. Maui Now.

Standoff at Maui jail: ‘Disturbance’ at MCCC resolved after 3 1/2 hours. No injuries reported in incident that closed roads, drew heavy police, fire presence. Maui News.

Inmates wreck module at MCCC after staff advise them to return to their cells. KITV.

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Beach neighbors plan, propose to pay for multimillion-dollar groin repairs. Rock structures were constructed pre-1944 to stem sand loss and shoreline recession. Maui News.

The Kahana Bay Steering Committee is proposing a beach nourishment project to restore a coastline that’s been severely eroded from sea level rise, frequent storms and seawalls. Maui News.

Kauai

Film crews shooting scenes on Kauai. A un-named film crew records a man digging through the garbage for his lost wedding ring Sunday night at the Hilton Garden Inn Sunday. The general manager of the resort said that there are two production crews staying at the resort currently, but is bound by a confidentiality agreement to not reveal their identity. Garden Island.

Kauai graffiti: Works of art, or public nuisance. Garden Island.