Schatz tests positive for COVID, tests lost, delayed, denied as program falters across the islands, Maui mayor recall effort fails, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, in video chat

Sen. Brian Schatz tests positive for COVID-19. He is the second member of Hawaii’s congressional delegation to contract COVID-19. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now.

Health Regulators Want Budget Boost Amid Covid, Drinking Water Crises. The Hawaii Department of Health wants taxpayers to fund more than 20 new full-time employees to address long-standing staffing shortages and pay more than $23 million to fix infrastructure inadequacies as the coronavirus pandemic continues to strain the agency. Civil Beat.

DOE Officials Preview Budget Priorities To Hawaii Lawmakers. The interim superintendent, meanwhile, apologized for the recent failure of dozens of schools to report the number of Covid cases as required by law. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

State librarian asks for $1M security boost against COVID pandemic crime wave. The state librarian, Stacey Aldrich, said the COVID pandemic has led to disturbing behavior at several public libraries across the state. KHON2.

Will This Bureaucratic Tug Of War Over Hawaii’s Ag Lands Finally End? Ranchers are fed up with two decades of waiting for the departments of Agriculture and Land and Natural Resources to sort out legally mandated land transfers. Civil Beat.

Annual Statewide Count Of Hawaii’s Homeless Population Postponed. The 2022 Point-in-Time count of homeless people in Hawaii, which had been slated for Jan. 27, was delayed to March 10 in response to an uptick of Covid-19 cases within the last few weeks. Civil Beat.

Omicron surge compounding some grocery store shortages. For stores in Hawaii, where new daily COVID-19 cases counts have climbed with the spread of the omicron variant, goods are generally available — but some aisles are punctuated by bits of bare shelving. Star-Advertiser.

FEMA assists hundreds of Hawaii families with funeral costs. Those who lost a loved one to COVID-19 could still be eligible for federal financial assistance of up to $9,000 for funeral expenses incurred on or after Jan. 20, 2020. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii records 4 new coronavirus-related deaths, 3,392 additional infections. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 2,443 new cases on Oahu, 162 on Hawaii Island, 522 on Maui, 201 on Kauai, 16 on Molokai, seven on Lanai and 41 Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Staff shortages force Diagnostic Laboratory Services to close some COVID-19 testing sites. DLS, which describes itself as the largest, locally owned clinical testing laboratory in Hawaii, has temporarily closed at least half a dozen sites, including locations in Hawaii Kai, Wahiawa, Ewa and the Queens Physicians Office Building II on Lusitana Street. Star-Advertiser.

COVID cases surge at Oahu correctional facilities with positivity rates reaching 25%. The state Department of Public Safety said 45 inmates and one staff member tested positive on Thursday at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

Former council members expect to be witnesses against indicted ex-city officials. Former Honolulu City Council members say they’re not surprised that prosecutors indicted three ex-city executives for their roles in the payoff of the ex-police chief in 2017. Hawaii News Now.

City wants public opinion on how to spend millions in federal dollars. The city wants the public to weigh in on how it should spend the $386 million awarded through the American Rescue Plan Act. Star-Advertiser.

Residences for Innovative Student Entrepreneurs breaks ground at University of Hawaii Manoa. A ceremonial groundbreaking took place Thursday on a new extension of the school’s campus where a $70 million complex is to be developed with dorms and education space for students pursuing entrepreneurship. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Citizens’ group to file lawsuit against Navy to ensure safe defueling process. A new citizens’ group is preparing a lawsuit against the Navy over its Red Hill fuel storage facility. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers: Red Hill Fuel Leaked Into Well Through A Pipeline Navy Didn’t Know Existed. Navy officials didn’t know about the pipeline until someone reviewed the facility’s schematics from 1941, lawmakers who took a tour said they were told. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Beach rescue tubes installed to prevent Kailua drownings. Residents say the sea appears deceptively safe, but rip currents lurk beneath the surface and can pull a swimmer out. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lost in transit: More than 400 COVID test swabs deemed ‘invalid,’ retesting urged. Hundreds of people who waited hours in line for a COVID test Friday at Old Kona Airport Park learned Thursday that those tests were lost in transit. Some 407 individuals tested on Jan. 7 by the Hawaii County-contracted TrueCare24 received the letter via email informing them of “frustrating news” about testing conducted at the county park last week. West Hawaii Today. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island Hele-On will come to temporary stop Sunday for employee disability training. The Big Island’s Hele-On bus and paratransit services will not be operating on Sunday, Jan. 23 due to training. KHON2.

Rooftop solar systems up 5.3% statewide. The number of solar rooftop systems increased 4.35% last year on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui mayor recall attempt fails due to insufficient signatures. The recall effort needed to gather 21,586 signatures, which is equivalent to 20% of the 107,930 registered voters in Maui County during the 2020 general election. But in two attempts, the group known as RecallVictorino.org brought in a total of 1,677 valid signatures. Associated Press. Maui News.

Keawakapu parking update: BLNR decision expected Friday. The future of public beach parking at Keawakapu in South Maui surfaces for consideration before the state Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday. Maui Now.

DLNR Aerial assessment of Molokaʻi axis deer illustrates extent of overpopulation. New aerial footage of Molokaʻi shows just how extensive the axis deer population has gotten, and the threats that it is posing to agriculture and forested lands.  Maui Now. KITV4. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

COVID-19 testing options limited throughout island. Finding testing island-wide has been a challenge with reports of people waiting in line for up to four hours at some testing sites. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now.

Project for access to Hideaways moves forward. Public access of the trail to Kenomene (Hideaways) Beach is on its way to officially being conveyed to the county. Thursday, the Open Spaces Commission recommended authorization of up to $1.5 million to make the trail safer and more accessible, in addition to recommending purchasing of the easement. Garden Island.

$30M worth of COVID test kits go to waste, Maui church refuses to stop in-person services amid virus cluster, statewide cases continue steady increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID-19 test Photo by Mufid Majnun on Unsplash

Some $30 million worth of COVID-19 test kits purchased by the state have expired as they sat in storage, despite at least one county request to use them. The state Health Department said it is working to get federal approval for an extension to use the 672,000 kits, but that could be a lengthy process. Hawaii News Now.

Despite uptick in new cases, governor says he’s not considering tighter restrictions. He said while people seem to be less careful, he’s monitoring the numbers and isn’t clamping down on restrictions for now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Supreme Court May Lift COVID-19 Order To Free Inmates Without Bail. The order was designed to reduce jail populations and limit the spread of COVID-19, but infections in jails have stabilized, the court says. Civil Beat.

New Sunshine Rules Would Require Requests For Some In-Person Meetings. Senate Bill 1034 would still allow for physical meetings, but there are worries that one provision in the bill could limit meeting access to some individuals. Civil Beat.

Biden’s $2 Trillion Infrastructure Could Bring Billions To Hawaii. The president will unveil his American Jobs Plan, which has the potential to infuse huge sums of money into the islands’ transportation and energy infrastructure. Civil Beat.

Biden Plan To Conserve More Ocean Habitat Worries Hawaii Fishing Interests. Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council wants to know exactly what defines “conservation” under the Biden 30 by 30 plan — and whether it would lead to more no-fish zones such as the one within the largest conservation area on earth: the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, which encompasses the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Civil Beat.

Local entrepreneur Cecil Morton to start ride-hailing company, Holoholo. Cecil Morton, who has been in the tourism transportation business in Hawaii for 20 years on four islands as owner of SpeediShuttle, is launching driver recruitment for holoholo today at driveholoholo.com. Star-Advertiser.

Local Community Health Centers Receive $32M From Stimulus Bill. Fourteen community health centers throughout the islands are receiving about $32 million from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act, the latest federal COVID-19 stimulus bill. Hawaii Public Radio.

More cases slipping through cracks of travel program. The report, which has not been peer reviewed, said that seven out of 1,000 travelers who bypass quarantine via Hawaii’s Safe Travels program probably have COVID-19. State officials had said that fewer than one out of 1,000 travelers using the pre-testing plan would likely bring the illness. Maui News.

DOH Reports Greater Vaccine Supply. The Hawai‘i Department of Health is asking its District Health Offices on the neighbor islands to expand vaccine eligibility as needed to ensure all available vaccination slots are filled. Maui Now.

March 31, 2021 COVID-19 Update: The state Department of Health reports that there were 100 additional COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Wednesday, including 42 on O‘ahu, 30 on Maui, 16 on Hawai‘i Island, one on Kaua‘i, one on Lāna‘i, and 10 in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed while out of state. Maui Now.

Oahu

Building industry workers say drastic changes needed at city department after bribery charges. Three city workers accused of accepting bribes to speed up the permitting process made their first appearance in federal court on Wednesday, March 31. KHON2. Star-Advertiser.

Homeowner says former DPP employee arrested by FBI delayed his permits back in 2015. Ian Lind said the FBI’s investigation of the DPP has its roots in his “frustrating” experience with Inouye and the permitting process. He believes he’s one of many homeowners who was allegedly shaken down by DPP officials. Hawaii News Now.

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands gets Ewa Beach land for homesteads. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has told the federal government it will accept an 80-acre parcel in Ewa Beach that the state agency plans to eventually redevelop to provide homesteads for Native Hawaiians, many of whom have waited years for such offerings. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

More Oahu homeless residents dying from meth overdoses. On average, every three days a homeless resident dies on Oahu's streets. Many of those sudden deaths are being blamed on meth, and so are the chronic conditions killing off this vulnerable population. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Hawai´i County Official Positive For COVID-19, Contact Tracing to Begin ‘Promptly’. Contact tracing has begun among the ranks of the Hawai´i County Mayor’s Office following a county official testing positive for COVID-19.  Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Roth wants Van Pernis off Leeward Planning Commission. Mayor Mitch Roth wants to oust Mark Van Pernis from the powerful Leeward Planning Commission, in what could be an unprecedented action that is, however, within the authority of the mayor and County Council as defined by the county charter. West Hawaii Today.

‘A WALL OF WATER’: Survivors reflect on devastating tsunami that struck Hilo 75 years ago. The early morning of April 1, 1946, seemed at first to be the start of a normal Monday for residents of Hilo and surrounding villages. Tribune-Herald.

HTA’s Big Island action plan embraces ‘regenerative tourism’. A new plan for tourism on the Big Island highlights the potential for using sustainable tourism to preserve and improve management of resources on the island. Tribune-Herald.

Miloliʻi Vaccinations Push Hawaiian Fishing Village Toward Herd Immunity. The old Hawaiian fishing village of Miloliʻi on Hawaiʻi Island is on its way to achieving herd immunity against COVID-19. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

King’s Cathedral is rejecting health officials’ advice and planning Easter services with COVID-19 precautions. The state Department of Health on Wednesday took the unusual step of naming King’s Cathedral as the source of an “imminent health threat” posed by a large coronavirus cluster numbering more than 50 cases, with the infected ranging in age from 10 to 77. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

More than Half of New COVID-19 Cases on Maui are Variants. Health officials say more than half of the COVID-19 cases on Maui at this point, as identified through weekly reports, are represented by “variants of concern,” B.1.429 and B.1.427. Maui Now.

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino proposes vaccination passport, additional coronavirus testing on arrival. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is proposing changes to Hawaii’s COVID-19 travel restrictions, including a pilot “vaccination passport” program and mandatory rapid testing at Kahului Airport for arriving passengers. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. KHON2.

Man gets 10 days in jail for violating emergency rules. A judge told a man to “start paying attention, follow the rules,” as he was sentenced to 10 days in jail for twice violating emergency rules by not wearing a face mask. Maui News.

Kauai

Discount Cards for Kaua‘i Visitors Who Take 2nd COVID-19 Test After Arrival. Kauai visitors will receive a discount card for local businesses if they voluntarily take a second coronavirus test three days after arrival, in addition to the required test before travel. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai Wants To Reopen Beaches. That Could Put Homeless Back On The Streets. The county’s shelter-in-place program granted some homeless people a measure of stability. Now that it’s over, they say they have nowhere to go. Civil Beat. Garden Island.

Officials question readiness to reopen Hawaii to travelers, Ige to pick Supreme Court justice, film and TV production restarting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Hawaii Supreme Court building ©2020 All Hawaii News

Gov. David Ige Mulling Over His First Hawaii Supreme Court Nominee. The governor’s choice will likely be vetted by the Senate in November. Civil Beat.

State Supreme Court Nominees to be Considered. Gov. David Ige has received a list of four nominees from the Judicial Selection Commission for Associate Justice on the Supreme Court. Big Island Now.

Governor’s office seeks input on nominees for state Supreme Court. The Judicial Selection Commission sent Ige a list of four names for associate justice on the Supreme Court. The names include: Todd W. Eddins, David M. Forman, Darolyn Lendio Heim and Benjamin E. Lowenthal. Hawaii News Now.

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Contact Tracing Program Continues To Struggle, Despite Additional Staff. The Hawaii Department of Heath’s troubled contact tracing program is reporting new issues, even after an influx of new staff. Hawaii Public Radio.

Trans-Pacific travel: Ready for prime time? Kim says no. With just two weeks remaining to get it all together, Hawaii’s pretest trans-Pacific travel plan is not ready for prime time, Mayor Harry Kim said Tuesday, a sentiment echoed by two recent travelers to the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kawakami wants all visitors to take a COVID-19 test after arriving on Kaua'i Mayor Kawakami sent a proposal for a post-arrival test program to Governor David Ige that would require visitors to get tested within 72 hours after arrival in order to avoid a 14-day quarantine, if Governor Ige grants his permission. KITV4.

Councilman calls on the governor to prove Hawaii is ready to welcome back visitors. A city council member and some residents are calling on the governor to show the state can handle the launch of Hawaii’s trans-pacific travel program. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Prepares For Tourism Increase On October 15. Plans to carefully reopen Hawaiʻi to tourism were discussed on Monday during a virtual meeting of the Hawaiʻi House Select Committee on COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness. Big Island Video News.

More hotels announce reopening dates after pre-travel testing takes effect. More hotels have announced plans to reopen after the Oct. 15 pre-travel testing program takes effect, but even with more rooms online, some in the lodging industry are keeping low expectations on the number of visitors. KHON2.

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State: More than 40,000 Hawaii residents have lost private health insurance amid pandemic. According to the state Department of Human Services, enrollment in the state Med-Quest or Medicaid program has jumped 13% to a record 376,000 residents ― from 333,000 in September 2019. Hawaii News Now.

How to register for the Department of Education's virtual job fair on Wednesday. The DOE is looking to fill roughly 400 teacher positions for the current school year at a virtual job fair taking place on Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. KITV4.

Despite $420M loan, Hawaiian Airlines job cuts loom. Hawaiian Airlines got a lifeline worth up to $420 million on Tuesday from the Treasury Department, but the CARES Act loan alone won’t stave off the more than 2,500 job reductions that are anticipated at the state’s largest airline. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 Is Revealing Problems With How Hawaii’s Government Uses Data. There doesn’t seem to be a clear data strategy for the virus response. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i Film, TV Production Restarting Despite Pandemic.There are definite signs of life in Hawai'i's film industry. Season three of "Magnum PI" is underway, and other productions are shooting on Hawai'i island and Maui. Hawaii Public Radio.

State plan would dish out free restaurant meals for the unemployed. Unemployed residents and struggling restaurants in Hawaii could soon share $67 million in federal coronavirus aid under a new state plan. Star-Advertiser.

A new program could allow those out of work to eat at restaurants for free. A new program is in the works to help Hawaii’s jobless families and restaurants. Those out of work would eat for free and the federal government would pick up the tab. Hawaii News Now.

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PBS Hawaii President and CEO Leslie Wilcox stepping down. Wilcox, a lifelong Hawaii resident who has been at the helm of the public television station since 2007, will relocate to San Antonio to be with an ailing family member. Star-Advertiser.

Leslie Wilcox stepping down as president, CEO of PBS Hawaii after 14 years. Wilcox leaves behind a 48-year legacy of shaping local media in the islands. Hawaii News Now.

Leslie Wilcox to step down as President and CEO of PBS Hawaii. After 14 years, the President and CEO of PBS Hawai’i, Leslie Wilcox, announced she will be stepping down from her position. KHON2.

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VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 29: 87 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 87 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, including three in Hawaii County, two on Maui, and two out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Group of bar owners planning to sue city and Mayor for keeping bars closed. The Hawaii Bar Owner's Association says it is planning legal action to force city to let them open again. KITV4.

HPD Crime-Solving Record Is The Worst Its Been In At Least 40 Years. HPD won’t talk about it, but FBI data shows Honolulu has one of the worst records in the country when it comes to solving property crimes as well as violent crimes. Civil Beat.

TheHandi-Van users want fare increase delayed. Testifiers and users of TheHandi-Van voiced support for increasing the fare to ride, but said it should not be implemented now when many people are struggling from the COVID-19 outbreak in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Liliha Healthcare Center tracks COVID-19 cluster with 27 infections reported. The Liliha Healthcare Center reported Tuesday night that 21 residents and six staff have tested positive for coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Liliha nursing home hit with coronavirus outbreak. A Liliha nursing home is scrambling to contain a COVID-19 outbreak that has so far sickened 21 residents and six staff members. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Army: State Needs To Renew Lease For Big Island Training Area. Artillery is playing an increasingly prominent role in global conflicts, but opponents say the training there threatens environment and community health. Civil Beat.

$2.2 Million For Ahalanui Park, Taken By Lava In 2018. The new FEMA money may be used to restore the park at its current location, or at an alternate site, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz says. Big Island Video News.

$2.2M heading to Hawaii County to restore park destroyed in 2018 eruption. More federal funding is heading to Hawaii Island to continue recovery efforts from the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Hawaii News Now.

Hopeful in Honokaa: Businesses struggle with lack of visitors, eye Oct. 15 reopening. A mandatory 14-day quarantine for trans-Pacific travelers has all but eliminated out-of-state visitors to the former plantation town, and many business owners wonder how long they can hang on. Tribune-Herald.

Palani Road work nearing completion. Palani Road is anticipated to return to two-lane travel between Kailua Pier and Kuakini Highway next week. West Hawaii Today.

Kim still hopeful breakwater study can start soon. An investigation into whether alterations to the Hilo Bay breakwater can improve the bay’s water quality might still go forward next month despite COVID-related disruptions. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island Voters Will Decide 16 County Charter Amendments. The issues include County Council term lengths and giving the council and certain boards more disciplinary powers. Civil Beat.

Maui

Temptation Island Starts Filming This Week, Two Other Productions Planned on Maui. Maui Film Commissioner Tracy Bennett provided an update on the production of the reality TV show, Temptation Island, which starts filming this week at the Andaz Maui at Wailea resort. Maui Now.

Two more projects to film on Maui. Two more productions will film in paradise against the backdrop of the pandemic, joining the reality show “Temptation Island,” which starts filming this week on Maui. Maui News.

Hospital worker who was critical of facility’s administration fired. An outspoken Maui Memorial Medical Center nurse who has criticized the hospital’s handling of two COVID-19 outbreaks as well as its virus protocols for staff and patients has been terminated. Maui News.

Community rallies around longtime Haiku teacher. Monica Nakahashi placed on leave while investigation pending. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor: Kaua’i aims for upscale tourism. Mayor Derek Kawakami participated in a five-person-panel, Zoom discussion Tuesday, “Restarting Hawai‘i’s Tourism Industry.” Garden Island.

Planning Department front counter closed. The county Planning Department’s front counter at the Kapule Building in the Lihu‘e Civic Center is closed now through Monday, Oct. 12, while the area undergoes construction. Garden Island.

Cases not infectious while traveling. Investigation the state Department of Health made into the two active COVID-19 cases on Kaua‘i gives officials confidence neither was infectious during travel. Garden Island.

State Health Department director, corrections chief retire amid COVID-19 spike, Ige announces possible vetoes, police transparency bill approved, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Can Hawaii ‘Reset’ With New Public Safety And Health Directors? Gov. David Ige insists the abrupt departures of Bruce Anderson and Nolan Espinda were voluntary. Civil Beat.

Embattled health and public safety directors stepping down. Gov. David Ige announced on Aug. 31 that State Department of Health Director Bruce Anderson and Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda are retiring. KHON2.

State Health Director Bruce Anderson and Public Safety Department Director Nolan Espinda are leaving their posts. Hawaii’s top state health official, who has been widely criticized for his failure to keep COVID-19 infections under control, is leaving his post, along with the head of the state’s prison system, the scene of one of the largest outbreaks of the disease. Star-Advertiser.

State Health Director, Public Safety Director To Retire By End Of The Month. State Health Director Bruce Anderson and Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda will be retiring by the end of September. Both came under heavy criticism for what some saw as their inadequate response to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases statewide and in the prison system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Directors of Health, Public Safety to step down amid criticism of state’s COVID-19 response. In an extraordinary development Monday, the governor announced that his directors of Health and Public Safety would be stepping down as the state faces growing criticism of its handling of a COVID-19 surge and a huge outbreak at its largest jail. Hawaii News Now.

Two Hawaiʻi State Department Heads Stepping Down. Governor David Ige today announced the retirements of health director Dr. Bruce Anderson and public safety director Nolan Espinda in September.  Big Island Video News.

Anderson, Espinda retiring; Ige announces new appointments. Gov. David Ige announced Dept. of Health Director Dr. Bruce Anderson and Dept. of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda will retire in September. Garden Island.

Ige says he ’did not lose confidence’ in Health, Public Safety directors. Gov. David Ige stood by his embattled directors of Health and Public Safety on Monday, saying he accepts their decisions to retire but did not ask for their resignations. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s ‘2 Most Critical Weeks’: House Committee Seeks Strong State Action. A House special committee wants immediate attention to recommendations on efforts that need to happen soon to pull the state out of the coronavirus crisis. Civil Beat.

Lawmaker concerned crucial COVID-19 data is not tracked. House Speaker Scott Saiki worries that Health Department officials have not been cataloging specific data on COVID-19 infections that could help identify sources of the spread and lead to more targeted efforts to control the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: The State's Stranglehold On Important Data During the Pandemic is Unforgivable. Government officials should be releasing more precise facts on how and where the virus is spreading. Civil Beat.

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Gov. David Ige considering salvaging vetoed funds when new federal jobless benefits expire. After vetoing a plan to add $100 in additional weekly state unemployment benefits, Gov. David Ige said Monday that he would consider using the funds when a new round of $300 in weekly federal unemployment payments runs out. Star-Advertiser.

Ige May Veto Domestic Violence Measure, 5 Other Bills. The governor has until Sept. 15 to decide. Leaders in the Legislature will be meeting to discuss a potential override. Civil Beat.

Six bills on governor’s intent to veto list touch on various topics. On the intent to veto list includes bills that would provide funding for the Department of Education and Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

Police reform bill not on Ige’s ‘intent to veto’ list. Gov. David Ige on Monday said he will allow a bill that would identify suspended or fired county police officers to become law. West Hawaii Today.

Ige Addresses Leadership Changes, UI Benefits, And Vetoes. Big Island Now.

Governor Ige explains how Hawaii is spending federal CARES Act money. He said $463 million has already been allocated for rental assistance, homeowners, evictions, and businesses impacted by the pandemic. KITV4.

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Officials say Hawaii’s health care system is under great stress. Hawaii hospital officials said Monday that the state’s health care system has been able to handle the state’s COVID-19 surge so far by shifting personnel, recruiting new workers, modifying hospital spaces and working long hours. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii records 7 more COVID-19 fatalities, bringing statewide death toll to 70. At the start of August, the state’s coronavirus-related death toll stood at 26, but after four weeks of triple-digit increases in daily new cases, Hawaii is ending the month with a total of 70 fatalities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Reports Deadliest Day of Pandemic With 7 Coronavirus-Related Deaths. The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) reported seven new coronavirus-related deaths on Monday, in the grimmest day the state has seen since the pandemic began. Big Island Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 31: 7 Deaths And 133 New Cases In Hawaii. Health officials also reported 133 new COVID-19 cases, including 107 on Oahu, 24 on Hawaii island, and one on Maui. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Monday, August 31: 7 New Deaths Reported. Big Island Video News.

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Hawaiian Airlines issues furlough notices to pilots and flight attendants, signals more cuts ahead. Hawaii’s largest carrier, Hawaiian Airlines, announced on Monday more than a thousand job cuts as the coronavirus-related drop in travel demand and lockdowns continues to create economic woes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Elections 2020: General Election Ballot. There are races for Congress, the mayor’s offices on Oahu and the Big Island, seats in the Legislature and OHA. And there are dozens of charter amendment questions. Civil Beat.

A pared-down RIMPAC ends with missile muscle flexing. A trio of Harpoon antiship missiles slammed low into the hull of the former USS Durham in quick succession Sunday in a “sink exercise” that despite coronavirus impacts, wrapped up RIMPAC off Hawaii with a big bang. Star-Advertiser.

3 firework shells to illuminate evening sky above Pearl Harbor Tuesday night. At 7:45 p.m., three white chrysanthemum shells will be fired and illuminate the night sky. It’s taking place as a part of the commemoration ceremonies to mark the end of WWII. The shells were a gift from Honolulu’s Sister City of Nagaoka, Japan. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Counting city’s 1,776 botched surge COVID-19 tests against regulations, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says. The city asked the federal government for an exception, but some 1,776 people will have to retake the test due to a mislabeling error. Star-Advertiser.

Those impacted by botched surge tests will receive email. The city’s free COVID testing program suffered an embarrassing episode on Aug. 26, impacting about 1,000 tests taken at the Kaneohe District Park and Leeward Community College. KHON2.

Oahu Extends Free COVID-19 Testing After Program Gets Off To ‘Rocky’ Start. Officials now hope to test as many as 90,000 people in the next two weeks. Civil Beat.

Despite a rocky start, city’s surge testing program goal expands to 90,000 tests. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced that the federal government has agreed to expand testing from 60,000 people to 90,000. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu mayor confirms more than 1,700 surge tests were mislabeled. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell confirmed on Monday more than 1,700 COVID-19 surge tests have been mislabeled. KITV4.

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H-3 Freeway now closed in both directions for surge COVID-19 testing. Despite pending federal approval, the DOT says its moving ahead calling it an emergency situation. KHON2.

Planned COVID-19 surge testing will close H-3 freeway. The state plans to shut down the H-3 freeway in both directions to conduct free COVID-19 drive-thru surge testing, part of a two-week federally funded program aimed at testing up to 60,000 people. Star-Advertiser.

State to use both directions of H-3 Freeway for COVID-19 surge testing. State and city authorities will close H-3 Freeway this week to help facilitate surge COVID-19 testing efforts on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Settles Malicious Prosecution Case Involving Kaneshiro, Kealoha. The case involves the botched prosecution of several people suspected of running illegal game rooms. Civil Beat.

Agency says women harassed, threatened with eviction. The Hawai‘i State Department of Human Services Commission on the Status of Women is calling upon the state and City and County of Honolulu to launch a public information campaign aimed at preventing evictions, which are in violation of Gov. David Ige’s continuing COVID-19 emergency order. Star-Advertiser.

There's claims of pregnant women and immigrants as targets of eviction. Under the Governor's 12th emergency proclamation, the eviction moratorium is extended at least through the end of September. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Kim: Despite rise in cases, no lockdown needed. The state Department of Health reported 24 new coronavirus cases on the island Monday, bringing the county total to 364, but Kim said shutting down nonessential businesses — as the county did during the early days of the pandemic — would do more harm than good. Tribune-Herald.

Third resident of state veterans home in Hilo dies from COVID-19. A third resident of Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home has died from COVID-19, marking the Big Island’s third virus-related fatality. Tribune-Herald.

1 Man, 2 Women Arrested After Refusing to Wear Face Mask in Public. A man and two women were arrested in separate incidents over the weekend in North Kohala for refusing to wear a face-covering in public. Big Island Now.

County seeks to refinance $357M in bonds: Council set to vote Wednesday on paying off old bonds, floating new ones. Hawaii County plans to take advantage of low interest rates and its excellent bond rating to refinance up to $357 million in bonds. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui District Health Office Discusses Cluster at Lahaina Bar, Urges Continued Vigilance. Health officials on Maui have identified a cluster involving the convergence of people at a restaurant and bar in West Maui on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020. It is unclear where the source of the infection came from, but health officials are asking anyone who was at The Dirty Monkey on Aug. 22, to self quarantine for 14 days through Sept. 5, 2020. Maui Now.

Covid-19 Maui County Schedule Changes. The Maui News has compiled a list of countywide cancellations, closures and postponements due to coronavirus. Maui News.

8 recruits join the Maui police force. Maui Police Department 90th Recruit Class members, whose training was delayed while they helped with other duties during the COVID-19 pandemic, were honored in a graduation ceremony Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Morikawa calls for Polihale reopening. Following the sending of inquiry emails, and a letter to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, Rep. Dee Morikawa is hopeful that Polihale Beach Park will reopen to the public following the Labor Day weekend. Garden Island.

Fixing the water system in Moloa‘a Hui Lands. The Moloa‘a Irrigation Cooperative received a Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Grant from the county of $52,415 for water system improvements that will reduce the cost of water and leaks in the system. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai dealt huge economic blow with Four Seasons furloughs. A big hit to Hawaii’s only island yet to record a case of COVID-19 was felt Monday, as 752 workers were furloughed by Four Seasons Resorts on Lanai. KHON2.

Honolulu vial mislabeling sends 1,000 back for second COVID-19 test, $300 weekly unemployment bonus begins, health inspector fined for ethics violation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID-19 lab testing

About 1,000 Oahu residents told to retake COVID-19 surge test because of mislabeling. Just five days into a federally funded COVID-19 surge testing program on Oahu, about 1,000 people from the Kaneohe testing site have been told they have to retake the test due to a mislabeling error. Star-Advertiser.

Due To Mislabeling, About 1,000 Oahu Residents Told To Re-Test For COVID-19. The tests were part of the two-week federally funded testing surge. Civil Beat.

Due to mislabeling, about 1,000 Oahu residents told to re-test for COVID-19. In the latest coronavirus blunder, officials say about 1,000 people will need to get re-tested because vials weren’t labeled. Hawaii News Now.

About 1,000 surge tests labeled incorrectly, impacted individuals urged to retest. Some  of the tests from the Kaneohe site on Wednesday were not labeled correctly and those who are impacted are being urged to retest. KHON2.

1,000 people need to redo COVID-19 test due to labeling error. Another 500 vials were also incorrectly labeled, but staff managed to match the correct patient information to the vials. KITV4.

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A Frank Conversation With U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz About Hawaii’s ‘Terrible’ Virus Response Effort. Hawaii’s senior senator is extremely troubled by the Ige and Caldwell administrations’ failure to deal effectively with the coronavirus problem in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Contact tracing for the public: Voluntary contact tracing app would allow personal notification. Would a voluntary, free app that lets people know they were within 10-12 feet of someone who later tests positive for coronavirus help stem the rising tide of infections? Could crowd-sourcing — literally putting a tool into the hands of the public — be the solution that government alone can’t seem to reach? West Hawaii Today.

Travelers flying into Hawaii will be required to complete Safe Travels application. The Safe Travels application, starting Tuesday, will become the newest mandatory requirement for travelers flying into Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Feds fund unemployment bonus program. The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Sunday it has approved a $193,933,095 grant to Hawai‘i to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 with an additional $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. Garden Island.

More federal funding is heading to islands to help fulfill unemployment claims. Senator Brian Schatz announces Saturday that the state is getting nearly $200 million in funding from the Lost Wages Assistance Program, which is administered through FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA Approves Lost Wages Grant for Hawai‘i to Support $300 Per Week Unemployment Benefit. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Hawaiʻi to provide $300 per week, on top of their regular unemployment benefit, to those unemployed due to COVID-19. Maui Now.

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County Budgets Stable For Now, But Face Uncertain Future. Local governments in Hawaii have not yet faced the acute budget woes being felt at the state level. That may change if local businesses a forced to close. Hawaii Public Radio.

Auditor: DOE Should Be Releasing More Info About COVID-19 In Schools. The State Auditor also criticized Department of Education officials for not cooperating with its investigation. Civil Beat.

DOE reports 20 new COVID-19 cases. This week, 20 people associated with the state Department of Education has tested positive for COVID-19. The DOE's weekly web update says that includes nine employees, five students, four service providers and two parents contracted the virus. KITV4.

Hawaii’s hospitals are in urgent need of nurses to tackle a surge in COVID-19 cases. With an influx in hospitalizations in Hawaii due to the surge in COVID-19 cases, health care officials have put out an urgent call for more nurses to assist. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Health Inspector Fined $25,000 For Ethics Violation. A state worker admitted to mixing government work with his second job, the Hawaii State Ethics Commission said. Civil Beat.

DOH nurse consultant hit with $25,000 fine for ethics violation. The Hawaii State Ethics Commission fined Roel Salanga $25,000 dollars after they say he used his position for personal gain. Hawaii News Now.

Guess Who In Hawaii Is Donating To Trump And Biden? More than 600 Hawaii residents have contributed cash to the campaigns of the president and his opponent. Civil Beat.

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Bill opens up Hawai‘i to hemp industry. The signing of House Bill 1819 by Gov. David Ige legalizes the growth, processing and sale of industrial hemp in the state, and for Nalu Botanicals Lab, the first and only toll processing facility in the state, this bill opens up new opportunities and business by the ten-fold. Garden Island.

Pandemic renews calls for marijuana legalization in Hawaii. This week, Hawaii took a step forward in legalizing industrial hemp, something the agricultural committee says would be a big boost to the state's economy. KITV4.

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Will Hawaii’s $1.9 Billion Missile Radar System Get Built? Critics argue the costly system may already be obsolete and will needlessly threaten the environment and cultural sites. Civil Beat.

Wespac Reconsiders Rule That Keeps Longliners From Fishing Near Hawaii’s Shores. The zone was created nearly 30 years ago to ease conflicts with smaller boats that fish closer to shore. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric takes on threat of albizia trees. In 2019, Hawaiian Electric spent about $18.6 million on trimming or removing more than 360,000 trees across its five-island territory. Star-Advertiser.

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VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 30: 200 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. There are now more than 5,700 active cases identified in the islands. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports another coronavirus death on Oahu and 200 new cases statewide. Health officials today reported 174 new cases today on Oahu, 22 on Hawaii island, and four in Maui County. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidates log small campaign funding deficits. he top two vote getters in the race reported small deficits in the days leading up to the primary. Hawaii News Now.

Protesters gather in opposition of mayor’s latest stay-at-home order. In an act of defiance against the mayor’s latest stay-at-home order, a large group of people exercised their freedom of speech Saturday in a protest near the grounds of Honolulu Hale. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists Find Larger Fish, Clearer Water During Hanauma Bay Closure. Scientists anticipate the bay’s vacation from vacationers will bring a much-needed boost to its overall health. Civil Beat.

‘It’s as if a bomb went off:’ Waipahu’s illegal dumping problem worsens. Illegal dumping has been a problem in Waipahu for years. But local businesses and environmental activists say the problem has gotten worse during the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Outrage, not a meadow, grows in Royal Kunia subdivision. The condition and use of 132 acres at Royal Kunia once advertised as the spot for a planned golf course has been perturbing much of the roughly 2,000-home community over the past three years, including about 300 residents whose homes border the old golf course site. Star-Advertiser.

Reporter, weekend anchor Lisa Kubota bids aloha to Hawaii News Now. After 20 years in the broadcast journalism industry, Hawaii News Now’s Lisa Kubota is saying aloha to the world of television news. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island records its first 2 coronavirus deaths amid outbreak at Hilo veterans home. Hawaii island has had its first two coronavirus-related deaths following an outbreak at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. Star-Advertiser.

Two coronavirus-related deaths reported at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. Hawaii Island marked its first coronavirus-related deaths Sunday as the number of positive COVID-19 cases on the island climbed to 340. West Hawaii Today.

Two Deaths, 37 COVID-19 Cases Connected To Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home Outbreak. Six are hospitalized at Hilo Medical Center, and 19 are being cared for at the veterans home’s COVID designated area. Big Island Video News.

HMC Reports Two Coronavirus-Related Deaths. Hilo Medical Center reported two coronavirus-related deaths on Sunday afternoon, the first of which was also reported by Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Sunday morning. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island reports two COVID deaths as case numbers surpass Maui County. On Sunday, Hawaii County had more COVID-19 cases than Maui County. As of Sunday, there are 166 active cases on Hawaii Island. KHON2.

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Five arrested following gathering at Kahaluu. Five people were arrested for violating Gov. David Ige’s emergency proclamation after Hawaii Police Department officers were dispatched to a report of a more than 20 people gathering at Kahaluu Beach Park. West Hawaii Today.

Police Arrest 5 at Kahalu‘u Beach Park For Violation of COVID-19 Protocol. Hawai‘i County Police on Saturday arrested five individuals for violating COVID-19 protocols as part of a gathering at Kahalu‘u Beach Park in West Hawai‘i. Big Island Now.

5 arrested, charged on the Big Island for COVID violations. Not everyone complied and police arrested five people: 53-year-old Gene Tamashiro of Hilo, 48-year-old Stefanie Nolff of Keaau, 65-year-old Diane Ficher of Kailua-Kona, 60-year-old Melody Harris of Kailua-Kona and 53-year-old Michaele Ann Medearis of Holualoa. KHON2.

Maui

More than 5,000 limited quarantine requests. County grants ‘vast majority’ of requests so people can continue to work As of Friday, Maui County officials had received well over 5,000 requests from travelers for a limited quarantine when arriving in the county following interisland travel. Maui News.

Reality series ‘Temptation Island’ to begin filming again on Maui. Maui filming of the reality series “Temptation Island” is back on again after obtaining authorization from Mayor Michael Victorino following a review of the production company’s health security plan and testing protocols. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor green lights reality TV show. ‘Temptation Island’ filming at Andaz allowed beginning Sept. 8. Maui News.

Kauai

Money helps fund Makauwahi Cave Reserve expansion efforts. For the Makauwahi Cave Reserve, nestled on the south coast of Kaua‘i in the Mahaulepu Valley close to Mahaulepu Beach, change has always been constant, even in the pre-COVID era. Garden Island.

Kauai Businesses Are ‘Hanging On By A Thread’ Without Tourists. The alarming number of businesses facing closure in the next six months should be a warning sign to state leaders, says the head of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce. Civil Beat.

Native seabird chicks eaten by single cat. Over the course of three days in a remote area of the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, one cat (photographed on multiple trail cameras) killed at least nine endangered Hawaiian Petrel (‘u‘au) chicks. Garden Island.

Hawaii rethinking reopening to tourists, Health Department to shut down noncomplying restaurants, shipper Young Brothers seeks 47% rate increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii dawn ©2020 All Hawaii News

County Mayors To Ige: We’re Not Ready To Welcome Back Tourists. With new surges of COVID-19 cases in key states and a sudden disruption in Hawaii’s testing capacity, Hawaii’s county mayors want the state to rethink its planned Aug. 1 tourism reopening date. Civil Beat.

As COVID-19 infections surge on mainland, mayor casts doubt on plan to reopen tourism. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell cast doubt Thursday on the feasibility of the state’s plan to reopen tourism Aug. 1, saying he no longer thinks allowing visitors to avoid quarantine starting next month if they test negative for COVID-19 is safe for everyone. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the decision to reopen Hawaii tourism may be pushed back. Caldwell said it’s an agonizingly painful balancing act of public health and safety and economic viability and survival, and he is unsure of the best course. Star-Advertiser.

Kim says he cannot support Ige’s plan for trans-Pacific visitors. Mayor Harry Kim said Thursday that he will not support a plan by Gov. David Ige to loosen out-of-state travel restrictions on Aug. 1 without significant improvements. Tribune-Herald.

Reservations about reopening. Gov. David Ige and Hawai‘i’s four county mayors met Thursday for the third time this week to try to address the increasingly urgent question of whether the state can safely reopen to tourists on Aug. 1. Garden Island.

State and County Leaders Evaluate Timing of Hawai‘i’s August 1 Pre-Test Program Rollout. Two weeks ago, the state announced plans to start a pre-travel COVID-19 testing program on Aug. 1, 2020.  Maui Now.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard says state should delay lifting mandatory quarantine. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard made it clear on Thursday that she wants the state to delay lifting the 14-day quarantine for travelers. KITV4.

Shortage of COVID-19 tests nationally throws cold water on Hawaii’s tourism reopening plan. The program is still set to begin Aug. 1, and would allow incoming travelers to avoid the state’s mandatory 14-day quarantine if they test negative for coronavirus no more than 72 hours before they land. Hawaii News Now.

COVID-19 test supply could affect reopening of trans-Pacific travel. Hawaii’s influx in COVID-19 cases has state and county lawmakers reconsidering plans to move forward with a pre-travel testing program set for August. KHON2.

Mainland supplier of coronavirus testing equipment says it reduced, but not cut off, supplies to Hawaii lab. The mainland supplier of one of Hawaii’s largest COVID-19 testing laboratories said today that it has not cut off the supplies of chemicals needed to continue to run tests locally, but has temporarily reduced the volume of test kits due to a surge in coronavirus cases across the country. Star-Advertiser.

"We need more testing immediately" Hawaii doctor cautions against testing complacency. The Hawaii Department of Health reports the state's capacity is 2,400 tests per day. KITV4.

How postponing lifting travel restrictions could affect workers in the tourism industry. The governor and the mayors met for the second day to discuss plans to lift the quarantine on August 1. KHON2.

Frustrated Hawaii businesses feel a further delay could result in “economic catastrophe”. Hawaii residents and businesses are worried they won’t survive a delay in the planned reopening of tourism on Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii Health Department to shut down restaurants and bars flouting coronavirus precautions. The Department of Health Food Safety Branch will issue red placards temporarily suspending the operations of restaurants, bars and other eateries that do not comply with rules that include physical distancing and the wearing of masks. Under state law, health inspectors can temporarily close food establishments that pose a danger to public health. Star-Advertiser.

Health Dept Cracks Down On COVID Safety In Restaurants. The Health Department is handing out color-coded placards to help the public identify which restaurants are in compliance with guidelines. Civil Beat.

DOH, county work to enforce virus mitigation rules. The state Department of Health will take a tougher stance against restaurants not following COVID-19 mitigation policies as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise throughout the state. Tribune-Herald.

DOH Will Temporarily Close Restaurants, Bars Not Complying With Social Distancing. The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) is taking new steps to ensure rood establishments implement appropriate social distancing guidance. Big Island Now.

DOH to issue color-coded placards. Restaurants could be shut down by the state if they don’t enforce social distancing or other pandemic guidelines, and the Hawaii Health Department issued a press release Thursday reminding food establishments of the “serious consequences” should they fail to follow the emergency rules. Garden Island.

Health Dept. to Issue Red Placards to Restaurants and Bars that Violate COVID-19 Mandates. The Hawai‘i Department of Health today announced it will begin issuing red placards to restaurants and bars that violate physical distancing and other mandates to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Maui Now.

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Gun control bills hang in the balance as lawmakers wrap up the legislative session. Some key bills hang in the balance today as lawmakers try to wrap up this year’s unprecedented three-part legislative session where much of the work was done inside a locked state Capitol that was closed to the public because of the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Senate Bills Relating to Firearm Registration and Ag Buildings Pass Final Reading. The Hawai‘i State Senate passed final reading SB3054 SD2 HD1 and SB2701 HD2 relating to firearm registration and agricultural buildings, respectively. Maui Now.

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Lawmakers debate testing for nursing homes. State lawmakers held an informational briefing Thursday to discuss how COVID-19 outbreaks such as the ones that occurred at the state’s largest nursing home last month and at smaller care homes can be prevented. Star-Advertiser.

Plans For Increasing COVID-19 Testing At Care Homes On Hold. A shortage of testing supplies at private labs is forcing the state department of health to shift gears and be more strategic in its testing plan, health officials said. Civil Beat.

Legislative members, healthcare workers on preventing the spread of COVID in nursing homes. House committee members met Thursday, July 9, with health officials and health care workers to discuss how to prevent COVID-19 from spreading in nursing homes. KHON2.

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Bill would make Rep. Takayama eligible to run for Sen. Harimoto’s seat. Twelve days after the death of state Sen. Breene Harimoto, the House Judiciary Committee proposed a change in state election law that would make committee member Rep. Gregg Taka­yama eligible to run to serve out the last two years of Harimoto’s term. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige appoints Bennette Misalucha to the late Breene Harimoto’s Hawaii Senate seat. Gov. David Ige has appointed Bennette Misalucha to fill the late Sen. Breene Harimoto’s state Senate seat until the general election, according to a statement today from the governor’s office. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Appoints Bennette Misalucha To State Senate. The former lobbyist replaces Breene Harimoto, who died last month. Civil Beat.

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Young Bros. seeks 47% emergency rate increase. Without a financial lifeline from the state, Young Brothers has requested regulators approve an emergency or temporary rate increase of nearly 47% — or $30.4 million — to sustain interisland cargo services through year’s end. West Hawaii Today.

Young Brothers seeks emergency increase in rates. Young Brothers LLC, which has been seeking a $25 million bailout from the state to avoid insolvency, has ratcheted up its plea for aid by filing a motion with the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission for an emergency rate increase that would boost the company’s revenue by about $30 million and keep its interisland cargo transport services afloat. Star-Advertiser.

Young Bros. Requests Rate Increase. Young Brothers, LLC made an emergency request of the Hawai‘i Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Tuesday asking for a temporary rate increase for the remainder of 2020. Big Island Now.

Young Brothers asks for temporary rate increase. The company made an emergency request to the Public Utilities Commission. KHON2.

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Public schools identify which teaching models they’ll use come fall. The state Department of Education has released new details on what the upcoming school year will look like at individual campuses, but some concerns are being raised. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii schools select learning models, but teachers union raises concerns. The Board of Education heard from concerned teachers and parents on Thursday, July 9, about the state’s plans to reopen schools. KHON2.

Hawaii school board members hear thousands “speak with one voice”. More than 2,000 people flooded the Board of Education with written testimony Thursday, most pleading to keep students 6 feet apart and require they wear masks when they return to school next month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii debates how close kids can get after school reopening. Hawaii public schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto drew opposition when she said children’s desks could be as close as 3 feet (0.91 meters) if facing forward. KITV4.

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Hawaii records 36 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 1,130. Hawaii health officials added 36 new confirmed coronavirus cases today to the statewide total number of infections, which now stands at 1,130 since the start of the outbreak in February. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Updates: 36 New Cases; Survey: 40% Unable To Pay June Rent; Arrivals Exceed 700. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii COVID-19 Updates For Thursday, July 9th: 36 New Cases. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Senate bill paving way for new Aloha Stadium dies in Hawaii Legislature. A bill crucial to the progress of the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District suffered an 11th-hour death at the state Legislature, which is sure to delay the project for at least a year and drive up already-escalating costs, lawmakers said today. Star-Advertiser.

‘Monumental error’ could delay Aloha Stadium redevelopment another year. After years of debate and planning, the Aloha Stadium redevelopment might be delayed another year. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii Prison Oversight Commission: ‘Maybe We’ve Been Forgotten’. Commissioners say the state is stalling the hiring process of a director, while pushing forward to pursue a public-private partnership for a new Oahu jail complex. Civil Beat.

Multiple COVID-19 cases connected to Hawaii State Hospital temporarily halt construction at site. Health officials say there are now nine COVID-19 cases related to the Hawaii State Hospital and some of those cases temporarily halted construction at the Kaneohe campus. Hawaii News Now.

Keith Amemiya: Political Outsider Or Establishment Insider?. Despite deep political ties to numerous state and local officials, Keith Amemiya says he has the fresh perspective that Honolulu needs in the mayor’s office. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Prosecutor Candidate RJ Brown: 'Better Days Are Ahead For The Office'. Honolulu's prosecutor's office has been operating under a cloud since a federal probe targeted Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro as part of a corruption scandal that ensnared former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and her husband, retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

PUC dismisses power purchase agreement between Honua Ola, Hawaiian Electric. The state Public Utilities Commission on Thursday dismissed an amended power purchase agreement between Hawaiian Electric Co. and Honua Ola, formerly known as Hu Honua. Tribune-Herald.

Hu Honua bioenergy project fails to get PUC approval. The state Public Utilities Commission has rejected a request from Hawaii Electric Light Co., the Big Island power company, to waive competitive bidding on the long-stalled and nearly completed $350 million Hu Honua Biomass Project. Star-Advertiser.

Hu Honua Bioenergy Project Fails To Get Needed Approvals. The Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission has dealt another regulatory blow to the planned bioenergy project on the Hāmākua coast. Big Island Video News.

Utilities commission rejects Hu Honua’s deal to provide energy for HECO. The state Public Utilities Commission rejected a proposal by Hu Honua Bioenergy on Thursday to provide electricity to Hawaiian Electric Co. in a move the company says will lead to the loss of more than 200 jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Home, sweet home: Prosecutors move into new digs in Kona. The West Hawaii Civic Center welcomed the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney to its campus this week as the long-awaited building was finally ready for occupancy. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Agreement reached on Pi‘ilani Promenade. LUC OKs plan that returns to original concept, nixes ‘megamall’. Maui News.

Community input is being sought for an upcoming solar project on Maui. Developers are holding a virtual open house Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. on the proposed plan in Kihei. Hawaii News Now.

Input Sought on Creating Safer Maui Roads. The public is invited to attend Vision Zero Maui’s Virtual Town Hall on Thursday, July 23, 2020 at 4 p.m. to learn about Maui roadway safety concerns and priorities in developing an action plan to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries. Maui Now.

Person treated for COVID-19 visits DMVL office. Individual not a risk but Kihei site closed for cleaning. Maui News.

Kauai

Anti-Styrofoam bill amended. A bill first introduced in February that would restrict the use and sale of styrofoam foodservice containers is being amended and pushed off due to economic uncertainty sparked by the coronavirus pandemic. Garden Island.

Council debriefed on climate change. Former Mayor Bernard Carvalho had a 10-year county-wide goal of reducing emissions from county government operations by 30% by 2023. Garden Island.

Trump signs disaster declaration for Kauai storm damage. President Donald Trump today signed a disaster declaration for Kauai in connection with the heavy rain and flooding that occurred on March 27 and 28, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced. Star-Advertiser.