FAA ends flight cutbacks, Hawaii SNAP payments resume in full, Honolulu AI police surveillance worries advocates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

FAA to end cuts to flights at 40 airports, including Honolulu. The FAA says it is ending all commercial flight restrictions that were put in place during the federal government shutdown. Starting Monday, Nov. 17, at 1 a.m. HST, airlines will be able to go back to their regular schedules. KHON2. Reuters. Associated Press.

Hawaii working on restoring SNAP benefits after shutdown. The state Department of Human Services said it successfully issued full November SNAP benefits Nov. 7 to more than 78,000 households representing over 160,000 people statewide. Star-Advertiser.

From Fundraisers To Favors, Ethics Panel Wants To Crack Down On State Workers. New reform measures would prohibit high level state officials from holding fundraisers and stop state employees from doing favors for former employers. Civil Beat.

Travel firms urge increase in marketing as visitor numbers slip. A total of 690,858 visitors came to Hawaii in September, down 2.5% from September 2024, according to state data. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii ranks second highest in the country for women in construction. Construction Coverage, which researches construction software, insurance and related services for builders and real estate professionals, looked at all 50 states in its “Best-Paying States for Women in Construction” report that found that women make up 13.2% of Hawaii’s construction industry. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Job Corps survives federal shutdown attempt. The operator of the Job Corps centers on Oahu and Maui wants the public to know that the facilities didn’t close at the end of June as directed by the U.S. Department of Labor. Star-Advertiser.

Campaign to ID unknowns from USS Arizona reaches milestone. A civilian-led effort called Operation 85 has reached its goal of collecting enough DNA samples from the living relatives of the battleship’s crew to prompt the Defense Department to consider reexamining dozens of unidentified servicemen who were buried in Hawaii after the Pearl Harbor attack. Arizona Daily Star.

Oahu

Advocates Fear ‘Surveillance Creep’ If HPD Starts Using AI To Write Reports. Honolulu police will start testing an AI program for writing reports run by body camera company Axon on Monday. Civil Beat.

Justice Department: Well-Known Hawaiian Defense Contractor Embezzled Funds. Newly public court documents accuse Christopher Dawson and other executives not only of stealing from their federal contracting business but shortchanging Native Hawaiians in the process. Civil Beat.

Centre Urban project would create 72 Waikiki workforce housing units. Centre Urban Real Estate is advancing plans to transform two Waikiki sites, including the long-­derelict 1615 Ala Wai Blvd., into 72 affordable workforce housing units under city guidelines. Star-Advertiser.

Anxious Honolulu bus riders await contract resolution. After months of stalled negotiations and warnings of a possible strike, the approximately 130,000 daily riders of Honolulu’s TheBus have been left in limbo, hoping for a resolution to the contract stand-off. Star-Advertiser.

Strike continues at Kapi‘olani Medical Center. Hundreds of union workers continued their strike Saturday in front of the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women &Children, marking four weeks since walking off the job Oct. 17. Star-Advertiser.

This Hawaiian Fishpond Is Nearly Restored. All That’s Missing Is Fresh Water. The Heʻeia Fishpond relies on fresh water to create the right conditions to raise fish for the community, but the stream that feeds into it was diverted 85 years ago.  Civil Beat.

Housekeeper sues Hilton Hawaiian Village, alleges co-worker sexually assaulted her. A housekeeper at Hilton Hawaiian Village filed a lawsuit against the hotel, alleging a colleague sexually assaulted her, and arguing her employer should have done more to protect her. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Construction of Hilo roundabout to start in ’27. The intersection of Bayfront Highway, Kamehameha Avenue and Waianuenue Avenue in Hilo is set for a $22 million redesign that includes a roundabout, with construction expected to begin in 2027. Tribune-Herald.

Bill aims to give kupuna farmers property tax relief. Two Hawaii County Council members are proposing a measure that would give longtime kupuna farmers a break on property tax increases after they retire from agricultural work. Tribune-Herald.

Land use debate heats up over controversial ‘Burning Man-inspired’ festival in Pāpaʻikou. On a 15-acre portion of his land in Pāpaʻikou near Hilo, Pennsylvania native Andrew Tepper held a controversial festival in 2023 and 2024 called “Falls on Fire,” an event with a large wooden effigy inspired by the annual weeklong, large-scale Burning Man held in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada. Big Island Now.

Ka‘u student group seeks to minimize waste through composting, recycling. A student-led zero-waste initiative in Ka‘u has kept more than 20,000 pounds of waste out of the West Hawaii landfill since the 2024 start of their grant-supported efforts in trash separation, recycling and composting. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Report projects post-shutdown OGG travel surge with TSA data. Kahului International Airport (OGG) is expected to see one of the nation’s steepest surges in passenger traffic this holiday season, according to a new analysis of Transportation Security Administration data by Luxury Link.  Maui Now.

Who uses the most water in Lahaina? A new report says non-owner-occupied homes. Single-family dwelling was the biggest category of water use in West Maui by meter type, at approximately 5.5 million gallons per day, with hotels coming in second at about 3.5 million. Hawaii Public Radio.

Japan’s richest person loves Kapalua, but not its water crisis. The owner of the course, Japanese billionaire Tadashi Yanai, has been eagerly pursuing avenues to secure a new adequate supply of irrigation water. Star-Advertiser. Maui News. 

Nation’s first communal dialysis home in Hāna needs repairs to keep operating at full capacity. Maui County, which owns the home and leases it to the nonprofit Hui Laulima O Hāna led by Cosma, plans to provide funding to help with the repairs.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua’i Council advances measure targeting disposable bodyboards. The Kaua‘i County Council is considering a proposal to ban disposable bodyboards in an effort to reduce plastic waste and protect the island’s beaches and marine life. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i County comes together to observe National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.  Kaua‘i County Housing Agency on Nov. 10 joined community members and county officials during a special ceremony in the Mo‘ikeha Rotunda at Līhu‘e Civic Center to proclaim this week, Nov. 16-22, as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. Kauai Now.

Hawaii readies nation's first climate impact fee on tourists, Kaiser Permanente workers vote to strike, inaugural high school surfing championships coming this spring, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Conference showcases nexus between green fees, tourism. Members of the Green Fee Advisory Council updated Hawaii’s visitor industry Monday on the process that they are using to ensure that the nation’s first-ever climate impact fee strengthens Hawaii’s environment, builds resilience and enhances the visitor experience. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi is getting less rainfall than in the past. Is that shift permanent? Overall, last month was the driest August for Hawaiʻi since at least 1991. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaiser Hawaii workers vote to authorize a strike. The vote signals the possibility that thousands of health care workers, including hospital aides, medical assistants, nurses, and lab technicians, among others, could walk off the job if no agreement is reached by the end of month, when contracts expire. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4. 

Ruling opens door for challenges to HMSA prior authorization decision. The Hawaii Supreme Court has cleared the way for customers of the state’s largest health insurance company to sue over coverage denials that they believe harmed them or their families.  Hawaii News Now.

Here’s Where Hawaiʻi School Enrollment Is Dropping Fastest. The state is looking at redistricting schools and closing campuses amid an ongoing decline in enrollment. Civil Beat.

Surfing State Championships Coming To Hawaiʻi Schools This Spring. Surfing has been a high school sport since 2004, but a lack of funding and state support has kept many schools from starting their own competitive teams. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.  Big Island Now. 

Coral in Hawaiʻi waters officially named after furry 'Star Wars' lookalike. A species of deep-sea coral has been named after the beloved "Star Wars" character Chewbacca. Its long shape makes it look like it’s standing upright, and its extended, flexible branches resemble the famous character’s fur. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Alleged discrepancies in HFD fund under Council discussion. The City Council’s Budget Committee is set today to discuss an audit that showed that a Honolulu Fire Department fund to support fire prevention efforts islandwide was instead allegedly used to finance the department’s operations, staffing and new fire equipment purchases with little to no oversight. Star-Advertiser.

Red Hill whistleblower describes ‘cover-up’ during May 2021 fuel leak. A whistleblower turned over a mountain of evidence years ago, which includes never-seen-before photos of the initial spill. Hawaii News Now.

Invasive Beetles Are Overrunning Oʻahu. Could New Methods Offer Relief? The agriculture department has been focusing on coconut rhinoceros beetles on other Hawaiian islands, leaving Oʻahu largely to fend for itself. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Salary Commission to discuss raises for top officials, County Council. The Salary Commission is proposing to mirror Hawaii Government Employees Association alary increases for executives and elected officials for the next four years: 3.5% increase for year one; 3.79% increase for year two, 4% increase for year three, and 4% increase for year four. Tribune-Herald.

Council OK’s effort to acquire Honolulu Landing property. The Hawaii County Council has given full approval to a resolution urging the Department of Finance to move ahead with acquiring 364 acres of culturally and environmentally significant coastline in Puna known as Honolulu Landing. Tribune-Herald.

Hakalau Bridge Project Begins September 24. Work to rehabilitate the bridge will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Balances Compassion With Fire Safety In Homeless Encampment Sweeps. County leaders say they are prioritizing the community as a whole but critics feel it’s scapegoating. Civil Beat.

With debris transfer nearing completion, attention turns to future of site. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates some 400,000 to 500,000 tons of debris will be moved from the temporary disposal site at Olowalu to the permanent location at Puunene next to the Central Maui Landfill. Maui News.

Maui to host first-ever Hawaii high school surfing championship May 1-2. After almost three decades of work to bring surfing into the mainstream of high school sports on Maui, the first Hawaii High School Athletic Association surfing state championship will be decided on the Valley Isle. Maui News. Maui Now. 

Kauai

Coordinated Hunt in Kauaʻi’s Kalalau Valley reduces feral animal population. Kalalau Valley has long struggled with populations of feral pigs and goats, which damage native plants, cause erosion, and create public health and safety concerns for campers and hikers. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. 

New visa fee could further crimp tourism, restauranteurs eye coming $16 minimum wage, study disputes usefulness of genki balls, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii tourism officials worry about new visa fee starting Oct. 1. The new fee is aimed at deterring visitors from overstaying their visas, and potentially will generate billions in revenue for immigration services. But state tourism leaders like Keith Vieira worry it will slow down our economic recovery even more. KITV4. 

Hawaii restaurants struggling as 2026 minimum wage hike approaches. Owners said the raise in minimum wage to $16 at the start of 2026 means customers might see some changes. KHON2.

Hawaiʻi Loves ‘Genki Balls’ To Clean Water. New Studies Say They Don’t Work. A new two-year research project found the balls not only were ineffective, they might make water quality worse. Supporters of the effort don’t believe it. Civil Beat.

Trump’s Reversal Of EV Policies Will Affect The Road To Clean Electricity. Hitting the brakes on electric vehicles will mean less progress in reducing transportation emissions and less strategic U.S. leadership in a key technology. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi works to restore solar program for low-income households. Hawaiʻi was awarded about $62 million from the U.S Environmental Protection Agency through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act for the Solar for All program. But in August, the HGIA received a termination letter of the grant from the EPA. Hawaii Public Radio.

Weakened Kiko produces possible dangerous rip currents and high surf. Swells that were generated by Kiko are gradually building from east to west across waters around the islands. This surf is forecast to peak tonight through Wednesday with the potential to produce dangerous surf and rip currents. KITV4.

Oahu

Homeless camps, crime prompted Kailua Beach Park nightly closures. Illegal homeless encampments, vandalism and reports of violent threats to visitors and nearby residents at Kailua Beach Park led to the three-month pilot program that began Friday, imposing nighttime closure hours from midnight to 4 a.m. at the city-owned park, Honolulu officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu clears Piʻikoi Street homeless encampment in early morning operation. Honolulu city crews and police cleared a homeless encampment along Piʻikoi Street early Tuesday morning, removing tents, shopping carts and other personal items from the sidewalks. KITV4.

Honolulu Immigrant Tracked Via Money Transfers Sentenced, Turned Over To ICE. The Mexican citizen had pleaded guilty and was convicted of illegally reentering the United States. Civil Beat.

2 Navy workers face October trial over Red Hill fuel spill. Two U.S. Navy civilian employees accused by federal prosecutors of doctoring documents and lying to cover up the severity of a May 6, 2021, jet fuel spill at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility are scheduled to stand trial next month. Star-Advertiser.

HPD makes step to be more transparent to the public. The Honolulu Police Department has introduced a new online page for its Public Affairs Office.  KHON2.

Oʻahu schools recognized for student success beyond academics. This year, Moanalua, Kaimuki, and Āliamanu middle schools were all recognized by the Association for Middle Level Education, putting them among 24 schools across the country that were given this title for 2025. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Blue Hawaiian’s request to fly lower generates blowback. Big Island locations where Blue Hawaiian is requesting permission to fly as low as 700 feet above ground include: Waikoloa Heliport to Kilauea summit; Kulani Cone to Eucalyptus Tree area; Makuu Point to Kilauea’s Pu‘u ‘O‘o vent; Hilo International Airport, shoreline to Cape Kumukahi, shoreline to Kalapana to Pu‘u ‘O‘o vent; Hilo International Airport, shoreline to Pololu Valley; Waimanu Valley to Waimea; and Honokane Nui or Pololu Valley to either Water Tank or Riders areas. Tribune-Herald.

County moves forward with Four Mile Creek Bridge replacement. The County of Hawaii Department of Public Works is moving forward with plans to replace the aging Four Mile Creek Bridge in Hilo, aiming to improve traffic flow, safety and pedestrian access along Kilauea Avenue and Haihai Street. Tribune-Herald.

Councilwoman Kierkiewicz invites community to presentation on revitalizing downtown Pahoa. The Office of Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz is inviting the community to attend a presentation on new draft legislation aimed at creating economic opportunities and revitalizing Downtown Pahoa. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Hawaii police officer whose K-9 died now on regular patrol, under criminal investigation. Police dog Archer, a drug sniffing K-9, reportedly died after being left in a squad car for an “unacceptable period of time.” Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Residential project leases coming to more than 1,100 DHHL beneficiaries on Maui. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands conducted an orientation Saturday for beneficiaries on the Maui residential waitlist interested in the upcoming award of more than 1,100 residential project leases on the Valley Isle. Maui Now.

New Maui recycling facility seeks to keep green waste out of the landfill and make it usable. A new green waste recycling facility is now open on Maui. Hawai’i Organics Compost in Waikapū is the largest operation of its kind on the island. Hawaii Public Radio.

21st annual Lahaina Town Cleanup returns Sept. 27. In an effort to preserve Maui’s coastline and unite the community for a cleaner coastline, volunteers including students, families, divers, community members and guests have gathered for the Lahaina Town Cleanup for more than 20 years. Maui News.

Senate Ways and Means Committee visits Lānaʻi for updates on local sustainability. The Senate Ways and Means Committee arrived on Lānaʻi to receive updates on economic development and sustainability efforts from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and the Agribusiness Development Corporation. Maui Now.

Kauai

Researchers rediscover 2 native Hawaiian land snails on Kaua‘i last seen nearly a century ago. Researchers from Bishop Museum, along with partners from the Kauaʻi Forest Bird Recovery Project, found live specimens of Godwinia caperata (described in 1852) and Hiona exaequata (described in 1846) on Kauaʻi during recent biodiversity surveys. Kauai Now.

Live mongoose found and captured on Kauaʻi. A live mongoose has been captured on Kauaʻi, where the invasive species does not have an established population. Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi sets new standard with wildfire mitigation ordinance. On Sept. 8, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami signed into law Bill 2961, an ordinance passed unanimously by the Kauaʻi County Council to advance wildfire mitigation in West Kauaʻi’s plantation camp districts. Kauai Now.

Cruise ship industry sues over visitor green fee, state legislators call for special session on immigration enforcement, state working to improve tsunami protocols, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cruise Ship Industry Sues To Scuttle Hawaiʻi’s New Visitor Green Fee. Ship passengers will soon to start paying the same visitor tax as hotel guests to help cover the conservation fee — unless the cruise lines can stop it in court. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi legislators call for a special session to address immigration enforcement. Senate and House leadership have not released any information about a special session. But it did block off several dates throughout the year if needed. One was this week. The next is at the end of September, and the third is in mid-November. Hawaii Public Radio.

New HTA advisory board under pressure to regain public trust. The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority advisory board — composed of eight new members and four returning ones — met Thursday with the hope of achieving a paradigm shift that proves its trustworthiness to manage state tourism and the tens of millions of dollars of public money that funds it. Star-Advertiser. KITV4. 

State working to improve tsunami reaction protocol. Deficiencies in managing the tsunami threat to Hawaii last month are leading to planned improvements that include manual traffic intersection management, fewer broken warning sirens and safety information websites that don’t crash under high demand. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. 

Electrifying vehicles is key to the Hawaiʻi DOT's climate roadmap. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is finalizing a climate roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. About half of the state's total emissions come from the transportation sector. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi-grown foods like ʻulu and kalo are on the menu at public schools. The state Department of Education has updated its school breakfast and lunch menus to offer more locally sourced foods such as ʻulu, kalo, ʻuala, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Aloha Stadium teardown expected to take 12 months. The Aloha Stadium Authority has secured the necessary permits from the City and County of Honolulu to start work on dismantling the old stadium in Halawa, but the stadium board chair said it will likely be “early in the new year” before the public starts to notice large pieces of the old facility being torn down. Star-Advertiser.

Next phase of Hawaiian homestead houses in Kapolei awarded. More than 100 state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries are set to become homeowners in Kapolei early next year after a lottery Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Law to streamline affordable housing leads to power struggle over Kapolei project. The Laulima Affordables rental project just west of the Kapolei Commons shopping center is caught in the middle of the dispute. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu road deaths in 2025 now surpass all of 2024. The City is pleading with the public to be safer on Honolulu roads — they say 55 people have died so far on Oahu, surpassing 2024’s total of 54. KHON2.

Why HPD Has A Major Morale Problem, According To Staff. Officers and civilians want to make sure their voices are heard throughout the selection process for a new chief. Civil Beat.

Man who received $12.5M city settlement sentenced on gun, drug offenses. Just a year and a half after receiving a multimillion-dollar payment from the city, Jonaven Perkins-Sinapati will spend 10 years in federal prison. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Residents push back on Puna Geothermal Venture during upgrade project. The company’s Repower Project has equipment upgrades and increased power generation. It has 12 generating units that are more than 30 years old, and the plan is to install three larger generating units and decommission the old ones. Hawaii News Now.

County to proceed with plans for old Hilo hospital site. The project, located at 34 Rainbow Drive in Hilo, is a key part of the county Office of Housing and Community Development’s effort to create a resource hub focused on housing stabilization, workforce readiness and behavioral health services. Tribune-Herald.

Convent repurposed into housing for homeless kupuna. Ten elders without housing are expected to move into the bright and airy single-story North Hawaii home in October, according to representatives of HOPE Services Hawaii and their partner for the housing project, Honoka‘a’s historic Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. 

Hawaiʻi County, HALE O Hawaiʻi partner to deliver affordable homeownership. The handover ceremony and celebration Aug. 22 marked a milestone in a partnership between HALE O Hawaiʻi Community Land Trust and Hawaiʻi County Office of Housing and Community Development, advancing an innovative land trust model to keep homes affordable for generations to come. Big Island Now.

Puna Beach Park To Close For Pohoiki Boat Ramp Dredging. Isaac Hale Beach Park will be closed until further notice starting September 2 to support public safety efforts during crane dredging operations. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Police: Multiple people injured in Kalapana affray. Police are investigating an affray Sunday evening in Kalapana that resulted in multiple stabbings. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. 

Maui

Procession and memorial service to honor Officer Suzanne O. The Maui Police Department, in partnership with the family of Officer Suzanne O, will hold a procession and memorial service honoring her life and service on Friday, Aug. 29. Maui News. Maui Now.

South Maui beach parking zones get Maui Council nod; first priority for residents. Maui County Council members unanimously gave initial approval Tuesday to a measure that would establish paid parking zones at South Maui beach parks, a move to give residents first priority access to some of the island’s most popular beaches. Maui Now.

Maui DWS to use backup water for Upcountry system starting in early September. County to supplement Upcountry water supply due to drought conditions. In September, the Maui County Department of Water Supply is planning to supplement water delivery to the Upcountry area, which has been plagued by ongoing drought conditions. Maui News. Maui Now. 

Lahaina fire survivor is arrested by ICE. A Lahaina man who lost his home and business in the fatal Lahaina wildfires was arrested by federal agents on the two-year anniversary of the disaster for an alleged violation of U.S. immigration law. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kauaʻi lawmakers consider regulations on e-bikes. The Kauaʻi County Council’s Bill 2972 would require minors to wear helmets while using e-bikes, or electric bicycles. It would also effectively ban bike tricks like wheelies, along with riding in a “hazardous manner” — such as driving with more than one person. Hawaii Public Radio.

Total visitor arrivals, spending in July increases in Kauaʻi, decreases statewide. There were 143,289 visitors to Kauaʻi in July 2025, an increase of 5.6% from the 135,740 visitors in July 2024 and a 3% increase from the 139,157 visitors in July 2019. Kauai Now.

Sunday road closures for Kauai Marathons. The 2025 Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025, starting at 6:00 a.m. The racecourse will impact Koloa, Poipu, Lawai, and Kalaheo, with a combination of lane closures, full road closures, and partial restrictions between 5 a.m. and 2 p.m.  Garden Island. Kauai Now. 

Green signs bills protecting child actors, changing tourism management; Hilo trio found guilty in $11M housing credit scam, former UCLA administrator tapped for UH athletic director, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Earnings of child actors protected by Hawaii law. Gov. Josh Green signed House Bill 874 into law Wednesday alongside Maia Kealoha, the 8-year-old actor playing “Lilo” in Disney’s live-action remake of “Lilo and Stitch”, who joined him at the ceremony. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Gov. Josh Green signs bill changing tourism management. Senate Bill 1571 makes the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority Board of Directors an advisory board again, no longer a policy-making board, following criticism about governance and oversight. Hawaii Public Radio.

What happens if Hawaiʻi falls short of its goal to reduce carbon emissions?  Hawaiʻi has until 2030 to slash greenhouse gas emissions in half compared to 2005 levels. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matt Elliott, a former UCLA administrator, expected to be named UH athletic director. Matt Elliott, who was key in reshaping the college football landscape, is expected to be named the University of Hawaii’s athletic director, according to people familiar with the situation. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council adopts HART’s $968M budget. The City Council on Wednesday voted unanimously to approve the Hono­lulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s  $174.7 million operating budget and  a $793.6 million capital spending plan, above the current $574 million — a nearly 38.3% increase. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Sewer Fees Increase Approved In Narrow City Council Vote. The measure, which needs to be signed by Mayor Rick Blangiardi, raises rates at a slower pace than initially proposed. Councilman Augie Tulba said it’s still “a heavy lift for many families.” Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HPD interim chief appointment on hold. The chief of the Hawaii Police Department will not step down from his post ahead of a decision by the Honolulu Police Commission about who will serve as interim chief of the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. 

20 injured in city bus crash on H-1 near Honolulu airport. City officials say a total of 20 people were injured in Wednesday's crash involving a city bus and a pickup truck on the H-1 eastbound near the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Star-Advertiser. KITV4. 

Civil rights advocates urge governor to stop building new $1B jail. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and members of the Reimagining Public Safety Coalition gathered outside Gov. Josh Green’s office Wednesday to make their case against the state’s plans to replace the rundown Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. 

Hawaii Island

Big Island attorneys, businessman found guilty in housing credits scam. 78-year-old Paul Joseph Sulla Jr., 55-year-old Gary Charles Zamber, both attorneys, and 65-year-old businessman Rajesh P. Budhabhatti were convicted Wednesday by a federal jury in Honolulu in connection with a scam in which the trio received Hawaii County affordable housing credits and land conveyances worth at least $10.98 million, with no intention of developing affordable housing.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.  KHON2. 

Former Kona teacher guilty of sexually assaulting minor. A former Konawaena Middle School teacher was convicted last week of continuous sexual assault of a minor younger than 14 and attempted first-degree sexual assault. Tribune-Herald.

High Lava Fountains Mark Kīlauea Eruption Episode 24. Scientists reported fountains reached heights of more than 1,000 ft overnight, with large lava flows are covering Halemaʻumaʻu crater floor. Big Island Video News.

Head of Maunakea Authority says astronomy funding cuts will be ‘catalytic’ for all involved. Keck Observatory emphasized that it’s working with Hawaiʻi's congressional delegation to help pass a budget that will maintain astronomy in the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Key amendments proposed for vacation rental phase-out bill ahead of Council committee hearing. The contentious debate over the future of thousands of short-term vacation rentals in Maui County is heading to a much-anticipated public hearing Monday, June 9, before the Maui County Council’s Housing and Land Use Committee. Maui Now.

Meeting set to help native plant growers. Maui County water supply director John Stufflebean wants a new ordinance that provides a reduced rate for qualified native plant growers. Maui News.

Judge temporarily halts Job Corps closures, reinstating staff and offering hope to Maui’s center. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from shutting down more than 100 Job Corps centers nationwide — including the Maui Job Corps Center — offering a moment of relief for staff and students who just days ago were bracing for sudden closures. Maui Now.

MEO Head Start receives federal notification of funding for 2025-26 year. Maui Economic Opportunity’s Head Start preschool program has secured $2.7 million in federal funding for the 2025-26 school year, MEO announced on Wednesday. Maui Now.

Maui County Council passes $1.56B budget with an eye on 'shifting federal priorities'.  The council voted Tuesday on a final version of Bill 41, which details a budget about $46 million more than what Mayor Richard Bissen initially proposed in March. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Princeville residents take legal action against developer over anthrax-stricken land. A plan to convert designated open space into luxury vacation rental housing may pose a public health threat to Princeville residents, visitors, and island residents who work in Princeville, according to the lawsuit. Kauai Now.

New ambulance station completes coverage. The new station is located within the Hale Halawai complex of buildings, close to Waioli Park, which, in the past, served as an emergency helicopter drops site. The facility is near the heart of downtown Hanalei. Garden Island.

Green wants to create Federal Affairs Office, HECO execs got big raises despite financial woes, Maui police chief to stay on job despite Diddy lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Proposes a Federal Affairs Office To Make Hawaiʻi’s Case In DC. The governor is asking legislators for $1.3 million to fund five new positions over the next two years. Gov. Josh Green is asking for state money to open a new federal affairs office with staff in Hawaiʻi and Washington, D.C., citing dramatic shifts in federal policy that have already unfolded under President Donald Trump’s administration. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Execs Pocketed Huge Raises Despite $1.4B In Losses. Steering the utility from the brink of bankruptcy justified a $1.7 million raise for its CEO, the company said. Civil Beat.

Canadians cite Trump in canceling trips to Hawaii. A small sample of once-loyal Hawaii visitors from Canada have written to Gov. Josh Green and Hawaii tourism officials that they canceled their latest trips to the islands because of President Donald Trump’s comments and actions toward their country. Star-Advertiser.

Federal funding uncertainty puts climate resiliency bills in jeopardy. Major initiatives that would have created a dedicated funding stream for climate resiliency are in jeopardy at the state Legislature. Uncertainty regarding federal funding is pushing lawmakers to make tough decisions.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawmakers vote to keep invasive species council housed under land department. Lawmakers nixed a proposal to move the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council out from under the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s construction industry braces for trade war fallout. Some Hawaii businesses are feeling the fallout of President Donald Trump’s new tariffs. Now, all steel and aluminum imports, regardless of the country they came from, are subject to a 25% tariff. For China, that tariff is now up to 45% due to the existing tax.  Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii moves forward with search for next AD.  The process of hiring the University of Hawaii’s next athletic director is underway with the enlistment of a national search firm and the formation of a 10-member search committee, UH president Wendy Hensel announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New rail segment to open later this year. The second segment of Skyline is set to begin passenger operations on Oct. 1, expanding the City and County of Honolulu's rail system and bringing passengers closer to Honolulu's urban core.  Aloha State Daily.

Honolulu Council adopts ban on wheelies for e-bikes, motorcycles. A measure targeting the riders of electric bicycles, mopeds and motorcycles who perform stunts on public streets or roadways has successfully steered its way through the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Blangiardi's annual address highlights Honolulu rail and affordable housing progress. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s fifth State of the City address was filled with plans, announcements and highlights of his efforts to help residents and improve city services during his second four-year term. Hawaii Public Radio.

Housing opportunities among top focus for Honolulu officials in '25 and beyond. With some new housing opportunities getting set to open, including Pensacola Maikiki Banyan Apartments (90-unit affordable housing project, located at corner of Pensacola and Wilder) opening next year and another location on Algaroba (25 units, studios and 1-bedrooms, utilities included), opening in July, many feel progress is being made, but what more can be done? KITV4.

City councilmember to ask for police chief’s resignation if HPD vacancies hit 475. Honolulu City Councilmember Andria Tupola says police chief Joe Logan should step down if the number of vacancies in the Honolulu Police Department hit 475. As of March 1, HPD had 1,722 officers and 455 vacancies. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu police chief apologizes for silence over Waikiki shooting. Honolulu’s police chief is apologizing for failing to inform the public about potential danger. This time, the department didn’t alert the public after an apparent shootout Sunday night in Waikiki that might have involved an automatic weapon with the shooter or shooters still at large. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Is Being Evicted Amid Federal Cuts. Observatory leaders have assured local emergency officials their public service will continue, but questions linger about how and where that work will happen. Civil Beat.

Private utility company requesting temporary water/wastewater rate increases for Punalu‘u. Due to opposition to the Punalu‘u Village, the owner has ceased further financial support for Punalu‘u Water and Sanitation and has requested rate increases for the approximately 100 households that use the private system. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Police Commission opts against putting chief on leave over Diddy lawsuit. The Maui Police Commission decided Wednesday against placing Maui Police Chief John Pelletier on administrative leave, as recommended by the mayor after the filing of a civil lawsuit in Northern California alleging Pelletier acted as an operative in 2018 for rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs to help hide his alleged sexual assaults. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui News.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

County Department of Human Concerns seeking feedback on community needs. The County of Maui Department of Human Concerns is seeking resident feedback to improve existing services and identify needs for new services to support Maui County residents.  Maui Now.

Children displaced by Maui fires will receive playhouse at temporary school. To support the children affected by the 2023 Maui wildfires, the nonprofit Maui United Way is funding the installation of a children’s playhouse at the temporary Kamehameha III School in Pulelehua. Spectrum News.

Kauai

County Engineering Division now offers road permit applications online. A road permit is required for any work within a county right of way. The county’s Department of Public Works Engineering Division recently launched an online application process for the permits on the Kaua‘i County website. Kauai Now.

2 new renewable projects would bring Garden Isle close to 80% renewable energy within 3 years. Two new solar-plus-battery-storage projects being pursued by Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative would bring the Garden Isle close to 80% renewable energy before the end of this decade. Kauai Now.

Foreign ownership of Hawaii farmland spikes, Calvin Say ends long political career, Queen's nurses vote to strike, 3 dead, dozens injured in Oahu fireworks explosion, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

From Busboy To House Speaker: Longtime Hawaiʻi Lawmaker Calvin Say Retires. Say’s critics see him as emblematic of Hawaiʻi’s “old boys’” style of politics. He defends his cautious style as necessary to keep the state running smoothly. Civil Beat.

Foreign ownership of Hawaiʻiʻs farmland has spiked over the past five years from 166,000 acres to 278,000 acres — a 65% increase, most of it purchased by companies and investors from Canada — according to a USDA Farm Service Agency report released this month. Civil Beat.

New year begins with lower state taxes for all. The state Legislature in 2024 passed the first of what’s intended to be seven years of historic tax cuts designed to make Hawaii increasingly more affordable over the course of the cuts. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Has Been Arguing Over How To Tax Tourists For Generations. Gov. Josh Green’s push for tourists to help fund climate mitigation is just the latest round of a debate that goes back nearly a century. Civil Beat.

Did The Legislature Have Authority To Defer Pay Raises During the Pandemic? Two prominent members of the state Salary Commission question whether lawmakers violated the state constitution in 2021 and 2022. Civil Beat.

Here’s How A Second Trump Term May Impact Hawaiʻi Police. Police officials are taking a wait-and-see attitude as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office after pledging to be tough on crime. Civil rights advocates are worried about criminal justice reform efforts. Civil Beat.

State moves forward with more cameras to crack down on red-light runners. Ten additional cameras planned for 2025.  A proposed list will be presented to state lawmakers for approval and a public information period will follow. Hawaii News Now.

New Hawaiʻi law seeks to protect domestic abuse survivors from excessive litigation. Abusive litigation is when an abusive partner files excessive, and often meritless, legal actions against their partner or former partner. Hawaii Public Radio.

HEI sells 90% of American Savings Bank to help pay for Maui fire settlement. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. has sold over 90% of its subsidiary American Savings Bank to independent investors in a transaction that will provide HEI with much-needed funds to help pay its share of the $4 billion Maui wildfire lawsuit settlement while also keeping Hawaii’s third-largest bank under local leadership. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Oahu

3 people dead, over 2 dozen wounded in Aliamanu fireworks explosion. Three women were killed and about two dozen people injured at an Aliamanu home when a “cake bomb” filled with illegal aerial fireworks set off massive explosions at 12:01 a.m. at a large New Year’s Eve party. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

Inauguration ceremonies for mayor, Council to take place Thursday. Inauguration ceremonies for Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s second term and the incoming Honolulu City Council will take place separately Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Council salary cap, other laws take effect. New laws that go into effect with the new year include capping future Honolulu City Council raises at 5% annually, after the Council in 2023 was approved for a whopping 64% pay hike. Star-Advertiser.

Town hall meetings slated on proposed sewer fee hikes. A city-initiated measure that calls for a more than 124% increase to sewer fees for Honolulu’s average single-family residential customer over a 10-year period will be part of upcoming city-hosted town hall meetings in January. Star-Advertiser.

90% Queen’s Medical Center nurses vote in favor of strike. More than 1,900 nurses at The Queen’s Medical Center have voted in favor of a strike over unfair labor practices. KHON2.

Council OKs settlement in Portlock flooding lawsuit. Filed in 1st Circuit Court in November 2023, the lawsuit by plaintiffs Michael Sklarz and Jo Frasier claimed their residence at 158 Hanapepe Loop in the Portlock neighborhood of Hawaii Kai was severely damaged after “contaminated floodwater, wastewater, and debris” overflowed from a nearby storm drain onto their property and into their home. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island traffic fatalities nearly doubled in 2024, contributing to a statewide increase. Hawaiʻi County saw the second highest number of traffic-related fatalities with a total of 29 — a nearly 100% increase from 15 in 2023. Traffic-related crashes resulted in 102 fatalities statewide in 2024, which is a 10% increase from 93 fatalities last year, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation. Big Island Now.

Kīlauea Volcano Eruption Continues Into 2025. Eruptive activity has been confined to Halemaʻumaʻu with sustained lava fountaining. Big Island Video News. Garden Island.

Maui

Maui tourism rebounds in November 2024, visitor spending surpasses pre-wildfire levels: Maui visiors up more than 21% over November 2023. On Maui, there were 197,622 visitors in November, which was 21.6% higher than November 2023 (162,470), but still down 14.9% from November 2019 (232,330). Visitor spending increased to $435.7 million in November, compared to $378.2 million in November 2023 and $377.9 million in November 2019. Maui News. Maui Now.

Kauai

Endangered native birds hatch at Kauai Community College taro field. Six endangered alae ula, or the Hawaiian Moorhen, showed up at the loi a few months before December, and the chicks hatched in the loi in December. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii braces for federal shutdown, state income tax cuts set to kick in, man sentenced for sending Chinese mothers to Hawaii to give birth, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii jobless claims, tourism jumped in last federal closure. Unemployment claims jumped in Hawaii, but so did visitor arrivals, the last time the federal government struggled through a partial shutdown six years ago through the holidays. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Green lays out his priorities in current political climate. A federal government shutdown looms as Congress goes down to the wire on a Friday night deadline to deal with the budget. Hawaii Public Radio.

Income tax cuts set to kick in. Hawaii taxpayers should have a happy New Year as the first of a series of historic tax cuts takes effect in January. Each year until 2031, the new tax plan will eliminate the lowest tax brackets, reduce the tax rates for all brackets, and increase the standard income tax deduction. Tribune-Herald. Maui News.

UH initiative aims to provide accessible cancer care across the state. The University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center and the John A. Burns School of Medicine have launched the Ka ‘Umeke Lama initiative to address health disparities and access to care in the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

HECO’s Report On Maui Wildfires Mirrors Prior Investigations. Utility does not dispute earlier findings its equipment started the fire that destroyed much of Lahaina in 2023. Hawaiian Electric Co. added to the pile of reports on Thursday, filing a 59-page accounting to the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission that provided no new information about the cause of the blaze or the companyʻs response. Civil Beat.

California man behind ‘birth tourism’ scheme told Chinese clients to fly to Hawaii.  Michael Liu, 59, was sentenced Monday to 41 months in federal prison for his role in the scheme. Court records show Liu and 47-year-old Jing Dong charged people from China tens of thousands of dollars to help them get to the U.S. so that they could give birth. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaiʻi Public Radio Executive Dead At 61.  Staff and supporters of public radio in the islands are mourning the death of José Fajardo, who died Thursday. Fajardo was president and general manager of Hawai‘i Public Radio from 2016 until earlier this year. He died at age 61 from complications from ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Developer releases new renderings of New Aloha Stadium project. The goal – have a venue that people can visit 365 days a year. That’s what developers of the New Aloha Stadium said Thursday, as they gave the public a glimpse of what’s being planned. KHON2.

United flight attendants rally at Honolulu airport before travel rush. United flight attendants held a labor picket Thursday at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in advance of the busy holiday travel rush when travelers don’t want to think about disruptions and delays. Star-Advertiser.

Aid soon on its way to Dillingham businesses hit hard by rail construction. The city is getting closer to providing relief to businesses derailed by construction along Dillingham Blvd.  The Rail Transit Mitigation Fund, announced in July, hasn’t paid anyone yet because the city had to develop rules, a way accept applications, and award the funds. KHON2.

Would Eddie go this Sunday? Yellow alert active for North Shore surf contest. A yellow alert was issued for the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational with a possible run this Sunday.The 2024-2025 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational will take place if surf consistently reaches 40 feet between Dec. 14, 2024 to March 13, 2025. KITV4.

With ‘The Eddie’ possible, groups and organizers urge safety — and to leave a lot at home. The world-famous beach can normally accommodate huge crowds, but that’s not the case when Eddie-sized swells roll in for the Super Bowl of surfing. Hawaii News Now.

Surge in pedestrian crashes on Oahu highlights disturbing trend. Between Jan. 1, 2024 and Dec. 11, 2024, Honolulu EMS responded to 137 pedestrian crashes — a number that has already surpassed last year’s total of 121. That’s a 13% increase. And the year’s not over. Meanwhile, the Honolulu Police Department says fatal crashes are up nearly 40% from 11 in 2023 to 15 so far this year. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hilo jail expansion unveiled. Corrections officials, dignitaries and other prominent community members gathered Thursday at Hawaii Community Correctional Center’s main Hilo campus to dedicate the brand-new Kamana Housing Unit. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Maui

Land Board rejects revetment proposal for Hololani Resort erosion. By a narrow 4-3 vote, the Board of Land and Natural Resources rejected a request last week from Hololani Resort apartment owners seeking an amendment to 2018 board action for a sheet pile and rock revetment to protect the property from shoreline erosion. Maui Now.

Maui County recognized for budget presentation, financial reporting. Maui County recently received awards for distinguished budget presentation and excellence in financial reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association. Maui News. Maui Now.

Transgender-related policies proposed for Maui Preparatory Academy face backlash. The proposed rules would require students to use he/she pronouns only and no alternatives will be acknowledged. Restrooms would be used based on biological birth gender and students would only be allowed to dress themselves in the uniform of their birth gender.  KITV4.

New study looks at effects of plastic in live wedge-tailed shearwaters. The Hawaiian Islands are magnets for plastic debris from around the Pacific Basin. Plastic accumulates on our shorelines, where it’s eaten by fish, birds, and other wildlife.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

County council celebrates waterman Nick Beck. Nick Beck received the Kauai County Council’s commendation during the Wednesday council meeting for his induction into the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation Waterman Hall of Fame. Garden Island.

Tourism expected to increase, Honolulu delays landfill location announcement, Merrie Monarch tickets go on sale Monday, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii tourism seen strengthening in first quarter 2025.  The gains, which started in the fourth quarter, have not returned Hawaii tourism to its peak and aren’t expected to change the state Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism’s forecast declines this year. DBEDT’s latest forecast anticipates that Hawaii tourism will end the year with 9.56 million arrivals, a 1% contraction from 2023, and that spending will fall to $20.74 billion, off 0.6% from 2023. Star-Advertiser.

Some Vacationers Wonder: Is It Possible to be a Good Tourist in Hawai‘i, or Should I Just Stay Away? Globally, many popular destinations are experiencing a backlash against tourism. Hawaii Business magazine.

Hawaiʻi public schools seek centralized kitchens to grow local meals for keiki. What if 'eat local' starts at school? This was the topic of conversation at the Hawai'i Agricultural Foundation’s recent Eat Think Drink event. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matthias Kusch Reappointed To Hawaii State House Seat. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday reappointed Matthias Kusch to fill a seat that was made vacate by the death in June of state Rep. Mark Nakashima. Kusch held the seat since his initial appointment by Green in August. Civil Beat.

Leadership and committee assignments announced ahead of 33rd Legislature. The Hawaiʻi State Senate announced its finalized leadership and committee assignments ahead of the 33rd Legislature that opens on Jan. 15, 2025.  Maui Now.

HECO data shows customers aren't responding to time-of-use rates.  Hawaiian Electric put a trial group of residential and commercial customers on Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island on time-of-use rates at the beginning of 2024. The first six months of data from Jan-June showed no statistically significant change in customers' energy usage. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Mental Health Crisis In Hawaii’s Prisons: ‘The Suicides Keep Coming’. The latest deaths would make the number of suicides the highest in a single year since 2020. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City postpones identifying next landfill site. Although they said it would be named in November, Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration now says the future site for Oahu’s next municipal landfill will be made public in December. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Marathon and related events track toward record runners. The Honolulu Marathon events — the marathon, the Start to Park 10K and the Kalakaua Merrie Mile — are closing in on surpassing peak 1995 attendance, when Japanese marathoners ruled the roads. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Strong October for tourism: Big Island had 132,392 visitors in the last month. Visitors to the Big Island exceeded prepandemic rates last month even as international travel lags far behind. Tribune-Herald.

Two county employees charged with gas theft. On Monday afternoon, 37-year-old Christin Eve Ho’omaikainani Ho and 39-year-old Chase K. Leopoldino, both of Hilo, were charged with misdemeanor theft. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Rep. Ilagan Plans 12 Days Of Puna Town Halls. Puna’s State House Representative Greggor Ilagan will be holding a series of town hall meetings in his district during the month of December. Big Island Video News.

Merrie Monarch Festival tickets will soon go on sale. The 62nd Annual Merrie Monarch Festival tickets will go on sale next Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

FEMA’s Kilohana temporary housing in Lahaina welcomes its first wildfire survivors. Lafaele and Ane Folaumoeloa and their three children became the first tenants of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Kilohana Group Housing on Friday. Once complete, Kilohana will become a temporary haven for up to 167 individuals and families – a Lahaina location where wildfire survivors can plan for the future.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai Writers Conference draws 400, including 40 local students. Some of America’s most engaging storytellers gathered on the Garden Isle this month for the 10th annual Kauai Writers Conference. Garden Island.