Democrats reconcile at Unity Breakfast, House leaders plan reorganization after Speaker Saiki's defeat, lowest voter turnout since statehood, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Departure of House Speaker Scott Saiki Will Test Lawmakers’ Appetite For Reform. Likely candidates for speaker mentioned by insiders include Majority Leader Nadine Nakamura; Water and Land Committee Chair Linda Ichiyama, Finance Committee Chair Kyle Yamashita, and Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee Chair David Tarnas. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii Saw The Worst Voter Turnout Saturday Of Any Primary Since Statehood. Just 269,912 of the 839,618 people registered statewide filled out a ballot. That works out to 32.1%. Civil Beat.

Looking for more election coverage? Check out the special Sunday edition of All Hawaii News.

Customers Won’t Pay For HECO’s $2 Billion Wildfire Settlement, CEO Says. Hawaiian Electric Industries said there is risk it cannot continue as a going concern if it can't find financing to cover wildfire liabilities. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Teacher Shortage Is Finally Improving. Will It Last? The Hawaii Department of Education has the lowest number of teacher vacancies the state has seen since 2019, but schools may experience a surge in retirements in the coming years. Civil Beat.

Multiple Hawaii athletes medal at Paris Olympics. Hawaii’s Olympic athletes fared quite well, with multiple athletes across multiple sports earning medals. KHON2.

Oahu

Police continue search for attempted murder suspects after teen shot on city bus in Kalihi. Officials say the suspects are part of the attempted murder investigation launched after a bullet hit a 17-year-old boy. Police say it was fired by two males on a moped near School Street and Kamehameha Four Road. Hawaii News Now.

City looks to restore the historic Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium. The Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium is almost 100 years old, but it’s been closed to the public for the last 45 years because of deteriorating conditions.  Hawaii Public Radio.

City delays removal of Haiku Stairs segments. The city administration’s sanctioned removal of 10 to 15 steel stair modules — out of the hundreds of such modules bolted to a sheer ridgeline in Windward Oahu that comprise the “Stairway to Heaven” was not done because modules in question were not “fully” detached, as the city previously claimed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Puainako Street Resurfacing Project Extended. The Puainako Street Resurfacing Project is being extended through September 2024.  Big Island Video News.

Maui

Process of rebuilding begins in Lahaina. Overall, rebuilding in Lahaina is being challenged in many cases by daunting forces that include financial constraints of property owners and regulations governing special areas such as the town’s historic district and nearshore parcels. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Police names new deputy chief after position was vacant for 2 years. Kaua‘i Police Department’s Mark Ozaki was named the new deputy chief, effective Oct. 1, after two years of the second-in-command position being vacant. Kauai Now.

Hawaii elections officials rethink mail-only ballots, long lines spur COVID-19 concerns, Blangiardi and Roth solicit cabinet appointees, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii voters line up in Hilo ©2020 All Hawaii News

 Last-minute surge of isle voters flooded election sites. In a last rush to have their opinion count, hundreds of voters showed up just before the 7 p.m. scheduled close of Hawaii voting centers across every county on Election Day, delaying the release of results for more than four hours. Out of 832,466 registered voters — another record — the number of ballots cast represented 69.6% of registered voters. Star-Advertiser.

‘Distrust,’ Enthusiasm And A Hawaii Law Fueled Long Lines On Election Day. Thousands of Hawaii voters waited for hours in lines outside of Hawaii’s eight voter centers Tuesday night, a situation that election officials have promised to remedy but one that citizen groups have been warning against for months. Civil Beat.

Long wait for Hawaii vote spurs call for more voter centers. Voter advocates say Hawaii should set up more voter service centers after a last-minute surge of interest led to hours-long lines for in-person voting on Election Day even as the state switched to a vote-by-mail system for casting ballots. Associated Press.

What worked, what didn’t: Election officials discuss improvements for next election. Election officials said they are reviewing how election-day went after thousands showed-up for in-person voting services on election day. Hawaii News Now.

Near midnight wait leads to call for more voting centers by 2022. Some voter service centers moved like clockwork and mostly by the election clock. Kauai finished in-person voting just after 7 p.m. Maui and Kona closed about an hour after that, and Hilo at 8:30 p.m. But on Oahu, people were still in line at Honolulu Hale until 10:30 p.m. and Kapolei Hale until nearly 11:30 p.m. KHON2.

Local support for Trump grew in 2020, but it didn’t translate into down-ballot wins. Local support for the Republican presidential candidate rose in 2020 to the highest level observed since the 2004 general election, a sign that enthusiasm for incumbent Donald J. Trump across Hawaii was strong despite the state’s reputation as a Democratic stronghold. Hawaii News Now.

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In A Divided America Kai Kahele Wants To Find A Place To ‘Fit In’. The Democratic state senator is only the second Native Hawaiian elected to Congress since statehood. Civil Beat.

Kahele hopes to bring neighbor island perspective to Congress. Democratic state Sen. Kai Kahele plans to amplify the voices of the neighbor islands after winning the U.S. House District 2 seat Tuesday night with 63% of the vote. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo’s Kai Kahele Heading To Washington As Next Congressman. Kahele is looking to recruit individuals to serve in key positions on his Congressional staff in Washington D.C. and in his District Office. Big Island Video News.

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Tam To Serve As Only Open LBGTQ State Lawmaker. Adrian Tam is the new state House representative for District 22 covering the Kakaako and Waikiki area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Suicides In Hawaii Appear To Be Decreasing — Despite Pandemic. Experts say the preliminary data is an encouraging indicator that people are paying closer attention to their mental health and getting help. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — Nov. 4: 156 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Hawaii health officials reported 156 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, including 21 cases on Hawaii Island, one on Lanai, four on Maui, 125 on Oahu, and five out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor-elect Rick Blangiardi’s transition team already underway. Honolulu Mayor-elect Rick Blangiardi said today that he has his sights set on a second-in-command and is putting together a transition group to help him pick others in his cabinet. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s next mayor is ready to hit the ground running. After winning the election, Rick Blangiardi says that he is ready to tackle some of the city’s most important issues. KHON2.

Why Honolulu Chose Rick Blangiardi Over Keith Amemiya. First-time candidates Rick Blangiardi and Keith Amemiya couldn’t run on their political records, so experts say it came down to personality. Civil Beat.

A day after election, efforts to reorganize City Council are already underway. There are five newcomers on the nine-member City Council ― its biggest turnover in years. Hawaii News Now.

Some first time politicians have been elected on O'ahu. First time politicians join City Council. KITV4.

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Long lines at Oahu polling locations trigger fears of COVID-19 spread. Onlookers are raising concerns about whether the large crowds of voters ― hundreds at several points through the day and into the evening ― could have been exposed to COVID-19. Hawaii News Now.

You didn't need a mask to vote in Honolulu. Of the more than 4,200 in-person voters on O'ahu, Honolulu Elections Administrator Rex Quidilla told KITV4 only a "handful" refused to wear a mask. KITV4.

Long Election Day voter lines lead to complaints. Honolulu election officials said they anticipated more Oahu residents would show up on Election Day to vote at one of the two designated voter services centers on the island, just not 4,520 of them during that 12-hour span. Star-Advertiser.

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Honolulu appears unlikely to advance to Tier 3. With 125 coronavirus cases reported on Oahu, it appears unlikely that Honolulu will move this month to the next phase of economic reopening. In fact, it could move backward, warns Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Department to deploy COVID-19 quarantine response teams on Oahu. The Honolulu Police Department has created a small unit of police officers to check up on incoming travelers who are supposed to be quarantined on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Ward Village developer plans for 2 more towers. Two towers with 1,243 homes will be in the next phase of Ward Village, according to the developer of the master-planned community in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Pali Lookout reopens to trickle of visitors. A trickle of visitors on Wednesday enjoyed the panoramic view at Nuuanu Pali State Wayside — more popularly known as Pali Lookout — on the first day of its reopening since the COVID-19 pandemic struck in March. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Roth hitting the ground running: Cabinet positions available to be filled by Dec. 7. After a decisive win late Tuesday in his bid for mayor, Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth hit the ground running Wednesday, preparing to close one county office while he begins assembling a cabinet so he’ll be ready to take over the next one Dec. 7. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Mayor-elect Mitch Roth wants to change the ‘philosophy of government’. Hawaii County-elect Mayor Mitch Roth will take over on Dec. 7, giving him just over a month to build his cabinet. Star-Advertiser.

Kimball, Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder talk priorities after winning council seats in Tuesday’s election. The District 1 and District 5 contests were the only contested council races on the ballot in the general election. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island to Change Pre-Travel Testing Model, Administer Fewer Second Tests. Hawai‘i County will transition away from its pre-travel testing model, through which all travelers are tested twice, once on the mainland and once upon their arrival to the Big Island. Big Island Now.

Ke Kula O Ehunuikaimalino students test positive for COVID-19. Two Ke Kula O Ehunuikaimalino students recently tested positive for COVID-19, days after the school reopened for limited in-person learning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Voting officials surprised by large Maui precinct turnout. More than 230 voters in line during peakCounty officials and volunteers were surprised with the large turnout of in-person voters on Election Day at the Velma McWayne Santos Community Center in Wailuku. Maui Now.

MEO Celebrates New Buses with Blessing. The buses will primarily transport Head Start keiki and will supplement MEO Youth transportation services. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i sees 72% turnout for 2020 General Election. Kaua‘i recorded a record 72% voter turnout for the 2020 General Election. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i residents approve six charter amendments. Residents voted in favor of reducing the qualifications required to be considered for the roles of the county’s Department of Public Works County Engineer and Water Board Manager. Garden Island.

Kawakami signs Bill No. 2803. Mayor Derek Kawakami signed Bill No. 2803, amending homestead-exemption status for full-time Kaua‘i residents for property-tax purposes. Garden Island.

Hawaii mulls medical marijuana for anxiety, insomnia; gun sales surge; Caldwell holds gubernatorial fundraiser, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Medical marijuana sign in Hawaii ©2020 All Hawaii News

 

Petitions would add 3 conditions to medical pot list. Petitions seeking to add anxiety, depression and insomnia to the list of “debilitating medical conditions” that qualify Hawaii patients for medical cannabis use will undergo a public hearing Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Gun sales surge, creating a backlog to process permits. Gun sales have taken off like a shot, leaving some counties struggling to keep up with the surge in permits and registrations. KITV4.

A week out from Election Day, more than half of all registered voters in Hawaii have cast their ballots, following a trend seen across the U.S. Statewide voter turnout on Tuesday was about 51.9%, according to data provided by the county clerks’ offices. Civil Beat.

Virtual fundraiser supporting Caldwell’s bid for governor raises eyebrows. A fundraiser hosted by Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday afternoon is raising eyebrows. That’s because proceeds from the virtual event go to his run for governor in 2022. Hawaii News Now.

Some worry state will botch rollout of program that extends unemployment benefits.  For those who have used up their 26 weeks of unemployment and the 13 weeks of federal pandemic emergency unemployment compensation, there is another option. Hawaii News Now.

HTA consultant: Canadians eager to fly back to Hawaii ahead of harsh winter. With tourists from the mainland flooding into Hawaii, and a pre-travel testing plan starting for Japan, residents in other countries are eagerly awaiting their turn to be allowed to travel to the islands with a negative COVID test. Hawaii News Now.

Dark Days: Hawaiian Airlines’ Struggles Reflect The Pain Of The Tourism Industry. The state’s largest private employer before COVID-19 struck, Hawaiian Airlines business took a nosedive in the third quarter of 2020. Civil Beat.

Retired state official to pay $5,000 fine for accepting $650 in meals at Honolulu restaurants. The former chief examiner of the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs’ Insurance Division will pay a $5,000 fine after accepting over $650 worth of meals from a vendor he oversaw, including dinner for himself and his wife at upscale Nobu Honolulu restaurant, the state Ethics Commission said today. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — Oct. 28: 62 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. The new cases include 41 on Oahu, five on Hawaii island, two on Maui, one on Kauai and seven on Lanai. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Oahu vote tally topples record. The Honolulu Elections Division had tallied 313,320 ballots as of the end of day today. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayoral candidate Rick Blangiardi now outraising, outspending Keith Amemiya. For the first time this election season, Honolulu mayoral candidate Rick Blangiardi’s campaign is outpacing opponent Keith Amemiya’s team in both collections and expenditures. Star-Advertiser.

Latest spending figures released in Honolulu mayoral race. They show former television executive Rick Blangiardi outspending attorney Keith Amemiya in the final leg of the campaign trail. Blangiardi spent about $170,000 more than Amemiya during the last month. Hawaii News Now. 

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Hawaii Opens Section 8 Waitlist For Oahu Renters. Current Oahu renters can sign up online between Thursday and Monday to try to get on the waitlist. Civil Beat.

Hawaii opens Section 8 housing waitlist. The federal housing money is being directed at needy Oahu families who are struggling to keep their homes during the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time in four years, state is opening Section 8 housing voucher applications. When the state starts accepting applications for its Housing Choice Voucher program or Section 8 on Thursday, the executive director of the Hawaii Public Housing Authority expects about 20,000 people on Oahu to sign-up. KITV4.

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City reports another Honolulu city bus driver has tested positive for COVID-19. Another TheBus driver has tested positive for COVID-19, city officials confirmed today, the second one to be reported, so far, this week. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police officers will be out on Halloween to enforce COVID-19 rules. Mayor Kirk Caldwell once again urged Oahu visitors and residents not to let down their guard, hold large gatherings or cluster in Waikiki on Halloween this Saturday due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

How SHOPO Keeps Trying To Hide Police Misconduct Despite New Disclosure Law. The statewide police union doesn’t want the public to have access to the arbitration decision that gave alleged abuser Darren Cachola his badge back. Civil Beat.

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NTSB: Pilot in deadly 2019 skydiving plane crash often did risky maneuvers. More than 16 months after a deadly skydiving plane crash at Dillingham Airfield, the final NTSB report highlights mechanical problems with the aircraft, as well as concerns about the pilot. Hawaii News Now.

NTSB releases details from skydiving plane crash that killed 11 at Dillingham Airfield. Federal officials released documents today that provide details about one of the deadliest U.S. civil aviation accidents of the past decade, including testimony from people who had varying accounts of the crash pilot’s flight habits. Star-Advertiser.

NTSB releases final report on deadly Mokuleia skydiving crash. Sixteen months after a horrific skydiving crash in Mokuleia that killed 11 people, the National Transportation Safety Board released its final report. KHON2.

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Gambling machines, cash and drugs seized from illegal game room in McCullyTwenty gambling machines, cash, and drugs were seized from an illegal game room in the McCully area on Tuesday night. KITV4.

Olive Garden to open Thursday at Ala Moana Center. Hawaii’s first Olive Garden is scheduled to open Thursday, just as plans for a second location in Kapolei have been announced. Star-Advertiser.

Olive Garden set to open first location at Ala Moana Center Thursday. In a year filled with devastating news about the restaurant industry, here’s a bright spot: Olive Garden’s first Hawaii location will open on Thursday, Oct. 29, at Ala Moana Center. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Compost facility on hold: Green waste, food scrap shortage could spell doom to $10.5M plant. A $10.5 million facility intended to take green waste and mix it with other materials to make compost is on hold after officials discovered they’re missing a critical ingredient — food waste to make the material cook to the high temperature needed in the composting process. West Hawaii Today.

PUC, others respond to Honua Ola’s high court request. The state Public Utilities Commission has asked that a petition filed last month by Honua Ola Bioenergy — which seeks to vacate the commission’s July 9 decision that nullified an amended power purchase agreement between the nearly completed Pepeekeo power plant and Hawaiian Electric Co. — be denied in its entirety. Tribune-Herald.

New light snarls traffic: DOT says timing will undergo adjustments. A new traffic light located at the intersection of Highway 11 and Kipimana Street — the entrance to Shipman Business Park — began normal operation on Monday morning, but traffic was snarled along the highway that afternoon. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Free COVID-19 testing available across island. Maui County is offering free COVID-19 testing in West, South and Central Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai visitor tests positive for COVID-19 after twice testing negative. Kauai health officials today reported a new positive case of COVID-19 from an adult, female visitor who has been placed in isolation. Star-Advertiser.

DOH: New active case has negative pre and post-travel tests. The Kaua‘i District Health Office reported a new positive case of COVID-19 among an adult female visitor yesterday. Garden Island.

Over 600 cats and dogs make their way to Mainland. Wednesday afternoon, 302 furry friends jetted off Kaua‘i toward their new furry futures on the Mainland. Garden Island.

Target to open at Kukui Grove Center. The planned store will cover approximately 122,000 square feet following a renovation to the existing space at the Kukui Marketplace. Garden Island.

Molokai

Mayor Victorino announces free COVID-19 community testing will be offered Thursday. Maui County Michael Victorino announced on Wednesday that free, COVID-19 community testing will be offered on Thursday, November 5 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Pauole Community Center on Moloka'i. KITV4.

Lanai

Lāna‘i COVID-19 Cases Now 94: Mayor Expects Leveling Off and Steady Decline in Next Week. So far, an estimated 87% of the island population on Lānaʻi has been tested with 2,747 tests administered since an outbreak was first reported early last week.  That brings the island’s positivity rate to 3.13 percent. Maui Now.

Victorino upbeat about Lanai’s COVID-19 status. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino is confident that the COVID-19 outbreak on Lanai is under control after the issuing of a stay-at-home order Tuesday and encouraging results from recent surge testing. Maui News.

Hawaii shows that mail-in voting can work. Record turnout, smooth election. Plus latest COVID-19 counts and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

More than 406,000 ballots were cast. That’s a record number for a Hawaii primary. More than half of Hawaii’s registered voters, about 51 percent, cast their ballots in the state’s first mail-in primary. According to Political Analyst, Colin Moore, the last time we saw a turnout like this was in 1996. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii sees more than 40 percent increase in voter turnout with all mail-in primary. This year's primary saw a record turn out in voters for the state. Over 400,000 ballots were cast in this election compared to 286,000 in the 2018 primary, a 42 percent increase in voters. KITV4.

The Primary That Upset Hawaii’s Mango Cart. A desire for new blood felled or threatened political veterans and fueled the campaigns of hungry newcomers, all under a new system of voting. Civil Beat.

2020 Primary Election Results. KITV4.

Primary Election: Official state and county votes can be found here.

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How Bad Is Hawaii At Social Distancing? Here’s What The Data Shows. Mobility data gives us a clearer picture of just how much people have been moving around during the pandemic. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s weak contact tracing effort is hindering the control of coronavirus’ spread. Jendrick Paul, president of the Marshallese Community Organization of Hawaii, said Sunday that he’s worried state Department of Health contact tracers can’t keep up with the surge of coronavirus cases in Hawaii’s tightknit Pacific Islander community. Star-Advertiser.

The State Has A Plan For When To Reopen Or Reclose. Why Aren’t We Following It? Available data suggests Oahu should impose stricter measures, according to the state’s plan. Civil Beat.

‘We are super spreaders,’ says Dr. Scott Miscovich. Hawaii is veering into “super spreader” territory with the rise in COVID-19 cases. Hawaii health officials reported 152 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, raising the statewide total since the start of the pandemic to 3,498. Star-Advertiser.

152 New COVID-19 Cases in Hawai‘i (O‘ahu 147, Big Island 3, Maui 1, Kaua‘i 1). Hawai‘i has recorded another triple-digit day for new COVID-19 cases in the state.  Maui Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 9: 152 New Cases. Nearly all the cases were on Oahu, where hospitals are preparing for a surge in patients. Civil Beat.

The Latest: 152 New Cases; Health Director: Expect More Deaths As Surge Continues; 3 Inmates Positive. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Updated results confirm November runoffs for Blangiardi and Amemiya, and Alm and Kau. Honolulu mayoral candidates Rick Blangiardi and Keith Amemiya are headed to a Nov. 3 runoff with 25.6% and 20.2% of the vote respectively. Colleen Hanabusa remained in third place with 18.4% of the vote. Star-Advertiser.

Voters set up runoff for mayor between political newcomers: Blangiardi and Amemiya. Oahu voters, apparently fed up with the status quo and facing an uncertain economic outlook, threw their support in Saturday’s primary election behind two first-time political candidates who have promised change and a fresh perspective to old problems. Hawaii News Now.

Blangiardi and Amemiya discuss plans heading into Hawaii’s general election. Two mayoral candidates will be moving on to Hawaii’s general elections in November.  KHON2.

Tupola, Say win City Council seat outright; Espero and Augie T. advance to general. Former state representative and one-time Republican gubernatorial candidate Andria Tupola shot out to an insurmountable lead in her race for the Honolulu City Council’s District I seat early on Saturday night, handily winning the seat. Hawaii News Now.

Alm, Kau proceed to general election runoff in race for city prosecutor. Retired Judge Steve Alm and defense attorney Megan Kau will proceed to a general election runoff in the race for city prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

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Total of 6 inmates, 3 adult corrections officers at OCCC test positive for COVID-19. The Department of Public Safety confirms the number of COVID-19 cases at OCCC continues to grow. Hawaii News Now.

Liquor Commission shuts down 10 establishments for violating Mayor’s rules. The Honolulu Liquor Commission is strictly enforcing the mayor’s latest orders for bars to close down for three weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Several Hawaii breweries disagree with liquor commission shutting them down. Under Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s order issued at the end of July, he ordered the shut down of all bars for at least three weeks. KHON2.

Walmart Keeaumoku closes for cleaning; will reopen on Tuesday. The company confirmed the closure began at 2 p.m. on Sunday and will remain in place through Monday. It will reopen at 7 a.m. on Tuesday. Walmart would not confirm if this was in response to a positive case in an employee or not. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth, Marzo face runoff after defeating Kim for mayor. A countywide elected official with experience running a large government agency, or a fresh face with no government experience at all? That’s the choice facing Hawaii County voters in the Nov. 3 general election when they decide who will be the county mayor. West Hawaii Today.

Waltjen wins prosecutor’s race, narrowly avoids November runoff. Deputy Prosecutor Kelden Waltjen narrowly averted a runoff in the race for Hawaii County prosecutor after the second printout of primary election results was released Saturday night. Tribune-Herald.

County mulls suing companies for damage caused by climate change. While the Hawaii County Council passed a resolution last Wednesday to join a lawsuit by the City and County of Honolulu against a collective of fossil fuel companies, Hawaii County Corporation Counsel Joe Kamelamela said last week that the county will likely not join the Honolulu lawsuit but instead consider pursuing its own lawsuit. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Incumbents easily take top spots in council races. Maui County Council incumbents easily captured the most votes in three separate three-way races Saturday night. Maui News.

DeCoite leads Ritte by 91 votes in latest tally, though recount pending. Rep. Lynn DeCoite staved off a strong challenge from activist Walter Ritte in a Democratic race for House District 13 in a contest, though both candidates were awaiting the results of a mandatory recount Monday before calling the race. Maui News.

Hawaii 2020 Primary Election Results: Fourth Printout (11:44 a.m. Update). Maui Now.

Medical, work exemptions for quarantine order can be requested for trips to Maui County. Starting August 11, the partial quarantine order will take place. KHON2.

Kauai

On to the general election. Kaua‘i voter turnout was slightly less than the statewide turnout for the primary election, but 49% of registered voters had their ballots counted on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

County directors weigh in on housing resources. On Kaua‘i, there are 716 individuals receiving direct rental assistance through the county. Garden Island.

Solid Waste Division OT over budget again. The county Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division had a total overtime budget of $227,000 in fiscal year 2020. Garden Island.

A good year for flowers, Honolulu police sport body cams, Big Island lava recovery now has $670M price tag, politics continue after primary election, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Orchids on display at Hilo show ©2018 All Hawaii News

Last year was the best year in a decade for Hawaii flower and landscape plant farmers, according to a recent report. The industry generated $77.6 million in sales, which was up 4 percent from $74.5 million in 2016 and was the highest take since $94.7 million in 2008. Star-Advertiser.

Early-voting trends weigh on future of all-mail ballots. KHON2.

Has Carpenters Union Lost Some Of Its Political Muscle? Its super PACs have spent big money in recent elections, but its anointed candidates often lose. The latest example: Colleen Hanabusa. Civil Beat.

Republican candidate for lieutenant governor says her running mate should apologize. The winner of the primary to run as her lieutenant governor —Marissa Kerns — is urging Tupola to say she's sorry about voting with the Democratic majority on some issues. Hawaii News Now.

Name Recognition, Blank Votes Dominate OHA Races. Ten candidates are still in the running for five seats on the OHA Board of Trustees. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii officially drops case against President Trump's travel ban. Attorneys representing Hawaii had been fighting the president's travel bans in court since early 2017, and in June, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the president. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii protesters return to Chicago streets in ongoing 'aloha poke' saga. Protests continue against Chicago-based Aloha Poke Company, with the latest happening Monday in the Windy City. Hawaii News Now.

Crossing America In The Hunt For New Teachers. Hawaii school officials have a new strategy for filling teacher vacancies: Bring principals along on mainland recruitment trips. Civil Beat.

HDOT Saves Millions Refinancing Revenue Bonds. In a move that will generate $27 million of savings for the Airports Division over the next 16 years, the Hawaii Department of Transportation has successfully refinanced $245 million of outstanding revenue bonds. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Airlines has launched an all-cargo neighbor island service that will bring it closer to its roots while expanding its shipping operations throughout the state and beyond. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HPD begins using body cameras on officers. Body cameras became part of the uniform for about 30 downtown Honolulu and Chinatown patrol officers Monday as the Honolulu Police Department officially joined the ranks of other large American cities where cameras are used in an effort to be more transparent in interactions with the public. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police issued the first set of body cameras to 35 officers Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Department starts roll out of body cameras. KHON2.

The trial is set for a Honolulu police officer who has been charged with multiple counts of abuse involving a family member. Star-Advertiser.

A Honolulu City Council committee Monday advanced a plan for a 400-foot tower fronting Ala Moana Center despite an in-person plea by Mayor Kirk Caldwell to hold off to allow city officials to keep open the option of using the location for a transit hub and possible path for rail to UH Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

Can The World’s Largest Law Firm Practice In Hawaii? A Honolulu lawyer wants to block the merger of one of the state’s most prominent law firms with a giant multinational. Civil Beat.

UH Manoa students start moving into dorms this week. Expect traffic delays around the UH Manoa campus this week, as nearly 3,500 students move into campus residence halls from August 14-17. KHON2.

State officials assured the public that the slope between the two Pali tunnels is now stable after a rockfall during the peak, morning commute hours Monday damaged several vehicles in the highway’s Honolulu­-bound lanes. Star-Advertiser.

Chick-fil-A registers to do business in Hawaii. The company said it plans to open the Aloha State’s first Chick-fil-A on Oahu and, like all Chick-fil-A restaurants, it will be owned and operated by a local resident. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County request for $670 million detailed. Hawaii County’s draft recovery plan to cope with the May 3 lava flow includes a lump sum of $196 million to buy property or compensate landowners in the most risky areas in what is known as Lava Zone 1, according to a document detailing the plan. Star-Advertiser.

The Big Island, especially West Hawaii and some areas in Puna, preferred U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa over incumbent Gov. David Ige in Saturday’s Democratic primary election. A precinct-by-precinct analysis of Big Island votes showed, at least this election, the votes pretty much followed the money. West Hawaii Today.

Newly Elected Council Members Face A County In Turmoil. Most of the leadership lineup is set after the primary, and big challenges lie ahead in dealing with the volcanic eruption. Civil Beat.

Pohoiki boat ramp ‘totally blocked by sandbar’. Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea sulfur dioxide emissions hit lowest levels since 2008. Hawaii News Now.

It’s been a year since Hawaii’s first legal sale of marijuana and nearly two decades since the state approved the drug for medical use, and still, no retail dispensaries have started selling on the Big Island. Associated Press.

Medical Marijuana Dispensary to Open Soon. Big Island Now.

Waikoloa Special Forces soldier killed in Afghanistan. One of Hawaii Island’s own, Sgt. 1st Class Reymund R. Transfiguracion, died Sunday from wounds he suffered five days before while serving his country in Helmand province, Afghanistan. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Finalists for Maui Fire Chief Narrowed to Four. Fire finalists under consideration by the commission include Chief David Thyne, Capt. Kaulana Kino, Chief Lionel Montalvo and Capt. Guy Danley. Maui Now.

West Maui Hospital group seeks partner. Some local officials are wondering if the focus of the whole project should change. Maui News.

Tropic Care no-cost health services reporting for duty. This military training exercise is providing medical, dental, vision care across the county — but it ends Sunday. Maui News.

A Hawaiian Airlines flight to San Francisco from Kahului turned back to Honolulu on Saturday because of a passenger. Star-Advertiser.


Kauai

Kauai County unveils plans to repair flood-ravaged areas near iconic Hanalei pier. On Kauai, its been almost four months since historic flooding devastated parts of the island. Hawaii News Now.

The state Commission on Water Resource Management is going to visit a few different streams and hydropower plants on Kauai Aug. 20. Garden Island.

Deadline nears to seek disaster help. Kauai County and the City and County of Honolulu residents with losses as a result of April’s storms have through Aug. 27 to register for disaster assistance with FEMA. Garden Island.

The U.S. Postal Service will commemorate Thursday its latest ‘Forever stamp’ depicting Kauai’s picturesque Na Pali coast. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates make last-minute pitches ahead of Saturday primary, tax breaks for accessory dwelling units, Land Board member contacted TMT judge, taro shortage looms following Kauai floods, no swag at Maui Jim invitational, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

No vote no grumble file photo

Candidates running in this year’s primary made their final pitches to voters this week ahead of election day on Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

In the final days before Saturday's primary election, candidates are trying to get a little creative to get attention from voters. Hawaii News Now.

Primary settles most races in Democrat dominated Hawaii. That's because the Democratic Party continues to overwhelmingly dominate Hawaii politics. The Republican Party isn't even fielding candidates in most state legislative districts. Associated Press.

Democratic Gubernatorial Candidates Sign Wave to the Finish Line. Precinct voting sites are due to open Saturday and the Democratic contenders for Governor are making their final push to the finish line. Hawaii Public Radio.

False missile alert plays key role in Hawaii governor race. Hawaii Gov. David Ige wants voters to look at his four years of accomplishments, including his handling of Big Island’s erupting volcano, as reasons to give him a second term. But U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, his main opponent in Saturday’s Democratic primary in the heavily blue state, wants voters to look at 38 minutes in January as reason enough to send Ige packing. Associated Press.

Wannabe voters for the first time will be able to register to vote — and vote — on the same day at all 235 polling places across the islands Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

It Looks Like Voter Turnout Will Be As Low As Ever For Saturday’s Primary. The pattern of absentee voting is similar to the 2016 primary, which ended up having the lowest turnout in state history. Civil Beat.

Rising Democratic star rallies for isle candidate. The special guest, and a major draw, was Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an emerging progressive leader in the Democratic Party, who flew into Honolulu to lend some last-minute support to Rep. Kaniela Ing’s campaign. Star-Advertiser.

Ocasio-Cortez Brings Her Star Power To Hawaii To Boost Kaniela Ing. The democratic socialist who recently scored a big upset in New York appears at a rally for Ing’s congressional candidacy. Civil Beat.

Congressional candidate Kaniela Ing gains support from rising Democratic star. Hawaii News Now.

What's at Stake in the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Race? While a lot of attention is focused on the Governor’s race, there’s a lot at stake for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs as well. Hawaii Public Radio.

Take The Civil Beat 2018 Primary Election Quiz. Think you’re a political whiz? Test your knowledge of top candidates running for office in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

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Health Department to begin enforcing new food handler certification rule. Section 11-50-20(c), Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR), requires that the person in charge of a food establishment during normal work hours (including during food preparation) complete training in proper food handling in order to obtain certification. KHON2.

The former Love’s Bakery in Kalihi, a billion-dollar Maui hotel and about 1,500 rental homes in Ewa Beach have put Hawaii commercial real estate sales this year on a blistering pace that already has topped last year’s total, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii to receive funding to remove more than a ton of debris from coastlines. NOAA will give $231, 660 to Hawaii Wildlife Fund for the project to remove debris from the coastlines of Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Lanai. KHON2.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will award more than $230,000 to the Hawaii Wildlife Fund to remove 112 metric tons of abandoned fishing gear and marine debris from the coastlines of the Big Island, Kauai, Maui and Lanai. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The state Office of Election said around 400 volunteers are still needed for polling sites across Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu homeowners who want to build accessory dwelling units would get annual tax breaks of about $200 under a bill proposed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

There could be more incentive for homeowners who build an accessory dwelling unit. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell introduced a new bill, that would give homeowners a $60,000 exemption on the value of their property. KHON2.

A state board gave the go-ahead Thursday for Howard Hughes Corp. to develop its sixth condominium tower at Ward Village in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Crews complete repairs to 16-inch water main break in Haleiwa. Crews completed repairs Friday to a 16-inch water main break that shut down a major thoroughfare in Haleiwa and resulted in a school closure. Hawaii News Now.

Despite the initial threat of a hurricane bringing wind and rain, marine wildlife artist Wyland finished restoring a whale mural late Thursday afternoon that originally was dedicated 23 years ago by the late actor Pat Morita. Star-Advertiser.

Saint Francis School will be led by a male head of school for the first time in its 94-year history following the ouster in June of Sister Joan of Arc Souza. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

A member of the Board of Land and Natural Resources who supports the Thirty Meter Telescope tried to contact state Supreme Court Justice Michael Wilson in violation of court rules. Star-Advertiser.

PGV to remain offline for at least 18 months. Ormat Technologies, owners of Puna Geothermal Venture, revealed in a Wednesday earnings call that reopening the power plant would take at least 18 months. Tribune-Herald.

A new restriction is in place for Hawaii Community Correctional Center inmate releases as Public Safety officials probe a July blunder that resulted in an accused murderer being erroneously released into the community. West Hawaii Today.

Aquarium fish industry says no significant impact in resuming netting. West Hawaii Today.

Queen Kaahumanu Highway Widening Celebrated In Kona. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Ethics board warns against accepting tournament gifts. For years swag from the Maui Jim Maui Invitational basketball tourney has been given to county officials. Maui News.

Maui ethics board warns against accepting tournament gifts. The Maui ethics board is advising county employees and elected officials to not accept swag or tickets from college basketball tournament officials, warning the gifts could be seen as intent to influence or reward in the performance of their official duties. Associated Press.

C-SPAN Bus Visits Maui August 21-23. C-SPAN, the Washington, D.C.-based public affairs network, in coordination with Spectrum, is heading to Hawaii August 15-25 as the next leg of the network’s 14-month 50 Capitals Tour. Maui Now.

Kauai

Early voting polls closed at 4 p.m., but voters still have an opportunity to cast their ballots Saturday. This election will decide which two Kauai mayoral candidates will move on to November’s general election. It will also decide the 14 council candidates who advance. Garden Island.

Could Hawaii face a taro shortage? Farms still fighting after April's floods. Taro farms along the North Shore of Kauai still have not recovered from the record rainfall and flooding back in April. Their setbacks could lead to a state-wide taro shortage. KITV.

Community cats are next in line for sterilization as September draws closer and with it the next step in the Animal Balance FIX Kauai project. Garden Island.

#BoycottHawaii trending on Twitter, gay tourism study released, state could be dinged by Trump budget, Honolulu rail spared, voter turnout lowest in nation, police set to test body cams, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii pool party at Kona resort © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii won in court over the travel ban Wednesday but found itself in the midst of a social media firestorm Thursday as #BoycottHawaii went viral on President Donald Trump’s favorite platform, Twitter. Star-Advertiser.

After a federal judge in Hawaii blocked President Trump’s revised travel ban Wednesday, Trump supporters took to Twitter to call for a boycott of all things Hawaii. Civil Beat.

#BoycottHawaii is a hashtag that’s currently trending on Twitter after a federal judge in Hawaii blocked President Donald Trump’s revised travel ban. KHON2.

Derrick Watson: An Apolitical Judge Caught In A Partisan Firestorm. Acquaintances call the federal judge from Honolulu reserved and unemotional. But he’s under attack from the president and his supporters. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is bringing the preferences, sentiments and profiles of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender travelers out of the closet with the Thursday release of the state’s first commissioned studies for this niche market. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's airline industry saw gains in 2016 due to the addition of new routes, though there are huge market opportunities from Asia and Japan, according to independent airline consultancy Ailevon Pacific. Pacific Business News.

New air service to Hawaii in 2017 is expected to bolster Hawaii’s economy by millions of dollars and help the state reach a sixth straight year of record-setting tourism performance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii would stand to lose tens of millions of federal dollars annually that support services for the poor, affordable housing, the environment, local arts and media organizations under President Trump’s 2018 budget outline for discretionary spending released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

President's budget proposal includes significant cuts to Hawaii programs, services. Hawaii News Now.

Trump’s draft budget still includes Honolulu’s rail funds. KITV.

At least 6,000 Hawaii students — including more than 1,000 on the Big Island — could be without after-school care if President Donald Trump’s proposed 2018 fiscal budget were to take effect as is. Tribune-Herald.

The East-West Center is listed among the Trump administration’s programs that would be eliminated under the president’s proposed budget cuts. Pacific Business News.

How Trump’s proposed budget could affect agencies, programs in Hawaii. KHON2.

For the fifth presidential election in a row, Hawaii had the lowest voter turnout rate in the nation, with only 43 percent of eligible voters casting ballots, according to a study. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers: Mail-in voting can improve Hawaii’s low voter turnout. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds of people with developmental disabilities thronged the Capitol on Thursday to celebrate 30 years of progress toward self-determination and to push for adequate funding. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Air Force this week hosted allies and partners in Hawaii for a symposium on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which can sneak undetected behind enemy radar. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu rail board approved nearly $15 million in additional change orders Thursday — the latest tranche of money to help cover changes to construction contracts that project leaders have said the city issued prematurely. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department hopes to have patrol officers in at least one of its districts equipped with body cameras by the end of the year under a pilot project, HPD officials told the City Council Budget Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

A Kakaako street will be closed Saturday as the city begins construction of a new protected bike lane. Hawaii News Now.

Nineteen-year-old Christian Gutierrez, one of three people charged with slaughtering Laysan albatrossess at Kaena Point in 2015, agreed to a plea deal Thursday in Circuit Court. Civil Beat.

The Grand Islander, a 38-story Hawaii time-share property by Hilton Grand Vacations, is at 99 percent occupancy just two weeks after opening in Waikiki. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Much of the Akaka Falls State Park trail system remains closed to visitors until further notice. The upper portion of the trail between the Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls overlooks was damaged accidentally in February during the removal of trees. Tribune-Herald.

Rain and snowfall continue to replenish Lake Waiau, keeping the alpine lake that sits some 13,000 feet above sea-level atop Mauna Kea nearly full or full for more than two years. West Hawaii Today.

An endangered Hawaiian monk seal has died after wandering into a net pen and becoming trapped at a fish farm that was partially funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Hawaii. Associated Press.

West Hawaii Today senior reporter Nancy Cook Lauer earned the Big Island Press Club’s Torch of Light award for her work on breaking the story surrounding former-Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi’s use of a county-issued pCard. West Hawaii Today.

Press Release: The Big Island Press Club presented its annual Torch of Light Award to reporter Nancy Cook Lauer for shining a light on a credit card scandal involving former Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi, who received the group’s Lava Tube dishonor award for keeping the public in the dark.

Maui

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission’s public hearing on 113.5 percent sewer rate increases for 880 residential, business and government customers in Pukalani will begin at 6 p.m. today in Pukalani Elementary School’s cafeteria. Maui News.

The developer of a proposed project below Wailuku Heights that called for 147 residential lots, 450 multifamily units, a park and commercial area has nixed the project, according to a filing with the state Land Use Commission. Maui News.

Almost 280 people live in the Front Street Apartments, an affordable housing complex in Lahaina on Maui’s western shore. In two and a half years, their rents will convert to market rates if state lawmakers don’t take action to keep the 142 units affordable. Civil Beat.

Waiehu Golf Course Pro Shop co-owner Catherine Cordeiro holds a stack of petitions against Mayor Alan Arakawa’s proposal to shut down the municipal course. Maui News.

State House budget approved; moves to Senate for review. Proposed funding for Maui County airport improvements, ag park, flood damage included. Maui News.

Kauai

Fixing roads, freezing county vacancies, raising property taxes and establishing a special reserve fund are some of Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr.’s goals for the coming fiscal year. Garden Island.

Kauai residents are a step closer to being able to legally access an area in Koloa to get to the shoreline. Garden Island.

Award-winning documentary features pesticide use on Kauai. Garden Island.

Seven aircraft tour companies on Kauai are staffing a help line available for the public to report complaints about low-flying aircraft and noise issues relating to air tour operators. Garden Island.

A new study provided the first rigorous population estimate of an endangered bird species found only on Kauai. Garden Island.

HNL ranks high for airports, Oahu jail could cost $650M, University of Hawaii wants extra $29M, Maui committee gives nod to accessory dwelling units, Kaui General Plan unveiling, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu International Airport © 2016 All Hawaii News

Honolulu Airport is ranked the fifth-best U.S. airport, according to a new study by ThePointsGuy.com. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's very own Honolulu International Airport lands a top 5 spot as one of the best airports in the nation. KITV.

The University of Hawaii plans to ask the Legislature for an extra $29 million for operations next academic year, including additional funds for the UH Cancer Center, initiatives around boosting graduation rates and research activities, and salary increases for graduate assistants. Star-Advertiser.

Clinton And Trump Supporters Make Some Noise In Hawaii. The state campaigns intensify their get-out-the-vote efforts as the polls tighten and Election Day approaches. Civil Beat.

A lack of inspectors. A whole sector unregulated. A long wait to license more facilities. Those are just some of the problems plaguing long-term care in Hawaii’s long-term care industry, and it could be putting Hawaii’s kupuna at risk. KHON2.

If you’ve purchased a property anywhere in Hawaii that’s been through a non-judicial foreclosure, you may have acquired considerably less than you bargained for — or potentially nothing at all. West Hawaii Today.

Hawai‘i’s Solar Customers: Left in the Dark? Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Bill would require office buildings to offer shower facilities for biking workers. Hawaii News Now.

It’s been more than a year since the Hawaii Department of Health urged developer Forest City Residential Management to test the soil near homes on Marine Corps Base Hawaii on windward Oahu for possible pesticide contamination. The soil sampling still hasn’t happened. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation reported Thursday that it received $55.1 million in general excise and use tax surcharge revenue for the third quarter. Pacific Business News.

A Schofield Barracks soldier died Thursday as a result of injuries from a training accident in the Kahuku area as part of Lightning Forge, one of the 25th Infantry Division’s biggest exercises, the Army said. Star-Advertiser.

OCCC Replacement: $650M? The State is in the initial stages of studies and plans to build a new jail in Honolulu.  But before it’s fully funded, a task force is studying if a new facility is needed. Hawaii Public Radio.

The number of local high school graduates who enrolled at the University of Hawaii at Manoa jumped 12 percent this fall from last year, reversing a downward trend of the previous three years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines announced Thursday that it will resume service to Kapalua Airport in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

The city says it will begin fining the Haleiwa Beach House restaurant $250 a day, claiming that it needed a permit to make improvements and pave its parking lot. But the restaurant's owner contends he already has the permits and is following the law. Hawaii News Now.

For the first time in more than a decade, the Department of Land and Natural Resources is adding a new law enforcement boat to its fleet. KITV.

Hawaii

The state has acquired two new law enforcement vessels for the Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement. One of the Sea Blade 23 vessels will be based on Oahu and the other in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island sweet potato growers are struggling to protect their crops from an invasive insect that makes harvests unmarketable. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists will mix biology and geology this month inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as they help NASA get ready for an eventual manned mission to Mars. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The affordable accessory dwelling bill, which would permit ʻohana units on certain smaller lots, gained unanimous committee support and now heads to the full council for first reading, Planning Committee Chair Don Couch announced today. Maui Now.

Maui County Council Member Elle Cochran said Wednesday that she plans to offer an amendment to a proposed “affordable accessory dwellings” bill that would prohibit their use as short-term rentals or bed-and-breakfast operations. Maui News.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is awaiting approval of plans to repair the eroded paths of the Waihee Ridge Trail, a popular hike that residents and visitors have expressed concern about in recent months. Maui News.

Incumbents in Maui County state House seats enjoyed a significant advantage — as usually is the case — in fundraising to defend their seats against challengers. Maui News.

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, which is slated to take over operations of Maui Memorial Medical Center on July 1, has begun helping to fill staff shortages in the transition by appointing an orthopedic surgeon and a new interim director of trauma surgery, Kaiser and hospital officials said. Maui News.

Maui Sugar: End of an Era – Part 2. Maui Now.


Kauai

Hawaii’s voter turnout is among the worst in the nation, according to a study conducted by WalletHub, but Kauai voters have been coming out early and often for early registration and same-day voting. Garden Island.

Island’s road map for the future is here. General Plan update draft to be released today. Garden Island.

As part of its sustainability efforts, the County of Kauai installed three water-bottle fillers at the Lihue Civic Center. Garden Island.

Molokai

Agriculture and unemployment are nearly inseparable for Molokai, considering that its largest employers are biotech companies Monsanto and Mycogen. Maui News.