Hawaii again ranked worst state for drivers, ambitious preschool plan to be unveiled today, Green backs off from using rainy day fund for climate change initiative, back pay for vaccine-refusers? More news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Once again, Hawaii has been ranked the worst state to drive in.  Researchers compared all 50 states across 31 key metrics, including average gas prices to rush-hour traffic congestion to road quality. Hawaii News Now.

State to unveil ambitious preschool plan for Hawaii. After decades of urgent calls for a statewide preschool system, a public- private plan finally is being launched to create 465 classrooms so that all Hawaii 3- and 4-year-olds can get access to preschool by 2032, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and community leaders are set to announce today. Star-Advertiser.

Green tweaks climate plan, still plans $100M. The money will come from state general funds, which will have to be approved by the Legislature, modifying Green’s previous plan to use $100 million from the state’s rainy day fund to help mitigate climate change. Star-Advertiser.

Renewable Energy Projects Are Back On Track After Pandemic Lull. Supply chain challenges are easing, allowing Hawaii utilities to step up efforts to go green by 2045. Civil Beat.

Hawaii bill proposed to offer backpay to those terminated over vaccine mandates. If passed, Bill 52 would require state agencies to offer those employees full back pay and/or the options to be put back in their original position. KITV4.

Congressman Worries Wespac Proposal Is A Gateway To Commercial Fishing In Monument. Prominent Native Hawaiian practitioners and U.S. Rep. Ed Case are pushing back against new proposals from the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, saying such rules could open the waters protected in Pahahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

California’s extreme weather impacts Hawaii’s imports. The rain has been non-stop for the Golden State; and even from thousands of miles away, Hawaii vendors are concerned as some fresh produce become harder to find, coupled with shipment delays.  KHON2.

Oahu

Environmental activists speak out on EPA’s proposed Red Hill consent order. On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency will hold a public meeting on its proposed consent order which would require the Navy to safely defuel and close the Red Hill facility and properly operate and maintain its Pearl Harbor drinking water system.  Hawaii News Now.

Eternal Flame for Hawaii’s veterans burns again. The state’s Eternal Flame War Memorial, which was erected to honor Hawaii residents who have served in the armed forces, is burning once again after being snuffed out for weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Straub Medical Center nurses ratify new 3-year contract. The nurses at Straub Medical Center have voted to accept a new three-year contract after working without one since November. Star-Advertiser.

Culture and conservation at forefront of Turtle Bay Resort’s renovation. Much has changed as the resort — now owned by BRE Hotels &Resorts and managed by Benchmark Resorts &Hotels — moves past its first 50 years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii needle exchanges at record high. The nonprofit Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center reported a record number of needle syringe exchanges in Hawaii County and the state in 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Renovation planned for Kona hotel. Just over a year after purchasing the 123-room Kona Bay Hotel  for $21 million, owner 12th and “A” Hotel Partners LP is seeking a design review for plans to jazz up the 60-year-old site in Kailua Village and to rebrand it as a Hampton Inn by Hilton. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

State Reps from Maui County hold key positions in 2023 legislative session. All six of Maui County’s State Representatives hold leadership roles in six different House Committees for the 2023 legislative session. Maui Now.

McCall, Dudoit appointed to head Parks and Recreation Department. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen has appointed Patrick McCall and Shane Dudoit to serve as director and deputy director, respectively, of the Department of Parks and Recreation.  Maui News.

On approach to Molokaʻi Airport, small plane crashes with two aboard. A single-engine Cessna 208 crashed while on approach to Molokaʻi Airport in Hoʻolehua at around 5 a.m. on Jan. 16. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Kauai

Kaua‘i legislators will lead at the statehouse this year.  For a small island, Kaua‘i will hold a large degree of influence over the state Legislature this session. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Green faces tough Legislature, government closed today for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, crowds return to Chinatown for new year festivities, bag limits increased for Puna pig hunters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Oahu PC:Melissa Chang via Facebook

Hawaii Lawmakers Are Usually a Cautious Bunch, But The New Governor Wants Action. Emboldened lawmakers who are accustomed to the unassuming style of former Gov. David Ige are about to mix it up with a new governor known for making his pitches directly to the public. Gov. Josh Green is no Ige, and he appears to be already advancing his political agenda without worrying too much about what the other players think. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Legislature already testing Gov. Josh Green’s agenda. The relationship between the state Legislature and new Gov. Josh Green’s administration is off to a bumpy start even before the 32nd legislative session begins Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii housing woes top agenda as lawmakers return next week. Affordable housing, expanding pre-K education and addressing corruption are top of the agenda as Hawaii lawmakers return to the state Capitol for opening session Wednesday. Associated Press. Maui Now.

Hawai‘i Sen. Gabbard to push for Green Amendment. State Sen. Mike Gabbard announced plans to introduce a proposed constitutional amendment that would add environmental rights to the state’s Bill of Rights this legislative session beginning Wednesday. Garden Island.

Planned bill would ban TikTok app on state-issued devices.  State Rep. Gene Ward plans to introduce a bill in the upcoming legislative session to prohibit the wildly popular TikTok app from state-issued devices, part of a national push intended to prevent breaches of sensitive information to China. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: More Transparency In The Hawaii Legislature? It Won't Be Easy. A review of candidates answers to Civil Beat's Q&As this past election show lawmakers weren't all that enthused about changing the way business is done at the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Rocks Or Glass? Hawaii Weighs Alternatives To Water In Capitol Pools. The state Department of Accounting and General Services is asking lawmakers for $33.5 million for the pool rehabilitation project. Civil Beat.

Bounty offered for derelict fishing gear. Under a new program launched by Hawaii Pacific University, eligible commercial fishers can be paid for removing this derelict fishing gear Opens in a new tab — basically, some of the most harmful litter of the seas — from the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

What’s open, closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is this Monday and various places will be closed. Here is everything you need to know about the departments and services that will be affected. KHON2.

Oahu

Chinese New Year festivities return to Chinatown, boosting culture and commerce. It’s not just a celebration for Chinese New Year, it’s a long-awaited restart in Chinatown. Fireworks, the beat of the drums and lion dances are what many Chinatown businesses have been waiting to hear and see for the last three years. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

New Safe and Sound Waikiki program has over 450 arrests so far. Safe and Sound Waikiki has referred 456 arrests to city prosecutors in its first four months — progress that has been overshadowed by a recent series of violent crimes. Star-Advertiser.

City Council considers tougher ‘sit-lie’ enforcement near Oahu schools. A story told of parents dropping their children off at Waipahu Elementary School only to be threatened by a knife-wielding couple living at a homeless encampment next to the campus has prompted one elected official to seek even greater enforcement of the city’s controversial “sit-lie” ordinances. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health no longer wants 2 Oahu hospitals.  An effort to transfer two Oahu hospitals to the state Department of Health to help fill the island’s desperate need for treatment options for residents suffering from mental health and substance abuse problems is on the brink of failing, with DOH officials now saying it would be cumbersome and cost too much. Star-Advertiser.

2 high-profile attorneys for alleged crime boss Mike Miske could be disqualified from murder case. A high-profile attorney representing alleged crime boss Mike Miske has asked to withdraw from the case that accuses the Honolulu businessman of murder, kidnapping, racketeering and other crimes. Hawaii News Now.

New central Oʻahu solar and battery farm said to benefit 7,600 homes. The state’s latest solar farm has been completed in Central Oʻahu. Clearway Energy Group announced Thursday that its 36-megawatt solar farm in Waiawa is ready for commercial operations.  Hawaii Public Radio. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lawmakers share priorities: Next session of the state Legislature convenes this week. State lawmakers who represent the Big Island plan to address affordable housing, Hilo Medical Center’s expansion, a Banyan Drive revitalization, the General Excise Tax, marijuana and other topics during the legislative session that starts Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Name change raises eyebrows: Captain Cook Fire Station will be renamed the Kealakekua Fire Station without public input. The official change of the station’s name, which also appears on the fire trucks and ambulances it houses, comes without public input, a move that elected and other county officials say is permitted, but has raised eyebrows among some community members, including a former councilwoman and two lawyers familiar with council and government procedure. West Hawaii Today.

Input sought on zoning codes: Four open houses scheduled this week. Big Island residents are encouraged to attend a pair of public meetings this week to discuss updates to Hawaii County’s zoning and subdivision codes. Tribune-Herald.

‘Shared solar’ program could benefit 1,500 households.  As many as 1,500 Big Island households could receive credits to lower their energy bills through an effort to develop solar installations in Naalehu and North Kona. Tribune-Herald.

BLNR loosens pig hunting restrictions in 3 Puna forests.  Hunters will be able to take more feral pigs more frequently in certain Puna forest reserves under new regulations passed Friday by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

As session nears, Maui lawmakers mixed over Gov. Green’s proposals. As Maui County’s state lawmakers head into the new legislative session on Wednesday, some already have mixed feelings about the governor’s proposals for a possible tax rebate for middle- and low-income families along with eliminating the general excise tax on food and some medicine.  Maui News.

Opening of Kulanihako‘i High School delayed; no date given. The opening of Kulanihako’i High School has been pushed back from its tentatively scheduled date of Jan. 18, the state Department of Education announced Friday afternoon. Maui News. Hawaii News Now.

State looking into toxic chemicals in soil at Maui airport.  A group of toxic chemicals found in firefighting foam has been detected in soil at Kahului Airport and in the groundwater below, according to the state Department of Transportation, with testing for the substances underway at other airports across the state. Star-Advertiser.

US military returns land on Molokai to Hawaii. The U.S. military and Hawaii officials said Friday the Air Force has returned 363 acres it leased on Molokai Island to the Department of Hawaiian Homelands, opening the possibility Native Hawaiians could move onto the land. West Hawaii Today. Maui News.

Rally speaks out against proposed mosquito release on Maui to battle avian malaria.  A sign waving rally was held Saturday in Kahului, asking the state to complete a full Environmental Impact Statement for their planned “Mosquito Control Research Using Wolbachia-based Incompatible Insect Technique” project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Land Board is sued over permits for former Coco Palms site.  A civil complaint recently filed by a community group against the state Land Board claims the board failed to comply with environmental review law and violated public-trust duties when it recently granted annual revocable permits to a defunct company to build a new hotel at the former Coco Palms Resort property on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Brue Baukol lays out plans for 18,000 acres of newly acquired Kaua‘i land.  With the exchange of more than $250 million, Colorado-based investment firm Brue Baukol Capital Group became Kaua‘i’s third-largest private landowner in June 2022. Garden Island.

Legislative panels question Land Board appointee, University of Hawaii admins, eggflation benefits local producers, Bishop Museum fires execs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green’s controversial pick to head Land Board goes before lawmakers to make her case. Members of the Senate Ways and Means and Water and Land committees questioned Dawn Chang about the Green Administration’s plan to invest $100 million in climate change initiatives, vacancies in the DLNR’s enforcement division and enforcement actions in its Boating Division. Hawaii News Now.

Senators take UH to task over spending. The University of Hawaii, already smarting from Gov. Josh Green’s changes to its requests to increase its biennial budgets, got no sympathy from state senators demanding more accountability on UH spending and leadership during a contentious meeting Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Could Hawaiʻi feasibly repeal its general excise tax on food and medicine? Gov. Josh Green has pledged to repeal the GET on food and some medicines in campaign promises and during his inaugural speech, but some are critiquing the choice — including influential lawmakers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Medical cannabis rules in Hawaii might be relaxed.  Armed with a long-awaited task force report, state lawmakers are expected to take up measures this year that would add protections and expand access to medical cannabis, including a bill that would require health care providers to allow terminally ill patients to smoke or ingest the drug at their facilities and a bill that would give registered medical cannabis users job protections. Star-Advertiser.

Local egg farmers reaping the benefits of higher-priced mainland eggs. While prices are surging for mainland eggs, more people are now buying local. An Avian flu outbreak on the mainland has created a level playing field for local egg farms. KITV4.

Still some sticker shock at isle grocers, even with inflation cooling. Anyone who’s gone grocery shopping lately knows there’s still a lot of sticker shock going on — with many examples on the neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s Farms Are Small And Hard To Sustain. Can Tax Incentives Help? A suite of bills to boost agriculture is set to be introduced this coming legislative session with the goal of bringing Hawaii closer to other states when it comes to helping farmers. Civil Beat.

False missile alert rattled Hawaii nerves 5 years ago.  The episode spread not only panic, but ultimately anger across the islands. State officials apologized and promised a full review. State and federal hearings and multiple investigations and reports criticized HI-EMA and recommended changes. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

3 Bishop Museum executives are fired by board.  Bishop Museum is looking for its fourth CEO in the past seven years after the board of directors voted unanimously Wednesday to fire three top executives following a six-month probe into the work environment at the 15-acre campus in Kalihi. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Honolulu buys 48 vans for TheHandi-Van fleet. The City and County of Honolulu announced the purchase of 48 more gas-powered vans for TheHandi-Van, the city’s under­resourced paratransit service, that should arrive in August. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Task force: State has lost battle to eradicate coconut rhinoceros beetle on Oahu. The head of the state’s Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Task Force says the state has lost the battle to eradicate the pests on Oahu ― and is now moving resources toward preventing its spread to other islands. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Zoo euthanizes 2 Sumatran tigers with kidney disease. The City and County of Honolulu today said that it had euthanized Seattle, a 15-year-old male, on Jan. 5 and Chrissie, a 23-year-old female, on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Hawaii Island

New Mauna Kea Board Asks Legislature To Approve $28M For Transition. The panel is gearing up to assume control of the mountain from the University of Hawaii in 2028, but it’s just getting started. Civil Beat.

Banyan Tree Wasp Infestation Highlights Urban Decay In Hilo Waterfront. The plight of some 50 banyan trees near downtown Hilo puts a spotlight on Banyan Drive’s deeper, longstanding troubles. Civil Beat.

Speed limit on 5.5-mile stretch of Volcano Road to be reduced to 35 mph. The speed limit on Volcano Road (Route 11) between South Road and Pszyk Road, and through Kurtistown and Mountain View in East Hawaiʻi, will be reduced to 35 mph in both directions, announced the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation. Big Island Now. Star-Advertiser.

Input wanted for skate park. The Hawaii County Parks and Recreation in January 2022 announced plans to build the Hilo Skate Park with private partnerships and initial county funding for the planning process. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New Community Solar Projects Slated For Molokai Could Lower Bills. A pair of solar plus battery energy projects will move forward on Molokai, pending the approval of state utility regulators. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

DOE lacking Maui County approval to open new Kihei high school. A new $120-million high school for South Maui is scheduled to open next week. However, the state has yet to meet all the requirements. Hawaii News Now.

Blessing and unveiling held for 100-foot mural on Church Street in Wailuku. A blessing was held this week for a 100-foot mural titled “Mōhala I ka wai ka maka o ka pua,” translated as “Unfolded by the water are the faces of the flowers.” Maui Now.

Kauai

A Sweeping Plan To Reinvent Kauai’s Oldest Hospital Is ‘Getting Close To The Vision’. The projected $400 million project on the 34-acre property would upgrade the medical facility while creating a civic hub around schools, pubic safety and affordable housing. Civil Beat.

Plane lost power before Līhu‘e Airport crash. The revelation comes from a preliminary report filed by the National Transportation Safety Board, which states the plane’s pilot – reportedly a member of the Civil Air Patrol joined by his young son – described a lack of power to the control tower before his Beechcraft Model 77 Skipper descended into a fence at the edge of the airport property. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

Cayetano, super PAC fined over attack ads, crew, wreckage from Life Flight crash recovered, property tax breaks proposed for Oahu homeowners, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Commission Fines Cayetano Campaign, Super PAC Over Josh Green Attack Ads. The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission has fined both Vicky Cayetano’s campaign and super PAC Victory Calls over allegations of improper coordination between the candidate’s campaign and the independent expenditure political action committee. Cayetano denies coordinating with super PAC Victory Calls. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s Governor Vowed To Cut Homelessness. Will The Legislature Go Along? Gov. Josh Green has promised to prioritize the issue and included a request for more than $25 million to build housing and improve services in his budget proposal submitted to the 2023 Legislature, which will convene next week. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green proposes first biennial operating budget, requesting $36B for 2024-25 fiscal year. At the state capitol, Gov. Josh Green on Tuesday pushed his proposed biennial operating budget in front of the House Finance Committee. KITV4.

Green looking to jump-start Climate Impact Fund with $100M in state funding. During a briefing Tuesday, Green suggested a $50 visitor impact fee on those ages 12 and up. With an approximation of 8 to 10 million visitors annually, he said that could be an additional $600 million going into the fund. Hawaii Public Radio.

Push to legalize recreational cannabis underway in Hawaii. A recent local government-led task force report on legalizing adult recreational cannabis use is neither for nor against making such a change in Hawaii, but a concerted push has begun for the Legislature to do it this year. Star-Advertiser.

Bill aims at minimum wage tip credits to Hawaii workers. There’s a new proposal in the Hawaii State Senate that would take some wages away from workers who make tips. KHON2.

New state AG division dedicated to help combat human trafficking, raise awareness. The Special Investigation and Prosecution Division was created after funds were appropriated in 2022 by the Hawaiʻi Legislature. Kauai Now.

Crew, wreckage from Hawaii Life Flight crash recovered. A deep-water search operation has recovered the three-­member flight crew and wreckage of a Hawaii Life Flight medical transport plane that crashed into the ocean Dec. 15 off Maui near Kaupo, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Maui Now. Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant — the ‘Kraken’ — on isles’ radar.  The subvariant, which some scientists have nicknamed the “Kraken” due to its formidable growth advantage, has been detected in Honolulu County wastewater samples, potentially bringing another rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii COVID-19 positivity rate at 7.5%, 5 more deaths recorded. By island, there were 946 cases reported on Oahu, 152 on Hawaii Island, 164 on Maui, 51 on Kauai, seven on Molokai, and one on Lanai. Another 22 infections were reported for Hawaii residents out of state. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu

Tax breaks eyed to offset rising property values. Mayor Rick Blangiardi is considering tax credits or tax exemptions for Oahu homeowners shocked by increases in their real property tax assessments, which Blangiardi called “an aberration.” Star-Advertiser.

Why Honolulu Hale Keeps Stealing State Appointees To HART. The difficulty finding qualified volunteers to fill board seats is another sign of the chaos that has plagued the troubled rail project. Civil Beat.

Red Hill task force expands scope after toxic foam spill.  Joint Task Force Red Hill, the military organization tasked with defueling the massive fuel tanks at the Navy’s underground Red Hill fuel facility, has expanded its scope of operations after a spill of toxic firefighting foam in November.  Star-Advertiser.

Beach access barrier or erosion control effort? Makeshift North Shore beach fence spurs debate. Near the surf spot known as Gas Chambers, there’s a long line of sticks planted in the sand — a makeshift fence of sorts. Hawaii News Now.

Efforts underway to address worsening erosion on Kamehameha Highway. In 2020, the state Department of Transportation spent $2 million on emergency repairs to stabilize and support the ocean side of Kamehameha Highway after a section of road fell into the water. Hawaii News Now.

Council panel supports $619M tower in Moiliili.  A local developer aiming to build a 43-story, $619 million residential tower complex in Moiliili, which would house 1,005 moderately priced condominiums and be taller than any other building in its immediate vicinity, saw its project advance this week. Star-Advertiser.

Details announced for public memorial service for Princess Abigail Kawānanakoa. The Princess will lie in state in the Throne Room on Sunday, Jan. 22 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  

Hawaii Island

Burned body that of one-time award-winning coffee farmer.  A 59-year-old homeless woman police say burned to death Jan. 2 in a large banyan tree on Banyan Drive in Hilo was, in better times, an award-winning coffee farmer. Police identified the victim as Deborah Ann Cohn-Hoomalu of Hilo. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

New Hawaiʻi County Police Chief Moszkowicz Sworn In. A private swearing in ceremony for newly-appointed Police Chief Benjamin Moszkowicz was held livestreamed over social media Jan. 11. Big Island Video News.

County to open application process for rental assistance program. Applications for a state-funded rental assistance program will open next week for the first time in five years. Tribune-Herald.

Alii Drive road work continues. The southbound lane and sidewalks of Alii Drive in the heart of Kailua Village will remain closed through at least month’s end. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui’s Plan To Protect Cultural Sites Is In Limbo. The former mayor vetoed the bill on his last day in office and it’s now up to the Maui County Council to override the veto and get the plan back on track. Civil Beat.

Former Maui senator J. Kalani English has paid $75,000 of his $100,000 fine. English’s payment is part of $2.1M that U.S. Attorney’s Office collected in fiscal year 2022. Maui News.

Schools and MPD work on preventing tragedies. If an active shooter were on a Maui school campus, the school resource officer or the responding officer would “go directly to that threat,” and not have to wait for backup, a Maui Police Department sergeant told state lawmakers on Tuesday afternoon. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Council encourages hiring kama‘aina for leadership roles. In its first meeting of 2023, the Kaua‘i County Council passed a resolution encouraging hiring locals for top positions. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i police make strides in opening Lihu‘e KPAL facility. The Kaua‘i Police Department is nearing an agreement with the Philippine Cultural Center to lease nearly 3,000 square feet of space for keiki athletic programs. Garden Island.

Kauai County closing its COVID-19 testing site, mobile vans. The final day for testing at the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall will be Feb. 28. Hawaii News Now.

Senate panel grills Hawaiian Homes leaders over spending priorities, Green finds lack of legislative support for tax-cut plan, attorney general won't re-prosecute Mauna Kea protesters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

New Hawaiian Home Lands leader grilled over priorities to spend $600M.  Members of the Ways and Means Committee and Hawaiian Affairs Committee on Tuesday gave a sometimes scathing reaction to an agency budget presentation from new DHHL Director Ikaika Anderson flanked with support from longtime agency staff. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. 

DOE slow to assess schools’ vulnerabilities to violence. Even though school shootings and mass shootings nationwide have hit historic levels — with a record-high 51 school shootings that killed or injured 140 people in 2022 — fewer than half of Hawaii’s 258 public school campuses have been evaluated for vulnerabilities to targeted violence, and department officials say it will take three more years for them to finish. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Candidate Green promised dramatic tax reform. Now Gov. Green is seeking compromise. As a candidate, Gov. Josh Green repeatedly promised a dramatic tax reform ― eliminating the 4.5% excise tax on food and drugs. But after lawmakers have said that was probably unrealistic, he’s floating potential compromises. Hawaii News Now.

 ‘Where’s The Hammer?’ Hawaii Prosecutors Dodged Public Discipline For 40 Years Despite Misconduct. Prosecutors sometimes cross the line. But for a host of reasons, the Hawaii Supreme Court does not sanction them. Civil Beat.

Feds Collected $2 Million From Criminal, Civil Debtors Last Year. Hawaii’s U.S. Attorney’s office secured over $2 million owed in criminal and civil cases last year, U.S. Attorney Clare Connors announced on Tuesday. An additional $7.5 million was collected from the owners of the defunct Oahu Sugar Company due to historical pesticide contamination. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Applicants Sought For Elections Commission. Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is looking for qualified people to fill a seat on the state Elections Commission. The unexpired term of William Dean from the County of Hawaii will expire on June 30, 2024. Civil Beat.

Oahu

‘The Eddie’ a no-go as conditions change.  Organizers of the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational canceled today’s event due to changes in wind and swell conditions on Oahu’s North Shore. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.  Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu prosecuting attorney on balancing crime enforcement and outreach. Identifying crime and prosecuting criminals is only one part in working to make an area safer, according to Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Hospital Giant Reaches Tentative Deal With Nurses. Nurses at Straub Medical Center got a New Year’s gift this week in the form of a tentative agreement that union leaders say includes provisions that will make working easier for caregivers and provide better treatment for patients. But it remains to be seen whether the concessions will be enough to sway the 400-member union. Civil Beat.

Kakaako shoppers, businesses grapple with traffic ‘madness’ as road repairs continue. Businesses and consumers say the city’s sinkhole repairs in Kakaako and other road repair projects are turning the area into a hard-to-navigate maze. Hawaii News Now.

Red Hill moms demand congressional hearing on Navy’s fuel-tainted water. Two moms who were sickened during the Red Hill fuel-tainted water crisis more than a year ago are on Capitol Hill, demanding a congressional hearing on potential long-term health impacts. Hawaii News Now.

Death Penalty Phase Begins For Hawaii Prisoner In Arizona. Miti Maugaotega Jr. was convicted of murdering a fellow inmate in the Arizona prison where they were both being held. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Attorney general declines to re-prosecute 38 Mauna Kea activists. State Attorney General Anne Lopez is declining to re-prosecute the people — primarily Native Hawaiian activists — who were charged in 2019 for obstructing Mauna Kea Access Road while protesting the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Hilo siren taken offline after 2 false alarms. Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno confirmed Tuesday that one faulty siren — near the intersection of Kanoelehua Avenue and Banyan Drive, across from Ken’s House of Pancakes — was the cause of both incidents. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Affordable housing complex on schedule. Construction of the Hale Na Koa ‘O Hanakahi housing project began in November after years of planning, and will eventually offer 92 single-bedroom units of affordable housing for Big Island seniors on Kawili Street across from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. Tribune-Herald.

‘Perfect storm’ hits Kona coffee: Crop faces a ‘devastating’ drop in production, price hike. The combination of drought, coffee leaf rust fungus and the continued presence of the coffee berry borer — a beetle that infests and destroys coffee cherries on the tree — has created what the president of the Kona Coffee Farmers Association described as “a perfect storm” that resulted in a significant drop in coffee production. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

One of priciest home sales in Maui history, Mākena mansion sells for $32.76M. The 7,400-square-foot home known as “Mākena Modern” at 4572 Mākena Road was the highest listed property sale recorded on Maui, according to listing agent Chelsea Dimin of Compass.  Maui Now.

Training underway for humpback whale disentanglements. A team of highly trained state and federal individuals met up in December in waters off of Maui to fine tune their skills in humpback whale disentanglements.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i democratic party accepting applications for Jimmy Tokioka’s statehouse seat. The Democratic Party of Kaua‘i announced Monday night that it is accepting applications for the role vacated by longtime state Rep. Jimmy Tokioka, who recently accepted a job as state Department of Transportation Airports Division deputy director in the administration of new Gov. Josh Green. Garden Island.

Opponents Of West Kauai Energy Project Want More Environmental Scrutiny. The solar-charged hydro power concept would be the first of its kind in world. Civil Beat.

Green pledges $100M to fight climate change, 'monster' surf expected tonight, Ellison traffic ticket shows lack of preferential treatment, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Wolf moon ©2023 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green pledges $100M to fight climate change. Gov. Josh Green kicked off Hawaii’s Climate Action Week on Monday pledging to dedicate $100 million of the state’s $1.9 billion budget surplus to address climate change. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Pair of Hawaii lawmakers push for poker and sports betting. Reps. John Mizuno and Daniel Holt on Monday touted a plan to introduce a bill that would permit only two types of gambling, poker and sports betting, at one establishment on Oahu not at a hotel, under a state license regulated by a commission. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. KITV4.

Proposal would increase public funding for Hawaii campaigns. State Sen. Karl Rhoads plans to introduce legislation this year to help county, state and Office of Hawaiian Affairs candidates raise more campaign money through public funds to ease their reliance on lobbyists and private donors with the goal of promoting “clean elections.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

1st Native Hawaiian woman nominated to lead DLNR facing opposition. A petition has been started to oppose Gov. Josh Green's nominee, Dawn Chang, to head the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Chang is a former deputy attorney general for the department, and previously served on the state Land Use Commission. She also started a company called Ku’iwalu Consulting.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Agency Is Racing ‘Against The Clock’ To Build New Preschools. The School Facilities Authority says it needs help to meet a June 2024 deadline to build and renovate up to 200 preschool classrooms. Civil Beat.

‘Firework zones’ eyed following noisy, dangerous start to 2023. The state wants to work with the counties and first responders to establish “fireworks zones” in the wake of this year’s New Year’s celebrations, which resulted in a long list of injuries and one death. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Eddie Aikau surf contest set to begin Wednesday on Oahu. More than 20,000 people are likely to descend upon Waimea Bay on Wednesday as a giant North Shore swell is expected to allow “The Eddie” big-wave surf contest to run for only the 10th time in some 40 years. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Real property tax assessment appeals deadline draws near. The deadline to dispute your real property tax assessment is this Sunday, Jan. 15, but some said they have had issues getting assistance from the city. KHON2.

Hawaii Kids ‘Connect These Dots’ To Understand Climate Change. From public schools on the Westside to private schools in Honolulu, teachers are finding creative ways to educate — and empower — students facing the effects of a warming planet. Civil Beat.

Iolani Palace Is Preparing For Hawaiian Royal Heiress Kawananakoa To Lie In State. The public memorial event is expected to be held later this month. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

$50K grant allows for upgrades to a tiny home community in Kapolei. Nareit Hawaii awarded a $50,000 grant to U.S. Vets to pay for a new kitchen, secure storage spaces, private mailboxes and air conditioners in the shared facilities. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

COVID hospitalizations rise: HMC sees ‘typical bump’ in infections after holiday season. Over the holidays, Hilo Medical Center saw a bump in COVID-19 hospitalizations, increasing from a daily average of between five and seven patients to 18 patients on Monday. Tribune-Herald.

BLNR to consider bag limit increases for feral pigs. New hunting regulations that would double the amount of feral pigs a hunter could take each day in certain Puna forest reserves will once again be considered by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources Friday. Tribune-Herald.

Annual Point-In-Time Count slated Jan. 23 to 27.  The annual Point-In-Time Count will take place later this month on the Big Island with volunteers and advocates working to provide a snapshot of all those experiencing homelessness in the community. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council member: Body cam video of Larry Ellison traffic stop shows no one ‘above the law’. Billionaire Larry Ellison was pulled over last year for a variety of traffic violations on Lanai, the island he owns. Hawaii News Now.

Pending lawsuit over vote counting protocols keeps major Maui County Council seat vacant. It has been one week since Maui County Council members took the oath of office. However, one seat remains vacant because of a pending lawsuit. Hawaii News Now.

The Doobie Brothers’ 50th Anniversary Tour makes Maui stop, May 2. The Maui Arts & Cultural Center presents The Doobie Brothers in concert Tuesday, May 2 in the A&B Amphitheater & Yokouchi Pavilion. Maui Now. Maui News.

MEO Head Start application period for 2023-24 opens Feb. 1.  Maui Economic Opportunity’s Head Start, a 100% subsidized preschool program for low income families, will begin accepting applications for the 2023-24 school year beginning Feb. 1. Maui Now.

Kauai

Hawai‘i State Senator Mike Gabbard (D-20) will join the Kaua‘i Climate Action Form for its latest virtual monthly meeting, scheduled for this week. Gabbard, who is chairman of the Hawai‘i Senate Agriculture & Environmental Committee, will be joined by activist Maya van Rossum. Kauai Now.

Head of Ho‘ike Kaua‘i Community Television steps down after 22 years. After 22 years at the helm of Kaua‘i’s sole community TV station, J Robertson is stepping down as managing director of Ho‘ike Kaua‘i Community Television. Garden Island.

Hefty subsidies for public hospitals, man urinating at Kilauea eruption draws Native Hawaiian ire, affordable housing battles continue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hefty subsidies continue for Hawaii’s state-run hospitals. Top officials with the state agency that oversees many of Hawaii’s neighbor island hospitals and long-term care facilities say there’s no current push to privatize more of its facilities even though the private sector could operate them more cheaply and efficiently, easing the hefty subsidies provided by state taxpayers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Is Struggling To Meet A Deadline To Reduce Leased Office Space. Despite a new law mandating a 10% reduction by 2026, the amount of office space leased by the state has increased. Civil Beat.

Friends remember Danny Kaleikini, 85. Danny Kaleikini, the legendary entertainer who embodied the best of Hawaii, was being remembered throughout the islands for his immense talent as a singer, musician, actor and recording artist, and for his boundless devotion to spreading aloha worldwide. Star-Advertiser. Maui News. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu’s affordable housing disappearing prematurely. A state agency is looking to plug a leak in part of Honolulu’s affordable- housing market where subsidized condominiums have been converted to market-price sales or rentals despite a regulatory tool designed to defer such conversions. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa community split over plan for senior affordable rentals. Vocal opponents of a proposed 288-unit affordable rental project for seniors to be built on the edge of the nearly 190-year-old Manoa Chinese Cemetery in upper Manoa Valley have surfaced at recent community meetings and even launched an online petition that has collected more than 4,200 signatures to thwart the development within the affluent neighborhood in urban Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Health Department: ‘Forever chemicals’ detected in Leeward Oahu water system. Low levels of PFAS “forever chemicals” have been detected in a Leeward Oahu water system that serves about 217,000 individuals, the state Department of Health announced. Hawaii News Now.

City: Oahu’s digital parking meters will be free for at least 6 months. About 2,200 digital parking meters on Oahu will be free of charge for at least the next six months. The city says that’s how long it’ll take to replace its wireless credit card readers to match a technology upgrade by Verizon. Hawaii News Now.

Fugitive owner of embattled semi-sub company arrested after attempting to flee by boat.  Federal authorities on Friday arrested the fugitive owner of an embattled Hawaii shipbuilding company who tried to flee Hawaii on his boat ahead of his hearing. Curtiss E. Jackson, 71, was wanted by U.S. Marshals on a federal arrest warrant for violating his terms of pretrial release. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Why Community Efforts Aren’t Enough To Save Oahu’s Aging Cemeteries. Only a fraction of cemeteries on the island are licensed by the state and not all have a perpetual care fund to cover maintenance costs after the cemetery fills up. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Social media post of man urinating at Kilauea eruption viewing site stirs harsh backlash. A photo of a man urinating at a Kilauea eruption viewing site that was posted on social media is igniting anger — with some saying it underscores the need for cultural education.  Hawaii News Now.

TMT environmental review delayed by voluminous comments. The National Science Foundation is already behind in its effort to evaluate whether the stalled Thirty Meter Telescope project should be reinvigorated with $850,000 or more in public funds. Star-Advertiser.

Hilo Medical Center awaits $50M expansion OK.  Gov. Josh Green in December announced Opens in a new tab an allocation of $50 million in the executive budget for the expansion of Hilo Medical Center. Now it’s up to the state Legislature to approve that allocation. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Man who leapt to death off bridge political candidate, co-writer of famous song.  David "Kawika" Crowley, the 71-year-old Hilo man who jumped to his death Wednesday from the Puueo Bridge in downtown Hilo was a colorful character who pulled off an upset win in the GOP primary election for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District in 2012 — while homeless — and co-wrote one of Hawaii’s most beloved songs. Tribune-Herald.

Institute seeks to erect satellite array in Ka‘u.  The Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics will present at next month’s Windward Planning Commission meeting a request for a special permit to install 10 satellite dishes 20 feet in diameter, as well as additional infrastructure including a catchment tank, portable toilet and 10-kilowatt solar array across about two acres near Wood Valley. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Developer to present update on Pulelehua housing project. A special presentation updating the progress of the 310-acre Pulelehua housing development is among the topics being presented at the annual West Maui Taxpayers Association members meeting. Maui Now.

DOE eyes tentative mid-January opening for Kulanihako‘i High. State still has not fulfilled permit, plans to meet with Mayor’s Office next week. Maui News.

A Dwindling Kalaupapa Population Honors 1st Exiles With Tributes And Tears. Despite the painful history, many former Hansen’s disease patients have chosen to remain even after the government freed them from quarantine. Civil Beat.

Kauai

New Year, new laws: How ranked-choice voting could be used on Kaua‘i. Last week, state Rep. Jimmy Tokioka (a Democrat who represents portions of the Eastside) resigned his state house position to join Gov. Josh Green’s administration. Garden Island.

Mahelona master plan meeting is Wednesday. State Rep. Nadine K. Nakamura invites the community to attend a talk-story session regarding Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital, where officials will deliver an update on the hospital’s draft conceptual master plan. Garden Island.

Kilauea volcanic eruption resumes, NTSB releases deadly air ambulance crash report, out of state home buyers increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea volcano eruption PC:USGS

Lava flows once again from Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano. Kilauea roared back to life Thursday afternoon with fountains of lava spewing within Halemaumau Crater, nearly a month after the volcano went silent. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Hawaii Public Radio. West Hawaii Today.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Traffic-related fatalities in Hawaii surged in 2022. By the end of the year, the number of traffic-related fatalities, 117, was higher than for 2021, 2020 and 2019 but even with 2018, according to statistics from the state Department of Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Final moments of missing Hawaii plane detailed in NTSB report. A witness saw a medical transport plane that disappeared on a flight between Maui and the Big Island go into a spiraling descent and hit the ocean, according to a preliminary report released Thursday by the National Transportation Safety Board. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Air Ambulance Crash Exposes Vulnerability In Neighbor Island Health Care. Gov. Josh Green agrees that Hawaii needs a major health care build-out on the neighbor islands so that the state can wean itself off its dependency on medical air transport. Civil Beat.

Bringing students home to fix Hawaii’s doctor shortage. Hawaii needs about 800 doctors, according to the Hawaii Physician Workforce Assessment Report. KHON2.
 To address staffing shortfalls, 12-hour shifts proposed for adult corrections officers. Christin Johnson, the coordinator for the Correctional Systems Oversight Commission, is proposing 12-hour shifts in a bid to cut down on sick time and reel in new applicants.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi sees more out-of-state homebuyers; Canadians, Californians purchase on Maui. A state report showed about 25% of single-family homes from January to September of 2022 were bought by out-of-state residents. Of those, 23% of purchases were from the US Mainland and 2% were from international residents. Maui Now.

Public input sought about adding 100 land parcels to Hawaiʻi nature reserve systems. The Hawaiʻi State Department of Land and Natural Resources is seeking comments on a proposal to protect nearly 100 unencumbered state land parcels across Hawai’i as part of the State Forest Reserves, Natural Area Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries systems.  Maui Now.

State of Hawai’i has a new poet laureate, succeeding Kealoha. Brandy Nālani McDougall has been selected as the second Hawaiʻi State Poet Laureate, succeeding Kealoha, who served from 2012-2022. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Interim chair of the Honolulu Liquor Commission resigns, blaming ‘baseless accusations’. In less than a year, two chairs and a vice chair have resigned amid accusations of corruption and discrimination. Hawaii News Now.

Semi-sub in fraud case missing from harbor. Semisub One, the vessel belonging to Curtiss Jackson, a tour boat company co-founder charged with federal securities fraud and released on pretrial bond in October, was gone from its slip in Kewalo Harbor on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds Of Honolulu Parking Meters Disabled By Verizon 3G Shutdown. The city knew the shutdown was coming but didn’t upgrade the meters quickly enough. An estimated 2,200 digital parking meters in Honolulu suddenly stopped accepting credit cards on Wednesday after Verizon shut down its 3G network, according to the Department of Transportation Services. Civil Beat. KHON2.

State adds more ‘No Right Turn On Red’ signs at major intersections. No right on red! Oahu drivers are seeing more of those signs at major intersections. The state said it’s a renewed effort to increase safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. But it’s not sitting too well with some drivers. Hawaii News Now.

Former health director suggests water storage for Red Hill tanks, staying at Kapolei landfill. In a column for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, former state Department of Health Director Bruce Anderson suggested the tanks could be used to store drinking water for emergency use. Hawaii Public Radio.

Macy’s to close Windward Mall store on Oahu. Macy’s at Windward Mall in Kaneohe is among four Macy’s stores nationwide that are slated to close this year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Bills aim to add new parking rules, standardize hours at county parks.  Stricter parking controls and other rules might be coming to Hawaii County beach parks under a series of bills proposed Thursday at a County Council committee hearing. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui’s New County Council Struggles To Get Moving Amid 4-4 Split. Some people worry that the current 4-4 split could hinder the legislative body’s ability to get things done. Civil Beat.

‘Record-breaking’ demand for healthcare takes toll on workers at Maui hospital. Employees at Maui’s only acute care hospital are crying out for help. They say they can’t keep up with the current demand for healthcare. Hawaii News Now.

Investigative Reporter May Have To Testify Despite Journalist Privilege. A federal judge said Hawaii News Now’s Lynn Kawano did not waive her privilege when reporting about a Maui police officer accused of sexual misconduct. Civil Beat.

Kauai

COVID-19 cases remain stable on Kaua‘i but effects linger. While COVID-19 has surged through the mainland United States during the holiday season, case counts on Kaua‘i have been holding relatively stable. Garden Island.

Green mulls tax refund as state battles long COVID, inflation and worker shortage, Hono‘uli‘uli to be preserved, UH athletics director Matlin to retire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State considers another tax refund to ease pinch of Hawaii’s rising cost of living.  Fresh from issuing a $300 tax rebate to residents, Gov. Josh Green’s administration is considering another tax refund this year. But unlike the previous rebate, this one is for the middle-class and low-income residents struggling with Hawaii’s high cost of living and inflation. Hawaii News Now.

Tens Of Thousands In Hawaii May Be Working Less Because They Have ‘Long Covid’. A University of Hawaii researcher says the lingering disease may be contributing significantly to Hawaii’s labor shortage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s daily average COVID-19 cases and positivity climb slightly.  The Department of Health on Wednesday reported the state’s seven-day average of new COVID-19 cases increased to 177 compared with 156 reported Dec. 28. The state’s average positivity rate — or percentage of tests reported that are positive — rose to 7.9% compared with 7.1% the previous week. Star-Advertiser.

State sees increase in flu cases but decrease in RSV.  Flu season started early this year as the number of cases rose again in December throughout Hawaii, according to the state Department of Health’s Influenza Surveillance Report. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Life Flight announces return to service. This comes following a safety stand down taken in response to the disappearance of a Hawaiʻi Life Flight medical aircraft that disappeared off the coast of Maui while enroute to pick up a patient located on Hawaiʻi Island on Dec. 15. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s public school spending receives a C.  Hawaii’s spending on public school education has earned C grades in a new national report, with per-pupil spending here reported at $14,662 — $784 less than the U.S. average. Star-Advertiser.

Experts detail 'huge' cost of converting Hawaii's cesspools during legislative hearing. The total estimated cost of modernizing the roughly 88,000 cesspools across the state is $2 billion, according to members of the Cesspool Conversion Working Group. KITV4. Civil Beat.

David Matlin to retire in June as UH athletic director.  The University of Hawaii will be seeking a new leader for its 21-sport program following David Matlin’s announcement Wednesday that he will retire in June after eight years as athletic director. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Media Veteran Erika Engle Named Press Secretary To Gov. Green. Makana McClellan, Gov. Josh Green’s communication director, said Erika Engle will assist her in facilitating media requests, writing news releases and media advisories. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Council Chair: ‘Remote Testimony Is Here To Stay’. A measure that opened the door to precluding citizens from testifying remotely at council sessions had officials issuing a clarification on Wednesday. Civil Beat.

What Happens When Private Equity Is Your Landlord in Hawai‘i. The Blackstone Group and other firms have been buying rental properties in West O‘ahu. Tenants say the result can be escalating rents and unexpected fees. Hawaii Business Magazine.

HECO working with FBI after Oahu power plant receives several letters with threatening innuendos. Officials at Hawaiian Electric’s Kahe Power Plant in Leeward Oahu confirm they’re working with the FBI after receiving several letters with threatening innuendos. Hawaii News Now.

City taps COVID funds to fight Chinatown crime, homelessness. In an effort to extend the anti-crime and homeless outreach efforts of the Chinatown Task Force through the year, Mayor Rick Blangiardi has announced that the city is again tapping federal COVID-19 relief funds. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Marines to conduct urban raid training on Oahu this month.  The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Japan-based Maritime Raid Force will return to Oahu on Friday to conduct a series of training events through Jan. 20. Star-Advertiser.

$10M allotted for education, preservation of internment sites. Co-authored by U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, the new law funds the preservation of the Japanese American internment camps including Hono‘uli‘uli on Oahu which housed more than 2,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

City to issue violation notice in wake of deadly rock wall collapse in Kailua. Last Friday, a 15-foot retaining wall collapsed at a Kailua home on Akiikii Place killing 22-year-old Sione Veikoso and seriously injuring 3 others. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Signs to receive Hawaiian diacritics on Oʻahu's Leeward coast. Under a new policy that was announced early March 2022, the state's Department of Transportation will add Hawaiian diacritical markings to road signs. This will include adding the kahakō and ‘okina to about 16 signs on Oʻahu over the next couple months. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Consultant finds numerous flaws in county’s building permit process. An investigation into Hawaii County’s building permit process found systemic flaws, but no real surprises, county officials said Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Panel OKs spending plans for $2.3 million in fuel taxes.  The Finance Committee voted unanimously, with Puna Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz excused, to advance to the full council bills 3 and 4, which would appropriate more than $859,000 in excess fuel taxes and reappropriate over $1.15 million in lapsed funds, respectively. West Hawaii Today.

Work On Kaʻū Water System Improvements Set To Begin. Construction on the County of Hawai‘i Department of Water Supply Public Water System #108 – Waiʻōhinu-Naʻalehu starts Monday. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County Council awaits Hawaiʻi Supreme Court election decision on final member.  Eight of the nine members of the Maui County Council were sworn into office on Monday, and the fate of the last seat, that of incumbent Alice Lee, remains up in the air. Hawaii Public Radio.

Grappling with water shortage ‘crisis,’ West Maui residents demand answers. Following an urgent water conservation request issued last week, West Maui residents are grappling with what they called a water shortage “crisis.” Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Doctors Want To Maximize The Potential Of Anti-Addiction Medication For Kauai Inmates. Overcoming the urge to return to heroin or other opioids upon release is only part of the problem. Many encounter a life outside without basic resources. Civil Beat.