Green vetoes 7 bills, trims budget; Maui postpones short-term rental phase out, Army listens to Oahu concerns over future of state lands, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green vetoes 7 bills passed by lawmakers. Green, who had until today to veto bills passed earlier this year by the Legislature, announced Tuesday that he is vetoing only seven bills from a list of 17 that he previously indicated could be vetoed due to concerns. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Governor signs nearly $24B budget that will tackle priorities such as affordable housing, health care, Maui recovery. Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green on Tuesday signed the state’s supplemental budget, which provides $19.1 billion in operating funds and $4.5 billion in capital improvement money throughout the state for fiscal year 2025 to tackle state priorities from affordable housing and health care needs to continued recovery efforts from last year’s deadly wildfires on Maui. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

New Hawaii laws signed for gun control, child protection. On Tuesday, Gov. Josh Green signed bills addressing public safety and crime response, including implementing stricter regulations on the sale and ownership of ammunition, and extending the statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News

Hawaii Governor Says Media Operations Should Be Protected During Emergencies. Gov. Josh Green on Tuesday said he would sign a bill intended to protect First Amendment rights of freedom of speech and the press during times of crisis. Civil Beat.

Green balks at acting to replace state senator before election. Gov. Josh Green is refusing to appoint an interim member of the state Senate by a deadline set by Hawaii law to fill a seat vacated in May by then-Sen. Maile Shimabukuro representing parts of West Oahu. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. 

Government Workers In Hawaii Get Paid Not To Work As Misconduct Investigations Drag On For Months Or Years. A system meant to protect worker rights and resolve disciplinary cases fast has turned into something much different, with taxpayers picking up the tab for employees told not to come to work.  Civil Beat.

Study finds Hawaiʻi struggles the most with SAT vocabulary. The study aimed to measure the difficulty of every word listed as answer options in the most recent tests' Reading and Writing sections.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii faces shortage of Covid vaccines as demand surges. The Centers for Disease Control is scheduled to release the latest version of its vaccine later this fall. Until then, doctors advise the public to be cautious.  KHON2.

Oahu

Army concedes ‘environmental justice concerns’ amid debate over future of state-leased lands. The Army is expecting passionate testimony as it kicks off a series of meetings over the future of its leased lands on Oahu. The U.S. government leases about 6,322 acres of land from the state at the Makua Military Reservation, Kahuku Training Area and Kawailoa-Poamoho Training Area near Schofield Barracks. Hawaii News Now.

3 bridges in Hawaii Kai will undergo $1.6 million rehabilitation. Three well-traveled bridges built more than 50 years ago over the man-made waterways of Hawaii Kai will undergo a $1.6 million rehabilitation, city officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Nurses picket for safer staffing ratios. Hundreds of unionized nurses Tuesday morning held signs in front of three hospitals across Oahu, eliciting honks from passing cars, as they called for safer staffing levels. Star-Advertiser.

What comes next for Aloha Stadium with 1 developer in the running? Two development teams were in the running for the project, and then, all of a sudden, one dropped out in June. Waiola Development Partners said no thanks, leaving Aloha Halawa District Partners as the last group standing.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Mayoral candidates to appear today at AARP Hawaii forum. The candidates are Kimo Alameda, Breeani Kobayashi, Mitch Roth and Jr Tupa‘i. They will answer questions from AARP Hawaii and a live audience. Tribune-Herald.

Short-Handed Kona Public Defender’s Office Won’t Accept New Drunken Driving Cases. The Kailua-Kona Public Defender’s Office has stopped accepting new drunken driving cases and the most serious felony cases because it is short-handed, and a retired Big Island judge is warning that it could affect public safety if something isn’t done. Civil Beat.

Hilo airport evacuated, bomb squad called after inert grenades found in Japanese man’s carry-on bag. Hawaii County police have arrested a 41-year-old man from Japan after two items resembling grenades were found in his carry-on bag at Hilo International Airport. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  KITV4.

Proposal aims to create more farmers markets. A new Hawaii County bill introduced at Tuesday’s meeting of the County Council’s Policy Committee on Health, Safety and Well-Being would allow seven additional farmers markets to be set up in county parks and facilities islandwide. Tribune-Herald.

Dredging Begins At Wailoa Small Boat Harbor. The $3.1 million dredging operation at Wailoa Small Boat Harbor started on Tuesday, the Hawaiʻi DLNR reports. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Fire lawsuits settlement advances at Maui County Council. A massive settlement resolving all claims and lawsuits over the Maui wildfires could be on the table as soon as next week. A Maui County Council committee late Tuesday advanced a measure to the full council, to approve a global settlement. KHON2.

Maui Commission meeting postpones action on phasing out thousands of vacation rentals. Tuesday was supposed to be a monumental day regarding the future of thousands of short-term rentals on Maui. However, it turned into a major disappointment after an important Planning Commission meeting was unexpectedly canceled. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

‘The Most Critical Challenge We Face’: Maui Council On Track To Confirm New Housing Director. Richard Mitchell says he knows the importance of a roof over people's heads having lived in public housing as a child. Civil Beat.

Stream restoration, water supply needs prompt a closer look at Ha‘ikū streams. Maui County is planning to ask the state to amend the interim in-stream flow standards for 11 streams in Ha‘ikū, according to Department of Water Supply Director John Stufflebean. It comes amid a greater push for community control over East Maui water and the county’s search for more water sources in the face of demand and drought. Maui Now.

Illegal Fireworks Task Force releases report of enforcement. From January until the end of June, Task Force officers seized approximately 1,000 pounds of illegal fireworks from various sources in the community. Maui News.

Kauai

Next Kaua‘i Community College chancellor recommended to university president. Margaret Sanchez has been recommended to be the next chancellor of Kauaʻi Community College after a nationwide search. Sanchez has been serving as interim chancellor since 2023. Kauai Now.

Sprucing up historic Koloa monument. For Derwin Nohara and others on the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Engineering Department team, the two-day cleaning project of the historic Koloa monument became an educational experience at the space where the monument is located. Garden Island.

Green signs bill banning seabed mining, ACLU drops homeless sweeps lawsuit, aid-in-dying prescriptions up 50%, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor signs bills aimed at protecting Hawaii’s environment. Gov. Josh Green on Monday signed a host of bills aimed at protecting Hawaii’s environment, including ones to better manage tourism and to study coastal erosion on Oahu’s North Shore that could serve as a template for the rest of the islands. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green signs bill banning seabed mining in state waters. Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green on Monday signed a state Senate bill prohibiting seabed mining in state waters – less than two weeks after 12 Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to support a precautionary pause or moratorium on the new industry. Big Island Now.

DOH: Number of Hawaii patients using aid-in-dying prescriptions up by over 50%. The number of Hawaii patients using aid-in-dying prescriptions is up by over 50%, according to the state Health Department. A new DOH report shows 91 patients used the medications last year. Hawaii News Now.

Port security gets extra attention at RIMPAC. At this year’s iteration of the biennial Exercise Rim of the Pacific — the world’s largest naval exercise — port security is playing a prominent role as international conflict and competition put strains on global supply chains.  Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

OHA Candidates Offer Ideas For More Effective Help For Native Hawaiians. Most of the challengers want to see funds reallocated to housing and education initiatives. Civil Beat.

Oahu

ACLU Drops Homelessness Lawsuit Against Honolulu. The action comes less than two weeks after a consequential U.S. Supreme Court ruling that gave local governments more leeway to ban sleeping outside. Civil Beat.  Star-Advertiser.

New law seeks middle ground (and quick solutions) in erosion conflict. After years of fighting between beachfront homeowners on Oahu’s North Shore and the state over worsening erosion, a measure signed into law Monday has offered a temporary truce — and a potential pathway to a solution. Hawaii News Now.

Government pushes back against damages sought in high-stakes Red Hill water crisis case. The U.S. government says Red Hill plaintiffs are asking for too much money in their lawsuit and insists the entire Navy waterline wasn’t even contaminated. Hawaii News Now.

Police Union Fears HPD Can’t Recruit Its Way Out Of Its Staffing Crisis. Instead, the union calls for a focus on retaining current officers. HPD has started offering a $25,000 signing bonus but says it is also taking steps to keep employees on board. Civil Beat.

Candidates To Replace Calvin Say On The Honolulu City Council Offer Contrasting Approaches. Three candidates are running — House Rep. Scott Nishimoto, nonprofit consultant Brendan Schultz and restaurant owner Bill Muneno — and they have different ideas of what a council member’s job should be.  Civil Beat.

State signs 50-year lease to continue operating North Shore's Kawaihāpai Airfield. The state has signed a 50-year lease with the U.S. Army at Kawaihāpai Airfield — formerly known as Dillingham Airfield. Hawaii Public Radio.

New affordable housing high-rise could be full by end of summer. The city announced last week that the Waikīkī Vista at 2441 Kapiʻolani Blvd. has already provided emergency shelter and transitional housing for 21 families. Another 23 affordable housing units are occupied, and five more move-ins are scheduled. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

DLNR: Boat anchor suspected as cause of recent coral damage in Kewalo Basin. Though the damage at Kewalo is on a relatively smaller scale compared to some larger-scale impacts over the decades, it could still take years for the coral in this area to fully recover. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

No action on Big Isle short-term vacation rentals: Council considers proposed economic-impact study before deciding new standards. A trio of bills — and several amendments for each one — that codify new standards for short-term rentals were the subject of an hours-long County Council committee hearing that ultimately ended with the matter being punted to a future meeting with the promise of further amendments to come. Tribune-Herald.

NASA’s Asteroid Hunting Telescope On Maunakea To Continue Under UH Management. The Infrared Telescope Facility plays a key part of NASA’s planetary defense system, and the space agency's contract with the University of Hawaiʻi is valued at $85.5 million. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission Vacancies Restrict Time Spent On Major Rental Housing Proposal. The Maui Planning Commission can only meet for an hour Tuesday to discuss what is arguably the most pressing policy debate moving through county government — Mayor Richard Bissen’s proposed phase-out of approximately 7,000 transient vacation rentals — because it won’t have enough members to keep the 9 a.m. meeting running past 10 a.m. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Maui County looking for fire lawsuit settlement options. Thousands of people affected by the deadly Maui wildfires last August could soon be offered a settlement from Maui County. KHON2.

Some Lahaina homeowners hit with foreclosure notices on their burned homes. Foreclosure status for nonpayment is illegal for owner-occupant borrowers who have been granted forbearance. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui Now.

Kauai

Travel-related dengue virus case reported on Kaua‘i. This year there have been eight travel-related dengue cases identified in the state (one on Kauaʻi, two on Maui and five on Oʻahu).  Kauai Now.

Study recommends replacing state tourism authority with nonprofit, Big Island law would curtail short-term vacation rentals, South Korean president visiting Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Study recommends replacing Hawaii Tourism Authority with new governance model. A contractor that the Hawaii Tourism Authority paid $294,400 to conduct a tourism governance study has found that HTA should restructure to a community-driven nonprofit rather than a government entity under the state Legislature.  Star-Advertiser.

State SNAP, EBT benefits delayed due to surge in applications, staff vacancies. The Department of Human Services says nearly a quarter of positions for workers who process applications have not been filled. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Schools Have A Major Shortage Of Vice Principals — And It’s Getting Worse. Last year nearly a third of vice principal positions in the state were either vacant or filled by educators who didn't meet the certification requirements for the job. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green signs bills to enhance disaster preparation, response. Gov. Josh Green on Friday signed a series of bills to enhance the state’s response to fires and other emergencies and disasters in the wake of the Aug. 8 Maui wildfires that killed at least 102 people and destroyed 3,971 properties, most of them homes. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Green signs bills to enhance public safety. Gov. Josh Green on Friday signed into law two bills increasing penalties for unauthorized driving and establishing offenses of habitual violent crime. A third bill regarding traffic and public safety enacted into law implements a pilot program for speed enforcement cameras. Star-Advertiser.

South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to visit Honolulu this week. South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol will be on Oahu this week to meet with top U.S. military officials before flying to Washington, D.C., to deliver a keynote address at the 2024 NATO Public Forum.  Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii governors urge Biden to quit race. Three former Hawaii Democratic governors — John Waihee, Ben Cayetano and Neil Abercrombie — on Saturday called for President Joe Biden to withdraw his bid for a second term following Biden’s poor debate performance against former President Donald Trump just over a week ago. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

Oahu

Honolulu Ethics Commission Says Number Of Complaints Has Dropped. The Honolulu Ethics Commission saw a spike in complaints after high-profile corruption cases, but now the number has fallen below the average. Civil Beat.

New Development Begins On Former Turtle Bay Resort Land Near Kahuku Point. The area was the focus of decades of political and legal efforts to preserve sensitive habitat that includes 5 miles of coastline. Civil Beat.

Honolulu ranks toughest to flip homes in U.S., report says. The median price for previously owned single-family homes rose 6.7% in June to $1.12 million from $1.05 million, while sales gained 4% to 258 from 248, according to a monthly report released Saturday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

An Oahu Teacher’s Futile Apartment Hunt Shows How Bad The Rental Market Is. Housing policy advocates say Helen Lau's story is all too common amid Honolulu's housing crisis. Civil Beat.

Startup ventures to test Japanese vertical wind turbine technology in the islands. A Hawai‘i-based startup with ties to Japan is bringing state-of-the-art Japanese clean energy technology to Kaka‘ako Makai in Honolulu, to study its feasibility in the islands by operating its one wind turbine for research and demonstration purposes. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island

Three short term vacation rental measures go back before County Council. A trio of contentious measures revamping where and how short-term vacation rentals are allowed to operate on Hawaii Island are heading back to the County Council. Tribune-Herald.

County sets up temporary homeless camp. While a more permanent shelter is scheduled to open next to the Salvation Army on Ponahawai Street in August, the county on Friday set up an array of tents on a lot just down the street. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Faces Uncertainty Over The Future Of Its Energy Grid. As HECO tries to get new clean energy projects going, island leaders are discussing whether to make it mandatory to bury more power lines safely below ground. Civil Beat.

HECO retiring 35% of firm generators on Maui by 2028, replacing with renewable energy. This major overhaul is driven by state environmental regulations and difficulties in sourcing parts for aging generators, many of which have become obsolete. Maui Now.

Maui to receive $5M for hybrid electric buses. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation will receive $5 million in federal funding to buy hybrid electric buses to replace older diesel models on Maui, according to a Wednesday news release. Hawaii Public Radio.

Repair Or Retreat? An Ocean-Battered Maui Condo Complex Grapples With An Uncertain Future. Two of Kahana Sunset's six buildings are teetering near the water's edge while battling sinkholes and shaky foundations. It's now in the county's hands to decide what to do. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Visitor spending climbs 26.6 percent in May on Kaua‘i. A slight drop in the number of visitors to the island of Kaua‘i in mid-spring was countered by a hefty increase in spending, as tourists continued to pump huge sums of money into the local economy while on holiday. Garden Island.

Ammo age ban likely, German navy joins RIMPAC, Honolulu mulls fake farm bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii to ban those under 21 from buying ammo. Gov. Josh Green is expected to sign a new bill into law that will ban those under 21 from purchasing ammunition. KHON2.

German navy makes its debut at RIMPAC in Hawaii. German navy makes its debut at RIMPAC. This year at the biennial Exercise Rim of the Pacific — the world’s largest naval exercise — the German navy has dispatched ships to participate for the first time as Berlin begins putting its ambitious new Pacific strategy into action. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii urged to prepare for wildfire power shutoffs. This week marks the start of Hawaiian Electric’s program of proactively shutting off power in specified areas to protect the public if and when there is a high risk of wildfires on all the islands it serves. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric launches new searchable maps for Public Safety Power Shutoff program. Hawaiian Electric customers can now use a new online search feature to determine if their address is within the high-risk wildfire areas within the company’s Public Safety Power Shutoff program. Maui News. Big Island Video News.

New law boosts funding for Hawaiian language immersion education. Hawaiian language immersion education is getting a boost in funding to create new positions for kaiapuni teachers and curriculum specialists with the state Department of Education. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu Bill To Rein In Fake Farms Threatens Real Ag Enterprises. Beekeepers, kennels and livestock owners say a proposed change to Honolulu's land use ordinance would drive them out of business. Civil Beat.

City seeks to terminate tow contractor after audit finds hundreds of drivers overcharged. All Island Wreckers, also known as All Island Automative Towing, was contracted by the city in January 2023 and city officials were made aware of the complaints about the fees during the mayor’s town hall in Mililani on April 6, 2023. Hawaii News Now.

EPA fines 2 Oahu nurseries for worker protection standard violations. According to the EPA, the state in 2021 conducted inspections at the nurseries: Olomana Orchids Inc. of Kaneohe and Mari’s Garden’s in Mililani. Both cases were referred to the EPA in 2023 for resolution. Star-Advertiser.

Popular Oahu trail to temporarily close for much-needed maintenance, upgrades. Manoa Falls Trail, one of the most popular hikes on Oahu, will temporarily close for maintenance this month. The closure will run from Monday through July 13.  Hawaii News Now.

A Tale Of 12 Shopping Carts And The Man Who Retrieves Them. It's a dirty business, even in suburban Kapolei. But somebody's got to do it. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Aircraft Alert Issued For Pōhakuloa Training Area, RIMPAC. Residents around Hilo airport have already noticed an increase in military aircraft taking off and landing.  Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County park returns to its original place name. A Pāhoa park sign now bears its original place name. On Wednesday, community leaders, students elected officials and local residents held a blessing for Waiakahi‘ula Beach Park, formerly known as Kahakai Park. Big Island Now.

Maui

Moratorium on disconnections of electric service for non-payment for Maui customers extended through Aug. 31. Suspension of service disconnections for all Hawaiian Electric customers on Maui has been extended through at least Aug. 31, 2024, in accordance with the extension of Gov. Josh Green’s emergency proclamation. Maui Now.

Over 30 rebuilding permits have been issued after the fire. Here’s how some Lahaina homeowners did it. A total of 31 disaster recovery permits for residential structures have been issued as of Wednesday, including 28 in Lahaina and three in Kula, according to Desilee Santiago, one of four permit technicians with 4LEAF, which received a three-year, $16 million contract to help Maui County with the permitting process following the fires. Maui Now.

Lahaina Fire Survivors Prepare To Test Maui County’s Rules On Living In The Burn Zone. With the trailer on a barge en route to Hawaii, two business partners plan to set up a makeshift home on the now-cleared property. Civil Beat.

Oahu Coral Group Gears Up To Help Maui’s Battered Reefs. Started by fishermen and firefighters, Kuleana Coral Restoration prioritizes workforce development to aid coral reefs stressed by warming oceans, urban runoff and more. Civil Beat.

Maui chef who served community during fires now fighting for his life. Riko Bartolome was recently diagnosed with leukemia. The specific form he is battling is high risk that affects his blood and bone marrow. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Fireworks determined to be cause of motel lanai fire on Kauai. Kaua'i Fire Department firefighters extinguished a structure fire on Papaloa Road in Wailua on Wednesday, July 3. KITV4.

Kaua‘i Sushi Station crowned best in nation – for the second year in a row. That’s according to popular business review website Yelp, which recently placed Kaua‘i Sushi Station at the summit of its “Top 100 Sushi Spots” of 2024. Kauai Now.

Strong start to summer travel season at Lihu‘e Airport.  A busy start to the summer travel season at Lihu‘e Airport saw more passengers arriving via domestic flights and longer wait times for people leaving the island of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Traffic crashes increase, federal grant to remove obstacles to housing production, indoor air quality sends 90 Honolulu city employees to work from home, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Traffic crashes increase. The Hawaii Police Department’s Traffic Services Section reviewed all updated crashes, according to a news release, and found 498 major crashes so far this year, compared with 429 the same time last year, a 16% increase.  Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Josh Green signs Hawaii agriculture bills into law.  Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday signed 11 agriculture-related bills to protect Hawaii’s biosecurity, preserve the safety of the state’s food systems and safeguard local farmers and producers through fair labeling. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

Green: Hawaii awarded new federal grant aimed at removing obstacles to housing production. Gov. Josh Green and U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced $6.6 million in federal funds for Hawaii as part of an effort to build and preserve more affordable housing. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Gov. Josh Green says Biden was ‘sick and exhausted’ before debate. Gov. Josh Green said he came away from a conference call Wednesday with President Joe Biden and other Democratic governors feeling like the president was a “different individual” from the one in the distressing performance during the 2024 election debate.  Star-Advertiser. New York Times.

Hawaii sheriff policies changing amid ongoing harassment cases. New details revealed about allegations in harassment case against deputy sheriffs. Deputy Sheriff William Gary’s case involves accusations of him making derogatory comments about gay people toward a deputy sheriff, an inappropriate photo on a state computer, and an incident where he allegedly shoved the deputy. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

UHERO report highlights ocean-based industries to diversify the economy. Water-based industries featured in the report include boat building, harbor operations and water transportation, given Hawaiʻi's strong existing ties to the ocean. But fishing and aquaculture in particular could have the highest potential to add to the state’s economy. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Indoor air quality concerns force nearly 100 employees at Honolulu Hale to work remotely. The city Office for Corporation Counsel is now locked with signs on the door directing people to call instead of visiting. On May 10, all 90 employees in the office were notified by email that they were to “collect everything they need to telework” until further notice. Hawaii News Now.

Coral Colonies Severely Damaged Off Kewalo Basin, Divers Say. Local conservationists and scuba divers say they found coral colonies off Kewalo Basin “obliterated” last week after commercial divers warned them to stay away because diving there would be dangerous during their work. Civil Beat.

How the Supreme Court's sit-lie ban could impact Honolulu's homeless enforcement. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that municipalities can enforce sit-lie and camping ordinances against homeless people, even if there aren't enough shelter beds available.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Tow company remains silent on overcharges. A city-contracted tow company has not responded in the wake of the city’s decision that it must refund more than $650,000 in extra fees to hundreds of registered vehicle owners on Oahu or see its annual, three-year contract with the city terminated. Star-Advertiser.

City Ordered To Partially Halt Haiku Stairs Dismantling As Lawsuit Appeal Continues. The order allows the city to remove stair sections only if they were already separated from the mountain. Civil Beat.

Miske Defense Rests After Casting Doubt On Alleged Crime Boss’s Involvement In Conspiracy. Michael Miske's defense attorneys highlighted a lack of forensic evidence linking him to crime scenes and brought up possible alternative explanations for the disappearance of Johnathan Fraser, whom Miske is accused of conspiring to have killed. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit Against DOE Questions Suspension Of Student For Bringing A Nerf Gun To School. Stevenson Middle School initially suspended nine students in January for having toy guns that were considered a threat to campus safety. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Harry Kim Endorses Kobayashi For Mayor. Former Hawaiʻi County Mayor and Civil Defense director Harry Kim has endorsed Breeani Kobayashi for mayor.  Big Island Video News.

Petitioners appeal decision regarding Lee Loy. Petitioners who sought to disqualify Hawaii County Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy from running for the state House District 2 seat are appealing Hawaii Chief Election Officer Scott Nago’s decision that she is eligible to run. Tribune-Herald.

Removal of Caltech observatory completed. Caltech released a statement Tuesday announcing that all of the observatory’s facilities have been removed from the summit nearly nine years after it ceased operations at the end of 2015. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Military aircraft alert for Hawaii Island.  The public is advised that depending on weather, jet engine and aircraft noise may increase over Pohakuloa Training Area and West Hawaii from July 8 through Aug. 2 as military aircraft participate in the 2024 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. Tribune-Herald.

People reliant on powered medical devices urged to plan for outages. West Hawaii residents who are dependent upon electrical medical devices are strongly advised to make plans for potential power outages this summer. Tribune-Herald.

How ‘ōkolehao, an alcoholic spirit made of tī root, could change the liquor industry. Hawaiʻi's first-ever alcoholic spirit made from the root of the tī plant may soon get a boost in popularity from a Big Island brewery.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui County wrestles with collecting transient accommodations taxes. The County Auditor’s report shows that, for fiscal year 2022, the county recognized over $56.9 million in Maui County TAT on its financial statements. But, as of June 30, 2022, only $40 million was deposited into the county’s treasury. Maui Now.

Over 30 rebuilding permits have been issued after the fire. Here’s how some Lahaina homeowners did it. The process of getting a rebuilding permit has been fast for some residents, but factors like the design and location can also impact the timeline. Maui Now.

Hawaiian Nonprofit Gets State Permit After Losing Office In Lahaina Fire. The organization Na Aikane o Maui operated a cultural center in Lahaina but its previous permit expired one day after the Aug. 8 wildfire. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kaua‘i is most limited in diversifying its economy compared to all counties in state, UHERO report reveals. In a tourism-concentrated economy, University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization, also known as UHERO, released the report Tuesday, which looks at ways the state could diversify as tourism revenue has shown inconsistent and slow growth for the past 30 years. Kauai Now.

Opponents of Coco Palms redevelopment hail a court ruling, but it may not stop the rebuilding. The long saga of Coco Palms on Kauai may be heading back to court after a three-judge panel canceled a foreclosure deal that led to the current redevelopment. Hawaii News Now.

Strong start to summer travel season at Lihu‘e Airport. A busy start to the summer travel season at Lihu‘e Airport saw more passengers arriving via domestic flights and longer wait times for people leaving the island of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Green signs 16 human services and education bills, teens arrested for hunting on Oprah's property, ambulance provider gets $112M contract, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green signs 16 bills, protecting keiki and kupuna. Legislation enacted Monday by Gov. Josh Green also will provide more money for a summer food program for students in low-income households and abolish a salary cap for the state schools superintendent. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Now.

Hawaii Teachers Say They Want To Prioritize Civic Education — But They Need More Help. Despite major changes to education standards six years ago, not all students are getting the same level of support in developing the skills they need to become active citizens. Civil Beat.

Descendants of plaintiffs in landmark DHHL settlement anxious to receive remaining $100M in payouts. After a landmark settlement over Hawaiian Home Lands, another round of checks could start going out in the next few weeks. This money will be for the descendants of deceased plaintiffs tied to a lawsuit filed 25 years ago. Hawaii News Now.

AMR ambulance provider receives $112M contract to keep operating on Kauai, Maui. The deal requires that every ambulance has a paramedic and EMT onboard. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

HART board looks to hire PR firm to improve its image. Some of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s board members say it’s time to improve the public image surrounding the nearly $10 billion Skyline project. Star-Advertiser.

At 1, city leaders say, Skyline is a toddler with lots of potential — and some growing up to do. A year after launching the first segment of Skyline, city officials are happy with its performance — even though ridership is covering a tiny fraction of the rail line’s costs. Hawaii News Now.

A new license plate could help restore Pearl Harbor to its natural state. A new license plate will be coming to the Aloha state after getting the green light from Hawaii’s governor. It will help showcase Hawaii’s beauty and restore a vital harbor with deep historical ties. Hawaii News Now.

Special trash cans installed around Waikiki. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, along with representatives from the state Department of Parks and Recreation, the Waikiki Business Improvement District and JTB Hawaii Inc., gathered Monday by the Duke Kahanamoku statue to unveil the first three of 26 specialty trash cans set to be installed around Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Democratic Party Picnic Set For Kona On July 4th. The Hawaiʻi County Democratic Party returns to the Old Kona Airport on the 4th of July for its traditional potluck picnic. Big Island Video News.

Planning commissions support proposal for residential beekeeping. A proposal that would allow Big Island beekeepers to work closer to home remains popular among residents and policymakers alike. Tribune-Herald.

28 Acres Of Kohala Farmland Permanently Protected. Hawai‘i Land Trust and Island Harvest say they are protecting the lands through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service program. Big Island Video News.

Maui

DLNR: 2 teens arrested for hunting without license on Oprah’s property. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources said enforcement officers stopped the two men after seeing them allegedly use a spotlight for hunting purposes near Thompson and Kamaole roads in Kula, Upcountry Maui. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now.  Maui News.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Tsuhako sworn in as new Maui Director of Human Concerns; new County deputies named. Lori Tsuhako was sworn in on Monday as County of Maui Director of Human Concerns, a new department that launched July 1, 2024, Mayor Richard Bissen announced. Maui Now.

In 20-year-old legal battle, state Supreme Court issues ruling in Nā Wai ʻEhā case. A more than two decades-long court battle over water in Central Maui has come to an end with the state Supreme Court calling on the Water Commission to be more proactive in its public trust duties. Civil Beat.

Health care facilities gear up for HECO’s ‘last resort’ power shutoff plan that kicks in today. Major medical facilities on Maui are prepared to flip on their generators or close their clinics should they lose power under Hawaiian Electric Co.’s new plan that kicks in today.  Maui Now.

Therapy On The Beach: Program Targets Youth Mental Health Crisis On Maui With Mobile Counseling. Access, transportation and survivor's guilt all play into the problem of providing kids with the mental health support they need. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Groups discuss disaster preparedness on Kaua‘i. Talk about disaster response was flavored by recent announcements from within the Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i on Wednesday, when the group met at the Kaua‘i Community College Fine Arts Auditorium to hammer out disaster preparedness for food access. Garden Island.

On Kaua‘i, paying homage to the last ‘akikiki in the wild. When a group of men hiked into a remote mountain valley on the Hawaiian island of Kaua‘i in April, they knew it could be the last time they saw an ‘akikiki in the wild. Kauai Now.

Navies from 29 countries train around Hawaii during RIMPAC, HART board violated Sunshine Law, HECO asks PUC for fee increases to cover Maui wildfire costs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Navies train in Hawaii during RIMPAC as ocean turns into mock battlefields. The biennial Rim of the Pacific, the world’s largest recurring naval exercise, is underway in Hawaii and San Diego, bringing together 40 warships from 29 countries. Exercises are scheduled June 26 to Aug. 2, in and around the Hawaiian Islands.  Star-Advertiser.

Congress looks to continue Coast Guard’s Pacific expansion. The Coast Guard is slated to continue solidifying its Pacific footprint with new funds from Congress as the service plays an increasingly prominent role in Washington’s regional strategy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric system upgrades to buffet electric bills. Hawaii’s largest electric utility, Hawaiian Electric Co., is seeking regulatory approval for a second “exceptional” investment project where it intends to recover costs from ratepayers who stand to have their bills affected by incremental, long-lasting small increases.  Star-Advertiser.

Governor Signs 13 Bills For Native Hawaiian Beneficiaries, Culture. Governor Josh Green on Friday signed 13 bills into law, renewing the state’s commitment to the Hawaiʻi Department of Hawaiian Homelands, as well as Native Hawaiian education, cultural practices and traditions, and stewardship.   Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Bill on traffic violations may face governor’s veto. If it becomes law, House Bill 2526 would increase the penalty for a third or subsequent offense involving unauthorized driving or operation of motor vehicles to a class C felony and authorize the court to order the forfeiture of the vehicle used in the offense. Star-Advertiser.

First Amendment Groups Oppose Veto Of Bill To Limit Governor’s Power To Cut Off Electronic Media In Emergencies. Hawaii’s governor warns of the need to respond to possible violence generated by social media in times of crisis. But journalists and attorneys fear violation of constitutionally protected free speech. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green Makes Appointments To Boards And Agencies. They include Christine Sakuda as Hawaii's chief information officer. Green also appointed Barbara Polk and Danton Wong to serve on the Campaign Spending Commission, Andrew Pereira to the Stadium Authority and Debbie Cabebe to the Hawaii Community Development Authority Pulehunui. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Former HART Board Members Violated Sunshine Law By Discussing Consulting Contract In Private. Ultimately, Colleen Hanabusa turned down the lucrative consulting contract in favor of rejoining the unpaid board as public scrutiny grew. Three key board members overseeing Honolulu’s Skyline transit construction violated state open meeting laws when they traded emails about hiring Colleen Hanabusa to a lucrative consultant contract before discussing the proposal in an open meeting, the Office of Information Practices ruled last week. Civil Beat

Skyline marks first anniversary, anticipates more stations opening in next 18 months. A year after it opened to the public, Honolulu’s Skyline rail system continues to see a mix of more than 1 million commuters, first- timers, lookie-loos and tourists who are already anticipating four more stations that are scheduled to open in the next 18 months — including into and out of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

City Council’s affordable rental housing bill advances. A bill meant to give private developers of affordable rental housing greater financial incentives to build is moving forward — but with a change to post-construction grant amounts meant to spur completion of more units above or below 300 square feet in size. Star-Advertiser.

City taking over Biki bikeshare system. Starting Monday, the City and County of Honolulu is officially taking over management of the Biki bikeshare system — marking a major change since its launch in 2017. Star-Advertiser.

Star-Advertiser will now use the mail to deliver newspapers in Waikiki. In a letter, Aaron Kotarek, senior vice president of audience and operations for the Star-Advertiser, wrote that beginning July 1, the company will partner with the U.S. Postal Service to deliver the paper to readers in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

For Chief Judge Kim, retirement is ‘rehirement’. Today will be the last day on the bench for Third Circuit Chief Judge Robert Kim, four years to the day after being named the Big Island’s chief administrative jurist by Hawaii Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo roundabout gets funding. A project to build a traffic roundabout in downtown Hilo has received more than $17 million in federal funding. Tribune-Herald.

Unrest escalates at Kīlauea; more than 500 earthquakes rock upper East Rift Zone. Hundreds of earthquakes are occurring in Kīlauea's upper East Rift Zone, prompting an overnight status report from the USGS.. Scientists say “any substantial increases in seismicity and/or deformation could result in a new eruptive episode, but there are no signs of an imminent eruption at this time.” Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Another Suicide At The Maui Jail Leaves A Grieving Family To Conclude ‘Something Is Wrong’. Artrina De Lima's death is the sixth suicide at the Maui jail in the past four years. That is more than the total number of known suicides at all other Hawaii correctional facilities during that time. Civil Beat.

Bill To Designate Lahaina As A National Heritage Area Gets Congressional Hearing. The governor, Maui mayor, cultural leaders from West Maui and others say such a designation would help Lahaina recover and celebrate its past. Civil Beat.

Kahikolu Project on Maui targets axis deer and widespread environmental impacts. Prolific herds of hungry axis deer continue to wreak havoc in Maui County, damaging farm crops, overgrazing livestock pasture lands, threatening fragile watersheds and even encroaching in heavily urbanized areas like Kahului Airport’s runways and baggage claim areas. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kīlauea roundabout being constructed on Kūhiō Highway. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation is notifying drivers of a $12 million roundabout being constructed on Kūhiō Highway in Kilauea, which is planned to be completed late next year.  Kauai Now.

Green signs 22 health care bills, PUC allows HECO to sell assets, Democratic Party grand rally set for July 19, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green signs 22 bills addressing health care systems into law. Gov. Josh Green signed several bills related to health care and behavioral health into law Thursday — aligning with his administration’s social health care model, which encompasses not only traditional health care, but other societal issues like poverty alleviation, homelessness and more. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Maui Now.

PUC allows Hawaiian Electric to sell assets. The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission on Thursday finally answered Hawaiian Electric's request to sell accounts receivables to secure short-term financing. The answer is yes, but with conditions because Commissioners have some concerns. KITV4.

Naval war games partnership in Hawaii features 29 countries. The biennial Rim of the Pacific Exercise, the world’s largest recurring naval warfare exercise, kicked off in Hawaii this week as warships, aircraft and personnel from 29 countries gathered in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

State Expects Upcoming Energy Study To Answer Cost And Carbon Questions For Hawaii. The energy office is examining whether liquefied natural gas would be a practical replacement for low-sulphur fuel oil. Civil Beat.

Officials criticize Ag Department for invasive species management amid budget concerns. The department has been questioned about detailed planning and action to manage dangerous pests for months. Hawaii Public Radio.

Climate change-fueled hurricanes could harm Hawaiʻi's birds.  As climate change increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters like hurricanes, experts warn that birds will bear the brunt of these storms in varied and long-lasting ways. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i to receive more than $6.6 million in federal funding to build more housing. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Housing and Urban Development, on Wednesday announced Hawai‘i has been awarded more than $6.6 million in new federal grant funding to help build more housing. Big Island Now.

Hawaii visitor industry downturn to extend well past spring. The deals are up but travelers are way down for summer through the end of the year in Hawaii, especially on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai'i in the red for COVID positivity rate. Currently, Hawai'i is in the red for the COVID-19 disease, meaning the state has a high positivity rate.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Stadium developer’s exit is focus at board meeting. The withdrawal of one of two finalists for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District contract was the main topic of discussion at Thursday’s Stadium Authority meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Let Them Eat Zippy’s: Youth Correctional Facility Turns To Takeout To Address Cook Shortage. The facility's lengthy hiring process has made it difficult to hire cooks and increased its reliance on meals ordered from nearby restaurant chains. Civil Beat.

Leeward Oahu residents have praise, concerns over HECO program to cut power ahead of wildfire threats. HECO held a community informational meeting Thursday evening in Maili, where dry brush on hillsides can easily catch fire and threaten the neighborhoods below. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Homeless encampment under Makiki bridge prompts growing alarm. From stolen bikes to fires, neighbors are putting a spotlight on a homeless encampment in Makiki. The encampment is beneath the bridge on Anapuni Street. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Democratic Party Primary Grand Rally Set For July 19th In Hilo. Candidates vying for federal, state, and county offices will take the stage to share their visions for Hawai‘i’s future. Big Island Video News.

Shelter to open in Hilo: 25-bed facility for homeless will be located next to The Salvation Army. The shelter is scheduled to open in late August and will be located next to The Salvation Army Hilo Temple Corps., 219 Ponahawai St., for 12 overnight hours a day. Tribune-Herald.

Pride Festival returns, but no parade this year in downtown Hilo. The Hawaii Island LGBTQ+ Pride board made the difficult decision to forgo the parade and focus all efforts on the festival after the recent death of Pride advocate and community leader Greg Lupton. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A Long-Awaited Federal Report On The Cause Of The Lahaina Fire Is Just Waiting For Maui County To Release It. Maui officials do not have an estimated timeline for making the document public. Civil Beat.

Maui County awards contract to review Aug. 8 fire response. Maui awarded a contract Tuesday to an undisclosed company to review the response Opens in a new tab of the Maui Emergency Management Agency during the fatal Aug. 8 wildfires. Star-Advertiser.

Rebuilding Is Finally Getting Started In Lahaina’s Burn Zone. The restoration of sewer and water lines is coming along while most residential lots and many commercial properties have been cleared. Civil Beat. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

State to hold mortgage assistance event for those impacted by Maui wildfires. Banks with mortgages affected by the Maui fires will be face-to-face with their customers Friday and Saturday.  Hawaii News Now.

New parking policies, rates to take effect July 1 for Wailuku Garage parking. The County of Maui Department of Transportation announced the implementation of updated parking management policies at the Wailuku Garage, located at 30 N. Church St. in Wailuku town. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kapaʻa whale carcass originally planned to be left on shoreline will be buried. A cultural practitioner working with state environmental groups says there are now plans to bury the head of the decaying sperm whale that washed up on the shore outside the Sheraton Kauaʻi Coconut Beach Resort earlier this month, shifting from the initial decision to leave the carcass on the shoreline permanently.  Kauai Now.

Sheriff scandal grows, offshore wind farm slated for Oahu, 6 more COVID deaths reported, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Three deputy sheriffs arrested, 9 on paid leave amid criminal probes.  State deputy sheriffs arrested one of their own Wednesday on allegations of reckless endangering and harassment. It’s the third harassment arrest this month involving separate criminal investigations — with nine deputies now out on administrative leave. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Green plans to veto 3 bills aimed at emergency powers. Among the 17 bills that Gov. Josh Green intends to veto are three that would put new rules on his emergency powers as the Legislature continues to try to define how Hawaii governors should operate during crises. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Governor's intent-to-veto list includes invasive species and biosecurity bills. The $20 million “landmark” biosecurity bill to tackle invasive species in Hawaiʻi could get cut in half. Hawaii Public Radio.

State publishes Hawaii Digital Economy Survey. To gain a deeper understanding of how local companies utilize digital and broadband technology for their business operations, the Hawai’i Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Hawai’i Broadband and Digital Equity Office recently published its Hawai’i digital economy survey involving more than 1,000 businesses. Maui News. Maui Now.

Hawaii Health Department reports 6 more COVID deaths. The Hawaii Department of Health todayreported six additional COVID-related deaths, bringing the state’s COVID toll since the start of the pandemic to 2,183. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Downtown Honolulu electric grid upgrade will be long, disruptive.  It could take 10 years to fully upgrade downtown Honolulu’s underground electric cable network under a plan being accelerated after two disruptive outages over the past two weeks. Star-Advertiser.

New Project Seeks To Build Offshore Wind Farms In Kaiwi Channel. Aukahi Energy, a partnership between Progression Energy and EDF Renewables North America, is seeking approval to build floating offshore windmills north of the Kaiwi Channel, near Makapuu Point. If approved, the project will produce enough clean electricity to power around 300,000 homes, according to the company. Civil Beat.

Honolulu councilmembers discuss slower speed limits around schools. The City and County of Honolulu has published a draft of its plan to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2040. However, some want an even more aggressive approach. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Navy transferred 400 acres to the city. In the fine print, there’s reason for caution. After the base closed, the military left behind hazardous chemicals, unexploded ordnance and buried cultural and archeological sites. The Navy tried to identify and remediate some of the risks, but making it usable is up to the city. Hawaii News Now.

Some Honolulu airport parking rates go up on Monday. The rate for parking three or more hours at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport will increase from $9 to $10 on Monday. The new maximum daily rate will be $25, up from $24. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

How can Waikīkī adapt to rising sea levels? Researchers might have a way. A group of researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi is trying to give Waikīkī community members a glimpse into the future.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Scottish heritage group fights to save Falls of Clyde. The Scottish heritage group, Falls of Clyde International, is working to save and rebuild the historic vessel.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiian Electric to shut off power during high wind days to avoid risk of wildfires. Hawaiian Electric is launching a new program where it may preemptively shut off power for approximately 19,300 customers in high-wind areas on the Big Island that are at risk of wildfire during dry conditions. Big Island Now.

County seeks dismissal of pedestrian death lawsuit against HPD, cop. Hawaii County is requesting dismissal of a lawsuit seeking monetary damages from the Hawaii Police Department and an officer who was on duty and at the wheel of a blue-and-white cruiser that struck a 16-year-old boy who later died. Tribune-Herald.

EPA Is Investigating Wastewater Released Into Puhi Bay From Troubled Hilo Sewage Plant. The federal agency and state health officials will determine whether the aging facility violated its discharge permit and the Clean Water Act. Civil Beat.

Maui

Hawaii Attorney General seeks interview on 2018 Lahaina wildfire. The state Department of the Attorney General filed a motion Monday to force the director of the Maui Emergency Management Agency to answer questions about how he commanded the response to the 2018 West Maui fires fueled by Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Repair Or Retreat? An Ocean-Battered Maui Condo Complex Grapples With An Uncertain Future. Two of Kahana Sunset's six buildings are teetering near the water's edge while battling sinkholes and shaky foundations. It's now in the county's hands to decide what to do. Civil Beat.

Report: Half of Maui vacation rental units were vacant in May 2024. In May 2024, Maui County continued to have the largest supply of available vacation rental (TVR) units in the state, but occupancy rates for them were below half, at 49.5%, according to a report by the state Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Maui Now.

Kauai

Derek Kawakami finds common ground at annual mayors conference. Kauaʻi Mayor Derek Kawakami shared his takeaways after attending the annual U.S. Conference of Mayors in Kansas City, Missouri. Hawaii Public Radio.