State tax collections to take $125M hit while construction buoys economy, insurance costs cause condo sale slump, Health Department announces updated COVID vaccine availability, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Council On Revenues Projects Hawaii Tax Collections Will Be $125 M Less Than Expected. The forecast also said Hawaii is gradually recovering from the tourism slump triggered by last year's Maui wildfires, while the construction industry is booming. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii student debt relief program high on applicants but low on funds. A popular $30 million state program to pay off student loans to keep health care workers in Hawaii has run low on money, leaving organizers searching for new funding. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Health Department recommends updated COVID, flu, RSV vaccines. The Hawaii Department of Health is recommending residents get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines that are now available. On Aug. 22, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer and Moderna, which target the KP.2 variant that was circulating earlier this year. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.

Georgette Deemer dies at 71. She dedicated four decades to the state of Hawaii, serving in various roles in both the City & County and state government. KHON2.

Oahu

Hawai‘i’s Condo Insurance Crisis Is Now Hurting Sales. Sales fell 48% in Waikīkī and 38% in Makiki-Mō‘ili‘ili in June. Both neighborhoods have lots of underinsured, older condo buildings. Hawaii Business magazine.

City halfway through sweeping overhaul of Chinatown security camera system. Thirty of the 60 high-resolution cameras have been installed so far. The estimated cost for the full system is $980,000, with $450,000 coming from federal, state and local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Council wheels out e-bike measures. Two pieces of legislation meant to provide clearer safety standards and more regulation on the use of fast-moving electric bicycles on Oahu’s public roadways and sidewalks and in parks, rolled out of Honolulu Hale this week. Star-Advertiser.

Talks between nurses’ union, Kapi‘olani resume, but no deal reached. After another round of negotiations Thursday, the nurses’ union and management at the state’s largest hospital for women and children in Hawaii still have no agreed-upon contract. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Residents worry about concrete solutions for Wailupe Stream. Concerns over the future of Wailupe Stream which fishpond experts consider the last living major stream in East Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

HHS, HPD round up aggressive, stray dogs on bike path. Reports of loose and dangerous dogs on the Pearl Harbor bike path prompted response from the police department and humane society. KHON2. KITV4.

Waianae’s Keamo family pleaded for help with ‘Silva dome’ in 2021. The Keamo family, who lost three members in their neighbor’s violent rampage along Waianae Valley Road on Saturday night, had pleaded with state officials in 2021 to address their concerns about illegal and dangerous activity associated with the man’s nearby, unpermitted party venue business. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Standing granted for 3rd petitioner opposed to controversial proposed Punalu‘u development. The Hawai‘i County Windward Planning Commission on Thursday granted standing to a third organization for a contested case hearing involving a proposed controversial $350 million residential and commercial community project adjacent to a popular Ka‘ū beach park. Big Island Now.

Hamakua Energy plans to convert power plant to 100% renewable fuels. A Honokaa power plant that provides about a third of the electrical power for the island is planning an upgrade. Tribune-Herald.

General Plan Meetings Set For September, October. Multiple community meetings and an online webinar will take place this month. The plan goes before the Windward and Leeward Planning Commissions in November. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Controversial Monster Home Goes On Sale For $13 Million In West Maui. A real estate listing for the compound that triggered years of bitter feuds with neighbors comes with a warning: "Buyer to do their own Due Diligence." Civil Beat.

Housing and Land Use Committee meeting canceled due to technical issues. Housing and Land Use Committee Chair Tasha Kama announced that Thursday's committee meeting was canceled because automated email notifications were not sent when the meeting agenda was posted. Maui Now.

Emergency permits in motion to remove Baldwin Beach Park pavilion. The County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation announced it has applied for emergency Shoreline Management Area (SMA) permits to remove the Baldwin Beach Park pavilion, which has been damaged over time by high surf and rising sea levels. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Norovirus confirmed as cause of illness for campers on popular Kaua‘i trail. The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health laboratory results confirmed norovirus as the cause of illness reported by numerous campers at the Kalalau Section of the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kaua‘i. Kauai Now.

Resurfacing work on roadway scheduled in Kapa‘a. A portion of Ulu Street in Kapa‘a will be closed for resurfacing work starting on Sept. 9. The road will be closed till Sept. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. One lane will remain open to accommodate alternating traffic in both directions. Kauai Now.

Lahaina hosts congressional hearing on federal wildfire response, Honolulu council seeks more water testing, Hawaii Gas asked to release emissions reports, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Congressional hearing in Lahaina examines federal response. Select members of the U.S. House Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce held the hearing Wednesday to assess what has been done well and perhaps not as well to help Maui recover from the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfires that killed 102 people and destroyed most of Lahaina town. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4. Civil Beat.

DARPA sheds light on peculiar drone spotted off Hawaii. Officials with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) have confirmed that the unmanned drone spotted off Waikiki on Friday, Aug. 30 is designed for energy-harvesting. KHON2.

Local environmental group calls on Hawaiʻi Gas to release emissions data. Life of the Land has intervened in Hawaiʻi Gas' rate case before the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission.  Hawaii Public Radio.

New report: ‘Power Pivot — Transitioning Hawaiʻi Gasoline Superusers to Electric Vehicles’. Released by Ulupono Initiative and Coltura, the paper focuses on these superusers, which account for approximately 65,000, or 6.8%, of the state’s drivers. The superusers have extensive and costly driving habits, often exceeding 40,000 miles annually, compared to the non-superusers average of 8,500 miles annually. Collectively, these superusers consume nearly 26% of Hawaiʻi’s gasoline. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi chief economist shares insights from decades of data collection. Hawaiʻi Chief Economist Eugene Tian gave us the context of the 1,187-page Data Book, which the state has been compiling every year for about 60 years.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Council OKs resolution for more water testing. The Honolulu City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday urging the Navy and Department of Defense to immediately implement weekly testing of monitoring wells related to past fuel spills at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility.  Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

HART Scrambles To Free Up Cash For Rail’s Push Into The City Center. Other work may be delayed because a $1.66 billion bid was $300 million more than the rail authority had budgeted. Civil Beat.

Kapi‘olani threatens lockout of union nurses. Management at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children on Wednesday said after receiving a second strike notice from the nurses union, it is prepared to impose a lockout. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4.

Waianae attacker threatened to shoot his victims’ family twice before, an attorney says. The 59-year-old man fatally shot Saturday night after he rammed his neighbor’s home with a front loader and shot and killed three women had threatened gun violence against his victims’ family twice before, an attorney representing a family member says. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Authorities seize 42 gambling machines in suspected game room raid in Makiki. Officers seized 42 gambling machines and thousands of dollars in cash in a game room raid in Makiki Wednesday evening, according to Honolulu police officials. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Ohana housing bill advances: Council bill would create more options for ‘accessory dwelling units’.  Bill 123 is one of several measures discussed by the council this year aimed at updating rules regarding short-term vacation rentals. Tribune-Herald.

4 Big Island men charged with illegally taking lobsters. The men, all divers, were cited for misdemeanor violations with the taking of female lobsters and eggs — which are known as roe — after DLNR officers conducted an inspection on the vessel Law and Disorder III upon its return to its slip at Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

UH Maui Wildfire Study gets $2.3M to build comprehensive survivor registry. The University of Hawaiʻi’s Maui Wildfire Exposure Study has received a boost of funding from the state. The additional $2.3 million will allow the study to increase its participant base to 2,000 individuals, focusing on children and first responders. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui News.

Kula Community Association to host Candidate Forum, Sept. 11. This event will feature candidates running for Senate, House, and Maui County Council offices covering nine races. The event offers a platform for candidates to present their views and respond to questions. Maui Now.

60 refurbished computers distributed by MEO at no cost to recipients.  For some, the refurbished laptop given to them at no cost was their first computer. For others, the laptops replaced ones burned in the wildfires. Maui Now.

Kauai

Dozens of campers fall ill to suspected norovirus, Kalalau Valley closed. Kalalau Valley is a popular camping destination off the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kaua‘i. At full capacity, the campsite accommodates up to 80 people. With the nearest restrooms being closed to the public, campers said available restrooms were about a quarter mile down the beach. KHON2.

‘A guiding light for our keiki:’ Youth development program Kaua‘i Sea Scouts celebrates 15 years. The Kaua‘i Sea Scouts is a youth development program founded in 2009 by father-and-son team Larry and Max Richardson.  Kauai Now.

4.5k units get building exemptions under emergency proclamation, Mallory named Deputy Adjutant General, state has no 'stand your ground' law to protect man who shot Waianae attacker, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brig. Gen. Phillip Mallory Named Next Deputy Adjutant General. Brig. Gen. Mallory, currently the commander of the 154th Wing, Hawaiʻi Air National Guard, will succeed Brig. Gen. Stephen Logan on October 1st. Big Island Video News. Maui Now.

4,500 affordable residential units secure building exemptions under emergency proclamation. Nine affordable housing projects, decided by the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance & Development Corporation director, have received building exemptions through the governor’s proclamation.So far, over 4,500 units on Oʻahu, Kauaʻi and Maui have received building exemptions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Thousands of local hotel workers begin strike after talks stall with top chains. Strike lines are up at eight Hawaiʻi hotels — seven on Oʻahu and one on Kauaʻi.  Hawaii Public Radio. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu businesswoman Kim Coco Iwamoto is shaking up Hawaii politics. Video Only. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

State law required arrest of Waianae attacker’s killer, HPD Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan says. Responding to questions about why the man who stopped his neighbor’s deadly rampage was arrested, Logan spoke generally about self-defense, saying Hawaii is not a “stand-your-ground state.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

‘Silva dome’ linked to attacker in Waianae was unpermitted. The city Department of Planning and Permitting has investigated at least 20 community complaints over the past two decades related to the house involved in Saturday’s Waianae Valley Road shooting. Star-Advertiser.

Some Small Businesses In Kailua Town Are Closing As Costs Continue To Climb. Restaurateurs say the challenges they face are more complex than simply high rents. Civil Beat.

City rolls out CORE bus to curb Honolulu homelessness. CORE workers will drive the bus to encampments, parks, beaches and surrounding areas to identify, evaluate and transport the unsheltered to the city’s Leahi or Aala respite center and shelter, when homeless people agree to accept such help, city officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4.

Kapi‘olani nurses give notice of planned 1-day strike. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association on Tuesday filed 10 days’ notice that its 600 nurses at Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women &Children will strike again Sept. 13. It would be a one-day strike on a Friday.  Star-Advertiser.

DLNR reports 14 hikers arrested at Haiku Stairs. The 14 hikers were arrested by Honolulu police over the past six days, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. All face criminal trespassing charges. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

New call center fails inspection. The long-delayed opening of the Hawaii County Emergency Call Center has been pushed back once again because the facility on July 29 failed a building inspection. Tribune-Herald.

Roadside vendors bill stalls. A County Council committee on Tuesday once again postponed a decision about Bill 184, which would establish a process for people to apply for a permit to sell wares on county roads, after council members raised several more questions about how the process would work. Tribune-Herald.

New NAS Swimming Pool facility opens to the public. After more than four years, the Hilo pool reopened Tuesday morning after a quick ceremony and blessing followed by recreational swimming time. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

HCF, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez donate $2.128M to purchase fire trucks for the Maui County Fire Department. The Hawai‘i Community Foundation announced the award of $2.128 million to the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation, to be used for the purchase of four new fire trucks for the Maui Fire Department.  Maui Now.

Climate Advocates Want Tourists To Rent Electric Vehicles. Maui Shows Why That’s Hard. Transitioning rental car fleets to EVs could help the state meet its ambitious energy goals, but "range anxiety" leaves customers concerned about making it around the island. Civil Beat.

Mandatory water restriction in place for Central Maui residents. According to BWS officials, under a stage one shortage declared Tuesday, residents and businesses in 11 areas are only allowed to irrigate their properties two days a week. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Organizers push for public shoreline access in West Maui, removal of beachfront condos. A legal battle is brewing over an effort to save beachfront condos in West Maui that were built in the '70s and are now threatened by erosion. KITV4.

Kauai

Suspected norovirus among 24 campers results in closure of popular Kaua‘i trail. The Kalalau Section of the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park on Kaua‘i is closed after an illness, suspected to be the norovirus, has made numerous campers ill. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Immediate water conservation request issued for Princeville area customers. The order was issued by Princeville Utilities Co. Inc. Additionally, the Kaua‘i County Department of Water is asking its customers located on Anini Road, Kalihiwai Valley Estates and a portion of Kuhio Highway, near Hanalei Plantation Road, to abide by the conservation request. Kauai Now.

Maui fire recovery, pandemic hazard pay strain state budget, Green leads delegation to Japan, Blangiardi signs bill increasing grants to developers of affordable housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor: Hawaii Can Pay The Bills For Maui Fire Recovery, Hazard Pay And More. The administration has not yet released a budget plan for covering those costs, but the governor says it can be done without tapping into the rainy day fund. Civil Beat.

Maui judge agrees to ask state Supreme Court about barriers to $4B wildfire settlement. Judge Peter Cahill on Maui agreed Friday to ask the state high court questions about how insurance companies can go about recouping money paid to policyholders. Associated Press.

Disaster insurance drove billions in revenue for companies. Hawaii homeowners and businesses have purchased nearly $38 billion in disaster insurance over the last 20 years, generating more than $23 billion in net income for insurance companies and further driving Gov. Josh Green to insist that insurers be barred from suing the entities responsible for last year’s Maui wildfires, including the state. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Transportation Department holds fate of Alaska-Hawaiian merger. Two weeks have passed since the proposed $1.9 billion merger between competitors Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines cleared what is traditionally considered its most significant regulatory hurdle. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Gov. Green travels to Japan to strengthen ties with sister cities. Green will also lead a delegation of local businesses for the Tokyo International Gift Show, meet with the US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, and will meet with leaders from Fukuoka, Ehime and Hiroshima prefectures. Maui Now.

In first interview since losing election, Hawaii's house speaker Scott Saiki discusses long career in politics. Video Only. Hawaii News Now.

UH developed, living coastal-protection system prepares for deployment. The University of Hawaiʻi has reached a milestone in the US Department of Defense funded project that aims to create a living breakwater system to protect coastlines from erosion and create ecosystems where resilient corals and other ocean life can grow and thrive. Maui Now.

Oahu

New Honolulu law aims to spur affordable rental construction. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 3 to increase post-construction grant amounts for privately financed rental housing projects, deemed a key incentive for developers trying to make projects financially feasible, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Board to review CEO’s contract on Friday, HART says. The next employment agreement for Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s executive director and CEO, Lori Kahikina, is set for possible approval later this week. Star-Advertiser.

City unveils plans to alter Oahu’s livable landscape to match population growth. Pearl City residents got to see the city’s ambitious plan to reshape their neighborhood. It includes replacing rundown buildings with new high-rises over the next 16 years. Hawaii News Now.

A Wave Of Westside Shootings Has People Saying ‘Enough Is Enough.’ But What More Can Be Done? Honolulu police promised to step up officer patrols in the area, where residents have long felt neglected by city services.  Neighbors’ complaint about speeding cars set off Waianae man’s deadly rampage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Kapi‘olani Medical Center nurses vote to go on strike again. The Hawaii Nurses’ Association, which represents 600 Kapi‘olani nurses, said Sunday night that its members voted by an overwhelming majority to give the union the green light to call for a walkout if a contract cannot be reached with Hawaii Pacific Health, which operates Kapi‘olani. Star-Advertiser.

Assets School is granted $1.25 million for tuition aid. Assets School, the only K-12 school in Hawaii specializing in educating children who are gifted, dyslexic or have other language-­based learning differences, has received an anonymous $1.25 million donation to support tuition assistance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Gov. Green Fills Hawaii House of Representatives Vacancy. Matthias Kusch will represent Hamakua, Kaumana and parts of Hilo on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

Overnight Safe Space opens in Hilo. The Hilo Overnight Safe Space is a 25-bed outdoor tent at the Salvation Army’s facility downtown on Ponahawai Street.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Conservation groups say Hawaiʻi Supreme Court aquarium fishing ruling will hurt ecosystem.  The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on Wednesday approved the legality of an environmental review to allow limited aquarium fishing around Hawaiʻi Island, leading to concerns about opening up the industry throughout the West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area. Hawaii Public Radio.

State’s high court to hear arguments over release of new evidence in Dana Ireland murder case. The Hawaii Supreme Court has set Sept. 12 as the date to hear oral arguments in the legal battle over evidence in the high profile 1991 murder of Dana Ireland. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Council refers accessory dwelling bill to Housing and Land Use Committee. Maui County Council members referred to the Housing and Land Use Committee on Tuesday a bill stemming from a new state law that requires counties to change the way accessory dwellings are permitted on residential property. Maui Now.

Maui Is Fully Reopening 2 Lahaina Neighborhoods For First Time Since The Fires. The county says Wahikuli and Mala no longer present a safety or health risk to justify restricted access. Civil Beat.

Initiative works to keep Lahaina lands in local hands. The Lahaina Community Land Trust helps local residential property owners avoid selling their Lahaina land and buys  property from owners who are committed to sell and then buys the property to perpetually house local families. Star-Advertiser.

Storm rainfall brings little relief to Maui’s southside; drought conditions persist. Leslie Peterson, nursery manager of the South Maui Garden in Kihei, said the recent rainfall that hit Maui last week from storm system Gilma was nothing short of a blessing. Maui News.
 
Kauai

Kauai fishpond’s restoration is recognized. Scores of volunteers have been sweating and toiling in the mud the past five years to restore the Alakoko fishpond on Kauai, one of the last remaining ponds built by Native Hawaiians some 600 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tourist fee for climate impact likely to be revisited, Honolulu city auditor resigns, short-term rental phase-out remains in Maui Community Plan update, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Is this the year a climate impact fee will pass in the state Legislature?  There could be a stronger push to pass Gov. Josh Green’s climate impact fee during the 2025 legislative session. Green has advocated for a fee to be imposed on every Hawaiʻi tourist since he was campaigning for governor. He said that money would fund projects related to climate change and the environment. Hawaii Public Radio.

Summer tourism bump going flat as fall nears. Softness has been present in Hawaii’s visitor industry since the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires, and even in July, Maui’s more than 20% drop in visitor arrivals and nearly 18% decrease in spending were dragging down the statewide tourism performance, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

UH gets $2M to join push for domestic semiconductor design and manufacturing. The semiconductor shortage during the pandemic opened the public’s eyes to the fact that those tiny chips are critical to worldwide infrastructure from cars to computers to cell phones. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu City Auditor Resigns Nearly Halfway Through Her 6-Year Term. Arushi Kumar, who was appointed to a six-year term in October 2021, said she is moving back to Seattle, citing “changing personal circumstances and family commitments.” Civil Beat.

Audit Calls Honolulu Police Commission’s Oversight ‘Inconsistent And Ineffective’.  The Honolulu Police Commission doesn’t fully address public concerns about accountability and transparency in HPD and did not follow up consistently with the department about recurring issues surrounding officers’ activation of body cameras, according to the city auditor. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HART’s $1.66 billion contract might delay related rail work, CEO says. Although it’s not been disclosed which projects might be postponed, HART plans that the City Center Guideway and Stations, or CCGS, contract will include design and construction of six rail stations and miles of elevated rail guideway beginning east of the Middle Street Transit Center station. Star-Advertiser.

Gun Violence On Oahu’s West Side Has Parents And Teachers Worried About School Safety. Some community members want to see retired police officers stationed on high school campuses, while others say after-school activities and mental health support would be more effective. Civil Beat.

Iwilei is getting more kauhale for the homeless. But residents say it’s unsafe and unfair. The state and City of Honolulu are working to get about 300 people off the streets by having three kauhale in Iwilei. But residents say it’s unsafe and unfair. Hawaii News Now.

Developer outlines plan for new residential units at Oahu's Turtle Bay. Arete Collective purchased 65 acres of land from the Turtle Bay Resort in April. It said it has already begun work on the first phase of its project, four low-rise buildings with 20 residential units. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Registration pending for plane that crashed, records show. The Federal Aviation Administration’s records show that ownership registration was pending for the Cessna that crash-landed Wednesday close to the Upolu Airport near Hawi on Hawaii island’s North Kohala coast. Star-Advertiser.

Gilma Dissipates Less Than 200 Miles East Northeast Of Hilo. The remnants of Gilma – once a major hurricane – are moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph, and forecasters say this motion is expected to continue over the next couple of days.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Short-term rental phase-out remains in South Maui Community Plan update. Maui Planning Commission members breezed by a proposed policy statement in the draft South Maui Community Plan update Tuesday evening, agreeing by consensus that the plan would aim to increase long-term residential housing by phasing-out short-term rentals from Māʻalaea to Kanaio. Maui Now.

Former Maui homeless shelter resident says it’s safer and cleaner to live out on the streets. Drugs, overdoses, and deaths are just a few of the complaints emerging from a homeless shelter on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Visitation to Maui at highest level last month since August of 2023. Maui has seen an increase in visitors for the month of July, compared to July 2023, and an increase in visitor spending.  Maui News.

9 month road closure of Kekaulike Ave. near Mile 8.2 begins Sept. 3. Goodfellow Bros. will begin performing road work on Kekaulike Ave. at Mile 8.2 on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024. A Full road closure will be in effect for this construction area for the next nine months.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi County considers bill to add $200 surcharge for illegal highway parking. Kauaʻi could soon start giving police money to enforce illegal parking or stopping on state highways. The Kauaʻi County Council has introduced a bill to tap into the State Highway Enforcement Program Surcharge Fund, which was established in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Most surf sites test clean in August. A monthly analysis of streams, rivers and surf spots around the island found high concentrations of enterococcus bacterium — a federally recognized indicator of fecal presence in water — at a number of locations. Garden Island.

‘The canoe will never leave you:’ Hōkūleʻa sets sail after two-week stay on Kaua‘i. Hōkūleʻa is now headed to Haleʻiwa on the North Shore of O‘ahu. Kauai Now.

State Supreme Court clears the way for aquarium trade to ply West Hawaii coast, Green blasts insurance company for failing to settle Maui claims, FEMA awards another $7.9M in disaster relief, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court clears path for aquarium fish collection permits.  The Hawaii Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled 4-1 that the pet industry’s environmental review of commercial aquarium fish collection in West Hawaii is legally adequate, permitting the state Board of Land and Natural Resources to consider reopening nearly the entire West Hawaii coastline to this practice — which has historically removed hundreds of thousands of native fish from the state’s reefs each year. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Green blasts State Farm for refusing to settle Maui claims. Green called out the insurance industry’s “terrible, terrible greed” for holding up a proposed $4.037 billion “global settlement” that would resolve over 650 claims and lawsuits in the aftermath of the wildfire that killed 102 people and destroyed nearly 4,000 structures, most of them homes. Instead of addressing sea-level rise and climate change, Green now wants income from a proposed visitor impact fee to help the state provide its own insurance to victims of future disasters following the Aug. 8, 2023, Maui wildfires. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates push for Hawaii constitutional amendment to secure marriage equality. Hawaii voters are going to be faced with some decision making come Nov. 5. It will be Ballot Question No. 1, which asks voters to approve a constitutional amendment to protect the freedom for anyone to marry in Hawaii – including same-sex marriage, which is already legal here in the state. KITV4.

United flight attendants OK strike, but feds get the final say. Union members picketed Wednesday at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport as part of systemwide Day of Action picket called “Unleashing our Power” that took place at 19 airports. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Tropical Storms Gilma, Hector weakening. Gilma crossed into the Central Pacific and, as of 5 p.m. Tuesday, was about 775 miles east of Hilo, packing maximum sustained winds of 50 mph with locally higher gusts, and moving west at 13 mph. Tribune-Herald. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Drinking water expert, residents concerned about lead detections in Navy tap.  Nearly a decade ago, Elin Betanzo helped uncover the lead contamination in Flint, Michigan. She was hired by a community group called the Red Hill Community Representation Initiative, to look at the Navy’s drinking water data following its 2021 fuel spills. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Chief Just Got A Good Job Review But Many Employees Think Otherwise. The "disconnect" between the police commission and police employees has raised concerns from the police union to the mayor. Civil Beat.

Suspended sheriff’s deputy allegedly pressured before death. A 32-year-old sheriff’s deputy found dead in his apartment Monday was allegedly being pressured about his role in an incident that led to him and four other deputies having their police powers restricted in June, according to an email sent Tuesday to the entire Department of Law Enforcement written by another of the suspended deputies. Star-Advertiser.

Blessing held for long-awaited lifeguard tower in Kailua. The new tower will be staffed with five full-time lifeguards seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., offering more coverage for the north side of the popular 2.5-mile shoreline along Kailua Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Sharks Cove parking lot reopens after emergency wall repairs. The Sharks Cove parking lot at Pupukea Beach Park reopened after an emergency project to mitigate the distressed retaining wall in the area. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Helicopter Companies Push To Reopen New Plan Restricting Air Tours Over Volcanoes Park. The air tour management plan for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is meant to address noise and environmental concerns. The industry says the new rules compromise safety. Civil Beat.

‘Hobbit House’ and others hit hard by Hone. A well-known house in Ka‘u that was once a bed-and-breakfast sustained major flood damage as Tropical Storm Hone passed to the south of the Big Island over the weekend. Tribune-Herald. KHON2.

Plane Makes Emergency Landing Near Upolu Airport. A small Cessna airplane made an emergency landing south of Upolu Airport in North Kohala on Wednesday. The pilot was treated at the scene for a minor injury and released, officials say. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Economic Director’s Business Associate Got Contracts From Her County Office. Luana Mahi may have recused herself from decisions involving the contracts but she still signed off or recommended approval of contracts. Civil Beat.

FEMA awards additional $7.9M in Disaster Case Management funding to expand recovery support for Maui wildfire survivors. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded an additional $7.9 million in funding to the Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services to expand the state’s Disaster Case Management Program.  Maui Now.

Owner fights back after maintenance fees demanded for destroyed condo in Lahaina. A former Maui lawmaker says she is getting demand letters to pay maintenance fees for her condominium that was destroyed in the Lahaina disaster. Hawaii News Now.

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows reopens, debuts new oceanfront restaurant and pool bar. The Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows in Kāʻanapali is open once again, following 10 months of providing refuge to Lahaina residents in need. Maui Now.

The Maui News announces leadership change. Chris Minford will step down as publisher of The Maui News Sept. 3. Minford has worked at the newspaper for 36 years, including the last four as publisher. Jenni DeFouw, a newspaper industry veteran who most recently served as the advertising sales manager for the Steamboat Pilot & Today in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, has been named as general manger and advertising director of The News. Maui News.

Kauai

Hundreds of people attend 26th annual Governor’s Luncheon on Kauai. Gov. Josh Green spoke before an audience of more than 300 people at the 26th annual Governor’s Luncheon at the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024. The event was hosted by the Kauai Chamber of Commerce. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Online survey for East Kaua‘i Community and Circulation plan extended. The East Kaua‘i Community and Circulation Plan will guide the growth and development of the region over the long term and is designed to build on the County’s General Plan, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of the East Kaua‘i district. Kauai Now.

Counties grapple with building code changes as affordable housing grants flow in, storms Gilma and Hector expected to weaken, bring weekend rain, newspaper puts the AI in Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

As stakeholders navigate building code updates, counties bear the burden. Gov. Josh Green's emergency housing proclamation, issued last July, suspended the State Building Code Council. As a result, the 2021 international codes were adopted by the state last month without changes. Hawaii Public Radio.

HECO and KIUC submit plans to strengthen infrastructure against natural disasters. Hawaiʻi's two big electricity providers have filed plans with the Public Utilities Commission about what they are doing to prepare for natural disasters. Hawaii Public Radio.

Storms Gilma and Hector to weaken, bring rain to start the holiday weekend. The latest hurricane center forecasts show that tropical cyclones Gilma and Hector are weakening as they move closer. KHON2. Hawaii News Now.  Star-Advertiser.

DOE contracts with Roberts Hawaii for school bus drivers to expire in October. The State made three contracts to find a solution to the school bus driver shortage. This provides school bus service to students on the Big Island, Maui and Oahu. KITV4.

Young UH-Manoa voters have little enthusiasm for the presidential race. Young voters could play a critical role in deciding who will be America’s next president, but as a new school year begins at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, there’s little enthusiasm in any big way ahead of Nov. 5. Star-Advertiser.

Trump to put Tulsi Gabbard, RFK Jr. on his transition team. Former President Donald Trump plans to name his former rival, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Hawaii’s Tulsi Gabbard, a one-time Democrat, as honorary co-chairs of a presidential transition team that will help him select the policies and personnel of any second Trump administration, according to a campaign senior adviser. New York Times.

Water commission leader is named following wildfire-related controversy. An attorney with complex litigation experience is positioned to be the next administrator of state water resources more than a year after controversy related to the Lahaina wildfire led to the reassignment, reinstatement and resignation of a predecessor. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lawyer: Hawaii Prisoner Who Was Stabbed Repeatedly In Arizona Must Be Moved. Myles Breiner says his client fears for his life after being stabbed dozens of times in an alleged gang attack at the Saguaro Correctional Center. Civil Beat.

Oahu

$10M in incentives available for affordable housing developers under new law. In an effort to get more affordable housing built, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed Bill 3 into law to offer more incentives for owners and developers. KHON2.

State grants contract for Oʻahuʻs 1st teacher workforce housing development. The 109-unit project will be built on the Mililani High School campus for teachers making up to 120% of the state’s annual median income. Hawaii Public Radio.

BWS Consultants: Thousands Of Navy Water Tests After The Red Fuel Leak Are Invalid. Residents who use the water system affected by that spill say the experts' findings support their concerns that there's still something in the water. Civil Beat.

UH researchers granted $4.2M to take on Hawaiʻi’s clean energy needs. A $4.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation will allow a team led by University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa researchers to tackle clean energy needs on multiple fronts, from sustainable solutions and integrating Native Hawaiian knowledge to engaging with high school students. Kauai Now.

Bikinis, surfboards and battle-axes? Hawaii loosens long-strict weapons laws after court ruling. Hawaii’s tourist hotspot of Waikiki is known for bikinis, shopping and surfboards. But resident Andrew Roberts has recently introduced a different item on evening walks through his neighborhood: a long-poled battle-axe. Associated Press.

Former homeless outreach center becomes encampment hotspot in Wahiawa. A facility in Wahiawa that was initially opened to get homeless individuals off the streets is now a hotspot for illegal encampments. Residents said ever since the nonprofit Achieve Zero closed its doors in December, it’s become a place for squatters and suspicious activity. Hawaii News Now.

3 face federal charges in game room robbery. Three men are facing federal charges after they allegedly robbed an illegal gambling operation on Kawaiahao Street at gunpoint early Thursday morning. Star-Advertiser.

Man indicted for allegedly shooting boy, 16, riding TheBus. An Oahu grand jury indicted a 19-year-old man for attempted murder after he allegedly shot a 16-year-old Farrington High School student on Aug. 9 who was riding TheBus after school, according to the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Schofield soldier faces 3 charges in pregnant wife’s disappearance. A 28-year-old Schofield Barracks soldier, who is the husband of a missing 19-year-old pregnant woman, is facing three charges, the U.S. Army in Hawaii announced Tuesday in a news release. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Safe Space, mobile kitchen to be unveiled Friday at Salvation Army.  Funded through $1.8 million in state and county money, the Hilo Overnight Safe Space will house up to 25 homeless individuals each night at the Salvation Army’s Ponahawai Street location. Tribune-Herald.

Death of Ocean View man by dog mauling led to stronger state penalties for owners of uncontrolled vicious animals. A year after four dogs viciously attacked 71-year-old Bob Northrop while he was out for a walk, the animalsʻ owners Kalani Burgher and Keli Toyama were charged with negligent failure to control a dangerous dog and will face a judge in the case on Sept. 5 in Kona District Court. Big Island Now.

Maui

Queen Kaʻahumanu Center change of zoning gets final Council approval for redevelopment. Maui County Council members approved on second-and-final reading Tuesday land use measures to pave the way for redevelopment of Queen Kaʻahumanu Center as it struggles amid a nationwide decline in brick-and-mortar shopping malls. Bills 67 and 68 advance to Mayor Richard Bissen for final action. Maui Now.

Government Bureaucracy Complicates Maui’s Response To Sea Level Rise. Conflicting guidance from permitting agencies makes it harder for the county to save or move roads threatened by the ocean. Civil Beat.

Corps of Engineers clearing debris from final three properties in Lahaina. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in partnership with federal, state, and local partners, announced that debris removal on the last single- and multi-unit residential properties in Lahaina is currently underway. Maui News.

Maui Woman sentenced to 10 years on prison for involvement in suspicious Central Maui fire. Krystale Kaneakua of Pukalani was sentenced to 10 years in jail on Tuesday by 2nd Circuit Court Judge Peter Cahill for second degree arson in connection with a five acre brush fire along the Maui Veterans Highway two years ago. Maui Now.

Kauai

AI-generated ‘TGI Today’ to launch on Thursday, Aug. 29. Caledo’s AI platform generates captivating studio shows featuring dialogues and interviews between avatars. Caledo will help The Garden Island revolutionize how it produces and distributes news to the communities it serves on the island of Kauai. Garden Island.

Fatal Kauai Helicopter Crash Intensifies Spotlight On Air Tour Industry. A week before the crash, one federal agency criticized another for allowing risky practices and inadequate communication in the Hawaii air tour industry. Civil Beat.

Green names new water resources chief, two more cyclones heading toward the state, more than 5k hotel workers vote to strike, Lahaina property prices spike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green Taps New Hawaii Water Resources Board Head After Kaleo Manuel’s Departure. Ciara Kahahane is poised to leave the state Attorney General's office to serve as the board's new first deputy. Civil Beat.

Tropical cyclones coming to Hawaii at peak of season. As Tropical Storm Hone moves away from the Hawaiian Islands, two more tropical cyclones — Hurricane Gilma and Tropical Storm Hector — are approaching, though their impacts might not be as severe. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s visitor industry faces threat of hotel, airline strikes. More than 5,000 workers have authorized a strike at the Sheraton Kauai Resort and seven Waikiki hotels: the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort; Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort &Spa; Moana Surfrider — a Westin Resort Spa; The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort; Sheraton Princess Kaiulani; Sheraton Waikiki; and the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort &Spa. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Tulsi Gabbard, who ran for 2020 Democratic nomination, endorses Trump against former foe Harris. Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential bid, furthering her shift away from the party she sought to represent four years ago and linking herself to the GOP nominee’s critiques of Vice President Kamala Harris and the chaotic Afghanistan War withdrawal. Associated Press.

From surfing buddies to eco innovators: how expired life vests became ‘The Surf Bag’. What began as a quest to enjoy longer surf sessions has evolved into a groundbreaking product: The Surf Bag, crafted from expired Hawaiian Airlines life vests. KHON2.

Oahu

Low morale, poor communication among complaints by HPD officers in internal survey. HPD survey praises leadership, questions communication. The Honolulu Police Department posted 111-page-long “2024 Commander Performance Survey Results” that detail optimism and frustration about morale, equipment and operations under the leadership of Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu EMS Sued For Wrongful Death Over Kailua Ambulance Fire. Family of the 91-year-old patient who died in 2022 after the ambulance in which he was riding burst into flames accused Honolulu EMS of wrongful death and negligence. Civil Beat.

$2.5 million electric vehicle charging station breaks ground at Aloha Tower. On Monday, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced the construction of the second electric vehicle charging station under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. KHON2.

'A mechanism for moving forward': Neglected Pearl City cemetery sees glimmer of hope. Sinking graves. Crumbling crypts. Stolen urns. These are a short list of ongoing problems facing Sunset Memorial Park in Pearl City. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

$10.5 million available for homeless programs. Since 2022, Hawaii County has set aside 75% of certain residential property tax revenues to fund programs addressing homelessness on the Big Island through the Office of Housing and Community Development’s Homelessness and Housing Fund. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i County still dealing with aftermath of Hone with prolonged power outages. With approximately 1,900 Hawaiian Electric customers experiencing prolonged power outages following Hurricane Hone, Hawai‘i County has opened two shelters. Big Island Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Hone: Heavy rains, strong winds, but more hassle than harm. Tropical Storm Hone didn’t hit Hawaii Island directly, but did leave its calling card over the weekend in the form of heavy rainfall and gusty winds. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Contested case delays long-awaited vote on Hawaiʻi Island aquarium fishing permits. On Friday, the Board of Land and Natural Resources was scheduled to vote on the proposed structure for a controversial West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area permit, which covers the entire western coast of the island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui’s New Coastal Rules Are Full Of Loopholes, Environmental Group Says. In a lawsuit, Maui Tomorrow rejects the regulations as essentially toothless, but the county says they will expedite permitting and avoid unnecessary hurdles. Civil Beat.

'Problematic': Lahaina lots listed for thousands more than pre-fire value. Members of the Lahaina Community Land Trust worry the much-resisted concern could soon become a reality as several leveled lots were recently listed for thousands of dollars higher than what they were appraised for before the tragedy. KITV4.

Milestone reached with debris removal underway on last single- and multi-unit residential properties in Lahaina. The US Army Corps of Engineers in partnership with federal, state, and local partners, announced that debris removal on the last single- and multi-unit residential properties in Lahaina is underway. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the Personal Property Debris Removal Program, as all residential properties will be cleared months ahead of the original January 2025 deadline. Maui Now.

Public invited to comment on cleanup of 700-gallon fuel spill at Haleakalā. The public can now weigh in on cleanup of a fuel spill atop Haleakalā. The 2023 fuel spill was caused by a lightning strike to an emergency generator.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Kauai Community College enrollment up 11.9 percent for fall semester. Kauai Community College opened its doors to the fall semester on Monday with an opening day census of 1,277 students. Garden Island.

Maui hotel booking decline could cost state $40M in taxes, insurance industry wants Hawaii Supreme Court to step in over wildfire payment dispute, Hone sweeps past state after dumping needed rain, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Decline in Maui room bookings could cost the state more than $40 million in taxes. The dampening in travel sentiment for Maui is bringing down tourism statewide and is a key reason Hawaii visitor industry executives appealed to the Hawaii Tourism Authority Board to add $1.6 million to the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau marketing budget to conduct a marketing saturation campaign Sept. 15-22 in Los Angeles, Hawaii’s top source market for visitors. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Insurance Industry Insists It Has Right To Recoup Billions In Paid Wildfire Claims. Victims’ lawyers want the Hawaii Supreme Court to step in. They have asked Maui Judge Peter Cahill to let the high court determine the question central to his ruling, and want the insurance industry to join in on their request as a way to resolve the issue. Civil Beat.

Hawaii automobile sales plunge as owners hang on to vehicles. The dismal outlook comes after new-vehicle registrations plunged 11.8% in the second quarter to bring the midyear decline to 7%. By contrast, national auto sales were up 3.4% through the first six months. Star-Advertiser.

UHERO report spotlights rural health care needs. Rural area residents reported having more health challenges and limitations than their urban counterparts, according to the study produced by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Overall, they rated their health as poorer. Star-Advertiser.

Hone weakens to tropical storm and sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears. Hone passed south of Hawaii and weakened from a hurricane to a tropical storm on Sunday, dumping so much rain that the National Weather Service called off its red flag warnings that strong winds could lead to wildfires on the drier sides of the islands. Associated Press. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines adding Hilo flights Monday after cancellations due to Hone. Hawaiian Airlines has announced it will resume flights to and from Hilo and operate two additional flights between Honolulu and Hilo after several flights were canceled due to Hone. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Impending Legislature leadership change could do same for Kakaako landscape. Kakaako will have a new state House representative in January and new potential for residential high-rise development on poorly utilized land makai of Ala Moana Boulevard owned by the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

New Year’s Day shooting drives rise in attempts to harm police. There have been 21 cases of first-degree attempted murder of a law enforcement officer on Oahu so far this year compared to only three last year, according to the Honolulu Police Department’s data dashboard. Star-Advertiser.

Over 500 firearms collected at Oahu gun buyback event. Officials say they collected more than 500 firearms and numerous rounds of ammunition at the buyback at Aloha Stadium’s lower parking lot on Saturday. The guns and ammo were swapped for $100 and $200 dollar gift cards to Foodland. Hawaii News Now.

Many East Honolulu communities are at high fire risk. Due to its high density, topography and frequent human-­caused ignitions, East Honolulu is considered at moderate to high risk of wildfire, according to the recently published East Honolulu Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hurricane Hone brings heavy rain but no major damage. Hurricane Hone passed within 60 miles of Hawaii Island early Sunday, bringing heavy rain, knocking out power to thousands of customers and snapping native ohia trees like twigs. New York Times.

2 Big Island schools closed Monday due to hazardous road conditions. Ka‘u High & Paaala Elementary School and Na‘alehu Elementary School will be closed to students and staff Monday due to hazardous road conditions. Highway 11 has been shut down by emergency crews, making both campuses inaccessible to families and staff. Star-Advertiser.

Aquarium fishing proposal stalls: DAR seeks to start permit process for commercial fishers. At Friday’s meeting of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, the state Division of Aquatic Resources submitted a request to establish a process to grant permits to commercial aquarium fishers to operate in West Hawaii, something that hasn’t been allowed since 2017. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Faces $1.2 Billion In Unmet Needs For Wildfire Recovery Efforts. No specifics have been released, but the amount would help pay for costs that FEMA isn't authorized to cover. Civil Beat.

This Buddhist Temple Is Collapsing Into The Sea Off Maui. With nearby graves already swallowed by the ocean, sea level rise and coastal erosion are now threatening to destroy an iconic Zen mission and cemetery. Civil Beat.

Hotels on Maui woo back leisure travelers. While many Maui hotels, especially in West Maui, are transitioning back to a leisure travel and group business focus, the transition is more involved for the Royal Lahaina resort, which was all in until its contractual obligations ended at the end of June. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Lane closure scheduled on Kaua‘i highway to replace 3 culverts. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation will be closing a single lane on Kaumualiʻi Highway (Route 50) in the vicinity of Kīkīaola Boat Harbor next week to allow crews to permanently replace three 54-inch culverts. Kauai Now.

The Kaua‘i County Housing Agency’s Section 8 office will be closed from 7:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Sept. 4, to accommodate a staff training. Normal operation and hours will resume from 12:45 p.m. to 4 p.m., that day. Kauai Now.