Tulsi Gabbard faces rocky Senate confirmation as national intelligence director, Benioff funds Keaau medical center, teachers' school projects, embattled Kauai police chief announces retirement, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gabbard’s Past Could Complicate US Senate Confirmation. Trump’s nomination of former Hawaii congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to be national intelligence director is likely to renew questions about her beliefs and background. Gabbard, 43, also has significant baggage, notably her support for autocratic leaders like Vladimir Putin of Russia and Bashar al-Assad of Syria. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. National Public Radio.  KHON2. KITV4.

Hawaii Schools Superintendent could receive pay raise, contract extension. A Board of Education committee suggested a 4% salary increase for Keith Hayashi, which would raise his annual salary to $249,600, effective July 1, 2024. KHON2.

Lynne and Marc Benioff fund $2.5M for Hawaii public school teachers’ projects. The Hawaii Department of Education said the $2.5 million is part of a fall campaign that will go to more than 3,500 teachers at 268 campuses in Hawaii, including 251 public schools and 17 charter schools. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

This Remote Hawaiian Island Had Vanished. In early October 2018, a Category 3 storm ripped through this stretch of the Pacific Ocean, erasing East Island, battering nearby Tern Island and obliterating part of the unique and thriving reef system. Here’s Why Its Comeback Is Crucial. The storm destroyed a primary nesting site for endangered sea turtles and monk seals. East Island’s reemergence in this remote atoll has become an unexpected sign of resilience against climate change. Civil Beat.

Oahu

ACLU prepares to file suit against HPD, city over arrests of sober drivers at DUI checkpoints. The American Civil Liberties Union is demanding the Honolulu Police Department change arrest policies at DUI checkpoints or face a lawsuit. Hawaii News Now.

UH Cancer Center leader Dr. Naoto Uenoʻs own medical history drives his quest for expanded access. The UH Cancer Center recently renewed its National Cancer Institute designation, which it has maintained since 1996. Hawaii Public Radio.

How Kaimuki’s Queen Theater Went From Playhouse To Porn Hub. The former movie palace has languished for almost 40 years, prompting the Honolulu City Council to take steps toward condemning the valuable property. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Bill regarding home repairs passes. Small-scale home repairs could become easier to make if Mayor Mitch Roth signs a bill that exempts repair projects below a certain cost from needing a building permit. Tribune-Herald.

Kea‘au to get $60M health center. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff and wife Lynne, Big Island residents, recently pledged $25 million toward the project, and Gov. Josh Green, a physician, has pledged to work to secure a matching $25 million for construction. Tribune-Herald.

Skyrocketing parking costs in downtown Kona keeping residents away, hurting businesses. Over the past few years, the patchwork of parking lots along and around Kailua-Kona’s touristy Aliʻi Drive from King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort to Coconut Grove have drastically increased their parking rates, with some previously free places to park transitioning to pay lots. Big Island Now.

Hawaii appeals court hears case on State’s responsibility on Peter Boy’s death. Three years ago, Peter Boy’s surviving siblings and estate won a partial judgement in their wrongful death lawsuit, alleging the state failed to act on clear signs of abuse. A failure they believe led to his death.  KHON2.

Fire Weather Watch For Hawaiʻi, Power Shutoffs Possible. Dry fuels, low relative humidity and strong trade winds could result in critical fire weather conditions for leeward areas on Friday. Big Island Video News.

Maui

FEMA extends assistance to Maui survivors; Schatz asks for further aid. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved Hawaii’s request to extend Financial Assistance and Direct Temporary Housing Assistance for an additional year, now through Feb. 10, 2026. Star-Advertiser.

Kupuna who survived Maui wildfires offered affordable housing. The non-profit, J. Walter Cameron Center, is launching Na Hale Kupuna (NHK), an affordable housing project funded by Maui County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the federal CARES Act. NHK offers seven long-term condominium units in West, Central, and South Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Unplugging the Puʻunēnē Avenue bottleneck; relief ahead for Central Maui motorists. State Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen called the $25.5 million widening of the remaining portion of Puʻunēnē Avenue from two to four lanes a “capacity completion” project. Maui Now.

Some wish Lahaina’s 225-foot-high smokestack would be torn down. A preservation group is pushing to repair a near-century old relic of West Maui’s sugar plantation. Meanwhile, some critics wish the landmark would be torn down. Hawaii News Now.

Test plot growth at Maui Gold Pineapple ‘better than anticipated,’ sources say. About a year and a half ago, new owner Todd Domeck of Maui Gold Pineapple Company committed to completely eliminate fumigants from its practice and focus more on regenerative farming. Maui Now.

Kauai

Embattled Kauai police chief announces retirement. Faced with disciplinary proceedings and an investigation over alleged retaliation, the head of the Kauai Police Department is retiring next year. Chief Todd Raybuck announced his decision in an internal memo sent to the full department Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Fire weather watch in effect Friday for all leeward portions of state, including Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau. The combination of dry fuels, low relative humidity and strong trade winds could spark critical fire weather conditions for leeward sections of the state at the end of this week. Kauai Now.

Corteva sees the faces of hunger in Lihue. The group of representatives from Corteva Agriscience, including Yael Claussen, Kristen Ma and Archie Acoba were silent on Wednesday morning when they rolled into the Kauai Independent Food Bank loading area. Garden Island.

More than $72M for Hawaiian Home Lands broadband, Maui still trying to count ballots, popping wheelies could be outlawed in Honolulu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

DHHL receives over $72 million for broadband connectivity expansion. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has received a more than $72 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program to expand high-speed internet access for Native Hawaiian households. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Tribune-Herald.  Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii DOE Is Attempting To Rein In Bad Parent Behavior. The Hawaii Department of Education has released a new visitor code of conduct aimed at preventing violent and threatening behavior from parents after a school employee safety bill failed to pass last year.  Civil Beat.

UNITE HERE Local 5 expects to settle labor contracts for more than 5,000 hotel workers, or approximately half the union’s membership, by the end of this week with average earnings that keep up with inflation and make up for some past losses — a significant  gain that moves the union closer to its rallying cry, “One job should be enough.”  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City’s proposed fare changes for public transit are pending. Public transit fares on Oahu soon might go up for some riders due to a stated shortfall of $40 million. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Popping wheelies would become illegal under proposed law on Oahu. Councilmembers Radiant Cordero and Matt Weyer introduced Bill 61 on Nov. 7. The proposed legislation would outlaw balancing on the back wheels of motorcycles, e-bikes and mopeds. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii health officials detect bird flu in wastewater for first time. State health officials said Tuesday night that they have detected H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in wastewater test samples on Oahu. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Homicide is leading cause of death for pregnant women, experts say. Domestic violence experts are sounding the alarm after a Schofield soldier was charged for the murder of his pregnant wife. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Security equipment problems cause delays, missed flights at Hilo International Airport. Lorie Dankers, spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, didn’t offer more detail into the problems with malfunctioning equipment, how often it happens or what the federal security agency is doing to fix the machines. Big Island Now.

World’s largest active volcano Mauna Loa showed telltale warning signs before erupting in 2022. About two months before Mauna Loa spewed rivers of glowing orange molten lava, geologists detected small earthquakes nearby and other signs, and they warned residents on Hawaii’s Big Island. Now a study of the volcano’s lava confirms their timeline for when the molten rock below was on the move. Associated Press.

Disease Could Kill Most of The Big Island’s ‘Ohi‘a Forests Within 20 Years. Inside the race to save the tree supporting Hawaii’s flora, fauna and culture. Ultimately, saving the ‘ohi‘a, a plant unique to Hawaii on which thousands of other plant and animal species depend to survive, will require more money. Civil Beat.

Despite soggy end, October registers average to below average rainfall. Low-pressure systems affecting Hawaii Island in the second half of last month gave the impression of a wetter-than-usual October, but most Big Island rain gauges logged average or slightly below-average rainfall for the month. Tribune-Herald.

Feedback sought for HPP park. Construction of  Hawaiian Paradise Park's first public park could begin in two years, and a draft environmental assessment published last week is the latest step in the project’s development. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Clerk says 1,069 ballots still need to be verified. Election Day was one week ago, but it is still not over. The Maui County Clerk said there are 1,069 ballot signatures that still need to be verified. Hawaii News Now.

Watchdog group launches social media campaign publicizing details on Maui police commission meeting. This comes amid a push for answers about apparent missteps the department made while recovering the remains of Lahaina fire victims. Hawaii News Now.

Settlement reached on issue of birds and Maui power lines. Hawaiian Electric has reached an agreement with two conservation groups on what it will do to protect imperiled seabirds in Maui County from collisions with its power lines. Star-Advertiser.

Nene deaths on Maui spark warnings from state biologists. State officials said two nene born and raised on Maui were struck and killed by vehicles in separate incidents over the weekend. Star-Advertiser. Maui News. Maui Now.  KITV4.

State says the deer count is down, but farmers and ranchers are still hurting. The state legislature has set aside $6.1 million in fiscal 2024-25 for the Maui Axis Deer program. Maui News.

DOH issues guidance for existing cesspool use in residential Kula. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health is issuing Guidance for Existing Cesspool Use in Residential Kula, Maui. It was developed in an effort to support Kula residents affected by the wildfires, working to rebuild and reoccupy their homes. Maui Now.

Median price of single-family homes drops to $1.3 million, down from record high of $1.4 million in September. The median price of a condominium in Maui County was down as well in October, compared with September.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Temporary water shut down at Kikiaola Boat Harbor on Wednesday. The Department of Water has scheduled a temporary water shut down at Kikiaola Boat Harbor entrance on Kaumualii Highway in Kekaha from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Garden Island.

Green projects billion dollar budget surplus plus tax cuts, Hawaii officials fear Trump presidency to bring economic hit, climate losses, Honolulu council mulls 124% sewer fee hike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Projects Billion Dollar Budget Surpluses Despite Historic Tax Cut.  Despite the extraordinary cost of the Maui wildfire disaster last year and the impact of the largest tax cut in state history this year, Gov. Josh Green’s administration anticipates billion-dollar budget surpluses for at least the next four years. Civil Beat.

Trump’s Support In Hawaii Has Grown Since He First Appeared On Ballots In 2016. It’s the best showing by a Republican nominee in the Aloha State since George W. Bush in 2004. Civil Beat.

How will Trump’s economic policies impact Hawaii? An economist weighs in. Many people who voted for the former president say it was because their families were harmed by rising prices and high interest rates, but Professor Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, says the things Trump is promising will make both of those problems worse. Hawaii News Now.

GOP Lawmaker Was Well Behind Until In-Person Votes Pushed Him To Victory. Republican state Rep. Elijah Pierick’s reelection victory in House District 39 was powered by in-person voters, an automatic recount shows. Civil Beat.

State senator calls for Hawaiʻi to be a climate leader during second Trump term. Donald Trump's reelection puts the U.S.'s role in international climate action in question. A state senator says Hawaiʻi needs to step up as a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Bill exempts veterans from vehicle fees. A bill to exempt annual motor vehicle registration fees for U.S. military veterans who are 65 years and older and reside within the City and County of Honolulu has been introduced. Star-Advertiser.

Council weighs in on city’s proposed sewer fee hike.  A city-initiated measure calling for a more than 124% increase to sewer fees for Oahu’s average single-family residential customer over a 10-year period was recently top of mind for the Honolulu City Council. Bill 60, if adopted by the Council, would see all of the city’s rate-paying customers, including commercial users, have a total fee hike of 115% over the decade-long time frame, according to the city. Star-Advertiser.

Commander urges former military to assist community. Dignitaries and community members gathered Monday at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl to celebrate Veterans Day. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Plaque near McKinley statue addresses misrepresentation. The Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs unveiled a new plaque Monday at the President William McKinley High School campus. The plaque, placed near the statue of the school’s namesake, seeks to address Hawaii’s contested annexation history and the statue’s representation of it. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Hawaii Island

Cell tower bill showdown: Competing measures to be heard at Dec. 5 meeting. While both bills diverge significantly, they both ultimately would exempt telecommunications companies from needing permit approval by the county Planning Commissions. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Loa Summit Webcams Brought Back Online. The Mauna Loa summit webcams have been down for several months due to wind damage at the radio telemetry site. Big Island Video News.

‘A day of reflection, gratitude and celebration’. Sunshine broke through a previously overcast Monday morning as the emcee of Hilo’s Veterans Day ceremony proclaimed it an “amazing, amazing Veterans Day.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui surfer determined to get back into water after shark bites off his leg. Kenji Nonaka, 61, is looking at life a little differently these days. Hawaii News Now.

First Lahaina residents expected to return home for Christmas. In six weeks, one Lahaina family said they’ll be ready to move back into their newly rebuilt home. They will be one of the first families moving back into the area, just in time for Christmas. KHON2.

Free presentation to cover wet season outlook, protecting Maui’s coral reefs. Residents of Maui looking to learn more about the wet season outlook can plug into an upcoming event with an expert from the National Weather Service.  Maui News. Maui Now.

Native Hawaiian scholarship event set for Dec. 10 at UH-Maui College. Students are invited to learn about Native Hawaiian support programs at UH-Hilo, UH Mānoa and UH Maui College. Maui Now.

Kauai

Officials tackle stubborn cesspool problem while trying to respect iwi. The discovery of iwi on Kauai’s North Shore during construction of a septic system is highlighting the stubborn problem of converting cesspools statewide. Lawmakers and government officials are trying to figure out how to balance mandatory conversions while protecting iwi kupuna (ancestral remains). Hawaii News Now.

A day of recognition for veterans. Under the leadership of the Waimea High School senior instructors, retired U.S. Army Colonel, Jerome Freeman and retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major Keith Castaneda, the Waimea High School JROTC battalion joined several hundred guests and dignitaries to pay tribute to all veterans during the Kauai Veterans Council Veterans Day Observance at Kauai Veterans Cemetery on Monday. Garden Island.

Tackling hunger in Hanapepe. As part of a positive action campaign, the Hawaii Foodbank Kauai partnered with the Hawaii Army National Guard, and numerous military-connected groups, including the Waimea High School JROTC program, Team Rubicon and U.S. Navy at the Pacific Missile Range Facility to offer free food for up to 200 families at Hanapepe Armory on Saturday. Garden Island.

Blessing at Kaua‘i heiau begins Makahiki, season marking start of Hawaiian lunar year. The 4-month season of Makahiki is observed throughout the Hawaiian Islands and is dedicated to the god Lono. Kauai Now.

Veterans Day: Hawaii's growing military significance. Plus, Republican influence grows in the state, panic buttons for schools, officials, Hawaii woman banned from South Korea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Retiring U.S. Army Pacific commander Gen. Charles Flynn says Hawaii is highly significant amid Pacific tensions.  Flynn, 61, reflected on his service in Hawaii, how the military presence in the islands has changed, and warned that the geopolitical situation in the Pacific has gotten more dangerous. He also said Hawaii’s geopolitical significance is greater than it’s ever been. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii activist is banned from South Korea. Christine Ahn, who was born in South Korea and immigrated to the United States, made international headlines in 2015 when her Honolulu-based organization Women Cross DMZ rallied 30 women to cross the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea. Star-Advertiser.

Trump support grows in blue state Hawaii. Since his first run for president in 2016, support for President-elect Donald Trump has steadily increased among Hawaii voters, just like it did this year in other politically deep-blue states from California to New York. Star-Advertiser.

Republicans gain seats in state Legislature. The state Senate now has three Republicans, while the House has nine members -- the most in the Republican Caucus in the past 20 years. Hawaii News Now.

Data Shows A Dramatic Difference In Test Scores Between Hawaii Schools. Statewide numbers suggest student test scores have flatlined in Hawaii in recent years, but results for individual schools show significant changes. Civil Beat.

Panic Buttons For Schools? Hawaii Has A New System To Deal With Violence. The $7 million mobile security system also can be used by top state officials and lawmakers. Civil Beat.

Chamber of Commerce Hawaii releases 2030 Blueprint to boost Hawaii’s economic competitiveness. Chamber President and CEO Sherry Menor-­McNamara said the chamber paid a third-party contractor $100,000 to develop the Blueprint, a forward-thinking analysis to support new and better business opportunities for small-business owners, entrepreneurs and innovators. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric claims gains in cutting fire risk. Hawaii’s largest electrical utility plans to spend $300 million over the next three years on top of $120 million this year to reduce wildfire risk. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Tribune-Herald.

State seeks contractors to respond to 3 invasive pests. The state Department of Agriculture is seeking proposals from contractors to help combat three invasive pests across Hawaii with $2.8 million in taxpayer funds. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Public input sought on proposed city transit fare changes. Public transit fares on Oahu soon may go up for some riders. The Honolulu Rate Commission said it will accept public testimony on proposed transit fare changes affecting Skyline, TheBus and TheHandi-Van at its Tuesday meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki Beach projects expected to top $50 million. Millions in state funding for Waikiki Beach improvements lapsed under the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, and while the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is moving four projects forward again in a final environmental impact statement, the estimated cost has ballooned to more than $50 million. Star-Advertiser.

Council recommends city seize dilapidated Queen Theater. The Queen Theater, once an iconic landmark in Kaimuki, has turned into a rundown, blighted building that’s attracted decades of public complaints, vagrants and a litany of illicit and illegal activities. Star-Advertiser.

Officers allegedly assaulted in separate incidents on Oahu. Honolulu police officers were allegedly assaulted during two separate cases on Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor-Elect Alameda Announces First Appointments. Bill Brilhante has been chosen to serve as Managing Director, and Merrick Nishimoto will fill the role of Deputy Managing Director. Big Island Video News.

Vacation rentals bill shelved: Council decides contentious measure too complicated in current state. A proposal by the Hawaii County Council to revamp how the county regulates short-term vacation rentals could start again from scratch. Tribune-Herald.

Bill aims to increase number of affordable rentals. Hawaii County could change how it defines “affordable rental,” which could raise the cost of rent for some low-income residents. The 2024 affordable rental housing rates for most of the county ranged from $1,202 for a studio apartment to $3,061 for a six-bedroom home. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County to award over $13 million to boost affordable housing. The County of Hawaiʻi is awarding over $13.2 million in Affordable Housing Production Program funds to four projects across Hawaiʻi Island that will support, increase, and sustain the availability and accessibility of affordable housing. Big Island Now.

Public input sought on Kahuku Unit plan. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is inviting the community to provide input about a plan to manage the Kahuku Unit, which is a separate area of the park that encompasses 132,000-plus acres in Ka‘u. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui court strikes down new shoreline management rules. Maui Environmental Court Judge Kirstin Hamman ruled against the Maui Planning Commission’s recently updated special management area rules, siding with the Maui Tomorrow Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental preservation. Star-Advertiser.

Maui residents, officials speak out against proposed contested case hearing for long-term water permit. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted 5 to 2 on Friday to deny a recommendation to hold a contested case hearing regarding a controversial 30-year permit for water coming from Maui’s Ko’olau Forest Reserve.  Maui News.

Deficient envelopes add drama to South Maui race.  There were still 1,069 deficient envelopes holding ballots, according to the Maui County Clerk’s Office, which is still contacting voters and awaiting their cured ballots. The deadline to receive the cured ballots is 4:30 p.m. Nov. 13.  Maui News.

Yearlong renovation of War Memorial Stadium could pave way for Hula Bowl, concerts, rodeos. To be able to attract University of Hawaiʻi football games and other big events in the future, Maui County plans to shut down War Memorial Stadium in June of 2025 for a one-year renovation project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Police Department celebrates appointment of Deputy Chief Mark Ozaki. The Kaua‘i Police Department announced the official appointment of Assistant Chief Mark Ozaki as the department’s new Deputy Chief last week.  Kauai Now.

Lawmakers to discuss wildfire mitigation today, Green gives state workers extra time off, Honolulu council rejects fireworks veto override and $1.5M police wrongful death settlement, Maui seeks delay of water permit plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Legislative committees to hold joint informational briefing on HECO Wildfire Mitigation Plan. A joint informational briefing hosted by the Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection, the Committee on Public Safety and Intergovernmental and Military Affairs, and the Committee on Energy, Economic Development, and Tourism takes place at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. Maui Now.

Money For New State Fire Marshal Isn’t Nearly Enough, Fire Council Says. Hawaii’s State Fire Council says lawmakers need to invest from $1 million to $4 million to revive the Office of the State Fire Marshal — up to 23 times more than the $172,000 legislators have allocated for the office so far. Civil Beat.

Final ballots confirm GOP hopes and trigger a House recount. The latest tally of the last 18,000 votes cast Tuesday on Election Day flipped the results of a contentious West Oahu seat and now has incumbent Republican Rep. Elijah Pierick winning instead of losing, but that could change again depending on a recount of the nearly 10,000 votes. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

2 Kauai lawmakers to lead Hawaii Legislature. Rep. Nadine Nakamura (D, Hanalei-Princeville- Kapaa) won the job to lead the 51-member House with a majority of votes from colleagues, and assumed the role Wednesday from outgoing Rep. Scott Saiki, who lost his reelection bid in the Aug. 7 primary election. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Gov. Green gives state workers bonus paid time off. For the third time in three years, Gov. Josh Green is giving state employees extra paid time off work during the holiday season.  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council opts not to override mayor’s veto of fireworks bill.  A Honolulu City Council measure to allow the legal sale, purchase and use of fireworks that have been banned in the city for over a decade fizzled in a 4-4 vote Thursday. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. KITV4.

Council cancels vote on $1.5M settlement in fatal HPD shooting. City attorneys will fight a wrongful death lawsuit brought by the widow of an unarmed Black man shot and killed by police following a violent confrontation in 2021 after the City Council scuttled a $1.5 million settlement Opens in a new tab Wednesday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Community weighs in on controversial development on O'ahu's north shore. Tensions escalated at a neighborhood board subcommittee meeting in Hauula on Thursday night over proposed development near Turtle Bay Resort. KITV4.

Years Of Shortchanging Elections Led To Honolulu’s Long Voter Lines. After experiencing long Election Day lines in 2020, city officials thought they knew how to fix them. Their efforts fell short. Civil Beat.

Ameresco moves ahead with renewable energy projects at Pearl Harbor. Clearway Energy recently pulled the plug on plans for three major solar farms, but Hawaiian Electric still has several other projects in the works.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Support urged for housing project. More than 200 new units could be added to an affordable housing development in Hilo under a proposal by the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. Tribune-Herald.

United States Treasurer Chief Visits Hawaiʻi Island. U.S. Treasurer Chief Lynn Malerba was recently on the Island of Hawai‘i to “gain insights on the impacts of Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) program.”  Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County in process of contracting with firm to conduct Puna Alternate Routes Study. Hawai‘i County is in the process of contracting with a consulting firm to perform a study about alternate road access in Puna that would alleviate the district’s longstanding traffic congestion and provide an evacuation route when natural disasters strike. Big Island Now.

Honor military veterans on Saturday: Annual parade in downtown Hilo begins at 10 a.m. The Big Island community will unite on Saturday to celebrate and honor service in all its forms at the 17th Annual Hawaii Island Veterans Day Parade. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen asks state land board to hold off on water permit conversation, again. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen is asking the state land board once again to hold off on discussing a contested case hearing involving a 30-year permit for water from Maui’s Ko’olau Forest Reserve.  Maui News. Maui Now.

Morgue contractor suing Maui police for alleged unpaid bills after Lahaina fire. The owner of Grey Tech LLC is now suing MPD over claims the company’s owed more than a quarter million dollars for services provided following the Lahaina disaster. This comes after MPD said it opened an investigation into the contractor. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Health nurses, workers return to work after 3-day strike. Hundreds of nurses and health care workers from Maui Health returned to work Thursday morning after holding a three-day strike protesting unfair labor practices. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Community condemns ‘desecration and defecation’ of Kauai iwi kupuna found at cesspool conversion site. On Monday, multiple government officials visited the site of a mandatory cesspool conversion project at the Hale Makai Cottages in Wainiha, Kauai. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says there are at least eight burials found in June and and September.  Hawaii News Now.

Raising awareness about poverty and homelessness. Kaua‘i County officials along with others from around the Garden Isle and a representative from Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green’s office gathered at the end of last week to raise awareness and educate the public about the issues of poverty and homelessness. Kauai Now.

Nakamura set to become first female state House speaker, Republicans gain some legislative seats, state scrambles to finish counting ballots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Legislators To Name 1st Female House Speaker In Hawaii History. Nadine Nakamura is expected to be selected as part of a leadership reorganization Thursday. Lawmakers must vote to make it official when the next session begins. Civil Beat.

Senate leadership announced for upcoming 33rd Hawai‘i Legislative Biennium. Hawai‘i Senate President Ronald Kouchi on Wednesday, following Tuesday’s general election, announced the leadership and committee chairpersons for the upcoming 2025-26 Legislative Biennium. Big Island Now.

Reelected state Sen. Brenton Awa slated to become minority leader. For the last two years, the Republicans in the Senate – Awa and Leeward Oʻahu Sen. Kurt Fevella – have not been able to determine a leader.. However, westside Republican Samantha DeCorte secured her district in the general election on Tuesday, defeating Democratic House Rep. Cedric Gates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Republicans may be gaining seats in Legislature. As of Wednesday evening, House Republican Candidates Garner Shimizu, Chris Muraoka and Julie Reyes Oda are leading their Democratic opponents. Republican Senate candidate Samantha DeCorte is winning against Cedric Gates. KHON2. KITV4.

West Oahu House Race Looks Headed For A Recount. Republican Rep. Elijah Pierick has taken a 20-vote lead over Democratic challenger Corey Rosenlee, according to late election returns released Wednesday night. If the margin between the two stays under 24 votes, it’s likely headed to a recount under a new law passed by the Legislature this year. Civil Beat.

Big Island incumbents all retain seats in Legislature. the Big Island’s delegates in the state Legislature kept their seats Tuesday after cruising to easy victories. Tribune-Herald.

Kaua‘i Democrats defeat opponents in elections for state House seats. Incumbent candidates on Kaua‘i, all of whom are Democrats, defeated all Republican challengers in state-level races this election. Kauai Now.

Lines of mostly Republicans delay vote tally. Long lines of people — overwhelmingly Republicans — who exercised their right to vote in person and even register to vote all day and night Tuesday delayed the release of election votes past midnight Wednesday, the longest delay in Hawaii voting history, said Hawaii Elections Chief Scott Nago. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s What Local Republicans Say A Trump Presidency Will Mean For Hawaii. Trump supporters say a second term should bring peace and prosperity, a lower cost of living and help for Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council mulls veto override for fireworks bill. Adopted by a majority of the Council in early October to allow ground-level fountains and sparklers to be lit in public on Oahu by lifting the city’s partial fireworks ban, Bill 22 was formally vetoed by the mayor on Oct. 25. Star-Advertiser.

Elections officials apologize for voting delays, but will changes be made? Honolulu election officials are apologizing for long waits that left many voters standing in rain and darkness for hours on election night. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Will the Ala Wai pedestrian bridge be a debacle like HART? In response to continued interest from the Waikīkī, Mōʻiliʻili and McCully communities, the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is increasing opportunities for public input on the design of the Ala Pono Pedestrian Bridge (formerly known as the Ala Wai Pedestrian Bridge).  KHON2.

Thousands oppose $1.5M proposed settlement of HPD deadly shooting lawsuit. Nearly 2,300 Hawaii residents do not want the city to pay $1.5 million to settle a deadly HPD shooting lawsuit. They’ve signed an online petition supporting officers who shot and killed Rugby star Lindani Myeni in 2021. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Changing of the guard: Alameda, Roth discuss outcome of the mayoral race. Kimo Alameda — a political newcomer who took a decisive victory over incumbent Mayor Mitch Roth in the election Tuesday and will become Hawaii County’s chief executive on Dec. 2 — said Wednesday that finding and assembling a team will be a priority. Tribune-Herald.

Hustace, Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder look ahead. Councilwoman Cindy Evans was ousted Tuesday by opponent James Hustace. Puna Councilman Matt Kaneali‘i-Kleinfelder defeated incumbent Ikaika Rodenhurst with 57% of the vote. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County incumbents survive election despite voter frustration about Lahaina fire recovery, economy.  The only Maui race in which a challenger garnered at least 40% of the vote was the District 14 West Maui contest that incumbent Democratic Rep. Elle Cochran won with 51.3% of the vote to Republican Kelly Armstrong’s 40.4%, according to the third printout of results around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.  Maui Now.

Slight lead in Maui County Council race could spell big change. As of Wednesday morning, Maui County Council member Tom Cook held a narrow lead of less than 1% over biodiesel executive Kelly King in a race that could tip the scales on major issues involving hundreds of millions of dollars in future development. Maui News.

Maui Judge Peter Cahill: All Maui Wildfire Insurance Claims Must Be Made Public. Insurance companies have a month to make public lists of every insurance claim related to the wildfire that killed 102 people on Maui and destroyed much of Lahaina, including the amount of each claim, the amount actually paid out and the rationale for the payment.  Civil Beat.

Kauai

Holland, Kaneshiro join Kauai County Council. A tight battle for the final seat on the Kauai County Council ended with a newcomer knocking off an incumbent to join the seven-member governing body on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Hawaii prefers Harris as Trump retakes presidency, Republicans lose seat in state House, same-sex marriage amendment passes, Alameda ousts incumbent Hawaii County Mayor Roth, more election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Detailed statewide election summary at second printing. Hawaii Office of Elections.

Republicans lose a House seat, new faces joining Legislature.  Hawaii Republicans lost one state representative in the 76-member state Legislature early Wednesday morning when the first Election Day tallies were finally released, while also seeing several Democratic freshmen representatives win election who will vote on laws affecting the entire state when the next session convenes in January. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Voters Supporting Same-Sex Marriage Ballot Measure. The amendment would remove discriminatory language from the state’s constitution. Another question on judicial selection is poised for passage. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Trump retakes the presidency but Hawaii prefers Harris. Vice President Kamala Harris won Hawaii and the state's four electoral votes on Wednesday. It's the 10th straight presidential election in which Hawaii has selected the Democratic Party candidate. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s congressional incumbents cruise to reelection. Three-fourths of Hawaii’s congressional delegation cruised to re-election as U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono and Reps. Jill Tokuda and Ed Case held insurmountable leads over their opponents in the first vote tally released by state elections officials early this morning. Hawaii’s congressional delegation will have to work for federal resources for Hawaii with the White House and U.S. Senate, and possibly the House, controlled by Republicans. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now.

OHA Election Results: Incumbents Returning To Office. Island trustees for Molokai, Lanai and Kauai are returning to their seats. Civil Beat.

Long Lines On Oahu And Maui Delayed Hawaii Election Results For Hours. State officials and election advocates renewed calls for more in-person polling sites on Election Day. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Election: All 4 Charter Amendments Are On Track To Be Approved. The proposed measures would affect climate change funding, city council member salaries, an ocean safety oversight commission and emergency management leaders. Civil Beat.

Oahu voters brave long lines and rain to cast their ballots. Hundreds of residents stood in the rain since early Tuesday morning — some waiting for up to three hours — to get into Oahu’s voter service centers in Honolulu and Kapolei. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Alameda Leads Roth In Mayor’s Race Upset. Early election returns showed Hilo psychologist Kimo Alameda on track to defeat Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth in a surprise upset in a contest that featured some sharp exchanges over Roth’s record and accomplishments. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. KHON2.

James Hustace leading incumbent Cindy Evans in race for Hawai‘i County Council seat. Evans, who is running for a second term to represent North and South Kohala in District 9, received 3,192 votes. Hustace garnered 4,191. Big Island Now.

Hawai‘i Island continues to support Democratic leadership in State Legislature. Hawai‘i County voters continue to support Democratic leadership as Big Island incumbents for the Senate and House retain their seats. Big Island Now.

Maui

Cook Leads King To Keep Council Seat. Voters were on track to pass two of three charter amendments, preliminary results show. Civil Beat.

2024 Hawai‘i and Maui County Election Results. Preliminary results as of 12:30 a.m. Wednesday. Maui News. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi on way to elect 6 current or former members and a newcomer to County Council. In the race for the seven seats on the Kauaʻi County Council in the 2024 General Election, current or former council members appear to have won the first six seats, after the second printout at 12:24 a.m. on Wednesday. Kauai Now.

Kauai Election Results: Two Incumbents Losing Council Seats. A slate of charter amendments meant to improve county operations and give youth a bigger voice in governance are moving forward. Civil Beat.

Solar developer cancels 3 projects, citing HECO financial distress, Hawaii votes lag, expect long lines at polls today, Hilton Hawaiian strikers go back to work, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Solar developer pulls out of 3 major projects, citing HECO's 'financial distress' . Clearway Energy had proposed two solar fields with storage on Hawaiʻi Island that would have produced a total of 115 megawatts of power — more than half of the island’s average daily demand for electricity. Another solar project slotted for Oʻahu would have generated enough electricity to power close to 20,000 homes. After the wildfire destroyed Lahaina on Aug. 8, multiple rating agencies downgraded Hawaiian Electric's credit to "junk" status, which has limited the utility's access to capital. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii votes lag 2020 election; long lines expected tonight. Only 375,000 Hawaii ballots had been returned by Monday — a day ahead of today’s election — suggesting that the total number of votes cast by tonight will trail the previous presidential race in 2020. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi Democrats travel to key swing states in final push before Election Day. Ahead of the election, several Hawaiʻi Democrats spent the weekend knocking on doors — not in Hawaiʻi but in Michigan. Hawaii Public Radio.

Next President Will Shape The Future Of America’s Largest Marine Monument. With the effects of climate change bearing down, the race is on to ensure Papahanaumokuakea remains protected. Civil Beat.

Water Commission confirms Lahaina native Ciara Kahahane as new deputy. Kahahane said some of her priorities include improving water resource monitoring and building community trust. Hawaii Public Radio.

Glut? Shortage? Hawaii Farmers Navigate A Tricky Taro Market. Even as part of the islands’ crop goes unharvested, some buyers turn to imports. Pacific imports accounted for 137,000 pounds of taro during the 2024 fiscal year that ended last June, an almost 63% increase from the year before, worth $232,099.  Civil Beat.

Oahu
 
Honolulu Council to review sewer fee hike measure. A city-initiated measure that calls for a more than 124% increase to sewer fees for Honolulu’s average single-family residential customer over a 10-year period comes under City Council review this week. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of homeowners may need flood insurance, new flood maps released. According to a new flood hazard map by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, thousands of homes in Honolulu now fall within a flood zone. It’s a designation that could require many to carry flood insurance. KHON2.

Striking Hilton workers return to jobs after ratifying contract. Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort offered striking Local 5 UNITE HERE hotel employees up to $10 per hour in wage increases over four years in a new contract that workers ratified Monday to end a 40-day strike. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

DLE proposes high-tech hub near Honolulu Airport. Request for proposals for a brand new public safety facility went out last week that would replace a nearly two-acre empty lot near Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye Airport with a multi-story, multi-functional facility. KHON2.

President of East-West Center to leave post for defense forum. East-West Center President Suzanne Vares-Lum, who is both the first Native Hawaiian and the first woman to lead the organization, will leave her position at the end of this year to head the Daniel K. Inouye Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies, located in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Election Day votes could impact too-close-to-call race for Hawai‘i County mayor. Today is the day 59-year-old incumbent Mitch Roth of Hilo and 54-year-old challenger Kimo Alameda find out who will lead Hawai‘i County for the next 4 years as its mayor. Big Island Now.

Emergency shelters open on Hawaii Island as heavy rain triggers flash flooding, road closures.  Three emergency shelters remain open Tuesday for residents in need of a place to stay amid flooding rains. According to Hawaii County Civil Defense, roughly 10 roads remain closed due to flooding or hazardous conditions. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawai‘i Island cyclists, state representative ride Route 130 for bike safety advocacy. State Rep. Greggor Ilagan (District 4, Lower Puna) and 21 cyclists from across Hawai‘i Island convened at the Herbert Shipman Park in Keaʻau to begin the nearly 22-mile roundtrip journey to the Billy Kenoi Park in Pāhoa. Big Island Now.

Maui

Campaign contributions show what’s at stake in Maui County Council elections. So far this election cycle, the most heavily funded candidate has been incumbent Council Member Tom Cook, who is in a tight reelection contest for the South Maui seat against former Council Member Kelly Takaya King. Cook had received $170,440.84 in contributions as of Oct. 21, far outpacing the next-closest candidate by nearly $100,000, according to campaign spending reports filed last week. Maui Now.

Maui County Looks To Extend Tax Exemptions For Wildfire Survivors. The tax credits also benefit landlords who rent to people displaced by the August 2023 fires. Civil Beat.

Maui health care workers go on 3-day strike. Hundreds of unionized health care workers at Maui Memorial Medical Center walked off the job Monday morning, the first day of a planned, three-day strike. Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

State land board will revisit Ko‘olau Forest Reserve water topic Friday. After holding off on discussing a controversial permit regarding water diversion from Maui’s Ko’olau Forest Reserve, the state land board is scheduled to address the topic again this week. Maui News.

Kauai

Massachusetts teacher runs Kalalau Trail in 50 state challenge to raise funds for Alzheimer’s cure. Glenn Caffery, a 63-year-old Massachusetts teacher, chose a 28.7-mile route on the famous Kalalau Trail, which is along the Na Pali Coast on Kauaʻi.  Kauai Now.

Hawaii braces for Election Day crowds, controversy erupts over middle school presidential candidate lesson, state GOP poised to report election irregularities to Trump campaign, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii voters can expect Election Day lines, delayed results. Elections officials expect long lines of people exercising their right to vote in person — and even register to vote — on Election Day, Tuesday, reminiscent of the 2020 presidential race when voting sites across every island county could not close at 7 p.m., delaying results for the public and political candidates. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Republicans compiling complaints for election challenges. Despite no evidence of voter fraud in Hawaii elections, leaders of the local Republican party are urging voters to be vigilant for irregularities, and plan to share those reports with the Trump campaign. Hawaii News Now.

‘It was biased’: Controversy over Hawaii public school lesson on presidential candidates. The race for the White House is reaching local classrooms and one lesson has some parents raising their eyebrows. The controversy is over a two page document that was handed out to classrooms at Kapolei Middle School. It broke down where the U.S. presidential candidates -- Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican former President Donald Trump -- stand on the issues. Hawaii News Now.

Marriage equality, vulnerable incumbents, Big Island mayor: 10 election stories we're watching. Polls close in Hawaiʻi at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, but you can still vote as long as you're in line by that time at a voter service center. If you have not yet mailed your ballot, you should take it to an official drop box as it must be received by the time polls close. Hawaii Public Radio.

Matson Slows Down To Protect Whales, While Pasha Hawaii Speeds On. Until recently, both of Hawaii’s main shipping companies, Matson and Pasha, held two of the worst records among all major ocean shippers in slowing down their vessels off the California coast to avoid collisions with endangered whales. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Hotel workers, Hilton reach tentative agreement. The 40-day strike by workers at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort appears to be nearing an end after Hilton and UNITE HERE Local 5 announced a tentative agreement on a new contract late Saturday. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Navy water system upgrade under intense scrutiny. The Navy is upgrading and renovating its Oahu water system that serves 93,000 island residents, having demolished an old water storage tank with a replacement currently under construction — and with more planned upgrades along the way. Star-Advertiser.

Nonprofit farm receives land in Makaha Valley. MA‘O Organic Farms has received ownership of 249 acres of undeveloped land in Makaha Valley from the The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

Trial delayed for 4 officers charged in Makaha crash case. A trial has been delayed for four Honolulu police officers accused of causing a car chase, crash and covering it up in September 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Star-Advertiser editorials on Red Hill crisis bring accolades. Honolulu Star-Advertiser editorial page editor Lucy Young-Oda won second- place honors in a national journalism contest for her editorials on the U.S. Navy’s response to the Red Hill water contamination crisis. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island voters will help decide county, state and federal contests. The General Election will be held Tuesday, and Big Island voters will have the opportunity to choose Hawaii County’s next mayor, along with state senators and representatives, County Council members, and of course the U.S. president. Tribune-Herald.

3 school bus routes back on the road on Hawaii Island. Starting Monday, the buses will transport nearly 50 students to Waiakea Intermediate in Hilo and Keonepoko Elementary in Pahoa. Hawaii News Now.

Mauna Loa Road in HVNP will temporarily close for six weeks. Mauna Loa Road in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will temporarily close to all use when survey, drilling and soil sampling work starts Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Council May Double Down On Mayor’s Tax Relief Proposal For Day Cares. Plan would increase the annual property tax exemption for some licensed child care facilities from $50,000 to $200,000. Civil Beat.

Staff across Maui hospitals gather to make signs to prepare for strike. Hundreds of nurses and other healthcare workers at major hospitals on the neighboring islands are set to strike Monday morning. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Shark bites 61-year-old Maui surfer, completely severing his leg below the knee. The man was alert while being treated on shore and then taken to Maui Memorial Medical Center in critical condition.  Associated Press. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.  Spectrum News.

Coast Guard members, civilians honored for Lahaina heroism. Both national and international organizations are recognizing Coast Guard and civilian mariners who responded to the deadly 2023 Lahaina fire for heroism at sea. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Visitors and spending fall in September on Kauai. Total visitor spending retreated to $211.4 million in September from $236.7 million in September 2023, a decrease of 10.7 percent, as well as the second straight month spending was below the same period a year earlier. Garden Island.

Business picks up at Lihue Airport in October. A total of 65,485 passengers off-boarded domestic flights at the seaside transportation facility in October, compared with 62,216 in October 2023. Garden Island.

FBI sets up election command post, Board of Education restores money for after-school programs, judge clears the way for 350-unit hotel at Coco Palms site, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

FBI Honolulu sets up command post to monitor Election Day. FBI Honolulu will set up an Election Command Post for election security starting on Monday, Nov. 4. The post will be staffed 24 hours a day to monitor a host of potential scenarios related to election fraud, voter suppression, foreign malign influence, malicious cyber activity against election infrastructure, and threats to election workers. Its jurisdiction covers Hawaii, Guam, U.S. Commonwealth in the Pacific Ocean (CNMI), and American Samoa. KITV4.

Alaska’s first financial report since Hawaiian acquisition shows combined strengths. Leaders at Alaska Air Group were bullish Thursday on their merger with Hawaiian Airlines in their first quarterly report filed since the move, indicating Hawaiian could almost break even by the fourth quarter. Star-Advertiser.

Board Of Education Restores Cuts For School Learning Centers. After strong public opposition the proposed budget cuts, DOE will continue to request state funding to support school learning.  Civil Beat.

Visitor arrivals up 7.8%. Visitor arrivals in Septem­ber recovered to 96% of Sept­ember 2019’s pre-­pandemic level — the best recovery rate since the devastating Maui wildfires in August 2023 interrupted tourism’s recovery. Arrivals to Hawaii rose 7.8% year over year to 707,486 visitors, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Water commission appointee takes seat over advocates' objections. Gov. Josh Green’s two key appointees to the state water commission officially started work Thursday.The appointments have brought new attention to the debate over whether taro farmers and affordable housing are in competition for water. Hawaii News Now.

$1.5M grant goes toward students pursuing food, agriculture studies in Hawaiʻi. A handful of University of Hawaiʻi campuses have been awarded a $1.5 million grant to strengthen Native Hawaiian-serving institutions by supporting students in food and agricultural sciences. The USDA grant was awarded to UH West Oʻahu, Leeward Community College, Hawaiʻi Community College, and UH Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Governor’s Office To Help YMCA Residents Facing Huge Rent Hike. The state’s Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions promised to make sure no tenant has to move out after Honolulu’s Central YMCA announced it would end rental subsidies for eight long-term residents. Civil Beat.

New airport parking structure the start of big plans at HNL. The state’s currently taking bids for a new parking structure at Honolulu Airport. Officials say it’s not just another project, but a key piece for future plans there. KHON2.

Stadium rebuild on track with selection of developer. Aloha Halawa District Partners has met state requirements and received approval as master developer for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, with the planned opening of a new stadium in August 2028 still intact. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Street Festivals Frustrate Waikiki But Chinatown Wants More. In a tale of two neighborhoods, street festivals can be a headache for people in Waikiki while community leaders say they could be an economic lifeline for Chinatown. Civil Beat.

Work starts next week on new transit-only lane in Waikiki. The city will begin work next week on making the right westbound lane of Kuhio Avenue a transit-only lane for buses and certain other vehicles. It will take about a month to make the change from Kapahulu Avenue to Launui Street. Hawaii News Now.

City council looking at Mililani police substation. The Honolulu City Council is considering the need for a new police sub-station in Mililani, it comes after several high profile cases last year. KHON2.

3 charged in Afghan immigration fraud scheme. A Honolulu man and two others face federal charges in connection with a six-year scheme starting in 2018 to provide more than 200 fraudulent visa application recommendations for citizens of Afghanistan to live in the U.S. — accepting $500 each, and emeralds in one instance. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Fire Department unveils new twin-engine helicopter. Starting in 2025, the Honolulu Fire Department will fly a new twin-engine helicopter to incidents ranging from searches and rescues to fighting wildland fires across not only Oahu, but perhaps to the other islands as well. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR investigating ‘cruel and inhumane’ cat killings. State authorities have launched an investigation after at least eight cats appear to have been killed in a cruel manner at the Sand Island harbor in October. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County Mayor’s Race Is Getting Lots Of Cash This Year. Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth has raised and spent tens of thousands of dollars more than his opponent, Kimo Alameda, in his bid to win a second term. Civil Beat.

Salvation Army Opens Safehouse For Girls In Hilo. The Salvation Army’s Noho ‘Olu Safehouse for Girls opened its doors on Monday. The new four-bedroom safehouse in Hilo serves girls aged 13 to 17,and will offer “life skills and academic training, essential resources, and compassionate care to help each girl thrive and build a bright future.”  Big Island Video News.

Maui

Healthcare workers announce three-day strike, beginning Monday morning. Hundreds of nurses and other healthcare workers will walk off the job for three days beginning 7 a.m. Monday, impacting care from essential staff at Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital and Lāna‘i Community Hospital. Maui Now.

New Maui police statement reveals county protocol violations in Lahaina fire victim recovery. Concerns raised by the department’s former morgue contractor cast doubt on whether all the ashes families received are those of their loved ones. Hawaii News Now.

Meeting addresses new ocean fiber cable construction on Maui. Construction of a submarine optical fiber cable system aimed at improving high-speed broadband internet throughout the state may start construction on Maui in the near future.  Maui News.

First steps underway for Summit-to-Sea Restoration project on Maui. Work to restore what is known as “Maui’s mother reef” began this week with a contractor starting to drill test bores for a possible retention basin in Manawaipueo Gulch. Maui News.

Maui County, again, leads state in vacation rental supply in September. Maui County continued to have the largest vacation rental supply in the state in September — 263,900 available unit nights, compared with 230,500 on Oʻahu, 214,600 on Hawaiʻi Island and 136,600 on Kauaʻi, according to a monthly vacation rental performance report by the state Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism. Maui Now.

Kauai

Judge denies attorney’s motion to stop construction at Coco Palms property. Fifth Circuit Court Judge Randal Valenciano on Thursday denied an attorney’s motion to grant a preliminary injunction to stop all construction work on a controversial 350-unit hotel on the site that once housed the iconic Coco Palms Resort on Kauaʻi. Kauai Now.

Cesspool grant program notifies 100 awardees on Kauai. A grant program aimed at helping island residents convert cesspools on their properties has selected 100 recipients, each of whom are eligible to receive a $20,000 reimbursement. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Lydgate Campground to close for two weeks. The closure is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 12. The campground will reopen at noon on Thursday, Nov. 21. Garden Island.