Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Lawsuits threatened over Hawaii reapportionment, tax revenues up, Big Island councilwoman wants DUI vehicles confiscated, Abercrombie declares civil defense emergency to remove ordnance, Maui considers single-member districts, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

checking reapportionment maps (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
The state Reapportionment Commission was put on notice Tuesday it will get sued if it persists in including nonresident military and students in determining state legislative boundaries. West Hawaii Today.

The state Reapportionment Commission can expect to be sued if its final plan for redrawing state political boundaries is based on a population count that includes nonresident population groups such as military members and their dependents. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island residents slammed the state Reapportionment Commission on its boundary proposals and threatened legal action if commissioners deny the island a fourth seat in the state Senate. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie declared a civil defense emergency earlier this summer in a largely unpublicized move that gives the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sweeping authority to bypass state laws to investigate and remove unexploded ordnance. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers agree with Gov. Neil Abercrombie on the danger of discarded military explosives scattered across the islands, but many believe the governor should have been more transparent before using his emergency powers to assist with the cleanup. Star-Advertiser.

State tax revenue collections grew last month, thanks in part to strengthening tourism numbers. KHON2.

Dean Haskins, executive director of The Birther Summit, is in Honolulu to promote a $10,000 award for whomever can produce the actual edition of the Honolulu Advertiser or the Honolulu Star-Bulletin that reported Obama's Aug. 4, 1961, birth. Civil Beat.

As a result of efforts to raise the bar for the level of the education available at Hawaii’s public schools, six more schools recently attained adequate yearly progress. Hawaii Independent.

Nationally poverty numbers have increased, while the number of people living in poverty in Hawaii has dropped to 12.1% from 12.5% a year ago. KITV4.

Hawaii is not considered a pedestrian's paradise. KITV4.

Oahu

The Honolulu Council Reapportionment Commission on Tuesday narrowed down its list of four potential district plans to the one it will take out to the community next month. Civil Beat.

Superblocks with 40-story buildings linked by walkways suspended 45 feet above streets never materialized in Kakaako, but the vision of state planners nearly 30 years ago is about to get updated with more down-to-earth ideas. Star-Advertiser.

Bombardier Transportation USA has lost its latest attempt to overturn its disqualification in the bidding war for a lucrative City and County of Honolulu rail contract. Pacific Business News.

The Solar One project in Kalaeloa is meeting resistance. Hawaii Independent.

The 3rd Annual Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit started today. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Honolulu police officer is dead and another is in the hospital following a traffic collision during a routine traffic stop on Farrington Highway near Ko Olina Tuesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines expects to offer daily nonstop flights between Honolulu and Fukuoka starting next year. Associated Press.

Hawaii


Intoxicated, unlicensed or fraudulent drivers would risk having their vehicles towed at their expense or even sold under a bill heading for County Council consideration. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is looking for a good spot to build a park in Puna, after being rebuffed by Hawaiian Paradise Park. Tribune-Herald.

For years, millions of dollars have been invested, mostly in the form of human labor and chemicals, in an attempt to control super weeds, such as strawberry guava, clidemia hirta, miconia, kahili ginger and Australian tree fern. West Hawaii Today.

Pot choppers took to the air over East Hawaii on Monday and Tuesday, a top state law enforcer said. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Members of the Charter Commission agreed Monday to continue discussing proposals to establish single-member County Council districts - even as many commissioners said they were personally opposed to the idea. Maui News.

The Maui County Council on Monday took up a bill on short-term rental properties in residential districts in depth for the first time in years and is looking at comprehensively examining, legalizing and streamlining the law in its Planning Committee. Maui News.

Dozens of letters of support have been written to the state on behalf of embattled Maui housing project manager Lisa Faleafine by residents of the apartment complex she oversees. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced on Monday it will close the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and Kalalau trail from Hanakapi‘ai to Kalalau Beach, starting Thursday in order to restore the Kalalau camping area after a busy summer season. Garden Island.

A Wainiha Valley taro grower says she was alarmed when her taro patches suddenly and unexpectedly dried out last month. Garden Island.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Inouye, Akaka support Hirono, Hawaii lawmakers to challenge monk seal plan, no drug testing of teachers, not ready for APEC, millions in no-bid contracts for politically connected Big Island nonprofit, Kaui bans drinking, urinating, defecating on new county building grounds, Maui cop gets jail time, more news

U.S. Rep. Hirono with Sen. Dan Akaka in 2009, courtesy photo
Endorsement? US Senators Inouye, Akaka Make Appearance at Hirono Fundraisers. Hawaii Reporter.

Scores of small schools — those with transient populations and campuses in remote areas — would see their main source of funding reduced next school year by as much as 20 percent under a proposal before the Board of Education. Star-Advertiser.

After years of legal wrangling, a conflict about random drug testing for teachers appears to be at an end. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers will propose legislation challenging federal protections for monk seals if the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration doesn't scale back its proposals, according to state Rep. Sharon Har. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Waikiki street performers fear arrest. Hawaii News Now.

Portions of two state projects to spruce up Oahu for President Barack Obama and other world leaders coming here for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting have hit snags and will not be completed by the start of the event in November. Star-Advertiser.

Protests are in works for Hawaii APEC meeting. Civil Beat.

A former U.S. service member was arrested in Hawaii after he sent emails from Thailand that threatened to kill Vice President Joe Biden, authorities said Monday. Associated Press.

A judge has ruled more than 150 dogs and nearly 80 puppies currently in foster care should be forfeited to the Hawaiian Humane Society by owners of the breeding facility they were rescued from. KHON2.

The North Shore community of La’ie is one of the most over-crowded neighborhoods on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

The First Annual Lanikai Surf Festival takes place over the weekend of September 23-24 at Lanikai Park, featuring a wide variety of activities from surf films to a 2.4 stand up paddle race. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Darren Rosario became the Big Island's 21st fire chief on Monday during a morning ceremony on the balcony of the Hawaii County Building in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Over the past eight years, Hawaii County has awarded more than $3.3 million in no-bid contracts for disabled transportation services to a politically connected nonprofit. West Hawaii Today.

Officials posted warning signs at Hilo Bay following a spill of 500 gallons of wastewater, the state Department of Health reported. Star-Advertiser.

Campers are overstaying their welcome at Kiholo State Park Reserve, leaving behind trash and human waste, scorching the ground with fires and barbecues, damaging vegetation, and destroying archaeological sites, said state Department of Land and Natural Resources officials. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Transportation will receive $10.6 million to refurbish a runway at the Hilo International Airport, Hawaii's congressional delegation announced Monday in a joint news release. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Environmentalists and a long-time Makena advocate are concerned that there are no longer educational volunteers and only a sparse number of rangers to patrol the ecologically and geologically fragile Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve in Makena. Maui News.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will hold a meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday to discuss its investigation into 1940s-era unexploded ordnance that may be located in the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve in Makena. Maui News.

A federal judge has sentenced a former Maui police officer to a year-and-a-half in prison for stealing about $1,500 from a driver during a traffic stop and extorting sex from a woman who had been jailed. KITV4.

Kauai

Without much fanfare or discussion, the Kaua‘i County Council sent a message to the public last week: Do not drink, urinate or defecate in front of our new home. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has contracted with Hawaii BioEnergy LLC to supply 10 million gallons of Kauai-grown biofuel annually to power its Kahe Generating Station in Leeward Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Residents are being asked to provide input for a multi-use trail for the communities of Waimea and Kekaha. Garden Island.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Pfleuger defaults on Kauai dam settlement, 200mw wind farm coming to Molokai, Oahu affordable housing to become less so, Maui finds tax inequities, world's fastest sailing ship visits Honolulu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Nene geese (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Nene geese on Kauai are beginning a $7.2 million migration to Maui and the Big Island via air.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s government boards and commissions are required to inform the public about the times, locations, dates and agendas of upcoming meetings. But for the public, gaining access to this information is not always an easy task, and government officials themselves seem confused about what is required of them. Civil Beat.

The Federal Aviation Administration is stepping up enforcement of flight regulations in Hawaii of powered hang gliders. Associated Press.

More than 150 delegates from 14 international cities will gather at a sister-cities summit hosted by Hawaii’s four counties this week in Waikiki. Pacific Business News.

Appointments to apply for a Hawaii state identification card can now be made online. Associated Press.

Oahu

Residents at the city's 12 affordable-housing properties can expect to pay more rent when private companies take over the properties, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

The number of wildfires on Oahu has dropped sharply this year, thanks to a ban on fireworks and unusually wet weather from La Nina. Star-Advertiser.

The world's fastest sailing ship is here in Honolulu. KHON2.

Rice enthusiasts jammed Magic Island Sunday for the second annual Rice Festival. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Unlike its state counterpart, the Hawaii County Redistricting Commission is excluding nonresident military and students when drawing new political boundaries. West Hawaii Today.

A Kona pediatrician plans to show people born with congenital heart defects and others how far they can go. West Hawaii Today.

Maui


Council member says change needed to fix inequities in assessment of ag land value. Maui News.

A Paia resident's most recent rhyming picture book, "Maggie Goes on a Diet," has set off a controversy over its story of a teenage girl and her efforts to lose weight. Maui News.

Kauai

Retired Auto Dealer Jimmy Pflueger has defaulted on his promise to pay several million dollars to Kauai residents who lost their loved ones - and property - when his Ka Loko dam breached in the early morning hours of Tuesday, March 14, 2006. Hawaii Reporter.

Kaua‘i secures $138M in state CIP budget. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai Renewables developers confirmed last week they will place a bid to build a 200 megawatt wind farm on Molokai once a new request for proposals is released this fall. Molokai Dispatch.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to bring back Kakahai`a’s healthy wetlands and native birds – and it now has plans to make that happen. Molokai Dispatch.

Friday, September 9, 2011

Hawaii tax changes stall, federal housing funds dry up, Hawaii County advances impact fees, Native Hawaiian recognition process begins, cleaning up Waikiki, Kauai to open new campground, more news from the islands

Native Hawaiian rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
Former Gov. Waihee will lead a new commission charged with preparing and maintaining a roll of qualified Native Hawaiians that would work toward the reorganization of a native government. Star-Advertiser.

A federal appeals court has ruled that the state Department of Education violated federal law when it denied special assistance to a dyslexic public school student. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers will have to wait an extra year to get advice on the state's tax structure. Civil Beat.

The sun apparently doesn't shine too brightly at the Department of Taxation. Civil Beat.

At the end of the year, Hawaii no longer will receive more than $6 million in federal stimulus money aimed at preventing 5,000 people from joining the circuit of homeless people who continuously migrate around the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Republican congressional candidate former Rep. Charles Djou is scheduled to leave Friday for a six-month deployment to Afghanistan. KITV4.

There is enough information on people living temporarily in Hawaii who likely vote elsewhere to exclude them when redrawing the state's election district boundaries. Star-Advertiser.

Board of Education Chairman Don Horner said in testimony Thursday he was "very surprised" when the executive board of the teachers union unanimously rejected in June a "last, best and final" offer that included wage reductions and higher medical premiums. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents can expect to see costs cut for home insurance next year but no one knows exactly how much premiums will drop. KITV4.

Oahu

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting on O’ahu is less than 60 days away … and the finishing touches on more than 137 million dollars of infrastructure upgrades are under way. Hawaii Public Radio.

Impressed and comforted.Those were two words that members of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation used after hearing from the company selected to build the City and County of Honolulu’s rail car system. Pacific Business News.

The developer of a regional mall in East Kapolei — similar in size to Pearlridge Center — plans to break ground in July and open the first phase in 2014. Star-Advertiser.

14 months after union hotel workers’ contract with Hyatt Hotels expired, workers have walked off the job at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki. Those workers join thousands of others in Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, in a week-long strike. Hawaii Independent.

The Hawaiian Humane Society is seeking full custody of the more than 200 dogs seized from an alleged puppy farm in Waimanalo. KHON2.

As the 10th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks draws near, Hawaii News Now takes a look at the many changes that have taken place at Hawaii's airports to improve safety for travelers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The cost of building a new home or business would increase under an impact fee bill advanced by a County Council committee Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

The seventh time proved the charm Thursday, when the County Council Planning Committee finally advanced an impact fee bill. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council wants the state Legislature to come up with a more practical solution to electronic waste recycling than requiring neighbor island residents to mail their old televisions and computers to Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.


An anonymous mother and child who collected a $7 million legal settlement from Kamehameha Schools in 2007 will remain unidentified even when they testify in a Hilo trial next month over the schools’ demand for return of $2 million. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has nominated Kailua-Kona resident Lei Kihoi, 66, to the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission. Tribune-Herald.

The hunt for unexploded military ordnance continues Friday at the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

A private Mainland-based company is conducting the “compliance audit” of a Maui public housing project plagued by chronic vacancies and overdue repair work. Hawaii Reporter.

Because more and more of Maui's sandy shorelines are being "impaired" by development and uncontrollable environmental issues, laws and procedures to protect the environment must be followed, county and state officials said Wednesday morning. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie joined state education and lawmakers and Maui County officials Wednesday in ceremonially turning shovels full of dirt to break ground for the $37.1 million Pu'u Kukui Elementary School. Maui News.

Kauai

In a meeting filled with strong opinions, the County Council on Wednesday approved by a 5-2 vote the opening of Lydgate Beach Park campgrounds to the public. Garden Island.

A Na Pali area camper says he witnessed an abandoned sailboat break apart on Kalalau Beach, but officials say there is no sign of the vessel. Garden Island.

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Hawaii lawmakers, officials not disclosing gifts, Gov. Abercrombie wants subpoena quashed in teacher union case, Big Island seeks 2% land fund, homeless Oahu family gets one-way trip, Waikiki Hyatt workers on strike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Parker Ranch statue (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Parker Ranch has joined several other large Hawaii landowners applying to preserve agricultural land in perpetuity under a 3-year-old law that qualifies them for state benefits including tax credits. Star-Advertiser.

Two dozen pricey DVD sets given to Hawaii lawmakers this year are unaccounted for. Civil Beat.

A deputy attorney general asked the Hawaii Labor Relations Board on Wednesday to quash subpoenas issued to Gov. Neil Abercrombie and six prominent state lawmakers in the teachers union's challenge against the state over a new contract. Star-Advertiser.

The atmosphere in recent negotiations between the state and teachers union was largely businesslike and friendly, and union negotiators never said they felt "intimidated" about making a deal, Board of Education member Jim Williams said in testimony Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie will announce his appointments to the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission on September 8 at 12:15 p.m. Hawaii Reporter.

Fall enrollment in the University of Hawaii System has increased slightly to a record 60,519 students. KITV4.

A new federal program aims to reduce harassment of wild dolphins by Hawaii tour boats while promoting responsible viewing. KHON2.

Oahu

When the City Council holds a public meeting on Friday, September 16, one of the items on the agenda is Resolution 11-229, which authorizes the use of “overt video monitoring” at and around the events of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Honolulu. Hawaii Independent

The Honolulu Planning Commission was split Wednesday over a bill that the city administration had hoped would help it crack down on illegal vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation will hear directly from executives of Ansaldo Honolulu Joint Venture regarding the company’s financial situation and other issues at a meeting set for Thursday morning. Pacific Business News.

An event was conducted today on O’ahu to help homeless veterans for the first time in more than a decade. Hawaii Public Radio.


A homeless family of three is getting a fresh start thanks to some anonymous donors and the efforts of a state lawmaker and a homeless advocacy group. Hawaii News Now.

The median sales prices for Oahu homes and condos decreased last month, while the number of sales were up. Associated Press.

Unionized Hyatt Regency Waikiki workers went on a week-long strike this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council Finance Committee on Wednesday supported giving voters one more chance to put a 2 percent land fund in the county charter. West Hawaii Today.

Kamehameha Schools' civil trial against a Big Island family that received a $7 million out-of-court settlement from the educational trust has been put on hold. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Community College continues to experience growing pains as increased demand meets facility limitations. Tribune-Herald.

The fair's back in town, but this time, it's in a slightly different location. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would take over management of Molokini under a proposal included in a draft 15-year conservation plan that also covers Kealia Pond and the Kakahai'a national wildlife refuges in South Maui and on Molokai. Maui News.

Rents at a Maui affordable housing project must be lowered and dozens of units that have been vacant for months and years must be occupied within 30 days, according to state Rep. Angus McKelvey. Hawaii Reporter.

The Maui County Urban Design Review Board recommended approval of plans for a new Iglesia Ni Cristo, or Church of Christ, on Tuesday and decided the changes made after an earlier meeting were mostly acceptable. Maui News.

Kauai

Representatives of several organizations, some already working as community service sites with the judicial system, attended a Monday meeting to consider partnering with a new comprehensive diversion program. Garden Island.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Civil unions coming to Hawaii, new taxes boost revenue forecast, state tops nation in teen suicide attempts, new BOE flexes muscle, Kauai food bank fight continues, Maui flights boost tourism, Big Island crime patterns change, more news

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) All Hawaii News
The state Department of Health expects to issue the first licenses for civil unions by Dec. 3, with the expressed, written understanding that the authorizations would not take effect until Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

The State Council on Revenues raised its projections today for General Fund tax collections this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's economy is expected to grow slowly, despite the overall dreary financial outlook from economists. KITV4.

At a Tuesday meeting Hawaii’s Council on Revenues projected substantial growth to the state's general fund for the next several years, but much of that is due to tax increases passed by state lawmakers, not a strengthening economy. KHON2.

Hawaii high school students had the highest self-reported prevalence of seriously considering suicide, making a plan and attempting suicide in the nation. They also had the third highest rate of being sad or hopeless. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii health officials are sponsoring events statewide to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Week. Associated Press.

The public will have the chance to voice their opinion on the possible closure of several Hawaii post offices starting Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The question of whether the media should be able to live blog from a federal court trial in Hawaii is again up for debate. Civil Beat.

State health officials responded more quickly to the swine flu and SARS viruses because of techniques and equipment developed after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, but modern-day priorities mean they are less focused on monitoring Hawaii’s milk supply and tracking diseases such as tuberculosis. Honolulu Advertiser.

A group of retired military leaders who drew attention last year with its claim that overweight children are a threat to national security, are now targeting Hawaii's obesity rates. Associated Press.

Hawaii's Board of Education members promised culture change during their confirmation hearings earlier this year, and barely more than four months later, it's clear that they're already bringing it. Civil Beat.

Students get reprimanded for turning in an incomplete report and today so did the Department of Education. Hawaii News Now.

Home sales on Hawaii island and Kauai rose or remained unchanged in August compared with a year earlier while prices mostly declined, according to the latest report from Hawaii Information Service. Star-Advertiser.

Against a backdrop of local slowing and deteriorating conditions in the U.S. and global economy, Hawaii will see only modest growth in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Seven species of Native Hawaiian bees will be placed on the endangered species list. KHON2.

Oahu

The city began notifying groups early on this year that permits for events in November could be rejected because of the security surrounding the upcoming economic summit. KITV4.

The Board of Education wants a better study before taking a possible elementary school closure to a public hearing. KHON2.

The state Board of Education wants more information on the impacts of closing Likelike Elementary in Kalihi before the cost-saving proposal is taken to the community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island's fastest-growing district has experienced a double-digit drop in crime. Tribune-Herald.

The instances of murder, rape and robbery in West Hawaii increased last year compared to 2009. West Hawaii Today.

Land preservation proponents today will begin the long process of trying to get a 2 percent land fund amendment on the ballot -- again. West Hawaii Today.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources staff is recommending approval of a month's worth of high-altitude helicopter training on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa for Army pilots and crews deploying to Afghanistan in January. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui has been getting a whole bunch of direct nonstop flights that will go a long way toward helping carry the economic momentum the Valley Isle has been seeing for much of the last year. Pacific Business News.

This summer, seven high school students experienced what it is like to be a doctor as they made rounds with physicians at the hospital, witnessed surgeries and even dealt with dying patients. Maui News.

The National Marine Fisheries Service has scheduled hearings this month in Kaunakakai and Kihei to gather public input on a draft programmatic environmental impact statement for its plans to help the recovery of the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Maui News.

Fire officials say arson is the cause of a fire that broke out at the Maui Drug Court Office Tuesday morning. KHON2.

Kauai

In recent weeks, Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank in Lihu‘e has been fending off a flurry of accusations made by an O‘ahu food bank official. A central allegation is that KIFB charges a steep service fee while Hawai‘i Food Bank does not. Garden Island.

County prosecutors are concerned that marijuana legalization advocates may influence state legislative decisions because those advocates are well organized and more active than their opponents. Garden Island.

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Honolulu mayor says homeless worse than rats, DOE mulls school closure, Hirono visits Maui, Kauai, APEC holds photo contest, Hawaii reapportionment plans public, more news from all the Hawaii Islands

Abel Lui (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
A state panel sympathetic to Native Hawaiians living on a disputed Kawaa Bay parcel is assuming oversight as battles rage in court over ownership and access rights. West Hawaii Today.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation is holding a photo contest open to all photographers living in any of the communities participating in APEC. KHON2.

This year, 15 pedestrians have died on Hawaii roads, 12 of them on Oahu. Two were on Maui, and one was on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

With just one Hawaii high school reaching the high proficiency benchmarks set under the federal No Child Left Behind law this year, administrators are turning to the accreditation process to provide parents a better understanding of whether their schools are making the grade. Star-Advertiser.

The state agreed to 10 "concessions" in its effort to get the Hawaii teachers union to agree to a "last, best and final" offer that included pay cuts and furloughs. Civil Beat.

Against a backdrop of local slowing and deteriorating conditions in the U.S. and global economy, Hawaii will see only modest growth in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaiian monk seal — the nation's most imperiled marine mammal — is on the verge of getting its own emergency room. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu's homeless problem is so troublesome that Mayor Peter Carlisle says it's worse than a rat infestation.. Civil Beat.

After state officials evicted the homeless who took refuge under the freeway viaduct, the squatters moved across the street. KITV4.

Likelike Elementary School is the latest Hawaii public school that could be closed in order to save the state money. Hawaii News Now.

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. That’s what Bombardier Transportation    (Holdings) USA is doing as it attempts to win the core systems contract for City and County of Honolulu’s $5.3 billion rail project. Pacific Business News.

Now that it has decided to include various nonresident populations in the overall population base, the City Council Reapportionment Commission is preparing to draw its new set of political boundaries for Oahu's nine Council districts. Star-Advertiser.

A City Council Reapportionment Commission meeting takes place on Wednesday, September 7 in Honolulu Hale. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Honeybees. They're responsible for pollinating one-third of the food we eat, but could humans be putting them in peril with the pesticides we use? West Hawaii Today.

Three Puna roads stand to receive a combined $450,000 face-lift that won't cost local taxpayers a dime. Tribune-Herald.

The Keaukaha Panaewa Farmers Association hopes to spark that revolution with the opening of its Hawaiian Farmers Market. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono brought together about two dozen experts recently to help island residents facing the prospect of losing their homes to lenders or their life savings to scam artists. Maui News.

The Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce presented its third annual Ko'i Awards on Friday evening to three Mauians and a business for showing excellence in leadership, diligence in action and responsibility to their native community. Maui News.

Kauai

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono says the president will speak to Congress on Thursday to make a bipartisan effort to move the economy. Garden Island.

The 21st annual Hawai‘i International Tropical Fruit Conference kicks off Friday on the Big Island and continues with consecutive “After the Conference” gatherings on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu and Maui. Garden Island.

A project on Kauai is paying tribute to victims of the 9/11 attacks by encouraging acts of kindness. Associated Press.

Molokai

Molokai public schools have joined many in the state participating in a program that aims to raise students’ test scores. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments on a draft conservation plan for Molokai’s Kakahai`a National Wildlife Refuge. Molokai Dispatch.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Japan gives Hawaii GMO papaya industry big boost, state tops nation for workplace meth, radiation worries at Kaneohe Bay, Big island power plant advances, DLNR scolded by Army Corps over boat dock, Kona coffee deal reached, Maui taking flowers stateside, Kaui leads state in economic growth, more Hawaii news

Hilo farmers market (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
The Japanese government has approved the commercial import of genetically modified papayas from Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Japanese consumers will likely be seeing genetically modified papayas on their grocery shelves beginning in December. West Hawaii Today.

There was no tsunami warning issued for Hawaii following a large earthquake that hit near Alaska Friday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's economic recovery is turning out to be weaker than previously thought, leaving the state in a vulnerable position as the U.S. and global economies continue to slow, according to a forecast released by a group of University of Hawaii economists.Star-Advertiser.

Hawai’i was a beneficiary of Congressional Earmarks for decades …receiving 200-to-300 million dollars a year in dedicated federal funding. Hawaii Public Radio.

A new study shows Hawaii leads the nation for methamphetamine use in the workforce. Associated Press.

Hawaii ranks 29th worst for the condition of its roads in rural areas and 16th worst for the condition of its bridges. Hawaii Reporter.

A bipartisan showing of Maui political leaders appealed to members of the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission on Wednesday to give greater representation to the Neighbor Islands as the panel draws election maps. Maui News.

The Public Land Development Corporation and its Public Lands Optimization Plan, despite the unfortunate acronym of PLOP, seems to be embraced by State officials who are looking to generate revenue through the commercial development of public lands in Hawaii through public-private partnerships. Hawaii Independent.

One Hawaii lawmaker learned the hard way how far you can go in using your public office for private business when state Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo put a stop to an email fundraiser. Civil Beat.

Federal officials are asking the community to actively participate in a plan that could shape the efforts to save the highly endangered Hawaiian monk seal, whose estimated population of 1,300 to 1,400 keeps declining about 4.5 percent a year. Garden Island.

Oahu

Former state Sen. Robert "Bobby" Bunda has been tapped to fill the 10th seat on the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's board of directors. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning months away from breaking ground. KHON2.

Local environmentalist Carroll Cox is raising concerns about the lack of public notification of what the Marine Corps revealed Thursday was a "low level" radiation release in the March crash of a CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter on the Kaneohe Bay sandbar that killed a crewmember and injured three others. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly one year after Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle was elected, he says he's proudest of getting the city's finances in order. And he has big dreams for a billion-dollar rainy day fund to ensure the city's financial future. Civil Beat.

Waikiki Hotel Employees Claim Threats, Intimidation. KITV4.

Hawaii

Safeway has agreed to change the label on packages of Kona coffee blend sold in mainland stores in response to concerns from Hawaii farmers that it didn't provide information about what percentage of the famous bean it contains. Associated Press.

The company planning to open a wood-burning power plant in Pepeekeo has received a key permit that incorporates the federal government's request for tougher emission limits. Tribune-Herald.

Almost half of the Big Island's children were exposed to alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use while in the womb, researchers report. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Thursday told the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to quit working on the Poihiki boat ramp until it gets a permit. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The nonprofit East Maui Animal Refuge is hoping to regain federal and state permits to accept sick, injured and orphaned wildlife, after its federal wildlife rehabilitation permit was suspended Monday when agents seized 17 birds from the Haiku facility, said Executive Director Sylvan Schwab. Maui News.

The Maui County Office of Economic Development has announced that it has purchased ten booths at the Philadelphia International Flower Show, held from March 4 to 11. Hawaii Independent.

Kauai

Despite losing the most during the recession, Kauai is showing the strongest job growth among Hawaii’s Neighbor Island counties, according to a forecast by economist Leroy Laney. Pacific Business News.

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Electronic Benefits Transfer programs will be able to shop at four farmers markets and sunshine markets, starting this weekend. Garden Island.

The military says an interceptor missile failed to shoot down its intended target during a test off the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Associated Press.



Thursday, September 1, 2011

Military on the move, sex ed pushed for Hawaii schools, OHA seeks new head, fishermen worry about monk seal plan, Hawaiian Airline interisland bag fees rise, Mazie, Mufi campaign, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Russell courtesy photo
The Pearl Harbor-based guided-missile destroyer USS Russell will leave today for an independent deployment to the Western Pacific and Middle East, the Navy announced today. Star-Advertiser.

The mostly citizen soldiers of Company C, 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment are shipping out today for a yearlong deployment that will take them first to Texas for six weeks of training and then to war-torn Iraq. Tribune-Herald.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono sees herself as an advocate for Hawaii's people, calling herself an effective legislator who can represent the state's interest in the U.S. Senate. West Hawaii Today.

Although he lives in urban Honolulu, former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said he has the experience, familiarity with and affinity for the Neighbor Islands that would allow him to well serve residents in Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District. Maui News.

Several fishing enthusiasts, along with state Rep. John Mizuno, said Wednesday they will ask federal officials to delay any decision to expand the critical habitat for monk seals or to relocate monk seal pups to the main Hawaiian Islands as part of a three-year conservation recovery program. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is expected to replace longtime Administrator and Chief Executive Officer Clyde Namuo within the next 12 months. Star-Advertiser.


Nominations are being sought for seats on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. Associated Press.

The state didn't return to talks after the Hawaii State Teachers Association's board unanimously rejected a "last, best and final" offer because union negotiators withdrew their support for the deal and the state believed it would have to restart discussions at square one, Board of Education member Jim Williams testified Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Planned Parenthood, the ACLU and other groups want to turn sex education in public schools from elective to mandatory. KITV4.

After facing its first losing quarter in three years Hawaiian Airlines has raised its fee for luggage on interisland flights. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Ever wonder how the city picks which roads are repaved first?  It's a question that was addressed Wednesday afternoon by members of the Honolulu City Council’s Public Works Committee. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Out of Step With Other Departments on Undercover Officers. Civil Beat.

The owner of The Waikiki Edition Hotel filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Wednesday as executives from Marriott International Inc. waited to take back management of the hotel. Pacific Business News.

Leeward Coast Residents Denied a Secondary Road. Hawaii Public Radio.

Turtle Bay developers back at the bargaining table, hope for cool heads. Hawaii Independent.

Disqualified rail bidder Bombardier Transportation sent a letter to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board to ask for a reconsideration. Star-Advertiser.

A "Culture Of Violence" At Waikiki Nightspot. Hawaii Reporter.

Japanese billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto is finally begining to address the safety concerns of some of his Kahaluu neighbors. KITV4.

Hawaii

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is working with Hawaii County to maximize its investment from the 250-kilowatt solar system placed atop of the West Hawaii Civic Center's parking facility, which has 14 electric vehicle conduits. West Hawaii Today.

Even as they plan a series of tuition hikes, University of Hawaii at Hilo administrators say they hope to make attending classes more affordable for their most needy students. Tribune-Herald.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has partnered with Hawaiian Legacy Hardwoods in planting up to 500,000 “legacy” koa trees on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

High surf forced the closure of Puna's Pohoiki boat-launch ramp Tuesday, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation said in a written statement. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council Water Resources Committee advanced a bill Tuesday that would allow water from the Hamakuapoko wells to be provided to Upcountry consumers. Maui News.

HNU-Energy, a Wailuku-based company that custom engineers renewable energy technology through research and development, was selected as the Maui County winner in the APEC 2011 Hawaii Business Innovation Showcase. Maui News.

Kauai


In an ongoing effort to boost AT&T wireless service in Hawaii, a new cell tower is being added on Kauai. Associated Press.

The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative at its Tuesday board meeting took action to strengthen both the voice of its board members and those of the community. Garden Island.

The state Department of Education on Friday announced two more Kaua‘i schools have met federal Adequate Yearly Progress standards, a measure by which public schools are held accountable for student performance under the No Child Left Behind Act. Garden Island.


Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Hannemann 'the one to beat,' military expands Hawaii's $62M remains identity lab, DOT seeks 50 engineers, Kauai taro gets boost, Honolulu surveillance cams raise privacy concerns, more Hawaii news

Mufi Hannemann (c) 2011 All Hawaii News
Over the years, former Honolulu Mayor and newly announced congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann has developed the reputation of being a bully. Civil Beat.

Gabbard's Six Unions Didn't Go for Mufi Last Time, Either. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now political analyst Dan Boylan said Hannemann is the one to beat. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann is seeking the Democratic nomination to replace outgoing U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono he announced Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Contract negotiators for the state made it clear to the teachers union in late April that if it didn't accept a labor savings deal, there would be big consequences, Board of Education member Jim Williams said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sex, drugs, and education: An inside look at Hawaii’s schools. Hawaii Independent.

The state Department of Health is again offering free flu vaccines to elementary and middle school students at more than 300 schools statewide. Associated Press.

The State Department of Transportation is looking to hire fifty people. KHON2.

In a classic Catch-22, Hawaii law requires elevators to pass an annual inspection, but the state cannot perform the safety tests fast enough to meet demand. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

By 2014 the Hawaii-based unit in charge of recovering and identifying remains of Americans listed as missing in action from the nation's wars will be working in a new facility that will increase efficiency and productivity, a military official said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Inouye Visits JPAC Groundbreaking Site. KITV4.

Several West Oahu residents testified Tuesday night against a political redistricting proposal that would no longer place Makakilo, Kapolei and Ko Olina in the same congressional district. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is being asked to approve a $1.4 million plan for Honolulu Police to use the traffic cameras to help with security during the economic summit in November. KITV4.

Proposed surveillance cameras raise privacy concerns. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council is considering a measure that would set aside up to $75 million for artwork that would be incorporated in the $5.3 billion elevated rail transit system. Pacific Business News.

The head of a new organization dedicated to preserving the Second Amendment has sued Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha in federal court after Kealoha denied him in September 2010 a permit to carry and conceal a semiautomatic pistol. Star-Advertiser.

A subsidiary of Honeywell International Inc. is building a refinery on Oahu that will convert algae and other biomass into high-quality gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Associated Press.

Honolulu lifeguards and fire fighters helped bring 315 people back to shore as of Tuesday afternoon as a 12-15 foot swell pounded the South Shore of Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii

Approximately 50 soldiers from Hilo will deploy to Iraq on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

If you have an injury that requires magnetic resonance imaging, you now have access to the best technology on the neighbor islands, Kona Community Hospital officials say. West Hawaii Today.

The fight to launch a charter school in Laupahoehoe may not be over yet. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Mayor Alan Arakawa said Monday that Maui County should create a new division to focus on sustainability issues, and that adding "sustainability" to the Department of Environmental Management was one of his top priorities for charter amendments. Maui News.

Two Maui legislators are meeting with state officials this week for answers on why a state affordable housing project is 40 per cent empty. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

The Taro Security and Purity Task Force announced last week that it has been awarded a grant of $135,000 a year for two years from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Garden Island.

In light of the recent hurricane that struck the East Coast, county officials on Tuesday urged residents and businesses who have not yet signed up for Connect CTY to do so. Garden Island.