University of Hawaii president stepping down, $48.4M in welfare overpayments, Honolulu Police Department database hacked, GOP rebuffed in Legislature, state officials gain from Hawaiian Home Lands, vog lingers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

UH President MRC Greenwood at Board of Regents meeting (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

M.R.C. Greenwood, who drew high praise and strong criticism during her four years at the helm of the University of Hawaii system, has announced she will retire in September to spend more time with family and deal with her health problems. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood will retire this summer after four years as the head of the state’s university system. Pacific Business News.

After a number of high profile battles with key Hawaii lawmakers in 2012 and 2013, University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood announced Tuesday she will retire in September, before her $475,000-plus annual contract with the University expires in 2015. Hawaii Reporter.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood will retire in September, an announcement from the university Monday said. Maui News.

MRC Greenwood

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood plans to retire two years before the end of her contract, a departure she claimed had nothing to do with the failed Stevie Wonder concert that brought her leadership under scrutiny.  Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii President MRC Greenwood is resigning her post in September, according to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. KITV4.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood announced on Monday — she’s retiring from the presidency in September, two years before her contract expires. KHON2.

Hawaii's historic preservation agency has missed a major deadline for making federally mandated improvements to its program, and could still lose its federal certification and funding, officials said. Civil Beat.

Unfair welfare: Investigation reveals $48.4 million in overpayments. KHON2.

The Hawaii Association of Realtors was the top donor to Hawaii lawmakers in 2011 and 2012, with the association donating $110,100 to 83 percent of the state's 76 lawmakers. Hawaii Reporter.

The new power granted Republicans in the state Legislature this year did not translate into getting caucus bills passed; many never received a hearing. Civil Beat.

State Sen. Malama Solomon, former Department of Hawaiian Home Lands Commissioner Stuart Hanchett and about 20 other Native Hawaiians are members of an exclusive group. While on DHHL waitlists for ranching or farming homestead lots, they obtained month-to-month revocable permits for pastoral or agriculture land from the agency, according to a Star-Advertiser analysis of DHHL data.

Kamehameha Schools CEO Dee Jay Mailer has announced plans to retire at the end of 2014, giving the school's board of trustees ample time to recruit a successor. Star-Advertiser.

For most people who live in Hawaii, dealing with vog is just another part of daily life. But for those with breathing difficulties, volcanic smog can complicate health issues. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The names, email addresses, cellphone numbers and passwords for about 3,500 people who signed up for email or text message alerts from the Hono­lulu Police Department's former "HPD Alerts" system may have had their personal information compromised after the server was hacked by "an unauthorized person or persons" over the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

HPD has confirmed one of their databases containing information about the public has been hacked. Officials say anyone who has ever signed up for an "HPD alert" using their email address or phone number has been exposed. Hawaii News Now.

Angst abounds after last week’s joint announcement from Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell about demolishing the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial, highlighting deep rifts that don’t appear to be going away anytime soon. Civil Beat.

Federal budget cuts are forcing Pearl Harbor to cancel its July 4 fireworks and the Marine Corps to cancel its annual Bayfest event at Kaneohe Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Dominic Yagong's and Jamae Kawauchi’s request to investigate the county’s Elections Division was part of a larger conspiracy to take over the county’s elections, an attorney argued Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Both of the state’s 2013 U.S. Presidential Scholars attend school in Waimea — Zoe Sims at Hawaii Preparatory Academy and Paul Gregg at Parker School. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

For the past 17 years, James and Jane Sakugawa have rented roughly 5,000 acres of ranch property on Maui from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. That is 80 percent of all land DHHL is leasing to tenants on that island through its revocable-permit program. Yet the Saku­ga­was are not Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. Star-Advertiser.

As part of a statewide crackdown on distracted driving, Maui police officers gave out more than 1,000 citations to drivers using cellphones last month, nearly doubling the total for the previous four months. Maui News.

Kauai

Gov. Neil Abercrombie triggered a round of joy when he signed a check Monday for the Kaua‘i Philippine Cultural Center. Garden Island.

The state Legislature has approved a bill authorizing the administration to issue up to $1.3 million in bonds to Sunrise Capital’s shrimp farm in Kekaha to protect its hatchery against shoreline erosion. Garden Island.

A plan to update Kauai’s single-lane Opaekaa Bridge has officials and residents discussing how much of the bridge’s history should be preserved while structural changes are made to enhance safety. Associated Press.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s board of directors said Monday that it wants its 23,300 active members to offer their comments and ideas for the utility’s updated 2013-2025 strategic plan. Pacific Business News.

Schatz-Hanabusa contest tight, smokers to be ejected from public housing, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands scrutinized, state to keep chunk of transit tax, Inouye's legacy continues, Abercrombie stumps on islands, preschool plan falters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brian Schatz, Colleen Hanabusa vie for U.S. Senate seat

Though myriad factors will come into play in Hawaii Rep. Colleen Hanabusa’s campaign against Sen. Brian Schatz, from Hawaii’s demographics to fundraising, much of the campaign will hinge on what happens in the halls of Congress over the next several months. Civil Beat.

Governor's legislative defeat puts tots in educational bind. The state's intent was to phase out junior kindergarten — launched in 2006 for late-born 4-year-olds — while rolling out a plan for publicly funded universal preschool. Hawaii is one of 11 states without state-funded preschool. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of tenants are leasing more than 38,000 acres of mostly undeveloped land from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands for as little as pennies per acre monthly, with the deals administered through a revocable-permit program plagued by lax oversight and selective enforcement, a Star-Advertiser investigation has found.

For several years, Robin Danner has been a persistent critic of top administrators at the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Star-Advertiser.

Although the state Legislature is a part-time institution, most lawmakers will say their work does not end when the gavel comes down on closing day. Star-Advertiser.

The Legislature this week approved a record-setting $24 billion biennium budget that includes funding for operations and capital improvement projects for fiscal years 2014 and 2015. Hawaii Reporter.

Tenants caught smoking three times or more in apartments or common areas at any of the state's 85 public housing properties could be evicted under a tough new smoking ban effective this month. Star-Advertiser.

Reason TV sat down with Ken Schoolland, professor of economics at Hawaii Pacific University  to talk about the Jones Act, federal legislation that restricts foreign-flagged ships from engaging in commerce in domestic shipping lanes. Hawaii Reporter.
 
Oahu

A measure that would have reduced how much money the state pockets in exchange for collecting the tax used to fund Hono­lulu's rail project died in this year's legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

According to the disclosure forms filed with Congress, in 2010 lobbyists — many of them defense firms seeking defense contracts — reported making $449,000 "honoree donations" to the Pacific Aviation Museum, all in honor of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii. Civil Beat.

There are mystery men — or women — inside Honolulu Hale. And by not telling us who they are Mayor Kirk Caldwell is violating a state law that requires disclosure of the names of government employees.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii can expect to see its very first Olive Garden restaurant on Oahu at the 1.4-million square-foot, $500 million Ka Makana Alii mixed-use regional shopping center in Kapolei, according to the head of DeBartolo Development. Pacific Business News.

It's the final chapter for east O'ahu's biggest bookstore -- the Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Kahala Mall will soon be closing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Hawaii County is emerging from five years of economic doldrums that saw construction projects plummet, with contractors, consultants and labor unions now looking forward to a slower, more sustainable rise in development. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie was in Hilo Sunday on part of a three-day Neighbor Island tour to announce he’s running for reelection in 2014. Tribune-Herald.

Funding for the Kona Judiciary Complex and the Hawaii Community College at Palamanui top two West Hawaii legislators’ lists of capital improvement project successes this session. West Hawaii Today.

Festival celebrates Ka'u coffee's growing stature. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa said Friday that the difference between his $574 million budget proposal and County Council Budget Committee Chairman Mike White's $551 million basically status-quo plan is a long-term versus a short-term view of the needs of Maui County. Maui News.

The Legislature passed a bill directing state officials to pursue buying a scenic stretch of coastal land from Maui Land & Pineapple Co. to protect the area from possible development and shore up company pension obligations. But the bill was passed without a budget appropriation, making acquisition questionable. Star-Advertiser.

Eddie Would Go documentary set to open Maui’s film festival. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Visitors Bureau is presenting an event at a San Diego mall next weekend to promote tourism to the Garden Island just a few weeks ahead of Alaska Airlines’ launch of its nonstop service between San Diego and Lihue. Pacific Business News.

Reports that airlines are scaling back flights to Hawai‘i this summer have alarmed some who fear it will hurt tourism, but others say it’s cyclical and does not present a serious concern. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Therapy & Wellness and In Home Services opened a new site Wednesday during a Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting ceremony. Garden Island.

Molokai

Stacy Helm Crivello joined Maui County Council as the Molokai representative in January. A few months into her new role, Crivello answered questions from the Dispatch about serving as a county councilmember. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii Legislature adjourns sine die, Hanabusa announces U.S. Senate bid, Honolulu rail in the black, Hawaii Island mayor touts 10% tax hike, county employees charged with diesel theft, Maui resort blocks beach access, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature sings Hawaii Aloha on closing day, photo courtesy Mileka Lincoln

Hawaii lawmakers touted the triumphs of this year’s legislative session as it came to a close Thursday at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers in the Hawaii Legislature say the 2013 session provided a smoother, more transparent legislative process than previous years, ensuring the success of key progressive legislation. Associated Press.

State lawmakers on the closing day of the 2013 legislative session revived two bills requiring greater disclosure from super PACs, although both appeared dead earlier in the week as a result of what legislators described as poor communication. Star-Advertiser.

The 2013 legislative session came to a close today, and leaders from both the House and Senate say this was one of the most cooperative and transparent sessions yet. Hawaii News Now.

The State Legislature adjourned its 60-day session today…following passage of a state budget and less than 10 percent of the bills that were originally introduced. Hawaii Public Radio.

On the last day of the 2013 legislative session, Democrats in charge of the Hawaii House of Representatives took the rare step of adding four more members to leadership posts. Civil Beat.

Although the Legislature failed to pass bills this session to fund the state's watershed protection initiatives by collecting a fee imposed on nonrecyclable bags or increasing taxes on expensive real estate transactions, the Department of Land and Natural Resources said it is satisfied with the level of funding lawmakers did choose to provide. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Legislature adjourned Thursday without taking further action on a bill that would have tweaked the law requiring police agencies to file annual summaries listing disciplinary actions taken against their officers. Civil Beat.

Before gaveling the session closed, House Speaker Joseph M. Souki acknowledged the work of everyone involved in the legislative process and summarized the session's accomplishments. Hawaii Reporter.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa of Hawaii says she plans to run against fellow Democrat and incumbent U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz in 2014, setting up a primary battle between two of the state’s four federal lawmakers. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa will emphasize leadership experience, and not the dying wish of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Ino­uye, in her Demo­cratic primary challenge next year against U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa announced in a seven-paragraph letter on her web site that she'll run for the U.S. Senate next year, attaching her name to the Democratic primary that's sure to be a dogfight. Hawaii News Now.

On the day he died in December of 2012, Senator Daniel Inouye wrote a letter to Gov. Neil Abercrombie and reportedly asked that he appoint then-Congresswoman Elect Colleen Hanabusa to replace him in the U.S. Senate after his death. Hawaii News Now.

Civil Beat political reporter Chad Blair chats with U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in her Nuuanu home about her run for U.S. Senate against incumbent Sen. Brian Schatz. Will she give up her House seat to do it?

Hawaii Gas has withdrawn its application for approval to use liquefied natural gas in its utility gas system to allow both the Honolulu-based company and the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission to focus their resources on the review of feedstock supply agreements. Pacific Business News.

This year marks the 100th anniversary for film in Hawaii and with several major movies, such as “Jurassic Park 4” and “Godzilla,” planning to shoot scenes in Hawaii, the next 100 years is starting off with a bang. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Honolulu rail officials reported a third-quarter turnaround Thursday on how much cash the massive project is collecting. They also offered a rosier forecast for how much its yearlong construction delay will cost. Star-Advertiser.

A campus that’s in disrepair. Students paying more. Even cuts in the classroom. So why is the University of Hawaii spending big bucks on recruiting for high-paid positions? And is it money well spent? KHON2.

Less than a week after Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed a new proposal aimed at going after owners of neglected city properties, Hawaii News Now found a city building with tall weeds and grass in front and lots of graffiti on it. Hawaii News Now.

A department store, cinema, hotel and 50 more retailers and restaurants have been added to plans for a first phase of the long-delayed Ka Makana Ali'i regional mall in East Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

Up close and personal with the mayor. People went to Pearl City, to Mayor Kirk Caldwell's first town hall stop. KITV4.

Honolulu police explosives specialists responded to two more suspicious objects on different sides of the island Thursday, including what was determined to be "an incendiary device" near the Kahuku school complex. Star-Advertiser.

Native vegetation, which is being steadily killed off by invasives, now covers only 32 percent of Hawaii’s land. Our survival is at stake, as well. So how do we carefully take our next step? Honolulu Weekly.

Hawaii

Across-the-board property tax hikes of about 10 percent, along with increases in bus fares and vehicle registration and weight taxes, will fund a revised county budget proposed Thursday by Mayor Billy Kenoi. West Hawaii Today.

Two former Department of Environmental Management employees have been charged with felony theft for allegedly stealing diesel fuel from pumps at the Waimea baseyard. West Hawaii Today.

Thursday morning’s fire in Keaukaha helped to highlight a question that emergency responders are having trouble answering fully: Who exactly has a copy of the key to open the gates for the emergency evacuation route through Hilo International Airport? Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County's finance director Wednesday passionately defended his request for six new Division of Motor Vehicle and Licensing positions, noting his current workers are burdened with new duties and that they need more help to service the public adequately. Maui News.

Gates restrict access to Honokeana Cove. About a month ago, Honokeana Cove Resort Condominiums put up gates that require an access code, which prevents nonguests from walking through private property. Maui News.

Three Maui historic preservation projects will receive Preservation Awards and two printed publications Preservation Media Awards from the Historic Hawai'i Foundation at the group's 30th annual Preservation Honor Awards ceremony May 31 on Oahu. Maui News.

Kauai

Since March 15, the Kauai County Council has been holding numerous sessions devoted to examining the requested departmental budget components. On or before May 8, the mayor may submit any modifications or changes he may seek in the budget, and by June 7, the council must enact the budget ordinance. Garden Island.

The Wailua portion of the Ke Ala Hele Makalae, or the path that goes by the coast, was supposed to be completed Tuesday — a month later than the original deadline. Garden Island.

Biotech seed company Syngenta will relocate about five employees to Kaua‘i from O‘ahu as part of a redistribution of research and development work, according to company spokesman Paul Minehart. Garden Island.

Media blames senator for killing shield law, union bosses make big bucks, medical marijuana bill limits doctors, bill of rights passed for domestic workers, HMSA rate hike trimmed, safe place bill dies, tsunami debris removal grants announced, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Legislature is holding its last session of 2013. Both the House and the Senate plan to meet this morning. They plan to vote on just a handful of bills, including proposals addressing the state's settlements with unions and unfunded liabilities for employee benefits. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers have overwhelmingly approved a historic shift in how the state manages its medical marijuana program after years of failed efforts to reform it. House Bill 668 authorizes the transfer of the program from the Department of Public Safety to the Department of Health. Civil Beat.

A coalition of Hawaii news media is blaming the state Senate for failing to extend a journalism shield law past its expiration on June 30. Associated Press.

Sen. Clayton Hee

Free-press advocates lamented the impending expiration of the state's news media "shield law," hailed nationally as a model for protection of news sources, and laid the blame squarely on Sen. Clayton Hee, the Senate's judiciary and labor chairman. Star-Advertiser.

Senate Judiciary and Labor Chair Clayton Hee is not known for his compassion, consistency or tolerance for mainland folk. This year, it was the media – not a particular person or judicial candidate – who was the focus of his ire. This followed an unflattering and brief but trashy story in a Republican blog during the 2012 election that used no sources when accusing Hee of misdeeds clearly in an attempt to influence voters in the November election. Hawaii Reporter.

A national organization representing local groups of nannies, housekeepers and other domestic workers is praising Hawaii’s Legislature for passing a bill to create a domestic workers bill of rights. Associated Press.

Senate Bill 391 would have established a network of "safe places" for youth. The two-year pilot program would've made use of existing organizations such as the YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club. But the measure, which was the state Keiki Caucus's top priority this year, died in conference committee Friday. Civil Beat.

There's a bill headed to Gov. Neil Abercrombie's desk that could help law enforcement keep tabs on gun registration and this is a proposal some Hawaii gun rights advocates are getting behind. KITV4.

The state Insurance Division has reduced Hawaii Medical Service Association’s proposed 8.6 percent premium rate increase to 6.8 perecent for small businesses renewing health policies in July, for an estimated 118,000 Hawaii consumers, a move it said would save businesses about $10 million. Star-Advertiser.

A national organization that has been ranking states’ educational policies and outcomes for nearly two decades dropped Hawaii’s grade this year in some areas, but noted significant improvements in others. West Hawaii Today.

At a time when many of their members are still struggling to find work, the heads of Hawaii's construction unions are taking home fat pay checks. Hawaii News Now.

Med School Puts Best Face Forward with in-depth report To Lawmakers. Civil Beat.

Former state Rep. Gil Riviere, who represented the North Shore in the House for one term before losing in the Republican primary last year, said he will switch political parties and become a Democrat as he tries to reclaim the seat next year. Currently, there are 44 Democrats and 7 Republicans is in the Hawaii House. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie, US Senator Brian Schatz, and State Senator Gil Keith-Agaran will be the featured speakers at the upcoming annual Convention for the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi on Maui. Maui Now.

State roundup for May 1. Associated Press.

Oahu

The ground breaks today on a sweeping four-year $739 million modernization of Honolulu Airport, starting with a new maintenance building for Aloha Air Cargo. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu prosecutor's office says that in the six-month period from October through March, there were 31 trials and 243 dismissals due to speedy trial requirements. That's one trial per eight dismissals. Victims advocates say those statistics are poor incentive for domestic violence victims to stick with their cases. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Wednesday he will use the newly enacted sidewalk nuisance law to keep members of (de)Occupy Honolulu from camping on sidewalks around Thomas Square. Star-Advertiser.

The city is cracking down on illegal dumping in Oahu neighborhoods. Inspectors can now issue hefty fines for bulky items dumped curbside days or weeks before collection, but some people are concerned about fair enforcement. Hawaii News Now.

A planned Kakaako condominium tower dubbed 803 Waimanu reserved for middle-income buyers will be a relatively tight fit for its location — too tight for residents in an adjacent high-rise who objected to the project at a public hearing Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A local project is taking steps to ensure that excess produce gets to the people who need it the most. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council is asking the mayor to find $500,000 to bolster the Fire Department’s budget before summer begins. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii is fighting back against the coffee berry borer beetle. The pernicious pest has frustrated farmers in the Kona and Ka‘u coffee belts since its discovery in 2010, leading to decreased quality of West Hawaii’s famous black gold and many pounds of beans unharvestable. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

At least two Maui County Council members said Tuesday that they intend to seek small increases in the county's current property tax rates to provide more funds for nonprofit organizations and to upgrade needed county services and programs. Maui News.

The Hawaii Wildlife Fund has received a $20,000 grant from the state to help mitigate the possible environmental impacts of Japan tsunami marine debris in Maui County. Maui News.

A rally will be held on Thursday, May 2, to protest the planned lottery for placement in the Hawaiian language immersion kindergarten at Pāʻia Elementary School on Maui. Maui Now.

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. Inc. reported a net loss of $1.8 million, or 10 cents per share, for the first quarter, compared to a loss of $200,000, or 1 cent per share, for the same quarter in 2012. Pacific Business News.

A Lahaina boat captain was ordered to pay $4,000 in fines after pleading guilty Tuesday to negligent homicide and other charges in the death of a diver who was struck by an inflatable boat in waters off Lanai two years ago. Maui News.

Kauai

Fifty residents representing a handful of organizations showed up at the Kaua‘i County Council meeting Wednesday morning, asking for support on a bill against biotech companies that grow genetically modified organisms. Garden Island.

The Surfrider Foundation of Kaua‘i landed a $25,000 grant to help clean up Japanese tsunami debris washing up on Kaua‘i’s shorelines. Garden Island.

Honolulu to tear down Natatorium, Hawaii Legislature passes $23.8B biennium budget, preschool vouchers moves to ballot, shield law dies, newspaper readers go digital, WWII bomb found in Maui field, Gabbard tours schools, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Natatorium (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Mayor Kirk Caldwell today announced a partnership to develop a public memorial beach at the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium. Star-Advertiser.

Is a 45-year fight finally over? Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell say the walls of the Waikiki Natatorium will be torn down. Civil Beat.

The Natatorium in Waikiki was built in 1927 as a tribute to those who served in World War I. Hawaii News Now.

Both chambers of the Hawaii Legislature unanimously passed a $23.8 billion biennium budget Tuesday, sending the bill to fund state operations to Gov. Neil Abercrombie for final approval. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State Legislature today voted unanimously in both the House and Senate to approve the state budget for the upcoming FY2013-2015 biennium. Hawaii Reporter.

The State Legislature unanimously approved the Executive Operating and Construction Budgets today. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii House and Senate separately passed dozens of bills Tuesday touching on issues ranging from energy to education, starting a marathon session by passing a $23.8 billion budget and largely putting off the toughest decisions to the end of the day. Associated Press.

Voters will decide in November 2014 whether public money should be used for private preschool, the linchpin of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's early education initiative. Star-Advertiser.

Voters will decide next year whether Hawaii’s constitution should be amended to let the state use public money for private preschool. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's news media "shield law," a measure that has been praised nationally for including emerging forms of digital and online media in affording journalists a measure of protection from having to reveal confidential sources in court, is due to expire in two months after lawmakers failed Tuesday to approve an extension. Star-Advertiser.

Barring some last-minute legislative maneuver, Hawaii’s shield law protecting journalists from disclosing confidential sources and turning over their notes will expire June 30 since lawmakers failed to agree on a bill to renew it Tuesday. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii House has amended a bill to extend the state shield law for the next two years to keep existing source protections for journalists, including those who work for digital newspapers and free publications. Associated Press.

A bill designed to streamline the process under which severely mentally ill people can be ordered to get outpatient psychiatric help got final approval from lawmakers Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

People who bring guns from out of state may need to undergo a background check. It’s one of many bills passed out of the legislature Tuesday. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard is visiting low-income, low-performing Hawaii schools targeted for education reforms under a $75 million federal grant. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Government Employees Association’s Unit 13, which represents some 8,100 professional and scientific employees, has rejected the state’s two-year contract offer. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii Government Employees Association unit that represents professional and scientific employees has rejected a two-year contract offer from the state. The union announced this evening that 55 percent of the 8,100 worker unit voted against the offer. Star-Advertiser.

Whenever the state and counties reach a new contract agreement with one of the public employee unions, it is news, and lots of people are interested. Civil Beat.

Young candidates hope to start a generational change in Hawaii politics in next year's election, but it could as likely turn into a last stand by old-guard Democrats that cements our political status quo for another decade. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for May 1. Associated Press.

Oahu

Circulation for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s print edition declined in the past year, while the newspaper’s paid online subscriptions and branded editions pushed average total circulation up by 28 percent, according to figures released by the Audit Bureau of Circulations. Pacific Business News.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser's total average weekday circulation jumped nearly 28 percent in the past year, lifting it to 21st place among the nation's top 25 daily newspapers. Star-Advertiser.

Doctors trump CEOs for highest pay in Honolulu, according to a new analysis in which the top six highest-paying jobs in Hawaii’s largest city were from the medical profession. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu International Airport badly needs more plant quarantine inspectors' positions reinstated to deal with the nearly four million boxes of produce, seafood, flowers and plants that are inspected there every year, officials from the state Department of Agriculture said. Hawaii News Now.

Federal labor authorities are proposing $49,000 in fines against the owner of the five-star Halekulani hotel in Waikiki for 14 "serious" safety violations discovered during a routine inspection. Star-Advertiser.

The Aloha Stadium is looking for people who can fill 150 part-time jobs that need to be passionate about the games and showcase excellent customer service. KITV4.

Detectives have determined that the female who reported finding a baby at Sandy Beach on Sunday night is the baby's mother, a Honolulu Police Spokesperson tells Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii, will serve as the keynote speaker on Saturday, May 11, for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s commencement ceremony. Tribune-Herald.

The county’s planning director and Board of Appeals acted in violation of the Kona Community Development Plan and failed to uphold the county’s duty to protect natural resources in awarding a planned unit development permit to a South Kona developer, a 3rd Circuit Court judge ruled last week. West Hawaii Today.

Council members gave a preliminary nod to code changes that would allow the county to cut down trees on occupied property if the trees pose a danger to public safety or a neighbor’s property and the lot owner refuses to mitigate the dangers. West Hawaii Today.

County Councilwoman Valerie Poindexter served on a council subcommittee that steered $40,000 to a nonprofit where she is a board member and her child receives services. West Hawaii Today.

Recent thefts of unattended equipment have impacted scientists’ ability to monitor and predict volcanic activity in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

A $5 million class-action federal lawsuit accusing national supermarket chain Safeway of profiting off the reputation of Kona coffee while selling a product containing little Hawaii-grown coffee has been settled after nearly two years of litigation. West Hawaii Today.

Two Big Island resorts have been chosen by the venerable travel destination company Frommer’s as among the top 10 honeymoon destinations in Hawaii. Big Island Now.

More money will be needed to complete the makeover of Lanakila Housing units. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

An unexploded ordnance believed to be a World War II aerial bomb was discovered Monday morning in a Puunene cane field, police said. Maui News.

Authorities called in an emergency disposal unit to Maui after reports that a 2-foot unexploded piece of ordnance was found Monday morning in a Puʻunene cane field. Maui Now.

In the fall of 2015, Maui Waena Intermediate School hopes to add a new eight-classroom building to its campus, which will relieve overcrowded classrooms and boost the curriculum. Maui News.

The Lahaina Division of Motor Vehicle and Licensing satellite office will be closed from Monday to May 15 as it relocates to its new space at the Lahaina Gateway Center. Maui News.

Kauai

At 6:15 p.m. on Saturday — 100 years and four days after its first gleam at passing ships — the Kilauea Point Lighthouse will briefly cast its protective beacon across the waters of the Pacific once more. Garden Island.

The plans to bring back to life the iconic Coco Palms Resort in Wailua received a fatal blow Tuesday, when the Kaua‘i Planning Commission affirmed an order to revoke permits to rebuild the hotel that has been shut down for more than 20 years. Garden Island.

Abercrombie launches re-election bid, UPW contract inked, elections, solar credit, ag bills die, beach-born baby rescued, Maui councilor proposes no-new taxes budget, DLNR tackles Native Hawaiian protesters, Tesoro postpones layoffs, Caldwell staff get pay hikes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

UPW Director Nakanelua, Hawaii Gov Abercrombie courtesy photo

More than 9,000 blue-collar workers for the state and counties have a new four-year contract that their union says acknowledges the sacrifices they made during tough budgeting times. Star-Advertiser.

The state inked another union contract Monday, the latest deal to come down before the legislative session comes to a close this week. Gov. Neil Abercrombie and county mayors signed a four-year agreement with United Public Workers Unit 1, which represents some 8,000 blue-collar employees. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has formally launched his campaign to win a second term in 2014, saying Hawaii has built momentum coming out of recession and he wants it to continue. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie formally launched his re-election campaign Monday, citing the state's financial rebound and progress toward his "New Day" agenda as reasons voters should give him a second four-year term. Star-Advertiser.

Joined by Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and dozens of friends and supporters at Ward Warehouse Monday, Neil Abercrombie formally kicked off his 2014 re-election. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie launched his re-election campaign Monday, as the Republican Party searched for an opponent to run against him in 2014. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie launched his 2014 campaign for re-election on Monday, promising to keep the state’s economy strong and to improve the educational system. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii lawmakers are preparing to vote on the final bills of the legislative session after a heated week of negotiations, but some advocates are disappointed several initiatives failed in the final hours after gaining momentum earlier. Associated Press.

Hawaii Lawmakers Set to Debate and Pass About 150 Bills in Final Hours of the 2013 Session. Hawaii Reporter.

A bill that would have required an evaluation of the chief election officer after each general election died because of a procedural gaffe in a legislative conference committee last week. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would have changed the state tax credits for solar photovoltaic systems in Hawaii has failed to progress, leaving in place the administrative rules set by the state Department of Taxation that went into effect in November. Pacific Business News.

A contentious but at times comical scrap between Rep. Jessica Wooley and Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz has left in limbo $175 million in revenue bonds to preserve agricultural land. Star-Advertiser.

The Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability and Diversity is underway in Honolulu this week, and one thing they will be looking at is the connection between disabilities and prison incarceration. Hawaii Public Radio.

As a younger member of the Hawaii Supreme Court at age 46, Steven Levinson wrote the landmark opinion issued nearly 20 years ago that launched the debate over same-sex marriage that still reverberates today across the country and in the nation's highest court. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric said on Monday that a record 13.9 percent of energy came from renewable sources last year. KITV4.

Hawaii Teacher: New Teacher Evaluation System Will Damage Education. Civil Beat.

State roundup for April 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is taking a pay cut, but those closest to him are already making more than their predecessors in the Carlisle administration. Civil Beat.

Whoever abandoned a newborn girl at Sandy Beach late Sunday night could have avoided prosecution by turning the baby over to the proper authorities, state officials said. Star-Advertiser.

A shocking discovery was made on a south shore beach overnight. A baby just hours old was found abandoned on the sand. KHON2.

There are about 4,000 bus stops on Oahu, and right now there are no restrictions on where people who are waiting for the bus can smoke. Hawaii News Now.

The owner of a local wheel boot company may lose his business if a bill is approved this week at the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Tesoro Hawaii Corp. now says that it will hold off on laying off about 210 of its employees while the Texas-based refiner and marketer of petroleum products remains in discussions with potential buyers for its Kapolei refinery. Pacific Business News.

On Monday, as Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell led a walking caravan of local officials through downtown, traffic consultant Dan Burden challenged the group to make the streets there safer for pedestrians. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Sovereignty activists who planted a garden twice without permission near the King Kamehameha the Great statue in Hilo will be billed for the cost of removing their crops, William Aila, state Department of Land and Natural Resources chair, said Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Abel Simeona Lui, the colorful and controversial figure behind recent acts of Hawaiian sovereignty protests and civil disobedience around the island, will spend his 70th birthday in jail Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Real estate agents and appraisers agree — West Hawaii’s real estate market is hot again. West Hawaii Today.

A Fire Department hazardous materials team was unable to determine what caused people in the District courtroom at the Kona Courthouse in Kealakekua to begin coughing Monday morning. West Hawaii Today.

On Friday, state legislators approved $100,000 to fund early efforts to launch an international flight training center and advanced aviation degree program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Safeway has settled a lawsuit filed by a customer over the labeling of its “Kona Blend” coffee. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee Chairman Mike White is seeking to cut Mayor Alan Arakawa's proposed county budget for next fiscal year by $23 million and is proposing to not raise any real property taxes. Maui News.

Council Member Mike White today proposed the stabilization of real property tax rates in fiscal year 2014. Maui Now.

Hale Makua Health Services is accepting applications for financial assistance to its Adult Day Health program in Kahului, thanks to a $25,000 grant from The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation. Maui News.

Results of a remedial investigation of the ‘Āhihi Kīna‘u Natural Area Reserve in South Maui will be discussed during an upcoming public meeting, officials said. Maui Now.

Kauai

Seed crop producer Syngenta will move its Hawaii research operations from Oahu to Kauai in June, a company official said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

County building applications are set to go paperless this week. Effective Wednesday, building applications submitted electronically will receive priority over paper-based applications. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i’s unique topology and weather allows some of the best star gazing conditions at sea level, said Dr. James Dire. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature enters final week, minimim wage hike dies, PACS must name top campaign donors, state employee firings secret, Hawaii needs more hotels, officials warn of Kauai drownings, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature conference committee, courtesy photo

Committees of negotiators in the Hawaii Legislature have approved funding for several new initiatives, including proposals to revitalize emergency funds, create a new school readiness program and establish a new entrepreneurship initiative. Associated Press.

After discussing a slew of election-related bills this session, lawmakers agreed on a bill that will require political action committees to disclose in all advertisements the names of the top three donors that contributed to the message. Star-Advertiser.

Minimum Wage Hike Legislation Dies in Conference Committee. Hawaii Reporter.

The Media Council of Hawaii has sent a letter to all Hawaii state senators and representatives urging them to vote against House Bill 622, the weakened media shield law. Civil Beat.

Some federal and state officials are supporting the idea of shortening the permits process for work on traditional Hawaiian fishponds to encourage more restorations. Star-Advertiser.

State officials say they've recently discovered a conflict in state law that requires them to leave the public in the dark about government employees who are guilty of certain types of misconduct. Civil Beat.

In the past two years, state workers have been suspended and fired for a range of misconduct, including harassment, theft and workplace violence. Civil Beat.

By 2030, more than a third of Hawaii residents will be neighbor islanders, a reality that observers predict will almost certainly have repercussions big and small for everything from the state’s economy to its politics. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii interests are significantly scaling back on federal lobbying, the result of changes in the political landscape that are making it tougher to get issues through Congress and secure dwindling federal dollars. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Mark Dunkerley says that the state needs to provide an even more diverse mix of hotels to accommodate visitors to the Islands, including those from China. Pacific Business News.

Oahu
A new proposal before the Honolulu City Council would add bus stops to the growing number of places a person can't smoke on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time in more than 60 years, fireworks didn't light up the night in Kailua last Fourth of July. Now a group of residents is raising money to make sure it doesn't happen again. Hawaii News Now.

An excess of fuel inside of a boiler is to blame for a stubborn fire that burned early Monday morning at the Pacific Biodiesel facility on Sand Island, according to sources at the scene. Hawaii News Now.

Ewa Beach residents are now officially ready for a natural disaster, said the National Weather Service. After the 2011 tsunami those living in the town felt that they were not fully prepared, so they took things into their own hands. KITV4.

Kahaluu Elementary principal selected as principal of the year. KHON2.

Hawaii

Just a few weeks after Mayor Billy Kenoi warned County Council members he was considering a property tax increase, the council will vote on forming a task force to consider the county’s real property tax rates and rules. West Hawaii Today.

It sometimes rains on the Veterans Day Parade parade in downtown Hilo, but never like this. The popular, annual November parade won’t be held this year due to the construction along Kamehameha Avenue, a key part of the six-year-old parade route, said the parade’s chairman and founder, Dan Kama. Tribune-Herald.

Leaders of the specialty coffee industry are traveling to the state’s largest agricultural district in May to learn about award-winning Ka‘u coffee. Tribune-Herald.

A lease of state land to a Colorado man nearly two decades ago has turned out to be a nightmare for Hawaii’s taxpayers. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County announced its selection of Anaergia Services of Carlsbad, Calif., for the county's Integrated Waste Conversion and Energy Project that will divert roughly 85 percent of waste from the Central Maui Landfill and produce renewable fuels. Maui News.

Honolua's Lipoa Point is one of few areas left in West Maui that has resisted commercial development, and now that state lawmakers have alloted $20 million toward its preservation, it is likely to stay that way. Maui News.

Maui received an "A" grade for air quality - the best in the state - in an American Lung Association national report that may raise the eyebrows of residents who have complaints about cane burning and dust from fallow fields. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa announced the selection of Anaergia Services for the county’s proposed Integrated Waste Conversion and Energy Project. Maui Now.

Kauai

A spate of visitor deaths this year has officials wanting to educate tourists about the dangers. Associated Press.

Residents may be puzzled as to why Census workers are knocking on their doors — three years after the last decennial count, and seven years until the next one. Two basic Census Bureau surveys are the American Community Survey and the Community Population Survey. Participants respond quarterly for two consecutive years to household questions in one and employment or job search information in the other. Garden Island.

Dive tournament targets invasive species. Garden Island.

Hawaii real estate trends for March 2013

Data courtesy Prudential Locations LLC

Hawaii tourism up, solar credits dim, shield law perforated, Maui seeks auditor, HGEA contract votes, no credit for teacher supplies, Hawaii Island smoking ban working after 5 years, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii luau (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The number of visitors coming to Hawaii in the first three months of the year surged 7.1 percent to 2.1 million, but tourism officials said Thursday the industry’s growth will likely slow later in 2013. Associated Press.

A 7.6 percent increase in visitor arrivals and a 7.8 percent rise in visitor spending in March kept Hawaii's tourism industry ahead of last year's record numbers, but travel experts warned the growth rate could slow later this year. Star-Advertiser.

March turned out to be another month of growth for tourism in the state. The Hawaii Tourism Authority says overall visitor arrivals were up 7.6% compared to a year earlier, while visitor spending was up 7.8%. The number of tourists coming from Japan was also up—by a little more than four percent. And a growing trend for those Japanese visitors is a movement beyond Waikiki---searching for a more local experience. Hawaii Public Radio.

Key Hawaii lawmakers are deciding how to divvy up $30 million among several competing initiatives, including collective bargaining agreements and Gov. Neil Abercrombie's early childhood education initiative. KITV4.

Hawaii lawmakers are negotiating the details of proposals to allow the state to partner with private companies to develop some public land. Associated Press.

Consumers may soon be able to obtain low-cost loans to install solar and other alternative energy systems and then repay the loans through the savings on their electrical bills. Star-Advertiser.

A generous state tax credit that helped fuel the growth of solar but led to accusations of abuse would be reconfigured under a compromise pending before state lawmakers today. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Government Employees Association announced late Thursday that it would allow its unit of state professional and scientific workers to vote on a state contract offer even though it has not been endorsed by the union's negotiating team. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Growth Initiative, which would encourage entrepreneurs who might help diversify the state's economy, received a $6 million vote of confidence Thursday. State House and Senate negotiators agreed to provide financing next fiscal year for the Hawaii Strategic Development Corp. to start the initiative. Star-Advertiser.

Citing a lack of funds, lawmakers Thursday killed a proposed tax credit that would have helped teachers offset their out-of-pocket classroom expenses. Star-Advertiser.

Some Good Government Bills Still Alive. Civil Beat.

A panel of Hawaii lawmakers on Thursday approved a new draft of the state shield law that removes protections for free newspapers and magazines and requires that newspapers must be printed in order to be covered. West Hawaii Today.

State lawmakers Thursday agreed to make permanent a law that offers journalists limited protection from having to disclose confidential sources in court, but bloggers and other nontraditional journalists would be excluded. The bill would also expand the exceptions to the law beyond felony cases and civil lawsuits that involve defamation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii journalists are decidedly unhappy with the latest version of the state shield law that protects reporters from having to reveal sources and turn over unpublished material. Now, they just want it to die. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu resident and law firm have filed a federal lawsuit accusing the Hawaii Medical Service Association of using anti-competitive practices to maintain a monopoly that has led to skyrocketing health insurance premiums for more than a decade. Star-Advertiser.

Colleen Hanabusa taking on Brian Schatz for U.S. Senate seems to have a lot of people excited. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A bomb scare halted operations at state Circuit Court, closed roads and shuttered area businesses for nearly five hours Thursday as police investigated a suspicious package that turned out to be harmless. Star-Advertiser.

It was business as usual at the Circuit Court and neighboring buildings by 1 p.m. Thursday, after a bomb scare caused evacuations and shut down Halekauwila between South and Punchbowl for hours during early morning rush hour. Hawaii News Now.

James Campbell High School wasn't built to hold thousands of students. Civil Beat.

More than 144,000 cars a day travel the H1 freeway between Middle Street and Ward Avenue so there really isn't a good time to close it but the state may not have any other choice. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu ranks #6 among American cities for its number of high-rises–472 buildings at least 12 stories tall–ahead of Philadelphia, Boston and Dallas. The thicket is about to get a lot thicker. Honolulu Weekly.

The impacts of sequestration on Hawaii’s most popular visitor attraction are actually benefiting some of its neighboring sites, including the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Pacific Business News.

The state is converting its antiquated departure lobbies at Honolulu International Airport into more modern facilities. Hawaii News Now.

A heavy downpour left Windward Oahu residents stranded Wednesday night. The Waikane Valley Stream spilled over into the road, shutting down Kamehameha Highway. KHON2.

Hawaii

It’s back to the drawing board for the county Salary Commission. After hearing from members of the public Thursday who were mostly opposed to proposed raises, the commission decided to do more work on the plan rather than implementing it in time for the new fiscal year that starts July 1. West Hawaii Today.

A 5-year-old tobacco use ban at Hawaii Island beaches and parks has made a noticeable impact on the quality of the environment at isle recreation areas, according to county officials. Tribune-Herald.

A $50,000 grant is headed to the nonprofit West Hawaii Community Health Center. The grant is aimed at supporting programs that focus on the treatment and management of chronic diseases in our community. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Gabbard Brings Cultural and Community Values to Congress. Maui Weekly.

New Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui plays an important role in Hawai‘i’s post-Inouye political landscape. Maui Weekly.

A Maui Family Court judge who was charged Tuesday with tampering with government records had submitted a letter that day saying she was retiring immediately, State Judiciary spokes­woman Marsha Kita­gawa said. Star-Advertiser.

Mimi DesJardins resigned as a 2nd Circuit Family Court judge Tuesday, the same day a complaint was filed in Wailuku District Court charging her with tampering with a government record, according to the state Judiciary. Maui News.

The application deadline for the newly created county auditor position has been extended to Tuesday, according to an announcement from Maui County Council Member Riki Hokama, chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee's Temporary Investigative Group. Maui News.

State lawmakers are reportedly considering a $20 million appropriation for efforts to acquire Lipoa Point at Honolua on Maui, supporters said. Maui Now.

After years of lobbying from both community residents and lawmakers, it looks like Kihei will finally have a high school complex to call its own. Maui News.

Kauai

If you missed the deadline to apply for a homeowners exemption based on low income, relax. The Kaua‘i County Council unanimously approved a bill Wednesday that extends the deadline. Garden Island.

A small but vocal group, donning umbrellas, rain jackets and signs, rallied Sunday against AT&T’s proposed 80-foot cell phone tower in Kilauea. Garden Island.

Molokai

One of Molokai’s primary air carriers, Island Air, has made changes to their flight schedule that have raised concerns among local customers. The airline has cancelled all flights between Molokai and Maui, and as of May, will decrease flights between Molokai and Honolulu from five to three per day. Molokai Dispatch.