Abercrombie, Ige tied in poll for governor, Hawaii ranked high in shark attacks, Hanohano on the hot seat, Maui group wants GMO regs, no new taxes for Hawaii County, HECO execs get raises, Caldwell to deliver state of the city, more news from all the Hawaian Islands

Abercrombie vs. Ige

A new Civil Beat Poll suggests that state Sen. David Ige has a shot at unseating Hawaii's incumbent governor, Neil Abercrombie. Ige and Abercrombie are tied at 37 percent apiece among likely Democratic primary voters, the poll shows. And more than a quarter of those voters, or 26 percent, say they are unsure of who they'll vote for.

Hawaii tallied the second-highest count of shark attacks of any place on Earth last year, according to the University of Florida's annual International Shark Attack File report released last week. Only Florida had more shark attacks, with 23. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of Hawaii legislators have written Gov. Neil Abercrombie urging him to reappoint their former House colleague to lead the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission. As Civil Beat reported Wednesday, the governor could be disappointed that PUC Commissioner Mina Morita has not helped advance aspects of his energy agenda and that the PUC has been slow in issuing opinions. Morita may have raised the governor's ire due to the PUC's rejection of a Big Island biofuel contract and the commission's ongoing delays in letting an inter-island cable plan go forward.

The top thing to watch for this week in the Hawaii state Legislature is what didn't notably happen last week: a promised meeting among House leadership to discuss possible censure of Rep. Faye Hanohano. Associated Press.

In drafting legislation to regulate the budding unmanned aerial vehicle industry, legislators nearly excluded all uses of the devices, except by law enforcement — the opposite of their intent. Star-Advertiser.

After an informational briefing highlighted the medicinal values and outlined the path and roadblocks to implementation of marijuana dispensaries, Rep. Della Au Belatti calls for "steady, measured and reasonable dialogue" on the subject. Hawaii Independent.

Measure regulating dietary supplements gets little attention. Star-Advertiser.

The League of Women Voters of Hawaii is urging taxpayers to support the state's election campaign fund. The league asked last week that taxpayers indicate on their income tax returns that $3 for individuals, or $6 for joint filers, should go to the fund. Associated Press.

University of Hawaii Board of Regents Vice Chairman James Lee has been passed up by Gov. Neil Abercrombie for another term on the board. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Education has convened a working group to review an experimental sex-education program in public schools that has been criticized by Republican lawmakers. The program entitled Pono Choices was developed by the University of Hawaii for seventh-graders. Big Island Now.

Hawaii’s online health insurance exchange hopes to boost enrollment by targeting younger adults. The Hawaii Health Connector is making an aggressive push this weekend aimed at so-called “invincibles,” those who see insurance as an unnecessary expense. Associated Press.

The president and the executive staff of Hawaiian Electric Co., the state’s largest electric utility, received higher base salaries in 2013, but their total compensation for the year was lower compared to the year before, according an annual report for parent Hawaiian Electric Industries. Pacific Business News.

In her keynote address at Sunday's opening of the 17th biennial Ocean Sciences Meeting, National Geographic explorer Elizabeth Kapuuwailanui Lindsey shared a memory about her late mentor, Pius "Mau" Piai­lug, the esteemed Micronesian navigator whose work to preserve traditional way-finding practices influenced generations of modern Polynesian voyagers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

When Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell delivers his second State of the City address this week, it won't be at Honolulu Hale, or even Kapolei Hale in the  "Second City." For the first time, it will be delivered at McCoy Pavilion at Ala Moana Park. Hawaii News Now.

Thousands of ocean scientists are in Hawaii this week for a conference at the Hawaii Convention center. Their goal is to address major marine issues around the world. Organizers feel hawaii is the perfect place to begin the discussion. KHON2.

Beginning Monday, February 24, a tree care company hired by the city will begin the removal of two mature monkeypod trees growing along Kapiolani Boulevard. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Increases in property values coupled with an improving economy should provide enough revenue to balance the county budget without having to raise property taxes this year, despite across-the-board salary hikes for county employees covered by collective bargaining agreements. West Hawaii Today.

State Rep. Faye Hanohano's recent remarks and actions have roiled the state Capitol, but in her home district of Puna her constituents remain divided about the alleged misconduct. In Pahoa, a once-sleepy town that has mushroomed into a bustling gathering place for people living in the region's many sprawling subdivisions, there are those who still support Hanohano and those who shake their heads at the mention of her name. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii Center at West Hawaii has a new director. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents Thursday night hired Kenneth “Marty” Fletcher to helm the community college, which will become the University of Hawaii at Palamanui. West Hawaii Today.

A former president of Hilo Little League has pleaded guilty in federal court to embezzling tens of thousands of dollars in league funds, plus money from two youth soccer teams, a pageant organization and a car repair and alignment shop. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
Five Maui County residents are looking to gather at least 8,500 signatures for a ballot initiative that would force genetically engineered food growers, such as Monsanto, to "prove that their crops are safe," supporters said. Maui News.

As the state Public Utilities Commission continues to gather public testimony to determine whether a Maui-Oahu undersea power cable would be in the public interest, Upcountry residents were able to ask energy officials and experts questions about the proposal during the Kula Community Association meeting Wednesday night. Maui News.

A total of 1,331 humpback whale sightings were recorded during the Pacific Whale Foundation’s annual Great Whale Count held on Saturday. Maui Now.

A workshop that will include officials from Google, who will help small businesses take advantage of online opportunities, will be held March 19 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Maui News.

Kauai

Four Kauai charter schools will continue to operate thanks to a shot of emergency financial support. The Board of Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs approved $1.5 million in emergency funding to 17 Hawaiian-focused public charter schools for the 2013-2014 school year to address the budgetary shortfalls the schools have faced over the past five years. Garden Island.

Several teachers at Kilauea Elementary School are feeling such pressure to implement a new pilot program called the Educator Effectiveness System, they’ve sent a letter protesting the measure to the Hawaii Board of Education and the Hawaii Department of Education. Garden Island.

Thirty Meter Telescope advances, Independent Party forms in Hawaii, Schatz-Hanabusa in tight race, Future Caucus launched, 2,500 construction jobs coming, VA approves water catchment, Ellison buys $41M of Lanai properties, Maui racial ranter investigated, Honolulu water department cleared of ethics charge, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Artist conception of Thirty Meter Telescope, courtesy image

The University of Hawaii on Thursday approved a plan to lease land at the summit of Mauna Kea for construction of the world’s largest optical telescope. The Board of Regents voted 15 to 1 to approve subleasing the land atop the Big Island volcano for the Thirty Meter Telescope. Associated Press.

Plans to erect the world's largest telescope atop Mauna Kea advanced Thursday with approval of a long-term lease agreement with the University of Hawaii that clears the way for construction to begin as planned in April. The UH Board of Regents voted 13-1 to approve sublease terms for the controversial $1.3 billion Thirty Meter Telescope project, which is expected to create 300 construction jobs and up to 140 permanent jobs. Star-Advertiser.

The battle to put one of the world’s largest telescopes on a sacred Hawaiian mountain continued with a hearing in 3rd Circuit Court in Hilo on Thursday morning. Backers of the Thirty Meter Telescope project sat side by side with supporters of the six petitioners arguing the state erred when granting a Conservation District Use Permit for construction of the telescope. Tribune-Herald.

Amid an ongoing lawsuit and student-led demonstrations, the UH Board of Regents met today and voted for a planned sublease that would allow the Thirty Meter Telescope project to proceed. Hawaii Independent.

After U.S. Sen. Richard Durbin won a second term in 2002, he asked U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye to escort him to the swearing-in ceremony because of his great respect for the Hawaii icon. But Durbin and other top Senate Democrats are supporting U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate over U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, Inouye's preferred successor. Star-Advertiser.

Brian Schatz may have a 2-to-1 advantage over Colleen Hanabusa in campaign fundraising, but both candidates have received significant contributions from well-connected local folks. Schatz, the appointed U.S. senator, and Hanabusa, the U.S. representative who wants his job, also attract plenty of money from mainland donors and political action committees. Civil Beat.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann may soon have a new political party. The Hawaii Independent Party filed enough signatures of registered voters with the state Office of Elections by Thursday's deadline to satisfy the requirement for a new party. Hannemann has said that he would seriously consider running for governor as an independent if the new party is certified. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Independent Party registered this afternoon and by Thursday evening, the Office of Elections confirmed they gathered enough signatures to be a certified political party. Now a familiar face, former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, could soon join the race for Governor. KITV4.

The door at the State Office of Elections closed at 4:30 Thursday afternoon. That was the deadline to have a petition handed in in order to have a political party placed on the ballot for this year’s election. For the newly-formed Hawaii Independent Party it was a close call. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers officially launched the state's Future Caucus on Thursday — the first program of its kind at the state level, modeled after a national caucus co-founded last year by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai’i’s young politicians are reaching across party lines and governmental jurisdictions to work for a common goal, to get things done.   The group hosted a special guest who inspired its formation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Race relations in Hawaii came to the fore this week as a result of two extremely vocal Hawaii residents. One is a young homeless man from Maui. The other is an elected state official from the island of Hawaii. The reaction to them has been fierce and both could face serious repercussions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Mull Clearer Rules for Schools With Uncontrollable Kids. Civil Beat.

Crimes such as pumping pool water into the ocean and dumping trash on roadsides would be prosecuted better if Hawaii establishes an environmental court, advocates and regulators told state lawmakers Wednesday. Associated Press.

Hawaii will add 2,500 construction jobs this year on top of the 2,500 added last year, according to a report issued Thursday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii wants doctors to start measuring kids’ body fat, which will be recorded and sent to the local Obamacare exchange. Health insurance companies would be required to cover the expense. Hawaii Reporter.

During the first four months of enrollment, 3,614 individuals statewide signed up online for insurance plans offered through the Hawaii Health Connector marketplace. Tribune-Herald.

Bills that would provide for mental health care, affordable housing and invasive species research are advancing in the Hawaii Legislature. Associated Press.

On Tap at the Hawaii Legislature: Feb. 21. A selective list of bills, resolutions, hearings, briefings and events for Friday at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

State roundup for February 21. Associated Press.

Oahu
A city Ethics Commission report concludes that an investigation found no ethics laws were violated in the awarding of three Honolulu Board of Water Supply contracts, but calls on the city auditor to look into serious problems uncovered at the agency. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department says a 5.5 percent increase for the police chief and his deputies is needed to keep up with salaries of officers, whose salaries have climbed after successful union negotiations. The request for an increase was taken to the city Salary Commission this month by Assistant Police Chief Mark Nakagawa. Star-Advertiser.

Inflation in Honolulu remained muted during the second half of last year, helping underpin a steady recovery in the local economy, government officials said Thursday. Prices for a range of consumer goods and services rose 1.7 percent from July through December when compared with the same period a year earlier, according to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics. Star-Advertiser.

Navy Seabees have been called in to combat a growing number of invasive coconut rhinoceros beetles discovered on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, the Navy said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

There’s good news trickling down from Washington, D.C., for Hawaii Island’s 17,000 veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will once again guarantee loans for homes on water catchment systems. West Hawaii Today.

Within perhaps six months, County Prosecutor Mitch Roth plans on having a courthouse canine in his Hilo office, courtesy of two organizations — Courthouse Dogs Foundation and Assistance Dogs of Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

A 0.6-mile stretch of Queen Kaahumanu Highway in Kailua-Kona has bicyclists wondering how long it will be until a life is lost. Though the highway has a designated bicycle lane between Makala Boulevard and Palani Road, bicyclists say they would rather go out of their way to loop through the Kailua-Kona town area than continue straight on the highway. West Hawaii Today.

A new Cost of Government Commission was seated Thursday, optimistic about finding ways to save taxpayers money. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The 21-year-old man who went on a racist rant that was caught on cell phone video could be banned from all Maui county parks for a year. Maui Police are also moving forward with Terroristic Threatening and Harassment charges, both misdemeanors.  The case is currently at the prosecutors office being reviewed. Hawaii News Now.

The Maui Police Department needs to fill more than two dozen civilian positions, mostly for radio dispatchers. It's the largest vacancy the department has seen in about six years, police officials said. Associated Press.

University of Hawaii Maui College Chancellor Clyde Sakamoto, the longtime name and face of Maui's primary post-secondary institution, will retire by the end of October, University of Hawaii officials confirmed Wednesday. Maui News.

Young Brothers shipping between Honolulu Harbor and Kahului Harbor, the largest Neighbor Island port in terms of cargo volume, rose 1 percent in 2013, and the smallest, Kaumalapau Harbor on Lanai, saw shipments grow 21 percent. Maui News.

Kauai

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife is inviting Kauai residents to submit applications for positions on a community council to advise the DOFAW Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program. Garden Island.

For almost 13 years, YWCA of Kauai employees have worked to expand their reach and create a place where they could serve more families in the community. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the billionaire CEO of Oracle Corp. and the majority owner of the Hawaiian island of Lanai, has been busy with real estate shopping since he purchased the Pineapple Island in mid-2012. Ellison has purchased 21 resort residential properties near the Four Seasons Resorts Lanai at Manele Bay for a little more than $41 million. Pacific Business News.

Raising the minimum wage, building prisons, lobbyist influence, UH president sought, Ethics Commission examines lawmakers' expense accounts, VA to allow water catchment loans, embattled Kauai police commissioner resigns, Maui college chancellor retires, Mufi may run, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii bartender (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

State House and Senate leaders have reached an understanding on raising the minimum wage to $10 an hour by January 2018 and expanding a tip credit to 75 cents, but an influential state senator wants a debate over the tip credit before signing off on the agreement. Star-Advertiser.

Public Safety Director Ted Sakai told lawmakers Wednesday that officials are evaluating 13 design-build proposals and alternative funding ideas submitted by private firms and partnerships hoping to help the state build new jails and more prison space. Sakai didn't offer up much detail on any of the proposals to a joint meeting of the state Senate and House Public Safety committees. Star-Advertiser.

Hannemann

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said Wednesday that he would seriously consider running for governor as an independent if his allies collect enough signatures to get certified as a new Hawaii Independent Party. Organizers have until Thursday afternoon to collect the necessary 706 signatures from registered voters for a petition to the state Office of Elections. Star-Advertiser.

Lobbyists Test Another Path to Influence. Civil Beat.

Should state lawmakers spend taxpayer dollars to keep their aloha shirts clean and their suits pressed? What about legislators using public money to send flowers to the family of a friend who died? Or buying a birthday cake for a staff member? The state Ethics Commission began Wednesday to examine the way Hawaii’s 51 House reps and 26 senators spend their legislative allowances each year. The commission did so after receiving complaints from a couple of lawmakers. Civil Beat.

The state legislature wants the state administration to track body fat on children ages 2 to 18 years old. Senate Bill 2351 requires primary care physicians and pediatricians to provide an annual body mass index measurement to patients from age two to eighteen years and then tally that up and report the age and body mass index statistics to the Hawaii health information exchange. Hawaii Reporter.

State House leaders hope to meet privately with state Rep. Faye Hanohano to discuss how the chamber should respond to several complaints about her conduct. Among the options, according to House sources, would be for Hanohano to apologize; for House leaders to remove her as chairwoman of the House Ocean, Marine Resources and Hawaiian Affairs Committee; or for the House to censure her. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Faye Hanohano is in hot water again over allegations of racially discriminatory behavior. Tribune-Herald.

The US Department of Veterans Affairs today announced it will resume its policy of allowing homes with water catchment systems for use as collateral for VA loans. Big Island Now.

What you need to know about the state regulatory entity responsible for addressing ethical issues involving legislators, registered lobbyists, and state employees. Hawaii Independent.

The University of Hawaii is advertising for a new president. The university said Wednesday print and online advertisements will appear in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, Midweek and Pacific Business News in Hawaii. Nationally, the ads will appear in the Chronicle of Higher Education. Star-Advertiser.

State Senate leaders were upset after Hawaii News Now revealed that the state's new safety check program has a big problem: common household cleaners such as rubbing alcohol and nail polish wipe away the printing from new safety check decals.

Hawaii has the lowest number of Obamacare enrollments in the nation, through its Hawaii Health Connector, leading lawmakers on the House Consumer Protection Committee to consider a $15 million a year state funded replacement. Hawaii Independent.

The number of new motor vehicle registrations in Hawaii rose nearly 15 percent in 2013, according to a report from the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association, which attributed the increase to low interest rates and strong affordability. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for February 20. Associated Press.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s proposal to raise or begin charging fees for more than 40 permits and services tied to land use hit a snag at what was expected to be a final vote at a City Council meeting on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's plan to begin charging Oahu property owners $10 a month for trash pickup cleared its first hurdle Wednesday but appears to have a long way to go before it becomes law. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha could see another salary bump in the coming fiscal year. So too could his deputy and assistant chiefs.Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police have a new weapon in their crime fighting arsenal – and it pairs a camera with a computer. Police say the Automated License Plate Technology will help them in their fight against crime, but there are people who are concerned about their right to privacy. KHON2.

A bill moving through the state Legislature would require all Hawaii government agencies located near a planned rail station form a consortium to study how Honolulu’s rail transit project will affect the local workforce and housing. Pacific Business News.

For many Hawaii residents, the rural town of Wahiawa in central Oahu is just a place you drive through when traveling to the beaches on the North Shore or commuting to urban Honolulu. But Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz is hoping to change all that. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Home rule was back before the Hawaii County Council Wednesday morning at the West Hawaii Civic Center. West Hawaii Today.

Native Hawaiian practitioner Kalani Flores recognizes Mauna Kea for more than its scenic views and pristine hiking opportunities. With a hearing scheduled for 8 a.m. today in Hilo’s Third Circuit Court, Ching and Flores visited the mountain to pay their respects. Tribune-Herald.

The State Department of Health has introduced new, more stringent regulations for food safety in commercial establishments.  Under the old rules, low income and homeless feeding programs were exempted from some of the provisions.  But that's changing, and it will have a direct impact on Hawaii Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

University of Hawaii Maui College Chancellor Clyde Sakamoto will retire this fall, after leading the Maui campus for more than two decades. Sakamoto, who is credited with pioneering distance learning opportunities across Maui County's three islands, will retire at the end of October, UH announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Beginning March 1, Maui Memorial Medical Center will be transitioning from a paper-based records system to an electronic medical records system that officials say will improve patient care and safety and could even earn the hospital about $4 million in federal funds. Maui News.

It's a racial rant that has been seen by more than a quarter of a million people.  A 21-year old man, with a criminal past, was caught on cell phone video unleashing racial statements against a Kihei couple and their friends at Kalama Beach Park. Hawaii News Now.

An adult humpback whale was freed of hundreds of feet of small gauge line during a successful disentanglement effort conducted this morning in waters off of West Maui, marine officials said. Maui Now.

Kauai

A Lihue man under federal investigation regarding gambling allegations has resigned his post as a Kauai Police Commissioner. Bradley Chiba is allegedly under investigation for illegal gambling. He was serving his fourth year as a commissioner. Garden Island.

Stella Burgess, a longtime South Shore resident, community leader and director of Hawaiian culture for the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, died late Tuesday night at her Koloa home with family and friends surrounding her. She was 61. Garden Island.

Wilson nominated to Hawaii Supreme Court, big wins for Honolulu rail, PUC's Morita in trouble, Department of Education focuses on Hawaiian immersion, more accuse Rep. Hanohano of racism, lawmakers mull drones, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Supreme Court justice nominee Michael Wilson poses with Gov. Neil Abercrombie

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday announced the nomination of Circuit Judge Michael Wilson to fill an upcoming vacancy on the state Supreme Court. Wilson would replace Associate Justice Simeon Acoba, who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 70 in March. Wilson's nomination for a 10-year term on the court is subject to confirmation by the state Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today appointed a man of many hats to the state Supreme Court. Michael Wilson, a judge with Oahu’s First Circuit Court since 2000, will replace Associate Justice Simeon Acoba, who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 70 next month. Big Island Now.

The Board of Education adopted sweeping changes on Tuesday to two policies governing Hawaiian education and immersion schools, a move that garnered the support of hundreds of advocates who hope the revisions will address many of the issues that have plagued the programs for decades. Civil Beat.

In what Hawaiian language advocates called a bold and monumental step, the Board of Education on Tuesday made substantial policy changes to its Hawaiian language immersion program, including a mandate to create an Office of Hawaiian Education under the schools superintendent. Star-Advertiser.

Hanohano

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources on Tuesday complained about the behavior of state Rep. Faye Hano­hano, portraying the representative as "abusive in authority, racially discriminatory and inappropriate" to the department's staff. House leaders have said they intend to assign a special committee to look into Hano­hano's conduct after receiving several complaints. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers are considering a bill that would make it illegal for police to monitor people with unmanned aircraft without due process. Police, hobbyists, filmmakers and regulators told lawmakers Tuesday that the state should protect people's privacy. But they urged lawmakers not to curtail the many uses for unmanned aircraft beyond police surveillance, including commercial photography, search and rescue operations, resource management and recreational use. Associated Press.

Opponents fighting a proposed state ban on unmanned aerial vehicles packed a capitol hearing room today. Hawaii Public Radio.

A measure now before Hawaii lawmakers would restrict the use of these unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, to law enforcement, and only if the search warrant calls for the technology. KHON2.

Hawaii has the lowest number in the nation of enrollments through its Obamacare exchange, Hawaii Health Connector, according to a Feb. 12 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report. Hawaii Reporter.

Morita

 

Hermina Morita, who was tapped by Gov. Neil Abercrombie three years ago to lead the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, won’t be nominated for a second term, according to the senator who chairs the committee that oversees the commission. Sen. Roz Baker, who heads the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee, told Civil Beat Tuesday that she asked to meet with the governor after hearing reports that Morita wouldn't be reappointed, but he refused. Star-Advertiser.

House Bill 1499, which has a hearing today, proposes a constitutional amendment to ask whether freedom of speech should include spending money to influence elections. Civil Beat.

Equality Hawaii, channeling resources from several gay rights and civil liberties organizations, directed more than $509,900 worth of lobbying to help pass a gay marriage law in a special session of the state Legislature last fall. State lobbying disclosure reports filed with the state Ethics Commission show that Equality Hawaii spent more than $101,600 of the money on media advertising. Star-Advertiser.

Thanks to a new law in Hawaii, the public can examine the financial interests of state lawmakers before elected officials take action on legislation that might personally benefit them. In the past, the public generally had to wait until the legislative session was over to view lawmakers' financial disclosure statements. That made it hard to spot potential conflicts of interest and raise objections when it matters most. But last year the Legislature finally passed a bill that moved the filing deadline up four months, from May 31 to Jan. 31, barely two weeks after the 2014 session opened. The session will wrap up May 1. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now has discovered a potential problem with the state's new vehicle safety sticker program.  A Kalihi mechanic worried that if he can easily wipe numbers off the sticker decals, crooks can as well.

Scientists in Hawaii are seeking the public’s help in documenting locations where the state butterfly can be found, saying they don’t believe the insect’s population is doing as well as it should be. Associated Press.

State roundup for February 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

Two federal court rulings Tuesday all but assured Honolulu’s $5.2 billion rail project will be built between East Kapolei and Ala Moana Center. Not only did judges in the U.S. District Court of Hawaii and 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals find that the project complied with federal law, but the plaintiffs in the cases, who have been fighting against rail for decades, have said they don’t plan to appeal the decisions. Civil Beat.

With two new decisive court wins, Oahu's rail transit project is poised to take shape along the island's southern coast without more roadblocks from its staunchest opponents. A federal appeals court panel unanimously ruled Tuesday that the 20-mile, 21-station elevated rail line complies with environmental law. On a lower court level in the same case, visiting Judge A. Wallace Tashima ruled Tuesday that transit officials followed proper procedures in choosing a rail route to Ala Moana Center instead of a route to the University of Hawaii's Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s $5.16 billion rail transit project received a green light Tuesday in separate rulings from the 9th U.S. Court of Appeals and the U.S. District Court. Pacific Business News.

If there’s one thing that the Hawaii Community Development Authority can’t be faulted for, it’s a lack of transparency. Hawaii Independent.

A decades-long debate over the best way make more homes available to the neediest families continues at the Hono­lulu City Council on Wednesday. Three resolutions aimed at creating more affordable housing units for those most in need are on the Council's agenda. Star-Advertiser.

City Councilman Ron Menor wants to make it easier for those at the lowest income levels to benefit from rules that require developers to set aside affordable housing units. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A compromise by the developer of the luxury Kohala Kai subdivision was enough to get a thumbs-up Tuesday from the County Council Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

A proposed North Kona development hit a new roadblock Tuesday afternoon, when the county’s Planning Director announced he couldn’t find any authority to expand an urban area into an agricultural area. West Hawaii Today.

Coffee growers are hoping for a venti-sized check from lawmakers this year as the coffee berry borer spreads to all corners of the Big Island. On Thursday, the state’s House Finance Committee will consider a bill to provide $3 million to help farmers fight the beetle, triple the amount allocated or approved last year. Tribune-Herald.

Driving down Queen Kaahumanu Highway at 45 mph, residents and visitors may not realize how much water flows beneath the barren-looking lava fields, Fred Cachola told County Council members Tuesday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A series of community meetings to discuss proposed permitting and scheduling improvements at Park facilities in Maui County is scheduled to take place in February and March. Maui Now.

Maui County high school students are invited to take part in the inaugural Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Academic Competition, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard announced. Maui News.

Kauai
A member of the Kauai Police Commission is a target of a federal investigation into illegal gambling. FBI agents searched 37-year-old Bradley Chiba's home in Lihue on Super Bowl Sunday on the suspicion he was booking illegal bets on football games. Hawaii News Now.

The smell of rotten eggs, county officials admit, has been a longstanding and uncomfortable problem that has plagued businesses and residents in the Wailua Houselots area for several decades. Garden Island.

Molokai

Island Air, which has been focusing its resources on Lanai, said Tuesday it will discontinue service to Molokai. The last flights will be on April 1. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air, the Hawaii interisland airline owned by Oracle Corp. CEO Larry Ellison, will discontinue service to Molokai effective April 2, the airline said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The Molokai Planning Commission, a board of volunteer residents tasked with reviewing land use ordinances and amendments, is seeking to revise and update its 25-year-old administrative rules. Maui News.

Niihau
It appears the island of Niihau will remain part of the County of Kauai, at least until the end of the decade. Instead of moving forward with establishing a new, independent county, a trio of committees in the Senate voted Tuesday to create a five-member working group to study the proposal. Garden Island.

Hawaii voters want GMO labeling, Kauai continues GMO fight in court, police discipline records destroyed, homeless increasing, voters unsure about Kakaako development, fishing, surfing, kayaking could be forbidden on 'Forbidden Isle,' more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

GMO sign in Hilo grocery (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Three-quarters of voters interviewed in a new Hawaii Poll want the state Legislature to pass a law requiring that all food from genetically modified organisms sold in Hawaii carry labels. The poll found that only a quarter of voters consider themselves very familiar with GMOs. Yet those with the most knowledge about GMOs tend to be the most concerned about the issue. Star-Advertiser.

SB 2591 — introduced by Sen. Will Espero — aims to make more information available about police disciplinary actions as well as require county police agencies to maintain fired officers’ disciplinary files for six months after the annual legislative summaries are filed. Civil Beat.

A majority of Hawaii residents think the homeless problem has grown worse over the last year and even threatens the state's economy by discouraging visitors from returning. In addition, most folks who responded to the Hawaii Poll say the homeless are reducing the quality of their own lives by their increasing presence on or near beaches, parks, sidewalks and other places where they hang out. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s technology office is in the process of rolling out a half-million dollar system that allows the governor’s office to better manage thousands of communications from constituents and track bills that are moving through the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hunting for sport and subsistence is popular on the neighbor islands and rural Oahu where wild game is more plentiful and accessible. A number of lawmakers are supporting a measure this session to preserve land set aside for Hawai’i’s hunters. Hawaii Public Radio.

New solution to help combat graffiti. HB 2391: “Requires all persons offering aerosol spray paint containers for sale to restrict public access to the containers so that access to them cannot be gained without employee assistance." KHON2.

The io population is secure so this revered Hawaiian hawk can be removed from the federal list of threatened and endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said in a proposal that’s ruffling feathers with some residents. West Hawaii Today.

The Kamehameha butterfly was once found on all the main Hawaiian Islands. But researchers say the insect, which is found only in the state of Hawaii, is now on the decline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Three Hawaii high schools are preparing for national competitions. The state Department of Education says Maui, Mililani and Waipahu high schools will head to the mainland for national competitions in April. Associated Press.

Oahu

Complaints about condominium tower development being too rampant in Kakaako have gushed this year at the Legislature and at meetings of a state agency governing such development. Yet a new poll suggests that this view is held by only about half of Oahu residents. Star-Advertiser.

Voters asked about development in Kakaako echo the stand protesters took at the State Capitol two weeks ago against the rise in condo projects. 54 percent say, "there's been too much development, too quickly." However, 43 percent believe it's better there than other areas of Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments in Honolulu this week. A three-judge panel of the court plans to hear three appeals of decisions by immigration authorities and by the U.S. District Court for Hawaii. Associated Press.

Legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan is heading back to the islands for his first performance here in 16 years. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Ethics reform just may be the last 2008 campaign promise still on Mayor Billy Kenoi’s plate. He’s hoping the Hawaii County Council Finance Committee finally bites when it meets at 4 p.m. today to consider a bill that’s been twice spurned by the county Board of Ethics and killed by a previous County Council. West Hawaii Today.

A recently signed memorandum of understanding between Hawaii Electric Light Co., Hawaii County and the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority lays out one of the biggest difficulties in adding more renewable energy to a grid: energy storage. West Hawaii Today.

Unexpectedly high water in the Humuula saddle region, between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, has prompted a University of Hawaii researcher to seek a new site for additional tests. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Federal Credit Union and Kula Community Federal Credit Union have received final approval from the National Credit Union Administration to merge, with an effective back date of Jan. 2. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

A release of the Office of the County Attorney’s confidential legal opinion on the final draft of Bill 2491, regulating GMO and pesticides, is one of the reasons why an outside firm is being sought to defend it in federal court, County of Kauai officials said. That Oct. 24 opinion, penned by Deputy County Attorney Mauna Kea Trask and stamped “DO NOT DISCLOSE” in large, red letters, was released publicly a week later by Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. along with an announcement of his bill veto. Garden Island.

The Attorney General’s Office said it won’t get involved in a statute dispute centered around whether the mayor should have to vacate office. Garden Island.

Molokai

Urban development in Hawaii has left native butterflies with dwindling habitat, but on Molokai, butterflies will soon enjoy a buffet in downtown Kaunakakai. A specially-designed garden in front of the Molokai Public Library, created last week through volunteer community efforts, offers butterfly flower favorites, beauty for passersby and an agriculture education for keiki. Molokai Dispatch.

Niihau
Fishing restrictions around Niihau would be set by a single individual on the island under a bill approved last week by a Senate committee. Senate Bill 180, passed 5-0 with amendments Friday by the Committee on Water and Land, would establish a private fishery around the island under the auspices of a so-called kono­hiki, a term referring to the "village elder" or head of an ahupuaa land division. Star-Advertiser.

A handful of lawmakers in the state Legislature are not only seeking to prohibit fishing within two miles of the “Forbidden Island” of Niihau but also keep out tour boats, kayaks and even surfers. Garden Island.

Hawaii Polls: Abercrombie struggling, Aiona gaining, Hanabusa leading, Kim on top, Hanohano investigated, plus more government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Neil Abercrombie campaigning file photo (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Voters are deeply ambivalent about Gov. Neil Abercrombie, a new Hawaii Poll shows, an opening that breathes unexpected life into his political challengers. Despite the state's economic turnaround and record budget surplus, Abercrombie's job approval rating stands at 43 percent, and just 45 percent of voters interviewed had a favorable opinion of him. Abercrombie holds a single-digit lead over state Sen. David Ige in the Democratic primary for governor, a surprise given that Ige has raised little money and many voters have never heard of or do not know enough about the state senator. Star-Advertiser.

Ige

Reflecting lingering bad feelings about a protracted standoff in labor negotiations, now settled, the Hawaii State Teachers Association today announced its support for state Sen. David Ige in the Democratic primary for governor. That’s a blow to Gov. Neil Abercrombie, the incumbent seeking re-election. The governor angered the 13,500-member union by imposing cuts to salaries and health benefits after the administration could not reach agreement with the union. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has announced that it is endorsing state Sen. David Ige in the race for governor. Ige, a Democrat, is challenging Gov. Neil Abercrombie in the primary election. Hawaii News Now previously reported that former governors Ben Cayetano and George Ariyoshi are also throwing their support behind the Pearl City-Aiea senator. Hawaii News Now.

Aiona

Hundreds of registered voters were asked if the election were held for Governor today, who would you vote for in the Democratic primary? 47% said incumbent Neil Abercrombie while 38% chose State Senator David Ige. 14% were undecided with a 4% margin of error. 45% polled have an unfavorable opinion of Neil Abercrombie. 45% have a favorable view. In this race Duke Aiona has the highest approval rating at 58%. David Ige polled 30% favorable, but 38% have never heard of him. Hawaii News Now.

Hanabusa

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has a gap over U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, a new Hawaii Poll has found, and a quarter of voters interviewed did not know enough about Schatz to form an opinion about the senator. Hanabusa was at 48 percent and Schatz was at 40 percent in the poll of Democratic primary voters. Eleven percent were undecided. Star-Advertiser.

Schatz

In advance of a Honolulu Star-Advertiser poll today that shows Rep. Colleen Hababusa leading Sen. Brian Schatz 48-40 percent in the Democratic primary, Schatz told supporters yesterday that his campaign’s internal poll has him up 41-37 percent. Civil Beat.

Kim

State Senate President Donna Mercado Kim would win the Democratic primary for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District House of Representatives seat handily if the election were held this month, according to the latest results of the Hawaii Poll. Kim, who's spent more years in elective office than five other candidates in the poll, scored 10 percentage points better than the second top finisher, state Rep. Mark Takai. Star-Advertiser.

Bhagowalia

In hopes of advancing the state's overhaul of its aging information technology infrastructure, the current director of the Office of Information Management Technology will serve as the governor's chief adviser for technology and cybersecurity effective Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hanohano

State House leaders plan to appoint a special committee to investigate Rep. Faye Hanohano after a college student complained she treated him rudely while testifying before a committee she chairs. Associated Press.

Rosen

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Friday named Dr. Linda Rosen director of the state Department of Health. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Legislature is considering a number of bills to provide tax relief for residents on the verge of becoming homeless.  One sweeping measure is proposing a number of tax breaks for those in need. Hawaii Public Radio.

A bill requiring radiation warnings on cellphones passed two committees in the state Senate. Introduced by Sen. Josh Green, D-Kona, Ka‘u, SB 2571 would require cellphones sold in Hawaii to contain a label covering nearly a third of the back of the device. Tribune-Herald.

Weeks of slow, soaking rains are helping the grass grow again on the western slopes of Maui and Hawaii islands, giving cattle ranchers hope they may at last escape a punishing drought brought on by years of below-normal rainfall. But ranchers warn the soil will dry out if rain doesn’t continue to fall for the rest of Hawaii’s wet season, which lasts through April. Associated Press.

Committee hearings are slowing at the Hawaii state Legislature, so in the coming four-day week, the usual monsoon of public debate will taper to a fine mist. Associated Press.

Oahu

Caldwell

Seventy-two percent of Oahu voters feel Mayor Kirk Caldwell did a good job in his first year in office, according to a recent Hawaii Poll. While that may seem high for a politician, that's been the case for the past three mayors, said Rebecca Ward, president of Ward Research Inc., which did the poll for the Hono­lulu Star-Advertiser and Hawaii News Now.

Dozens gathered in the drizzling rain at Malaekahana State Park to stage a peaceful protest against what is commonly called Bill 47 (2013) in the Honolulu City Council. It would involve changes in zoning and planning for the North Shore community. KHON2.

Honolulu police are testing a high-speed camera that captures thousands of license plates — and searches a database for information about vehicles and who might be behind the wheel. Star-Advertiser.

Media Council Hawaii and attorneys with the Institute for Public Representation have filed a petition with the Federal Communications Commission to halt the transfer of the broadcast license of KFVE from HITV to American Spirit Media.  MCH previously challenged, unsuccessfully, agreements between Raycom Media and HITV that gave Raycom ownership and control of KHNL, KGMB and KFVE in the Honolulu market. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Landers

The Pahoa woman believed to be the Big Island’s oldest resident has died. Saramae Williams Landers, who died Monday at home, witnessed breathtaking technological advances and historic social changes in her 107 years. Tribune-Herald.

With Hawaii County expecting a $20 million payment next month, the County Council’s Finance Committee will consider a bill Tuesday to accept the money, which will be used to build the second half of the Mamalahoa bypass. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County experienced positive economic growth last year. The unemployment rate decreased 2.2 percent during the third quarter of 2013, from 8.4 percent to 6.2 percent, according to a Hawaii Department of Business and Economic Development report. Tribune-Herald.

A mainland-based medical nonprofit, working with Hawaii-based senior living developers, wants to build a combination assisted living and skilled nursing facility in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A subsidiary of Colorado-based land investment, development and conservation firm Bio-Logical Capital has purchased about 3,600 acres of Hana Ranch’s land in East Maui for $4.75 million, Pacific Business News confirmed.

The county Department of Parks and Recreation will host a series of community meetings to discuss proposed permitting and scheduling improvements for the use of county facilities, an announcement said Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

About a dozen rain-soaked people took to the street late Friday afternoon in downtown Kapaa to protest proposed legislation that would discourage home births using a midwife. Garden Island.

A fourth biotech seed company has joined a lawsuit aimed at blocking the County of Kauai’s implementation of Ordinance 960 related to pesticides and genetically modified crops. BASF is now on board with the complaint, filed Jan. 10 in U.S. District Court in Honolulu by Syngenta, DuPont Pioneer and Agrigenetics, a company affiliated with Dow AgroSciences. Civil Beat.

The Department of Public Works will hold a public information meeting to discuss the draft environmental assessment for the Waipouli connection of Ke Ala Hele Makalae, the multi-use path. The meeting will be begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Kapaa Middle School cafeteria. Garden Island.

Molokai

Two years after Molokai's Kanemitsu Bakery was originally fined $90,000 and subsequently ordered to suspend operations due to "numerous health code violations," the iconic bakery has reached a settlement with the state Department of Health to pay $20,000 in fines. Maui News.

Attacks on the Sunshine Law, marijuana legalization dies, hospital privatization nears, homeless bill of rights, rail car mockup unveiled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii black sand beach (c) 2014 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Senate panels were of two minds on Thursday, killing a bill to legalize marijuana — "We felt Hawaii was not ready for legalization at this time," said Sen. Will Espero — pushing forward legislation that calls for a fine of just $100 for possession of an ounce of pakalolo. Arguments for and against decriminalization and legalization were on display Thursday, as supporters and opponents of reforming Hawaii's marijuana laws filled Conference Room 224 at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

A bill to legalize recreational marijuana in Hawaii died in committee Thursday. But state lawmakers advanced a measure that could decriminalize possession of up to an ounce of the drug. Associated Press.

A proposal rejected by the Hawaii County Council as unnecessarily weakening the Sunshine Law has made its way to the state Legislature, where it’s getting serious consideration. The bills, HB 2139 and SB 2962, were sponsored by state lawmakers from Maui after the Hawaii County Council struck the measure from a package the counties were sending jointly to the state Legislature under the Hawaii State Association of Counties umbrella. West Hawaii Today.

While opposed by open-government advocates, a Senate bill advanced in the state Legislature this week - with amendments - to allow county council members to jointly attend any meetings or presentations without violating the state's Sunshine Law, as long as the gathering is open to the public. Maui News.

Hawaii Health Systems Corp. is hoping this will be the year for legislation paving the way for privatization. The Senate Health Committee this week passed Senate Bill 3064, which allows for the HHSC facilities to partner with or be purchased by a local nonprofit provider such as Hawaii Pacific Health, The Queen's Health Systems or Kaiser Permanente Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering creating a homeless bill of rights that supporters say would guard against laws that allow authorities to roust or intimidate people forced to live on the streets. Associated Press.

Under Senate Proposal, Parents Could be Prosecuted for Unreported Missing Children. Hawaii Reporter.

Journalists Need Protection, from Hawaii to DC. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's insurance commissioner says small businesses and individuals have the "best of both worlds" this year when it comes to health insurance. Maui News.

A public advisory was issued today, reminding ocean and beach goers to keep the recommended distance of 150-feet when observing dolphins in the wild. Maui Now.

State roundup for February 14. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Oahu rail transit system's maintenance-storage facility will undergo a redesign to upgrade the track operations there -- a $4.25 million decision by project officials that scraps many of the original blueprints for how that facility was to work. Board members overseeing the rail project approved the change order Thursday to the 43-acre facility, which is in the early stages of being built near Leeward Community College. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu unveiled a life-like model Thursday of what a rail transit car will look like, sort of. The mock up, on display through the end of April at Kapolei Hale, is 14 feet high and 10 feet wide. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu residents can now see in person a life-size mock-up of the 80 rail cars being designed for the island's planned transit system. Rail officials joined Honolulu City Council members to unveil the model Thursday at Kapolei Hale, where it will remain on display during regular business hours through April. Star-Advertiser.

The Navy may soon have to install a sophisticated leak detection system at its massive Red Hill Underground Fuel Storage Facility where thousands of gallons of fuel leaked last month. The state Department of Health urged the Navy to put in a better leak detection system as far back as 2008, but the Navy has resisted despite evidence that fuel has been contaminating the groundwater and the pollution may be moving toward a nearby Navy well that supplies drinking water to about 65,000 people at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Civil Beat.

State May Step Up Funding for Ag Inspections at Oahu Farms after Pesticide Abuses Reported. Hawaii Reporter.

The international megachurch that oversees New Hope has agreed to fork over $775,000 to settle a lawsuit claiming it shortchanged the state when it rented public school facilities on Oahu. But as of now it’s unclear exactly where the money will go. Civil Beat.

A project that could save Oahu millions of dollars in energy costs faces criticism from a North Shore community. KITV4.

The state is concerned about the spread of measles after an Oahu infant contracted the highly contagious disease in the Philippines and was infectious while traveling back to Honolulu and during visits to receive medical treatment. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Senate’s Ways and Means Committee approved a measure Thursday to fund two new ambulances on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Marine Corps wants to construct and operate an urban close air support range and an aviation bull’s-eye range at Pohakuloa Training Area. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy now stands at the edge of a cliff, according to Dean John Pezzuto. And this session, the state Legislature has the power to either push the program into the chasm below, or pull it back from the precipice, he added. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. is teaming up with county and state agencies to create a facility to test energy storage technologies at the Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology Park in Kailua-Kona. Star-Advertiser.

Maui
The Maui Planning Commission deferred action Tuesday on an anticipated final decision to reject appeals challenging permits for the Rock & Brews restaurant in Paia. Maui News.

Kauai

TSA looking into harassment allegations. Garden Island.

Molokai

Tickets for Hawaii’s newest interisland operation, ‘Ohana by Hawaiian,  are now available for its long-awaited turboprop service from Honolulu International Airport to Molokai Airport and Lanai Airport by booking online at HawaiianAirlines.com. Molokai Dispatch.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, who bought 98 percent of the Pineapple Isle from fellow billionaire David Murdock in 2012, has apparently yet to initiate any major philanthropic efforts for Lanai since Pacific Business News first explored this question in 2012.