One of only six GOP legislators ousted as House minority leader after criticizing Trump, may switch parties; first two marijuana dispensaries get OK to grow; Legislature mulls police cameras, gun silencers; Maui man charged with threats to mayor; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Opening day Olelo interview of Rep. Beth Fukumoto, Facebook photo

The six lone Republicans in the state Legislature ousted their leader today in a House Resolution vote. Hawaii Public Radio.

Republicans in the Hawaii House of Representatives on Wednesday ousted minority leader Rep. Beth Fukumoto over her criticism of President Donald Trump, including calling him a bully at last month’s Women’s March in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Beth Fukumoto, the top Republican officeholder in Hawaii, may jump parties. Civil Beat.

A Republican State Representative in Hawaii is considering leaving the GOP and joining the Democrats due her party’s staunch support of President Donald Trump. Big Island Video News.

A Republican lawmaker in deep-blue Hawaii is considering switching parties to become a Democrat after she was pressured to give up her leadership role for criticizing President Donald Trump. Associated Press.

Hawaii's Republican Party on Wednesday elected State Rep. Andria Tupola as House Minority Leader, hours after passing a resolution that ousted Rep. Beth Fukumoto from the leadership role. Hawaii News Now.

Rep Beth Fukumoto: Beat up by her party, may defect. KITV.

A Hawaii lawmaker says she’s been bullied and attacked by her own party. Now Rep. Beth Fukumoto says she’s thinking of leaving the Republicans and joining the Democratic Party. KHON2.

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While the state Legislature focuses on an estimated $650 million jail for Oahu, community correctional facilities on the Neighbor Islands are far more crowded. West Hawaii Today.

Aloha Green Holdings Inc. on Oahu and Maui Grown Therapies, led by former Maui Land & Pineapple Co. Inc. CEO David Cole, received approval Wednesday from the state Health Department to start growing medical marijuana. Star-Advertiser.

Two medical marijuana dispensaries are the first to receive approvals to acquire and grow marijuana for medical products in Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.

A number of measures have been introduced in both houses of the state Legislature that would dictate the purchase and use of dashboard and body-worn cameras for police officers in departments statewide. Tribune-Herald.

A bill aiming to legalize the use of silencers on firearms is gaining support from local hunters. Garden Island.

Mental health patient’s family hopes bill will prevent tragedy. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental Council Wants Hawaii To Redefine Success. The council is proposing the use of a “genuine progress indicator” to evaluate the state in a way that goes beyond dollars and cents. Civil Beat.

Petition Calls for Tulsi Gabbard’s Removal From Key US House Posts. Organizers and signers are “infuriated and deeply troubled” by the Hawaii congresswoman’s recent trip to Syria, where she met with Bashar Assad. Civil Beat.

Commentary: Public Interest Measures Surface At Legislature. On balance and when push comes to shove, money talks, and ethics walks. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The Honolulu Police Department will ask the City Council to approve a $250,000 payment to outgoing Police Chief Louis Kealoha as well as reimbursement of those funds, HPD brass told the Police Commission on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department doesn’t have enough money to pay outgoing Chief Louis Kealoha the $250,000 he and his attorney negotiated as part of a lucrative severance package that has raised eyebrows throughout the city. Civil Beat.

They’re supposed to uphold the law, but a new report is outlining some of the illegal activity Honolulu police officers have been caught doing. KHON2.

The Hawaii Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on whether a federal agent should face a third trial for fatally shooting a man in a Waikiki fast-food restaurant. State Department Special Agent Christopher Deedy's attorney is expected to argue Thursday that another trial would be double jeopardy. Associated Press.

Something's broken at Honolulu Hale: Councilman Trevor Ozawa has been dealing with a shattered window after recent high winds but that's just the beginning of costly repairs for asbestos and water damage. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii regulators have rejected a request by The Howard Hughes Corp. to do away with conditions set for the approval of the newest mixed-use high-rise residential project within the developer's 60-acre Ward Village master-planned community in Honolulu, a spokesman for the state agency confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A state House budget bill includes $8.9 million for Hilo Medical Center capital improvement projects. Tribune-Herald.

East Hawaii legislators are encouraging residents to stay active in efforts to pass a series of bills aimed at the long-term economic revitalization of Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Pablo M. Rivera, chief financial officer of the University of Nations/Youth with a Mission, has been charged with wire fraud for allegedly embezzling at least $1.5 million from the organization over a period of more than two years. West Hawaii Today.

One of the two people charged with intentionally setting fire to a Kona courthouse last year was recently sentenced to up to 20 years in prison. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Wailuku man is again facing a charge alleging he threatened Mayor Alan Arakawa five years ago. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park officials reported roughly a third of normal crowds gathered to watch sunrise at the dormant volcano’s summit on Wednesday, the first day of the park’s new reservation system for early-morning visitors. Maui News.

The trend to buy locally grown Maui produce is strong and will last into the future, but a Maui purchaser said the government should step in to help, especially the small, local producers who have to deal with new regulations and Hawaii’s high costs. Maui News.

Medical marijuana sales could begin this summer on Maui after one of the island’s two licensed dispensaries received approval Wednesday to begin cultivation. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has upped its renewable energy goal to achieving 70 percent renewable energy by 2030, the Lihue-based utility said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Asbestos has been found in the tile flooring of the Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall entrance. Garden Island.

Joseph Kamai has been fighting for public access to an ancient Hawaiian footpath that encircles Kauai for more than two decades. Garden Island.

Sunscreen oxybenzone ban advanced to protect coral, 100 attend assisted suicide forum, Hawaii's county workers highest paid, Legislature mulls Affordable Care Act, Honolulu mayor pushes for general excise tax surcharge, spectacular lava poses danger to onlookers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii coral © 2017 All Hawaii News

A proposed ban on sunscreen products containing oxybenzone, which includes most of the sun protection items currently on store shelves, was approved by the House Energy and Environmental Protection Committee on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

The House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection on Tuesday advanced a bill that would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing the chemical oxybenzone. Garden Island.

The House Committee on Energy and Environmental Protection today advanced House Bill 600, introduced by Representative Nicole Lowen (District 6, Kailua-Kona, Holualoa), which would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing the chemical oxybenzone. Maui Now.

About 100 people attended a forum on physician-assisted suicide Tuesday in the state Capitol auditorium. Attendees heard details of House Bill 201 (Relating to Aid in Dying), listened to experiences from patients and doctors, and had some of their questions answered about the matter. Star-Advertiser.

Congress is taking steps to repeal part of the 2010 Affordable Care Act commonly referred to as Obamacare.   Hawai’i lawmakers are also advancing legislation to protect residents who might lose their medical coverage. Hawaii Public Radio.

Concerned about the dissolution of the Affordable Care Act, state lawmakers are introducing bills to merge into Hawaii law the consumer protections they consider the best parts of the federal program. Associated Press.

Lawmakers Debate Bills To Make It Easier To Evict People. Housing Committee Chairman Tom Brower says he hasn’t decided about measures to amend the landlord-tenant code. Civil Beat.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has decided to personally pay for her trip to Syria, following new stories about her trip sponsor being a backer of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says she will “personally reimburse” all the costs of her recent week-long trip to Syria. Civil Beat.

New data released on Tuesday reveals county workers in Hawaii make the highest average wages in the nation, compared to employees from counties in other states. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Democratic Party is pulling its business from First Hawaiian Bank in support of Dakota pipeline protests. Hawaii Public Radio.

A former Hawaii State Supreme Court associate justice has died. Justice Mario Ramil was sworn in in 1993, and served for nearly a decade. KHON2.

Oahu

If state lawmakers will agree to extend the half-percent excise tax surcharge on Oahu to provide desperately needed funding for the city’s rail project, the city would be willing to share the tax revenues from that surcharge with the state, according to a pitch made Tuesday by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and City Council Chairman Ron Menor. Star-Advertiser.

Funding of police chief’s severance raises dispute: Does the Police Commission have the authority to spend HPD money? Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric announced Tuesday it has revived three major solar projects on Oahu that it terminated last year not long before the company that was supposed to build them filed for bankruptcy. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded a $9.8 million military contract to a joint venture between Hawaii contractors Aulii Construction and Nan Inc., for work at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The developer of a long-planned condominium project at the southern slopes of Punchbowl Crater in Honolulu is moving ahead with its development after filing building permits totaling $22 million. Pacific Business News.

A recent approval to build a seventh condominium tower at Ward Village is now on hold after the project’s developer filed objections to a few conditions imposed by a state agency regulating development in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

A man who got sick with Hepatitis A during last year's outbreak is demanding money from Genki Sushi and the chain's food suppliers, and he isn't alone. Lawyers are embroiled in dozens of cases related to the outbreak, including 3 class-action lawsuits. Hawaii News Now.

Maintenance issues persist in aging dorms at University of Hawaii at Manoa. KHON2.

New details about the investigation into the slaughter of 15 protected Laysan albatrosses at Kaena Point are contained in court documents filed by an attorney for one of the defendants. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The chief of the Hawaii Fire Department and at least two department staff flew to the state Capitol this week to testify in favor of a bill that would add an extra ambulance in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Just months after Hawaii County celebrated an $11.6 million upgrade to Mauna Kea Recreation Area, the county announced Tuesday the park has been closed until further notice. West Hawaii Today.

Scientists discovered they're dealing with not one but two strains of deadly fungus obliterating Ohi'a Lehua trees on the Big Island. KITV.

VIDEO: Spectacular “Lava Hose” Continues Plunge Into Sea. Big Island Video News.

A long, lateral crack in sea cliffs built by Kilauea Volcano has scientists worried about a second collapse into the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Authorities are cracking down on visitors entering an off-limits area inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to get a closer look at the lava spewing into the ocean. National Park Service law enforcement officers have cited 28 people since a large delta collapsed a month ago, forming a fire hose of lava. Hawaii News Now.

Donation brings companion to Kona’s most famous, loneliest donkey. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An empty bunk bed and two mattresses lying side by side on the floor — only steps away from the toilet — is a common sight in Maui Community Correctional Center cells originally designed for two inmates. Maui News.

Chancellor urges Legislature to establish $2.5M financial aid fund. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management announced it is soliciting grant applications/proposals from the public for the use of available funds from the DEM Recycling Grant, Fiscal Year 2018. MauiWatch.

Kauai

Three free workshops on food safety and spoilage are being offered around the island as a part of a statewide effort to promote safe and healthy local food in schools. Garden Island.

Anthony Morita is new community relations sergeant. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism hits new record, Pearl Harbor seeks exemption from Trump hiring freeze, backlash from Trump travel ban, University of Hawaii advises affected students, faculty to stay put, state to pay $3.9M to family of Maui fatality, Kauai jail crowded, change orders up public contract costs, Molokai unemployment office unstaffed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach scene © 2017 All Hawaii News

Hawaii tourist arrivals and spending reached records again last year — the fifth in a row — and it appears 2017 will be no different. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii tourism set new records in 2016, with total visitor arrivals rising 3 percent to nearly 9 million visitors, and spending increasing by 4.2 percent to a new high of $15.6 billion, according to year-end statistics by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii’s tourism industry established new records in total visitor spending and visitor arrivals in 2016, according to preliminary year-end statistics released Monday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. This marked the fifth straight year of record growth in both categories. Garden Island.

Almost 9 million visitors traveled to Hawaii last year as the state broke records for tourist arrivals and spending. KITV.

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Hawaii Congressional leaders, lawmakers and others are speaking out against President Trump's executive order temporarily banning immigrants and refugees from seven majority-Muslim nations from entering the United States. Hawaii News Now.

President Donald Trump's immigration ban is stirring up a number of emotions across the nation, and some in Hawaii are fearful of the fallout. KITV.

The University of Hawaii is now advising students and staff with immigrant or non-immigrant visas or green cards who are originally from the seven named countries in the order (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen) to defer travel outside the U.S. for now. KHON2.

Hawaii’s native Middle-Eastern and Muslim populations represent only a small faction of its overall demographic, but President Donald Trump’s executive order on immigration has inspired backlash among politicians, lawyers and residents of the state — both from those who identify as Muslim and those who don’t. West Hawaii Today.

A former Justice Department insider is bringing the debate over President Trump's immigration ban to Honolulu classrooms.Hawaii News Now.

One of the organizers of a recent trip that U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard took to Syria conceded Monday that he and his brother had been members of a group called the Syrian Social Nationalist Party — which, according to news reports, has backed the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and has links to terrorist activities — but said they were no longer a part of the organization. Star-Advertiser.

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The Hawaii Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment voted Monday to advance three measures dealing with pesticide exposure and safety. Garden Island.

The state Legislature has more than 3 months to decide on funding levels for Hawai’i’s public school system. But lawmakers are questioning some of the education cuts being proposed by the governor. Hawaii Public Radio

After several high-profile cases involving lost or stolen money, there’s a push to make homeowner associations more accountable. KHON2.

A bill proposed at the state Legislature looks to create a program for companies and others to get paid for taking part in regulatory reviews that the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission conducts. Pacific Business News.

A Hawaii lawmaker has proposed a bill that aims to speed up and bring the costs down during any other electric utility acquisition process in the wake of NextEra Energy Inc.’s failed $4.3 billion bid last year to buy Hawaiian Electric Co. Pacific Business News.

A proposal to inspect shipping containers for illegal fireworks is gaining momentum. The state attorney general has just issued a legal opinion on the bill. KHON2.

A DNA test to identify the coconut rhinoceros beetle, an invasive pest in its juvenile stages has been developed by scientists at the University of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, one of the state’s largest employers, hopes to hire more than 500 workers this year, including dozens of mechanics, engineers, IT specialists, administration personnel and laborers. But those jobs have been in limbo since President Donald Trump signed an executive order Jan. 23 freezing government hiring. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department has promoted two assistant chiefs, despite the vacancy at the top of the embattled agency. Hawaii News Now.

A fight over the Maunawili falls trail, a popular hiking trail in windward Oahu, is heating up. KHON2.

Hawaii

Riding a wave of new construction, charges added to county contracts to correct errors, account for unforeseen circumstances and expand the scope of work without going back out to bid nearly doubled in the past two years compared to the previous two years. West Hawaii Today.

The sponsor of legislation to transfer management of Hilo Medical Center to the County of Hawaii says he proposed it to help Mayor Harry Kim expand health services. Tribune-Herald.

A former real estate broker could receive probation and serve no more than a year in jail after pleading guilty to theft and failure to pay taxes. West Hawaii Today.

Frank Sayre and Laura Mallery-Sayre lost their son in a hiking fall 20 years ago. They turned their grief into a memorial foundation raising money for lifeguards and firefighters. Civil Beat.

Maui

The state has agreed to pay $3.9 million to the family of a 12-year-old San Diego boy who plunged to his death in 2012 from a cliff along Hana Highway. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Rosalyn Baker, D-6th District (South and West Maui) invites the public to attend a Talk Story on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Kīhei Charter School campus in Līpoa Center. Maui Now.

About 100,000 more visitors came to Maui in 2016 than in 2015, raising the island’s total count to its highest annual mark ever — 2.6 million — according to data released Monday by the Hawai’i Tourism Authority. Maui News.

The Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation wants to hire six new workers for the growing Central Maui Regional Sports Complex. Maui News.

Members of the Hawaiʻi National Guard, United States Coast Guard, paramedics, Kahului Airport security, Maui police and fire fighters will be participating in a large scale emergency operations exercise starting Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017. Maui Now.

Kauai

Correctional center designed for 127 has 174 inmates. Garden Island.

Volunteers have removed more than 9,000 pounds of debris from Kauai’s beaches over the past two weekends. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai unemployment office to be unstaffed: No one will replace Chocho Kaupu when she retires from the Molokai unemployment office today. Maui News.

Hawaii governor, attorney general, public protests denounce Trump immigration policies; lawmakers mull sunscreen ingredient ban, internet tax, drones, death with dignity, marijuana decriminalization, housing shortages, free tuition, homeless medical vans, more top government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Immigration rally Honolulu International Airport Jan. 29, 2017, courtesy Sen. Karl Rhoads

Hawaii State Attorney General Doug Chin has joined 16 other state attorneys general in condemning President Donald Trump’s executive order banning citizens from seven Muslim countries from entering the U.S. and suspending the admission of all refugees. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s AG Joins Others Opposing Immigration Ban. Doug Chin is among 17 attorneys general condemning Trump’s order blocking entry to the U.S. for citizens of seven countries. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Attorney General and Governor issue statements on Trump's Immigration policies. KITV.

Hawaii State Attorney General Doug Chin and 16 other state attorneys general released a joint statement Sunday condemning President Trump’s executive order that placed a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen. KHON2.

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Hawaii lawmakers are tackling drones, presidential tax returns and housing shortages as they head into their second full week of the Legislative session. They’re filling the calendar with legislative hearings after introducing more than 2,900 bills in the past week. Associated Press.

With tax collections apparently leveling off this year, lawmakers are now pressing state tax officials to explain what they plan to do to capture millions of dollars in uncollected taxes owed for internet sales in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

This could be the year Hawaii legislators pass a “death with dignity” bill, several told the Tribune-Herald.

Advocates for decriminalizing marijuana and drug paraphernalia think this may be the year the Hawaii Legislature takes action. But Gov. David Ige doesn’t want to pass new laws regarding marijuana until the state’s medical marijuana dispensaries get up and running. Civil Beat.

The state would spend $1.4 million every year to operate two mobile medical clinics aimed at helping sick or injured homeless people under a Senate bill aimed at cutting emergency room costs to treat homeless people for non-life-threatening issues. Star-Advertiser.

In an effort to protect our reefs, some lawmakers want to ban the sale of sunscreens that contain the chemical oxybenzone. Studies show it increases the rate of coral bleaching. KHON2.

Legislation related to paid leave, equal pay and family tax credits are included in the Hawaii women's legislative caucus package this year. Pacific Business News.

A new payment model the Hawaii Medical Service Association began rolling out with its primary care physicians in April has been expanded to include paying a fixed monthly rate to specialists such as cardiologists, oncologists and orthopedists. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii wants to provide a free education to community college students in financial need. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Employers Council Board of Governors has named KTA Super Stores President and Chief Operating Officer Toby Taniguchi its chairman for 2017. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Oahu vehicle owners could see their motor vehicle weight and fuel taxes, as well as their registration fees, rise significantly if both the Ige and Caldwell administrations get their way in the coming months. Star-Advertiser.

The city will continue to pay lawyers thousands of dollars to defend itself in lawsuits by outgoing Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha because his retirement agreement does not include his legal claims against the city, said the city’s Ethics Commission and the commission’s former executive director and investigator. Star-Advertiser.

Scores of protesters gathered Sunday at Honolulu International Airport, chanting and unfurling banners to denounce President Donald Trump’s sweeping executive order that has sparked spontaneous demonstrations across the country. Civil Beat.

Travelers walking out of the international arrivals gate at Honolulu Airport on Sunday were greeted by a welcoming party of more than 100 demonstrators chanting, “No hate, no fear. Refugees are welcome here.” Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii has selected a master developer to begin negotiating the planned build-out of more than 180 acres of vacant land next to the UH-West Oahu campus in Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii would be fine with a new, slightly smaller Aloha Stadium but is more concerned about an opportunity to generate revenue there, President David Lassner said. Star-Advertiser.

After more than a decade the Pupukea Play Courts was blessed and reopened to the North Shore community Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

New affordable housing for local artists coming soon to Kaka'ako. A groundbreaking ceremony was held Sunday for Ola Ka 'Ilima Artspace Lofts. KITV.

Commentary: Consider this time-honored Hawaii option for rail problem: Just ignore it and let it linger. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Legislation introduced this session by Rep. Cindy Evans (D- North Kohala, South Kohala, Kona) would allow for so-called “tiny homes” — houses that are less than 500 square feet — to be built on agricultural-zoned land for farm workers. House Bill 2 is specific to Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Kona’s state representative Dr. Richard Creagan chaired his first House Committee on Agriculture hearing last Friday, and with the bang of a gavel helped advance a bill to combat the threat of rat lungworm disease in Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

The cost of Hawaii County’s organic waste diversion program doubled last year with the signing of a new contract that includes construction of a composting facility next to the Hilo landfill. Tribune-Herald.

For one week every January, a handful of volunteers roam over the hills and into the bush, through the lava tubes and onto the beaches, scouring every secluded corner of Kona on the hunt for Hawaii Island’s most elusive, and often most desperate, population — its homeless. West Hawaii Today.

Each year, volunteers with HOPE Services — the isle’s largest provider of homeless services — hit the streets to conduct the Homeless Point in Time Count, a yearly national effort that aims to gauge the current number of sheltered and unsheltered people by asking participants where they slept on a single night in January. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Board of Ethics has whittled down a complaint against council Chairman Mike White over his organization of the Maui County Council and will hear the remaining allegations at its Feb. 8 meeting. Maui News.

No one really knows when Maui Waena Intermediate School’s new science building will open, aside from a final inspection of the elevators Feb. 9, the acting principal said Friday. Maui News.

Kauai
Instead of the hundreds of protesters that were expected to march along Mark Zuckerberg’s wall Saturday, only about 10 gathered in solidarity. Garden Island.

A meeting regarding the potential closure of the Rice Street post office will be held Feb. 23 at 6 p.m. at Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Projects proposed to improve Kapaa vehicle flow detailed at meeting. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige seeks to double food production by 2020, homelessness as medical condition, Honolulu bill would strengthen plastic bag ban, state could tighten drunk driving laws, activists plan march on Zuckerberg property, Kim injury keeps him from important hearing, Rep. Ing pleads no contest to citation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo Farmers Market © 2017 All Hawaii News

BREAKING: Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan: 'We are dropping our quiet title actions' Garden Island.

Money Sought To Protect Watersheds And Grow More Food. Hawaii Gov. David Ige joins department heads asking legislators to approve funds for his Sustainable Hawaii Initiative. Civil Beat.

Doubling Hawaii's local food production by 2020 is one of Governor Ige's marquee promises, and the state's Department of Agriculture is tasked with making it become a reality. But with the deadline just three years away, many are asking whether that number is still realistic. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority is considering measures to increase public transparency in the wake of criticism from the visitor industry and state lawmakers that it isn’t forthcoming about how it spends tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to market the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bill would classify homelessness as medical condition. Associated Press.

Measures Aim To Help Domestic Violence Victims Get Help. The Hawaii Women’s Legislative Caucus is also backing bills to ensure access to health care and to keep kids safe. Civil Beat.

The chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Energy said Thursday she would not consider bills about Hawaiian Electric Co. if the utility was not included in the process. Star-Advertiser.

The state is looking into tightening drunk driving laws. Right now, the legal limit is 0.08, but an effort is underway to lower that threshold to 0.05. KHON2.

State Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald says lawmakers have advanced some troubling bills in recent years to make dramatic changes in the selection, retention and pensions of state judges but that he doesn’t know if the measures were designed to convey some message of disapproval to the state Judiciary. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public schools look to lessen food waste. Hawaii News Now.

A proposal to put Office of Hawaiian Affairs CEO Kamana‘opono Crabbe on paid leave while the Board of Trustees works on a deal to buy out his employment contract failed Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

In a dramatic moment Thursday, Native Hawaiian activist Bumpy Kanahele called for an investigation into OHA's finances, throwing a handful of salt onto the group's meeting table and suggesting the board invite federal authorities to examine its business its dealings. Hawaii News Now.

Stephen Schatz, deputy superintendent for the state Department of Education, is leaving his post for a job at the University of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A bill to make Honolulu’s plastic bag ban more stringent has been languishing at the City Council despite concerns that the existing law isn’t doing enough to protect Oahu’s environment. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City council member Brandon Elefante has introduced a bill that would make it illegal to use your cell phone while crossing the street, or highway. KITV.

State Health Department officials have issued a public advisory for one of the lagoons at Ko Olina, saying there are high levels of a dangerous bacteria in the water. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Police Commission violated state law when it met behind closed doors to discuss Chief Louis Kealoha’s employment, including agreeing to allow him to retire with an added payment of $250,000, a lawsuit filed Thursday alleges. Civil Beat.

City regulators in Honolulu on Thursday ordered the owners of the shuttered Polynesian Plaza hotel in Waikiki to immediately stop construction work on the property until a new general contractor and plumber are found, Pacific Business News has learned.

Advanced Fresh Concepts Franchise Corp., doing business as AFC Sushi at Safeway Kapahulu, was fined $6,000 Thursday by the state Department of Health for food-safety violations and removing a health inspection placard from public view. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu, where the median price of a single-family home rose 5 percent last year, was one of the coolest spots in the U.S. for house flipping in 2016, when compared with other metropolitan areas. Pacific Business News.

Three utility-scale solar farms that Hawaiian Electric Co. terminated last year are going to be revived. Star-Advertiser.

The architects who favor street-level rail from Middle Street to Ala Moana Center have launched a website. KITV.

Ledcor Construction Hawaii LLC is suing the owners of the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, claiming the contractor wasn't paid for doing nearly $1 million of work on the hotel’s redevelopment project, Pacific Business News has learned.

Hawaii

Mayor Harry Kim injured his arm and missed an important hearing in Honolulu on Monday, sparking renewed concerns about his health. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island state lawmakers introduced an ambitious long-term plan to revitalize Hilo’s urban core during the ongoing legislative session. Tribune-Herald.

The county Planning Department wants input on a draft version of its Downtown Hilo improvement plan, which recommends converting multiple roads from one-way to two-way and more than doubling off-street public parking spaces. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo’s state senator has introduced a bill to unlock the economic potential of his district’s urban core. Big Island Video News.

Two years ago, the State Legislature appropriated $90 million dollars to build a new judiciary building in Kona.  Now, Hawai‘i State Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is asking for more funding. Hawaii Public Radio.

After threats to historic trails halted construction on Queen Kaahumanu Highway late last year, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced Thursday plans to resume the second phase of the highway widening project beginning next week. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Saying “I was mistaken” when he made earlier statements about his citation for not having vehicle insurance, state Rep. Kaniela Ing pleaded no contest Wednesday to the traffic crime. Maui News.

Maui Criminal Case Filings Increase 50% in Five Years. Maui Now.

Maui’s two licensed medical marijuana dispensaries are weeks away from beginning to grow their first crop, but it may take another four to five months before residents can get their hands on products. Maui News.

Kauai

More than 200 people on Kauai are planning a protest on Saturday near Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s 700-acre property in Kilauea. Hawaii News Now.

A California couple is asking $7.5 million for a 552-square-foot, one-bedroom home set on three-quarters of an acre within Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s 700 acres of oceanfront property on the island of Kauai’s North Shore, Pacific Business News has learned.

A store providing free school supplies for teachers on Kaua‘i will open its doors this weekend.  An organization called Kumu’s Cupboard in the Kukui Grove Center will provide resources for local teachers who would otherwise be using their own money to buy basic school supplies. Hawaii Public Radio.

Settlement in polygraph suit may cost state $400K. Star-Advertiser.

Alakai O Kauai Public Charter School is enrolling students. The school unanimously approved by the Hawaii State Charter School Commission is on track to open in August with 165 students. Garden Island.

Teachers union seeks property tax and hotel tax surcharge, Tulsi Gabbard confirms meeting with al-Assad, families vow to stay on Zuckerberg land, theBus may lose transfers, Omidyar Kauai dairy denied stormwater water permit extension, Maui developer seeks to nix public access, new corporation counsel for Big Island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Teachers rally, 1/21/17 Hawaii State Teachers Association Facebook page

The teachers union has again set its sights on generating more taxes to increase funding for Hawaii public schools. This time, it’s eyeing residential investment properties and visitor accommodations. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii teachers union is asking the Legislature to approve a constitutional amendment that would establish a statewide surcharge on residential investment property and visitor accommodations. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association believes taxing two areas would raise millions of dollars to recruit and retain teachers, reduce class sizes, pay for special education and fund educational programs.Hawaii News Now.

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U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard defended her trip to Syria and meeting with President Bashar Assad on Wednesday, saying that it’s impossible to broker any kind of peace deal without talking to the country’s leader, who has been accused of war crimes and human rights violations by lawmakers and human rights organizations. Star-Advertiser.

Back from her mysterious trip to Syria during inauguration week, Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard confirmed reports Wednesday that she had met with Syrian President Bashar Hafez al-Assad. Civil Beat.

Tulsi Gabbard,  a congressional Democrat just back from a weeklong trip to Syria defended her meeting with the war-torn country's president, saying Wednesday there's no possibility of a viable peace agreement unless Bashar Assad is part of the conversation. Associated Press.

Tulsi Gabbard Posts Video From Secret Trip To Syria. Big Island Video News.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard returned to Washington, DC after a week-long visit to Syria with a renewed and greater resolve to end the war there. Maui Now.

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Medical marijuana licensees can begin cultivating their crops next week, the state announced Wednesday. But exactly when patients can begin purchasing products is still unclear. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii officials are proposing several rule changes for state harbors in response to ongoing concerns, including limitations on alcohol consumption and a ban on feeding wildlife and feral animals. Associated Press.

On a per-patient basis, Hawaii was ranked No. 16 in Medicare waste, with an average overpayment of $11.31 per patient, and overpayments totaled $1.47 million for 2015, compared to just under $5 million in 2014. Pacific Business News.

New data from the state Campaign Spending Commission shows 2016 highlights. Civil Beat.

Despite calls for reconciliation and peace, the fractured Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees is likely to engage in even more skirmishing next week, possibly including an attempt to topple Chairwoman Rowena Akana from her leadership role. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: With so much to do and so little time to get it done, why in the world would Souki and other key legislators  pick another unnecessary fight with the Hawaii State Judiciary? But that’s exactly what it appears they’re doing. Civil Beat.

Hundreds of volunteers have been canvassing the streets across the state. They’re counting homeless individuals and families for the annual Point-In-Time Count. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Those flimsy, hard-to-read paper bus transfer slips soon will be a thing of the past while all-you-can-ride, one-day passes will be the future under a bill passed 9-0 by the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge says the lawyer representing Honolulu Police Chief Louis Ke­aloha against possible federal criminal charges cannot also represent two people suing the city and three former police officers. Star-Advertiser.

 Myles Breiner has filed numerous lawsuits attacking the credibility of the Honolulu Police Department, the chief and his prosecutor wife. Now he’s representing the couple. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Department is going through changes with its chief of police, Louis Kealoha, retiring in about a month. KHON2.

Work crews started striping new two-way bike lanes on McCully Street this week — the latest step in the city’s gradual efforts to make Honolulu more bike-friendly, and to encourage more of its residents to get around by bicycle. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to prohibit most commercial activity at five Waimanalo beaches was approved by the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Civil Beat.

The developer of Hawaii’s largest solar farm said it has begun pumping power to the grid. Star-Advertiser.

A permitting dispute is intensifying on Oahu's North Shore, where city officials have issued a third notice of violation for a controversial commercial development near Sharks Cove. Hawaii News Now.

INspiration Interiors is expanding to West Oahu with a new location in the former Sports Authority space at the Target-anchored Kapolei Commons shopping center, Pacific Business News has learned.

Hawaii

A County Council 8-1 confirmation vote Wednesday made Joe Kamelamela the county’s top civil lawyer. West Hawaii Today.

A handful of bills that would facilitate clearing albizia trees from private property passed their first readings in the state Legislature. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council on Wednesday voted unanimously to pass a nonbinding resolution again asking the Legislature to put money in the budget for lifeguards, a lifeguard tower and necessary equipment at Kua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo businessman Ken Fujiyama and his company still owe about $6.1 million to a North Carolina bank that held mortgage on the then-Naniloa Volcanoes Resort, according to a complaint filed in Hilo Circuit Court. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Developer wants to nix public access after county fails to purchase land. Maui News.

A second-chance hearing for an unpermitted zipline company in Haiku was unanimously denied by the Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

In his quest to create a secluded, tranquil estate on Kauai, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has run into a messy problem that involves publicly advocating for something Native Hawaiians often regard as an injustice equated to stealing land. Star-Advertiser.

Heirs of kuleana land on Zuckerberg property say they’re not selling. Garden Island.

A second extension for a storm water permit has been denied for a proposed dairy on Kauai's south shore. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai’s pesticide legislation, Ordinance 960, was repealed Wednesday through the approval of Bill 2643 upon second reading during a Kauai County Council meeting. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council unanimously voted to “clear the books” of an invalidated county law the courts had struck down requiring biotech companies to disclose pesticide use and regulate the growth of genetically modified organisms. Star-Advertiser.

There will be no county-sanctioned drinking alcohol on the links anytime soon at Wailua Golf Course. Garden Island.

Lihue Post Office may close: Site may be consolidated with facility off Kapule Highway. Garden Island.

Endangered monk seal population recovering, Zuckerberg reconsiders neighbor stance, OHA airs gripes at public meeting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monk seal at Five Fathom Pinnacle, Hawaii, courtesy Kent Backman

Scientists and government officials delivered some rare good news Tuesday about one of the world’s most endangered animals, the Hawaiian monk seal. Civil Beat.

The population of Hawaiian monk seals — one of the world’s most critically endangered marine mammals — has been increasing 3 percent a year for the past three years, federal wildlife officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents who have been waiting 16 years for a legal place to buy medical marijuana will have to wait at least several more months. But as of next week, their medicine can start growing. Civil Beat.

The chairwoman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs on Tuesday addressed dozens of allegations of human resource violations filed against her by OHA employees. Civil Beat.

The Department of Education is installing cameras on buses to keep track of students even when they’re out of the classroom. KHON2.

Lawmaker wants DOE to standardize concussion evaluation. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Board of Water Supply crews this morning have repaired the 24-inch water main that broke on Kalanianaole Highway early Saturday. Officials expect all eastbound lanes to be open by noon Wednesday, the agency said. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu's acting police chief is opposed to using $250,000 in police department funds for a severance payment to outgoing Police Chief Louis Kealoha, according to a letter obtained by Hawaii News Now.

Retiring Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s $250,000 severance payment isn’t sitting well with his acting successor. Civil Beat.

House Bill 148, introduced by Rep. Gregg Takayama, D, Pearl City, Waimalu, Pacific Palisades, would allow single-occupant vehicles to use the Zipper Lane for a $1 fee. KHON2.

A state lawmaker plans to introduce a bill on Wednesday to take the next step in redeveloping the Aloha Stadium area. Hawaii News Now.

IHOP is expanding a new restaurant concept called "IHOP Fresh & Go" in Hawaii, which will become the first of its kind in the United States, the franchiseee for IHOP in the state confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council moved no closer to passing new limits on buying alcohol with public funds after a second round of discussion Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

George Yokoyama, community organizer, grant writer and fundraiser, political kingmaker — and Living Treasure of Hawaii — died Sunday at Hospice of Hilo Pohai Malama Care Center following a brief illness. He was 90. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Oceanic Technology Inc., a Honolulu-based open ocean fish farming technology company, has shut down after nearly a decade in business, Pacific Business News has learned.

Maui

In his State of the State address Monday, Gov. David Ige touted the state’s efforts to combat homelessness, saying that more beds for homeless people are being created through a new contract process — a statement contradicted by Maui shelter officials last week. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park visitors are being reminded that the National Park Service’s new reservation system for sunrise viewing will begin Feb. 1. Maui News.

Kamehameha Schools buys Wailuku building. Maui News.

Kamehameha Schools has acquired the former office building of the Wailuku Federal Credit Union on Maui that will be turned into the Maui regional office and community resource center for the state’s largest private landowner, the $11 billion educational-focused trust said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Mark Zuckerberg announced today through a spokesman that he is “reconsidering” his quiet title lawsuits filed recently against hundreds of owners or potential owners of land on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says he is reconsidering his actions involving quiet title cases on Kauai after filing several lawsuits against kuleana land owners. Maui Now.

Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg says he wants to be a good neighbor, but Naoshi Grady didn’t feel any aloha when he says he was harassed and intimidated while using a coastal trail that passes through the billionaire’s 700-acre property on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Governor touts education, housing in third State of the State address, lawmakers push counties to tax themselves more, Kauai missile defense plans, Ellison closes Lanai golf course, Hilo landfill almost pau, Waikiki condo put on hold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige 2017 State of the State, courtesy photo

Full transcript of Gov. David Ige's State of the State address here.

Gov. David Ige offered up a cautious State of the State address to lawmakers Monday that underscored his achievements during his first two years as governor, and warned that a slowing state economy will require “adjustments” to his proposed two-year $28.5 billion budget. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige’s third State of the State address was heavy on improving public education and innovating economic development. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige says transforming schools is key to diversifying the state’s economy, and he wants to expand a program that enables high school students to earn college credits for free. Associated Press.

Governor's State of the State Address: Downward Adjustments to Executive Budget Forthcoming. Hawaii Public Radio.

In his third State of the State address on Monday, Gov. David Ige pointed to homelessness, education and government accountability as the core priorities for his administration in the coming year, but he also warned of a slowing economy that could prompt tough budget decisions. Hawaii News Now.

Governor David Ige made affordable housing one of the main cornerstones to his Monday state of the state speech. Pacific Business News.

Recent changes in revenue projections were mentioned in Governor David Ige’s state of the state address on Monday.Big Island Video News.

Leaders of the Hawaii Legislature say they generally agree with Hawaii Gov. David Ige's public policy goals. But they want to see more details on his proposals. KITV.

Hawaii’s political spotlight settled firmly on Gov. David Ige Monday, as he delivered the 2017 State of the State Address on Oahu. West Hawaii Today.

For Kauai representatives, Gov. David Ige’s plans to address homelessness and enhance the school system were some of the main takeaways from his State of the State address. Garden Island.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige touted the success of the state’s accelerator programs In his third State of the State address on Monday as he called for investment in Hawaii’s innovation sector. Pacific Business News.

Parents and others concerned about recent deaths of children in day care filled a Hawaii Senate committee hearing room Monday to support bills that would toughen sanctions against negligent operators and bolster safe sleeping rules meant to prevent sudden infant death syndrome. Civil Beat.

Hawaii residents eventually might be able to use marijuana recreationally, and patients could be allowed to purchase it from legally formed collectives.Those are among more than a dozen bills being vetted in the state Legislature related to marijuana and marijuana dispensaries. Tribune-Herald.

Few Tears Shed In Hawaii As Trump Dumps Pacific Trade Pact. Civil Beat.

The recent power struggle that has wracked the leadership of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is expected to flare up again this week in two board of trustees meetings scheduled to take place behind closed doors. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell told state lawmakers Monday that he is proposing to raise fuel and weight taxes, and city parking fees, and might even ask for an array of other hikes to pay for construction, operation and maintenance of Oahu’s rail line. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers want the counties to put “more skin in the game” instead of just coming to the state year after year asking for more money, especially when it comes to Honolulu and funding for its increasingly expensive 20-mile rail project. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell faced tough questions as he tried to convince state lawmakers to approve a permanent extension of the 0.5 percent general excise surcharge used to fund the cash-strapped rail project. They wanted to know what was being done to control rising costs. With a $5.2 billion budget two years ago, Caldwell assured legislators at that time that an extension through 2027 would cover a $910 million shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed fee hikes target drivers, vehicle owners on Oahu. KHON2.

Majority Leader Scott Saiki says his proposed legislation to prohibit a sitting governor or county mayor from holding outside employment or receiving emoluments is inspired by President Donald Trump, not Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu developers of a 32-story, 246-unit condominium-hotel project that would replace the King’s Village shopping center in Waikiki are pressing the pause button on this development because of high construction and decreasing demand for this type of product, an executive from the development team confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Volunteers and social service outreach workers fanned out across Oahu on Monday night to interact with the homeless and try to get an accurate head count for an island that once had the highest per capita rate of homelessness in the country. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Closure of the Hilo landfill remains a moving target, but the East Hawaii rubbish dump could reach capacity in as little as a year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Three Maui facilities spewed nearly 190,000 pounds of toxic chemicals into the air in 2015 with the two Maui Electric Co. power plants logging the largest releases in Maui County, the Environmental Protection Agency reported. Maui News.

Kauai

The head of the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance still wants the Pentagon to activate a Kauai missile defense testing facility for the protection of Hawaii in emergencies. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg plans to build a single home on the 700 acres of oceanfront land he owns on Kauai’s North Shore, even though half the land once held entitlements in place for up to 80 luxury homes, Pacific Business News has learned.

Lanai

Billionaire Larry Ellison, who co-founded Oracle Corp. and owns 98 percent of the Hawaiian Island of Lanai, is closing one of the two golf courses he owns on the island, a spokeswoman for the company managing the two golf courses confirmed to Pacific Business News Monday.

The Lodge at Koele, one of the two Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts-branded hotels owned by billionaire co-founder of Oracle Corp. and Lanai owner Larry Ellison, is scheduled to re-open in 2018 with a mix of hotel rooms and a spa and wellness concept, a spokeswoman Four Seasons Resorts Lanai confirmed to Pacific Business News Monday.