Obama and Abe to visit Pearl Harbor today, $112M for renewable energy, Honolulu to tax part-time homeowners higher, Kim institutes hiring freeze, 12% raises for Maui officials, lawmaker publishes Hawaii Kai homeless map, new civil defense chief, Kenoi's legacy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe places a wreath at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at the Punchbowl in Honolulu, Hawaii on December 26, 2016. (AFP PHOTO/JAPAN POOL VIA JIJI PRESS /STR)

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe laid wreaths at various cemeteries and memorials Monday ahead of a visit to the site of the 1941 bombing that plunged the United States into World War II. Associated Press.

Putting 75 years of resentment behind them, the leaders of the United States and Japan are coming together at Pearl Harbor for a historic pilgrimage to the site where a devastating surprise attack sent America marching into World War II. Associated Press.

In a solemn, silent tribute, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe presented a white chrysanthemum wreath at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Monday, bowing his head slightly as a gentle rain fell. Star-Advertiser.

In a gesture that highlights the strength of U.S-Japan relations and how far the two nations have come since World War II, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will join President Obama at the USS Arizona Memorial on Tuesday to mark the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Hawaii News Now.

The historic visit to Honolulu of Japan’s top leader began Monday morning at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Civil Beat.

Prime Minister Abe Shinzo paid tribute to fallen warriors at the National Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl shortly after arriving in Honolulu Monday. KITV.

President Barack Obama and first lady Michele Obama thanked hundreds of service members and their families on Christmas Day in his final holiday visit as commander-in-chief to the Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Commentary: We in Hawaii know Obama’s historic presidency was all the richer because of his Hawaii roots. Star-Advertiser.

Legislation introduced a year ago by two Hawaii lawmakers is now law. “Talia’s Law,” as it is called, seeks to at better protect children from abuse on military bases. Civil Beat.

More than half a million Hawaii residents in commercial health plans will see an average 6.2 percent rate hike Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian Electric companies that power Oahu, Maui County and the Big Island have submitted a plan to state energy regulators that lays out how they will achieve 100 percent of their electricity generation from renewable sources by 2040 — five years sooner than the state-mandated goal. Civil Beat.

Eight organizations have banded together on a mission to create more electric options in ground transportation in Hawaii, including the state’s Department of Transportation and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

The state paid out $112 million in tax credits for renewable energy investment in 2014, the largest state tax credit for the year. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii residents eye the fresh ahi sashimi platters traditionally found on holiday dinner tables, major negotiations loom next year over how much tuna commercial fishermen should be allowed to catch. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii researchers say severe birth defects related to the Zika virus occurred in the islands several years before this year’s outbreaks in Brazil and Puerto Rico. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A Honolulu ordinance that taxes homeowners at higher rates for million-dollar homes that they don’t live in full time will remain in effect after a state judge Friday reversed his October decision that found that the tax classification was unconstitutional. Star-Advertiser.

A state legislator has published a map of suspected homeless people in his district in an effort to raise public awareness of the problem, but some attorneys say the effort could be unconstitutional.Star-Advertiser.

City Councilman Joey Manahan has met with officials at the Honolulu Country Club in an effort to address concerns by Salt Lake residents about foul odors emanating from the waters around the club. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Fire Department said it has been fined $15,400 and told to control workplace hazards as a result of an investigation into the accidental death of firefighter Clifford Rigsbee during a training exercise. Star-Advertiser.

A Waipahu homeless shelter is preparing to close its doors for good. Shelter officials at Lighthouse Outreach Center say new regulations adopted by the state are to blame. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

Mayor Harry Kim has instituted a hiring freeze while county departments revamp their procedures for selecting job candidates. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Harry Kim tapped a former chief ranger at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to be Hawaii County’s next Civil Defense administrator. Tribune-Herald.

Two Former Big Island Mayors Weigh In on Billy Kenoi's Political Future. Hawaii Public Radio.

A room set aside for welcoming cruise ship passengers at Hilo Harbor will be turned into a security office, frustrating greeters who have waited four years to return to the space. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island tourism numbers are approaching a record high thanks to an ongoing shift in arrivals from cruise ships to airlines. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii House Majority Leader Scott Saiki is calling on the state Supreme Court to speed up the contested-case hearings for the permit to build a giant telescope atop Mauna Kea. Associated Press.

Honokaa anxiously awaits gym's re-opening -- a year from now. Hawaii News Now.

Peaman cited: Race goes on but organizer says he has court date in February. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The 12 percent pay raise approved earlier this month for Mayor Alan Arakawa and his department appointees stands after the Maui County Salary Commission took no new action Friday, despite calling a special meeting after questions arose about the nondescriptive agenda item posted for its last meeting. Maui News.

The proposed new Maui County Service Center in Alexander & Baldwin’s Maui Business Park II in Puunene/Kahului has an estimated price tag of $27 million and would include a number of new occupants. Maui News.

The Dorvin and Betty Leis Charitable Trust announced it is donating a total of $1.25 million to 17 nonprofits on Maui. Pacific Business News.

Leis family is the model for philanthropic giving. Maui News.

The Kihei Community Association has provided about a quarter of the cost for a follow-up study to look into the water quality off South Maui in the context of human health. Maui News.

Kauai

Fire Chief Robert Westerman talks growth, future needs. Garden Island.

There’s another set of hands working in Katherine Muzik’s underwater coral garden named Mala Moana, or “Ocean Garden,” in Hawaiian. Garden Island.

University of Hawaii to gain in Ige budget, Republicans dwindle in state Legislature, low pay, high credit card debt for residents, Honolulu Ethics Commission mulls PAC laws, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Obama's fish, courtesy National Geographic

Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have named a fish after President Obama. Hawaii Public Radio.

President Barack Obama, his family and some friends are spending the afternoon at a beach at a marine corps base near his Hawaii vacation rental. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige’s call for increased education dollars in his proposed state budget extends to higher education as well with a $44 million boost for operations at the University of Hawaii over the next two years. Star-Advertiser.

There are no more Republicans in the Hawaii state Senate, while the number of members in the House has dwindled to six. Civil Beat.

A Big Day For US-Japan Relations Tuesday At Pearl Harbor. Prime Minister Abe will join President Obama to honor Americans killed in Japan’s surprise attack on Oahu in 1941. Civil Beat.

Despite threats of an Obamacare repeal, 11,750 Hawaii residents signed up this year to renew or buy for the first time health insurance through the federal exchange, HealthCare.gov, for coverage starting on New Year’s Day. Star-Advertiser.

By some measures, employment is booming in Hawaii and the rest of the country. But the shortage of good-paying jobs — the kind where wages are high enough to afford a decent standard of living — is attracting top-level political attention in both Honolulu and the nation’s capital. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the eighth-highest credit card debt in the nation, with customers owing an average $5,966, according to a new report by CreditCards.com. Star-Advertiser.

A former state representative has died. Mark Moses represented the Makakilo and Kapolei communities from 1996-2006. KHON2.

Oahu

Opening day for the state Legislature is still weeks away, but there's already a proposal to extend the .5 percent rail tax surcharge. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Ethics Commission considered a request today to curb the unfair influence of Super PACs. Hawaii Public Radio.

Acting Honolulu Police Chief Cary Okimoto may face uncomfortable questions come January as he attempts to explain to police commissioners his proximity to a growing scandal involving a missing mailbox. Civil Beat.

City prosecutor explains why he wants chief’s wife to stay on the job. KHON2.

Honolulu police are reporting a big drop in speeding tickets so far this year. Hawaii News Now.

A medical marijuana dispensary with ties to Hawaii businessman Colbert Matsumoto is opening in the former Bank of Hawaii branch on Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu, Pacific Business News has learned.

For years, families have been laying small plaques in the rocks at Pokai Bay to remember loved ones who've passed on. But state law says it's illegal to install these on any heiau without written permission. KITV.

Hawaii

More than three weeks after the first bout of winter weather hit Hawaii Island, the Mauna Kea Summit Access Road is still closed to the public. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The developer of the Pulelehua working-class community in West Maui and owner of the Maalaea Harbor Shops & Restaurants says he was exonerated in fraud case. Maui News.

The Maui Ocean Center is hosting a contest to seek help from the public in naming six baby sea turtles. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Department of Parks and Recreation officials are reminding the public that the deadline to provide input on the draft preferred master plan for Black Pot Beach Park is Saturday, Dec. 31. Garden Island.

Obama and Abe to visit Pearl Harbor Tuesday, drone recovered from South China Sea, Japan-Kona flights resume, Hawaii has small population bump, lawmaker sponsors albatross cruelty bill, Kauai mayor to veto alcohol golf course bill, sewer rate increase for Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Drone recovered from China, courtesy U.S. Pacific Fleet

U.S. Pacific Fleet released photos today of a Navy “ocean glider” unmanned underwater vehicle taken Dec. 15 by China — leading to U.S. accusations that the sovereign vessel had been unlawfully seized. Star-Advertiser.

The USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center will be closed Tuesday due to a visit by President Barack Obama and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the National Park Service said. Star-Advertiser.

Newly found Hawaiian fish is named after the president who expanded its sanctuary. Star-Advertiser.

Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have named a fish after President Obama. Hawaii Public Radio.

The population of Hawaii grew by about 3,400 people between July 2015 and this July. The current estimate for the daily population, according to the latest figures from the U.S. Census Bureau, is 1,428,557. Civil Beat.

Federal figures show more people are leaving Hawaii for the mainland than coming to live in the state. Associated Press.

Maui and Kauai were in the top 10 least affordable counties according to a new report by ATTOM Data Solutions. Pacific Business News.

For the first time in nearly a decade, the state Environmental Council’s 15 seats are full thanks to a slew of appointments by Gov. David Ige. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers to consider doubling funds to state-funded drug rehab centers. Hawaii News Now.

Do Hawaii Prisons Overuse Solitary Confinement? Most of the islands’ maximum-custody inmates live in special holding cells for up to 23 hours per day. The policy bucks a national trend. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Amid leadership crisis, Honolulu Police Department spent $74K to improve image. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu taxpayers are still paying Police Chief Louis Kealoha's salary even though he temporarily stepped down from his position. KITV.

The Honolulu Police Department’s reputation has taken a hit with the chief and four officers being targeted in a federal investigation. Hawaii News Now.

The day after Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha took leave amid a growing public corruption case, his wife remains on the job as a deputy city prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

Court cases dealing with evictions on Oahu are down by 25 percent since April with the help of $4.7 million in state funds used to help families stay in their homes. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu has been designated as a “High Performer” by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Section Eight Management Assessment Program for the sixth year in a row, recognizing the city’s ability to provide rent subsidies for low-income households. Pacific Business News.

An attempt by the Friends of Makakilo to stop the 11,750-home Hoopili project planned for Leeward Oahu and to limit the Honolulu rail line failed Wednesday after the Honolulu Ethics Commission ruled that key City Council votes enabling the projects should not be overturned. Star-Advertiser.

Houston’s NRG Energy Inc., which recently took over ownership of the bankrupt SunEdison Inc.’s large solar farm projects in Hawaii, including some that have been stalled, is making moves to restart these stalled projects, Pacific Business News has learned.

Honolulu officials have released a “Blaisdell Center Master Plan Feasibility Study and Conceptual Land Use Plan,” which they say calls for the Arena and Concert Hall “to be retained and renovated.” Civil Beat.

Lawmaker will introduce 2 bills in response to albatross cruelty case. KITV.

A 19-year-old college student has been charged with animal cruelty, nearly a year after seabirds were found dead at a Hawaii nature reserve. Associated Press.

Hawaii

At around noon Wednesday, the first international flight in half a dozen years arrived at the Kona International Airport at Keahole, bringing with it 280 passengers — a full flight — to the Big Island from Japan. West Hawaii Today.

A white-tented temporary customs inspection station at Kona International Airport processed incoming visitors Wednesday after Hawaiian Airlines’ inaugural nonstop flight from Haneda International Airport in Tokyo touched down shortly after noon. Star-Advertiser.

The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission is reviewing a proposed radiation monitoring plan for Pohakuloa Training Area. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Harry Kim’s first Cabinet appointee was easily confirmed Wednesday by the County Council, but at least one future nominee might find the going a little more difficult. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaii Water Service Co. is seeking sewer rate increases phased in over five years that would more than double its revenues from nearly 880 residential, business and government customers in Pukalani. Maui News.

Maui County is slowly on its way to having an electricity-generating facility that will power the Wailuku-Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility as well as produce fertilizer that the county could sell. Maui News.

A complaint against Maui County Council Chairman Mike White was filed with the Board of Ethics on Tuesday questioning White’s declaration to continue to serve as council chair for the next two-year term before formal public hearings or votes on leadership by the full council, according to a news release sent by the complainant. Maui News.

Maui Ocean Center has a special permit to collect coral, which is otherwise strictly prohibited.  The team got to be part of a coral recovery operation at multiple harbors across the state, after damage from the 2011 tsunami. Maui Now.

Kauai

In the days following Mayor Bernard Carvalho’s announcement he plans to veto the bill allowing alcohol to be served at Wailua Golf Course, some Kauai County Councilmembers say his reasons are unclear. Garden Island.

The only way for Alakai O Kauai Public Charter School to open next fall is for the school to move into an already existing structure. Garden Island.

County announces holiday closures. Garden Island.

Honolulu police chief put on leave, Kauai warden cleared in sex therapy program, Hawaii receives $11.5M to fight homelessness, beach time for Obama family, state lawmakers seek more rail details, arrest in slaughter of 17 Laysan albatrosses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Police Chief Louis Kealoha and deputies, courtesy Honolulu Police Department

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha has been placed on paid leave for 30 days after being named as a target of a federal grand jury investigation that involves allegations of corruption and abuse of power. Civil Beat.

Embattled Police Chief Louis Kealoha was placed on paid leave and is no longer involved in running the Honolulu Police Department while his bosses, the Honolulu Police Commission members, decide what to do next, police and commission officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Police Chief voluntarily stepped down yesterday following notification that he’s under federal investigation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Embattled Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha was relieved of his gun, badge and official duties Tuesday and placed himself on leave, one day after receiving a letter from a federal prosecutor notifying him that he is the target of an ongoing public corruption case. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha is stepping down for now. KITV.

Honolulu’s chief of police, Louis Kealoha, placed himself on restricted duty Tuesday and has agreed to go on leave for at least 30 days. KHON2.

Target letter chief received aimed at spurring his cooperation. Hawaii News Now.

A legislator, city councilman, former police officer and criminologist are among those who are calling for a change in leadership at the Honolulu Police Department after its top executive, Chief Louis Kealoha, was placed on paid leave Tuesday following confirmation that he was the target of a federal criminal investigation. Star-Advertiser.

===============

Hawaii’s share of new federal money to help combat homelessness is $11.5 million. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is receiving $11.5 million in federal grants to combat homelessness as the number of homeless people continues to rise, but the state missed out on a grant for permanent housing that could have brought in another $450,000. Associated Press.

The state Board of Education is aiming to have a new schools chief in place by the summer under a search timeline and process the board unanimously adopted Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Board of Education plans to have a new superintendent selected by June under a timeline and search process that it approved Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Blueprint For Education Still Being Refined, School Board Told. The document being prepared by a governor’s task force is expected to complement the Department of Education’s own strategic plan. Civil Beat.

Senators Assigned Committees. Hirono will return to serve on the Senate Judiciary while Schatz will join the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Civil Beat.

President Obama spent part of his fourth day of vacation in the islands at the beach with family and friends in Waimanalo. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama and his family spent three sunny hours at the beach at Bellows Air Force Station on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

POTUS Press Pool Prose. A New York Times reporter returns to Oahu to wax poetically about scenic vistas and McDonald’s. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines anticipates a three-month delay on the delivery of three new Airbus A321neo aircraft. Pacific Business News.

Island Air is leasing three new turboprop aircraft, the first addition to Hawaii interisland airline’s fleet since its acquisition early this year by Honolulu investment firm PacifiCap. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii's largest shipper, Matson Inc., is adding service to the Port of Naha in Okinawa as part of its expedited express service between Long Beach, California, and China. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

With another tax-extension request coming their way, state lawmakers have now formally asked that rail’s federal partners brief them directly in Hawaii on the financially troubled project. Star-Advertiser.

A federal agency may have given Honolulu an April 30 deadline to pull a rail financing plan together, but a key state lawmaker said this week she isn’t feeling any pressure to approve enabling legislation by that date. Civil Beat.

City to auction off dozens of vehicles from overflowing tow yard. KHON2.

Some farmers moving into Waianae are trying to reassure their future neighbors they won't pollute the air with toxic chemicals. Hawaii News Now.

Stricter state standards may cause a Waipahu homeless shelter to close its doors. But residents are rallying around the Lighthouse Outreach Center. KITV.

The number of rooftop solar permits issued for Oahu dropped 40 percent in November compared with the same month last year. Star-Advertiser.

A man was arrested Tuesday in connection with the slaughter of 17 Laysan albatrosses at Kaena Point almost a year ago. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fined Weston Solutions Inc. $25,000 for violating an order issued in 2010. Star-Advertiser.

The Cheesecake Factory Inc., whose bustling restaurant in the heart of Waikiki is one of the company's top-grossing locations in the U.S., is opening its second Hawaii restaurant at DeBartolo Development’s Ka Makana Alii mixed-use shopping mall in Kapolei, Pacific Business News has learned.

Hawaii

A geothermal health study could get more expensive for Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

Incoming Police Chief Paul Ferreira tapped into departmental internal affairs to select his second in command. West Hawaii Today.

Aina Lea Inc., which is developing a 1,099-acre Villages of Aina Lea on the Kohala Coast on the west side of the Big Island, has merged with New York’s Origo Acquisition Corp., which is publicly-traded on the Nasdaq. Pacific Business News.

Maui

The upper​ half-mile of the Pīpīwai Trail​ in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park,​ including the viewpoint for Waimoku Falls, is now open​ to visitors. Maui Now.

In his executive two-year budget released Monday, Gov. David Ige has included $9.5 million to help fund the takeover of Maui Memorial Medical Center by Kaiser Permanente Hawaii. Maui News.

A Maui business that received a license to sell medical marijuana has revealed plans for its new dispensary, which will include space for a public cannabis education center. Associated Press.

One of the two Maui groups that received a medical marijuana dispensary license showcased its flagship dispensary Friday in Kahului, including its public cannabis education center and retail space. Maui News.

The infusion of drinking water Monday from a new well that has been cleared by the Health Department will alleviate low water pressure issues in East Maui communities caused by a pump problem, the Department of Water Supply reported. Maui News.

Kauai
A federal jury found today that a warden at a Kauai jail did not subject female inmates to sexual humiliation and discrimination, and did not retaliate against a jail social worker who brought the suit. Star-Advertiser.

The warden of Kauai Community Correction Center was found not liable on Tuesday of sexual humiliation and discrimination. Garden Island.

Hoping to spur a resolution of a yearslong dispute over stream water in West Kauai, the state Agribusiness Development Corporation approved a five-year lease to the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative for its Puu Opae hydropower project. Civil Beat.

Ige unveils $28.5B biennial budget, Honolulu police chief gets FBI target letter, Caldwell lets ride-sharing bill become law, mumps on Maui, Thirty Meter Telescope close to Canary Islands deal, Obama vacation, rogue elector goes for Sanders, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Ige budget news conference, courtesy Office of the Governor

Gov. David Ige today unveiled his proposed $28.5 billion state budget for the next two years that includes money for severance payouts for Maui hospital workers who will lose their jobs to privatization, funding for new jail space for women offenders, and more money to combat homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige is proposing a state budget that boosts spending on education, housing and homelessness. The plan calls for $28.5 billion in spending on operations and $3 billion on capital improvement projects over the next two years. Associated Press.

Hawaii public schools would see a significant boost in funding to the tune of $93 million for operations under a proposed two-year state budget Gov. David Ige released Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige’s biennium budget proposal seeks additional money for every state department, with a special emphasis on education. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige is proposing a state budget that boosts spending on education, housing and homelessness. Hawaii News Now.

Governor David Ige wants to spend big over the next two years, increasing the state's operating budget to $28.5 Billion. KITV.

Gov. David Ige was sporting an aloha shirt featuring ohia foliage Monday, as he announced a no-new-taxes biennial budget that includes money to protect the important tree as well as funds for other Big Island projects. West Hawaii Today.

There are several Maui projects outlined for budget allocations under the governor’s proposal including $12 million to repair flood damage and reconstruction at ʻĪao Valley State Monument. Maui Now.

Gov. Ige's budget details here.

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Will 2017 be the year for medical aid-in-dying legislation for Hawaii? Compassion & Choices Hawaii has a new poll showing that 80 percent of Hawaii voters believe a “death with dignity” option should be available for a terminally ill person who is mentally capable to receive a prescription for life-ending medication. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s four Electoral College electors were required by law to vote for Hillary Clinton because she won the general election in the state, but one so-called “faithless elector” voted for Sen. Bernie Sanders instead. Associated Press.

Rogue isle elector votes for Sanders, despite Clinton win. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's electors gathered at the state Capitol to cast their votes for president. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sen. Mazie K. Hirono announced that the Hawaii Department of Health will receive $1.1 million in Centers for Disease Control funding to fight the Zika virus. Garden Island.

Workout, golf and dinner comprise president’s day. Star-Advertiser.

The Latest on President Barack Obama's annual two-week vacation in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Telcom is an equal partner with the seven consortium members involved with the Southeast Asia-U.S. broadband cable under construction, and President and CEO Scott Barber said the company would have the power to veto an attempt by a Chinese company to buy out any of the members in order to protect national security. Pacific Business News.

The state Public Utilities Commission last week blocked an attempt to take a portion of a $150 million financing program, originally intended to help underserved residents get renewable energy, to be used to pay private companies directly. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha has voluntarily placed himself on restrictive duty after receiving a letter informing him that he is the target of a federal grand jury investigation, his attorney confirmed Monday night. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha received a target letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Monday notifying him that he’s a suspect in the ongoing criminal investigation stemming from the theft of his mailbox in 2013. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha will go on restricted duty after receiving a "target letter" from the FBI as part of an ongoing public corruption case. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha received a target letter from the U-S Attorney's office Monday. KITV.

Police chief to place himself, other officers on restricted duty amid federal investigation. KHON2.

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Mayor Kirk Caldwell has returned a bill that tightens rules for private transportation and ride-hailing companies such as Uber and Lyft to the Honolulu City Council unsigned, which means it will now become law. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige says both city and state transportation projects need more from taxpayers, but how that tab is collected is up in the air for now, though he’s committed to making a federal deadline on the rail project coming up this spring. KHON2.

A trampoline that sits in shallow waters off Laie Beach Park, better known as Pounders Beach, has become Oahu's latest hot spot. Hawaii News Now.

For the past several weeks, residents in Moiliili have complained about the dust from the demolition of the University Square building on King Street. Developers are razing the 59-year-old complex to make way for a 14-story, student housing project. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Diamond Head Slopes Are Absolutely Trashed. New photos from the state depict the squalid conditions encountered in homeless encampments during recent sweeps. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The executive director of the Thirty Meter Telescope said Monday that the TMT International Observatory board is closing in on the execution of a backup agreement to allow construction of the $1.4 billion project on a mountain in the Canary Islands  if permission cannot be obtained to build on Mauna Kea by the spring of 2018. Star-Advertiser.

TMT International Observatory could seek another partner to finance its next-generation telescope once it knows where it’s going to be built, its executive director said Monday. Tribune-Herald.

The chief of the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project faced hours of questioning Monday during the state Board of Land and Natural Resources Conservation District Use Application contested case hearing in Hilo. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative is moving forward with its attempt to split off Hawaii island from the Hawaiian Electric Industries umbrella to become a cooperative similar to the one on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii energy co-op moves closer to possible utility takeover. Pacific Business News.

Huena Power Inc., the company whose complaint was rejected by state regulators this week regarding planned geothermal energy expansion on the Big Island, is not ruling out further legal action, a company executive confirmed to Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim is aware of the environmental concerns being raised in Keuakaha and Pana’ewa, and shared a sympathetic view of the situation in a recent interview. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Several cases of mumps were recently detected at separate schools in the Baldwin-King Kekaulike-Maui Complex Area. Maui Watch.

Pono Life Sciences Maui, LLC, one of two marijuana dispensaries approved for operation in Maui County, showcased its cannabis education center in Kahului over the weekend. Maui Now.

The last field is harvested, the last of the cane processed and the last ship with sugar in the hold has set sail for California. Maui News.

Kauai

Hoping to spur a resolution of a years-long dispute over stream water in West Kauai, the state Agribusiness Development Corporation approved a five-year lease to the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative for its Puu Opae hydropower project. Civil Beat.

Maile Alfiler was promoted to member services manager for Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Ige administration may nix union's call for more pay hikes, schools to get more money, Obama family enjoys Hawaii vacation, new trial mulled for special agent Deedy, electric rate hike for Oahu, Abercrombie weighs in on Maui innkeeper, DOT neglects right-turn lanes in highway construction plans, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Elevated rail construction, courtesy Lance Luke

Honolulu leaders say they’re determined to find a way to build their “Plan A” — a nearly $10 billion elevated transit line that runs all the way to Ala Moana Center — despite the giant budget obstacles that still block that goal. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige says he again wants to invest a large portion of next year’s state budget in public education through funding that would be disbursed at the school level. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige’s administration has made a series of closed-door presentations to the public worker unions in recent months warning that the state’s record-setting $1 billion budget surplus is essentially spent, a message apparently meant to tamp down expectations as the unions negotiate for new contracts and raises. Star-Advertiser.

The first family’s Christmas vacation is well underway here in Hawaii, and on Sunday morning, the president, the first lady and friends visited Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens in Kaneohe. KITV.

The latest on President Barack Obama's annual two-week vacation in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Every holiday that President Barack Obama and his family have spent on Oahu, a group of protesters has gathered to greet them. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court is getting closer to deciding if Special Agent Christopher Deedy can be tried a third time for the death of Kollin Elderts. Civil Beat.

Blue Startups, a Honolulu-based startup support program, said it will bring investors managing more than $1 billion to Hawaii in January. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu customers could face an $8 increase in their electrical bills if Hawaiian Electric Co.’s request for a 6.9 percent raise in rates is approved. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is proposing to raise rates by nearly 7 percent, which would be the first increase in base rates on Oahu in nearly six years, the utility said Friday. Pacific Business News.

A political action committee that sought to defeat Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s re-election bid is accruing daily fines because it has not filed a campaign financing report. Star-Advertiser.

New regulations aimed at bolstering privacy at homeless shelters and moving clients into permanent housing more quickly are forcing a Waipahu shelter to close its doors, officials said Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Take a tour around the $1 billion Park Lane Ala Moana luxury condominium project construction site at Honolulu’s Ala Moana Center and you’ll quickly notice that it’s something you’ve never seen before in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Riki May Amano, hearings officer for the Thirty Meter Telescope’s contested case, denied a request Friday to put the process on hold following a recent ruling on the project’s sublease. Tribune-Herald.

A site-specific Environmental Radiation Monitoring Plan has been finalized for the Pohakuloa Training Area. Big Island Video News.

Impacts to historic sites caused by construction along Queen Kaahumanu Highway were the result of a failure to account for right-turn lanes associated with the project. West Hawaii Today.

Continuing to foster a strong relationship between police officers and the community will remain at the forefront for Assistant Chief Mitchell Kanehailua as he leads West Hawaii’s men and women in blue. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo says efforts to improve four-year graduation rates are beginning to pay off. Tribune-Herald.

The right to operate an outdated Hilo waterfront hotel is headed for public auction early next year in the wake of disagreements over a land lease and misuse of the property that became the Pagoda Hilo Bay Hotel in February. Star-Advertiser.

A new assisted-living facility for elderly residents is planned for Hilo along Highway 11 (Kanoelehua Avenue) at its intersection with East Kahaopea Street, where a greenhouse once existed. Tribune-Herald.

In search of answers to the semi-slug: Researchers track carrier of rat lungworm parasite. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Former Gov. Neil Abercrombie wrote a letter in support of Paia businessman Michael Baskin’s request for a special use permit to operate the Paia Inn, a nine-bedroom transient vacation, at 93 Hana Highway. Maui News.

A ban on disposable polystyrene food service containers moved closer to reality Friday as the Maui County Council approved a bill on first reading to restrict the use and sale of the containers in the county. Maui News.

Restaurants in Maui County would have to pack food in eco-friendly containers free of plastic foam under a measure that could be approved early next year. Associated Press.

One of Hawaii’s eight medical marijuana dispensary licensees announced Sunday that it has opened an educational center as it waits for the “green light” from the state to begin dispensary operations. Star-Advertiser.

For four years the world’s largest digital camera has been quietly snapping pictures of the nighttime sky above Maui, capturing images of all the stars, planets, galaxies and other celestial bodies above three-quarters of Earth. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education announced that Hāna High & Elementary School in East Maui will be closed tomorrow, Monday, Dec. 19, 2016, due to a lack of water in the area. Maui Now.

Now, sugar really is gone. On Friday, the same day that Puunene Mill smokestacks stopped puffing, the last shipment of Maui-made sugar was carried out of Kahului Harbor. Maui News.

Kauai

Public is asked to help plan the future of the bus system. Garden Island.

The island saw record lows in crimes involves property, burglary, larceny- theft and motor vehicles, according to the Crime in Hawaii 2015 report, which was released by the Hawaii Crime Prevention and and Justice Assistance Division earlier this month. Garden Island.

Avian malaria is a threat to many of Kauai’s native and endangered birds, and an ongoing study of the way they adapt to disease could lead to ways to rehabilitate some species. Garden Island.

The Kalalau Trail and Napali Coast State Wilderness Park will be closed to day hikers from Monday through Wednesday for a rockfall mitigation project (weather permitting), according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Garden Island.

Hundreds gather at Lydgate Park to honor Tim Bynum. Garden Island.

Unemployment hits low 3%, judge rules against Thirty Meter Telescope lease, more Honolulu rail delays, EPA seeks $5M fines against Syngenta, Maui to revisit big salary hikes, lawmakers question rape test kit backlog, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Shoppers in Waikiki © 2016 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s unemployment rate fell for the fourth straight month and hit 3 percent in November, the lowest level since October 2007, according to data released Thursday by the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Star-Advertiser.

The state's labor department says Hawaii's unemployment rate fell to a nine-year-low of 3 percent last month. Associated Press.

Three months ago Gov. David Ige told attendees at an international conference on conservation that he would like to see Hawaii double its food production by the year 2020. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers were briefed today on the status of sexual assault kits that have not been tested and county plans to resolve the backlogs. Hawaii Public Radio.

With President Barack Obama set to arrive Friday for vacation on Oahu, the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council is making another push for his administration to ease the anticipated impacts of the newly expanded Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument on Hawaii’s $100 million commercial fishing industry. Civil Beat.

Mounting legal costs and allegations of wasteful spending are being lobbed by both sides of a bitterly divided Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and some say the Hawaiian community is paying the price. KHON2.

Hawaii is launching several new projects and implementing new rules aimed at addressing concerns about pesticide exposure. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu’s rail system could face further delays if Hitachi Rail Italy can’t fix a newly discovered glitch in its train cars before tests scheduled to start next year, project officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell made a surprise visit to the board of directors of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on Thursday and cautioned that “there will be more problems” in the city’s troubled 20-mile, 21-station rail project. Civil Beat.

A former Honolulu police officer plans to plead guilty Friday to felony conspiracy. Niall Silva is one of the officers recently named in a civil lawsuit filed by Gerard Puana against Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine, a city deputy prosecutor and Puana’s niece. KHON2.

In newly-released court records, a federal prosecutor indicates the police chief's wife, Katherine Kealoha, was deeply involved in an effort to frame her uncle by faking the theft of her mailbox. Hawaii News Now.

Last month’s sewage spill near Ko Olina may have gone undetected for a full day before city officials responded. KHON2.

Kerzner International's first Atlantis resort in the United States is coming to the 642-acre Ko Olina Resort in West Oahu and will include a total of 1,324 hotel rooms and luxury residences, an aquarium, a wedding chapel and a water park. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A Hilo Circuit Court judge on Thursday overturned the state’s approval of the Thirty Meter Telescope’s sublease for Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

A Circuit Court judge ruled Thursday that the state Board of Land and Natural Resources should have held a contested case hearing before it consented to a sublease between the University of Hawaii at Hilo and the Thirty Meter Telescope. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s approval of a sublease between the University of Hawai’i and the Thirty Meter Telescope has been thrown out in court. Big Island Video News.

The land board is waiting on the Banyan Drive Hawaii Redevelopment Agency before it decides what to do with the Pagoda property. Here is what new mayor Harry Kim says about the agency and the Banyan Drive situation. Big Island Video News.

Six County Council members have dipped into contingency funds to help pay for an overhaul of the Fire Department’s primary West Hawaii rescue boat. West Hawaii Today.

A conservation story nearly two decades in the making entered its latest chapter Wednesday with the release of five young ‘alala into the wild. Tribune-Herald.

When Kona Brewing Co. opens its new facility in 2018, the brewery won’t only dramatically increase its capacity to brew more beer, it’ll also include new features designed to reduce waste and improve efficiency. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Salary Commission will meet Dec. 23 for a special meeting to once again take up pay raises for Mayor Alan Arakawa and top appointees in his administration. Maui News.

A Maui County Council committee is calling for ending a parking lot concession on county property in Lahaina by the Friends of Moku’ula, questioning the group’s financial management and its responsiveness to community and council inquiries. Maui News.

The permitting process for the next phase of the Lahaina bypass, from the Olowalu landfill to Hokiokio Place, continues to move forward as the project’s construction date approaches next month. Maui News.

A tentative agreement has been reached for Maui County to pay $9.5 million for Wailuku Water Co.’s ditch system and 8,764 acres of its West Maui Mountains watershed lands. Maui News.

Eight hours of face-to-face deliberations between officials and supporters of the Maui Veterans Cemetery and the Makawao Cemetery Association on Tuesday appear to have resolved a dispute that at times has led to a contentious relationship between neighbors over the past few years. Maui News.

Kauai

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is suing a Kauai seed company over the protection of agricultural workers at its crop research farm in connection with a medical emergency in January when 10 people were treated at a hospital. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday filed a complaint alleging that Syngenta Kauai violated “numerous federal pesticide regulations” meant to protect agricultural workers at its crop research farm in Kekaha. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is seeking nearly $5 million in fines against a unit of the Swiss chemical giant Syngenta for the company’s alleged violations of pesticide regulations in Hawaii. Associated Press.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is suing Syngenta Seeds over an incident early this year on Kauai. Garden Island.

The Wailua Golf Course will soon be able to sell alcohol to players on the links. The Kauai County Council on Wednesday voted 6-1 to pass Bill No. 2635 allows the sale of alcohol via roving concessions. Garden Island.

Obama family to arrive this weekend, agencies announce pesticide protection plan, Hawaii County restricts alcohol expenditures, new lawsuit against Honolulu police chief, Maui's first medical marijuana dispensary, successful missile test off Kauai, crickets as food, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Moana Center © 2016 All Hawaii News

Ala Moana Center plans to spend $4 million to replace existing railings throughout the Honolulu shopping mall after a railing gave way near the Hookipa Terrace on the mall's fourth floor two months ago, killing one man and critically injuring another, Pacific Business News has learned.

New worker protection standards, tripling the cost to register pesticides and better data collection are just a few of the projects being launched by the state to address restricted-use pesticide exposure. Garden Island.

Hawaii Says Its New Plan Should Allay Concerns About Pesticides. The Agriculture and Health departments say they’ll gather more data, improve emergency responses and communicate better with public. Civil Beat.

The state departments of Agriculture and Health are embarking on a series of initiatives to address concerns about pesticide exposure in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Surface water on Oahu and Kauai will be tested for pesticides in a $500,000 study as a way to address ongoing concerns about restricted-use pesticide exposure, state officials said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

President Obama and the first family will be spending the holidays in Hawaii. According to the White House, they leave Washington, D.C. for Honolulu on Friday, Dec. 16. KHON2.

Hawaii’s four Democratic electors have joined a movement asking for information about possible Russian hacking during the presidential election, calling on President Barack Obama to release a CIA report on the topic. Associated Press.

The four people in Hawaii tasked with casting the state’s Electoral College votes have asked President Barack Obama to release to electors the CIA report on Russia’s computer hacking designed to influence the presidential election. Civil Beat.

The uninsured rate in Hawaii has dropped by 49 percent since the Affordable Care Act was enacted in 2010, with 54,000 residents gaining coverage over the last six years, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is the healthiest state in the nation for the fifth year in a row, according to the United Health Foundation’s 2016 report. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige on Wednesday reiterated his commitment to cancer research at a summit of the Hawaii Comprehensive Cancer Coalition, which has set a five-year goal to promote prevention, early detection, equitable access to care, and quality of life for cancer survivors through a public health campaign. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii regulators have shot down a request by an alliance of solar energy industry trade groups to increase the cap on one of the options for installing rooftop solar that replaced net energy metering, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

GoDaddy Inc., the world’s largest internet domain registrar known for its edgy Super Bowl commercials, has been cleared to start doing business in Hawaii, Pacific Business News has learned.

Oahu
A federal civil lawsuit filed Wednesday alleges the police chief, his deputy prosecutor wife and several police officers are guilty of engaging in a "pattern of racketeering" and conspiring with others at the Honolulu Police Department. Hawaii News Now.

Gerard Puana filed Wednesday a second civil complaint against his niece, city Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, the wife of ­Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha, naming the chief and five Honolulu police officers. Star-Advertiser.

Gerard Puana, the man once accused of stealing Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha’s mailbox, filed a lawsuit in federal court Wednesday saying he was the victim of abusive police tactics and malicious prosecution stemming from a family fight over money. Civil Beat.

City tax assessments rise, Waianae coast sees double digits. KITV.

Board directors at public isle companies are paid well for expertise, experience. Star-Advertiser.

State officials say they’re working to figure out what to do with possible skeletal remains found at a beach along Oahu’s North Shore. Associated Press.

Rolloffs Hawaii LLC, a major Hawaii commercial refuse and recycling firm that has been struggling financially, will be sold at a court auction early next year in an effort to keep the business running. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County administration has overturned a 17-year-old policy and instituted strict new rules governing the purchase of alcohol with taxpayer money. West Hawaii Today.

A proposed Hawaii Electric Light Co. rate increase triggered biting comments from the public about the power company’s performance during a state Public Utilities Commission meeting Tuesday evening. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. wants customers to pay more for electricity, but several ratepayers in West Hawaii are having none of it. West Hawaii Today.

A company that wants to import biofuel through Hilo Harbor plans to resume refurbishing storage tanks at a former asphalt plant by February, its founder said. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Wellness Group, doing business as Maui Grown Therapies, announced Wednesday its first medical marijuana dispensary location in the Maui Lani Village Center at 44 Paa St. in Kahului. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Grown Therapies today announced its first medical cannabis dispensary is located in the Maui Lani Village Center at 44 Paʻa Street in Kahului.  The dispensary joins other medical, professional and retail businesses in the Professional Row section of the commercial development. Maui Now.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa has announced plans that could lead to the county purchasing property and infrastructure owned by Wailuku Water Company. Hawaii News Now.

The Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday unanimously denied Paia businessman Michael Baskin a special use permit to operate his nine-bedroom transient vacation rental, the Paia Inn. Maui News.

Maui County officials have denied a special-use permit to the owner of a short-term rental property who was hit with a half-million dollar fine last year as part of a settlement involving 30 alleged permit violations. Associated Press.

Sugar might still have a chance at surviving at the 36,000-acre Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. plantation on Maui — at least in a much smaller capacity, the head of its parent company told Pacific Business News.

Growing Maui’s farm-to-table cattle industry is among the chief projects of Alexander & Baldwin as its 36,000-acre sugar plantation folds at the end of this year. Maui News.

Kauai

For Councilwoman JoAnn Yukimura, whether the council repeals its GMO bill, the issues it raised will not go away. Garden Island.

The Missile Defense Agency and Navy continued testing the versatility of the SM-6 missile with a salvo of two missiles fired at a ballistic missile target in the “terminal” or final phase of flight early this morning off Pacific Missile Range Facility. Star-Advertiser.

The Missile Defense Agency and sailors aboard USS John Paul Jones, an Aegis baseline 9.C1 equipped destroyer, on Wednesday successfully fired a salvo of two SM-6 Dual I missiles against a complex, medium-range ballistic missile target, demonstrating defensive capability and meeting the test’s primary objective. Garden Island.

The first round of several meetings addressing options for management of the newly expanded Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument came to Kauai Tuesday night. Garden Island.

Kauai County plans to develop a 550-unit affordable housing project in Eleele on the westside of the island, according to public documents. Pacific Business News.

Two entrepreneurs are working to open an eatery on Kauai that offers customers healthy food options, with a focus on crickets as a main protein source. Associated Press.