Thursday, November 9, 2017

Honolulu jail site selected, Office of Hawaiian Affairs sues state over Mauna Kea management, Kealoha judge wants proof they can't afford lawyer, Sen. Kim announces congressional bid, high cost to retrofit high-rise sprinklers, more news from all the Hawaiian islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Concertina wire over Hawaii jail © 2017 All Hawaii News
Animal Quarantine Station site marked for new Oahu jail. The preferred location for Oahu’s new jail is the Animal Quarantine Station site in Halawa Valley, and the latest cost estimate for the project is $525 million, according to the project’s draft environmental impact statement. Star-Advertiser.

‘Preferred’ Jail Site Currently Houses Animal Quarantine Station. The Halawa Valley project’s $525 million price tag includes $17.5 million for a new quarantine facility. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reveals preferred location for new Oahu jail. An underused animal quarantine facility near the confluence of two freeways on Oahu is the state of Hawaii’s preferred site for Honolulu’s new jail, a $525 million project that would replace the aging and overcrowded Oahu Community Correctional Center. Pacific Business News.

OCCC Relocation: $525M. The state reached a major decision-point in its plan to replace the outdated Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

State selects Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa as preferred location for OCCC. Gov. David Ige announced on Wednesday that his administration has selected the Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa as the preferred site for the relocation of the Oahu Community Correctional Center. KITV.

Construction at Halawa prison stirs up rats. Recent construction work at Halawa Correctional Facility has stirred up the rat population at the state’s largest prison, but Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda says the department has contracted with exterminators who have the situation under control. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Why Gov. Ige’s Secret Talks With Airbnb Have So Many People Upset. A backlash is brewing against a potential deal for the company to collect Hawaii taxes — in part, because no one knows what’s in the agreement. Civil Beat.

Donna Mercado Kim enters race for US Congress. Veteran State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim is making another run for U.S. Congress. Hawaii News Now.

Attack Warning Siren Tests Begin in December. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency will begin testing its Attack Warning Signal or “Wailing Tone” next month as they continue preparedness and consequence management plans related to potential attack scenarios. Maui Now.

Judge ‘troubled’ as Island Air seeks cash infusion. Bankruptcy Judge Robert Faris expressed concern Wednesday about Island Air’s dire financial condition and gave the company a one-week extension to use its cash and provide more evidence of its financial situation before he decides how to proceed with the case. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ballard names 2 HPD captains as her top deputies. Honolulu Police Chief Susan Ballard has named HPD captains John McCarthy and Jonathon Grems as her two deputy chiefs. Star-Advertiser.

Attorneys ask to be removed from case; Kealohas to file financial disclosures. A federal judge has continued a hearing to Thursday morning on whether the attorneys representing Louis and Katherine Kealoha should be removed from the couple’s high-profile public corruption case. Star-Advertiser.

Judge To Kealohas: Show Me Your Finances. A federal judge says he won’t consider taxpayer-funded attorneys for the former Honolulu chief and his prosecutor wife until he verifies their financial situation. Civil Beat.

Kealohas claim they can't afford attorneys; judge says prove it. The Kealohas will have to turn over financial information before a U.S. District Court Judge will order taxpayer-funded attorneys for the couple fighting a 20-count federal indictment. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Rail costs cast shadow over Blaisdell plan. As the plan to make over the Neal S. Blaisdell Center moves ahead, one prominent state lawmaker continues to question whether the city should tackle that nearly $700 million endeavor before it finishes funding rail. Star-Advertiser.

Bringing the Blaisdell Center into the 21st century could cost $530M. Community members had their third and final opportunity to weigh in on the future of the Neal S. Blaisdell Center on Wednesday evening. Hawaii News Now.

City holds final public workshop on Blaisdell Center Master Plan. KHON2.

=====

Fire safety panel recommends retrofitting sprinklers in 150 older Honolulu buildings. Five months after the deadly fire at the Marco Polo Building, an advisory committee formed in response to the tragedy is making a recommendation to the Honolulu City Council. KITV.

Here's what it would cost to retrofit high-rises with fire sprinklers. A residential fire safety panel led by Honolulu Fire Chief Manuel Neves is recommending that only older residential high-rises with interior hallways should be required to install automatic fire sprinklers. Hawaii News Now.

New report whittles down older high-rises in need of new sprinkler systems. In the wake of the deadly Marco Polo fire, the mayor called for older residential high-rises to be retrofitted with sprinklers. KHON2.

=====

North Shore safety, traffic frustrations continue with solutions overturned, unenforced. The bottleneck on Kamehameha Highway near Laniakea Beach has long been a source of frustration for Oahu’s North Shore residents. KHON2.

Leader of Kakaako development agency resigning. Jesse Souki, head of the Hawaii Community Development Authority, notified the agency’s board and staff last week that he is stepping down Nov. 30 after one year on the job. Star-Advertiser.

NRG Energy seeks $350M in financing to build solar farms in Hawaii. NRG Energy acquired the three solar farm projects from bankrupt SunEdison last November. Pacific Business News.

Cat sterilization non-profit seeks new home after losing lease. After seven years, the non-profit CatFriends lost the lease for their facility in Kalihi. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

OHA sues UH over Mauna Kea; Attorney says agency willing to work with DLNR on new management structure. In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in Honolulu Circuit Court, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is alleging the University of Hawaii is in violation of its general lease for the Mauna Kea Science Reserve and asks for the agreement to be cancelled. Tribune-Herald.

OHA sues to end UH’s stewardship of Mauna Kea summit. After threatening to go to court for months, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs finally pulled the trigger, accusing the University of Hawaii of aggressively developing the Mauna Kea summit for astronomy at the expense of its environment and cultural significance. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Sues State, UH Over ‘Longstanding Mismanagement’ Of Mauna Kea. The legal action follows a ruling allowing the Thirty Meter Telescope project to go forward on a mountain considered deeply sacred by many Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says it is moving forward with its lawsuit over the management of Mauna Kea. Big Island Video News.

OHA: State incapable of giving Mauna Kea 'level of aloha' it deserves. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is suing the state, claiming "longstanding and well-documented mismanagement" of Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now.

OHA sues state over management of Mauna Kea. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against the state and the University of Hawaii for what the group calls the "longstanding and well-documented mismanagement of Mauna Kea." KITV.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs sues state, University of Hawaii over Mauna Kea. The state Office of Hawaiian Affairs is suing the state of Hawaii and the University of Hawaii for what it calls “their longstanding and well-documented mismanagement of Mauna Kea,” and seeks to terminate the university’s lease of the land on the mountain, which is home to a dozen observatories. Pacific Business News.

University Of Hawaii, State Respond To OHA Mauna Kea Lawsuit. Big Island Video News.

Memorial service, music program mark 100th anniversary of Liliuokalani’s death. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Navy expands zone limiting sonar testing around county. The U.S. Navy has expanded its no-sonar-testing zone around Maui County by about 50 percent, according to its latest draft environmental impact statement for personnel and weapons systems training between Hawaii and California, officials said Tuesday. Maui News.

Liquor department faces new gripes. Boys & Girls Clubs ‘Little Chefs’ not allowed with ‘Big Chefs,’ to receive awards on stage; no alcohol allowed at VFW luau. Maui News.

Man On Trans-Pacific Voyage In Ocean Rowboat Rescued Off Maui. He was headed from California to China aboard an 18-foot vessel, according to the Coast Guard. Civil Beat.

Progress made in converting old sugar cane lands. Half of company’s 36,000 acres may be leased more quickly than expected – A&B. Maui News.

Maui home sales jump 35% in October as prices rise. Home sales on Maui increased by more than 35 percent in October, when compared to the same month last year, while median prices rose for both single-family homes and condominiums, according to statistics released by the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Sammy Hagar Lists Haiku Oceanfront Retreat for $3.3M. Maui Now.

Kauai

Navy outlines plans for future activity. Weapons and whales came head to head in Lihue Wednesday afternoon as the U.S. Navy presented its newest evaluation of the impacts training and testing activities have on the environment. Garden Island.

Housing, safety at forefront of county requests. On Wednesday, the county committee meeting began dialogue regarding the priorities for formulating the 2018 Kauai County Legislative Package. Garden Island.

Fat and molting, Kauai’s yearling Hawaiian Monk Seal RH38 has returned to Kauai waters after spending two months at Ke Kai Ola, a dedicated Marine Mammal Center hospital for monk seals on Hawaii Island. Garden Island.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Hawaiian Telcom to be sold; Kealoha attorneys want out; Big Island, Maui bomb training could resume, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Old Hawaiian Telcom building in Hilo © 2017 All Hawaii News
Hawaiian Telcom shareholders approve sale. The state’s largest technology and telecommunications company received overwhelming approval Tuesday morning from its shareholders to be acquired by Cincinnati Bell. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Telcom's shareholders have approved a $650 million cash-and-stock sale to Cincinnati Bell. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Telcom shareholders vote in favor of acquisition by Cincinnati Bell. Hawaiian Telcom’s shareholders voted in favor of the company’s acquisition by Cincinnati Bell during a special meeting on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

=====

Attack warning siren tests will begin next month. Hawaii, one of the first states to initiate a nuclear preparedness campaign, was previously depicted as a target by North Korea, and Oahu is home to the Navy’s U.S. Pacific Command. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii joins state coalition calling for taxation of out-of-state online retailers. Pacific Business News.

Medical Tourism: Not Ready For Prime Time? The first-ever Pacific Regenerative Medical Conference in Honolulu conducted a panel discussion today to explore ways to attract visitors to the islands for healing and medical cures. Hawaii Public Radio.

New online tool monitors students’ progress. A new online tool launched Tuesday allows easy tracking of how Hawaii’s public school students are faring on various measures that are in the state’s strategic plan for education. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs announced Tuesday that the status of new and existing vocational licenses is now searchable online. Star-Advertiser.

Rat lungworm on agenda. The state Department of Health has been working with the Governor’s Joint Task Force on Rat Lungworm Disease to better provide widespread education about the risks associated with this debilitating disease and how to prevent it, as well as address issues around diagnosis and treatment. Garden Island.

United Airlines bids farewell to 747s by re-creating its first Honolulu flight. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai ranch sale helps Alexander & Baldwin turn a profit. Selling 566 acres of land on Kauai and Maui helped Alexander & Baldwin Inc. earn $6.6 million in the third quarter and reverse a year- earlier $1.4 million loss that included heavy costs to close Hawaii’s last sugar cane plantation. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kealoha Attorneys Want Out Of Police Corruption Case. The three defense attorneys say the Kealohas can’t afford to pay them. Civil Beat.

Attorneys for Kealohas ask to be removed from case. The three attorneys for Louis and Katherine Kealoha want permission from a federal judge to be removed as legal counsel for the high-profile couple in the public corruption case that’s led to the indictments of the retired police chief, his wife the deputy city prosecutor, and four other current or former Honolulu Police Department officers. Star-Advertiser.

Kealoha attorneys dump case, say couple can't afford them for defense. All three attorneys representing former Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife are seeking to withdraw from a public corruption case focused on the couple, saying the two can't afford to pay them for their defense. Hawaii News Now.

Attorneys file motion to withdraw as counsel, Kealohas ‘can no longer fund a defense’. The three attorneys representing Louis and Katherine Kealoha have filed to remove themselves from the case. KHON2.

The Case Against Katherine Kealoha Just Keeps Getting Worse. A new FBI report says the now-indicted prosecutor leaned on a witness to help cover up alleged criminal activity in a private guardianship case. Civil Beat.

=====

Steps taken to reduce crime in Waikiki, Chinatown, but glaring disparity remains. Waikiki and Chinatown are neighborhoods that serve very different purposes and attract different crowds. KHON2.

Par Pacific Holdings Inc., the owner of Kapolei-based oil refinery Par Hawaii, on Monday reported net income of $18.8 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, for the quarter ended Sept. 30, compared to a net loss of $27.8 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, for the same quarter in 2016. Pacific Business News.

Oahu residents have one more chance to offer up opinions on the city’s draft Neal S. Blaisdell Center Master Plan at a meeting at 6 p.m. tonight at the Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall Pikake Room. Star-Advertiser.

Is Ala Moana The New Kakaako? A lot of new developments are planned for the neighborhood, making some residents worry about whether they’ll be priced out. Civil Beat.

Waianae homeless without water nearby.  The state shuts down access to widely-used Waianae water spigots, leaving nearby homeless residents high and dry. Those taps will remain turned off, until the end of the year. KITV.

Coast Guard officials are still working on a plan to salvage a 79-foot fishing boat that’s been stranded on a reef off Waikiki’s Kaimana Beach for almost a month, even as people endanger themselves by sneaking onto the leaking wreckage at night. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The U.S. Navy wants to resume deploying sonar and explosives around the Big Island and Maui where it cut back after a 2015 lawsuit. West Hawaii Today.

Jobie Masagatani, the Chair of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, joined Governor David Ige for a Facebook livestream on Tuesday. One of the topics of discussion was the Subsistence Agricultural Homestead Community being planned for Honomū. Big Island Video News.

Someone removed a large concrete barricade and broke through a fence to access the closed Hakalau Beach Park, according to the Hawaii County Department of Public Works. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island bus ridership down big over 4 years, experts say. Associated Press.

The County of Hawaii’s Mass Transit Agency held its final in a series of Transit Master Plan community meetings at the Aupuni Center Conference Room in Hilo on Monday night. Big Island Video News.

CVS Health is moving its Longs Drugs store in Keaau to a new space in the Big Island town, which is being built on the five-acre site of the former open-air Keaau Village Market. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Water testing program expands to South Maui.  Hui O Ka Wai Ola, a volunteer-based water quality testing program, has expanded to South Maui and will be measuring ocean clarity and nutrients on South Maui’s shores, the group announced. Maui News.

Open House on the Future of Honolua Bay and Lipoa Point, Nov. 8. The open house will provide an opportunity for the community and area residents to learn about the planning process, view informational exhibits and contribute their ideas at their own pace. Maui Now.

Tourism industry plan calls for improvements. The visitor industry lobbying for infrastructure improvements and improving communication between industry officials and cultural practitioners and residents are some actions suggested in a new tourism industry strategic plan for 2017 to 2026. Maui News.

Puunene Shopping Center filling up. Planet Fitness, Massage Envy and Ulta Beauty to open outlets on Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

County checking on alleged zoning violations. Mason Chock, County Council Planning Committee chair, said he was asked to look into a situation where a restaurateur was being charged several thousand dollars per month for parking by its hotel and timeshare counterpart for visiting patrons. Garden Island.

Wilcox Medical Center unveiled its new simulation lab on Monday with a blessing ceremony and tours for invited guests, physicians and staff. Garden Island.

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Navy holds first Hawaii hearing on missile test proposal, Honolulu police begin bodycam testing, Hagar selling Maui estate, Big Island bus ridership drops 30%, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block 1B interceptor missile is launched from the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) during a Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Navy test in the mid-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo)
Some seek to block Navy's bid to continue training in Hawaii waters. In a public meeting Monday evening at the Oahu Veterans Center, the community had a chance to weigh in on the Navy's Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Hawaii News Now.

Environmental and cultural concerns expressed over proposed US Navy training exercises. The US Navy officials hosted the first of several public meetings in Hawaii regarding its Environmental Impact Statement on testing and training operations in the waters off Hawaii and Southern California. KITV.

A rare joint exercise of three U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups — a combination wielding massive firepower — will occur in coming days in the Western Pacific as part of a pressure campaign on North Korea by the Trump administration. Star-Advertiser.

Nuclear shelter-in-place plan could keep parents, students separated for days. As nuclear rhetoric and missile tests continue from North Korea, Hawaii emergency officials say be ready to “Get inside, stay inside, and stay tuned.” KHON2.

=====

Two months after U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa announced her plans to run for governor, candidates looking to fill her seat in Congress are starting to emerge. Star-Advertiser.

Events to mark 100th anniversary of the death of Hawaii’s last monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. Hundreds of churches around the state are expected to toll their bells 100 times at 8:30 a.m. — the time of day Liliuokalani died on Nov. 11, 1917. Star-Advertiser.

Ancient Hawaiian Tradition Threatened by Invasive Bug. The hala or pandanus tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and is characterized by its long, sharp and spiny leaves. Those trees are now being attacked by an invasive predator. And the cultural practitioners whose traditions depend on hala are feeling the impact. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Seventy-seven Honolulu police officers Monday began testing body-worn cameras in a 30-day pilot project, making the Honolulu Police Department the last in the state to use the cameras. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Officers Begin Testing Body Cameras. HPD has outfitted dozens of officers with the technology as part of a 30-day pilot program. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Department started testing body cameras Monday. KITV.

Criminal Case Against Kealohas Puts Brakes On Uncle’s Suit. The lawsuit filed by Gerard Puana will have to wait while the case against his niece and her husband continues, a judge rules. Civil Beat.

Defense attorneys in Kealoha corruption probe face heat over questionable practices. Legal experts say questions surrounding the attorneys for the former police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife are extremely troubling. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Waialua sunflower farm to hold open house. DuPont Pioneer, which recently merged with the Dow Chemical Co., held a media tour Monday at its 2,000-acre Waialua property, one of Hawaii’s largest farms. Star-Advertiser.

Waimanalo Tent-Dwellers: A Different Kind Of Homelessness. People living in a roadside encampment receive an unusual amount of community support, because many of them are longtime residents. Civil Beat.

Carbon monoxide poisoning linked to 2 Marco Polo deaths. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home prices creep higher. For single-family houses, October’s median sale price edged up 1.3 percent to $752,000 from $742,000 in the same month last year. Star-Advertiser.

Home sales on Oahu saw a “healthy uptick” in the number of sales in October, compared to the same month last year, as the median price of a single-family home and condominium nudged up slightly, according to a report by Honolulu-based real estate firm Locations LLC. Pacific Business News.

Ward Village condo sales aid developer’s profit. Howard Hughes Corp. earned $27 million from condominium sales at Ward Village in the third quarter, according to a financial report the company published Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has sold nearly 90 percent of the 1,381 condominium units the developer is building at its Ward Village community in Honolulu and last month repaid a $195.3 million construction loan on the Waiea and Anaha towers there, the company said Monday in its third quarter earnings report. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

House Finance Committee checks in on state investments in West Hawaii. Members of the state House of Representatives Finance Committee were in town Monday to take a closer look at some of the projects they’ve recently funded throughout West Hawaii, including the major overhaul at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island bus ridership has dropped by almost a third over the past four years, mostly due to unreliability of an aging fleet, consultants said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Talks Vacation Rental Rules. Local and state lawmakers discussed possible regulations for the growing vacation rental industry during last week's county council committee meeting. Big Island Video News.

Demolition of Uncle Billy's Pagoda Hotel uncertain. A hotel sitting vacant in Hilo will remain that way for at least the near future. Hawaii News Now.

October home sales soar on Hawaii's Big Island. Home sales on Hawaii’s Big Island soared in October, with increases of more than 25 percent from a year ago for both single-family homes and condominiums, but the median price of a condo fell by more than 25 percent, according to data provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Cyanotech earns $475K in second quarter. Hawaii island microalgae producer Cyanotech Corp. more than quadrupled its fiscal second-quarter profit in large part through a $900,000 reduction in legal fees. Star-Advertiser.

Maui


Victorino to run for mayor. Former Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino officially announced his intention on Monday to run for mayor in what is shaping up to be a competitive battle in 2018 to succeed Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

Kaanapali development met with resistance from Maui residents. Hundreds of people packed Lahaina Intermediate School Monday night to question the landowners and developers behind the Kaanapali Golf Courses Revitalization Project. Hawaii News Now.

Puunene Shopping Center filling up. Planet Fitness, Massage Envy and Ulta Beauty to open outlets on Maui. More retailers are flocking to the Puunene Shopping Center with pet store Petco opening its doors Monday and farm-to-table restaurant Fork & Salad slated to open early next year. Maui News.

Rocker Sammy Hagar is selling the 10-acre Maui estate he bought more than 20 years ago after searching for a place to relax in Hawaii following a world tour with Van Halen. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

KIUC issues request for qualifications for solar-hydro project on Kauai's west side. The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative last week issued a request for qualifications for its Puu Opae Energy Project on the Garden Isle's west side. Pacific Business News.

Kauai condo sales nearly double in October, median prices up by double digits. The number of condominiums sold on Kauai in October nearly doubled, when compared to the same month last year, while sales of single-family homes rose by more than 30 percent and median prices in both categories increased by double digits, according to data provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Kids can earn money, recognition on the floor of the state House of Representatives, and a chance to mingle with legislators through a statewide contest running now through Jan. 31. Garden Island.

Monday, November 6, 2017

Recap of Trump's Hawaii visit, Navy to hold sonar scoping meetings this week, lieutenant governor race gets more crowded, Honolulu police to test body cams, sewage causing Maui reef ills, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo Anthony Quintano of Civil Beat
Trump wears lei in Hawaii PC: Anthony Quintano/Civil Beat
Trump’s Hawaii Visit Inspires Supporters, But More Opponents. A lonely contingent of Honolulu Tea Party members were in a welcoming mood that wasn’t shared by people at a Capitol rally. Civil Beat.

Trump departs Hawaii for Japan after a short but busy visit. While in Hawaii, Trump did spend time talking to Hawaii’s government leaders and top military brass. On Friday, he met with the governors of Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific U.S. territories. Trump and his advisers also attended a Friday briefing at Camp Smith with the commanders of Pacific Air Forces, U.S. Army Pacific, Marine Forces Pacific and other brass. He also got a private briefing later in the day. Star-Advertiser.


President Donald Trump visited one of his Trump-branded properties in Hawaii on Saturday shortly before he was scheduled to depart for Japan amid his 13-day trip to Asia. Politico.

President Donald Trump paid a solemn visit Friday to Pearl Harbor and its memorial to the USS Arizona, a hallowed place he said he had read about, discussed and studied but had never visited until just before opening his first official visit to Asia. Associated Press.

President Donald Trump is naming two of his local campaign supporters, Allen Frenzel and Gigi N. Jones, to oversee much of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s operations in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is quietly putting his political weight behind the re-election campaign of Gov. David Ige in an alliance that appears to have already shifted some key Caldwell campaign staffers into the Ige camp. Star-Advertiser.

Former BOE member running for lieutenant governor. Former Board of Education member Kim Coco Iwamoto announced Sunday she is running for lieutenant governor to bring “courageous, compassionate leadership” to the office and “to set a tone of accountability that we are listening to the people.” Star-Advertiser.

Kim Coco Iwamoto announces bid for Lieutenant Governor. KITV.

The federal government wants to designate critical habitat for the endangered main Hawaiian Islands population of false killer whales. Garden Island.

U.S. Navy Holding Statewide Meetings. Navy officials will be presenting a draft environmental impact statement reevaluating potential impacts associated with ongoing military activities. Including: active sonar use and explosives while employing mitigation measures to protect marine life. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state’s largest health insurer says it has an estimated $20 million a year in “excessive and unnecessary” costs due to nonprofits paying health insurance premiums for patients, some of whom are on dialysis and could be covered by government health plans. Star-Advertiser.

Congressional Crackdown On The Shark Fin Trade. Harvesting shark fins has long been prohibited but loopholes in their sale has allowed an underground trade to continue. Civil Beat.

Upgraded Website Provides Updates on Beach Water Quality. Big Island Now.

New advocacy group aims to put kids first in educational policy. Star-Advertiser.

Quarrel at PUC meeting sparks discussion on conduct. An an unusual use of taxpayer money, the state Public Utilities Commission met Thursday to discuss an argument that broke out between a state worker and an attorney at an informal industry meeting Oct. 11. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Ruth’s Chris restaurants changing ownership. Ruth’s Hospitality Group Inc. said Friday it is acquiring the six Hawaii Ruth’s Chris Steak House locations from franchise partner Desert Island Restaurants for about $35 million. Star-Advertiser.

Ruth’s Hospitality Group Inc. said Friday that it is acquiring six Hawaii Ruth’s Chris Steak House restaurants from franchisee Desert Island Restaurants for approximately $35 million in cash. Pacific Business News.

Real estate firm Coldwell Pacific buys rival. The firm announced Friday that it acquired the Oahu operations of Century 21 All Islands Fine Homes & Estates, which includes four offices and about 150 agents. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Navy is holding a public meeting today as it re-evaluates the environmental impacts of training, research and testing — particularly from sonar and explosive sound effects on marine animals — over a wide swath of ocean between Southern California and the Hawaiian Islands. Star-Advertiser.

HPD to start bodycam pilot program. Honolulu Police Department's body camera pilot program is set to begin Monday following an initial delay. Hawaii News Now.

Explosive Motion Calls For Ouster Of Kealoha Attorneys. The Justice Department claims conflicts of interest should disqualify defense attorneys Myles Breiner and Kevin Sumida. Civil Beat.

Officer Charged In Corruption Case Challenges Police Commission. Minh-Hung “Bobby” Nguyen says the city should be paying for his legal defense against a related lawsuit. Civil Beat.

Missing School Has Become A Huge Problem in Hawaii. A Waianae school, where 40 percent of students are chronically absent, is trying home visits and a partnership with family court to keep kids in class. Civil Beat.

Public comments sought for Blaisdell Center face-lift. City officials are inviting the public to a third and final workshop next week for commenting on a plan to improve Blaisdell Center by renovating some parts and redeveloping other parts of the 53-year-old complex. Star-Advertiser.

Flashing lights, raised curbs among added pedestrian safety improvements in Waimanalo. Hawaii News Now.

'Dear Mayor': Students write letters asking for new lights at North Shore park. KITV.

A large fishing boat that ran aground off Waikiki three weeks ago is again raising concerns about safety. KHON2.

No Water For The Homeless At The Waianae Boat Harbor Camp. A repaving project at the boat harbor has been long planned but no one told homeless campers next door their water was being shut off. Civil Beat.


Home sales on Oahu saw a “healthy uptick” in the number of sales in October, compared to the same month last year, as the median price of a single-family home and condominium nudged up slightly, according to a report by Honolulu-based real estate firm Locations LLC. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Vacation house rules in works: Regulating ‘unhosted’ rentals seen as way to preserve housing for residents. Tribune-Herald.

Kawa revisited: Community groups, county grants in play five years after Lui eviction. West Hawaii Today.

Online auction and sales giant eBay has removed numerous listings advertising the sale of sand purported to be from Hawaii beaches, including iconic Papakolea Beach — also known as Green Sands Beach — after the Tribune-Herald inquired about the sand sales. Tribune-Herald.

State evaluates West Hawaii roads, says 4 miles classify as ‘poor’. On a given day, more than 16,000 cars come along this road, bringing travelers along the Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor as it winds its way along the slopes of Hualalai through towns like Kainaliu, passing by historic buildings through Kona’s coffeelands. West Hawaii Today.

Nonemergencies put strain on hospital ER. Nearly one of every three Hilo emergency room patients isn’t actually experiencing a medical emergency. Tribune-Herald.

A Kona coffee farmer organization is complaining to state regulators that a California company is misleading consumers over the quantity of premium-priced Kona beans in a line of cold-brew coffee drinks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s only exotic animal sanctuary receives full re-accreditation. Hawaii News Now.

A year-long, $4.2 million, capital improvement construction project is underway at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Study links treated sewage to reef degradation. A new study by federal scientists has found that discharge from a sewage treatment facility in West Maui for years has been drastically undermining the coral reefs off Kahekili Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable Housing Bill Introduced on Maui. A new bill has been introduced to the Maui County Council, proposing that housing be kept affordable for an extended period through deed restrictions. Maui Now.

Property tax bills move forward. The Maui County Council gave first reading approval Friday to two bills that would affect property tax classifications for short-term rentals, which some fear could lead to higher taxes. Maui News.

Rep. Kaniela Ing to Announce Run for Higher Office. State Representative Kaniela Saito Ing of Maui will hold a press conference on Monday to officially announce his 2018 candidacy for higher office. Maui Now.

Census says: Maui population growing, aging, working longer. Maui County’s population increased 17 percent from 2006 to 2016 with Hispanic and Latino people representing the fastest growing race, according to 2016 U.S. Census Bureau surveys released recently. Maui News.

Kauai

Navy meeting is on environmental impacts of testing, training. The Navy is taking another look at how training exercises are affecting the Pacific environment, and a meeting is set for Wednesday in Lihue to talk about it. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s renewable energy project is taking another step forward, as KIUC has issued a request for qualifications for services and equipment supplies for the Pu‘u Opae Energy Project. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has issued a request for qualifications — called an RFQ — from companies that can provide services and equipment for the Pu‘u ‘Opae Energy Project. The RFQ is intended to draw responses from as many interested parties as possible for engineering, equipment supply and construction services. Star-Advertiser.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative will receive a loan of more than $60 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to build and upgrade more than 70 miles of powerlines and support smart grid and other projects. Garden Island.

The sterilization clinic at Kauai Humane Society is opening its doors back up to the public on Tuesday. Garden Island.

Friday, November 3, 2017

Trump to touch down this afternoon, scientists alarmed by coral loss, Portlock beach access condemnation begins, Kauai Humane Society in turmoil, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News
Coral bleaching with yellow tang, file photo, © 2017 All Hawaii News
Scientists deliver alarming message about future of Hawaii's coral reefs. Hawaii's coral reefs and nearshore fisheries are facing unprecedented threats that put their future in question. Hawaii News Now.

A group of Hawaii scientists say nearly half of the state's coral reefs were bleached during heat waves in 2014 and 2015 and nearshore fisheries are declining. Associated Press.

New data released by local scientists show Hawaii's coral and reef fish are in serious decline. The Nature Conservancy presented a briefing at the State Capitol for lawmakers Thursday on how to better protect ocean resources. KITV.

=====

Trump packs a heavy schedule during short trip to isles. President Donald Trump’s overnight stay in Honolulu today is brief, but his planned meeting with the governors of Hawaii, Alaska and Pacific U.S. territories fits into the theme of his first official visit to Asia — bolstering U.S. defenses and prosperity — which takes place amid ongoing tensions with North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

They track air threats to Hawaii 24/7 and they're on high alert for Trump's arrival. At a secure, classified location on Oahu, 230 Hawaii Air National Guard member keep a constant watch over the state. Hawaii News Now.

Road closures begin as Waikiki prepares for president's visit. President Donald Trump and the first lady are scheduled to land Friday afternoon, staying the night before embarking on a 12-day tour of Asia on Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Some flights canceled ahead of Pres. Trump's arrival. Federal Aviation Administration flight restrictions due to Pres. Donald Trump's stopover in Hawaii on Friday has forced some companies to cancel flights. KITV.

‘Wish you weren’t here’: Hawaii prepares to welcome Trump. Associated Press.

Messages for the president. President Donald Trump will be arriving on Oahu on his way to meet with military authorities in Hawaii, as well as government officials across Asia. Garden Island.

=====

Bill Introduced Allowing Hawaii’s Foreign Fishermen Onshore. The crew members are currently confined to their vessels even when they are in port. Associated Press.

Will Inconsistencies in Survivors' Story Lead to a Criminal Investigation? What was first seen as a harrowing tale of survival for two Hawaii women is now coming into question. Hawaii Public Radio.

Shelter shortage, supply-stocking outlook among Hawaii’s hurricane concerns. New guidelines may already be too short for how long you should be prepared to be self-sufficient after an emergency like a hurricane. KHON2.

Hawaii has 132 dams. The vast majority are 'high hazard'. More than 90 percent of Hawaii's dams are considered "high hazard" dams, which means if they fail it could result in the loss of life. Hawaii News Now.

Highway statistics available at DOT website. Highway data — including pavement conditions, average annual daily traffic volume for state roads and locations of fatal traffic crashes for the years 2012 to 2016 — are now available on the state Department of Transportation website. Star-Advertiser.

Accountant is now accused of stealing $7M from Hawaii nonprofit. The new charges bring the total that Lola Jean Amorin is alleged to have stolen from the Arc in Hawaii to nearly $7 million. Hawaii News Now.

HEI’s earnings fall 52.8% due to 2016 merger breakup fee. A $90 million merger break-up fee swelled Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc.’s third-quarter earnings a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries reports Q3 profit of $60M. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. reported net income of $60.1 million, or 55 cents per diluted share, for the third quarter, compared to net income of $127.1 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, for the same quarter last year, which included a termination fee related to NextEra Energy’s failed bid to buy Hawaii’s largest utility. Pacific Business News.

Casting underway for 'Moana' release dubbed in Hawaiian. Disney hit "Moana" is going to be dubbed in Hawaiian, and star Aulii Cravalho has announced she'll be reprising her role in the special release. Hawaii News Now.

Casting Call for Hawaiian Language Version of Moana. Maui Now.

Oahu

Lane to Portlock beach to be opened. The Honolulu City Council gave the OK for the city to initiate condemnation proceedings for an easement over a small lane off Portlock Road allowing surfers, fishers, beachgoers and other ocean enthusiasts public access to a section of beach at Maunalua Bay known as “Seconds.” Star-Advertiser.

Koa Ridge finally reaches building stage. Perseverance. That word was used several times during a ceremony Thursday in Central Oahu where it has taken developer Castle &Cooke Hawaii nearly 20 years to move from planning to building a residential community called Koa Ridge. Star-Advertiser.

Castle & Cooke broke ground Thursday on its 3,500-home Koa Ridge master-planned community in Central Oahu nearly 20 years after it was first proposed, with billionaire Chairman David Murdock vowing to use his own funds to finance the $2 billion mixed-use development on 576 acres between Mililani and Waipio. Pacific Business News.

David Murdock made a rare public appearance in Hawaii Thursday to kick off construction of the $2 billion Koa Ridge master-planned community that is being developed by a company he owns, Castle & Cooke, and financed by himself. Pacific Business News.

What’s At The Center Of The Case Against The Kealohas? Bank Fraud. The former HPD chief and his prosecutor wife are accused of using various methods, from forged documents to bogus rental leases, to defraud banks. Civil Beat.

Judge Dismisses Suit Challenging Secret Meetings About Police Chief. A lawsuit that could have nullified a $250,000 cash payout to former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha was dismissed Wednesday by Hawaii Circuit Court Judge Virginia Crandall. Civil Beat.

The 19-year-old accused of spray painting the Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole statue in Waikiki on Halloween pleaded no contest and was sentenced to two days in jail with credit for time served and four hours of community service. Associated Press.

Bishop Museum hires new leader from New York. The museum is expected to announce today that Melanie Y. Ide, a principal at Ralph Appelbaum Associates, the world’s largest museum exhibition design firm, will take the leadership role following a unanimous vote of the board of directors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor’s vision for peace monument on Mauna Kea includes end to division over TMT. Mayor Harry Kim made a plea for reconciliation Wednesday during his first public remarks about Mauna Kea since Gov. David Ige gave him the green light to pursue his vision for the mountain as a monument to peace. Tribune-Herald.

Lab’s Rat Lungworm Research Finally Gave This Man A Diagnosis. Promising work at the University of Hawaii Hilo is drastically underfunded while $1 million is spent on public education about the disease. Civil Beat.

A central sewer system for the Lono Kona neighborhood took a big step forward Thursday when the County Council agreed on maps and a funding plan. West Hawaii Today.

Hula Hulas, a new restaurant concept recently launched on the Big Island by San Diego-based Grand Restaurant Group, is the first location of five planned for Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Uber and Lyft have seemingly taken off since launching on Hawaii Island earlier this year, though some taxi drivers say the ride-hailing companies have hampered local cab business. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Navy schedules hearing to cover training impact. The U.S. Navy has scheduled a public hearing from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Maui High School for its draft environmental impact statements for personnel and weapons systems training between Hawaii and Southern California. Maui News.

Kauai

More options in animal control. Kauai Humane Society’s animal services contract with County of Kauai could be on the chopping block if the council’s 2018 legislative proposal package is accepted. Garden Island.

Humane society director resigns. A year after taking the helm as head of Kauai Humane Society, Executive Director Scott Pisani has handed in his resignation, and he’s keeping the reason under wraps. Garden Island.

 Lanai

Lanai readies the welcome mat for cruise ship guests. With 458 passengers, the Seabourn Sojourn is the largest cruise liner to call on island. Maui News.

Thursday, November 2, 2017

Officials expect traffic nightmare for Trump visit, first female police chief sworn in, Thirty Meter Telescope appealed to state Supreme Court, legislative panel holds ocean health meeting today, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Trump hotel in Waikiki © 2017 All Hawaii News
Honolulu city and state officials warned residents and visitors to expect massive rush-hour traffic delays Friday and possibly Saturday during President Donald Trump’s visit to Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is warning that President Donald Trump’s stopover in Hawaii on Friday will cause “major traffic delays” along the motorcade route and in the state’s largest tourism district — Waikiki. Pacific Business News.

The president's visit Friday is expected to cause significant traffic delays thanks to road closures along his motorcade route and in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Honolulu Police Department warn the public to expect traffic delays as President Donald Trump makes his first visit to Hawaii as President of the United States. KITV.

City officials discuss potential traffic issues ahead of President Trump’s visit to Honolulu. KHON2.

=====

Some of the Hawaii State Legislature is talking about ocean health today in an informational briefing for the House of Representatives Committee on Ocean, Marine Resources and Hawaiian Affairs. Garden Island.

Hawaii bankruptcy filings are beginning to reflect slowing growth in the state economy and are now on pace to exceed last year’s total. Star-Advertiser.

Taiwan on Wednesday was added to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Global Entry program, which will allow Taiwanese visitors to apply for expedited customs clearance at Honolulu International Airport and 53 other airports in the United States. Pacific Business News.

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. Inc. reported a net loss of $500.000, or 3 cents per share, for the third quarter, compared to net income of $2.5 million, or 13 cents per share, for the same quarter in 2016. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A new era for the Honolulu Police Department began Wednesday with the swearing in ceremony for its 11th chief, Susan Ballard, who replaced recently indicted former Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Officers Hope New Chief Will Clear Away ‘Dark Cloud Over HPD’. Susan Ballard is sworn in as Honolulu’s police chief to a chorus of praise as the department looks to move beyond the Louis Kealoha years. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s first female Police Chief was sworn into office today at HPD Headquarters. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's first female police chief was sworn in to the Honolulu Police Department Wednesday. Chief of Police Susan Ballard was officially named HPD's 11th chief. KITV.

Honolulu’s new top cop took the oath Wednesday morning to protect the City and County. KHON2.

Three former members of the Honolulu Police Department’s elite Criminal Intelligence Unit were back in U.S. District Court on Wednesday to answer to charges filed against them in last month’s indictment of former Honolulu police Chief Louis Kealoha and his prosecutor wife, Katherine Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Three Officers Plead Not Guilty In Honolulu Police Corruption Case. The charges relate to the alleged framing of a man at the behest of the former police chief and his prosecutor wife. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu police lieutenant, an officer and a retired major pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges alleging they helped former Chief Louis Kealoha and his deputy prosecutor wife frame a man. Associated Press.

Three men arrested in the conspiracy case against the former Honolulu police chief pleaded not guilty in federal court Wednesday. KITV.

Two new members to the Honolulu Police Commission were approved unanimously by city council Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council approved Wednesday two new members to the Honolulu Police Commission. KHON2.

Commentary: It Turns Out We Owe Chuck Totto A Big Thank-You. Federal indictments in the Honolulu police corruption case vindicate the former ethics director but raise questions about the Caldwell administration. Civil Beat.

=====

Vacation rental issue moves to planning department. After hearing more than an hour of testimony, City Council members voted to approve four resolutions directing Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration to come up with bills for them to consider. Star-Advertiser.

Pineapple has been gone for over a decade, and vegetable crops disappeared this year. Now, fallow fields between Mililani and Waipio are about to produce homes in a $2 billion project called Koa Ridge in Central Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Castle & Cooke Hawaii plans to break ground Thursday on Koa Ridge, its long-delayed $2 billion master-planned community that will add 3,500 homes along with commercial space, an elementary school and a new hospital in Central Oahu. Pacific Business News.

A preliminary search for state-controlled land parcels on Oahu where possible “safe zones” could be established for homeless encampments turned up no vacant sites. Star-Advertiser.

DLNR to hire salvage company to remove vessel near Kahala Resort. The DLNR says they plan to hire a salvage company to remove a 25-foot sailboat that ran aground Tuesday on the reef at Maunalua Bay. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Opponents of a giant telescope planned to be built on Mauna Kea are appealing the state Land Board’s approval of the project’s construction permit to the Hawaii Supreme Court. Associated Press.

Kona Councilman Dru Kanuha wants to save Kahaluu Beach Park from the sea. Almost 10 years after a conceptual master plan was created for one of the island’s most popular beach parks, Kanuha was successful Wednesday getting fellow members of the County Council to agree to put $600,000 into the budget to plan and design park improvements. West Hawaii Today.

The county is rethinking plans for a popular Kona beach park. During the Finance Committee meeting, Kona councilmember Dru Kanuha introduced a bill to fund the planning and design of future improvements to the park. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim did not agree with the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply’s decision to keep quiet on the failure of two North Kona deep wells in the first half of October, but he did accept it. West Hawaii Today.

A bill to amend the county water plan for the Keauhou Aquifer in Kona has been withdrawn, after the community voiced concerns. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County won’t be getting a time extension yet for completing its master plan for a park in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Tribune-Herald.

A plan for a county park in Puna’s Hawaiian Paradise Park subdivision is moving forward. Big Island Video News.

Aquaculture in Hawaii just got a $149,972 infusion for research and industry support, and it’s being used to develop a way for small businesses and individuals to get a piece of the shellfish industry. Garden Island.

Maui

Land use change for Makila Kai project in trouble. A 49-unit housing project in Launiupoko, containing a mix of residential workforce housing and market-rate agricultural lots, was essentially halted Wednesday. Maui News.

Navy schedules hearing to cover training impact. The U.S. Navy has scheduled a public hearing from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Maui High School for its draft environmental impact statements for personnel and weapons systems training between Hawaii and Southern California. Maui News.

Longline fishing industry scrutinized for hiring of foreign fishermen. The Hawaii Longline Association has jumped into a legal fight they say threatens their livelihood. Longliners oppose a Maui fisherman's complaint against the state. Hawaii News Now.

Island visitor counts continue on record-breaking pace. A total of 2.1M visitors arrived by air on Maui in the first nine months. Maui News.

Maui Health System, the new operator of three isle hospitals, is reversing its controversial policy to charge as much as $672 for a private postpartum room for new parents at Maui Memorial Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

District 12 of the Democratic Party of Maui will host a presentation to discuss Medicare on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Pukalani Pool Multipurpose Room. Maui Now.

Kauai

There were eight fatal vehicle crashes on Kauai’s state roads in 2016, more than double the number in 2015, according to new data from the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Garden Island.

Power was still out in some of Kauai’s North Shore Wednesday evening as a swollen Hanalei River caused the closure of Kuhio Highway and blocked access for repairs. Garden Island.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Hirono says spreading cancer won't keep her from her post, Ige seeks Airbnb tax deal, steep hikes in local Obamacare premiums, F-35A stealth aircraft flying through, disaster declared in Maui drought, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono courtesy image
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, who was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer and had a kidney removed in May, announced Tuesday that she has “some small spots in my thyroid gland.” Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Mazie Hirono has a video update on her fight against cancer. KITV.

Gov. David Ige’s administration is pursuing a private tax agreement with Airbnb Inc. that would allow the vacation rental company to collect taxes from its hosts and send the money to the state. Star-Advertiser.

The proverbial “tip of the spear” is about to get sharper in Asia with 10 of the Air Force’s advanced F-35A stealth aircraft transiting through Hawaii on their way to the first operational deployment for the attack planes to Japan. Star-Advertiser.

HMSA and Kaiser to raise Obamacare rates Jan. 1. The state approved an average 19.8 percent rate hike for Hawaii Medical Service Association and a 24.1 percent increase for Kaiser Permanente’s Obamacare health plans. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian Health Task Force Isn’t Giving Up The Fight. After racing to craft legislation in just five days last session, the group’s members want to continue addressing ethnic health disparities. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Longline Association may join the court battle over foreign fishermen and whether they should be licensed to fish in Hawaii waters despite being barred from stepping on U.S. soil. Star-Advertiser.

Lost-at-sea saga marked by inconsistencies, changing stories. The dramatic story of two Honolulu women who were lost at sea for nearly six months before being rescued by the U.S. Navy played out on front pages and websites worldwide. Associated Press.

A locations assistant on “Hawaii Five-0” sued CBS, alleging an employee harassed her repeatedly for over a year by pursuing unwanted sexual contact and threatening to light her and her desk on fire, among other things. Tribune News Service.

Medical Cannabis vs Prescription Opiate Pain Killers. More than 33,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses last year.  Local medical cannabis proponents say many of these deaths can be prevented. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

It’s Hard To Say Where Homeless People Go After Sweeps. City and state data on their whereabouts is spotty. Advocates say permanent housing is the only true solution. Civil Beat.

Tenants, landlord clash at Kewalo Basin harbor. Two small businesses operating charter boats in Honolulu have been caught up in a dispute with the contractor running a state-owned harbor. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii’s Princess Victoria Kamamalu Building in Downtown Honolulu has re-opened after being vacant for more than a dozen years, following an extensive $27 million renovation that included asbestos abatement. Pacific Business News.

Former charter school director charged with theft. Laara Allbrett, who was the director of Halau Lokahi, was charged Monday with four counts of second-degree theft. KHON2.

The city levies big fines against homeowners — and then waives most of them. For the past eight years, the former owners of a Waikiki property on the corner of Kalaimoku and Kuhio streets have been accruing fines at a rate of $100 per day, for a variety of land use violations. Hawaii News Now.

Owner of Kapolei oil refinery celebrates first anniversary in Hawaii. Island Energy Services LLC, the company that took over the Hawaii-based assets of Chevron Corp., is celebrating its one-year anniversary in the Islands on Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Bikeshare Hawaii CEO pleased by growth, says Biki is evolving. Star-Advertiser.

Pali Momi Medical Center on Monday opened its Hawaii Pacific Health Cancer Center, the first of its kind in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Mum’s the word: DWS explains silence on two North Kona deep well failures in October. For at least a couple of days in the heart of October and during the thick of the Ironman World Championship, Hawaii County was down five of its 13 deep wells in North Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Resurfacing project on Waianuenue Avenue to begin Nov. 13. For nine days, Waianuenue Avenue will be reduced to one lane only between Kamehameha Avenue and Kaiulani Street as workers repair the road’s deteriorated surface. Tribune-Herald.

The recently vacated Keaau Village Market will be replaced by a Longs Drugs location, building permits have revealed. Tribune-Herald.

State Senator Lorraine Inouye, State Representative Chris Todd, and Representative Mark Nakashima were featured speakers at Monday’s Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaii general membership meeting. Big Island Video News.

Authorities on the Big Island are cracking down on agricultural theft by attempting to eliminate the market for stolen produce. Associated Press.

Maui

Drought-stricken Maui farmers eligible for federal loans. The United States Department of Agriculture has designated Maui County as a Primary Disaster Area because of the drought that's plagued the Valley Isle and neighboring islands for years. Hawaii News Now.

The US Department of Agriculture has designated Maui County as a primary natural disaster area due to losses and damages caused by a recent drought. Maui Now.

No Additional Fee for “Private” Postpartum Rooms at Maui Hospital. Effective Nov. 1, 2017, Maui Health System we will no longer collect additional fees for private postpartum rooms at the Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui Now.

The Maui News has reversed course and will use carriers for newspaper home delivery after all. It also will retain its Sunday edition after announcing in a front-page publisher’s note to readers Tuesday that it is rescinding its recent decision to use the U.S. Postal Service for home delivery instead of newspaper carriers. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

A program that helps landlords get paid and helps to keep tenants from being evicted has expanded to Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai renters and landlords have a new resource at their fingertips now that the state Judiciary has expanded an aid program for tenants and landlords. Garden Island.

This week, 13 elders from indigenous tribes around the world are gathering on Kauai to hold ceremonies and talk story about the condition of the planet. Garden Island.

Self-resetting rat traps are turning out to be the firepower conservationists needed to help control rat populations on Kauai. Garden Island.

Kuhio Highway near the Hanalei Bridge is closed tonight due to flooding on Kauai, and a shelter at Hanalei Elementary School has been opened. Star-Advertiser.