Thursday, July 12, 2018

Supreme Court: Hawaii B&B must allow gay couples; lava takes charter school, beach park; Honolulu City Council flouts Sunshine Law; smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco banned at universities; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Lambda Legal
Diane Cervelli and Taeko Bufford were denied by B&B PC: Lambda Legal
Hawaii Supreme Court sides with lesbian couple in B&B case. A state appeals court ruling that a bed and breakfast discriminated by denying a room to two women because they’re gay will stand after the state’s high court declined to take up the case. Associated Press.

6 candidates for Hawaii's First Congressional District share stance on local issues. Ed Case, Doug Chin, Donna Mercado Kim, Kaniela Ing, Beth Fukumoto and Ernie Martin. KITV.

State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim and Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin blasted government bureaucracy and regulatory agencies such as the state Land Use Commission for hamstringing development in Hawaii at a forum for congressional candidates sponsored by local building and real estate trade groups. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Politicians Turn Digital Ads Into A Fundraising Bonanza. Federal candidates, from Tulsi Gabbard to Kaniela Ing, are spreading their messages across the U.S. in the attempt to build name recognition and raise money. Civil Beat.

Challenger criticizes Tulsi Gabbard for avoiding debates prior to primary election. Hawaii News Now.

Smoking and tobacco use, including vaping, is officially banned on all 10 of the University of Hawaii’s campuses under a new law. Star-Advertiser.

All University of Hawaii campuses and properties are now smoke- and tobacco-free. A new law prohibiting smoking and tobacco use on UH premises was passed by the Legislature in May and signed this week by Gov. David Ige. Tribune-Herald.

As of July 10,2018, tobacco use is banned at all 10 University of Hawaii campuses statewide, and the new rules include e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco. KHON2.

Sales at Hawaii’s six medical marijuana dispensaries totaled $6.7 million in the past 10 months, and their earnings are likely to grow with two changes to the state’s cannabis law. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health to Implement New Retail Medical Cannabis Rules. Hawaii’s six operating retail Medical Cannabis Dispensaries are now selling products that function like inhalers or nebulizers. Hawaii Public Radio.

State to implement changes to medical cannabis law. KHON2.

For the military, including Rim of the Pacific exercise participants, there’s a whole lot of emergency, disaster response and mass casualty practice going on this week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii mac nut industry cracks $50 million in sales. Rising prices for macadamia nuts helped Hawaii farmers generate record revenue last year, according to a new federal report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Office of Elections Conducts Drive-Thru Voter Registration. The State Office of Elections is conducting drive-by voter registration on Oahu, the Big Island, Maui and Kauai. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Attorney General’s office is proposing fines of more than $135,000 against two nonprofits for multiple alleged violations of the state’s charitable solicitation laws. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Mayor’s Islandwide Crackdown On The Homeless Rolled Out For Council. Two measures from Kirk Caldwell targeting homeless people in public places receive initial approval. Civil Beat.

City Council Ignores Open Meetings Law To Hear Bike-Sharing Bill. Chairman Ernie Martin convinced his colleagues to hear the bill one day after it was introduced. A minimum six-day notice is required. Civil Beat.

City Releases Plan for Ala Moana Park Renovations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu's shopping bag ban could be having an unintended consequence. Businesses say the new law makes it makes it much tougher to spot thieves. Hawaii News Now.

Families of victims killed in Marco Polo fire to file lawsuit. On July 14, 2017, Britt Reller, Melba Dilly, and Joann Kuwata were killed after the fire ripped through their apartments. Marilyn Van Gieson died several weeks later after suffering smoke inhalation. KHON2.

One year later, we relive the Marco Polo fire that claimed lives and changed laws. KITV.

Hawaiian Heiress’s Charity Board Heads to Court In $215 Million Trust Case. A new board of directors for Princess Abigail Kawananakoa’s charity wants to be included in ongoing battle for control of her trust. Civil Beat.

A mountain of trash and a broken restroom. Welcome to Keehi Lagoon Beach Park. People who frequent an Oahu park say the city needs to take better care of the scenic spot. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Community Development Authority board of directors on Wednesday voted to approve the appointment of Aedward Los Banos as executive director of the state agency responsible for overseeing development in Kakaako, Kalealoa and Heeia on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Servco Pacific Inc. held a blessing ceremony to mark the completion of Hawaii's first publicly accessible hydrogen station, located at the its corporate offices in Mapunapuna. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

A popular Puna beach park that was home to a unique warm pond, as well as beloved public charter school facility, were both taken by lava on Wednesday evening. Big Island Video News.

After weeks of steadily flowing to the ocean in a self-contained channel, lava from fissure 8 began spilling over into Leilani Estates, destroying more homes in the subdivision, according to Hawaii County officials. Star-Advertiser.

The community has anxiously watched and waited as lava from fissure 8 inched toward the ocean — and closed in on the Kua O Ka La Public Charter School. Hawaii News Now.

County approaches Shipman about housing for evacuees. Hawaii County is looking beyond public lands for a potential land swap with Puna residents who lost their homes to lava. Tribune-Herald.

Incidents add to stress at lava shelters. During the 10 weeks since emergency evacuation centers opened in a hurry to house people chased from their homes by the Kilauea eruption, Hawaii County police were called 118 times to the sprawling Pahoa shelter, and another 21 times to the much smaller shelter in Keaau. Star-Advertiser.

With concerns over looting growing on Hawaii island, police are urging homeowners and renters within the eruption zone to report apparent looting as soon as possible. Hawaii News Now.

Work began this week to upgrade the long-delayed Kuawa ball fields in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A two-vehicle head-on collision late Tuesday afternoon on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, also known as Saddle Road, killed a highly regarded scientist and critically injured a well-known local musician. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

It is unclear how much of the remaining $46,000 of the $100,000 county grant awarded to Council Member Alika Atay’s executive assistant will be disbursed, the county Office of Economic Development director told a council committee Wednesday. Maui News.

Charges were dismissed Wednesday against a Haleakala telescope protester when a judge ruled that more than six months had passed without the defendant’s case going to trial. Maui News.

A three-word agenda item involving “proposed rule amendments” that the state Office of Information Practices warned might run afoul of the Sunshine Law was deleted by the liquor commission from Wednesday’s meeting. Maui News.

The National Science Foundation Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope takes shape as work continues atop Haleakala. Maui News.

KCA will present candidates forum. Maui News.

Kauai

Affordable housing plan rejected. Fiscal responsibility framed the Kauai County Council’s Wednesday decision to reject placing a charter amendment on the November ballot that would have allocated 3 percent of real property tax revenues to affordable housing. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council Wednesday voted down a proposed $475,000 infusion into The Kauai Bus to expand weekend services. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. signed a third supplementary emergency proclamation on Wednesday for the County of Kauai in order to continue relief efforts for damages sustained during the April flood. Garden Island.

Lanai

The OHA Board of Trustees will hold a public meeting on Lanai on Thurs., July 12, 2018. Maui Now.

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

U.S. Senate confirms former Hawaii AG as appellate judge, Hawaii to become last state with police standards board, Ige vetoes 8 other bills, Kauai electric co-op generates checks, don't feed the monk seals, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Pohakuloa Quonset huts ©2018 All Hawaii News
The Army plans to demolish nearly 100 World War II-era Quonset huts at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island — a potential loss of iconic structures that historians are lamenting. Star-Advertiser.

The United States Senate has confirmed former Hawaii Attorney General Mark Bennett to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit by a vote of 72-27. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii attorney general confirmed to US Court of Appeals. The U.S. Senate confirmed President Trump’s nomination of Honolulu attorney Mark J. Bennett Tuesday in a 72-27 vote Tuesday. KHON2.

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Governor Reverses Himself: Hawaii Will Get A Police Standards Board. All four county police chiefs also switched positions on the bill, according to Honolulu Chief Susan Ballard. Civil Beat.

A bill requiring the creation of a statewide law enforcement standards and training board has become law after Gov. David Ige on Tuesday reversed course and decided not to veto it. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige vetoes 8 bills but reverses decision on giving Hawaii a police standards board. KITV.

Gov. Ige vetoes eight bills, allows two to become law without his signature. KHON2.

3 measures will become law without the governor's signature. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige plans to veto legislation that would expand the state’s hotel tax. Associated Press.

Here are the 8 bills vetoed by the governor. Gov. David Ige vetoed eight bills on Tuesday that covered topics from medical marijuana use, enhanced consumer protections and environmental concerns. Hawaii News Now.

Read Gov. David Ige's full veto list here.

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Why Union Support Matters In The Hawaii Governor’s Race. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has gathered the majority of big labor endorsements, but incumbent Gov. David Ige has the support of teachers. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Doug Chin was endorsed today by the country’s largest federal employee union in his bid for Congress. Star-Advertiser.

RIMPAC Drill Will Use Hospitals Across the State. Big Island Now.

A U.S. judge gave the green light to lawsuits alleging the weed killer Roundup caused cancer Tuesday, allowing expert testimony linking the herbicide to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Garden Island.

A recent study by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers revealed more information about where rat lungworm has spread — and where it might spread in the future as the climate changes. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Airlines carried a record 1.05 million passengers in June, a 2.9 percent increase over 1.02 million in the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State and federal officials are reminding the public not to feed Hawaiian monk seals after several of the critically endangered species were recently spotted near a bay on the Leeward side looking for food. Star-Advertiser.

New signs are posted at the small bay near Kahe Power Plant asking people especially fishermen not to feed the Hawaiian monk seals. KITV.

Waimea Valley will soon close on a 3.75-acre land purchase that will allow the attraction to undertake its first real expansion since emerging from more than a decade of major financial struggles. Star-Advertiser.

Beachgoers at Magic Island warned of water main break, high bacteria levels. Hawaii News Now.

Crews to test water at Magic Island after finding high bacteria in ocean. KITV.

Toyota Motor Corp. launched a Honolulu car-sharing service today that allows customers to use smartphones to unlock and start cars for rent by the hour or day. Bloomberg.

Servco Pacific Inc. in cooperation with Toyota Connected North America launched car-share program Hui on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Because so much of Hawaii Island geography is designated as lava zones 1 and 2, it doesn’t make sense to bar construction there, Mayor Harry Kim said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Leilani Estates resident Geoffrey Last has been denied FEMA assistance, but his home is uninhabitable, according to a letter from county officials. Big Island Video News.

Lava imperils charter school and destroys endangered plants. Star-Advertiser.

District 7 hopefuls address issues at West Hawaii forum. The race for the Hawaii County Council District 7 seat is one of the 2018 election cycle’s most hotly contested on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island firefighter accused of lying to a federal grand jury about his relationship with a Honolulu deputy prosecutor in the fraud and corruption case against her and her husband, the former Honolulu police chief, was put on paid leave. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County firefighters battled an early morning fire inside a 36,000-square-foot recycling company warehouse in Keaau, and finally putting it out after 5 1/2 hours. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Property owners can now pay their real property taxes online with the County of Maui’s Treasury Division automatic payment program. Maui Now.

Maui Preparatory Academy in Napili is constructing two new campus facilities that will add over 1200 square feet to existing infrastructure and position the school for future growth. Maui Now.

Maui named top island in Hawaii by Travel and Leisure Magazine. For the seventh year in a row, the Valley Isle was voted the top island in Hawaii. KHON2.

The island of Maui has earned honors once again as the No. 1 spot on Travel + Leisure magazine’s list of “Top Islands in Hawaii” in its 2018 World’s Best Awards readers’ survey. Maui Now.


Kauai

All seven candidates for the Kauai Office of the Mayor were on hand Tuesday night at the Kauai Chamber of Commerce Mayor’s Forum at Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

With the passage of Bill 2687 the Kauai County Council seems poised to gift millions of dollars of increased property values to a relatively small number of owners located in Lihue along Rice Street with “no strings attached.” Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative will begin issuing $3.2 million in 2017 patronage capital retirement checks to cooperative members next week. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative will begin issuing $3.2 million in 2017 patronage capital retirement checks to cooperative members next week. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Housing Agency will be accepting applications for its Section 8 program waiting list. KHON2.

The effects of the April flooding continue to be felt on Kauai and will be for the foreseeable future. Hawaii Public Radio.

Molokai

Committee defers action on Molokai short-term rentals. Residents oppose bill that would allow 25 rentals and grandfather existing ones. Maui News.

Lanai

Four Seasons Lanai applies for $5M in building permits for spa, fitness facilities. The spa buildings are part of The Lodge’s long-planned expansion and upgrade that will reduce the hotel’s room count and rebrand it as a destination spa. Pacific Business News.

Tuesday, July 10, 2018

Firefighter indictment alleges Honolulu deputy prosecutor Kealoha used stolen money for affair, Ige signs tougher gun laws, city council advances 400-home development, homes lost to lava now at 700, charter school loses contract, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

file photo
Honolulu Deputy Prosecutor Katherine and ex-Chief Louis Kealoha leave court (file photo)
Kathrine Kealoha allegedly used stolen funds for affair. Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha paid for the hotel and airline tickets to fly her boyfriend to Honolulu from Hilo with money she is charged with obtaining illegally, according to the latest document filed today in the federal case against Kealoha and her husband, retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Star-Advertiser.

Firefighter allegedly lied to grand jury about affair with ex-HPD chief's wife. A Big Island firefighter has been charged with conspiracy to obstruct after allegedly lying to the federal grand jury that eventually indicted Honolulu's ex-police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County firefighter indicted for allegedly lying about Kealoha affair. KHON2.

Big Island firefighter indicted for lying about affair with Katherine Kealoha. KITV.

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Governor Signs Two Bills Tightening Hawaii’s Gun Laws. The measures ban bump stocks and decrease the amount of time people disqualified from gun possession have to turn in their weapons. Associated Press.

Governor signs new laws to tighten gun laws in Hawaii. Gun owners with bump stocks have 30 days to turn them over to the police. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige signs bills directed toward reducing opioid overdoses. Hawaii News Now.

Teachers Channel Frustrations Into Political Campaigns. Union leaders say the four teachers seeking House seats are the highest number of teacher-candidates in recent years. Civil Beat.

The Marine Corps in Hawaii is about to double the number of tilt­rotor MV-22B Ospreys it has to deliver Marines in a hurry to far-flung locations where fixed-wing aircraft can’t land. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Inspires Hope — And Disillusionment — For Hawaiians. Created out of the idealism of the 1970s Hawaiian Renaissance, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has been bogged down by scandal and infighting. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's first-ever marine highway named after late Sen. Daniel Akaka. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's first marine highway named in honor of late US Senator Daniel Akaka. KHON2.

University of Hawaii researchers have found that rat lungworm is poised to expand its range under the spell of climate change, a fact that could leave more people than ever vulnerable to the infectious disease. Star-Advertiser.

Is Wireless Phone Giant Using Hawaii To Greenwash Its Image? An environmental group says a national ad by Verizon Communications misleads viewers about the company’s policies. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City fires contractor for $54M traffic center citing months of issues, delays. Hawaii News Now.

Problems keep expensive traffic management center unfinished. KHON2.

A plan that would allow up to 400 additional housing units in Laie won a preliminary 5-0 approval from the Honolulu City Council Planning Committee this afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable housing bill for Laie advances in city council. KITV.

Public safety officials submit plan for relocating, replacing OCCC. The statement names the Animal Quarantine Station in Halawa as the best choice for relocating OCCC. Hawaii News Now.

The city has revised its improvement plans for Ala Moana Regional Park to address issues brought up at a community meeting in January, and is now accepting public comments on it for the next month and a half. Star-Advertiser.

Close to 1,000 people have applied for low-cost mortgage pre-approvals from a nonprofit at an event that began in Honolulu on Friday, according to the event’s organizer. Star-Advertiser.

Mortgage Program Aims to Overcome Home-Buying Obstacles for Hawaii Residents. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

700 and counting: Number of homes officially destroyed since lower Puna eruption began increases. Tribune-Herald.

Cinder Road Residents Advised to Prepare for Evacuation. Big Island Now.

The ongoing lava flow has swallowed most of a $2.7 million parcel the county is buying for open space. West Hawaii Today.

Intense, hot air from the ongoing Kilauea eruption — combined with a drop in tradewinds — triggered 9.22 inches of rain containing sulfur dioxide to drench an isolated portion of the lower East Rift Zone in the 24 hours that ended at 8 Monday morning. Star-Advertiser.

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State Revokes Charter Of Big Island School. Parents will have to find new schools for 93 students after the Ka'u Learning Academy is closed by the Charter School Commission. Civil Beat.

The state Public Charter School Commission on Monday unanimously voted to revoke Ka'u Learning Academy’s charter because of multiple violations. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission today voted to revoke the charter contract for Ka'u Learning Academy "due to multiple contract violations", the state commission says. Big Island Video News.

State commission revokes Ka'u Learning Academy's charter amid criminal investigations. Hawaii News Now.

Kau Learning Academy contract revoked by charter school commission. KHON2.

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From plaques to peanuts: Council members report gifts. West Hawaii Today.

Laaloa Beach Park renovations to begin soon, will include parking lot reduction or removal. West Hawaii Today.

'A slow death': Waipio Valley residents concerned as mysterious illness kills wild horses. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The Realtors Association of Maui will host a mayoral debate on Thursday, July 26, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Historic Iao Theater in Wailuku. Maui Now.

A housing development arm of Catholic Charities Hawaii announced Monday that it plans to start building half of a $48 million rental housing complex for low-income seniors on Maui by the end of this year. Star-Advertiser.

Land Purchase Complete for Proposed Kahului Senior Affordable Rental Housing. Maui Now.

Land sale final for affordable senior rental housing project. Maui News.

Two pieces of Maui’s housing market moved in opposite directions in June, with declines for single- family houses and gains for condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

The median price of a Maui condominium jumped 20 percent in June, compared to a year ago, while single-family home prices dipped, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

The light at the more than century-old McGregor Point Lighthouse along the coastline near Maalaea will be out until September as the U.S. Coast Guard repairs the navigational aid for boaters. Maui News.

Kauai


The Kauai Chamber of Commerce’s fourth annual Mayor’s Luncheon is set for noon July 17 at Koloa Landing Resort. Garden Island.

The public is advised that the outermost southbound lane of Kuhio Highway at the intersection with Ehiku Street will be closed from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. tonight through Thursday. Garden Island.

Monday, July 9, 2018

Hawaii revising union laws following Janus decision, ballot testing and election updates, Maui council aide gets $100k county grant, volcano still simmers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Union rally, 2009 All Hawaii News file photo
State Moves to Stop Fee Collection for Non-Union Employees. The policy, outlined in a memo from the State Comptroller, was spurred by last week’s U.S. Supreme Court decision in the case of Janus v AFSCME. Hawaii Public Radio.

How Gov Candidates Would Grow Hawaii’s Economy. The next governor will face the challenge of not just creating new jobs, but creating high-paying jobs that allow people to afford to live in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige wins over environmentalists. It wasn’t more than two months into his term as governor when David Ige ignited the ire of environmentalists by nominating a development lobbyist for Castle & Cooke to lead the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: Hawaii News Now enables Tulsi Gabbard’s campaign hypocrisy. Hawaii News Now.

Ballot machines tested ahead of primary election. KHON2.

Important dates you should know for the upcoming election. Hawaii News Now.

'Broken Promises': Documentary on Department of Hawaiian Homelands to release at Capitol. A new documentary centered around problems within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will be released at the State Capitol on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Public schools could soon be open for business. SB2051 would not only help students learn about business, but allow public schools to generate their own revenue. KHON2.

Private schools across the state are raising tuition by an average of 4 percent this fall, with the bill reaching $24,780 at Punahou School, the state’s largest independent campus. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture has issued the first licenses to growers under the state’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Program. Garden Island.

Program Fighting Childhood Obesity Secures $2 million in Funding. Maui Now.

Big Island, Kauai see higher home prices in first half of 2018. Condominium prices on the Big Island rose by double digits during the first half of this year, while Kauai saw double-digit gains in sales for both single-family homes and condominiums. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The latest vision of Laie’s future will get its first public airing at today’s City Council Planning Committee meeting, and the draft’s author expects the sparks to fly again in a dispute that’s dragged on for years. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal for more housing in Laie, BYU expansion garners mixed reaction. On Monday, city council members will hold a special meeting that is expected to draw supporters and opponents of a controversial development plan for part of Oahu's North Shore. Hawaii News Now.

What Honolulu Rail Planners Can Learn From Puerto Rico. San Juan’s Tren Urbano, an elevated, heavy rail system like that planned in Honolulu, has struggled with low ridership and cost overruns. Civil Beat.

A Navy captain on active duty at Pearl Harbor has been censured for “repeatedly and improperly” accepting gifts from a Singapore-based defense contractor. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s Bright Retail Outlook May Not Linger.  Retail on Oahu has been growing over the past six months, but that could change as retailers confront two unfavorable conditions. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Marco Polo high rise almost one year after the fire. The deadly Marco Polo Condominium fire is considered one of the most destructive fires in Honolulu's history. KHON2.

Mobile phone company Sprint hitches gear to city light poles. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home prices dip but stay close to record. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Challengers in some Hawaii Island political races say the public is missing out on the back-and-forth of debates and candidate forums because the incumbents are no-shows. West Hawaii Today.

The Pahoa Community Center will open as a polling place on primary election day, Aug. 11, to allow residents hardest hit by the ongoing Kilauea eruption to register and vote on the same day. Star-Advertiser.

As a Puna geothermal plant enters its third month of a lava-triggered shutdown, its parent company affirmed its commitment to re-opening the facility and has told the 30 full-time workers they will remain on the payroll for at least a year. Star-Advertiser.

No significant change in volcanic activity. Tribune-Herald.

Community watches anxiously as lava closes in on Puna charter school. Hawaii News Now.

Several residents are determined to stay in their Leilani Estates homes. Star-Advertiser.

Kilauea eruption downsizes one of the Big Island’s largest orchid growers. Star-Advertiser.

While most of East Hawaii is seeing a wetter-than-average year so far, much of West Hawaii is parched. That’s particularly true for the Kona coffee belt — potentially bad news for this year’s coffee crop. Tribune-Herald.

Residents in the Laaloa Avenue area are one step closer to having a park of their own. A final environmental assessment with a finding of no significant impact for the long-planned project was published Sunday in the July 8 edition of the Office of Environmental Quality Control’s twice-a-month Environmental Notice. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Atay grant for queen’s events under review. $100,000 awarded to council member’s executive assistant. Maui News.

Ige signs bill to help tenants at Lahaina complex. Law begins process to condemn land under Front Street Apartments; provides $30 million for new construction. Maui News.

Pulehunui Industrial Park, Maui’s first and only subdivision to offer M3 Industrial zoning, is now complete and available to Maui businesses. Maui Now.

Maui Leads State in Timeshare Occupancy at 96%. Maui Now.

Kauai

Candidates at WKBPA meeting. The candidates for state representative for Kauai County District 16, Stephanie Iona and incumbent Dee Morikawa, will present their platforms. Garden Island.

County talks beach repair. April’s historic flooding brought in about 70,000 cubic yards of sand to Hanalei Bay, according to a study from the University of Hawaii. That damaged Weke Road, destroyed the comfort station at Black Pot Beach and left erosion up to 12 feet deep in some areas. Garden Island.

It could be months before reconstruction starts on Hanalei’s Weke Road — the sinkhole is still there and the road is still closed after April floods wiped it out. Garden Island.

Judge rules for developer in Coco Palms dispute, paves way for Kauai resort. A Hawaii developer will be able to lay groundwork for a resort in Kauai, ending court dealings in a lengthy property dispute. Associated Press.

Condominium sales jumped on Kauai last month, along with prices, while single-family homes posted a more modest price gain on flat sales, according to data from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Friday, July 6, 2018

Hawaii increasing election security, no veto override session, Kamehameha Schools pays $5M to settle student sex abuse lawsuit, Coco Palms back on track, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii ballot testing ©2018 All Hawaii News
State Details Plans For Spending $3.1 Million In Election Security Funds. Software and staff upgrades will make Hawaii’s voting system less vulnerable to cyber attacks, officials say. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers won’t override Ige vetoes. House and Senate lawmakers will not meet in a special session this year to attempt to override any vetoes of bills by Gov. David Ige, but the state Senate will meet Monday and Tuesday to consider approving the appointments of four District Court judges. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige Signs 11 Measures Into Law. Big Island Now.

New law preserves Affordable Care Act measures for Hawaii residents. Hawaii News Now.

Budding nonprofit looks to document whale sharks in Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Dick’s Sporting Goods could be coming to Hawaii. Dick’s Sporting Goods may be preparing to enter the Hawaii market, according to public documents that show the big-box retailer registered with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to do business in the state last month. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Kamehameha Schools has agreed to pay $5 million to settle a civil lawsuit filed by the families of four former students of a teacher who is accused of secretly recording students showering in his faculty apartment. Star-Advertiser.

$5M settlement reached in Kamehameha Schools sex assault case. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools settles case involving former teacher accused of videotaping kids. KHON2.

A settlement has been reached between Kamehameha Schools, three parents, four former students and Gabriel Alisna, a former high school speech teacher and debate coach. Alisna is being criminally prosecuted for videotaping and assaulting students. KITV.

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City lawyers work hard to ensure sidewalk bills will withstand challenges. Over the past four years, city attorneys have warned Mayor Kirk Caldwell and the City Council not to enact laws that would place a ban on sitting and lying on Oahu sidewalks because they did not think they could stand up to constitutional challenges. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii businessman Duane Kurisu is asking the Honolulu City Council for permission to build a 150-foot radio tower next to Kahauiki Village, a low-income housing project along Nimitz Highway that Kurisu built with help from the state and local governments. Star-Advertiser.

An eviction case against former employees of Hawaiian Heiress Abigail Kawananakoa was dismissed Thursday. The family of the Kawananakoa's  former maid and chauffeur claim a Pearl City home was gifted to them by the heiress in 2016. KITV.

Saturday driver licensing hours offered through August 25 on Oahu. KHON2.

A Boston-based nonprofit backed by two national lenders is offering no-fee home mortgages with below- market interest rates for Hawaii residents at a free five-day event that starts today in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

A newly renovated Hawaiian monk seal exhibit is once again open at Waikiki Aquarium, with Hoailona the monk seal cruising around his new home. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ige signing bill that bodes well for Banyan Drive, Kanoelehua lessees. Gov. David Ige will visit Hilo today to sign a redevelopment bill intended to revitalize Banyan Drive and the Kanoelehua Industrial Area. Tribune-Herald.

Only 4 homes remain in Kapoho as eruptions continue on the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Safety the biggest hurdle to creating lava viewing site. Hawaii County is continuing to pursue a site for a lava viewing area, but overflows from the fissure 8 channel and other hazards are presenting challenges. Tribune-Herald.

With the eruption in lower Puna settling into a fairly consistent pattern, state elections officials are considering opening a polling place for Pahoa on primary election day. Tribune-Herald.

One of the many impacts of the ongoing lava eruption on the Big Island is on the supply of electricity. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lake Waiau’s water levels remain robust almost five years after it nearly disappeared amid years of drought. West Hawaii Today.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is moving forward with an  11,000-acre management plan to replace rutted dirt roads crisscrossing the 2.5-mile distance to popular Green Sands beach with a pedestrian path and emergency access road. Civil Beat.

Maui

Requests for proposals for Hawaii Tourism Authority’s Community Enrichment, Kukulu Ola and Aloha ‘Aina programs open June 13, and informational sessions are set countywide later this month. Maui News.

Maui resident Kyoko Kimura, director of owner relations for Aqua-Aston Hospitality, will take her seat on the board of directors at this month’s meeting of the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui News.

Kauai

Coco Palms back on track. In lieu of a trial, a summary judgment hearing ended the Coco Palms property dispute in a Kauai courtroom on Thursday. Garden Island.

Seeking balance at a North Shore gem. Gov. David Ige says he thinks it’s a good idea to try and start construction on the new plan for Haena State Park while post-flood restoration work is ongoing on the North Shore. Garden Island.

$500K for cultural center. The Kauai Philippine Cultural Center could be completed by year’s end. Garden Island.

Thursday, July 5, 2018

Hawaii's sunscreen ban first in nation, 450 rescued from Honolulu 'floatilla,' former ILWU union boss indicted, volcano, earthquakes continue to rattle Big Island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

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Rinsing off beach baby ©2018 All Hawaii News
Hawaii became the first state in the nation to ban sales of sunscreens containing chemicals deemed harmful to coral reefs after Gov. David Ige signed a bill into law Tuesday afternoon at the Capitol Rotunda in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Governor Starts The Clock On Sunscreen Ban. Gov. David Ige signs a bill that prohibits the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate in the islands, beginning in 2021. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige on Tuesday signed legislation that will ban the sale of sunscreens containing two chemicals thought to harm coral reefs. Associated Press.

34% of Hawaii’s coast at risk as climate change accelerates. A study by University of Hawaii researchers has found a third of the state’s shorelines are vulnerable to coastal hazards as the waves and storms that hit the islands become intensified by the growing impacts of sea level rise. Star-Advertiser.

Conditions of Hawaii's Beaches this Summer. The Conversation's Catherine Cruz spoke with Dolan Eversole, a coastal geologist with the University of Hawaii’s Sea Grant College, about managing our coastal resources as we face rising warming waters. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Congressional candidate Sherry Alu Campagna is upset Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has not agreed to debate her. Garden Island.

More women in Hawaii are running for office in 2018 than in the last election cycle two years ago, following a nationwide trend. Statewide, females make up 38 percent of candidates this year, compared to 32 percent in the prior election cycle. Civil Beat.

Former high-ranking union leader slapped with theft charges in new indictment. A federal grand jury has indicted Nate Lum, the former division director for the ILWU on theft charges. Hawaii News Now.

How Hawaii Is Trying To ‘Grow Our Own’ Pipeline of New Teachers. In an effort to address the state’s chronic teacher shortage, a new initiative offers scholarships and support to help long-term subs become licensed teachers. Civil Beat.

Governor to sign 'bill of rights' for Hawaii's foster youth. Current and former foster youth helped shape legislation that Gov. David Ige will sign into law on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Federal Disaster Survivor Assistance teams on Tuesday began going door-to-door on Oahu and Kauai trying to register uninsured or underinsured renters and homeowners who may qualify for federal assistance after suffering damage during April’s rains and flooding that triggered landslides and mudslides. Star-Advertiser.

Representatives from FEMA's Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be going door-to-door to register homeowners and renters of the City and County of Honolulu and Kauai County who were uninsured or underinsured and suffered damage from the April severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides. KHON2.

Report: Hawaii still a long way off from 100 percent renewable energy. Hawaii law mandates that by 2045, 100 percent of energy in the state's electricity sector must be renewable. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Lifeguards have rescued about 450 July Fourth "floatilla" revelers in waters off Waikiki, a Honolulu Emergency Services Department spokeswoman said. Hawaii News Now.

Fourth of July floatilla considered calm, controlled despite more than 450 rescues. KHON2.

Hundreds of people rescued during the annual 4th of July flotilla in Waikiki, but compared to last year's event some say this one was tamer. KITV.

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More than 1,000 people use special Saturday DMV hours after computer outage. KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric prepares to launch first phase of community solar program. Customers participating in the program will receive a credit on their electric bill. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu’s controversial bike share program is expanding. BikeShare Hawaii plans to add about 40 new Biki docking stations to its existing 100 this year, displacing one to two parking stalls per station in some cases. Star-Advertiser.

$1.7 Million for Hawaii Ocean Research, Estuary Management. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will award a total of $1,748,582 to the University of Hawai‘i to fund its Sea Grant College Program and its management of the Heeia National Estuarine Research Reserve. Maui Now.

Hawaii Island

State Senate District 3 candidates share views during forum. For the first time in a decade, the state Senate seat for Hawaii Island’s 3rd District will be filled by a new face. West Hawaii Today.

Waimea Community Association is again collaborating with several community groups to co-host a candidate forum from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 12, in Hawaii Preparatory Academy’s Taylor Commons, the upper campus cafeteria. Big Island Now.

Tourism bureau: It’s the best time to visit the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii National Guard deactivated the Joint Task Force 50 partnership with the Guard and regular military forces that was formed to help with the lava emergency response in Hawaii County, said Guard spokesman Maj. Jeff Hickman on Tuesday in a statement. Tribune-Herald.

Air quality monitoring, condemnation, and access to isolated homes were some of the concerns on the minds of the residents of Puna, who were given a chance to directly question county officials for the second time at Tuesday’s eruption meeting in Pahoa. Big Island Video News.

The Village That Can’t Stop Shaking. Volcano Village’s residents and businesses are coping with frequent earthquakes and the closure of the nearby national park. Civil Beat.

People returned to subdivision buried by lava in 1990 — could it happen again? Star-Advertiser.

Kalapana vacation rental businesses may resume operations after volcano eruption. KHON2.

County still seeking site for Naalehu sewer plant. Maybe the 31st time will be the charm. West Hawaii Today.

During a special session held Friday in Hilo, the Hawaii County Council met with and approved the 11 nominees to serve on the Charter Commission. Big Island Video News.

Maui

A proposed charter amendment to reorganize the county’s executive branch by incorporating a professional managing director to run the county’s daily operations was deferred by a County Council committee Tuesday, which likely means it will not be on Nov. 6 general election ballot. Maui News.

Fireworks Likely Cause of Kihei Fire: Two Homes Destroyed, Four Others Damaged. Maui Now.

Fireworks possible cause of fire that destroyed two Maui homes. KHON2.

Old cane field fire burns at least 2,500 acres. Traffic slowed, precautionary evacuations called. Maui News.

Sales of lots in Maui heavy industrial park set to close. Subdivision improvements at the 86-acre Pulehunui Industrial Park on Maui, the island’s first and only subdivision with M3 heavy industrial zoning, have been completed, clearing the way for lots to be delivered to buyers, including Goodfellow Bros. Inc., Aloha Waste Systems and Truss Systems Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

North Shore learning lessons. Following the massive rainfall and flooding on Kauai in April, many residents experienced a high degree of uncertainty as schools, businesses, and roads were closed, leaving many stranded or displaced. Garden Island.

Tuesday, July 3, 2018

Democratic candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and vacant congressional seat square off in debates, Honolulu short $134M for rail project; thunder, lightning, whirlwinds as Kilauea eruption creates its own weather, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

screenshot from Hawaii News Now
Hanabusa, Ige debate PC: Hawaii News Now screenshot
Gov. David Ige faced off against his Democratic challenger, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, on Monday, seeking to point to his record — and suggest she doesn't have one. Hawaii News Now.

Ige, Hanabusa Spar Over LG, Special Interests And False Missile Alert. A televised debate between the leading Democratic candidates for governor offered familiar rhetoric mixed with lively jabs over fresh topics. Civil Beat.

Hanabusa and Ige debate immigration, environment. The forum was sponsored by the Hawaii Lodging &Tourism Association, Waikiki Improvement Association, Retail Merchants of Hawaii and Waikiki Neighborhood Board. Star-Advertiser.

Two of Hawaii's top Democratic contenders vying to be the next governor squared of in Waikiki on Monday. Both candidates agreed to disagree on how to sustain the state's record setting tourism industry. KITV.

Top gubernatorial candidates differ on ohana zones for homeless. Star-Advertiser.

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The five Democrats vying for the second-highest position in state government kept things upbeat and friendly Monday evening at a forum sponsored by Hawaii News Now, stressing their qualifications and avoiding any criticism of one another. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s How These 5 LG Hopefuls Would Make That Office Relevant. The five Democratic candidates for Hawaii’s lieutenant governor spent an hour Monday evening trying to win over voters. Civil Beat.

In debate, candidates for lieutenant governor point to their experience, priorities. Hawaii News Now.

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Tension erupted at times as six candidates vying for the congressional seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa worked to set themselves apart from each other Monday night during a debate hosted by Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic Contenders For Congress Duke It Out. A debate Monday featured sharp attacks on the candidates’ records, as well as disagreements about the scale of the military presence in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

In heated debate, candidates for Congress seek to differentiate themselves — and one another. Hawaii News Now.

Super debate attendees weigh in on what they heard from the candidates. Hawaii News Now.

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How Capitol Connections Helped A Nonprofit Win A State Grant. Two Hawaii lawmakers voted to give public money to an animal support organization while sitting on its board of directors. Civil Beat.

Specific kinds of sunscreens are disappearing from the shelves this summer in preparation for the 2021 Hawaii oxybenzone ban, which Gov. David Ige is expected to sign into law today. Garden Island.

A new campaign is seeking to raise awareness about prostitution and sex trafficking during RIMPAC, world's largest maritime exercise. Hawaii News Now.

The largest containership ever built in the United States was christened Saturday and soon will be on its way to Hawaii where it will regularly deliver merchandise from the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

Cincinnati Bell completed its acquisition of Hawaiian Telcom on Monday and named a new top executive for the Hawaii phone, TV and internet service provider. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The latest report on Honolulu’s troubled rail project by independent consultant Jacobs Engineering Group estimates the project will cost $8.3 billion, about $134 million more than the city’s current forecast, and possibly be fully operational nine months later than has been projected. Star-Advertiser.

Feds: Honolulu Rail Is Still Short By $134 Million. A new federal report on the transit project’s risks pushes its completion back nearly a year and says it needs even more cash. Civil Beat.

Federal report estimates rail cost at $8.3 billion with completion in 2026. KHON2.

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Parking complaints at Hanauma Bay spotlight larger concerns. Hawaii News Now.

City to hold hearing on potential changes to surf contest permit process. A hearing on whether the city should change its rules when it comes to surf contests will be held Tuesday. KHON2.

Charter School Principal Calls It Quits After A Year. Principal Jeff Vilardi is the latest in a series of staff departures at Kamalani Academy. Civil Beat.

Community outrage over the death of hammerhead sharks sparks a $5,000 reward. The state says this is the first time concerned groups have offered a reward for the taking of hammerhead sharks. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

New Emergency Proclamation Divides Lower Puna Into Areas A, B. Big Island Video News.

In the Leilani Estates subdivision, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory field crews monitoring fissure 8 captured this video of a whirlwind above the lava channel. Tribune-Herald.

Fissure Whirlwind, Lava Boats & Volcanic Thunderstorms Explained. Big Island Video News.

Eruptions on the Big Island are so vigorous they're creating weather. Hawaii News Now.

Access to parts of lower Puna will improve today with the reopening of Highway 130 between Pahoa and Kalapana. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii volcano that’s been erupting in a residential neighborhood for the past two months has built a cone that’s now about the height of 10-story Aloha Tower. Associated Press.

Unable to operate their nonprofit park stores following the May closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Hawaii Pacific Parks Association has opened a new store location in Prince Kuhio Plaza. Tribune-Herald.

Church leaders meet to organize aid efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Maybe the 31st time will be the charm. After evaluating 29 sites, Hawaii County is looking at two more possibilities for a sewer plant in Naalehu. West Hawaii Today.

Four state parks will close early on the Fourth of July, the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Cochran seeks to extend Central Maui moratorium on sand mining. The legislation has a July 19 expiration date. Maui News.

Last call today for changes to charter. Committee will review final set of amendments. Maui News.

A Families Belong Together sign waving rally was held on Maui on Saturday, June 30, 2018 to support the reunification of migrant children with their parents. Maui Now.

Kauai

County officials announced that refuse collection services for residents affected by the April flood in the Wainiha and Haena area will continue through July 31. Garden Island.

Nine teen students recently completed the three-day MyPI, or Hawaii Youth Preparedness Initiative, Teen Community Emergency Response Team training. Garden Island.

The Department of Taxation announced dates for its 2018 Tax Workshop to be held across the state this month. Garden Island.

Monday, July 2, 2018

Democrats debate tonight, fewer women judges, Hawaii County passes general excise tax surcharge as lava claims mount, Honolulu plastic bag ban goes into effect, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2018 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii children at play ©2018 All Hawaii News
Hawaii landed in the middle of the pack, ranking 24th for child well-being among the 50 states, according to the 2018 Kids Count Data Book released today by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s population is projected in a state economic report to increase gradually and reach 1.65 million people by 2045, with the fastest growth occurring on the neighbor islands. Star-Advertiser.

Super Debate to feature Democratic candidates for 3 key races. Hawaii News Now.

Pivotal Oahu Seat Is Up For Grabs In OHA Elections. Peter Apo is leaving the Office of Hawaiian Affairs board, setting up a seven-way race to replace him. Civil Beat.

Fewer women are applying for judge positions in Hawaii. Today, women make up 39 percent of the 80 bench seats, compared with 36 percent in 2004. Star-Advertiser.

Insurer rescinds pot payout. Hawaii’s workers’ compensation insurers are grappling with reimbursements for medical marijuana claims that are slowly trickling in as more doctors certify patients to use cannabis as an alternative to opioids. Star-Advertiser.

New state law makes credit security freezes free for Hawaii residents. A new state law that went into effect on Sunday will allow Hawaii consumers to request free security freezes. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed bans on plastic straws run into resistance in Hawaii and dozens of U.S. cities. Associated Press.

Exhibitors showcase latest technology trends at RIMPAC's inaugural innovation fair. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Struggle For Power In Honolulu Is Coming To A Head. New taxes and other fees. More money for rail. Even monster houses. The fate of contentious city issues hinges on who’s elected. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Wins Right To Intervene In HPD Arbitration Case. The news outlet has been seeking the report that gave Sgt. Darren Cachola his job back. Civil Beat.

No cleanup help for ‘floatilla’. Revelers at the annual Independence Day “floatilla” off of Waikiki are on their own this year as far as cleanup efforts are concerned, according to local nonprofit Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Protesters rally against zero-tolerance immigration policy. On Oahu people rallied at the state capitol and marched to the federal building. It was just one of hundreds of Families Belong Together events planned this weekend. KHON2.

Hundreds show up for the keep families together rally in Hawaii. KITV.

Don’t forget your reusable bags. Starting Sunday, Honolulu businesses will charge at least 15 cents per bag provided to customers at checkout. Star-Advertiser.

Stores react to new bag fee. KHON2.

Oahu DMV lines expected to get longer this summer. The state has a seen a surge of license renewals, leading to long lines at many centers. While the wait has increased for many, it is expected to be get even worse as renewals peak later this year. KITV.

After several delays, city to move forward with redevelopment of Varona Village. Long-awaited plans to revitalize a former plantation town are finally moving forward after several delays. Star-Advertiser.

A hearing on the possible eviction of former longtime employees of Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa from their Pearl City home will take place this week after being delayed. Star-Advertiser.

A failed business deal between the YMCA of Honolulu and a real estate development firm has descended into another legal dispute after the developer was ordered to pay the nonprofit $2 million. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Business Picked as Best Regional Business Magazine in the Country. Hawaii Business.

Civil Beat Named Best News Website In Hawaii. Journalism awards for Hawaii media were announced at the annual SPJ banquet Friday night. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

A one-quarter-percent surcharge will be added to the general excise tax in Hawaii County starting Jan. 1, following action Friday by the County Council. After teetering on both the winning and losing side of a 5-4 vote for months, the bill passed 7-2 just one day before the state-imposed deadline. West Hawaii Today.

Councilmembers voted to resurrect a failed bill on Friday, enacting a one- quarter (.25) percent general excise and use tax surcharge at the county level. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Harry Kim asked the council to pass the new general excise surcharge as Hawaii County faces a fiscal struggle made worse by the eruption of Kilauea Volcano in Puna. Big Island Video News.

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State Sen. Lorraine Inouye is proposing that Hawaii County officials prohibit new construction on thousands of lots in the two highest risk lava inundation zones to try to prevent another disaster on the scale of the ongoing May 3 eruption of Kilauea Volcano. Star-Advertiser.

County, state and federal lawmakers took part in a public forum on Saturday to discuss the future of the Puna district in light of the ongoing eruption of Kilauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Department of Health Expands Air Quality Monitoring on Hawaii Island. Maui Now.

Community organizers celebrated the spirit of collaboration Saturday as they officially dedicated a new micro-housing facility for residents displaced by the ongoing lava flow in Lower Puna. Star-Advertiser.

During a blessing of 20 small shelters for those displaced by the Kilauea eruption, Hope Services CEO Brandee Menino said it’s hard to put a price tag on the value of all the donated supplies and labor for the first transitional village. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported Sunday that fissure No. 8 in Kilauea volcano’s lower East Rift Zone continues to be active and feeding a lava channel to the ocean at Kapoho, producing a broad ocean entry at Kapoho Beach Lots. The spatter cone was said to be about 180-feet high. Tribune-Herald.

What causes the collapse/explosion events at Kilauea’s summit? Tribune-Herald.

Kilauea eruption has shaken Volcano village. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii County is asking two companies to hold their bid prices for the Lono Kona sewer project until the U.S. Department of Agriculture approves the awarding of a contract. West Hawaii Today.

The state Public Utilities Commission voted 3-0 to give Hawaii Electric Light Co. a reduced rate increase so that the utility can meet its revenue requirement of $290.7 million. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly 2.3 million gallons of rain and wastewater were discharged from Big Island Dairy in Ookala over three days in May, before heading into nearby gulches. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Atay’s assistant is barred from Council Services floor, ag offices. Bardellini deemed to have violated policy on workplace violence. Maui Now.

The firefighter’s chief. Jeff Murray retires as second longest serving chief, willing to get into the mud and smoke. Maui News.

Maui hotels and resorts posted a rosy May with visitor arrivals by air up 7.3 percent over the same month last year, visitor spending up double-digits and revenues per room at $259 — the highest in the state — the Hawaii Tourism Authority said in two reports last week. Maui News.

Maui News staffers earn 16 awards from journalism professionals group. Maui’s Last Harvest nets journalism prize. Maui News.

Primates Find a Home in Upcountry Maui. For 34 years the Maui’s Pacific Primate Sanctuary has been home to monkeys - -marmosets and tamarind monkeys- which are not native to the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

Ensuring the government is in compliance with the ideal of capitalism is why Ana Mo Des is running for mayor. Garden Island.

Kauai Fire Department officials are reminding the public that a permit must be obtained by Tuesday to purchase and ignite firecrackers on the Fourth of July. Garden Island.

Plum season officially opened this weekend at Kauai's Kokee State Park. The sweet plums are an island favorite for many, and families enjoy making the trek up the mountain to pick the fruit. Hawaii News Now.