Hawaii House updates sexual harassment policy, expired tax credit costs millions, audit says DLNR mismanaged land fund, security cameras for Waikiki, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Press conference on House sexual  harassment policy PC:House Majority

Hawaii’s House of Representatives has revamped its sexual harassment policy following pressure brought on by the #MeToo movement and resignation of former Rep. Joe Souki last year amid complaints by several women that he had made unwanted advances toward them, including sexual comments, touching and kissing. Star-Advertiser.

Why Critics Say New House Sexual Harassment Policy Doesn’t Go Far Enough. They say the policy is a  “good first step” that meets many national best practices, but it lacks an appeals process and requires secrecy even after cases are resolved. Civil Beat.

State House Unveils Workplace Harassment Policy. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii House of Representatives updates workplace harassment policy. KHON2.

House lawmakers proposing changes to harassment policy. State House lawmakers are vying to significantly revamp harassment policies at the Capitol. KITV.

House harassment policy can be found here.

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This Long-Expired High-Tech Tax Credit Is Still Costing Hawaii Millions. The state awarded $289.1 million in tax credits in 2016, including $16.3 million for a program that no longer exists. Civil Beat.

A multimillion-dollar state fund to acquire private land for conservation purposes has been poorly managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, hampering its effectiveness, accountability and transparency, according to a state audit. Star-Advertiser.

The state Board of Education last month voted behind closed doors to extend Superintendent Christina Kishimoto’s contract by one year, but a question has arisen about whether the action was proper. Star-Advertiser.

The State Department of Agriculture briefed members of the Senate today on some of its budget priorities. Hawaii Public Radio.

Filmmaker Settles Lawsuit After Hawaii Grants Him Tax Credits. Tim Chey had charged the state film office discriminated against him because it didn’t like his Christian-themed historical drama. Civil Beat.

By Land And Sea, The Shutdown Takes Its Toll On Hawaii. A recent study finds the latest federal budget impasse is hitting the islands especially hard. Civil Beat.

With the partial government shutdown now in its third week, federal employees in Hawaii are feeling the impacts. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Fifty new security cameras will be installed in Waikiki, to the delight of the Waikiki Neighborhood Board. KHON2.

A vintage military fighter jet that was ditched at sea off Kewalo Basin on Dec. 12 with the pilot ejecting seconds before has been located in pieces in about 300 feet of water, the Coast Guard said. Star-Advertiser.

Pearl Harbor Tour company owner says, "we're struggling" as government shutdown continues. KHON2.

After 94 years of educating Hawaii’s youth, Saint Francis School will close its middle and high schools at the end of the academic year in May, its board announced Monday, citing loss of financial assistance. Star-Advertiser.

Saint Francis to lay off dozens of teachers, do away with upper grades. Hawaii News Now.

St. Francis School closing grades 7 through 12. The 87th, and final graduation ceremony will be held on May 25th. KITV.

Home sales on Oahu dropped by 28 percent last month, compared to December 2017, even as the median price of single-family homes rose 5 percent to $788,000. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Big Island prosecutors dealt with what they consider an alarming number of domestic strangulation cases last year — more than 50. Tribune-Herald.

Community volunteers maintain, monitor deserted national park. It was 18 days ago a partial government shutdown took effect, closing and de-staffing places like Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park in South Kona and leaving them unguarded from public whim. West Hawaii Today.

As the partial government shutdown enters its third week – reportedly with no end in sight – the signs of a federal funding lapse are becoming apparent at Puuhonua o Honaunau. Big Island Video News.

The Department of Public Safety reports that the old Hilo County Jail (built in the 1890s) is set for demolition soon. Big Island Now.

Home sales slowed on Big Island last year, but Kilauea fails to stop prices from rising. Home sales on Hawaii’s Big Island declined by 7 percent in 2018, compared to the year before, but the eruption of Kilauea volcano failed to stop prices, buoyed by double-digit gains in December, from rising. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Some 1.2 acres of land in Kapalua, Maui will be preserved as open space along the Kapalua Coastal Trail due to a donation from the Sue D. Cooley Trust, the Hawaiian Island Land Trust announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Hemp growers see hope on horizon after change in federal law. Cannabis growers looking for the next big thing after CBD craze. Maui News.

Kauai

As Hawaii looks at ways to become more self-sufficient in food production, people on Kauai are planting seeds that will feed the community decades down the road. Garden Island.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden and Kauai Community College present their first collaborative event of 2019 in the ongoing Earth Matters public lecture series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday with a panel discussion, “Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change.” Garden Island.

Obama encourages next generation at East-West Center, former Lt. Gov. Tsutsui to head Maui farm venture, Ige works to fill Cabinet, Jim Nabors' home sold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former President Barack Obama, courtesy Obama Foundation.

Former President Barack Obama stressed the importance of cultivating the next generation of leaders during a speech Sunday night at the East-West Center that harked back to his roots as a community organizer in Chicago. Star-Advertiser.

Obama: ‘We Have A Deficit of Leadership And We Need New Blood’. The former U.S. president launched a program in Hawaii this weekend aimed at nurturing future leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. Civil Beat.

Former President Obama speaks at UH Manoa for launch of foundation’s Asia-Pacific leadership program. Former President Barack Obama spoke at a private gathering Sunday at the East-West Center, his foundation's first major event in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Facebook video of Obama's address. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Is A Rising Progressive Star Despite Her Support For Hindu Nationalists. A possible run for president has prompted the Hawaii congresswoman to publicly distance herself while continuing to court them in private. Civil Beat.

Gov. Ige’s New Cabinet Is Still Almost Half Empty. He has made 11 appointments so far, and nine of the department heads are carryovers from his first term. Civil Beat.

The private money that’s keeping Hawaii’s national parks open is running out. Hawaii News Now.

Vacation rentals in Hawaii appear to have displaced timeshares as the third most sought-after lodging choice behind hotels and condominiums in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Public Safety violated federal law when it ignored a Halawa Correctional Facility inmate’s requests to engage in certain Native Hawaiian religious practices, according to a court ruling. Star-Advertiser.

Task Force Criticizes ‘Punitive Mentality’ Of Hawaii Criminal Justice System. The group opposes the construction of a bigger Oahu Community Correctional Center and calls for a new focus on rehabilitation. Civil Beat.

The Law Enforcement Standards Board is asking the state Legislature for additional time and money to create and implement statewide standards for training and certification of county and state law enforcement officers. Tribune-Herald.

State senators on Friday questioned why Gov. David Ige’s administration chose to file lawsuits over President Donald Trump’s immigration policies but declined to join in class- action litigation against drug manufacturers and distributors that are being blamed for the opioid epidemic across the country. Star-Advertiser.

Humane Society backs bill allowing dogs at restaurants. The Humane Society, along with its fellow animal rescue organizations on neighbor isles, is pushing for a bill this legislative session that would give restaurant owners the discretion to adopt dog-friendly policies. Star-Advertiser.

A new rule bans feeding and abandoning feral animals at small boat harbors statewide. Governor David Ige approved the rule in December 2018 in an effort to help protect native and endangered species being threatened by feral animals. KHON2.

The state Department of Accounting and General Services' annual small claims report shows the state paid $179,148.77 to resolve 174 claims during the last fiscal year. KHON2.

Oahu

Oahu home prices hit 2018 records amid slowing sales. The annual median price paid for a single-family home rose nearly 5 percent to a high of $790,000, and the annual median price paid for a condominium increased nearly 4 percent to a record $420,000. Star-Advertiser.

Deadline to Appeal Property Tax Assessments Approaching. Properties in several districts saw value increases around or above 10% last year, resulting in a higher tax bill for homeowners. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state senate candidate who's challenging his election loss calls Hawaii's recount law "unconstitutional." Matt LoPresti still holds out hope for a recount and he submitted a response to the Hawaii Supreme Court Friday. KITV.

State and city officials plan to temporarily postpone homeless sweeps a week before — and during — the upcoming annual Point in Time Count to try and ensure an accurate census of Oahu’s homeless population. Star-Advertiser.

Veggies Really Are Cheaper In Chinatown — If You Know How To Shop. The secret to bargain prices: An alternative network of local suppliers, low overhead, selling out daily and less fussiness about the perfect-shaped fruit or vegetable. Civil Beat.

New medical cannabis dispensary opening in Kaneohe. A new medical marijiana dispensary will be opening on the Windward side. KITV.

The sale of an oceanfront estate near Hawaii’s Diamond Head that belonged to the late Jim Nabors closed on Friday for $12 million to an undisclosed buyer. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Some $6.8 million in new fuel tax money barely survived a close County Council vote last month, but its future seems more assured now that the Department of Public Works has released a working list of resurfacing projects to be completed with the money. West Hawaii Today.

Keaau isn’t the only place the state has explored the idea of establishing a spaceport in recent years. Tribune-Herald.

A development expected to bring 450 units to Kailua-Kona is moving forward. Developers expect to file an application related to the project with the county’s Planning Department this week. West Hawaii Today.

The Thirty Meter Telescope keeps coming up in conversations at the Hawaii State Capitol. Big Island Video News.

National park closure creates sprawling consequences in, around Honaunau Bay. West Hawaii Today.

Developers seek to build 30-megawatt solar farms. The agreements require approval of the state Public Utilities Commission, and the documents were submitted for review Dec. 31. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Twenty-one businesses have asked the county to delay enforcement of the ban on foam containers until after they sell the last of their affected noodles, such as the popular Cup Noodles and Maruchan Instant Lunch. Maui News.

Mahi Pono could generate 1,000-plus jobs. Former lieutenant governor joins company, set to begin farming on 41,000 Maui acres, as new vice president. Maui News.

Former Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui will join Mahi Pono, LLC, as its Senior Vice President of Operations and will lead the farming venture on Maui. Maui Now.

Former Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui has been named senior vice president of operations of Mahi Pono LLC, the company that recently purchased 41,000 acres of former sugar cane land from Alexander & Baldwin Inc. Pacific Business News.

The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center on Maui is naming former state Sen. Jill Tokuda as its new executive director. Associated Press.

New Kahikinui renewable energy proposals sought. Process restarts after NextEra, Sempra efforts failThe Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is again seeking applicants for renewable energy projects in Kahikinui in southeast Maui after previous proposals, including one from a NextEra subsidiary, fell through. Maui News.

Kauai

Tourists Keep Coming To Queen’s Bath Despite The Deadly Danger. The county and a community association try to discourage visitors, especially during the wettest months, but tour books point the way. Civil Beat.

Anaina Hou Community Park’s new playground is open for business and already popular with local families, according to organizers. Garden Island.

The National Tropical Botanical Garden and Kauai Community College present their first collaborative event of 2019 in the ongoing Earth Matters public lecture series at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday with a panel discussion, “Building Resilience in the Face of Climate Change.” Garden Island.

Ige appoints Connors as attorney general, Honolulu officer cooperating with feds in police corruption case, Maui's new mayor takes office, Big Island water bottling plant unpopular, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Attorney General appointee Clare Connors with Gov. David Ige PC:Governor's Office

Gov. David Ige has appointed Clare Connors, a prominent local attorney and experienced litigator, to serve as Hawaii’s next attorney general, replacing Russell Suzuki. Star-Advertiser.

Governor’s pick for attorney general is longtime litigator — who sometimes targeted state. Hawaii News Now.

Former assistant U.S. attorney picked to be Hawaii's new attorney general. KHON2.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige Thursday appointed Clare Connors as the state’s new attorney general. Pacific Business News.

Governor David Ige today announced the appointment of Clare Connors to be the attorney general of the State of Hawaii, subject to Senate confirmation. Big Island Video News.

Gov. David Ige press release on appointment of Clare Connors as attorney general can be found here.

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‘I Feel The Energy’: Ed Case Returns To Congress. The Hawaii congressman is back in office after more than a decade. But things are very different. Civil Beat.

A key lawmaker Thursday accused the state Department of Education of lying about the size of the statewide backlog of repair and maintenance projects at Hawaii public schools. The DOE told lawmakers in January 2018 that the school repair and maintenance backlog was $293 million as of 2017, which was a significant drop from $392 million in 2010. However, later in the year DOE notified some lawmakers that the true backlog was $868 million. Star-Advertiser.

If You Thought Legislature Would Bury The Hatchet With Ige, Think Again. The House Finance Committee chair questions the trustworthiness and organizational structure of the governor’s administration. Civil Beat.

43 pedestrians died on Hawaii roadways in 2018. That’s more than the number killed in vehicles. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii cannabis advocates hope to work with state to set rules for hemp. While the federal government did pass the Farm Bill on December 20 making hemp and its products legal, there's still some confusion over how the state should set rules for this crop. KITV.

There’s a high probability an El Nino will form and persist through the winter and spring, bringing with it threats to corals and farming concerns as well as an increased risk of wildfires. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu-based electric utility Hawaiian Electric Cos. Thursday said it submitted the contracts for seven new solar-plus-storage projects across its service territory to the state Public Utilities Commission for review. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A Honolulu officer charged in the corruption case targeting Honolulu’s former police chief and his wife plans to change his plea to guilty. It’s a major development that could prove pivotal to prosecutors. Hawaii News Now.

One of the police officers indicted in a public corruption case involving former Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his wife, Katherine, has indicated he wants to change his plea. KHON2.

A Honolulu police sergeant charged in a corruption-related investigation targeting the department’s former chief and his former prosecutor wife is pleading guilty. Star-Advertiser.

The attorney for the Big Island firefighter wrapped up in the Kealoha conspiracy case said recent news stories about his client and the explicit messages he reportedly sent Katherine Kealoha are "salacious" and "irrelevant." KITV.

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A Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board committee Thursday recommended approval of a $7.5 million change order to settle a delay claim made by the company hired to build the rail project’s three Waipahu stations. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Is Short On Cops — And Seattle Is Poaching. Mainland police departments are making it easy for rookie and veteran officers to relocate. With 246 vacancies, the HPD may start doing the same. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council concerned after multiple recruits fired from Honolulu Fire Department. KHON2.

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The City and County of Honolulu is expanding its park security initiative to Windward Oahu and the North Shore. Starting Friday, crews will add locks to parking lots and comfort stations at 18 parks in an effort to prevent vandalism. Hawaii News Now.

Starting tonight, 59 city parks will be locked at night to curtail vandalism and illegal homeless activity. Star-Advertiser.

In the continuing effort to secure park facilities island-wide, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is expanding its securing parks initiative to District IV, including Windward Oahu and the North Shore (from Makapuu to Mokuleia). KHON2.

City expands securing parks initiative to 18 more parks. The initiative began in April 2018 with 25 parks in the urban Honolulu area. KITV.

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The president and CEO of Damien Memorial School is out after the institution’s owners cited conflicts in leadership style. Hawaii News Now.

Damien Memorial School announced today the appointment of Brother Brian M. Walsh to serve as president, replacing Wes Porter, who was the school’s leader the past 2-1/2 years. Star-Advertiser.

Sixth Howard Hughes condo goes on sale. The Koula condo tower will have 565 units and sit adjacent to the new Victoria Ward Park, where a pop-up LED flower garden now resides, on Auahi Street. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Windward Planning Commission postponed action on a proposed bottling plant near Wailoa River State Recreation Area to a future meeting, but that didn’t stop dozens of Big Island residents from testifying against it during the panel’s Thursday meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Water protectors, environmentalists, and supporters of the new organization, Extinction Rebellion, spoke out against an application for a Special Management Area Use Permit to develop a potable water well and bottling facility in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is being partially staffed during the federal government shutdown thanks to a little help from its friends. Tribune-Herald.

Retired Hawaii physician Charman J. Akina has donated 135 acres of land in South Kona to The Nature Conservancy that will provide habitat for rare native wildlife and plants. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

In his first day on the job, new Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino went to work announcing that landfills will once again open on Sundays and that his office will convene groups addressing Native Hawaiian culture and economic diversity and bringing together environmentalists and the hospitality industry. Maui News.

Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino took the oath of office on Wednesday morning from 2nd Circuit Chief Judge Joseph Cardoza, with First Lady Joycelyn Victorino, other family members, Maui County Council members and dignitaries looking on. Maui Now.

The new Maui County Council elected Kelly King as chairwoman, Keani Rawlins-Fernandez as vice chairwoman and Tasha Kama as presiding officer pro tempore during the council’s first meeting of the term on Wednesday. Maui News.

Featuring several new faces and a majority of women for the first time, the Maui County Council officially took office on Wednesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed a sixth supplementary emergency proclamation on Thursday for the County of Kauai, extending the emergency relief period for damages sustained during the April flooding. Garden Island.

Hawaii officials are planning to issue additional permits and extend the six-month trial period of pig hunting in a mountain area on Kauai. Associated Press.

Chipper Wichman, who has served as a backbone for the National Tropical Botanical Garden for 15 years, is turning over the position of chief executive officer and director to someone else. Garden Island.

Nude photos link Big Island firefighter to Honolulu deputy prosecutor's phone, lobbyist first to get medical aid in dying prescription, Honolulu Council in disarray, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Jesse Ebersole, Katherine Kealoha

Feds recover nude photos on Kealoha’s phone. When Hawaii County firefighter Jesse Ebersole pleaded guilty last July to lying about his relationship with former deputy prosecutor Katherine Kealoha, the federal prosecutor said investigators found Ebersole’s name on some of Kealoha’s credit card charges and had records of phone conversations between the two. Star-Advertiser.

Evidence of affair between Katherine Kealoha and firefighter included sexually explicit photos. The affair between ex-police chief Louis Kealoha’s wife and a Big Island firefighter was already one of the more salacious aspects of the ongoing case against the Kealohas. Hawaii News Now.

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He Fought For Hawaii’s Aid In Dying Law. Now He Wants To Use it. Prominent Honolulu lobbyist John Radcliffe, whose colon cancer has spread, became the first state resident Wednesday to start the application process. Civil Beat.

John Radcliffe became the first Hawaii patient with terminal cancer to request a lethal prescription to end his life under the state’s new medical- aid-in-dying law. Star-Advertiser.

Cancer patient John Radcliffe poised to be come first to use medical aid-in-dying law. KHON2.

Terminal cancer patient and medical aid-in-dying advocate John Radcliffe, today went on record as Hawaii’s first individual to request a prescription for aid-in-dying medication under a new law that took effect on Jan. 1. Maui Now.

It’s now law, but ‘Death With Dignity' still faces opposition while supporters push for acceptance. The day after Hawaii’s ‘Our Care, Our Choice Act' went into effect, supporters of the controversial medical aid in dying law said they’re making progress in getting hospitals to honor patients’ end of life decisions. Hawaii News Now.

Medical-aid-in-dying law gets a web page. State DOH sets up site to answer questions, provide required forms. Maui News.

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Masagatani, Aila Retained To Lead Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Governor David Ige on Wednesday announced that he is reappointing the director and deputy at Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Video News.

A Hawaii delegation recently returned from the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poland. Despite President Trump’s announcement to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement, Hawaii and 16 other states committed to abide it. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii Attorney General is opposing a change that a 92-year-old Native Hawaiian princess has made to her trust to ensure her wife receives $40 million and all her personal property. Associated Press.

The state is looking for information on how to operate housing programs over the next 20 years. To gather data, the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation will be calling homeowners and conducting phone surveys for the Hawaii Housing Planning Study. Hawaii News Now.

Southwest Airlines has moved one step closer to starting its long-promised service from the Mainland to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Council delays picking leaders, assignments and schedule. The turmoil is caused by legal challenges against the election of Trevor Ozawa, who won re-election to the Council District 4 seat by beating former state Rep. Tommy Waters by 22 votes. Star-Advertiser.

Most of Honolulu’s city council has been sworn in, but one seat is still open (technically). That's because the Hawaii Supreme Court is still reviewing Trevor Ozawa's 22-vote victory over opponent Tommy Waters. Hawaii News Now.

City Council meeting in recess, Supreme Court issues another order. District 4, from Hawaii Kai to Ala Moana Beach Park, will have to wait longer for a City Council representative. The Supreme Court issued another order Wednesday that gives election challengers more time. KHON2.

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Honolulu Councilwoman Carol Fukunaga wants to crack down on people who abandon their cars on Oahu, but city officials say her proposed solution wouldn’t work. Civil Beat.

Honolulu police and prosecutors declined to press charges against Bobby Curran following the local sports broadcaster’s Dec. 27 arrest for allegedly assaulting his 15-year-old son. Star-Advertiser.

The Ritz-Carlton’s ocean-facing skyscrapers are glaring bright all night, every night. For more than two years, the residents of the Four Paddle condominiums on Kuhio Avenue have been blinded by the light. Civil Beat.

One project that will get more attention in the new year in Honolulu is a plan to build a bridge over the Ala Wai canal. The proposal would include room for pedestrians and for cyclists, but not for cars. Hawaii Public Radio.

It was business as usual for most federally funded tourist attractions in Hawaii Wednesday despite the partial government shutdown continuing for the 12th day. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The Leilani Estates Community Association plans to drop its lawsuit against Hawaii County over control of Leilani Avenue. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island residents have the opportunity to participate in a series of training courses later this month to assist the county in responding to emergencies, in case 2019 proves as turbulent as 2018. Tribune-Herald.

Public access lacking – Kaupulehu project coming to County Council. It’s taken 20 years to get this far, but full build-out of the 1,079-acre Kaupulehu project in North Kona may need 20 more. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

During the first half of fiscal year 2019, the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development issued more than $9 million in grant funds to various local organizations. Maui Now.

Kapalua Golf's Plantation Course on Maui, which regularly ranks as one of the best golf courses in the world, will temporarily close on Feb. 11 to undergo a multimillion-dollar enhancement project aimed at revitalizing the 27-year-old sports facility. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Recent rains didn’t damage or delay the rebuilding project on Kahiliholo Road and the project is on schedule, according to county officials. Garden Island.

State officials are gearing up to extend trial pig hunting on Nounou Mountain (Sleeping Giant) after a six-month trial hunt yielded 13 harvests, and more archers are signing up. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism depends on vacation rentals, Honolulu council leadership questioned in election dispute, new laws in effect, Molokai mule trail closed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii beach scene ©2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved

Addicted To Airbnb: Hawaii’s Tourism Economy Depends On Illegal Vacation Rentals. While calls for a crackdown on short-term rentals grow louder, their rapid expansion accounts for a big chunk of the recent growth in the state’s largest industry. Civil Beat.

When the final numbers roll in for 2018, it's likely to be another record year for visitor arrivals to Hawaii. But as people consider what that sector may look like in 2019 and beyond, there may be a developing niche: medical tourism. Hawaii Public Radio.

Medical aid in dying law takes effect. For the first time, certain terminally ill patients in Hawaii will have the right to end their lives, but it won’t be easy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Medical Aid In Dying Law Now In Effect, Guidance Issued. Big Island Video News.

Fake service dogs, foam food containers and equal pay: These laws took effect Jan. 1. Hawaii News Now.

New laws address pay gap, sexual assault. Beginning today, employers are prohibited from asking prospective hires about their salary and wage history under a new law that seeks to help bridge the gap between how much men and women earn. Star-Advertiser.

Employers in Hawaii no longer will be allowed to inquire about prospective employees’ salary histories thanks to a law passed in July. Tribune-Herald.

Some road shoulders to open for motorcycles. In the new year, motorcyclists in Hawaii might have their travel time reduced by a law that will designate the shoulders of some roads as traversable by motorcycle. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmakers: After a noisy start to the new year, it’s time to crack down on illegal aerials. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: No, Killing A Special Fund Doesn’t Kill People. Some state agencies need to understand that the money in these funds isn’t “their” money. It comes from taxpayers. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Three topics sure to grab headlines in 2019 are the city’s rail project as construction moves through the congested downtown corridor; the housing crisis as policy makers wrestle with vacation rental laws and monster home rules; and the federal investigations involving Honolulu’s former police chief, his ex-prosecutor wife and the city prosecutor.  Star-Advertiser.

Council leadership remains in question. City Council members and their aides on Monday were trying to figure out ways to deal with the possibility that Councilman Trevor Ozawa may not be sworn in for a new term on Wednesday, the same day he had been expected to be voted Council chairman by his colleagues. Star-Advertiser.

On the eve of inauguration day for the Honolulu City Council, there's a big question mark hanging over the District 4 seat. The Supreme Court is weighing in after an opponent filed a challenge. With that Supreme Court decision pending, and the race not certified, Councilman Trevor Ozawa may not be sworn into office. KHON2.

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa may miss being sworn in to another term on Wednesday along with his colleagues if the Hawaii Supreme Court is still undecided on a legal challenge to his election win. Civil Beat.

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The state attorney general is opposing a change made to Abigail Kawananakoa’s trust that ensures her wife will receive $40 million and all of her personal property. Star-Advertiser.

Community leaders in Leeward Oahu are voicing opposition to the Palehua Wind project proposed for the Waianae range above their homes. Star-Advertiser.

Watch your water bills. That's the warning from some Pearl City residents who caught the Board of Water Supply billing them for more water than they used. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

The owner of the Hilo Farmers Market submitted plans last month for permanent canopies over the open-air market in an attempt to comply with the county’s fire, building and zoning codes. Tribune-Herald.

The long-discussed East Hawaii Organics Facility will be constructed on the north side of the W.H. Shipman Business Park in Keaau, and will have no significant impact according to the final environmental assessment document published for the project. Big Island Video News.

A discharge of about 66,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater was discharged into the ocean this weekend at the county’s Kulaimano wastewater treatment plant in Pepeekeo. Tribune-Herald.

The Vog Is Gone — For The First Time In Decades. Kilauea didn’t just stop spewing lava. It ceased emissions that have been constant since 1983. Civil Beat.

Maui

Since securing support from her colleagues, Council Member Kelly King has been the de facto chair of the incoming Maui County Council, making decisions on the inauguration ceremony, proposing committees and even moving into the chair’s office on Monday. Maui News.

A year of climate and political change 2018. Storms of all persuasions, even an actual firestorm, descended upon the county. Maui News.

Unlike past government shutdowns, Haleakala National Park is still open. Access to most areas continues, services limited. Maui News.

Maui County’s purchase of 262 acres of A&B agriculture land in the lower Pulehu/Omaopio area of Kula has closed escrow, according to information released today by the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. Maui Now.

Maui County purchases 262 acres from Alexander & Baldwin. Maui County closed on a $6 million purchase of 262 acres of Alexander & Baldwin’s agriculture land in the lower Pulehu/Omapio area on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Reopening the Road to Haena. This past April, Kuhio Highway on Kauai’s North Shore was devastated by heavy flooding. Road repairs are now nearing completion. Hawaii Public Radio.

Though the U.S. Navy recently announced it was moving forward with testing and training in the Hawaii-Southern California training area, the public still has a chance to weigh in on some other pending training. Garden Island.

Molokai

A steep trail to the remote Kalaupapa settlement in Hawaii has been closed indefinitely after a landslide took out a bridge along one of the switchbacks. Associated Press.

Hawaii Supreme Court weighs in on Honolulu council race, complaint filed over GOP campaign finance, media weigh in on top 2018 stories, new laws for 2019, more top state and local government news from all the Hawaiian islands

Diamond Head aerial view ©2018 All Hawaii News

No fishing at Waikiki to Diamond Head shoreline in 2019. Environmental advocates like the idea of a closure, but think the time frame needs to be longer for it to be effective. KITV.

More than two years after Gov. David Ige’s administration unveiled a 10-year, $378 million plan to escalate the state’s fight against invasive species, much of it remains unfunded and the governor plans to ask the Legislature to provide only a fraction of what was envisioned for the next two fiscal years. Star-Advertiser.

A longtime critic of the Hawaii Republican Party is alleging top state GOP leaders violated federal campaign spending laws by illegally funneling excess contributions to Cam Cavasso during his campaign for the U.S. House this year, but Republican Party Chairwoman Shirlene Ostrov says the party assistance to the Cavasso campaign was legal. Star-Advertiser.

A new law that goes into effect Tuesday aims to put a tighter leash on dog owners who fraudulently try to pass their pets off as service animals. Star-Advertiser.

With the 2018 hurricane season now behind us, the state has mailed out surveys to some Hawaii residents asking how prepared they are to face a major hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Ceded Lands Revenue Debate Simmers At Capitol. Big Island Video News.

Ahi prices are up as tradition is coming at a higher cost. KHON2.

The year that was 2018 might best be known in Hawaii for its explosions — the ones that did happen and the big one that didn’t. Star-Advertiser.

As the year comes to an end, Hawaii News Now takes a look back at the impressive and unforgettable stories of 2018 in this digital documentary. Hawaii News Now.

Star-Advertiser photographers pick their photos of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State Supreme Court to decide fate of City Council race with razor-thin win. Nearly eight weeks after the general election, one of the closest races still hasn’t officially been decided. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Supreme Court says elections of Ozawa, Fevella uncertified. On Friday, the five Justices ordered state and city election officials to provide the following to Waters and LoPresti: information setting forth the margin of error for the electronic vote counting machines when applying the tabulation procedures, and -information setting forth how the intent of the voter is ensured in a close election without a hand count. KHON2.

Impeachment Waits While City Considers Paying Kaneshiro’s Legal Fees. A judge puts the case on hold to give the City Council time to decide if taxpayers must provide the prosecuting attorney with a lawyer. Civil Beat.

The petition to oust Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is being described as uncharted waters. KHON2.

A new report by Honolulu Auditor Edwin Young concludes that a ban on foam or polystyrene food containers on Oahu would not reduce litter on the island, but would negatively affect some smaller businesses. Star-Advertiser.

More than 100,000 residents and visitors are expected to view the annual Fireworks by Grucci display that will begin at 11:55 p.m. tonight from a barge in waters off Waikiki Beach. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Leilani Estates residents are giving up on a lawsuit they filed against Hawaii County that would have returned a security checkpoint to the neighborhood devastated by lava. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council is being asked to add projects related to damage caused by recent disasters to the capital budget and accept funds for a recovery plan for Puna. Tribune-Herald.

The partial closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park does not appear to be keeping tourists away from Volcano, to the relief of businesses that depend on them. Tribune-Herald.

With a new year just around the corner, improvements at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole continue. West Hawaii Today.

Aloha, 2018! The Tribune-Herald’s top stories of the year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Fate of Fong land in Keokea now up in the air. Dispute over water meters, subdivision puts Grandma’s site in question. Maui News.

Applications and proposals for a recycling grant program through the county Department of Environmental Management are being accepted for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. Maui News.

A project to honor Maui County’s Mayors and Managing Directors was unveiled Thursday afternoon featuring a Wall of Mayors and a Wall of Managing Directors on the 9th Floor of the County Building in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO, will be the keynote speaker at the Jan. 15 meeting of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Top 10 stories: A look back at 2018. Garden Island.

State keeps Pearl Harbor open in federal shutdown, FEMA sending $61M to Big Island, Ozawa to be Honolulu council chairman, Kalapana band founder Bilyeu dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Arizona Memorial, courtesy NPS

The Hawaii Tourism Authority on Thursday agreed to provide $126,000 in emergency funding to keep the USS Arizona Memorial visitor center staffed and open during the partial government shutdown — which could extend into the new year. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency funds approved to keep Pearl Harbor monument open as shutdown drags on. Hawaii News Now.

How Pearl Harbor Historic Sites stay open during government shutdown. KHON2.

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Hawaii won’t top earlier projections of 10 million visitors this year, but is still expected to have record tourism. There were more tourists visiting the islands year over year in November, with total arrivals up 4.3 percent to 781,990, according to the latest report released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono announced today that she will donate pay she receives during the partial government shutdown to food banks in all four counties across Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hirono says she’ll donate salary earned during government shutdown. Hawaii News Now.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says state agencies have been vastly under­reporting to the Legislature the amount of revenue they are generating from the state’s public land trust and that OHA’s share of that revenue should be more than double what it’s currently receiving. Star-Advertiser.

OHA Wants A Lot More Ceded Land Money From The State. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs says the annual cap of $15.1 million is too low and that state agencies should do a better job reporting their revenues. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii is expected to sign a new contract with the U.S. Navy for $80 million worth of research during the next five years for projects ranging from cybersecurity to renewable energy. Civil Beat.

Here’s a look at some of the laws set to take effect in the new year. Hawaii News Now.

Injured Workers Still Searching For Relief. A key lawmaker is promising to again pursue reforms in Hawaii’s workers’ comp system during the upcoming legislative session. Civil Beat.

Malani Bilyeu, founding member of iconic Hawaiian band Kalapana, dies. Hawaii News Now.

Malani Bilyeu, founding member of Kalapana, dies. KHON2.

Malani Bilyeu, founding member of Kalapana, and Hoku Award-winning solo artist, dies. Star-Advertiser.

Sashimi prices are still uncertain as the new year approaches. It’s still too soon to say what kind of prices customers will face as demand for sashimi rises with the arrival of the New Year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Trevor Ozawa will likely take the gavel as chairman of the Honolulu City Council when the new Council meets for the first time Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

East Honolulu Councilman Trevor Ozawa could be the new chairman of the Honolulu City Council, replacing his political ally Ernie Martin, who leaves office at the end of the year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Over $61 Million From FEMA For Hawaii County After Eruption, Hurricane. According to a series of communications from Hawaii County Finance Director Deanna Sako to the Hawaii County Council, FEMA is providing funds to be used for the repair of damages from the eruption of Kilauea Volcano, as well as the flooding caused by Hurricane Lane. Big Island Video News.

An environmental assessment is being drafted for a proposed small satellite launch facility in East Hawaii. The Alaska Aerospace Corp. operates the Pacific Spaceport Complex on Kodiak Island and wants to build its next site for launches closer to the equator. Tribune-Herald.

The Alaska Aerospace Corporation is considering developing a commercial spaceport on the Island of Hawaii, possibly in the Keaau area. Big Island Video News.

Puna Geothermal Venture’s $150,000 donation to Hawaii County aimed at helping Puna residents affected by the Kilauea eruption was unrelated to its request to build an emergency access road over the lava flow, says its Hawaii representative. Tribune-Herald.

Tourism to the Big Island was down from last year for the sixth month in a row in November, according to preliminary data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Lieutenant Governor Josh Green will deliver the keynote address at the Maui County Council inauguration on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019 at 10 a.m. in the Council Chamber. Maui Now.

Council organizational meeting set for Jan. 2. Maui News.

A bill restricting the use and sale of polystyrene foam food service containers in Maui County goes into effect on Monday, Dec. 31, 2018. Maui Now.

Kauai

Zuckerberg Could Still Absorb Tiny Parcels Into His Estate. The Facebook founder said he would no longer try to acquire “kuleana” parcels held by families for generations on Kauai’s North Shore, but now they’re being auctioned off. Civil Beat.

On The Rebound: Natural Resources Bounce Back After April Floods. Hawaii Public Radio.

While some federal programs are screeching to a halt as a result of the ongoing government shutdown, life on Kauai is pretty much business as usual. Garden Island.

The tourism industry on Kauai is continuing a strong push to the finish of 2018. Garden Island.

Navy issues EIS for sonar testing, training; Ige reappoints three department heads; Pearl Harbor stays open amid federal shutdown; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale feeding, breeding zones. NOAA

The U.S. Navy is moving forward with training and testing in Hawaii-Southern California waters after re-evaluating potential environmental impacts of their activities. “These military readiness activities include the use of active sonar and explosives at sea off the coasts of Hawaii and Southern California,” according to the final EIS. Garden Island.

Read the Navy's Hawaii-Southern California Training and Testing Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement here.

Winter on Maui means it’s time for humpback whales. More than half of the North Pacific humpback whale population, estimated at over 20,000 strong, visit the waters of Maui Nui each year. Hawaii Magazine.

The year 2018 has been a record one for Hawaiian monk seal pups born in the main Hawaiian isles, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige has reappointed leaders at three state departments, his office announced today, including the Department of Transportation, Department of Human Resources Development and Department of Taxation. Star-Advertiser.

Tatum takes over at HTA amid tourism challenges. Created by the Legislature in 1998, the tourism authority believes it’s found a power hitter in Chris Tatum. Star-Advertiser.

Court Cases Open Window Into Marshallese Adoptions. A lawsuit by a Kentucky couple alleges that an Arkansas attorney offered to fly a Marshallese birth mother to the U.S. despite a treaty that bars such travel. Civil Beat.

Japanese-Americans are more likely to accumulate fat in their liver and abdomen compared to other ethnicities. That's according to the latest research from the University of Hawaii's Cancer Center. Hawaii Public Radio.


YEAR IN REVIEW: The repercussions of Hawaii’s false missile alert are still being felt. Hawaii News Now.


YEAR IN REVIEW: Remembering this year’s record breaking hurricane season. Hawaii’s 2018 hurricane season was among the most destructive in years. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii taxpayers claim close to $86M in renewable energy tax credits in 2016. The state of Hawaii dished out $85.8 million in renewable energy tax credits in 2016, down from $98.6 million during the previous year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

As government shutdown drags on, nonprofits scramble to keep Pearl Harbor monument open. Despite the partial government shutdown, the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument is still open — thanks to the generosity of several nonprofits. Hawaii News Now.


Since the government's partial shutdown several Hawaii national parks have seen a shake-up in services. But places like the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, - a historic site that drew in just under 2-million visitors last year - according to park stats isn't one that's closing quietly. KITV.

Not Everyone’s Thrilled To Have A Film Crew In The Neighborhood. “Magnum P.I.” is generating complaints from businesses and residents about the way it commandeers streets and parking places. Civil Beat.

Fraud alleged in local trash company bankruptcy. A commercial refuse hauler that stiffed the city on $3 million in garbage disposal fees may not have actually dumped that debt obligation through bankruptcy two years ago. Star-Advertiser.


The trains may one day run on time, but the construction of the track certainly hasn't. At $8.3 billion, not including finance charges, the Honolulu rail project is the largest public works project in Hawaii history and, according to a policy analyst at the conservative think tank Cato Institute, "the most expensive per capita of any publicly funded rail project in the modern age." U.S. News & World Report.


Twelve parcels of land for sale, including the Willows, could change Moiliili neighborhood. KHON2.


Back in business: Ala Wai Community and Neighborhood parks re-open. Since October, the parks have been closed for crews to revamp the public areas. KITV.


With students out of school for winter break, families hoping to check out certain libraries are out of luck. Three Oahu branches are temporarily closed because of emergency work or other issues. Hawaii News Now.

State orders brothers to fix decrepit Kakaako roads or stop charging for parking. A state agency is ordering two brothers to either fix up the streets they claim they own in Kakaako or stop charging parking fees. Hawaii News Now.


A former U.S. Housing and Urban Development employee accused of collecting Section 8 rental assistance on properties she and her husband managed and controlled pleaded not guilty in U.S. District Court Wednesday to five counts of wire fraud. Star-Advertiser.


The new year means changes for some fishermen. Starting January 1, 2019, the Waikiki-Diamond Head shoreline will be off-limits for fishing. The ban will last for all of 2019. KHON2.


Firecracker permit sales drop in Honolulu for New Year’s. Firecracker permit sales are down this year with 3,000 fewer sold compared to last year, the Honolulu Fire Department reported. Star-Advertiser.


A couple of Nevada residents are suing to evict the people living in Duane “Dog” Chapman’s Portlock home because Chapman and his wife have allegedly defaulted on their house payments. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Harry Kim thanked Puna Geothermal Venture executives for a six-figure donation, a short time before the company was granted permission to cut an access road over the inactive lava channel that isolated the company’s power plant during the summer eruption of Kilauea Volcano. Big Island Video News.


Ookala residents frustrated by latest dairy discharge. On Monday, Big Island Dairy, which is set to cease operations next year, discharged nearly 600,000 gallons of wastewater into Kaohaoha Gulch. Tribune-Herald.


Report examines benefits, feasibility of basalt facility. A new study commissioned by the Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems suggests the island could make a name for itself in this small but growing industry. Tribune-Herald.

Alii Drive culvert replacement project delayed. A county project to replace a deteriorating culvert on Alii Drive will get started a little later than previously estimated. West Hawaii Today.


Making Food More Affordable For The Hungry. Nearly 13 percent of Hawaii Island residents are “food insecure,” according to the USDA — well above the statewide average. Civil Beat.

21st Annual Mochi Pounding Set For Dec. 29 At Akiko’s. Traditional mochi pounding will return to the small village of Wailea this weekend, and the public is invited. Big Island Video News.


Maui

The South Maui Parking Lots Improvements Project will continue construction with the closure of Keawakapu Beach parking lot, at the corner of Kilohana Drive and South Kihei Road, on Wednesday, Jan. 2. Maui Now.

The comment period for the Kalaupapa National Historical Park General Management Plan and Environmental Assessment has been extended to Feb. 1. Maui News.


Maui’s law banning foam takeout containers goes into effect at the end of the year. The county law bans polystyrene foam food containers, which popular local plate lunches are typically served in. Associated Press.


Hale Kau Kau: 1.5 Million Meals and Counting. Today, South Maui’s only daily soup kitchen, Hale Kau Kau, served its 10,000th consecutive day of meal service. Maui Now.


Kauai

Kauai officials have agreed to pay $1 million to the family of a man who died after being hit by a police cruiser. Associated Press.

Kauai Medical Clinic recently broke ground on its new 7,900-square-foot facility at the Safeway-anchored Kauai Village Shopping Center. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

The comment period for the Kalaupapa National Historical Park General Management Plan and Environmental Assessment has been extended to Feb. 1. Maui News.