Ige nixes furloughs, Green leads Caldwell in campaign donations, FEC sends $24M for broadband improvements, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. David Ige

Ige: No Furloughs Necessary This Year. In the latest wrinkle in the long-running saga of proposed public worker furloughs, Gov. David Ige said Wednesday it won’t be necessary to impose twice-per-month furloughs on state workers on July 1 after all. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers Want Their ‘Gifts Of Aloha’ Back. Several bills this session attempt to shirk new rules from the state Ethics Commission. Civil Beat.

State senators advance confirmation of acting labor director. Despite ongoing problems with the state’s unemployment system, the acting state labor director got a vote of confidence from members of the state Senate. Hawaii News Now.

Senate Bill Would Force Dept. of Education to Report COVID-19 Cases by School. Right now, the Department of Education only reveals COVID-19 cases by complex area. KITV4.

Green Leads Caldwell In Campaign Donations For Next Governor’s Race. The lieutenant governor and former Honolulu mayor are likely competitors in the 2022 contest. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boy Nick Ochs Charged With Criminal Conspiracy. A new indictment unsealed Wednesday by the U.S. Justice Department accuses Ochs of several new crimes that carry heftier penalties. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Annual police misconduct reports released for the first time with officer names.  Annual police misconduct reports from all the counties have been submitted to the Hawaii State Legislature. KHON2.

FCC Awards $24 Million to Hawaiian Telecom for Rural Broadband Deployment. The Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund has awarded Hawaiian Telecom $24 million to continue deploying fiber broadband service to unserved and underserved rural areas in Hawai‘i. Maui Now.

Bills would make catalytic converter theft a felony in Hawaii. Increasing demand for stolen precious metals contained in vehicle catalytic converters has prompted two bills that would make thefts of catalytic converters a Class C felony and require more documentation from sellers and Hawaii scrap dealers willing to buy them. Star-Advertiser.

With COVID precautions in place, influenza cases in Hawaii are near zero. Hawaii has so far dodged what health experts feared could be a “twindemic,” with COVID-19 combined with the flu, which has virtually disappeared since last summer. Star-Advertiser.

Remaining diligent; Contact tracers still at work as COVID vaccine rollout continues. Nearly 300 contact tracers are still at work in Hawaii as the focus in the fight against COVID-19 has turned largely to ongoing vaccination efforts. Tribune-Herald.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 3: 74 New COVID-19 Infections And 4 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 74 new cases Wednesday, including 41 on Oahu, 23 on Maui, four on the Big Island, and six Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Chief Susan Ballard says HPD still investigating COVID overtime violations. The Honolulu Police Department is continuing its investigation into apparent overtime violations within the department’s COVID-19 enforcement teams, according to Police Chief Susan Ballard. Star-Advertiser.

‘Significant’ Disparity In Use Of Force Questioned By Honolulu Police Commission. Honolulu police commissioners say they are concerned over the Honolulu Police Department’s treatment of Pacific Islanders, Native Hawaiians and Black people when it comes to use of force and even arrest rates. Civil Beat.

Judge Sends Former Cop Who Flipped On The Kealohas To Prison. A former Big Island firefighter who admitted to having an affair with Katherine Kealoha received a much more lenient sentence. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

The teen suspect in a nationwide cell phone hacking scheme was arrested in Aina Haina on Wednesday morning and now faces three felony charges. HPD sources say he’s just 16 years old and in the 11th grade. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kern confirmed: Council votes 5-4 on new planning director. Zendo Kern was confirmed Wednesday as county planning director by the skin of his teeth, after Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball switched her vote and decided to support him. West Hawaii Today.

COVID Test Surplus Could Help Reopen Big Island High Schools. The discovery of a surplus of COVID-19 antigen tests has created a potential path to bring Big Island high school students back into the classroom. Big Island Now.

Council approves funding for changes to Kalanianaole project. The County Council passed a bill to provide funding for changes to the long-delayed Kalanianaole Avenue improvement project. Tribune-Herald.

Community Opposition Grows in Kohala Over Proposed Development Near Pololū Valley Lookout. The proposal would improve access to the area’s popular hiking trail, but it could also open the door to residential development on the valley ridgeline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Settlement claims bills include 2 items related to Big Island charter schools. A pair of companion bills introduced in the state Legislature requesting more than $1.73 million to pay off claims against the state include a couple of Hawaii Island cases, both including Big Island public charter schools. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County granted $40M in rent, utilities assistance from COVID relief. Maui Mayor Mike Victorino announced on Tuesday, Feb. 2, that Maui County is set to receive $40 million for relief from delinquent rent and utility bills in the next round of COVID relief funding. KHON2.

Maui Shark Encounter Detailed, Experts Say Bite Mark is Consistent with a White Shark. Maui Now. KHON2.

Kauai

Amendments made to Westside beach driving bill. Wednesday, the state Senate’s Committee on Land and Water amended and removed Kekaha Beach Park specific portions of a bill that would require permits to drive on the beach. Garden Island.

Wailua Golf Course short $250K. Keeping tee-time rates low at the Wailua Golf Course comes at a price. This fiscal year, that may be about $250,000 that the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation is estimating the Golf Fund will fall short. Garden Island.

Monk Seals Found Dead In Kauai Likely Drowned In Fishing Nets. Two endangered Hawaiian monk seals initially thought to have been shot or beaten last year in Kauai likely drowned after getting trapped in fishing nets, officials said Wednesday. Civil Beat. Big Island Now. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Saiki seeks to remove university from Mauna Kea management, new coronavirus variants found in islands, CVS to being vaccinations, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Snow-capped Mauna Kea ©2021 All Hawaii News

House Speaker Scott Saiki calls for new Mauna Kea management by replacing UH with a “new governance structure” for the site. In a speech calling for islandwide unity, House Speaker Scott Saiki on Tuesday said the University of Hawaii needs to stop pursuing a new management lease for Mauna Kea, the site of mass protests and arrests over the proposed Thirty Meter Telescope. Star-Advertiser.

Saiki Wants To Take Mauna Kea Management Away From UH. Details on a new governance committee proposed by the Hawaii House speaker that would investigate a new management structure have yet to be seen. Civil Beat.

Saiki: UH not fit to manage mountain. The University of Hawaii’s director of Maunakea stewardship said the university will continue its process to renew the master lease for the mountain, which hosts several of the world’s premier astronomical observatories. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmakers Seek Change in Maunakea Management. Lawmakers announced plans Tuesday to introduce legislation that would reassess a new governance structure for Maunakea. Big Island Now.

Speaker Saiki called on UH to stop managing Mauna Kea. UH has been under fire for its role in the controversial Thirty-Meter Telescope project at the summit of the mountain. KITV4.

=====

House Leader Lays Out Proposals For Accountability, Land And Tourism. In a major policy speech on Tuesday, Hawaii House Speaker Scott Saiki called for several changes to state government, including an effort to consolidate watchdog agencies. Civil Beat.

Committee Scraps Proposal For Rent Control Law. But a measure to end the income tax deduction for mortgage interest on second homes advances. Civil Beat.

Bill would mandate disclosure of COVID-19 cases at Hawaii public schools. A bill that would require the Department of Education to publish a weekly report on schools that have COVID-19 cases among students and staff will get its first hearing today in the Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Feeding Feral Chickens Could Result In $500 Penalty. A bill before the Hawaii Legislature also calls for Health Department and county police enforcement. Civil Beat.

Child Advocacy Groups Hope to Fill Gaps in Services Amid Steep Budget Cuts. A top concern for advocates is how COVID-19 has highlighted inequalities for Hawaii’s children. Hawaii Public Radio.

Survey finds Hawaii businesses reeling from lost revenue, cutting jobs, and expecting a long road to recovery. A new survey by the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce Foundation found businesses are not only continuing to suffer from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but do not expect to recover for at least another year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines warns more layoffs to come. Hawaiian Airlines may have to lay off hundreds of workers once again despite hopes of making a comeback. KHON2.

State workers in limbo, unsure of when they’ll get a COVID-19 vaccine. Confusion and frustration lingers over Hawaii’s vaccine roll out as union leaders say state workers are upset with the lack of planning from the Ige administration. Hawaii News Now.

State Lab Detects More COVID-19 Variants in Hawai‘i. More variants of the coronavirus have been detected in Hawai‘i, according to a report from the state Department of Health on Tuesday. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

CVS to begin offering COVID-19 vaccines at 7 Longs Drugs in Hawaii starting Feb. 11. The participating Longs Drugs are in Hilo, Honolulu, Kahului, Kaneohe and Kapaa. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. KHON2. KITV4.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 2: 64 New COVID-19 Infections. Hawaii health officials reported 64 new cases including 41 on Oahu, 17 on Maui, four on the Big Island, and two Hawaii residents diagnosed outside of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Governor pushes back against efforts to ease COVID restrictions on Oahu. Gov. David Ige said Tuesday he is unlikely to support any efforts to loosen Oahu’s tiered reopening system anytime soon. Hawaii News Now.

Years-long Kealoha mailbox case to come to an end as last 2 defendants are sentenced. Jesse Ebersole, a former Big Island firefighter, and retired Honolulu police officer Niall Silva are expected to get anywhere from probation to months of confinement. Hawaii News Now.

State Seeks Someone To Build And Finance New Oahu Jail. It appears lawmakers won’t fund a new jail to replace OCCC, so the state is looking to the private sector. Civil Beat.

Landowner donates 300 acres of Oahu forestland for state natural area reserve. A 300-acre parcel of rainforest visible from near the summit of the popular Hawaii Loa Ridge Trail on Oahu will now become protected public land due to generous donations, state officials announced today. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Downtown restaurant passes inspection after mask violation citation. Doner Shack, recently issued a red “Closed” placard from the state Department of Health for a face mask violation has been reissued a green “Pass” placard, department officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii drafts plan to host football games in Manoa. The University of Hawaii is looking to add about 6,000 seats to its Manoa practice football field to play games over the next three years if Aloha Stadium remains closed. Star-Advertiser.

Judge removes private ruler of several Kakaako roads. A winding case of litigation over private use of several Kakaako roads took a hard turn Tuesday, with a judge ruling that the state owns the disputed streets. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Lawyer sues county over Sunshine Law, seeks to stop Zendo Kern confirmation vote. A Hilo lawyer filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking to stop the confirmation vote of Planning Director Zendo Kern, saying council members violated the state Sunshine Law during last month’s preliminary confirmation before the council Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Charity tax write-off measure held for more work. A bill that would allow taxpayers who were socked with an extra luxury home tax last year donate that tier 2 tax to charity instead was postponed for tweaks Tuesday, after drawing mixed reviews from the County Council Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

COVID-19 Cluster Identified at Coffee Farm in Kona. The Department of Health has identified a COVID-19 cluster at a coffee farm in Kona. Out of about 100 employees, 18 workers were diagnosed with the coronavirus, Steve Bader, executive assistant from the Mayor’s Office, told Hawai‘i County Council’s Governmental Operations, Relations and Economic Development Committee this morning. Big Island Now.

Additional Big Isle sites to get vaccinated. Big Island pharmacies are beginning to offer in-store COVID-19 vaccinations. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Sears closing after 36 years in Hilo mall. Prince Kuhio Plaza might seek a new tenant after Sears, one of the mall’s oldest stores, closes later this year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Panel: Fast-track projects should be 75% affordable. The Maui County Council’s Affordable Housing Committee on Monday voted to recommend approval of a bill that would tighten affordable housing requirements for projects seeking fast-track approval under a state law. Maui News.

Maui County to receive $40 million for rent and utility assistance. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino announced that the County will receive $40 million in federal funds to assist local households, earning 80 percent or below area median income, for relief from delinquent rent and utility bills. KITV4.

Kauai

Virus variant found on Kaua‘i. The state Department of Health and private laboratories have detected a COVID-9 variant on three islands, including Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Coastal path nominated as one of country’s best. During the last Lihu‘e Business Association virtual meeting, LBA President Pat Griffin announced that Kaua‘i Path Executive Director Tommy Noyes got a call from USA Today informing him Ke Ala Hele Makalae, the Eastside multi-use coastal route, has been nominated by USA Today as one of the nation’s 10 best recreational trails. Garden Island.

Ka Lae Kiki estate in Poipu closes at $10.5 million. Kaua‘i Realtor Hannah Sirois recently closed on the Ka Lae Kiki estate on the Poipu oceanfront for $10.5 million. Garden Island.

Pandemic or not, Hawaii still satisfies tourists, Green says gatherings may be able to resume in May, vaccine distribution irks and confuses, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Hawaiian kayakers at beach ©2021 All Hawaii News

Most mainland visitors satisfied with trips to Hawaii, study says. Most visitors are aware of Hawaii’s pre-travel testing program, and are mostly satisfied with their recent trips to the islands, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, but 21% are still having issues with the process. Star-Advertiser.

HTA survey: Visitors satisfied with Hawaii trips, despite COVID limitations. Most visitors to the state in late December and early January were satisfied with their experience, despite the limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Tourism Survey: 85% of Visitors Rated Trip Excellent Despite COVID-19 Challenges. The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) conducted a special online survey of US mainland visitors to gauge their experience with Hawaiʻi’s Safe Travels program and overall trip satisfaction and found 85 percent rated their trip “Excellent” and 94 percent said their trip exceeded or met expectations. Maui Now.

=====

Lt. Gov. Josh Green expects large gatherings will safely resume in May. More than 150,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered across the state, and the rate of people receiving vaccinations continues to increase. Star-Advertiser.

Green Proposes New Plan For Reopening Hawaii As Vaccine Distribution Ramps Up. The proposal calls for reopening interisland — and then mainland travel — to people who have been vaccinated for COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Green: At current vaccination rates, larger events could return this spring. Lt. Gov. Josh Green, a Big Island physician, said Monday that he anticipates Hawaii will be safe enough to permit larger gatherings this spring. Tribune-Herald.

=====

Casino could increase sex trade, report warns. A state agency that works toward equality for women and girls issued a blistering report Monday outlining the ills associated with casinos, particularly as they relate to the sex trade, marking the latest challenge for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands as it tries to move forward on a contentious proposal to build a casino resort to bring in desperately needed revenue for housing on Hawaiian trust lands. Star-Advertiser. Garden Island. KHON2. KITV4.

Hawaii GOP resignations over tweets reflect national Republican divide. The local head of the Republican Party, Shirlene DelaCruz Ostrov, has resigned following an unauthorized series of tweets on the group’s Twitter account that defended people supporting baseless QAnon conspiracy theories and led her to reassure the Jewish community that the comments have no place in our party. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Schools To Get $56M in Title I Funds This Year. The amount reflects a $2 million increase from the same type of appropriation last year. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Airport upgrades are on a roll, but special-fund sweep looms. As the state stares down a multibillion-dollar budget shortfall, some are looking to tap cash in a slew of special funds. That includes transportation accounts, money the airports division says it needs to keep up with new projects and fixes. KHON2.

New bill attempts to raise penalties for stolen catalytic converter sales. One car part that continues to be targeted by thieves is catalytic converters, which if stolen, can put a person out a thousand dollars to fix. KHON2. KITV4.

Bills target the use of ‘deep fakes’ in Hawaii. Deep fake technology enables the manipulation of photos or videos where one person in an existing image or video is replaced with another. Tribune-Herald.

Despite the state’s efforts to explain its phased approach, complaints are pouring in. Lt. Gov. Josh Green says the Department of Health has received hundreds of calls from businesses asking whether their employees qualify for the vaccination. Hawaii News Now.

Dr. Sarah Park leaves DOH; has been on paid leave since Sept. 4. The embattled state epidemiologist blamed for slowing Hawaii’s coronavirus response has quietly left the Department of Health. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates Say Pacific Islanders Should Be On Hawaii’s Vaccination List. Here’s Why. Service providers fear Hawaii’s vaccination effort is failing to reach Pacific Islander communities that have been hit hardest by the coronavirus. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Feb. 1: 90 New COVID-19 Infections. Hawaii health officials reported 90 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, including 57 on Oahu, 19 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, one on Kauai, and six residents diagnosed outside of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City offers extension option on second installment for real property. The City says it will offer taxpayers an alternative option due to the ongoing pandemic. KHON2.

Roger Morton named city Transportation Services director; Jon Nouchi returns as deputy. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi has appointed Roger Morton as the city’s Department of Transportation Services director, effective today. Star-Advertiser.

New Police Disciplinary Reports Reveal Serious Misconduct By Dozens Of Officers. The Honolulu Police Department disciplined more officers in 2020 than it has in at least three years, according to a new summary of misconduct filed with the Legislature on Monday. Civil Beat. KHON2.

‘Super powers’ proposed for Aloha Stadium replacement agency. Redeveloping the state’s deteriorating Aloha Stadium with a private partner could speed up this year under a “super power” bill introduced at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Red Hill fuel tanks have always leaked, Sierra Club says. From the beginning, the Navy’s Red Hill underground fuel tanks have leaked, said David Kimo Frankel, an attorney for the Sierra Club. Star-Advertiser.

Affordable rentals available in upscale condo tower at Ala Moana. The developer of Azure Ala Moana, predominantly a condominium high-rise at Keeaumoku and Makaloa streets, expects to hold a lottery in August to select tenants for 78 affordable rental units in the tower. Star-Advertiser.

As Waikiki Beach continues to erode, another project to replenish sand is starting up. Through a public-private partnership, a beach maintenance project using hydraulic dredging and pumping will move 20,000 cubic yards of sand offshore onto Waikiki Beach. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth hopes to be cleared to return to work this week. Mayor Mitch Roth hopes to be cleared to return to work this week as he continues his recovery from a Jan. 9 heart attack and subsequent procedure to have a pacemaker and defibrillator implanted. West Hawaii Today.

Ethics Board asked to invalidate Rodenhurst: Petition alleges Richards should have recused himself on confirmation. A Big Island resident is asking the county Board of Ethics to invalidate Public Works Director Ikaika Rodenhurst’s confirmation by the County Council, saying Kohala Councilman Tim Richards should have recused himself from voting because he served as a reference on Rodenhurst’s resume. West Hawaii Today.

Hapuna Beach Facilities to Return as Soon as This Week. Post-ocean showers and more convenient bathroom breaks should again be part of the Hapuna Beach experience in the coming days. Big Island Now.

Taking better care of the ‘aina: Pelekane Watershed improvements to mitigate ecological degradation. A two-year effort to protect and improve water quality and ecosystem health in the Pelekane Watershed was recently completed by The Kohala Center. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui K-12 Schools To Receive $6.35 Million for Public Schools in Low Income Communities. Hawai‘i K-12 schools will receive a projected $56,517,953 in new federal funding for the 2021-2022 school year to support teacher professional development, additional educators, new technology, and other academic programs at public schools serving low income students. Maui Now.

29% of homes in Maui County have installed rooftop solar. State sees a 55 percent increase year over year. Maui News.

Maui Humane Society reopens after week-long COVID-19 closure. The Maui Humane Society reopened for appointments and surgeries today after undergoing staff testing and quarantine following “limited, but direct exposure” to COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Water shutdown, bridge closures scheduled in Hanapepe. The county Department of Water announced an overnight water-service shutdown on Hana Road in Hanapepe from 9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2 to 5 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 3, weather-permitting, in order to perform waterline-installation and improvements work. Garden Island.

Kauaʻi Non-Profit Rallies to Buy, Restore 600-Year-Old Hawaiian Fishpond. A grassroots effort is underway for a local non-profit to purchase an ancient Hawaiian fishpond on Kauaʻi. The Alakoko Fishpond was recently put on the market with a pricetag of $3 million dollars. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii GOP chair resigns in QAnon Twitter backlash, Court: Mauna Kea police presence warranted, unemployment snags persist, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Republican Party Chairwoman Shirlene Ostrov via LinkedIn

Hawaii GOP chair resigns following backlash over tweets defending QAnon followers. The head of Hawaii’s Republican Party is stepping down. The party announced late Sunday that Shirlene Ostrov resigned after four years as chair. Hawaii News Now.

Who’s Leading The Hawaii House GOP? Nobody Knows. The four minority members are split 2-2 on who should represent the chamber. Meanwhile, the party’s chair has resigned over controversial tweets. Civil Beat.

=====

Hawaii telework bill among measures backed by the Women’s Legislative Caucus. Government workers would be given greater flexibility over their work schedules under a bill that would require all state departments to come up with telework and alternative work schedule policies. Star-Advertiser. Garden Island.

‘Overpayment’ Reviews Causing Latest Delays To Hawaii Jobless Benefits. Many locals, still unemployed in the pandemic, are getting stuck as they try to secure extended benefits from federal COVID-relief packages. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

State Health Department Is Mum On Former Epidemiologist’s Departure. The department says that Dr. Sarah Park, criticized for her leadership during the pandemic, left the department the last day of 2020. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s electricity most expensive in the nation, but tax credit extension could help. Rooftop solar installations in Hawaii were up 55% in 2020, despite the economic turmoil brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. KHON2.

Can You Make Money Being A Farmer In Hawaii? Often lost amid the talk of growing more food in Hawaii is that Hawaii’s biggest crops aren’t foods eaten here, but things grown mainly to export. According to the UDSA, the state’s three biggest cash crops in 2017 were seed crops, coffee and macadamia nuts. The seed crops, mostly corn shipped to farmers elsewhere, were valued at $120.8 million; macadamia nuts, $53.9 million and coffee, $43.8 million. Civil Beat.

Some Expectant Mothers In Hawaii Are Steering Clear Of Hospitals During the Pandemic. Midwives say they’ve been so busy that they’ve sometimes had to turn away clients. Civil Beat.

Officials discuss various ways vaccinations are happening in Hawaii. There are four major ways the state Department of Health is working to get COVID-19 vaccines out to the public, state Health Director Dr. Elizabeth Char told lawmakers last week during a joint informational briefing with the House Committee on Pandemic and Disaster Preparedness and the state Senate Committee on Health. Tribune-Herald.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 31: 82 New COVID-19 Infections And 3 Deaths. Sunday’s cases included 59 on Oahu, nine on Maui, 10 on the Big Island and four residents diagnosed out of state. Two of the deaths were on Oahu and one was on Maui. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Looking to revitalize Oahu’s economy, Honolulu mayor considers easing restrictions. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi is looking to loosen restrictions on bars, restaurants, and youth sports. Hawaii News Now.

Civil Beat Sues Honolulu Police To Make Officer Overtime Data Public. Honolulu Civil Beat filed a lawsuit Friday to get data from the Honolulu Police Department on the amount of overtime each officer has worked in the past five years. Civil Beat.

State seeks innovative ways to finance and build new OCCC. State officials are asking construction contractors, financiers and investors around the world to come up with innovative ways to pay for and build a new, cost-effective and efficient Oahu Community Correctional Center that would ideally provide a template for future state construction. Star-Advertiser.

DOCARE Academy’s first cohort of graduates is ready to serve. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has added 12 new Conservation and Resource Enforcement officers to its team due to a new collaboration with Honolulu Community College. Star-Advertiser.

North Shore wind farm settlement offers added funding, protections for endangered species. The operator of the Kawailoa Wind farm in the hills above Waimea Bay has agreed to pay for greater protections for endangered species as part of a contested case hearing settlement announced Friday. Star-Advertiser.

OHA trustees launch new effort to develop Kakaako Makai property. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs on Thursday took the first step toward kick-starting the stalled development of its waterfront holdings in Kakaako, valued at $200 million. Star-Advertiser.

Kailua’s Kawainui Marsh to undergo major 2-year restoration. An East Oahu wetland is getting some much-needed improvements thanks to a new restoration effort. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu developer takes plunge into COVID-tinged housing market. The developer of a planned twin-tower condominium project near Ala Moana Center is preparing to sell units after holding off last year because of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Appellate court affirms police presence on Maunakea. Hawaii County Police Chief Paul Ferreira had the legal authority to request police officers from other counties to help maintain order on Maunakea during 2019 protests over the Thirty Meter Telescope, the state Intermediate Court of Appeals said Wednesday in an opinion upholding a ruling by 3rd Circuit Court Judge Henry Nakamoto. West Hawaii Today.

Change in opinion: HPD to comply with Act 47, ID officers fired, suspended for misconduct. A day after stating the Hawaii Police Department would not submit until court-ordered the names of officers suspended or fired for misconduct, pursuant to a law that went into effect last fall, the county has changed its stance. West Hawaii Today.

Planning for the future; Proposed capital improvements measure includes bond funding for HMC expansion project. A proposed expansion of Hilo Medical Center is a capital improvement priority for one local legislator. Tribune-Herald.

Bill would allow luxury property owners choice to send tax money to county or charity. The tax, approved last year, imposes $13.60 tax per thousand dollars worth of property value over $2 million for property in the residential category, compared to $11.10 in tax per thousand for the portion of the property under $2 million. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Harbor Lights COVID-19 cluster is now ‘stablilized’. Residents, community groups band together to assist complex. Maui News.

Five Maui Coast workers test positive for virus. Five employees at the Maui Coast Hotel in Kihei have tested positive for COVID-19, though three have already recovered and are back at work and the other two are expected to return shortly, according to the hotel’s general manager. Maui News.

County considers purchase of Maui News property. Maui County is considering the purchase of a 6.3-acre parcel that includes The Maui News offices in Wailuku. Maui News.

Kauai

Council passes enhanced shoreline-setback ordinance. The county Planning Department isn’t completely satisfied with new additions to the county’s shoreline-setback ordinance that were recently passed through the Kaua‘i County Council. Garden Island.

County requests proposed Westside beach access bill be modified. A hearing notice proposing a pilot permit program at Polihale State Park and Kekaha Beach Park to allow for beach driving was the first time the County of Kaua‘i heard of such a proposal. Garden Island.

Tourist tax proposed, 7 Hawaii National Guard troops test positive for COVID-19 after D.C. duty, Honolulu restaurant cited for lack of masks, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourists at Hawaii rocky beach ©2021 All Hawaii News

Proposed Tourist Tax Could Help Hawaii Deal With Climate Change Impacts. Legislative leaders want to bump up taxes that could be assessed on the kinds of things sought by higher-spending tourists and travelers. Civil Beat.

Pandemic drives sharp drop in Hawaii tourism, with arrivals down 75%. Stricken by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaii tourism entered 2021 in critical condition with visitor arrivals down 74% from the previous year, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers, legislative staff get COVID-19 vaccine as essential workers. Some 500 state lawmakers, legislative staff and other employees who work at the state Capitol were able to get COVID-19 vaccines Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii representative proposes work-from-home grant to cut down traffic. Hawaii State Representative Takashi Ohno introduced a bill on Wednesday that aims to establish a remote work transition grant program to help small businesses convert to virtual working environments. KHON2. KITV4.

7 Hawaii National Guard troops test positive for coronavirus following D.C. duty. Seven cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed among the nearly 200 Hawaii Army National Guard soldiers who were part of a massive security force for the Jan. 20 presidential inauguration, officials said Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

American Samoa Repatriation Picks Up Five COVID-19 Cases. American Samoa’s repatriation system picked up five COVID-19 cases so far among the more than 160 residents in quarantine. Hawaii Public Radio.

Some parents say Hawaii is moving too slowly to bring students back to class. Roughly 74% of Hawaii’s public school students are spending all or part of their instructional time on campus. Hawaii News Now.

Fed Help Would Give Hawaii’s Vaccination Campaign A Shot In The Arm. Faster vaccine deliveries promised by President Joe Biden would help the state give a COVID-19 shot to every willing Hawaii resident by the fall, health official says. Civil Beat.

State of Hawai‘i Weekly COVID-19 Cluster Report can be found here.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 28: 100 New Infections And 2 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported two Oahu deaths and 100 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, including 65 on Oahu, 21 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, one on Lanai, and six Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Has Third-Worst Finances Of Any American City. The City and County of Honolulu’s balance sheet is in rough shape. That is the assessment of Truth In Accounting, a non-partisan think tank that promotes transparency in government financial reporting. Hawaii Public Radio.

To ease courts backlog, prosecutors are considering plea deals in DUI cases. The pandemic could change a longstanding practice for Honolulu prosecutors handling drunk driving cases ― at least temporarily. Prosecutors, defense attorneys and Mothers Against Drunk Driving are discussing plea deals for some defendants in an effort to clear a court logjam. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii stadium on campus will cost $5M. The cost to build a temporary stadium would be $5 million if the University of Hawaii (UH) football team plays its home games at the Manoa campus. KHON2.

Punahou School fires teacher accused of sexual misconduct. The case is not related to allegations of sexual abuse by coaches and teachers in the early to mid-2000s that were detailed in lawsuits filed last year. Star-Advertiser.

A Bitter Domestic Dispute Could Shake Up How The Navy Handles Abuse Cases In Hawaii. The Family Advocacy Program is supposed to help military families experiencing abuse, but one Navy sailor’s experience shows its broad discretion in handling cases. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Restaurant Gets Red Placard for Repeat Mask Violations. The Hawai‘i Department of Health Food Safety Branch has issued a red “CLOSED” placard to Doner Shack at 79 South Pauahi St. in Honolulu due to repeated instances of employees not wearing face masks while working, the department announced. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Alternatives sought for Ka‘u sewer projects: Current plan could cost $400k hookup fee per home. Faced with sewer hookup fees higher than the value of the homes themselves, Naalehu property owners have cajoled, badgered and even filed a lawsuit to stop sewer projects in Naalehu and Pahala that are aimed at getting the county out from under a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency consent order. West Hawaii Today.

Just 5 Hilo leases have been extended so far through revitalization program. Only five Hilo leases have been extended in exchange for renovating their properties under a program intended to revitalize Banyan Drive and the Kanoelehua Industrial Area. Tribune-Herald.

Ka’u Coffee Mill drastically impacted by COVID-19 pandemic. There are coffee plants as far as the eye can see at Ka’u Coffee Mill on the Big Island. The coffee farm sits on 86 acres of land. KHON2.

Land Nominations Sought for Cultural, Historical Preservation. The County of Hawai‘i Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission is seeking suggestions from the public regarding lands that should be preserved because of cultural or historical significance. Big Island Now.

Maui

Survey: Maui folks are less likely to want COVID vaccine. Maui residents were less likely to want the COVID-19 vaccine than in other areas of the state in a new survey of nearly 4,000 people across Hawaii. Maui News.

State investigating 2 COVID clusters identified at Maui hotels. The state said it is investigating two clusters of COVID-19 at hotels in Maui County and believes improper mask usage and other problems may be to blame. Hawaii News Now.

Tourism Report: Maui Visitors for Dec. 2020 Down 67.2 Percent from 2019. Hawaiʻi’s tourism industry continues to be severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with December 2020 visitor arrivals down 75.2 percent compared to a year ago, according to preliminary statistics released by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s Tourism Research Division. Maui Now.

Vandals cut through fence at Little Beach. Authorities are searching for vandals who cut through metal gate poles and fencing at the entrance to Pu’u Ola’i, also known as Little Beach, at Makena State Park. Maui News.

Southwest to Add Nonstop Long Beach to Maui Flight. The flights will be added on March 11, 2021 with fares as low as $99 one-way, according to a company press release. Maui Now.

Ranchers hope for greener pastures amid Maui County’s ‘extreme’ drought. Governor David Ige’s emergency proclamation declaring Maui County a disaster area because of severe drought has restored some hope for future economic relief ― but other ranchers say it’s too late for their businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Mayor hopeful for more federal funds. At the Lihue Business Association’s video conference on Thursday, Mayor Derek Kawakami spoke on Kaua‘i’s economic recovery plans in his first term. Garden Island.

Senate hears proposed Polihale pilot permit program. Before Polihale State Park reopened after nearly five months of closure by the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, officials hinted there may be new rules coming to the secluded, sandy shores. Garden Island.

This UH Researcher Is Studying An Unusual Invasive Species — Figs. The island of Kauai is host to a mix of dozens of nonnative fig species from all over the world. Civil Beat.

Alcohol tax hike, sugary drink tax proposed in Legislature, OHA whistleblower files lawsuit, only half of state residents plan to take coronavirus vaccination, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sweet alcoholic umbrella drink on Hawaii shoreline ©2021 All Hawaii News

House measure would increase state liquor tax. House Bill 771 proposes a 3-year-long increase to the state’s liquor tax, which currently imposes a nearly $6 tax per gallon on distilled spirits and a nearly $1 tax on nondraft beer. Tribune-Herald.

Ige’s Proposed ‘Sugar Tax’ Could Generate $60 Million A Year For The State. Gov. David Ige has proposed a new 2-cents-per-ounce tax on soda and other sugary drinks in an effort to discourage sugar consumption and cope with the “huge health challenge” of obesity and diabetes. Civil Beat.

Labor unions push lawmakers to drop GET on groceries. Labor unions are asking lawmakers to get rid of the state general excise tax on groceries as a way to help struggling families. Supporters of the idea say bold initiatives are needed during these unprecedented times. KHON2.

Hawaii Chief Justice: Courts Must Address Systemic Inequities. Hawaii Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald, invoking the names of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and others who were killed by police, is calling on the state court system to do its part in addressing systemic inequities. Civil Beat.

Former OHA Finance Chief Sues Over Whistleblower Retaliation. A former official at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs has sued the agency as well as its former chief executive officer alleging whistleblower retaliation and corrupt and unlawful practices. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii ‘Proud Boy’ Hires 9/11 Defense Lawyer To Fight Capitol Mob Charges. Nick Ochs ran for political office in Hawaii as a Republican and was endorsed by the Hawaii GOP. Civil Beat.

Women’s Legislative Caucus Outlines 2021 Bill Package Protecting Women, Children and Families. The bipartisan Hawaiʻi Women’s Legislative Caucus announced their 2021 legislative package of five bills and two resolutions that will support and protect women, children and families. Maui Now.

Should the voting age be lowered? Proposal is among package of bills introduced by Keiki Caucus. A Wednesday presentation by the state Legislature’s Hawaii Keiki Caucus discussed 20 bills and resolutions that were devised after lawmakers discussed with children and teenagers what issues are important to them. Tribune-Herald. KITV4.

Only half of Hawaii residents surveyed plan to vaccinate. Only half of the respondents in a recent Department of Health survey indicated they would take the COVID-19 vaccination, while about 24.4% said they were not likely to get immunized against the virus that has sickened nearly 25,500 Hawaii residents, killed 404 and ravaged the economy. Another 25.5% said they were undecided. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige opens pre-arrival testing program to South Korea. Gov. David Ige today announced a pre-arrival testing program for travelers from South Korea starting Feb. 5. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Now.

Fed Help Would Give Hawaii’s Vaccination Campaign A Shot In The Arm. Faster vaccine deliveries promised by President Joe Biden would help the state could give a COVID-19 shot to every willing Hawaii resident by the fall, health official says. Civil Beat.

COVID-19 Testing Capacity Quadrupled. Hawaii’s largest locally owned medical testing laboratory, Diagnostic Laboratory Services, Inc. (DLS), has increased its capacity to 4,000 tests per day, up from 1,000. Big Island Now.

Teacher vaccinations slowed by vaccine shortage, educators unsure about the process. Teachers and educators fall under group 1B in the Department of Health (DOH) vaccine breakdown. The DOH said, they are working diligently to get Department of Education (DOE) employees their shots but some teachers claim the process is unclear. KHON2.

Lt. Gov. Green: We’ve given more vaccines than we’ve had cases. Hawaii is one of only two states that has administered more COVID-19 vaccines than confirmed cases of the virus. KHON2.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 27: 103 New Infections And 3 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported three deaths and 103 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, including 64 on Oahu, 27 on Maui, three on the Big Island, and nine Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Mayor identifies affordable workforce rentals as a top priority. Rick Blangiardi’s first piece of legislation as Honolulu’s mayor calls for grant money to help fund more affordable rental units. Hawaii News Now.

Blangiardi feels energized in mayor’s role; hopes to ease COVID restrictions in February. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said about a month into the job, he feels energized to serve in his new position, as well as to the pressure of high expectations and a sense of responsibility as his new leadership team comes together. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu's Next Budget Director Expects Challenges, 'A Tough 2022' . Mayor Rick Blangiardi named Andy Kawano as the next person to lead the department. He came to the city from Foodland Supermarket as its director of facilities. Hawaii Public Radio.

Murder trials, other Oahu court cases with multiple defendants halted due to COVID-19. Prosecutions of homicide cases on Oahu — and trials involving multiple defendants — are not moving forward because of COVID-19 limits, Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald told a joint session of the state Legislature Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

HPD Chief Shakes Up Covert Intelligence Unit After Years Of Scandal. The Intelligence Enforcement Unit was at the center of the Kealoha conspiracy as well as a more recent surveillance operation that targeted a political appointee. Civil Beat.

Kualoa Ranch to lay off large number of workers. Kualoa Ranch Hawaii Inc., which employed some 370 workers pre-COVID-19, is permanently laying off a large number of its remaining employees due to a decline in business, its president confirmed Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Boatyard Agrees To Six-Figure Penalty For Keehi Lagoon Pollution. The levels of contaminants discharged from the facility into the lagoon violated federal regulations, the EPA found. Civil Beat.

An affordable housing complex opens in Maili, with more projects expected to break ground along the Leeward Coast and around Honolulu this year. More public and private housing projects will start construction this year, but experts say it still won't be enough to satisfy the state's supply shortage of affordable homes. KITV4.

Honolulu City Council OKs senior housing tower in Chinatown. The Honolulu City Council is endorsing a long-planned affordable rental housing tower for seniors on city land in Chinatown. Star-Advertiser.

All 4 Ko Olina lagoon parking lots will reopen completely on Monday. The four free parking lots, relied upon by the beachgoing public to access the popular lagoons, were closed during the resort’s coronavirus closure from March until October 16, when Ko Olina began reopening to tourists and partially reopened the lots, making 111 of 180 parking stalls available. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Some Big Island teachers get first dose of COVID vaccine. Approximately 630 DOE staff were given the first dose of the Moderna vaccine Jan. 16 at a closed “POD,” or point of distribution, conducted for Big Island DOE staff at Keaau High School, according to District Health Officer Eric Honda. Tribune-Herald.

Water employees offered vaccinations: Employees moved ahead in line after letter to Ige. There hasn’t been a single positive coronavirus test among the Department of Water Supply’s 164 staff, and the agency wants to keep it that way. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Proposal pulls power from Maui Redevelopment Agency. The Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday gave its backing to a proposed bill that pulls power from a county agency with authority to alter zoning and variance rules for downtown Wailuku. Maui News.

Hawaii Governor Declares Maui County A Disaster Area As Drought There Persists. The drought has lasted since March 2019, taking a heavy toll on farmers and homesteaders, as well as the deer that roam those islands. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Kauai

Council passes lower residential investor threshold evaluation. With one in eight homes on Kaua‘i empty, a bill attempting to incentivize filling these vacancies passed through the Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday. Garden Island.

Kauai Is Moving Forward On One Of The Nation’s Most Advanced Energy Projects. The solar-charged hydro power concept is being eyed to replace coal and other fossil-fuel powered electric plants in the U.S. and abroad. Civil Beat.

Popular former Big Island Mayor Kenoi succumbs to cancer, Legislature seeks to tighten reins of auditor, gambling bills introduced, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Billy Kenoi on Dec. 6, 2016, at his last ribbon-cutting

 Former Mayor Billy Kenoi succumbs to cancer: Kenoi leaves a long legacy of a bodacious life. Hawaii lost a rising political star and ambassador of aloha Tuesday with the death of former Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi. West Hawaii Today.

Praise pours in for former Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi. Former Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi, once a rising star in the Hawaii Democratic Party, died Tuesday at his home in Volcano after a bout with a rare form of cancer. He was 52. Star-Advertiser.

Former Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi Dead At 52. The folksy and sometimes controversial Hawaii leader had fought a lengthy battle with cancer. Civil Beat.

Billy Kenoi, former Hawaii County mayor, dies after lengthy battle with cancer. William “Billy” Punapaiaala Kenoi, the former mayor of Hawaii County who gained followers around the state for his tell-it-like-it-is style, an endless love for the place he called home and as an inspiring orator, died Tuesday at home after a lengthy battle with cancer. Hawaii News Now.

Friends say Kenoi was sharp, witty, funny in final days. Full of aloha, a master communicator and a force of personality. That is how friends describe former Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi, who succumbed to a battle with cancer on Tuesday, Jan. 26, at the age of 52. KHON2.

Friends, Colleagues Remember Billy Kenoi. The Governor will order flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Mayor Kenoi on the day of his memorial service, arrangements are pending. KITV4.

Hawaii Officials Reflect On Passing Of Billy Kenoi. Top Hawaiʻi officials offered words of remembrance on the news of the death of former Hawaiʻi County Mayor Billy Kenoi. Big Island Video News.

Former Hawaiʻi County Mayor Billy Kenoi Dies After Long Battle With Cancer. Big Island Now.

Former Hawai‘i Island Mayor “Billy” Kenoi Dies, Dignitaries Extend Condolences. Maui Now.

=====

Bill Would Give Lawmakers Control Over Auditor’s Paycheck. A bill that would empower the Legislature to set the salary of the State Auditor has been co-introduced by House Speaker Scott Saiki and Democratic Majority Leader Della Au Belatti in what may be another sign that State Auditor Les Kondo has fallen from favor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii gambling bills under serious review. State lawmakers are prepared to have perhaps their most serious discussions about whether to allow some form of legalized gambling in Hawaii in the face of monumental budget shortfalls, a struggling tourism-based economy and the overwhelming challenge of trying to get Native Hawaiians onto state Hawaiian home lands. Star-Advertiser.

Broadband expansion plans find support. Several broadband-related bills were introduced or passed first reading in the state Legislature on Monday, the same day Gov. David Ige delivered his State of the State address, during which he committed to expanding connectivity coverage throughout Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

CDC Supports Reopening Schools. Hawaii Officials Say Not Yet. Federal health officials found “little evidence” that schools are meaningful contributors to the spread of COVID-19, based on available data. Civil Beat.

Education officials prepare for budget cuts. Education officials let local lawmakers know why funding for their programs should not be cut, even during this difficult economic time. KITV4.

Work from Hawaii program gets tens of thousands applications. A program that pays for the flights of people who want to work remotely in Hawaii has already received around 50,000 applications. KITV4.

State jobless rate declines to 9.3%. A Hawaii labor market plagued by the COVID-19 pandemic and thousands of job losses in 2020 showed some signs of recovery at year-end as the unemployment rate fell for the third straight month and finished December at 9.3%. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines reports $162M loss amid 79% drop in revenue. Hawaii’s largest airline finished what it called the most challenging year for the air travel industry with a $162.6 million loss during the last three months of 2020. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Lt. Gen. Charles Flynn to take command of U.S. Army Pacific. The brother of disgraced former national security adviser retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn — who suggested that President Donald Trump could declare martial law and “rerun” elections in certain states — has been tapped to be the next commander of U.S. Army Pacific at Fort Shafter. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Green: Herd immunity in Hawaii could be achieved by summer. The state believes President Joe Biden’s plans to ramp up the distribution of vaccinations could help Hawaii achieve herd immunity by the summer. Hawaii News Now.

COVID-19 vaccine distribution uneven because of limited supplies. The state Department of Health is well into its COVID-19 vaccination rollout across the islands, but there still appears to be confusion and frustration about apparent inconsistencies in the pecking order within designated priority groups. Star-Advertiser.

The State Vaccine Communication Strategy Works To Include Community Partners. Only 44% of Hawaii residents would be willing to take the COVID-19 vaccine according to a report from the University of Hawaii’s Public Policy Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 26: 71 New Infections. Hawaii health officials reported 71 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, including 61 on Oahu, one on the Big Island, eight on Maui, and one Hawaii resident diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Former no. 2 under Caldwell is working at Council to get taxpayer-funded benefits. Roy Amemiya, who served as managing director in the Caldwell administration, is back at Honolulu Hale as a staffer for new Councilman Calvin Say. Hawaii News Now. 

Honolulu man arraigned after being caught with 24 pounds of cocaine, prosecutors say. Ping Hong Lee was arrested on Jan. 13 after law enforcement officers observed an alleged trade off at a Waikiki hotel. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Foundation exploring TMT ahead of funding decision. The National Science Foundation is continuing its informal outreach efforts in Hawaii as part of a campaign that could help to determine whether it will award hundreds of thousands of dollars to the stalled Thirty Meter Telescope project. Star-Advertiser.

Post-arrival testing to continue through February. Hawaii County will continue testing trans-Pacific arrivals for COVID-19 through at least February thanks to continued partnerships with private philanthropists. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Vacation Rentals at 41.8 Percent Occupancy for December. Maui County had a 41.8 percent occupancy rate for vacation rentals during December 2020 with an average daily rate of $277, according to the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s Vacation Rental Performance Report. Maui Now.

COVID-19 at grocer, MPD and humane society. Ten employees at Foodland in Pukalani have tested positive for COVID-19, though store officials say the employees had “very limited contact” or no contact at all with customers. Maui News.

Erosion Prompts Puamana Beach Park Closure Through Feb. 28. Puamana Beach Park in West Maui is closed today, Jan. 26, through Feb. 28, 2021, due to safety concerns caused by coastal erosion, the Department of Parks and Recreation announced. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kupuna can join vaccine waitlist. Kupuna over 75 who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine have an opportunity Friday at Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation’s Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waimea and Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital in Kapa‘a. Garden Island.

Barnes, 50, alleged quarantine-breaker, held at OCCC now. Barnes was charged with three separate violations of quarantine and a trespassing charge, which he documented with 83 TikTok videos. Garden Island.