New panel seeks to align factions over Mauna Kea telescope construction, businesses raked in profits on COVID testing, iconic Coco Palms Resort back before planning commission, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Protester sign on Mauna Kea ©2022 All Hawaii News

Hawaii seeks end to strife over astronomy on sacred mountain. Telescopes and the needs of astronomers have dominated the summit of Maunakea for 50 years but that’s changing with a new state law saying the mountain sacred to Native Hawaiians must be protected for future generations and that science must be balanced with culture and the environment. Associated Press.

‘The Three Climateers’: Hawaii’s Brian Schatz among new generation of Senate climate hawks. Schatz, 49, embodies a new type of climate hawk on Capitol Hill — one that resonates with a younger generation of climate activists determined to win buy-in not just from environmentalists but also from farmers, ranchers, Native people, labor groups, low-income communities and corporations, too. Washington Post.

New Law Expanding Benefits For Exposure To Harmful Toxins Helps Hawaii Veterans. The PACT act makes veterans who served in several countries as well as those who participated in the cleanup of Enewetak Atoll eligible for VA health care and benefits. Six years after Hawaii Congressman Mark Takai died of pancreatic cancer, one of his signature pieces of legislation has finally become law. Civil Beat.

Update on renewable power plant plans for Hawaii. With the all the increases in power bills recently, many people are wondering what's next for the state of electricity in Hawaii. If you look on Hawaiian Electric's renewable status area of their website, you can see 14 power plants and storage facilities are set to go online in the next 2 years. While one is a geothermal plant, the rest are solar. KITV4.

Democratic running mates Josh Green and Sylvia Luke fine-tune roles. So far they’re still in their political honeymoon phase following their separate Democratic primary victories Aug. 13 to become Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor and governor, respectively. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Experts: Nonprofit’s non-bid COVID contract was a lucrative ‘sweetheart deal’ that gouged taxpayers. COVID testing in Hawaii early in the pandemic was extremely lucrative for government contractors, experts say. They also say the city’s airport testing program meant big profits for a local non-profit and its partners. Hawaii News Now.

Complaints pour in about Honolulu Liquor Commission as critics call for overhaul. The agency in charge of overseeing liquor sales on Oahu is under fire again, facing more allegations of corruption and discrimination. An amended complaint, filed Monday by LGBTQ business owners, cites civil rights violations by the Honolulu Liquor Commission and the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, along with individual employees. Hawaii News Now.

Developer plans to sell 222 acres in Wahiawa to local farmers. Developer Peter Savio is offering local farmers a chance to buy small lots on 222 acres in Wahiawa at what he says are below- market prices as part of his push to make available more affordable agricultural land. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council considering measure to protect historic cultural sites. In an effort to better protect historic cultural sites, the Honolulu City Council is considering a measure that would activate the Historic Preservation Commission, which has remained dormant for the past 29 years. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

City of Honolulu takes ownership of controversial area - Leahi Avenue. City and County of Honolulu now owns the privately owned area between Leahi Avenue and Noela Street – effective Monday. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Affordable housing credits: Finance Committee approves downsized audit request. A “boiled down” request for an audit of county affordable housing credits got the nod Tuesday from the County Council Finance Committee after concerns were raised earlier this month about possibly impeding a federal criminal investigation. West Hawaii Today.

Waikoloa Solar + Storage Project to begin full operations next spring. Work is wrapping up at the Waikoloa Solar + Storage Project in South Kohala with AES Clean Energy on track to begin next spring full operations producing power for Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Emergency call center projected to be finished late next year. A new facility to consolidate the dispatch centers for the Hawaii Police Department and Hawaii Fire Department is now expected to be finished late next year. Tribune-Herald.

Puna boat ramp blues: Four years after Kilauea eruption, community mulls three options. Dozens of Puna residents, many of them fishermen, gathered at Pahoa Community Center on Thursday for a public meeting about a predesign report for an eventual reopening of the ramp, which was cut off from the ocean in 2018 by a sandbar raised by lava entering the ocean during the Kilauea eruption that year. Tribune-Herald.

Hunt Companies sells Palamanui property. The land slated for a university village around Hawaii Community College-Palamanui has changed hands, but development of the massive project isn’t expected to change much under new ownership. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui camper van owners push back on plans to regulate, prohibit mobile vacation dwellings. As Maui lawmakers mull plans to regulate or prohibit mobile vacation dwellings to curb overtourism, some camper van businesses are saying leaders are unfairly targeting some of the island’s most respectful visitors.  Maui Now.

Safety, operational concerns raised over new pier. Residents and a Maui lawmaker have multiple safety and operational concerns about the new Lahaina Small Boat Harbor pier located near a popular surf break in West Maui. Maui News.

$15M released for a new dedicated teacher affordable housing project on Maui. State Representative Angus McKelvey, who currently represents District 10 (which includes the areas of West Maui, Māʻalaea, and a small section of North Kīhei), announced the release of $15 million for the construction of dedicated teacher housing in Lahaina. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Surfers, beachgoers push for earlier access to Hoʻokipa amid parking concerns. County officials confirm that hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and lifeguards are on duty from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the location. The mayor's administration said any change first requires a cost analysis, changes to Administrative Rules, and a mutually agreeable plan with the union and the Department of Fire and Public Safety for staffing changes. Maui Now.

New tool developed by University of Hawaii researchers predicts coastal flooding in West Maui. With the beaches having a limited sand supply and seasonal waves striking shores from both north and south, West Maui is probably Hawaii’s most vulnerable coast when it comes to the effects of sea level rise. Star-Advertiser.

The No. 1 Reason Maui Residents Call 211? They Need Help Buying Food. When Maui families call 211, the service that directs people to social services, the No. 1 reason isn’t the need for medical care, utility assistance or even rental assistance in a place that’s experiencing a dire shortage of affordable housing. It’s because they need help buying food. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kauai Wants To Disaster-Proof New Buildings By Putting Them On Stilts. Kauai would become the state’s first municipality to regulate construction based on flood projections spurred on by sea level rise. As scientists warn of a merciless rise in sea level that could render more than 25,000 acres of statewide land uninhabitable this century, Kauai County planners are plotting new rules to defend homes and businesses from a watery demise. Civil Beat.

Controversial development of Coco Palms Resort draws renewed concerns. A Planning Commission meeting Tuesday could decide the fate of the iconic Coco Palms Resort at Wailua, which was featured in the Elvis Presley film, ”Blue Hawaii.” Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative welcomes new CFO. Stacie Dellamano was appointed to the position of chief financial officer of the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative as of Aug. 15. Garden Island.

Shearwater deaths alarm residents. Five wedge-tailed shearwater seabirds were found dead in Ha‘ena in the area between Tunnels (Makua) Beach and Camp Naue in two separate incidents this summer. Garden Island.

Natatorium renovation mulled, wrongful death lawsuit filed by Zuckerberg employee's family, $500M contract for Honolulu rail utility work, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

City preparing design documents to renovate storied Waikiki Natatorium. Will the iconic Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium ever reopen to the public? After closing down due to water quality and safety issues 43 years ago, the storied landmark now sits dilapidated with crumbling concrete and chipped paint. KITV4.

Two deputy superintendents added to lead Hawaii public school strategy and operations. The state Board of Education today approved the creation and appointments for two new deputy superintendent positions, despite concerns raised by Hawaii’s teachers union and others about worsening bureaucracy at the top of the state’s public school system. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii board receives first draft of strategic plan for 2023-2029. A first-draft outline of a new strategic plan for the University of Hawaii system calls for providing education to a bigger chunk of the islands’ population, eliminating the state’s shortages of teachers and other high- demand workers, and improving equity for Native Hawaiian students and employees among its numerous goals. Star-Advertiser.

Commission to Improve Standards of Conduct discusses legislative term limits. At a Wednesday meeting, the Commission to Improve Standards of Conduct heard from several state lawmakers and the public on the legislative process in its mission to make recommendations on topics from lobbying to campaign finance laws. Hawaii Public Radio.

State water commission considers ability to act during emergency situations. Hawaiʻi has faced drought conditions and potential water shortages this summer. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Commission on Water Resource Management has been monitoring rainfall across the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Condo Fees Are Among Nation’s Highest. And They’re Squeezing The Middle Class. For many middle class home owners, maintenance fees can be almost as high as a mortgage. Civil Beat.

Oahu

New $500 Million Contract May Finally Solve Honolulu Rail’s Utility Woes. Rail officials tried to get this work done under a prior contract. They say this new deal will finally solve one of the project’s biggest obstacles. Honolulu rail officials this week awarded a nearly half-billion dollar contract that they hope will finally overcome one of the project’s biggest hurdles: relocating the maze of utility lines that run above and below Dillingham Boulevard. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Retirement ceremony foreshadows end of coal power era on Oahu. Gov. David Ige, several state lawmakers and city representatives participated in a retirement ceremony outside the AES Corp. coal-fired plant, which has been Oahu’s largest single generator of electricity for 30 years. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

More seats approved for University of Hawaii field. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents approved a $30 million plan that includes expanding the seating capacity of the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex to nearly 17,000 in time for the start of the 2023 football season. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

NOAA plans to relocate monk seal pup Koalani after weaning. Federal wildlife officials this afternoon announced a decision to relocate Hawaiian monk seal pup Koalani from Kaimana Beach in Waikiki to a more remote Oahu shoreline after he has weaned. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

A little tax relief for kupuna. Property taxes should take a slightly smaller bite from older property owners and those with lower-valued homes starting this time next year, thanks to a bill unanimously passed Wednesday by the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Foes blast PGV plan. A public meeting about a plan to increase power production at Puna Geothermal Venture attracted nearly universal criticism from attendees Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Hele-On awarded funds for zero-emissions fleet, capital improvements. The county will procure six fuel cell electric buses and support hydrogen charging infrastructure through the Low or No Emissions grant program. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Seabirds Still Face Danger From Bright Lights. The case against the Grand Wailea resort is headed for trial in April unless a settlement emerges. Civil Beat.

Crucial tasks ahead for new Department of Agriculture. County hammers out duties that include promoting local food, curbing theft, developing workforce. Maui News.

Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization taking applications for executive director. The Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization is now accepting applications to fill the role of executive director as Lauren Armstrong, who’s headed the organization since 2016, moves on to another job. Maui News.

Kūlanihākoʻi High School is approved as new Kīhei campus name. Kūlanihākoʻi High School is now the official name of the campus currently under construction in Kīhei, Maui, following today’s approval by the Hawaiʻi State Board of Education. Maui Now.

Maui to procure 11 new buses thanks to competitive federal grant. The County of Maui will procure four battery electric buses, as well as three commuter and four microtransit-type buses, and prepare the infrastructure needed to transition its fleet to electric buses by the year 2035. Maui Now.

Kauai

Councilors hope bill incentivizes mainland investors to rent long-term. The Kaua‘i County Council passed a bill Wednesday that introducers view as a step toward equity and balance within the Kaua‘i property tax system. Garden Island.

Zuckerberg company implicated in wrongful death lawsuit. Rodney Medeiros was working a 12-hour shift as a security guard at the Kaua‘i ranch owned by Mark Zuckerberg and Dr. Priscilla Chan when he died of a heart attack three years ago. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now.

State Tourism Officials Visit Kauai To Pitch Progress: ‘We’re Not Your Grandfather’s HTA’. Tourism, historically subject to little restraint, faces growing controls. But stressed-out residents say it’s not enough. Civil Beat.

Honolulu braces for student surge, Veterans Affairs official visits Tripler, Japanese tourists drawn to Big Island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu traffic PC:Joy Roldan via Facebook

Here are some tips on how to prepare for back-to-school Oʻahu traffic. Prepare yourself. If you are on the road on Oʻahu next week, expect delays as 50,000 more motorists hit the road. The University of Hawaiʻi faculty and students return fully in person for the first time since the start of the pandemic.  Hawaii Public Radio.

When to expect your $300 Hawaii tax rebate? The State of Hawaii Department of Taxation created an Act 115 Refund page on its website for residents and said those that filed their tax returns can expect to see their $300 refund by September or October and it all depends on when they filed their tax return. KHON2.

Large number of voters leave Office of Hawaiian Affairs races blank. From Mauna Kea, to the decades long waiting list for Hawaiian Homestead land, it's a pivotal time in the Native Hawaiian community. KITV4

Hawaiʻi Schools Issue Updated COVID-19 Guidance. The Hawaiʻi Department of Education on Monday released an updated COVID-19 guidance, incorporating the latest recommendations from the Hawaiʻi Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for K-12 schools. Big Island Video News.

Ige: Changes coming as COVID funding ends. Due to changes in federal funding, the state of Hawaii will alter its approach to testing, treatment and other COVID-19 mitigation strategies. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Department of Health reports 2,696 new infections, 13 coronavirus-related deaths. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, continued its downward trend to 10.7%, compared to 12.4% reported the previous week, representing tests performed between Aug. 9 to 15. It represents a decline for the third week in a row since July 27. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Public May Never Know Who Did The Bribing In The Honolulu Permitting Scandal. In a bribery scandal that nabbed government workers, federal prosecutors have obscured the identities of those on the other end of the transaction. Civil Beat.

Airport theft probe exposes possible wider public corruption scheme. A state investigation into alleged thefts at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport baseyard has lead to suspicions of insider contracting. Hawaii News Now.

Tripler VA center gets visit from Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Donald Remy. Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Donald Remy visited the Spark M. Matsunaga Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center on Wednesday as part of a tour of VA facilities across the Pacific. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Mixed-use towers proposed for Keeaumoku. A new affordable housing development could be coming to the heart of Honolulu at the old Meadow Gold facility, but questions remain about how long it will stay affordable. KHON2.

Honolulu Community College’s aviation maintenance program receives a historic boost from Hawaiian Airlines. For the first time in the roughly 80-year history of the Pacific Basin’s only aviation maintenance training program, an airline company is investing in it directly by diverting some of its paid employees to serve as instructors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi Island records more than its usual share of Japanese visitors. Ross Birch, head of the bureau, says the Big Island is currently receiving about 1,000 Japanese visitors a day. That equates to 20% of Japanese visitors arriving in Hawaiʻi. The island usually sees 10% of total statewide arrivals. Hawaii Public Radio.

County to Temporarily Pause Rental, Utility Assistance Program. The county’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program, ERAP, will temporarily pause to new applications starting Thursday in an effort to process existing applications. Big Island Now. KHON2.

New program makes county buses ‘safe places’. Mass Transit Administrator John Andoh announced that Mass Transit is partnering with the National Safe Place Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter and resources to children and teens in crisis. Tribune-Herald.

Public Can Give Feedback On Waikōloa Intersection Plan. The Hawaiʻi County Department of Public Works Engineering Division says it will be implementing safety improvements on the Waikōloa Intersection, where Waikoloa Road meets Paniolo Avenue. Big Island Video News.

Hilo Judge Extends TRO Against Deputy Prosecutor. A district court judge in Hilo on Wednesday extended a temporary restraining order against a deputy prosecutor and his wife who are accused of harassing their next-door neighbors. She also ordered mediation. Civil Beat.

Maui

Maui Police Commission reviews complaints against chief and executive staff. The Maui Police Commission met on Wednesday to review complaints against Maui Police Chief John Pelletier and several members of his executive staff, alleging violations of policy and procedure. Maui Now.

Despite long lines to vote on Maui, election officials say no major changes planned for November. Officials say primary election day in Hawaii had a few hiccups, but otherwise went smoothly and they’re not planning to change too many procedures for the general election in November. Hawaii News Now.

Public invited to comment on Maui Climate Mitigation Action Survey. Mayor Michael Victorino is seeking public input for a Maui County Climate Mitigation Action Survey to help develop a Climate Action and Resiliency Plan. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauaʻi residents respond favorably to concept of regenerative travel. Give more and take less could soon become a traveler’s creed. A University of Hawaiʻi paper asked more than 460 Kauaʻi residents about their attitudes on regenerative tourism. Hawaii Public Radio.

Surveyed Kauaʻi residents continue to feel concerned about COVID-19. A majority of surveyed Kauaʻi residents continue to feel concerned about COVID-19 and the pandemic, according to a new report from the state Department of Health and Kauaʻi District Health Office. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ige: No aloha in PAC attacks, UH to expand football stadium, skunk captured in Maui nature preserve, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige Rails Against Super PAC Attacks During Hawaii’s Primary. In Hawaii, super PACs, known as independent expenditure committees are allowed to accept an unlimited number of donations and spend as much as they please either supporting or opposing candidates. Civil Beat.

Differences emerge between Aiona and new running mate. There are some ideological differences between Hawaii gubernatorial Republican running mates James “Duke” Aiona and Seaula Tupai Jr., especially when it comes to abortion and gun control. Star-Advertiser.

Recount ‘completed’ for close Hawaii primary election races. Four days after Hawaii’s primary election, a few races for elected office may still be too close to know who won. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

State Supreme Court: Hawaii Longline Industry’s Use Of Foreign Crews OK. Those crews’ working conditions have come under scrutiny in recent years because they don’t have legal U.S. standing and can’t leave the pier when docked. Civil Beat.

School Librarians Are Becoming A Thing Of The Past In Hawaii. In 2012, the state Department of Education employed 192 school librarians. Today there are only 84 — a massive drop in a state that until 2004 required all of its public schools — more than 250 at the time — to employ at least one full time librarian. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Expands Access To Monkeypox Vaccine As Case Count Rises To 16. The Department of Health said it has received about 2,800 doses of the Jynneos vaccine and more than 1,000 doses have been administered. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Department reviewing results of personnel survey. Honolulu police leadership is reviewing the results of an internal survey sent to 1,820 officers and 400 civilian personnel to help shape the future of the department. Star-Advertiser.

Officers suspected in brutality case retain attorneys ahead of anticipated federal charges. Honolulu police officers involved in a suspected case of brutality are anticipating federal charges and have hired criminal defense lawyers. Hawaii News Now.

Marines Seek Public Comment On Kaneohe Proposal. The Marine Corps wants to station a MQ-9 Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron and a KC-130J Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron at Marine Corps Base Hawaii at Kaneohe Bay to enhance aerial refueling, transport, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Civil Beat.

Residents affected by Red Hill fuel spills plead for more ‘proactive’ help from the Navy. Lawyers representing nearly 200 military families said the Navy is continuing to fail the people affected by last year’s fuel spills. The law firm Just Well Law organized a meeting Tuesday night for residents to share their stories at the Keehi Lagoon Memorial Park. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

UH plans to expand football stadium for 2023 season. The University of Hawaii at Manoa is moving forward to expand the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex that would increase its capacity to 17,000 fans. The plan is to have it ready for the 2023 football season. KHON2.

New dialysis clinic in Nanakuli fills growing need. The Waianae clinic has been overtaxed, and area residents have had to travel to clinics in Ewa, Kapolei and Waipahu, said Dr. Arie Ganz, medical director at the Nanakuli clinic. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

State inspectors close Pearl City eatery with rodent infestation. The House of Dragon Chop Suey, at 850 Kamehameha Highway, was ordered to close Aug. 10 and can’t reopen until the violations are addressed. The state said multiple Health Department inspections ― on March 10, April 20, May 24, June 15 and finally Aug. 10 ― all found the presence of rodents and rodent-contaminated food. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Committee postpones emergency management bill: Questions surround media suspension and civil disturbances. Constitutional questions around suspension of electronic media coverage and what constitutes a civil disturbance had a County Council panel on Tuesday postpone a sweeping emergency management bill so it could be clarified. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Narrowed-Down Affordable Housing Audit Recommended for Approval. A pared-down request by a West Hawai‘i council member to have the county auditor take a deeper look into the marred county Office of Housing and Community Development’s use of affordable housing credits was recommended for approval by the county’s finance committee. Big Island Now.

Ex-councilman sues county to recoup legal fees. Former County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong is suing Hawaii County for $306,000 in legal fees he says he incurred successfully defending himself against a defamation lawsuit. Tribune-Herald.

PGV to hold meeting tonight on proposed power increase. Puna Geothermal Venture seeks to up its energy output in two phases — from 38 megawatts to 46 megawatts and, eventually, to 60 megawatts. Tribune-Herald.

‘The first step’: Road closure near affordable housing project floated to deter illegal activity, houseless individuals. Resolution 478, introduced by North Kona Councilman Holeka Inaba, calls for barricading off for an indeterminate period the southern end of Ka‘eka Street due to complaints raised by residents and management of Lei Kupuna and Lei Ohana at Kamakana Villages over “activities that compromise public safety” including loitering, littering, consumption of alcohol and other illegal activities. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Public Utilities Commission Says Rural Telecom Provider Must Respond To Consumer Advocate. But Sandwich Isles Communications says the state agency is on a “witch hunt” and is resisting providing information about its financial status. Civil Beat.

County to consider leasing large Hamakua parcel to nonprofit. Hawaii County might lease 1,000 acres of Hamakua land to a Native Hawaiian nonprofit. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Data show Bissen won twice as many precincts as Victorino. Mayor wins Molokai and Lanai, Bissen takes most of Maui. Former Judge Richard Bissen won more than twice as many precincts as Mayor Michael Victorino in Saturday’s primary election, according to data from the state Office of Elections. Maui News.

County contacting voters to fix ballots. A total of 849 ballots contain issues that need to be fixed within the next five business days, Maui County Clerk Kathy Kaohu said Monday.  Maui News.

New PARK MAUI program would charge visitors to park at Maui’s most visited areas. Mayor Michael Victorino is inviting interested Maui County residents to participate in two virtual meetings on Aug. 24, to hear the community’s thoughts and suggestions about plans for “PARK MAUI,” a new parking management program for beach parks, business districts and streets in Maui’s most heavily visited areas.  Maui Now.

Live skunk found at Maui wildlife sanctuary. A live skunk was found trapped at the Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary on Maui Monday morning, the state Department of Agriculture reported today. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Board of Ethics considering opinion on second jobs for police officers. After a small influx of requests for outside employment as guards, Kauaʻi Police Department Chief Todd Raybuck requested the advisory opinion from the board, citing his interpretation of state and county laws and union contracts. Hawaii Public Radio.

Federal grant means electric buses for Kaua‘i. A total of $35 million includes the following for The Kaua‘i Bus: Acquisition of four electric buses and expansion of the base yard to prepare the infrastructure needed to transition its fleet to electric buses by the year 2035 and provide the space required to expand and improve transit service quality. Garden  Island.

DHHL completes $12 million project in Anahola. The state Department of Hawaiian Homes Lands held a dedication ceremony Tuesday to celebrate the completion of a $12.9-million project to improve the Anahola Farm Lots water system. Garden Island.

Recounts triggered in some races, GOP participation rises, DOT workers arrested at Honolulu airport, VP Kamala Harris vacations on Kauai,more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Nail-biter races in Hawaii primary election trigger recounts. Results from five contests for seats in the state Legis­lature and one for Kauai County Council qualified for the mandatory double- checking by the state Office of Elections because the difference in votes received by competing candidates was fewer than 100 or within 0.25% of votes cast. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

More than 1 in 5 voted Republican in the primary election. The Hawaiʻi Republican Party reports that GOP turnout for this primary gained traction this year. Hawaiʻi Republican Party Chair Lynn Finnegan said Republicans won over 20% of the total vote. Finnegan said this is the highest percentage of total votes since Republican candidate Linda Lingle was elected. Hawaii Public Radio.

Voter turnout in Hawaii’s primary was about 40%. Fewer than half of registered voters in Hawaii turned out to vote, whether by mail, drop box or in person, during Saturday’s primary election, according to data from the state Office of Elections. Star-Advertiser.

More election money may be driving voters away. Candidates for all state and county offices in the 2022 election cycle raised nearly $15 million by the primary, plus took loans of nearly $3.3 million — and spent almost $17 million so far, according to data tracked by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission. KHON2.

Hawaii auto sales skidded during first half of year. Statewide registrations for cars fell 18.9% during the first six months while registrations for light trucks, which include vans, SUVs and pickups, decreased 6.4%. Star-Advertiser.

2021 edition of state data book released. The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released the 2021 edition of the “State of Hawai‘i Data Book,” described as the single most comprehensive compilation of statistical information about Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Theft And Fraud Investigations Shake Up Honolulu Airport. Several Hawaii Department of Transportation employees have been arrested and some have left their jobs in the last 16 months as the Attorney General’s office investigates theft and procurement fraud at the Daniel K. Inouye Airport.  Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki residents urge city to fill beach pavilion to increase safety. The city said it is in talks to fill Kuhio Beach Pavilion No. 4 within the next couple of months with a goal of enlivening the space as a tool to increase safety and enjoyment in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu federal housing waitlist opens for low-income applicants. Beginning Monday, Aug. 22, qualified applicants can only apply through an online portal; no applications will be available at the Housing Authority office. The first 1,000 applicants will be accepted.  KITV4.

The Miske Case Has Become One Of The Most Complex Prosecutions In The Country. Defense attorneys are preparing a major attack against a prosecution case that has amassed more than 2 million documents. Civil Beat.

Free bus fare week to alleviate back-to-school jam. Starting today until Aug. 26, residents can get free HOLO cards to ride TheBus free from Monday to Aug. 26, when many universities, community colleges and private schools resume. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

In reversal, state says military training at Big Island range not compatible with conservation land. The Army wants to retain up to 23,000 acres of state land at the Pohakuloa Training Area for continued training and asked for comments on a draft environment impact statement. Hawaii News Now.

Utility seeks extension of water rights. Despite opposition from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Hawaiian Electric has an opportunity to extend its rights to keep generating power on Wailuku River. Tribune-Herald.

Stephen Pause Named Hawaiʻi County Public Works Director. Stephen Pause has been serving as the Acting Director for DPW over the past two months, following the departure of previous director Ikaika Rodenhurst. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Trying to spark interest: Cost of Government Commission finding departmental feedback a challenge. With just three months before they’re required by the county charter to present a report to the County Council and mayor, some members of the Cost of Government Commission reported Thursday they’re having a hard time drumming up interest from some county departments and boards and commissions. West Hawaii Today.

2022: A deadly year on Big Island roads, so far. As of Monday, there were 25 official traffic fatalities for the year, one fewer than for last year’s 26. And if fatalities on the Big Island’s roads continue at their current rate, there would be 40 for the year, two more than the 38 traffic deaths recorded in 2012, the deadliest year in recent memory. Tribune-Herald.

Mysterious wildcat sighting reported in Hawaii. A report of a large wildcat has some Hawaii Island residents on edge. What appears to be something the size of a large dog was reported by a Big Island man on the rural slopes of Hualalai above Kailua-Kona. KHON2.

Maui

Officials to change protocols after long lines, headaches at Maui’s only voter service center. Voters received their ballots by mail three weeks ago — and Maui election officials admit they were not ready for the crowd. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Overnight vote counts bring surprises on day after primary election. The last batch of ballots brought in late Saturday night made a big difference in some state and county races, with candidates who appeared poised for defeat leapfrogging back into contention. Maui News.

Surfrider Foundation records high bacteria levels at Kahului, Haneoʻo, Maliko, Baby Beach. This is the second month in a row that Kahului Harbor had high levels of Enterococcus bacteria, with results showing a count of 2400 MPN/100mL. It was the third month in a row for high levels at Haneoʻo, which had 454 MPN/100mL, down from the month before when rates were 1152 MPN/100mL. Baby Beach recorded a rate of 175 MPN/100mL, marking the first time this year that the location had high bacteria levels in the monthly report. Maui Now.

Kauai

Vice President Kamala Harris vacations on Kauai in unannounced visit. Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff arrived in Lihue this afternoon for an extended vacation on Kauai. Star-Advertiser. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i seeking grant proposals. The intent of the program is to support projects and activities meeting a distinctive cultural, social or economic need for which adequate federal or state funding cannot be secured. Garden Island. KHON2.

Hawaii Democrats unify after bruising primary election, Land Board approves food trucks at state parks, big plans for Waikiki Shell, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Democratic Party rivals break bread after primary election. Adversaries tried to remember they were friends Sunday during the Democratic Party of Hawaii’s Unity Breakfast, a bittersweet ritual held for decades the morning after the primary election. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s gubernatorial race should be cordial unless it becomes close. The campaign to become Hawaii’s next governor should be a genial contest compared with the testy Democratic Party primary gubernatorial campaign — unless the race suddenly tightens between Lt. Gov. Josh Green and former Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona ahead of the Nov. 8 general election. Star-Advertiser.

General election candidates for Hawaii Legislature include 64 Republicans. Now that Hawaii’s 2022 primary election is over, most voters will have an opportunity to choose between a Democrat and a Republican candidate to represent them in the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

The Number Of Ballots Cast Was Down This Year. Despite mail-in voting again this election, turnout fell off from the last election which featured a presidential race. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Schatz: New Climate Bill Is ‘An Incredible Economic Opportunity’ For Hawaii. The bill seeks to reduce drug prices and force certain corporations to pay more taxes. It also injects a record $369 billion into the fight against climate change, Schatz’s top policy priority. Civil Beat

Land board OK’s proposal for food trucks in state parks. The Board of Land and Natural Resources voted Friday to open solicitations for bids by food truck operators seeking to operate in 18 state parks. Tribune-Herald.

Housing study cites government barriers. High housing demand, heightened by low supply, drives up Hawaii’s home prices, not out-of-state buyers, according to new research released today by the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Navy’s deep ship graveyard in Hawaii continues to grow. The service was unable to provide an exact figure when asked how many ships it has sunk in and around the Hawaiian Islands. In an emailed response, a Navy spokesperson said that “since the early 2000’s, the Navy has conducted an average of two SINKEX’s in the Hawaiian Islands Range Complex each even-numbered year, when RIMPAC exercises are held.” Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City proposes more than $11.67 million in upgrades to Waikiki Shell. The city is proposing more than $11.67 million in improvements to the Tom Moffatt Waikiki Shell that would include installation of a tensile structure over the main seating area and an additional 2,000 fixed seats. Star-Advertiser.

Traffic expected as students move into UH Manoa. The University of Hawaii at Manoa said that there may be traffic delays around the UH Manoa campus as they are expecting about 3,500 students to move in. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Extension frustration: Bill seeks to curb automatic rezoning time extensions. A bill proposed by North Kona Councilman Holeka Inaba aims to address a common complaint among West Hawaii residents that developers’ rezoning applications, once approved, get numerous time extensions without regard to how conditions and infrastructure may have changed in the intervening five, 10 or even 25 years. West Hawaii Today.

PGV to Host Community Meeting About Pending EIS Preparation Notice. Puna community members will have the opportunity this week to comment about an environmental impact statement preparation notice being prepared by Puna Geothermal Venture. Big Island Now.

BLNR approves land lease for Waikoloa Public Library. The Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday voted unanimously to approve a request by the state to lease gratis — without charge — about 2 acres from Hawaii County during its semi-monthly meeting in Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

Judge releases redacted document from Ireland case. Hilo Circuit Judge Peter Kubota has released a redacted version of a document apparently related to post-conviction DNA testing performed in the Dana Ireland murder case. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Prosecutor’s Alleged Harassment Dates Back Years. In addition to an ongoing harassment dispute with his Paukaa neighbor, deputy prosecutor Winston Albright had allegedly harassed neighbors in the Puna District where he previously lived. Civil Beat.

Maui

With lack of teachers, preschool program keeps some centers closed. A local nonprofit’s preschool program has enough federal funding to serve 219 children this school year but only has the capacity for 160 due to the closure of three centers and lack of teachers. Maui News.

Hawaiian crow may soon soar on Maui. One of the rarest birds in the world may soon fly through the remote, forested slopes of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Federal law could lead to lower energy prices on Kaua‘i. Climate provisions in the federal Inflation Reduction Act, which passed both chambers of Congress last week, could lead to lower energy prices on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Special election edition: It's Green, Aiona, Luke, Tokuda and a bunch of incumbents, more election news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Josh Green thanks supporters for Democratic gubernatorial primary win PC:Hawaii News Now

Democrat Josh Green and Republican James ‘Duke’ Aiona will face off for Hawaii governor. Democratic Lt. Gov. Josh Green and former Republican Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona are the Nov. 8 general election candidates to become Hawaii’s next governor after Saturday night’s overwhelming party primary election victories. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Democrat Sylvia Luke triumphs, Seaula Tupai grabs GOP spot in race for lieutenant governor. Sylvia Luke has won the six-way Democratic race to be Hawaii’s next lieutenant governor, triumphing over other top contenders Ikaika Anderson and Keith Amemiya. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Jill Tokuda dominates Patrick Branco in runoff for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. In the contentious race to become the Democratic candidate for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District, Jill Tokuda dominated challenger Patrick Pihana Branco in Saturday’s primary election results, capturing a lead of more than twice as many votes and a berth in the Nov. 8 general election. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

House Speaker Scott Saiki not among losing incumbent lawmakers. A few incumbent Hawaii lawmakers are on a path to being ousted from the Legislature based on near-­complete voting results in Saturday’s primary election. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Kalei Akaka wins Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ Oahu seat; 6 others advance in at-large race. Kalei Akaka cruised to re-election to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees after capturing more than 50% of the vote for the Oahu seat. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Stream of last-minute Hawaii voters turn up in person. Statewide, the only long lines were reported at the voter service center in Wailuku, Maui, according to Nedielyn Bueno, spokesperson for the state Office of Elections. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

All Honolulu City Council races advance to November run-off election. Honolulu City Council District 8 candidates Ron Menor and Val Okimoto are neck-in-neck in the crowded primary race for the open seat. Menor is leading Okimoto by just seven more votes. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Inouye bests Acasio in Democrat primary; other state Senate matchups set. State Sen. Lorraine Inouye, whose Paukaa residence was redistricted from Senate District 4 to Senate District 1, cruised to an easy victory Saturday night over District 1 incumbent Laura Acasio in the Democrat primary election. Tribune-Herald.

Evans, Galimba take council races: The District 9, District 6 County Council candidates appear not to face a runoff. With an estimated 90% of votes counted, Naalehu cattle rancher Michelle Galimba appears to have come out on top of a four-way County Council District 6 race, rounding up 54.27% of the votes, enough to win the race outright against contenders Colehour Bondera, Shane Palacat-Nelson and Henry “Bo” Cho III. West Hawaii Today.

Kagiwada, Kusch headed for runoff in Hilo. Two political first-timers, Jenn Kagiwada and Matthias Kusch, will face each other in a runoff election in November for the County Council District 2 seat representing Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

6 incumbents win outright for Hawaii County Council. In the race for Hawaii County’s nine Council seats, all of the six incumbents in the running were reelected Saturday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

It’s Kahaloa, Kennealy in the general election: Former Kanuha aide sweeps Democratic primary. Kirstin Kahaloa swept through the Democratic competition and is headed for a general election matchup against Republican Jonathan Kennealy for the newly created House District 6, holding a commanding 63.3% of the vote, with about 90% of votes counted Saturday. West Hawaii Today.

Kapela to face Goodwin, Last for House District 5. Republican Lohi Goodwin and Libertarian Michael Last will challenge Democratic incumbent state Rep. Jeanné Kapela to represent House District 5. West Hawaii Today.

Slow, steady and smooth: Voters wrap up the primary process. A steady stream of voters came to the West Hawaii Civic Center, where a few voting options were provided to people for Saturday’s primary election. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Incumbent Maui Mayor Michael Victorino to face former judge Richard Bissen in general election. Retired state judge Richard Bissen looks to have a good shot at unseating Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino in a November runoff election after drawing the most votes in Saturday’s mayoral primary election. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Maui Now. Maui News.  Hawaii News Now.

DeCoite secures win over Ritte; McKelvey and Walker top Senate District 6 primaries. In the closely watched Democratic primary race for state Senate District 7, incumbent Sen. Lynn DeCoite beat challenger Walter Ritte by a much wider margin on Saturday night. Maui News.

Early Maui County Council results highlight Valley Isle natives, political newcomers. Late Saturday night, Maui native Nohe U’u-Hodgins was ahead in the race for the Maui County Council Makawao-Haʻikū-Pāʻia residency seat, which is being vacated by Council Member Mike Molina, who is running for mayor. Maui Now.

Turnout in Maui County lowest in the state at 25 percent. Lines started forming at the voter service center in Wailuku early on the morning of Election Day as residents hurried to place their votes before the close of voting on Saturday. Maui News.

Kauai

Incumbent Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami easily advances to the Nov. 8 election. Incumbent Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami received a majority of the votes in the primary election for the county mayoral race and will advance to the Nov. 8 general election with first-time candidate Michael Roven Poai. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Carvalho, Evslin, Rapozo top council field. The crowded field in the county council race was whittled down slightly after the primary election Saturday, with five of 19 candidates eliminated. Garden Island.

Ige emergency order seeks out-of-state nurses, ballots slow down before election, workers battle Pohakuloa wildfire, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hospital nurse PC:SJ Objio via Unsplash

Gov. David Ige approves emergency rules addressing health care staff shortage. Gov. David Ige today announced the approval of emergency rules authorizing out-of-state nurses to temporarily practice in Hawaii without applying for and obtaining a license if certain requirements are met. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Hawaii to follow CDC’s relaxed COVID-19 guidelines. The state Department of Health says it plans to adjust its COVID-19 quarantine guidelines to align with those issued Thursday by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC dropped the recommendation that Americans quarantine if they come into close contact with an infected person, saying there is now significantly less risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death than earlier in the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Lack of ballots to count leaves Hawaii election volunteers at home. As of Wednesday over 234,000 ballots had been received via mail, dropped off at collection sites or cast in person at voter service centers. That’s 32% of the 730,000 ballots that were sent out to registered voters in Hawaii two weeks ago. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Federal agency failed to protect 49 at-risk Hawaii species, lawsuit says. The Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit Thursday against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, accusing the agency of failing to designate and protect critical habitat for 49 Hawaii endangered species. Star-Advertiser.

Alaska Airlines to fly Hawaii veterans to D.C. for free on special flights. Alaska Airlines is offering Hawaii military veterans free flights to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials and monuments honoring their service and sacrifice. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Oahu

Hawaii’s first major solar farm with batteries is currently producing electricity on Oahu. Hawaii’s first major solar farm with batteries is currently producing electricity on Oahu. The first utility-scale solar farm on Oahu linked with batteries recently began commercial power production ahead of seven similar projects slated for completion over the next two years. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Urban Core May See More Affordable Housing For Older Adults. The Catholic Church has joined a nonprofit organization to develop a 17-story affordable housing building for older adults on downtown property owned by the church at Fort Street Mall, nestled on one of the oldest streets in Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Marine Corps Pledges To Improve Stormwater Management In Kaneohe. After the U.S. Marine Corps was found to be polluting Oahu’s coastal waters with stormwater discharges, the military and Environmental Protection Agency have entered into an agreement to address “significant deficiencies” in the base’s stormwater program, the EPA announced on Thursday. Civil Beat.

TheBus will be free for 5 days beginning Aug. 22. To regain and encourage ridership, regular fares for TheBus on Oʻahu will be suspended for five days later this month. Riders will need to have HOLO cards to participate, which is how the city will evaluate the program. Hawaii Public Radio.

West Oahu Charter School Finances Expansion Through Municipal Bonds. One of Hawaii’s newest charter schools turns to an untraditional source of funding to finance its expansion. A West Oahu charter school that opened in 2019 with 100 sixth graders welcomed its first class of freshmen this year, but DreamHouse Ewa Beach doesn’t yet have a high school. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Large wildfire burning amid Big Isle drought. A large wildfire in a rural area of Hawaii island is not threatening any homes, but high winds and extremely dry conditions are making it difficult for crews to contain the blaze. The fire had burned more than 15 square miles as of Thursday. Associated Press. West Hawaii Today.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Hawaiʻi County Council considers affordable housing credit audit. Earlier this month, Hawaiʻi County Council member Holeka Goro Inaba introduced a resolution for an audit into the county’s affordable housing credits after state and federal investigators indicted four people in an affordable housing scheme. Hawaii Public Radio.

Officials work to fix traffic woes near Mt. View school. Since students returned to school last week, there has been a substantial increase in traffic congestion on Highway 11 near Mountain View Elementary. Tribune-Herald.

Surf’s up: Business gets permit for surf school at Old Kona Airport Park. Kona Town Surf received a permit from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources hours before Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers on Wednesday attempted to cite the surf school business for operating without the necessary documentation. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Iwi kupuna discovered on Maui public beach sparks debate over erosion plans. Rising sea level and erosion are provoking a painful debate on Maui between protecting the beach and protecting the dignity of Native Hawaiian ancestors. Last week, a visitor stumbled across ancestral skeletal remains on a public beach near the Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club in West Maui. Hawaii News Now.

District 13 Democratic primary features new faces with deep ties. House District 13 has seen plenty of turnover in recent years. In 2015 Lynn DeCoite was appointed to the seat after the death of former Rep. Mele Carroll. In 2021 Linda Clark was appointed to the office after DeCoite moved over to the Senate. Maui News.

The long-awaited opening of Kīhei High School is planned for January, but will it happen? Construction of the upper campus of the beautiful new Kīhei High School — which sits mauka of Piʻilani Highway with Haleakala as a backdrop — is expected to finally be completed enough to open in January for a small inaugural class of ninth graders. Maui Now.

Kauai

HDOT to begin work on Lihu‘e Airport parking lot. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation-Airports Division is set to begin a $2.4 million project at Lihu‘e Airport this Monday. Garden Island.

Primary election update; ballots due Aug. 13. Here are the preliminary numbers on ballots turned in so far, according to Elections Administrator Lyndon Yoshioka: Total ballots sent out: 40,947. Ballots turned in: 8,684. Percent of ballots cast: 17.5. In-person votes: 241. Percent in person: 2.7 Garden Island.

Food trucks could come to state parks, hospitals still at capacity, sea level rise threatens Waikiki beach clubs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach state park ©2022 All Hawaii News

Agency seeks food truck concessions at state parks. The Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks is seeking approval to allow mobile food trucks to operate at 18 state parks across the islands. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.

FBI wants to partner with Hawaii businesses, organizations to deter cyberattacks. The Federal Bureau of Investigation wants to partner with Hawaii businesses as part of a nationwide effort to combat the cyberthreat posed by China and other actors working to undermine the U.S. economy and compromise critical infrastructure. Star-Advertiser.

Outside Spending Reaches Historic Levels In Race For Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District. With the election just days away, special interest groups keep trying to sway the election in their favor. So far they’ve spent nearly $1.4 million. Civil Beat.

Campaign Spending Commission investigates ‘ghost PAC’ supporting Cayetano. The state Campaign Spending Commission on Wednesday voted to conduct further investigation into a so-called “ghost PAC” helping Democratic gubernatorial candidate Vicky Cayetano. The political action committee ― Victory Calls 2022 ― ran television ads in May featuring the comedy duo Da Braddahs, saying Cayetano’s opponent Lt. Gov. Josh Green was not a board-certified physician. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Better Access To Public Records Among Proposals From GOP Candidates For Governor. Transparency and government ethics has taken center stage in many races following high profile corruption cases in Hawaii, including the Republican gubernatorial primary. Civil Beat.

Masks optional for children under age 5 in preschool or child care center. Since the beginning of August, K-12 students have had the option of wearing a mask in school. But preschools and child care centers still had to follow the old guidelines. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii hospitals still at full capacity despite declining COVID-19 case counts. Hawaii hospitals are still struggling with staffing shortages even as the daily average of COVID-19 case counts appears to be on its way down. Star-Advertiser.

Novavax COVID-19 vaccine now available in Hawaii. The Hawaii Department of Health today announced that scheduling opportunities are now available for the more traditional COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Novavax. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaii averaging 50 COVID deaths per month this summer. COVID deaths are still coming in at an alarming rate on the islands. The Hawaii Department of Health reported 14 deaths this week, as the state has averaged 50 deaths per month since May. KHON2.

Hawaii Department of Health reports 3,189 new infections, 14 coronavirus-related deaths. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, continued its downward trend to 12.4%, compared to 13.8% reported the previous week, representing tests performed between Aug. 2 to 8. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Two Of Waikiki’s Oldest Beach Clubs Are Struggling To Come To Grips With Climate Change. In a precursor of business decisions that will become more common, members of the Outrigger Canoe Club have rejected a proposal to extend the club’s lease with its landlord beyond 2055 due to concerns about sea level rise. Civil Beat.

Kailua House Candidates Want To Tame Tourism. A microcosm of the state’s own dilemma, Kailua’s fresh batch of House candidates are strategizing ways to manage guests visiting their slice of paradise. Civil Beat.

Consumer prices still rising in Honolulu, but not as much. Honolulu’s inflation rate ebbed a bit in June and July from the previous two months, but prices for goods and services are still broadly rising, a new government report shows. Star-Advertiser.

In space-cramped Honolulu, community gardens have found new popularity ― and meaning. The city’s community gardens are bursting at the seams and more than 1,000 people are on the waiting list to get a plot of their own, said Honolulu Parks and Recreation spokesperson Nate Serota. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council adopts resolution to enforce rules, address concerns at Keaau Beach Park. Keaau Beach Park, which is past Makaha on the Waianae coast, has its share of problems, including illegal dumping, illegal camping, illegal fireworks, burnouts and street racing. But a city council resolution hopes to address those problems. KITV4.

Fourth graders name monk seal pup born at Kaimana Beach. Two weeks after a seal and her pup teamed up on a woman swimming off Waikiki, fourth grade students from Waikiki Elementary School on Wednesday gave the pup, PO8, a more apt name: Koalani, or “heavenly warrior.”  Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Testifiers blast TMT project: Opponents dominate National Science Foundation meeting to determine whether federal funding will be used. The first public meeting to determine whether to award federal funding to the Thirty Meter Telescope ended Tuesday after four hours of outrage. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County Sees Decrease in Processed Firearm Applications. Hawai‘i County had the highest denial rate of firearm applications at 5.6% statewide for 2021, according to data released by the Department of the Attorney General. Big Island Now.

New old buses on the way: County set to accept Honolulu hand-me-downs while awaiting new new buses. Eight more old buses will soon be on their way to the Big Island, with the County Council set to accept the donation of used buses from the City and County of Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

Kimball, challenger Martinez discuss issues ahead of primary. With only two candidates on the ballot, the race will be decided during the primary election on Saturday, with the council seat going to whichever candidate receives more than 50% of the vote. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Warns Lanai Resorts To Not Block Public Beach Access. The company said it closed the park because of flooding. A resident says the gate stayed shut after the water receded. Maui County has issued a warning and told Lanai Resorts, the company owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, to stop blocking access to Hulopoe Beach Park or risk facing a fine of $100,000, plus an additional $10,000 for each day it goes unaddressed. Civil Beat.

Maui County had record 8,149 firearms registered in 2021. In 2021, Maui County had record high numbers for firearm permits processed (2,938), firearms registered (8,149) and firearms imported (3,763), according to an annual report released today by the Hawaiʻi Department of the Attorney General. Maui Now.

Maui police seek to crack down on law-flouting dirt bikers. The Maui Police Department is warning the public about a growing and dangerous trend around the Valley Isle. Officers are concerned about thrill-seeking dirt bikers who are blatantly breaking traffic laws. Hawaii News Now.

Final EA published for Kēōkea Farm Lots Association community center. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has published its final Environmental Assessment with a Finding of No Significant Impact for the proposed Kēōkea Farm Lots Association Community Center in Kēōkea on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

DLNR agrees to audit of all large-capacity cesspools, $105,000 fine. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources $105,543 for failing to close an illegal large-capacity cesspool on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.