Big Island man free after 25 years in prison for rape, murder he didn't commit, youth sue state over climate change, tourism agency seeks to curb visitors' bad behavior, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Big Island man free after decades imprisoned for murder, rape he didn’t commit. Judge overturns Ian Schweitzer’s conviction in Dana Ireland’s rape, murder. A judge on Tuesday ordered that a Puna man who spent 26 years of his life behind bars for perhaps the most notorious murder in Hawaii’s history “be released from his shackles immediately.” Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Associated Press.  Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

How A Longtime Politician Became The Chair Of The House Finance Committee. Rep. Kyle Yamashita, who is known for his quiet nature, is leading one of the most powerful committees in the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Ag Director Plans To ‘Go Big’ If Confirmed. The department's funding has become cause for concern after losing a special revenue stream. Lawmakers say they are listening, but they expect the next director to ask for more. Civil Beat.

Freshman lawmakers aim to rebuild Hawaii’s GOP. Freshman state Sen. Brenton Awa — who is embroiled in a stalemate with the Senate’s only other Republican over who will lead their two-member caucus — wants to reinvigorate and rebrand Hawaii’s Republican Party by helping disenfranchised, working-class families in his rural district on the Windward side of Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Fourteen young people in Hawaii who are plaintiffs in a climate change lawsuit against the state are preparing for their day in court. Ranging between the ages of 8 to 20, they call the case Navahine v. Hawaii Department of Transportation. Hawaii News Now.

HTA: ‘Room for improvement’ in efforts to discourage bad behavior among visitors. The Hawaii Tourism Authority is responding to incidents bad behavior among visitors that have gone viral on social media. And they’re acknowledging the need for more education. Hawaii News Now.

DOE: $2.4B in repair, deferred maintenance backlog. From roofing to interior and exterior construction, the Department of Education said its price tag for repairs and deferred maintenance has climbed to a hefty amount. KHON2.

Why School Enrollment Declines Are A ‘Significant Concern’ In Hawaii. Hawaii is on track to have fewer students enrolled in state-run schools by 2027 than at any point since the early years of statehood.  Civil Beat.

This program has diverted scores of mentally ill people from jail to treatment. It’s also saved millions. A program that pushes mentally ill defendants into community treatment instead of jail has saved taxpayers millions of dollars — and it’s still just in the testing phase. Advocates, judges and lawmakers say the results prove it’s time to beef up the program. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Report condemns Hawaii’s policies on sale of flavored tobacco products. Hawaii received an “F” grade for its policies on flavored tobacco products, according to the American Lung Association’s annual State of Tobacco Control report. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

New Park Rangers To Serve As Beach Sleuths. A set of mobile cops will fan out across Oahu's parks, looking for the rogue operators that are driving residents crazy. Civil Beat.

Handi-Van to improve service under DOJ deal. Following a public complaint over the inability to easily book rides on the city’s prime paratransit service, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Tuesday it entered into a settlement agreement with the City and County of Honolulu to improve the operations of TheHandi-Van. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Secretary of the Army addresses Red Hill concerns, but residents remain dissatisfied. The Secretary of the Army is on Oahu connecting with military members to try to improve their quality of life, but some Red Hill families were not satisfied. Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth is in Hawaii to focus on aging infrastructure and quality of life issues. Hawaii News Now.

Former Kamehameha Schools head appointed Bishop Museum interim CEO.  Former Kamehameha Schools Bishop Estate CEO Dee Jay Mailer has been appointed interim president and CEO of Bishop Museum. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bill to require County Council approval of time extensions postponed. A bill that would require County Council authorization of time extensions to zoning ordinances was temporarily set aside Tuesday after an amendment to the measure. West Hawaii Today.

Bills would limit BLNR’s power over lease extensions. Big Island lawmakers are hopeful they can get a struggling program to revitalize parts of Hilo back on track. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi Land Trust names new steward, educator for Māhukona on Big Island. Keone Emeliano has joined the Hawaiʻi Land Trust as the Māhukona steward and educator.  Māhukona on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island is the center for traditional navigation for the entire Pacific Ocean. Big Island Now.

Maui

2 arrested, others rally outside Waiehu land at center of Native Hawaiian ownership debate. Two people were charged with trespassing while others rallied holding signs Tuesday outside Waiehu land at the center of an ownership dispute between Native Hawaiians and nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity Inc. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

$198,000 grant allows for launch of Native Hawaiian Owner-Builder project on Molokaʻi. Hawai‘i Community Lending announced grant awards totaling $1.3 million that aim to increase economic stability on Moloka‘i by helping the island’s native Hawaiian community to actualize affordable homeownership.  Maui Now.

Feeding and careless driving cause undue risk to nēnē population on Maui. A female nēnē was struck and killed by a passenger truck on Haleakalā Highway near the Dairy Road/Keolani Place junction in Kahului last Tuesday, according to state officials.  Maui Now.

Attorney: judge’s decision in case involving HNN is a win for First Amendment. A federal judge has ruled HNN Chief Investigative Reporter Lynn Kawano doesn’t have to provide Maui County attorneys with information she gathered while covering the case of a Maui police officer who is now behind bars. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i planning commission meeting sparks Coco Palms revelations. After an eye-opening hearing on Tuesday, the County of Kaua‘i Planning Commission ruled in favor of Coco Palms hotel developers and shut down a petition to void their permits due to lack of progress. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Nagramada appointed head of Island School. Nancy Nagramada will assume the head of school duties at Island School effective July 1, states an announcement by the school. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i public schools to receive $3.1M in federal funds. A federal funding mechanism that provides money for elementary and secondary education is projected to deliver more than $3 million to the County of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Gov. Green's first State of the State address seeks tax reform, solutions to homelessness, climate crisis. More news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Gov. Josh Green shares vision for Hawaii. Gov. Josh Green outlined a bold vision for Hawaii’s future that includes tax reform and ideas to turn Hawaii into a global model addressing climate change — immediately after Green signed his first emergency proclamation on homelessness, which received a standing ovation Monday in a joint session of the state House and Senate. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Maui News. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.  KHON2.

Full text of Gov. Josh Green's State of the State address can be found here.

Decision forthcoming to fill 2 state House vacancies. A social worker, a fire commissioner and a couple of current or former County Council members are in the running to fill two vacant seats in Hawaii’s Legislature. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Lawmakers Seek Shields Against Supreme Court Rulings On Abortion, Guns. Lawmakers are considering statewide regulations on concealed carry and also plan to debate measures protecting doctors who perform abortions. Civil Beat.

‘One set of rules’: Counties look to state for uniformity on concealed carry guns. Every county has been working on its own way of dealing with concealed weapon permits and identifying sensitive places. Now, there’s a push for statewide legislation to clear up confusion. Hawaii News Now.

Teacher shortage complicates Hawaii’s preschool plan. As the state embarks on its ambitious plan to offer universal access to preschool by creating 465 new classrooms by 2032, among the questions stakeholders are asking most is, How will so many additional preschool teachers be found in the midst of the state’s chronic teacher shortage? Star-Advertiser.

Soft hotel occupancy may persist in first quarter. December hotel occupancy was 71.3%, down 9 percentage points from December 2019, according to the Hawaii Hotel Performance Report published by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, using data from STR, a global hospitality data and analytics company. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Police In Hawaii Killed 2 People Last Year. Is It A Sign Of A Downward Trend? The quiet year for the Honolulu Police Department meant it fell marginally on a scale used to compare police killings across departments of comparable size, policing communities with similar populations over the past decade. Civil Beat.

Hundreds petition against a new bar planned for a residential area in Waikiki. The concern is around increased noise and disruptive activity to the residential area just mauka of Kuhio Avenue. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Roth Presents County Priorities To Lawmakers. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth appeared before a joint meeting of the Hawaiʻi House Finance Committee and the Senate Ways and Means Committee on Monday, offering a perspective from Hawaiʻi County as the 2023 legislative session gets underway. Big Island Video News.

Prisoner in Dana Ireland murder might get freedom. Attorneys for a Native Hawaiian man who has been imprisoned for more than 20 years for the 1991 sexual assault, kidnapping and murder of a white woman visiting Hawaii will ask a judge today to dismiss his conviction due to new evidence — including DNA testing — in the case. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.

HFD seeks OK to hire grant manager. The Hawaii Fire Department is seeking County Council approval to hire a consultant to manage a nearly half-million dollar federal grant recently awarded to the county. West Hawaii Today.

Retreat expansion headed to contested case hearing. A proposal to more than double the number of rooms at a North Kohala retreat is headed to a contested case hearing after three neighbors successfully petitioned the Leeward Planning Commission. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County officials ‘eager’ to work with Green on proposals. The Maui County Council’s chairwoman is “eager” to discuss a partnership to help the homeless by setting up tiny home villages across the state, as proposed Monday by Gov. Josh Green during his State of the State address. Maui News.

$198,000 grant allows for launch of Native Hawaiian Owner-Builder project on Molokaʻi. Hawai‘i Community Lending announced grant awards totaling $1.3 million that aim to increase economic stability on Moloka‘i by helping the island’s native Hawaiian community to actualize affordable homeownership. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i public schools to receive $3.1M in federal funds. A federal funding mechanism that provides money for elementary and secondary education is projected to deliver more than $3 million to the County of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Public may weigh in as Kaua‘i utility seeks 50-year permit. Members of the public have 60 days to comment on a Habitat Conservation Plan developed by the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative, which is seeking a 50-year incidental take authorization from state and federal agencies. Kauai Now.

More Native Hawaiians flee Hawaii for Vegas, thousands flock to Eddie surf contest, Gov. Green to deliver first State of the State today, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiians flock to Las Vegas for affordable living. According to 2021 population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, the biggest growth of Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander populations was in Clark County, Nevada, which includes Las Vegas, and Sacramento County, Calif. The biggest decline of Native Hawaiian residents was in Honolulu. Associated Press.

Advocates Say It’s No Longer Whether Hawaii Should Charge A Green Fee, But How. Hawaii's new governor supports a visitor-impact fee, and supporters say they're more organized than ever. But it will be up to state legislators to decide. Civil Beat.

Senators put Hawaii Tourism Authority in the hot seat again. The Hawaii Tourism Authority is headed for another rough round in the Legislature, but the stakes are higher this session, when for the first time, the agency’s future is entirely dependent on getting a share of general funds from state lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

Green to deliver inaugural State of the State address this week. The governor will deliver his speech at 10 a.m. Monday to a joint session of the Hawaiʻi Legislature in the House chamber at the state Capitol in Honolulu. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now

Proposed $1 Billion Hydrogen Fuel Hub Signals A New Start For Reenergized Hawaii Agency. Hawaii’s bid marks a fresh start for an economic development department that was plagued by challenges under former Gov. David Ige’s director, Mike McCartney. Civil Beat.

Darker window tint might be allowed on Hawaii vehicles. Hawaii’s vehicle tinting businesses could see a boom if a bill becomes law allowing vehicle owners to have darker window tinting. Star-Advertiser.

‘One Health’ stresses link between humans, environment. The health of humans is interconnected with the health of other animals, which are both interconnected with the health of the environment. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Thousands flock to Waimea Bay to see Luke Shepardson win the ‘Eddie’.  The surf had blasted sand and water across Kameha­meha Highway. The Ke Nui bike path, in places, was inundated and sandy. The beach extended into Ehukai Beach Park’s parking lot. Pipeline, looking like rolling hills, was unrecognizable. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4. KHON2.

For the first time, women compete in The Eddie Big Surf Competition. For the first time ever, women were included in the lineup to catch the monster waves out at Waimea Bay. KITV4.

Viewing of Kawananakoa’s casket draws crowd to Iolani Palace.  Lines of people thronged the sidewalk in front of Iolani Palace on Sunday for a chance to pay their respects to Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawananakoa, the first member of a Native Hawaiian royal family to lie in state for a public viewing at Iolani Palace in more than a century. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Police chief outlines goals; community survey to go live Feb. 1. After a private swearing in ceremony Jan. 11 for Police Chief Ben Moszkowicz in Hilo, the new Hawaii County top cop took the oath again in a public affair Friday at the West Hawaii Civic Center. West Hawaii Today.

Bone dry: County spigots busy as E. Hawaii residents on catchment see tanks dwindle. The prolonged dry spell that’s thus far been the story of the wet season on the Big Island’s windward side has caused long lines at the county’s public water spigots for residents who rely on water catchment. Tribune-Herald.

Update On Formation Of New Maunakea Authority. The Hawaiʻi House Committee on Finance heard from interim members of the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority on Tuesday. Big Island Video News.

Decommissioning of Caltech observatory on Maunakea summit on track for this year. It is one of two Maunakea telescopes currently in the final stages of the decommissioning process mandated in the Maunakea Comprehensive Management Plan. Big Island Now.

Coolant Leaks At Maunakea Telescope Investigated. Two fluid leaks from the chilling system of the UH 88-inch observatory on the summit of Maunakea are being investigated by the University of Hawaiʻi. Big Island Video News.

Home sales slow in 2022: Interest rate hikes chill Big Island housing market. Big Island real estate agents are hopeful the housing market will stabilize in 2023 after sales slowed in 2022. Tribune-Herald.

Octopus farm is ordered to halt illegal activity. The Kailua-Kona concern — which fell under a national media spotlight in December that suggested the operation and its methods were cruel to the octopuses — was ordered to discontinue its activities last week after the state Division of Aquatic Resources declared it was operating without required permits. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Hawaii Supreme Court Rules Incumbent Maui Councilwoman Alice Lee Won Seat. Her opponent Noelani Ahia had filed a lawsuit challenging the election. Civil Beat.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Bill on residential workforce housing deed restrictions and resale surfaces for review. A bill relating to residential workforce housing deed restrictions and resale, will be reconsidered at the Maui County Council meeting on Jan. 27. Maui Now.


East Maui Residents Endured A Month Without Phone Or Internet After Storm. Hawaiian Telcom says the area is remote and rugged, making it more challenging to do the repair work. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Advocates for Native Hawaiian women, girls push legislators to tackle sex trafficking. Advocates address Kaua‘i councilmembers, law enforcement officials, service providers and community members during the public meeting prompted by the recent publication of “Holoi ā nalo Wāhine ‘Ōiwi.” Kauai Now.

Hawai‘i kupuna watchdog head says program in need of expansion. For some of Hawai‘i’s most vulnerable kupuna, a little-known government position known as the Long-Term Care Ombudsman can mean the difference between torment and safety. Garden Island.

Hawaii Republicans unveil legislative priorities, state Supreme Court mulls Maui election protest, council members, nonprofit leader submitted to fill Kauai House seat, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii’s cost of living is top issue of GOP caucus. Hawaii’s Republican caucus wants the state Legislature to focus on improving the cost of living, increasing homeownership, personal rights, government reform, crime and rehabilitation. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. KHON2.

2 Hawaii Senate Republicans tangled in power struggle.  Republicans added two House seats and doubled their Senate seats from one to two to start the legislative session, but an opening day power struggle between the two GOP senators raises questions about the party’s ability to challenge Democratic control of the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian activist who disrupted legislative opening session faces misdemeanor charge. The man who shouted at lawmakers and first responders during the opening session of the state Legislature on Tuesday is Samson Souza — a known Native Hawaiian activist in West Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai'i Tax Fairness Coalition protest at State Capitol in favor of new tax on ultra-wealthy. The Hawaii Tax Fairness Coalition is calling on lawmakers to pass wealth taxes, and they came out in a peaceful protest Thursday at the Hawaii State Capitol to call for tax justice.  KITV4.
 
Standardized testing and community college costs to join education priorities this session. Last year, legislators took a crack at raising teacher salaries, funding classroom improvements and expanding pre-K accessibility — yet many advocates are saying more needs to be done this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

New UH tuition schedule freezes tuition for 2 of next 4 academic years.  The University of Hawaii Board of Regents has voted on a new four-year tuition schedule for the university system which increases tuition for some of the main campuses after a temporary tuition freeze. Star-Advertiser.

Traffic violators owe Hawaii taxpayers tens of millions in unpaid fines, records show.  An investigation revealed the debts have been sitting for years without efforts by law enforcement to collect. Meanwhile, many who owe money just keep driving — and putting others on the road at risk. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

New city policy bans prosecutors from attending parole hearings.  Honolulu prosecutors are no longer attending or attempting to influence parole hearings by detailing the crime committed by an inmate. Further, they’re limited to providing the Hawaii Paroling Authority with information relevant to a behavior inside a correctional facility. Star-Advertiser.

Officials warn of more traffic during Honolulu rail work.  For years to come in Iwilei and Kalihi, expect traffic to snarl more than usual and construction noise day and night as the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation and its contractor work to relocate utility infrastructure above and below two major thoroughfares in the build-out of the city’s nearly $10 billion rail system. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Josh Green Wants ‘A Better Proposal’ For New Oahu Jail. The facility would replace the aging and crowded Oahu Community Correctional Center in Kalihi, but critics say criminal justice reform should be the priority. Civil Beat.

New transitional ‘kauhale’ village for the homeless planned for urban core. Plans are moving forward to put in another village aimed at housing the homeless in Oahu’s urban core. The site currently being considered is located off Middle Street near the Keehi Transfer Station. Hawaii News Now.

Marines, HPD and federal agents hold raid exercises on Oahu. Under cover of darkness on Tuesday night, members of the Honolulu Police Department’s SWAT team, federal agents and members of the Marine Corps’ Okinawa- based Maritime Raid Force quietly made their way into Aloha Stadium as part of an urban combat training exercise. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Propane shortage hits island. A late shipment of propane to a Big Island supplier resulted in several dispensers posting “no propane” signs this week and the fueling of rumors that residents wouldn’t be able to refill their tanks for weeks. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Cultural Artwork Stolen From Volcano House.  A Hawaiian cultural artwork was stolen from the Volcano House lobby in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park this past Friday, and park officials are asking for the public’s help in identifying two individual suspects. Big Island Video News. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Hospital that serves as a lifeline for West Hawaii is requesting $20 million from state lawmakers.  The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation (HHSC) went before the Senate Ways and Means Committee on Thursday to talk funding. KITV4.

‘If you live here, give back’: Old Kona Airport Park pavilions get facelift. The beach pavilions at Old Kona Airport Park are getting a facelift this week thanks to the donation of time and materials by three local companies. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

State’s highest court considers call for new election in key Maui Council race. The fight over a Maui County Council race continued Thursday. The Hawaii Supreme Court heard oral arguments regarding the battle for the Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu-seat. Hawaii News Now.

Council to consider bills on residential zoning and Kula Agricultural Park.  The Maui County Council will meet on Jan. 27, one week later than originally planned, to allow more time for the possibility of filling the Wailuku-Waiheʻe-Waikapū residency seat.  Maui Now.

US Rep. Jill Tokuda visits Maui on inaugural District II Congressional Work Period. “Heightened urgency” surrounds issues of affordability, housing, ag, sustainability. Maui Now.

Desiree Sides appointed to oversee Baldwin-Kekaulike-Kūlanihāko‘i-Maui complex area. The Hawai‘i State Board of Education today approved the Department’s recommendation to appoint four complex area superintendents to oversee the schools in respective areas. Maui Now.

‘It’s Horrendous’: The Deaths Of 2 Doctors Deepen The Void In Rural Health Care Access. Nearly half of Molokai's population lost their primary care physician in a state that has long struggled to attract and retain medical professionals. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Council Members, Nonprofit Director Nominated To Fill Kauai House Seat. Kauai Democrats are submitting the names of Kauai County Councilman Luke Evslin and former County Councilman Mason Chock to Gov. Josh Green as possible replacements for former state Rep. James Tokioka, according to an official familiar with the party process. Civil Beat. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i County Council talks fireworks enforcement. Kaua‘i neighborhoods were lit up on New Year’s Eve with a massive display of amateur fireworks, both legal and illegal. Garden Island.

Legislature opens with optimism, Russian spy ship spotted off Hawaii coast, parents sue Boy Scouts over child's shooting death at camp, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature Opens With Show Of Goodwill By Green, Lawmakers. Tax relief, mental health woes and an affordable housing crisis top the agenda for the 2023 session. House and Senate leaders used their opening day speeches to float proposals to enhance a state tax break for working families known as the earned income tax credit. House members also pledged to do more to help persons suffering from mental illness. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. Garden Island.  Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Hawaii Gov Signals He'll Sign Ethics Reform Bills That Land On His Desk. Putting pressure on lawmakers, Gov. Josh Green said Wednesday that he is strongly inclined to approve major parts of a package of government reform legislation if they are approved by the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat. KITV4.

House Speaker Saiki's opening remarks for the 2023 legislative session. House Speaker Scott Saiki stood before both newly-elected and long-time legislators on Wednesday to outline the issues he would like representatives to work on over the next four months. Hawaii Public Radio.

Advocates press Hawaii lawmakers for change.  Hundreds of people descended upon the grounds of the state Capitol for opening day at the Legislature Wednesday, many of them pushing for the change they want to see in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers seek opportunity to sit on the Hawaiʻi Board of Education again. The Hawaiʻi Board of Education consists of 11 members — including lawyers, former education administrators, and even a former U.S. diplomat. However, the board doesn't actually have any teachers on it.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Fentanyl Test Strips Save Lives. Why Are They Illegal In Hawaii? State Sen. Joy San Buenaventura plans to introduce a bill this session to decriminalize the test strips as Hawaii confronts more overdoses. Civil Beat.

Feeding feral chickens could bring $500 fine. A bill that would fine anyone $500 for feeding feral chickens is the latest attempt to lower the count of chicken complaints across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Coast Guard releases video of Russian ships in Hawaii waters. The Coast Guard announced Wednesday that it has been tracking what it believes is a Russian intelligence-gathering ship over “recent weeks” off the coast of the Hawaiian Islands and released video of the ship refueling at sea with another Russian vessel. Star-Advertiser. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. Maui Now. Kauai Now.  KHON2.

Matson’s earnings plunge as shipping demand wanes. The state’s largest ocean freight transportation company said after the market closed Wednesday that volume from Hawaii, China, Alaska and Guam all declined from the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Former Chief Investigator Sues Hawaii Attorney General’s Office. Daniel Hanagami took on some of the state's high profile white collar and public corruption cases in the early 2000s. The state’s former chief investigator is suing the state Department of the Attorney General over allegations that the department discriminated against him because of his age when it fired him last year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s COVID variant report detects ‘Kraken’ in 3 counties.  Hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients are ticking up following the holidays, with an average of 94 per day over the past week, according to data from the Healthcare Association of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Covid-19 positivity rate at 6.8%; 5 more deaths recorded. The state Department of Health today reported 1,068 new Covid-19 infections over the past week, bringing the total number of cases since the start of the pandemic to 375,925. DOH also reported five more deaths, bringing the state’s Covid death toll to 1,775. The state’s average positivity rate declined to 6.8% compared with 7.5% the previous week. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu

Residents critical of Red Hill agreement. Top officials from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Navy weathered a barrage of criticism from residents who crowded a town hall meeting Wednesday evening to discuss a proposed regulatory agreement relating to the defueling of the military’s Red Hill fuel facility. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Ex-Defense Contractor Pleads Not Guilty To Mortgage Fraud In Hawaii. Former defense contractor Martin Kao indicated on Wednesday he plans to fight a new federal charge accusing him of lying on the mortgage application for his Kahala home. Civil Beat.

Hawaii woman gets 2 years for illegal lobbying of Trump. In addition to 24 months in prison followed by three years on federal probation, U.S. District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi fined Lum Davis $250,000 and levied a $100 special assessment. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

UH gets big grant aimed at bolstering diversity SPED teacher ranks. A $1.6 million grant was awarded to the University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Education’s Department of Special Education to increase and retain more well-prepared bilingual/multilingual teachers of color. Hawaii News Now.

Over 400 citations issued from Oahu red light cameras. The Department of Transportation said 416 vehicles were photographed since the State started using cameras to catch red-light runners in November 2022. KHON2.

Paramedics have a warning for Hawaii drivers: Tailing ambulances isn’t just inconsiderate, it’s dangerous. Emergency medical crews say drivers trying to get ahead in traffic are using ambulances to clear the way. That’s a crime. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

4 former HCCC correctional officers sentenced in beating of inmate. Four former correctional officers with the Hawaii Community Correctional Center have been sentenced for assaulting an inmate and conspiring to cover up the abuse for years. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Kauai Now.  KHON2.

Parents of Hilo boy killed by assault rifle sue Boy Scouts of America. The lawsuit names as defendants: the Boy Scouts of America and the Boy Scouts of America Aloha Council, and a Honolulu-based group that oversees Scouting in the State of Hawai‘i, the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

State eyes purchase in North Kohala for PONC preservation. Residents can nominate sites around the Big Island to be acquired and preserved through Hawaii County’s Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Solar project proposed for Piiholo. A solar panel energy project that could service more than 500 homes in the Piiholo area and lower electric cost for customers is being proposed off of Makawao Avenue just north of Piiholo Road.  Maui News.

Five tons of marine debris removed from Kahoʻolawe. An estimated five tons of marine debris was airlifted this morning from Kaho‘olawe to Maui, with most of it destined for recycling as “new life” products, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Former Waimea instructor Victor Aguilar sentenced for sexual assault.  Former Waimea High School JROTC instructor Victor Aguilar pleaded no contest to one charge of sexual assault in the second degree on Wednesday for taking advantage of his underage student. Garden Island.

Conservation-based summer program accepting applicants on Kaua‘i. Kupu, a leading conservation and youth education nonprofit in the State of Hawai‘i, is preparing to host its 2023 Hawai‘i Youth Conservation Corps Summer Program. Kauai Now.

130th anniversary of Hawaiian Kingdom overthrow commemorated, legislative session begins today, universal pre-K pledged, longtime legislator Menor dies at 67, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

March, ceremonies mark Hawaiian Kingdom’s overthrow. People from across the state gathered at the Mauna‘ala Royal Mausoleum on Tuesday morning to participate in the annual Onipa‘a Peace March, commemorating the 130th anniversary of the overthrow.  Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.  Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.  Maui Now.

Hawaii’s 32nd Legislature begins today with more access. The state Capitol will open to the public today for the start of the 32nd Legislature after nearly three years of restricted access due to COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Meet some of the fresh faces at the Hawaiʻi State Legislature. When the state Legislature opens Wednesday, there will be 16 new members in the House and two new lawmakers in the Senate. It's the largest class of first-term lawmakers in nearly 20 years.  Hawaii Public Radio.

The Clock Is Running On Plan To Finally Meet Family Demand For Pre-K. Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke unveiled a widely-previewed plan Tuesday to try and meet family demand and create 465 preschool classrooms for 3- and 4-year-olds by 2032. The state already allocated $200 million for the School Facilities Authority to expand or renovate up to 200 preschool facilities by June 2024. Civil Beat. Associated Press.  Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Hawaiian Home Lands seeks extension to spending deadline. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands plans to ask Hawaii lawmakers for more time to spend a historic $600 million appropriated by the Legislature in 2022 with a three-year use deadline. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Tourism Authority names new chief administrative officer. The Hawaii Tourism Authority has named Daniel Naho‘opi‘i as chief administrative officer, one of the agency’s top leadership roles. Star-Advertiser.

State of Hawaiʻi has new disaster, emergency leadership. The State of Hawaiʻi has new leadership for disasters and emergencies. Luke Meyers will join the Office of Gov. Josh Green as State Disaster Management Advisor and retired Col. James D.S. Barros was named as the new Administrator for the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA).  Kauai Now.

State makes headway in establishing new Department of Law Enforcement. As the state bifurcates the Department of Public Safety into two departments, some of the functions will remain the same, but some operations will transfer into the new Department of Law Enforcement.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Indigenous Management Of Hawaii’s Fishponds Is Getting A High Tech Upgrade. The Loko Iʻa and Coastal Monitoring Project officially launched on Tuesday, will integrate modern sensor technology into everyday efforts at up to 30 fishpond restoration projects across Oahu and Maui County. Civil Beat. Maui Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Permitting Inspector OK’d His Own Company’s Projects. An inspector in Honolulu’s permitting department has been running an electrical company on the side for over a decade and has inspected and approved more than a dozen of his own projects, public records show.  Civil Beat.

A year after construction wrapped up, red tape keeps city’s $17M housing project for the homeless empty. Nearly a year after construction wrapped up on a $17 million homeless housing project in Iwilei, no one’s moved in. Meanwhile, a row of makeshift shelters line the sidewalk outside. Hawaii News Now.

Ron Menor, longtime Hawaii politician, dies at 67.  Menor served in the Honolulu City Council and the state Senate and House of Representatives. He served in the state Legislature from 1982 to 2008 and was a City Council member from 2013 to 2021. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Next Info Session Set For Transient Accommodations Rental Code. Nearly four years after the initial short-term vacation rental ordinance was adopted, county officials are considering changes to the code.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

Hearing Set For Affordable Housing Production Rules. The County of Hawaiʻi has has developed draft Administrative Rules for the Affordable Housing Production Program, and a public hearing is set for February 13th in Hilo. Big Island Video News.

Killing of generous Hilo couple stuns community. Relatives and community members are shocked over the deaths of Jeffrey and Carla Takamine, owners of a popular cookie and confections company, who were found dead Monday in a Hilo home. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Aerial sheep hunting scheduled for end of month.  The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will conduct aerial hunting operations to reduce sheep populations in Maunakea forest reserves at the end of the month. Tribune-Herald.

Filling up. The West Hawaii Sanitary Landfill is on pace to reach capacity in less than 25 years. At its current rate of use, the landfill that opened in 1993 has about 20 to 23 more years life expectancy. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Memorial Medical Center reports a seasonally high patient census. In an update, the facility advised that the MMMC emergency department is very busy, and patients are waiting longer to be seen and to be admitted to the hospital, if required. Maui Now.

Four Seasons Resort Lāna’i becomes first resort certified as Reef Friendly by MNMRC.  Maui Nui Marine Resource Council’s Reef Friendly Landscaping Certification Program announced its first fully accredited resort partner, Four Seasons Resort Lānaʻi.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Famous New York architect, family purchase more than 200-acre Hanalei Bison Ranch. World-renowned architect Richard Meier is part of the family who purchased the more than 200-acre Hanalei Bison Ranch on Kauai's North Shore. KITV4.

Adding more appointment times at Kauai DMV. Starting Tuesday Jan. 17, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on Kauai announced adding more appointment times and adjusting walk-in hours. KHON2.

Conservation-based summer program accepting applicants on Kaua‘i. Kupu, a leading conservation and youth education nonprofit in the State of Hawai‘i, is preparing to host its 2023 Hawai‘i Youth Conservation Corps Summer Program. Kauai Now.

Hawaii again ranked worst state for drivers, ambitious preschool plan to be unveiled today, Green backs off from using rainy day fund for climate change initiative, back pay for vaccine-refusers? More news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Once again, Hawaii has been ranked the worst state to drive in.  Researchers compared all 50 states across 31 key metrics, including average gas prices to rush-hour traffic congestion to road quality. Hawaii News Now.

State to unveil ambitious preschool plan for Hawaii. After decades of urgent calls for a statewide preschool system, a public- private plan finally is being launched to create 465 classrooms so that all Hawaii 3- and 4-year-olds can get access to preschool by 2032, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and community leaders are set to announce today. Star-Advertiser.

Green tweaks climate plan, still plans $100M. The money will come from state general funds, which will have to be approved by the Legislature, modifying Green’s previous plan to use $100 million from the state’s rainy day fund to help mitigate climate change. Star-Advertiser.

Renewable Energy Projects Are Back On Track After Pandemic Lull. Supply chain challenges are easing, allowing Hawaii utilities to step up efforts to go green by 2045. Civil Beat.

Hawaii bill proposed to offer backpay to those terminated over vaccine mandates. If passed, Bill 52 would require state agencies to offer those employees full back pay and/or the options to be put back in their original position. KITV4.

Congressman Worries Wespac Proposal Is A Gateway To Commercial Fishing In Monument. Prominent Native Hawaiian practitioners and U.S. Rep. Ed Case are pushing back against new proposals from the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, saying such rules could open the waters protected in Pahahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument to commercial fishing. Civil Beat.

California’s extreme weather impacts Hawaii’s imports. The rain has been non-stop for the Golden State; and even from thousands of miles away, Hawaii vendors are concerned as some fresh produce become harder to find, coupled with shipment delays.  KHON2.

Oahu

Environmental activists speak out on EPA’s proposed Red Hill consent order. On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency will hold a public meeting on its proposed consent order which would require the Navy to safely defuel and close the Red Hill facility and properly operate and maintain its Pearl Harbor drinking water system.  Hawaii News Now.

Eternal Flame for Hawaii’s veterans burns again. The state’s Eternal Flame War Memorial, which was erected to honor Hawaii residents who have served in the armed forces, is burning once again after being snuffed out for weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Straub Medical Center nurses ratify new 3-year contract. The nurses at Straub Medical Center have voted to accept a new three-year contract after working without one since November. Star-Advertiser.

Culture and conservation at forefront of Turtle Bay Resort’s renovation. Much has changed as the resort — now owned by BRE Hotels &Resorts and managed by Benchmark Resorts &Hotels — moves past its first 50 years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii needle exchanges at record high. The nonprofit Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center reported a record number of needle syringe exchanges in Hawaii County and the state in 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Renovation planned for Kona hotel. Just over a year after purchasing the 123-room Kona Bay Hotel  for $21 million, owner 12th and “A” Hotel Partners LP is seeking a design review for plans to jazz up the 60-year-old site in Kailua Village and to rebrand it as a Hampton Inn by Hilton. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

State Reps from Maui County hold key positions in 2023 legislative session. All six of Maui County’s State Representatives hold leadership roles in six different House Committees for the 2023 legislative session. Maui Now.

McCall, Dudoit appointed to head Parks and Recreation Department. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen has appointed Patrick McCall and Shane Dudoit to serve as director and deputy director, respectively, of the Department of Parks and Recreation.  Maui News.

On approach to Molokaʻi Airport, small plane crashes with two aboard. A single-engine Cessna 208 crashed while on approach to Molokaʻi Airport in Hoʻolehua at around 5 a.m. on Jan. 16. Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Kauai Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

Kauai

Kaua‘i legislators will lead at the statehouse this year.  For a small island, Kaua‘i will hold a large degree of influence over the state Legislature this session. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Green faces tough Legislature, government closed today for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, crowds return to Chinatown for new year festivities, bag limits increased for Puna pig hunters, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Chinese New Year in Chinatown, Oahu PC:Melissa Chang via Facebook

Hawaii Lawmakers Are Usually a Cautious Bunch, But The New Governor Wants Action. Emboldened lawmakers who are accustomed to the unassuming style of former Gov. David Ige are about to mix it up with a new governor known for making his pitches directly to the public. Gov. Josh Green is no Ige, and he appears to be already advancing his political agenda without worrying too much about what the other players think. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Legislature already testing Gov. Josh Green’s agenda. The relationship between the state Legislature and new Gov. Josh Green’s administration is off to a bumpy start even before the 32nd legislative session begins Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii housing woes top agenda as lawmakers return next week. Affordable housing, expanding pre-K education and addressing corruption are top of the agenda as Hawaii lawmakers return to the state Capitol for opening session Wednesday. Associated Press. Maui Now.

Hawai‘i Sen. Gabbard to push for Green Amendment. State Sen. Mike Gabbard announced plans to introduce a proposed constitutional amendment that would add environmental rights to the state’s Bill of Rights this legislative session beginning Wednesday. Garden Island.

Planned bill would ban TikTok app on state-issued devices.  State Rep. Gene Ward plans to introduce a bill in the upcoming legislative session to prohibit the wildly popular TikTok app from state-issued devices, part of a national push intended to prevent breaches of sensitive information to China. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: More Transparency In The Hawaii Legislature? It Won't Be Easy. A review of candidates answers to Civil Beat's Q&As this past election show lawmakers weren't all that enthused about changing the way business is done at the Legislature. Civil Beat.

Rocks Or Glass? Hawaii Weighs Alternatives To Water In Capitol Pools. The state Department of Accounting and General Services is asking lawmakers for $33.5 million for the pool rehabilitation project. Civil Beat.

Bounty offered for derelict fishing gear. Under a new program launched by Hawaii Pacific University, eligible commercial fishers can be paid for removing this derelict fishing gear Opens in a new tab — basically, some of the most harmful litter of the seas — from the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

What’s open, closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is this Monday and various places will be closed. Here is everything you need to know about the departments and services that will be affected. KHON2.

Oahu

Chinese New Year festivities return to Chinatown, boosting culture and commerce. It’s not just a celebration for Chinese New Year, it’s a long-awaited restart in Chinatown. Fireworks, the beat of the drums and lion dances are what many Chinatown businesses have been waiting to hear and see for the last three years. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

New Safe and Sound Waikiki program has over 450 arrests so far. Safe and Sound Waikiki has referred 456 arrests to city prosecutors in its first four months — progress that has been overshadowed by a recent series of violent crimes. Star-Advertiser.

City Council considers tougher ‘sit-lie’ enforcement near Oahu schools. A story told of parents dropping their children off at Waipahu Elementary School only to be threatened by a knife-wielding couple living at a homeless encampment next to the campus has prompted one elected official to seek even greater enforcement of the city’s controversial “sit-lie” ordinances. Star-Advertiser.

Department of Health no longer wants 2 Oahu hospitals.  An effort to transfer two Oahu hospitals to the state Department of Health to help fill the island’s desperate need for treatment options for residents suffering from mental health and substance abuse problems is on the brink of failing, with DOH officials now saying it would be cumbersome and cost too much. Star-Advertiser.

2 high-profile attorneys for alleged crime boss Mike Miske could be disqualified from murder case. A high-profile attorney representing alleged crime boss Mike Miske has asked to withdraw from the case that accuses the Honolulu businessman of murder, kidnapping, racketeering and other crimes. Hawaii News Now.

New central Oʻahu solar and battery farm said to benefit 7,600 homes. The state’s latest solar farm has been completed in Central Oʻahu. Clearway Energy Group announced Thursday that its 36-megawatt solar farm in Waiawa is ready for commercial operations.  Hawaii Public Radio. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lawmakers share priorities: Next session of the state Legislature convenes this week. State lawmakers who represent the Big Island plan to address affordable housing, Hilo Medical Center’s expansion, a Banyan Drive revitalization, the General Excise Tax, marijuana and other topics during the legislative session that starts Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Name change raises eyebrows: Captain Cook Fire Station will be renamed the Kealakekua Fire Station without public input. The official change of the station’s name, which also appears on the fire trucks and ambulances it houses, comes without public input, a move that elected and other county officials say is permitted, but has raised eyebrows among some community members, including a former councilwoman and two lawyers familiar with council and government procedure. West Hawaii Today.

Input sought on zoning codes: Four open houses scheduled this week. Big Island residents are encouraged to attend a pair of public meetings this week to discuss updates to Hawaii County’s zoning and subdivision codes. Tribune-Herald.

‘Shared solar’ program could benefit 1,500 households.  As many as 1,500 Big Island households could receive credits to lower their energy bills through an effort to develop solar installations in Naalehu and North Kona. Tribune-Herald.

BLNR loosens pig hunting restrictions in 3 Puna forests.  Hunters will be able to take more feral pigs more frequently in certain Puna forest reserves under new regulations passed Friday by the state Board of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

As session nears, Maui lawmakers mixed over Gov. Green’s proposals. As Maui County’s state lawmakers head into the new legislative session on Wednesday, some already have mixed feelings about the governor’s proposals for a possible tax rebate for middle- and low-income families along with eliminating the general excise tax on food and some medicine.  Maui News.

Opening of Kulanihako‘i High School delayed; no date given. The opening of Kulanihako’i High School has been pushed back from its tentatively scheduled date of Jan. 18, the state Department of Education announced Friday afternoon. Maui News. Hawaii News Now.

State looking into toxic chemicals in soil at Maui airport.  A group of toxic chemicals found in firefighting foam has been detected in soil at Kahului Airport and in the groundwater below, according to the state Department of Transportation, with testing for the substances underway at other airports across the state. Star-Advertiser.

US military returns land on Molokai to Hawaii. The U.S. military and Hawaii officials said Friday the Air Force has returned 363 acres it leased on Molokai Island to the Department of Hawaiian Homelands, opening the possibility Native Hawaiians could move onto the land. West Hawaii Today. Maui News.

Rally speaks out against proposed mosquito release on Maui to battle avian malaria.  A sign waving rally was held Saturday in Kahului, asking the state to complete a full Environmental Impact Statement for their planned “Mosquito Control Research Using Wolbachia-based Incompatible Insect Technique” project. Maui Now.

Kauai

Land Board is sued over permits for former Coco Palms site.  A civil complaint recently filed by a community group against the state Land Board claims the board failed to comply with environmental review law and violated public-trust duties when it recently granted annual revocable permits to a defunct company to build a new hotel at the former Coco Palms Resort property on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Brue Baukol lays out plans for 18,000 acres of newly acquired Kaua‘i land.  With the exchange of more than $250 million, Colorado-based investment firm Brue Baukol Capital Group became Kaua‘i’s third-largest private landowner in June 2022. Garden Island.