Abortion travelers protected in Ige executive order, Russian hackers target Hawaii airport websites, state to add recycled plastic to asphalt, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige’s executive order adds abortion protections. Out-of-state residents who obtain abortions in Hawaii, as well as anyone who assists them, are provided with greater protections from civil and criminal penalties that their home states may try to impose under an executive order issued by Gov. David Ige on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Associated Press. Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.

Whoever Wins, Hawaii’s Gubernatorial Candidates Offer A New Style Of Communication. Outgoing Gov. David Ige sometimes stumbled with his messaging, leading to criticism over his handling of the pandemic and the Legislature. His reputation as a a quiet problem solver who does not crave the spotlight came to the fore amid the coronavirus pandemic, leading to complaints about conflicting messages and miscommunications as his administration struggled to control the situation. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard officially no longer a Democrat. Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard — who seemingly long ago was considered a rising, progressive political star — burned her final bridge with Democrats in Hawaii and around the country by announcing she was leaving the party and asking other Democrats to join her. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Video News. KHON2. KITV4.

Pro-Russia hackers target Hawaii airport websites, state officials say. The Hawaii Office of Homeland Security and the Office of Enterprise Technology Services are responding to a hacking incident on the websites of Hawaii airports that is “possibly linked to similar incidents across the country” carried out by the Russia-based hacker group Killnet, officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Maui Now. KHON2.

State receives over $305M to improve transportation infrastructure. Officials said the money will give transportation leaders the flexibility to determine how to allocate funds to improve transportation infrastructure. The funds will go towards rebuilding roads, bridges and tunnels, tackling carbon emission reduction, as well as other safety improvements. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Department of Transportation testing asphalt mixes designed to improve pavement, environment. The Hawaii Department of Transportation began paving a road in Ewa Beach with a mix of plastic and asphalt Tuesday in a test that, if successful, could lead to more sustainable roadways and less trash in the islands. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Researchers call for deeper look into the harmful effects of sunscreen. UH Manoa researchers said coral reefs around the world are threatened by five stressors including sea surface temperature, ocean acidification, tropical storms, land use and human population. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Voting explainer: Honolulu charter amendment ballot questions. Voters on Oʻahu will consider four charter amendment proposals about how city money and revenues are spent, as well as how to position the city for better decision-making in the future. Hawaii Public Radio.

Aiona and Green differ on 2 major unfinished projects: Aloha Stadium and Honolulu rail. Gov. David Ige has thrown the stadium redevelopment a curve by turning against the idea of having a partnership with private developers of an adjoining entertainment district. But the men out to replace him have other ideas. Hawaii News Now.

Public opening nears for Ewa Beach lagoon, surfing wave pool. A 52-acre recreational lagoon and shoreside commercial development featuring a surfing wave pool and restaurants in Ewa Beach is slated to open for initial public use early next year. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

3 Hawaiian Electric workers suffer burns while working on underground power line. Three Hawaiian Electric Co. employees suffered first- and second-degree burns while working on an underground power line near Pensacola Street Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

The Miske Files: Accused Murderer, Crime Boss And … Used Car Dealer? Alleged kingpin Michael Miske owned a business that bought used cars at auction, providing income, a way to launder drug money and rewards for criminal associates, prosecutors say. Civil Beat.

Honolulu to expand free COVID testing to all Hawaii residents at airport lab. Starting this Saturday, all Hawaii residents — not just Oahu residents with a valid ID — will be able to receive a free PCR or rapid antigen test at the City’s Mobile Lab. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

EIS for aquarium fish collecting approved. The agency charged with protecting the state’s natural resources has approved an environmental impact statement allowing the harvesting of tropical fish for the aquarium industry despite ongoing litigation over the issue. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Beach parks to close for archeological preservation, ADA work. Laaloa Beach Park and Magic Sands Beach Park will close starting Oct. 31 for up to eight months for an array of improvements. West Hawaii Today.

Work On Waikōloa Intersection Safety Improvements Begins October 17. Motorists can expect delays, one lane traffic, and flaggers will be directing traffic, officials say. Work is set to take place from October to December 2022. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

KCCF seeks cupping competition entries. Submissions for the 2022 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival Cupping Competition Coffee are due by 4 p.m. Oct. 31. All coffee entered into the competition must be 100% Kona coffee grown in the district of Kona. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii lacked rain in September. The last month of the dry season was emphatically so for the windward Big Island, and the National Weather Service’s only official rain gauge to measure rainfall in double-digits in September was in Kona’s coffee belt, which experiences its rainy season in the summer. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Voters To Decide On A Measure To Boost Access To Government Records. Fees and charges have in the past priced citizens out of accessing their government’s records. One of the measures that will be on the ballot for the Nov. 8 election asks if the County Charter — the document that serves as Maui County’s constitution — should be changed to make it so county employees must try to help citizens find the best way to ask for government records and keep any fees for producing those documents as low as possible. Civil Beat.

Long-debated bill to protect birds from lighting passes. Measure restricts certain outdoor lighting to keep wildlife from getting disoriented. Surviving a late request to be sent back to a Maui County Council committee for a second time, an outdoor lighting bill that was hotly debated for months passed second and final reading on Monday. Maui News.

Input sought for management of Kamehamenui Forest Reserve on Maui. The Trust for Public Land purchased 3,433 acres of property in upland Kula from the Shizuka Asakawa Revocable Trust in July 2020 and conveyed the property to the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife in 2020. Now the department is developing a management plan and is inviting the public to attend a public scoping meeting to gather input and ideas, and address any questions or concerns. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now.

Maui council approves resolution to acquire 45 acres of A&B lands. Mayor Michael Victorino expressed appreciation to the Maui County Council for approving resolutions accepting the dedication of 45 acres of land from A&B Properties for parks and open space.  The acquisition was finalized at the councilʻs meeting that adjourned on Monday. Maui Now.

Water system planned for future Waikapu homestead community. Pu‘unani Homestead Subdivision would eventually have 161 residential lots. Maui News.

Kauai

Coco Palms ownership open to sale. The current owners of Coco Palms said Tuesday that they are willing to entertain offers to purchase the site of the dilapidated hotel. Garden Island.

Hawaii experts not worried about North Korea missiles, Ellison subsidizes Lanai gas, Gabbard leaving Democratic Party, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Experts say they're not worried about Nuclear Attack coming from North Korea right now. With five missile tests in 10 days, North Korea's actions have people concerned and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency keeping an eye on that part of the world. Two experts tell KITV4 they're not worried about a nuclear hit on Hawaii, because they don't believe North Korea has the technology to make an accurate hit on the island.  KITV4.

Hawaii’s hot tourism summer gives way to cooler fall. End-of-summer vacationers, mostly from the U.S., nearly filled Hawaii hotel rooms to pre-pandemic levels in August and drove the average daily room rate to almost $383 per night. Star-Advertiser.

Pace of traffic deaths eclipsing 2021. There were 90 traffic fatalities reported statewide in roughly the first nine months of this year, surpassing 66 from the same time frame in 2021, according to the state Department of Transportation’s preliminary statistics. Star-Advertiser.

Fighting For Workers Or Fleecing Them? An Ousted Honolulu Union Boss Faces His Reckoning. The trial of Brian Ahakuelo, accused of leading a conspiracy to line his pockets while head of IBEW Local 1260, begins Thursday. Civil Beat.

In race for governor, candidates play up differences on climate change, housing plans. In the race for governor, Josh Green is criticizing Duke Aiona for lacking substantial policies on climate change, but Aiona says Green’s clean energy plans sound just like the Lingle-Aiona administration. Hawaii News Now.

Former presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard says she’s leaving Democratic Party. Tulsi Gabbard, a former Hawaii U.S. representative and one-time presidential candidate, announced that she’s no longer a Democrat on social media on Monday. In her video statement, she called the leaders of the party an “elitist cabal of warmongers driven by cowardly wokeness.” Hawaii News Now.

Ballot tracking service available for Hawaiʻi voters. As the 2022 General Election ballots are prepared for mailing, election officials want to remind voters that they can sign up to receive ballot tracking alerts at elections.hawaii.gov. Voters can sign up to receive text, email, or voice alerts letting them know where their ballot is in the voting process. Maui Now. Garden Island.

Hawaii sees dramatic increase in fentanyl-related overdoses reported in September. Department of Health data shows fentanyl-related overdoses are happening on every major island in the state. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Kalihi rail construction to start ahead of schedule. The relocation of utilities along Dillingham Boulevard for the rail project should be underway ahead of schedule at the end of this year, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige meets with Stadium Authority ahead of announcing his new direction for project. Gov. David Ige has yet to reveal his “different direction” to rebuild Aloha Stadium more than three weeks after scrapping the previous plan, but his point person on the project says “it’s a stretch” to expect that private development will help defray maintenance costs of a new facility. Star-Advertiser.

Lack Of Shelter Space Poses A Challenge For Oahu’s Newest Homeless Program. As a city program that helps homeless people approaches its one-year mark, it has faced obstacles including a lack of shelter space and psychiatrists. But the Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement program has taken 30 people off the streets and that’s a successful start, its director says. Civil Beat.

Kuilei Place high-rise in Moiliili would rival Oahu’s tallest buildings. A local developer is seeking to build a $619 million residential tower complex in Moiliili where major exemptions to building height and density limits will be needed to deliver the project with 1,005 predominantly moderate-price condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

City joins state in enforcement of illegal concrete pour at North Shore beachfront property. On a coastline already marred by illegal erosion barriers — the concrete and rebar reinforcement of this house owned by Josh Van Emmerik created a new level of outrage for Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. Hawaii News Now.

Erosion at popular east Oahu beach marks emotional turning point for some residents. After decades of erosion, the city is trimming and removing trees at one of the nation’s top ranked beaches. Last week, two trees fell into the waters of Kailua Beach. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kimball named chairwoman, Inaba vice chairman of incoming County Council. Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball has been selected chairwoman and North Kona Councilman Holeka Inaba vice chairman of the new County Council that will take office in December. West Hawaii Today.

Saddle Road EIS terminated. The long-sought Daniel K. Inouye Highway extension in West Hawaii has hit another roadblock. Environmental studies, which are required for the project that would bring the cross-island route to Queen Kaahumanu Highway, have officially been terminated — the latest blow to the project in the works since 1999. West Hawaii Today.

State seeks to improve access to Hilo Harbor. The state Department of Transportation Harbors Division is seeking to acquire almost 10 acres of privately owned land on Kalanianaole Street near the entrance to the Port of Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Former resident physician accuses Hilo Medical Center of breastfeeding discrimination. A former resident physician at a Hawaiʻi Island hospital is suing the institution for pregnancy-related workplace discrimination. Hawaii Public Radio.

Wanted: Ant samples from residents’ yards. Residents are urged to be on the lookout for little fire ants during what the state Department of Land and Natural Resources has called “Stop the Ant Month.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Contentious bill to limit outdoor lighting on Maui clears final council reading. The ordinance was passed due to concerns that bright, onshore lighting confuses seabirds and endangered sea turtles. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Land Use Commission approves public-private partnership in Waikapū, Maui. The approval allows Maui County to assume the developer’s required contribution toward a new Central Maui wastewater treatment plant, Waiʻale Road extension and improvements in exchange for 213 additional workforce units in the planned Waikapū Country Town community. Maui Now.

Maui food voucher program extended through December. The food vouchers from Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) were supposed to end in September. But the program will continue while funds remain. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui News.

Why Lanai Gas Prices Plunged Overnight From Hawaii’s Most Expensive To The Cheapest. Tech magnate Larry Ellison, who owns 98% of the island, bought Lanai’s only gas station and started subsidizing fuel prices on April 1. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Mayor Signs Bill To Increase Benefits to Farmers. Kauaʻi County Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed a bill last month that updates the county’s Agricultural Dedication program to provide increased benefits to farmers and lessen the burdensome red tape.  Kauai Now.

Celebrating Kaua‘i National Wildlife Refuges. Friends of Kaua‘i Wildlife Refuges Executive Director Thomas Daubert announced Saturday that National Wildlife Refuge Week starts Tuesday and continues through Sunday at various North Shore locations. Garden Island.

Outdoor dining coming to Honolulu, ethics reform slips off candidates' radar, teaching telescope could open to the public, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki sidewalk scene ©2022 All Hawaii News

Honolulu Hale poised to issue outdoor dining permits. Under the two-year pilot program, six-month permits are available for establishments that are on the ground floor connecting to city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Why Ethics Reform Hasn’t Been A Bigger Issue In The Hawaii Governor’s Race. You might think the stunning parade of criminal wrongdoing in state, city and county government in recent years would inspire a robust slate of reform proposals. But that hasn’t happened in the campaign for governor so far. Civil Beat.

Staffing shortage cited as latest delay in fully opening Hawaii’s new psychiatric hospital. State health officials say that a staffing shortage at the Hawaii State Hospital is preventing the opening of the last of six units at its new 144-bed psychiatric facility, which was completed last year, leaving 16% of beds empty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s East-West Center ‘Is Undergoing A Renaissance’ With More Eyes On Pacific Affairs.The growing threats from climate change and geopolitical tensions with China are underscoring EWC's role in strengthening U.S.-Pacific relationships.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

Is Honolulu Council Chair Tommy Waters ‘Unbeatable’? Waters promises to continue his focus on providing more affordable housing on Oahu. But homelessness has worsened in his district. Civil Beat.

City urges more park activities to curb vandalism. Over the past six years, the cost of vandalism to city parks has surged, dipped slightly and is on the rise again. Star-Advertiser.

Shortened rail route means more buses needed for Kakaako station. Kakaako’s relatively sleepy Halekauwila Street between South and Keawe streets will transform into a bustling bus and rail transit hub when the Civic Center rail station opens there in less than two years. Star-Advertiser.

Makaha bridges’ makeover criticized by some residents. The state Department of Transportation in 2021 began replacing two bridges near Makaha Beach that the state considers most urgently in need of repair, but residents now are worried that a contractor’s recent installation of small rock dams in the stream beds below both bridges could cause flooding to neighborhoods or damage to the reef. Star-Advertiser.

New affordable housing project to serve large families. The Honolulu City Council has granted approval for Kealahou West Oahu to run a new affordable housing project for those earning 60% of the annual median income on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

UH-Hilo observatory could be available to the general public. At an open house Wednesday about the proposed development of an educational observatory at the midlevel facility on Maunakea, Rene Pierre Martin, director of the University of Hawaii at Hilo Educational Observatory, said he hopes the telescope will be usable by people ranging from public school teachers to amateur astronomers, in addition to astronomy students at UH. Tribune-Herald.

Roth touts joint Waipi‘o effort: Says long-term solution should come from both community, county. Hundreds braved a rainy Wednesday night to attend a meeting at Honokaa Gym about Waipi‘o Valley Road with Mayor Mitch Roth, Public Works Director Steve Pause and Heather Kimball, District 1 councilwoman. Tribune-Herald.

Closures Planned For Laʻaloa, Magic Sands Beach Parks.Beginning on Monday, October 31, the two popular Kona beach parks will be temporarily closed for construction that could take up to 8 months. Big Island Video News.

Housing buyout program enables victims of 2018 Kilauea eruption to get on with their lives. The buyout program allows owners of impacted primary or secondary homes to receive a payout based on assessed land values before the eruption, up to $230,000. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor says 2-day running of Ironman World Championship in 2023 not set in stone, though race officials are moving forward. Though Roth said a two-day running hasn’t been finalized, Ironman officials said Sunday that the Florida-based company is already planning — and awarding slots — for races on Thursday, Oct. 12, and Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

In wake of primary, Victorino emerges as top fundraiser. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino is leading in campaign fundraising following the primary election in August with more than $100,000 raised, though he spent much less than his challenger, Richard Bissen. Maui News.

Maui journalists to question mayoral candidates in live debate. Maui County mayoral candidates Richard Bissen and Michael Victorino will answer questions from a panel of Maui reporters on Oct. 15 during a live debate broadcast on Akaku Community Media from Seabury Hall. Maui News.

Maui Voters Weigh A Ballot Proposal To Create A Separate Housing Department. The move to split up the county’s Department of Housing and Human Concern comes as residents increasingly struggle to find affordable homes on the Valley Isle. Civil Beat.

Maui boaters blast state cutting spigots at harbors, urge water enforcement instead. Local recreational boaters said water spigot reductions at state harbors are fueling frustrations over water distribution — especially when thirsty hotel users continue to irrigate their properties.  Maui Now.

Maui County unveils new electric buses. The County of Maui Department of Transportation unveiled six new GILLIG BAE hybrid electric buses. The 35-foot ADA low-floor, energy-efficient buses will initially be deployed within Central Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Deadline Monday for comments on KIUC’s West Kauai Energy Project. Public comments on the draft environmental assessment for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s West Kaua‘i Energy Project are due by close of business today, Monday, Oct. 10. Garden Island.

Council candidate forums are Oct. 13, 14. The YWCA of Kaua‘i announced County Council candidate public forums Thursday and Friday, Oct. 13 and 14 from 5 p.m. at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall. Garden Island.

Ige mulls pardons for cannabis convictions, raises coming for public school teachers, Oahu, Maui bumped up to medium COVID risk, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige reviewing request to pardon cannabis convictions. Gov. David Ige is reviewing a request by President Joe Biden to issue pardons in Hawaii for cannabis possession. After Biden called on governors to pardon state-level possession offenses, Ige’s communications director, Cindy McMillan, said Ige “supports measures that align state and federal laws on this issue and is reviewing the president’s request to determine whether it is consistent with state law and in the best interests of the people of Hawaii.” Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Public School Teachers To See Long-Awaited Pay Raises In November. Nearly 9,200 public school teachers should see a significant bump in their paychecks starting in November, several months after the Legislature approved the move to retain teachers by fixing longstanding pay inequity issues. Civil Beat. KHON2.

To address court ruling’s fallout, senators review changes to how felonies are charged. In the wake of a high court ruling that’s thrown scores of cases into question, state senators are reviewing a draft bill that would change the way prosecutors charge serious felony crimes. If the draft bill becomes law, prosecutors would no longer be allowed to double dip when seeking to charge suspects accused of certain crimes. They will have to pick between using a grand jury or a preliminary hearing. Hawaii News Now.

State leaders, tourism officials call tourism marketing deal a solid compromise. After months of heated debate over whether the state needs more tourism or if there’s too much, the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement have reached a tentative deal to share the duties of promoting and guiding Hawaii’s number one industry. In the proposed deal, CNHA will handle the destination management duties for the Hawaii market ― a role that will be greatly expanded from the past. Hawaii News Now.

UH study: Hawaiian corals select algae partnerships to help survive climate change. A new study by researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa found that the diversity of algae that lives symbiotically with corals in Kāne‘ohe Bay on the windward side of Oʻahu varies significantly in different parts of the bay. Big Island Now.

Innovations In Ancient Aquaculture Could Bring Striped Mullet Back To The Dinner Table. Recent developments in growing striped mullet could help conserve Hawaii’s oceans, establish food security and perpetuate Hawaiian culture — but can they overcome new challenges? Civil Beat.

Honolulu, Maui counties bumped back up into 'medium' COVID-19 threat level, CDC reports. Honolulu and Maui counties both bumped up to the medium COVID-19 community threat level. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just released its weekly update on Thursday. Both counties were in the green or low level last week. KITV4.

Oahu

Maintenance backlog and utility costs to be reduced at 49 Oahu parks. City officials announced Wednesday that a contractor has begun work on the first of 49 parks slated for upgrades that include installation of energy- efficient lighting, high- efficiency electrical transformers, plumbing fixtures that save water, irrigation line replacements and weather-influenced irrigation control systems. Star-Advertiser.

Kahikina: HART Won’t Replace Honolulu Rail’s Unusual Track Crossings. Despite the ongoing concerns of multiple track experts working on Honolulu rail, the debate over whether to replace the transit line’s unusual crossing points is closed, according to Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Executive Director Lori Kahikina. Civil Beat.

Windward Oahu residents: Military’s ‘anti-terrorism’ fence is too big and too close to their homes. The military has its marching orders to build a roughly 3-mile, 8-foot-high barbed wire fence around Marine Corps Training Area Bellows in Waimanalo. Federal regulations require an “anti-terrorism force protection” fence around the training area. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Oahu home sales drop-off continued in September. Sales of existing single-family homes on Oahu in September suffered their biggest drop so far this year as rising mortgage rates and near-record prices amid high inflation and recession concerns deterred buyers. The Honolulu Board of Realtors reported Thursday that resales of single-­family houses dropped 34% in September to 278 from 424 in the same month in 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Fallen tree and sliding homes, signs of beach erosion. Signs of beach erosion are becoming more visible and some experts said this is just the start, as the state and county officials rush to find ways to manage the crisis that threatens public and private properties. A large Ironwood tree toppled into Kailua Beach on Tuesday, an effect of sea level rise and beach erosion. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Mauna Loa showing potential to erupt once again. Is Mauna Loa about to blow after 38 years of silence? A couple of weeks of elevated seismic activity and ground swelling on the mountain suggest that might be the case. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Government cost commission mulls powerful county manager. An ambitious proposal creating a powerful county executive has gained some traction in the Cost of Government Commission, but commissioners decided Thursday to refine the measure before taking a formal vote next week. West Hawaii Today.

Commission supports bill requiring rezoning extensions be approved by council. The Windward Planning Commission has recommended passage of a bill that would require the County Council to approve any time extensions for rezoning applications. Tribune-Herald.

Voting explainer: Hawaiʻi County charter amendment ballot questions. Voters on Hawaiʻi Island have three ballot amendment questions to consider in this year's general election. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Fund would cover costs of managed retreat. Money would help move buildings inland, respond to worsening erosion and sea level rise. In light of rapid climate change impacts, such as coastal erosion, a Maui County Council committee moved forward with a plan to create a separate fund specifically for addressing managed retreat along the shore. Maui News.

Voters To Decide If Maui Mayor Can Ask Appointees To Sign Undated Resignation Letters. Proposed county charter amendments focus on financial disclosures, conflicts of interest and other ways to boost the public’s faith in government. Civil Beat.

Mayor Victorino extends real property tax relief to severely disabled veterans. On Aug. 18, Mayor Victorino signed Bill 110, which extends real property tax relief to veterans who are designated as  “severely disabled” as a result of a service-connected injury while on duty with the Armed Forces of the United States. Maui Now. KHON2.

324 units planned as part of workforce affordable Kaulana Mahina Apartments in Central Maui. The 14.4 acre development site is bound by Waiʻale Road in the east, Kuikahi Drive in the north, and Honoapi‘ilani Highway in the west, near Long’s and Walgreen’s at the border of the Kehalani and Maui Lani neighborhoods. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i lays out plan for $10 million in American Rescue Plan funding. The majority of the funding in the proposed budget — about $7 million — will go toward the renovation of the former Big Save space at the Pi‘ikoi Building in Lihu‘e into a child care and youth center. Garden Island.

Details emerge in Koloa School bomb threat; Santos-Dasalia held at KCCC. The Koloa man who allegedly called in a bomb threat to Koloa School on Sept. 26 had been dating a woman whose children are students at the school, court documents show. Garden Island.

Gubernatorial candidates clash over abortion, legislative standards commission proposes term limits, Mauna Loa backcountry closes amid seismic activity, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gubernatorial candidates Green, Aiona clash over abortion in debate. Lt. Gov. Josh Green and former Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona sparred Wednesday night over the issues of abortion and whether to legalize recreational marijuana in their first televised debate to help decide who will become Hawaii’s next governor. Aiona is making his third run for the governor’s office as the Republican Party’s nominee, but faces formidable hurdles against Green, a Democrat. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Reluctant Standards Commission Proposes Term Limits For Hawaii Lawmakers. The panel also forwarded a bill on legislative meetings but will take more time to examine proposals on public records, meetings and a state voters guide. Civil Beat.

VA secretary says staff shortages are being addressed to better serve Hawaii’s veterans, some of whom face obstacles to treatment. The head of the Department of Veterans Affairs testified on Oahu Wednesday about the state of health services in Hawaii and issues including staff shortages, women’s care and complaints from community clinic providers about payments. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

HTA contract extended 6 months as dispute nears resolution. The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism said in a news release today that there is a “pathway towards a resolution” between the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, two parties involved in the conflict. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

First-ever conference prepares Department of Education staff for safety crisis. Wednesday was the final day of the three-day conference featuring national experts that aimed to guide department leaders and staff members in preventing, identifying and responding to various threats to school safety. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers urge Kaiser to resolve strike, improve mental health care. More than a dozen state lawmakers are urging Kaiser Permanente to come to an agreement with its mental health clinicians who have been striking for more than a month. The workers, represented by the National Union of Healthcare Workers, say that severe understaffing has put their patients’ health at risk and Kaiser needs to boost salaries and benefits to attract more employees. Star-Advertiser.

New booster shots urged as case counts plateau. The average number of daily COVID-19 cases remains steady as health officials continue to urge people to get a bivalent booster shot ahead of the winter season. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii health officials report 1,273 new COVID-19 infections, 8 deaths. The state’s average positivity rate, meanwhile, increased to 6.3% compared with 5.7% reported the previous week. Star-Advertiser. KHON2

Oahu

Honolulu Ballot Proposal Would Steer Money To Affordable Housing. Proponents of a measure to dedicate money to Honolulu’s housing fund see it as an opportunity to help solve Oahu’s affordable housing shortage. Critics, meanwhile, say there are better ways to achieve that goal: chiefly by following the standard budgeting process in which the City Council decides how to spend money each year. Civil Beat.

City council appoints building lobbyist to planning commission. The Honolulu City Council confirmed a construction industry lobbyist to the Honolulu Planning Commission on Wednesday, despite concerns over his reappointment. Star-Advertiser.

Taxpayers will fund legal defense for officers accused of chasing car that crashed, failing to render aid. The Honolulu Police Commission has decided taxpayers will fund the defense of two Honolulu police officers accused of chasing a car that crashed and then failing to render aid. Officers Jake Bartolome and Erik Smith remain on restricted duty as the city Prosecutor’s Office investigates the allegations that the two did not stop to help the victims ― teens and adults who were seriously injured. Hawaii News Now.

Liquor control executives deny culture of retaliation, calling allegations ‘baseless’. The Honolulu Liquor Commission was accused of ignoring a culture of retaliation Wednesday as the City Council called on the commission to find ways to restore the public trust. The commission has been accused of discrimination against LGBTQ businesses and retaliation against others who complained about liquor inspectors. Hawaii News Now.

One month in, improvements seen under Waikiki ‘Safe and Sound’ initiative. Early Wednesday morning, police swept the area. Even during the day, they kept people from loitering. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mauna Loa summit backcountry closed after increased seismic activity. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park officials have closed the Mauna Loa summit backcountry because of increased seismic activity but say an eruption is not imminent. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Lawmakers OK resolution calling for relocation of HCCC. The Hawaii County Council and a state oversight commission agree that the Hawaii Community Correctional Center should be moved to a different location. Tribune-Herald.

Council passes bill aimed at AVs. The Hawaii County Council Wednesday signed off on a bill that’ll help private property owners rid their land of abandoned or derelict vehicles. West Hawaii Today.

Council endorses Keauhou Bay land purchase. The last open piece of property on Keauhou Bay could soon belong to the public, following approval Wednesday by the County Council to purchase the parcel using property tax proceeds. West Hawaii Today.

UH-Hilo enrollment dips again. Enrollment for the University of Hawaii at Hilo declined again this year by 8.2%. Total enrollment for Fall 2022 is listed at 2,977 students, or 266 fewer than those enrolled in Fall 2021. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Community meetings planned for Koa Waena affordable housing project in Kihei. The Public is invited to community meetings this weekend to learn more about the new Koa Waena affordable housing project by developer Peter Savio in Kīhei. Savio plans to break ground on the project later this year. Maui Now.

Maui sees decline in visitors at end of busy summer season. In the last month of a bustling summer that prompted airport officials to try and cut down on wait times, a total of 265,410 visitors arrived on Maui Island and spent $472.9 million, according to recent reports by the state and Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui News.

Maui median home price in September rises to $1,025,000, up 3% from same time. Overall inventory of single homes for sale ended the month at 249, up 7.8% from September 2021, boosting the month’s inventory by 45% compared to the same time last year. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i council approves first-of-its-kind sea level rise bill. With a unanimous county council vote, Kaua‘i is set to become one of the first counties in the nation to regulate construction based on future sea level rise projections. Garden Island.

Queen’s Bath access closed for winter. Effective now, the access gate to Queen’s Bath in Princeville is closed through winter, in the interest of public safety, according to a county press release. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Counties grapple with gun laws, former Honolulu chief plans examiner to plead guilty to accepting bribes, Aiona lags in campaign funds, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PC: Andrey Zvyagintsev via Unsplash

Honolulu police receive feedback on gun-carrying rules. More than 50 testifiers showed up at the first-floor conference room of the Honolulu Police Department’s Alapai headquarters at 10 a.m. Tuesday to weigh in on proposed rules that would govern the issuance of licenses allowing people to carry guns in public. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Council panel sees firearm bill as too restrictive: Committee seeks to whittle down list of prohibited places. Hawaii County’s first shot at drafting an open or concealed carry gun law was deemed too restrictive Tuesday by a majority of County Council members after dozens of testifiers weighed in, the vast majority opposing the measure on constitutional grounds. West Hawaii Today.

Latest Campaign Finance Report Shows Duke Aiona Is Struggling To Raise Cash. Democrat Lt. Gov. Josh Green raised more money since mid-August for his campaign for governor than the Republican nominee has raised all year. Civil Beat.

OHA report casts critical eye on Hawaiian nonprofit’s management of public funds. The OHA report found that 37 out of 50 grants its auditors randomly selected didn’t fully comply with OHA’s documentation requirements. One former Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee said the report raises questions about favoritism. Hawaii News Now.

COVID-19 wastewater report shows drop in cases. The Hawaii Department of Health’ s inaugural wastewater surveillance report for COVID-19 compares the concentration levels of coronavirus in wastewater with clinical COVID cases, using data provided by Biobot Analytics of Cambridge, Mass., as part of a national wastewater surveillance program. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. KHON2. KITV4.

With fentanyl overdoses on the rise, head of drug task force pushes for Narcan in all Hawaii classrooms. Hawaii Keiki Nurses ― the only ones who carry it ― mostly work at campuses on Oahu. There are 54 of the professionals statewide; meanwhile, Hawaii has 295 public schools. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Former Honolulu Chief Building Examiner Will Plead Guilty To Bribery. Former chief building examiner Wayne Inouye previously pleaded not guilty to charges of accepting bribes while working in the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting. Between 2012 and 2017, federal prosecutors say Inouye accepted over $100,000 from customers in exchange for expediting permits through the city’s notoriously slow bureaucracy. Civil Beat.

Intrusive drones posing a threat, Honolulu Fire Department says. Lately when the Honolulu Fire Department has responded to rescues and fires, it has encountered an increase in unwelcome flying objects: “rogue drones.” Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Why Tour Groups Are Barred From Stopping At Some Honolulu Beaches But Not Others. The City Council is considering halting commercial activity at Kokololio Beach. Residents and tour companies say beach-by-beach bans push the problem down the road and don’t solve the overall problem. Civil Beat.

A Sunset Beach property owner is cited for dumping concrete on the public beach. A Sunset Beach homeowner appears to have dropped large amounts of concrete onto the world-famous beach fronting his property, sparking outrage on social media and eliciting calls for better enforcement of Hawaii’s coastal protection laws. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Internal Memo Reveals List Of Experts Concerned About Honolulu Rail Track Layout. Multiple experts across the different groups responsible for Honolulu’s transit tracks have strong misgivings about their unusual crossing design, echoing the concerns that a former project consultant raised this summer, according to a newly released internal city memo. Civil Beat.

City leaders introduce ‘anti-bullying bill’ to create safe spaces for Oahu youth. Council member Augie Tulba first introduced “Bill 52″ Tuesday to prohibit bullying on city property and in city programs, such as Summer Fun. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

City takes ownership of Leahi Avenue after community urging. The city has officially taken ownership of Leahi Avenue from a private owner after there was community pushback due to parking fees and food truck activity. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates Face Big Funding Disparities In Some Honolulu Council Races. Campaign finance reports reveal which donors are fueling campaigns and where candidates are focusing their efforts before voting begins later this month.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaiʻi County Sees Increase In Hele-On Passenger Trips. The increase in ridership is a result of free fares and the implementation of the 2018 Transit and Multi-Modal Transportation Master Plan, officials say. Big Island Video News.

Solid waste facilities to be closed during Ironman. The return of the Ironman World Championship to the Big Island this week is necessitating the closure of the county’s solid waste facilities because of road closures associated with the triathlon. Big Island Now.

Animal Control Services criticized. Dozens of people turned out Tuesday to voice their frustrations with Hawaii County’s Animal Control Services, only for a planned discussion about those operations to be postponed. Tribune-Herald.

On the wish list: $2M sought for Waikoloa park expansion. Bill 219, introduced by Kohala Councilman Tim Richards, would allocate $2 million for the project that includes improvements to existing infrastructure as well as adding pickleball and tennis courts to the capital budget. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New analysis: What’s the real cost of Maui’s proposed Charter amendments? A newly released financial impact analysis of proposed Maui Charter amendments shows the county would face $2 million in additional annual financial impacts for an amendment proposal related to the creation of a separate Housing Department dedicated to affordable housing. Maui Now.

Maui Voters To Decide If Planning Commission Should Be More Representative. If approved, the amendment to the County Charter would require the commission to have one member from each residency area on the island as represented on the County Council. Currently the charter does not require regional representation on the commission. Civil Beat.

Charging stations planned for county amid EV push. Maui County is set to receive four electric vehicle charging stations in the next five years as the state pushes to meet a zero emissions clean energy economy by 2045. Maui News.

Final EA published for water tank in Waikapū to serve DHHL Puʻunani Homestead. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has published a final Environmental Assessment with a Finding of No Significant Impact for a 500,000-gallon concrete water storage tank and related improvements in Waikapū, Maui. Maui Now.

Director of Maui County’s new Department of Agriculture sworn in. Rogerene “Kali” Arce was sworn in today as the director of Maui County’s newly established Department of Agriculture. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.

Kauai

Voting explainer: Kauaʻi County charter amendment ballot questions. Kauaʻi County residents will face four ballot amendment questions on this year's general election ballot. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative commits to 100 percent renewable energy by 2033. This is 12 years ahead of the state mandate requiring utilities shift to 100 percent renewable power by 2045. Garden Island.

Hawaii to get up to $40M for 'climate-smart' ag, Kauai youth facility still vacant 3 years after construction, Honolulu charter amendment could restructure planning commission, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cattle in Hawaii ©2022 All Hawaii News

Hawaii coalition scores ‘climate-smart’ ag grant. A coalition of Hawaii community groups and government entities has scored a federal grant that will bring to the islands up to $40 million to help farmers, ranchers and foresters implement “climate-smart” agricultural practices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture grant also aims to establish stronger markets for local commodities produced using methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or store carbon. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Commission To Vet New Bills To Boost Public Access To Government. Two measures that were vetoed by Gov. David Ige are among the proposals the panel plans to take up this week in its effort to restore public trust. A commission to increase government transparency is set to vote on several measures Wednesday that would reduce the cost of public records, archive government board meetings, subject lawmakers to term limits, require certain legislative groups to abide by open meetings laws and require the state Office of Elections to publish a voters guide. Civil Beat.

HI-EMA assures Hawaii of no threat from North Korean missile launch. Nearly five years after state emergency officials warned Hawaii about a nonexistent missile attack, causing widespread panic here, they sent out a message on social media Monday about another missile launch, only this time it was to reassure residents there was no threat to the islands. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2

Hawaii to install EV stations along highways. Eleven electric vehicle fast-charging stations are slated for Hawaii highways, according to the state Department of Transportation. Each station is required to offer four 150-kilowatt ports capable of charging four cars simultaneously within 20 minutes. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Project to control miconia with butterflies could roll out within year. The insects feed on the invasive plant, which has infested native forests. The state Department of Agriculture and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources had proposed the field release of the butterfly (Euselasia chrysippe) on state lands as a way to mitigate the growth of the noxious weed native to Central and South America. Maui News.

Addressing mental health in public schools poses a challenge for staff and psychologists. Counselors are often the "go-to" source at schools for helping students academically and addressing mental or behavioral issues. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Red Hill leader vows community inclusion. The military task force charged with defueling the Red Hill Fuel Storage Facility plans to begin draining the pipes to massive underground fuel storage tanks in two weeks — a first step in removing 100 million gallons of fuel. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Voters To Decide If Construction Interests Have Too Much Say In Honolulu Planning. One proposed charter amendment would give voters a chance to weigh in on the makeup of a controversial city commission. The Honolulu Planning Commission, long criticized as an insider-ish clique dominated by construction interests, could get something of a makeover soon, if voters approve a charter amendment that would change the mix of the nine-member board. Civil Beat.

Separate bomb scares disrupt Honolulu airport and Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Authorities are investigating two bomb scare incidents today involving suspicious packages, including one at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport that led to the closing of part of several baggage claim areas and a couple of gates. A male suspect was taken into custody at about 6 p.m. in connection with the Pearl Harbor case and turned over to Honolulu police, officials said. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Harbor cargo capacity expansion slated for 2024 completion. A new ocean cargo container terminal at Honolulu Harbor long deemed a crucial state project supporting economic growth is on track for completion in early 2024 after nearly two decades of work that has included major delays. Star-Advertiser.

Lead Detected Near Military’s Ewa Beach Shooting Range, Surfrider Says. The Marine Corps expressed skepticism about the findings. The state health department said it would investigate. High levels of lead were detected in soil samples taken near the military’s Puuloa Range Training Facility in Ewa Beach earlier this year, some with up to 17 times the state safety standard for an industrial area, the Surfrider Foundation said Monday. Civil Beat. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Panel to mull gun carry bill today. A bill that would restrict the carrying of concealed and unconcealed firearms in “sensitive places” in Hawaii County has garnered quite a bit of opposition ahead of its first committee hearing. West Hawaii Today.

Ironman’s two races in Kona could pump $100 million into economy — but is it worth it? The Ironman World Championship has called Kona home since 1981. For the first time in its Big Island history, there are two races, on Thursday and Saturday, to accommodate a surplus of athletes who deferred their entries during the pandemic when the race was cancelled. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui group launches Safe Solar Projects effort leading up to Paeahu Solar case. Leading up to a contested case hearing next month, a group of Maui residents is putting a spotlight on concerns over utility-scale solar projects. Safe Solar alleges that Paeahu Solar Project, a solar energy and battery storage plant slated for 150 acres behind Maui Meadows in South Maui, could increase flooding, and spark cultural, archeological and environmental damage, among other issues. Maui Now.

Hāliʻimaile General Store, Gannon’s Pacific View restaurants bought by Wyoming group. The acquisition of Gannon’s at 100 Wailea Golf Club Drive, Wailea, went into effect Saturday, and the sale of Hāliʻimaile General Store at 900 Hāliʻimaile Road, Hāliʻimaile, will finalize next month, according to a news release issued today. Both restaurants will remain open during the transitions. Maui Now.

Kauai

Despite strong need, youth drug treatment center on Kauai sits empty 3 years after it was built. Construction on Kauai’s Adolescent Treatment and Healing Center wrapped up three years ago. But the mostly taxpayer-funded project has yet to help a single child. Hawaii News Now.

Waimea wastewater project wins project award for county. On Friday, Sept. 30, representatives from the county Department of Public Works and its Division of Wastewater Management received the American Society of Civil Engineers Hawai‘i Section 2022 Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement award for Best Small Project, at the Kahala Hotel and Resort on O‘ahu. Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Partners needed to build affordable housing project in ‘Ele‘ele. The Kaua‘i County Housing Agency is seeking a development partner to construct the first 38 single-family homes in the county’s Lima Ola affordable housing subdivision in ‘Ele‘ele. Kauai Now.

Minimum wage hike put into place, tourists spend more but visit less, gun laws take shape, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pay Raise Activated for Minimum Wage Workers in Hawaii. Starting Saturday, Hawaii's minimum wage will increase from 10 dollars and 10 cents, to 12 dollars an hour. That will amount to a near 300 dollar monthly increase for minimum wage workers. KITV4. Hawaii News Now.

Local tourism businesses reliant on Japanese market continue to tread water. Japan is set to relax more restrictions for inbound and outbound travelers on Oct. 11, but some businesses aren’t banking on an influx of visitors just yet. Industry watchers say Japan’s yen has dropped to its lowest in nearly three decades and that's a problem. Hawaii Public Radio.

Spending soars, but arrivals lag behind 2019 level. Visitor spending in Hawaii is soaring, though arrivals have continued to lag behind pre-pandemic counts and could see further slowdowns given the possibility of a U.S. recession and ongoing global economic challenges. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s attorney general declines to prosecute SHOPO leadership. The state Department of the Attorney General has declined to charge two leaders of the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers with misdemeanor extortion in connection with allegations contained in a civil suit filed by an ousted board member. Star-Advertiser.

In a dangerous trend, aircraft in Hawaii are increasingly being targeted with laser lights. Aviation officials confirm there are more laser strikes happening in Hawaii per capita than anywhere else in the country. Hawaii News Now.

Kaiser Mental Health Workers Not Backing Down From Demands For Better Patient Care. The union and health care provider will try to meet again next week to negotiate an agreement. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Mayor Rick Blangiardi proposes banning guns in schools, parks and other locations. In preparation for the issuance of permits for Honolulu citizens to carry guns in public, Mayor Rick Blangiardi said today he is proposing prohibiting firearms in schools, government buildings, parks, voting locations, and public transportation. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Navy Releases Another 1,000 Gallons Of Raw Sewage Into Pearl Harbor. The leak comes as community members are increasingly critical of the military’s treatment of Hawaii’s environment. More than 1,000 gallons of wastewater spilled into Pearl Harbor on Thursday from a 12-inch wastewater line that broke, the Navy announced Thursday afternoon. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

More than 100 repairs to pipelines at Red Hill fuel facility are needed. A new military assessment has identified 153 repairs that need to be made to the pipelines at the Navy’s Red Hill fuel facility in order to safely defuel it. That’s on top of 43 critical repairs identified five months ago by Simpson, Gumpertz &Heger, a third-party contractor, only five of which have since been completed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Recently completed UH-Hilo College of Pharmacy building finally in full use. Shortly after the award-winning Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy building at the University of Hawaii at Hilo was honored with a blessing ceremony in December 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, forcing many students to miss out on the innovative new structure. Tribune-Herald.

Tensions remain high over ocean access at Waipio Valley. 10 days after the mayor reopened Waipio Valley Road on a limited basis, no one seems to be happy about how it’s working. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Hotly debated Maui County affordable housing sales price guidelines approved. Despite objections from local for-sale affordable housing developers and Maui County’s administration, rules that establish new affordable housing sales price guidelines narrowly passed second and final reading Tuesday at Maui County Council. Maui Now.

Maui County public schools get more than $5.8M to support low-income communities. Hawai‘i K-12 schools will receive $58,193,270 in new federal funding for the 2022-2023 school year to support programs aimed at helping educate students in low-income communities. Maui Now.

Mexican consulate to visit MEO to process passports, documents. The Mexican Consulate returns to Maui Economic Opportunity for the second time this year from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 1 and 2, to process passports, voter credentials, and other documents by appointment. Maui Now. Maui News.

Labor Dispute Spurs Media Union To File Complaint Against The Maui News. The unfair labor practices claim alleges that union members were not allowed to observe contract talks. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Mayor Signs Bill To Increase Benefits to Farmers. Kauaʻi County Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed a bill on Monday that updates the county’s Agricultural Dedication program to provide increased benefits to farmers and lessen the burdensome red tape. Kauai Now.

COVID reinfections rising, GOP team solidifies stance, doctors seek solution for physician shortage, Kauai police morale low, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii GOP LG Candidate Junior Tupa‘i Is Sounding A Lot More Like Duke Aiona. His past statements on social media, in news interviews and other forums might indicate otherwise. Judging by those alone, Tupa‘i is a pro-life, pro-gun activist and election denier who disagrees with government mandates during the pandemic. Civil Beat.

Doctors seeking solutions for state’s physician shortage. The COVID-19 pandemic shed light on the need for more healthcare workers in the state, meanwhile, doctors said the physician shortage is an issue that has been in need of solutions for many years now and they said the shortage will only deepen if more is not done to attract and retain doctors. From last year’s physician workforce numbers, the state is short roughly 750 doctors. KHON2.

COVID-19 reinfections are rising, Department of Health says. The Hawaii Department of Health says COVID-19 reinfections have risen to account for about 10% of new confirmed cases in the state. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Maui Now. Civil Beat. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Big Questions Loom For Honolulu In Coming Years. New City Council Members Will Help Shape That Future. Honolulu voters will have tough choices on the ballot this year as they decide on four council races. But there’s a lot to consider. Civil Beat.

Pearl Harbor wastewater treatment plant needs fixes to avoid future 'catastrophic failure'. The U.S. Navy has yet to say if it will appeal a nearly $9 million fine from state health regulators due to sewage discharge violations near Pearl Harbor. Hawaii Public Radio.

As Defense Secretary arrives on Oahu, families sickened by fuel-tainted water demand help. Some 93,000 water users along the Navy’s system couldn’t drink the tap water for months until it was cleared by the state Health Department earlier this year. Military medical teams saw 6,000 people during the crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Redevelopment of Aloha Stadium to face further delays with Gov. Ige’s new direction, officials say. Two officials behind the state’s long-running effort to redevelop Aloha Stadium pushed back today against Gov. David Ige’s recent decision to move in a new direction with the project. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Former IT professional pleads guilty to sabotaging computer network of financial company. Casey Umetsu, 40, as part of his guilty plea in U.S. District Court, admitted to changing the online traffic of a Hawaii-based financial company that he had worked at shortly after he cut ties with the company, where he had worked from 2017-2019. Star-Advertiser.

$2.7 Million In Fireworks Intercepted At Honolulu Port. The shipment of 13,449 pounds of unpermitted fireworks was sent back to the mainland and then destroyed, the Coast Guard says. Big Island Video News.

Kalaeloa homeless encampment demolished to protect public safety, but dozens are now displaced. Dozens of homeless people living here in the old Barber's Point air strip were recently displaced and now they say they have no place to go. KITV4.

City to reopen applications for rent and utility relief next week. The program launched in April 2021 to distribute more than $225 million in pandemic-­related federal funds to ensure renters continue to have housing. Eligible households can receive up to $2,500 monthly in relief funds for up to 18 months. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Panel to consider bill to curb rezoning time extensions. A bill that would require full County Council approval for time extensions of rezoning applications on Hawaii Island will be considered by the Windward Planning Commission next week. West Hawaii Today.

New Maunakea board could be confirmed sooner than expected. Gov. David Ige named eight nominees for the 11-member board of the Maunakea Stewardship and Oversight Authority, a new state agency that will take over management of the summit lands from their current steward, the University of Hawaii, in 2028. Those names were then forwarded to the state Senate for confirmation. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui council a step closer to buying Lahaina apartments in bid to save workforce housing. Maui County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve on first reading a budget amendment that would allocate up to $11 million of the county’s Affordable Housing Fund for the purchase of 20-unit Lahaina Crossroads. The bill now heads to second and final reading. Maui Now. Maui News.

County Council passes bill to restore and protect wetlands. Under the new law, wetland areas will be identified and mapped if they contain at least two indicators of hydrology (evidence of groundwater, hydric soils and hydric vegetation). Maui Now.

Kauai

Kawakami signs Bill No. 2875, Draft 2, overhauls ag dedication. Bill No. 2875, Draft 2, introduced by County Councilmembers Billy DeCosta and Luke Evslin, repeals the county’s current agricultural dedication program and enacts a comprehensive revision, which proponents hope will improve the incentive system for agriculture. Garden Island.

SHOPO survey shows low morale in Kaua‘i Police Department. Citing poor communication between leadership and rank and file, lack of adequate training and heavy caseloads, respondents gave employee morale an average rating of 3.58 out of 10. Garden Island. Hawaii News Now.

First humpback whale of the season surfaces. Numerous Port Allen harbor based boats were present to view the first whale of the season around sunset, Tuesday afternoon off Pakalas. Garden Island.

Annual Vehicle, Equipment Auction Now Live Online. To view the list of items in the auction and instructions on how to submit a bid, go to the county’s website, www.kauai.gov and click on “Bids and Proposals” and refer to 2023-SA-1. Kauai Now.