Luke finds cash to cover shortfall, slow rebound expected for Japanese tourists, Southwest to end Kona, Kauai nonstop mainland flights, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii LG Sylvia Luke Finds Cash To Cover Shortfall: ‘I Expect Better Of Myself’. Following a wave of public criticism, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke says that her office will likely avoid a previously forecasted budget shortfall that threatened to put her in legal jeopardy.  Civil Beat.

State Agriculture Corp. Gets New Board Leadership. Warren Watanabe, a seasoned agricultural advocate, has been elected to lead the Agribusiness Development Corp.’s board of directors. The election at a meeting Thursday, comes as part of a leadership shakeup for the ADC following the unexpected death of long-time executive director James Nakatani in April.  Civil Beat.

Green shaking up education, UH, tourism boards. New members of the boards that oversee lower and higher public education and the Hawaii Tourism Authority are being named by Gov. Josh Green after soured relationships with the state Legislature resulted in lackluster financial support, including proposals to not fund the HTA and even abolish it. Star-Advertiser.

‘Slow gradual rebound’ expected for Japan visitors to Hawaii. Hawaii arrivals from Japan, once forecast to make a quicker rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, now are not expected to return to pre-pandemic 2019 levels until the end of next year. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest ending nonstop flights Sept. 5 between Los Angeles and Kauaʻi, Big Island airports. On Sept. 5, the day after Labor Day, Southwest Airlines will end its daily nonstop flights between Los Angeles and two Hawaiʻi airports: Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport on the Big Island and Līhuʻe Airport on Kaua‘i. Kauai Now.

Women in Hawaii not receiving adequate prenatal care.  The  state has ranked last in recent years when it comes to women obtaining adequate care, defined as initiating care in the first four months of pregnancy and making it to an appropriate number of doctors appointments. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Struggle To Provide Health Care For Rural Islands Nearly Turned Tragic For This Expectant Mom. For months the fragility of a vital air link endangered the health of people across rural Hawaii. The state is still trying to fix it. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Telcom Wins A $37M Grant To Install Undersea Cables To Improve Broadband Service. The new federal funding would provide additional fiber links between the islands to make service more reliable, and to reach unserved rural communities. Civil Beat.

State adjusts eligibility requirements for Homeowner Assistance Fund program.  It allows qualified households to receive mortgage assistance or financial relief from certain expenses, such as property taxes or association fees. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ocean users advised to avoid research drones, buoys. Ocean users are cautioned to keep far from three uncrewed Saildrone Explorer research vessels that have been deployed around the Hawaiian Islands to help look for signs of climate change. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Council lowers tax rate for owners of second homes used for rentals.  The Council voted unanimously June 7 to approve Resolution 33, which is expected to lower the city’s real property tax rate for the first million dollars of value of Residential A properties and, in so doing, reduce taxes by $500 under that two-tier taxpaying class. Star-Advertiser.

A $900 Towing Fee? Concerns Are Being Raised Over Honolulu’s New Towing Contract. Insurance companies have balked at reimbursing drivers, calling the prices unreasonable. Civil Beat.

Work completed for Coast Guard at new Honolulu dry dock.  Over the weekend, Pacific Shipyards International wrapped up its biggest maintenance project yet at its Honolulu Harbor facility, where shipyard workers over 90 days put the Coast Guard’s CGC Kimball, one of the service’s large national security cutters, through its first dry dock maintenance period. Star-Advertiser.

E. coli detected in Windward Oahu water source.  The Board of Water Supply has detected E. coli bacteria in the BWS Kahaluu Tunnel, officials said. Board of Water Supply officials the water from this source is safe to drink because it is routinely disinfected before it reaches customers, so there is no action required by customers. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Thanks to millions in federal aid, city eyes expansion of homeless camp program. The city’s HONU camp is currently set up in Maili, but the mobile program has been moving around the island since 2019. City officials are looking to expand the program with a new, $3.4 million grant. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Judge to appoint ‘special discovery master’ in Boy Scout wrongful death suit.  An ongoing dispute over the disclosure of documents in a civil lawsuit brought by the family of an 11-year-old Boy Scout killed last August by the accidental discharge of an AK-47 semi-automatic rifle at Camp Honokaia near Honokaa has led a judge to order the appointment of a special master to oversee the discovery process. Tribune-Herald.

Kapapala Ranch land transfer deal could move 7,000 acres to forest reserve. Some 7,000 acres of pasture land in Ka‘u could become part of the Kapapala Forest Reserve as two state agencies bury a 20-year-old bureaucratic hatchet. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island manta ray tour operators mixed about proposed rules, possible new law.  For more than a decade, with more and more manta ray tour companies converging at two small viewing areas off the West Hawai’i coast, ocean advocates and some tour operators have been concerned about safety and the preservation of the marine resource. Big Island Now.

Feline TNR programs ending at 2 island sites. AdvoCATS representatives said they recently received communication from Kamehameha Schools that it was terminating the trap/neuter/return, or TNR, programs for homeless cats at two of its properties on the Big Island, Keauhou Shopping Center and above the Lako gas station in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Ethics Board: You Can’t Keep Those $400 Koa Digging Sticks. County officials should give back the pricey koa digging sticks they received at a recent groundbreaking ceremony for a housing development in West Maui, the Maui Board of Ethics says. Civil Beat.

Maui residents are looking at a possible islandwide tax increase. A bill that would increase the state general excise tax in Maui County is scheduled for a hearing at the county council meeting. If approved, the GET on Maui would go up by half a percent. KITV4.

Council close to appointing East Maui water board. A previous mayor, a former Mahi Pono official, kalo farmers, lineal descendants of East Maui and experts in water and irrigation are all vying for seats on a newly created 11-member community board that will help guide policy for East Maui water use.  Maui News.

Kalaupapa park remains closed 3 years after pandemic shutdown.  The park, in conjunction with the state Department of Health, normally allows limited access — 100 people a day — via authorized tour operators in a move to protect the lifestyle and privacy of the Hansen’s disease patients who still live in the settlement. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami signs 2024 fiscal year budget. The spending blueprint, which consists of an operating budget of $311.4 million and a capital improvement budget of $87 million, reflects the administration’s continuing focus on infrastructure. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County identifies new potential landfill site.  Kaua‘i County is moving to build a second landfill site in Kekaha, Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division officials said, as the division’s head suggested the island’s existing site will likely shut down years before another could open. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County sewer rate increase goes into effect on July 1. Kaua‘i residents are reminded that the county’s sewer rate will increase by 11% starting July 1, 2023.  Kauai Now.

HTA Chief De Fries to step down, education officials lament budget cuts, Hawaii Marines told to be ready for war, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Tourism Authority Chief Announces Plans To Step Down. John De Fries had faced criticism for the agency's efforts to balance tourism with local and environmental concerns. The head of the embattled Hawaii Tourism Authority will step down after his contract ends in September, the agency said Thursday. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

Budget Gap Puts Brakes On Public School Capital Improvement Projects. English learner programs and mathematics initiatives are also not currently funded. Key pieces of the Hawaii Department of Education’s newly approved six-year strategic plan will be delayed or deferred due to a $43 million budget shortfall. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.

Some airlines are calling it a flash sale and if you wait too long, those low prices may be gone.  Certain Hawaiian Airlines routes to the mainland could cost around $200 to get there and back. Southwest Airlines also offered a lower fare with 40% off on flights.  KHON2.

Mental Health Worker Shortage And Stigma Are Hurting Veterans, Troops In Hawaii. A loan forgiveness program is providing incentive for workers, while a Mililani clinic is fighting the stigma. Civil Beat.

New law meant to stop underage smoking faces backlash from cigar enthusiasts. The new law — SB 975 signed by Gov. Josh Green — starting July 1, will make it illegal for tobacco products to be shipped to anyone in Hawaii that is not licensed by the state. It also requires all tobacco products, including e-cigs- or vapes to be taxed. KHON2.

Hawaii Marines need to be ready for war, officer says. The 3rd MLR officially activated last year and is the first unit of its kind. It is meant to serve as a blueprint for an ambitious Marine Corps plan to restructure its entire force amid boiling geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. Under an initiative called Force Design 2030, service leaders envision the Corps returning to its roots as a naval fighting force focused on the sorts of coastal and island operations it conducted in the Pacific during World War II, but with a 21st century twist. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Gates will be open during free rides on Oahu rail system. City officials will open the gates at the first nine rail stations for free rides on June 30, meaning it will be impossible to get an accurate count of exactly how many passengers show up to ride the rail line in person. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

DPS fined $104K for Halawa fuel storage tank violations. The state Health Department has fined the Hawaii Department of Public Safety $104,125 for underground storage tank violations at its Halawa Correctional Facility nearly a year after discovering the tank’s existence. Star-Advertiser.

HPD rolls out retrofitted pickup trucks, changing the way officers patrol the streets. The Honolulu Police Department is rolling out a fleet of retrofitted Chevrolet Colorado trucks, changing the way officers patrol the streets. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Renovations at Richardson expected to be done in a few months.  Since June 2022, the Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation has closed various parts of the popular Keaukaha beach park in order to improve access to the beach and comply with standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act, including installing a concrete walkway to the beach and renovations to the parking lot and comfort stations. Tribune-Herald.

Kanu o ka ʻĀina Charter School in Waimea awarded $150,000 grant. The school is one of the 17 Hawaiian Focused Charter Schools awarded $3 million over the next two school years to support unmet facility’s needs.  Big Island Now.

Maui

4.4 acres of Keōpūolani remain closed due to corroded light poles.  Emergency repairs of rusted and corroded field lights has forced the closure of nearly five acres at the 110 acre Keōpūolani Regional Park in Central Maui.  Maui Now.

Airline hopes Maui delays will subside. Honolulu runway work has been impacting Neighbor Island flights for months Hawaiian Airlines says things should be much better now since runway 8L at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu reopened on May 27. Maui News.

Kauai

‘Managed retreat’ may be beach erosion option.  The County of Kaua‘i Planning Department met with community members on Wednesday evening to discuss the island’s future as it grapples with a series of existential threats due to increasingly severe climate change impacts. Garden Island.

Council approves federal funds for Lima Ola affordable housing project.  Long-term plans for the County of Kaua‘i’s affordable housing subdivision project in ‘Ele‘ele moved forward on Wednesday, as council members voted to approve receipt of $12.72 million in federal funding for infrastructure and water systems for the Lima Ola Workforce Housing Development. Garden Island.

Green lops $1B off budget amid less rosy economic forecast, Teamsters end gas strike, Oahu first responder campus axed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Josh Green plans to cut over $1B from Hawaii budget. Gov. Josh Green told state legislators today that he plans to eliminate or reduce over $1 billion in spending on 22 projects from the state budget because of projected reductions in state revenue. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

Detailed list of budget cut line items. Governor's Office.

Gov. Green signs bills relating to domestic violence and child welfare. Gov. Josh Green signed eight bills at the state Capitol on Wednesday relating to domestic violence and sexual assault, and seven bills relating to wellness and child welfare. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi tackles health care shortage with loan forgiveness, nurse programs. The state continues to face a severe health care shortage, which Gov. Josh Green reports as about 4,000 vacancies in the field statewide. In response, the upcoming state budget has $30 million for a loan forgiveness program for health care workers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green signs fireworks task force bill, several others into law. A bill that establishes a state task force to stop the importation of illegal fireworks and explosives into Hawai‘i is now law after Gov. Josh Green signed it last week. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Gas strike ends after workers approve new contract. Hawaii Gas union workers have voted to approve a three-year contract, ending a two-week strike across the state. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4.

HTA awards $3.78M for its events, enrichment programs. The Hawaii Tourism Authority awarded $3.78 million in funding for its Signature Events and Community Enrichment programs, supporting 76 community projects, festivals and events across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii Governor Axes $71M For First Responders Campus. In an unusual move, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green on Wednesday used his line-item veto power to reject a $50 million appropriation for proposed emergency and cybersecurity facilities in Mililani. Civil Beat.

This Stretch Of North Shore Highway Could Be Moving Inland — With A Parking Lot On The Beach Side. Managed parking is set to come to this popular beach teeming with tourists and residents who come to watch the sea turtles. Civil Beat.

Plan to replace Ward Center with two new high-rises revealed. The largest landowner in Kakaako has filed permits with the state to build two new high-rises along Ala Moana Boulevard. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

State gives Hawaii library system a shot in the arm. The state Board of Education today will discuss $36 million in capital improvement projects for the Hawaii State Public Library System, including new libraries in Keaau and Waikoloa. Tribune-Herald.

Longtime Geothermal Critics Refuse to Back Down As Puna Plant Eyes Expansion. In a move that has ignited a fresh wave of criticism, a geothermal plant on Hawaii island that has long operated on the flanks of one of the world’s most active volcanoes is seeking state approval to expand production. Civil Beat.

Mayor Roth addresses Kona concerns at Town Hall. Mayor Mitch Roth and his cabinet presented an update on issues impacting the Kona community at Tuesday’s Town Hall Meeting at Makaeo Pavilion at Old Kona Airport Park. This was the second in a series of meetings he has planned for the island. West Hawaii Today. Big Island Video News.

Legendary UH Hilo basketball coach Jimmy Yagi dies at 88. Jimmy Yagi, the architect of “Vulcan Fever” who put Hawaii’s small college basketball on the map with energy, tenacity and, most of all, humility, died today of natural causes at Hilo Hospital. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Green signs bills to help West Maui Hospital, expand nursing program. Gov. Josh Green signed a pair of bills on Tuesday that could help finance a portion of the West Maui Hospital as well as expand a program to help nurses advance their careers. Maui News. Maui Now.

Judge Michelle Drewyer sworn in as Maui Circuit Court Judge.  She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Richard Bissen, Jr. who is now Maui Mayor. Maui Now.

Kauai

Passengers departing Līhuʻe Airport should arrive 2-3 hours early due to screening problem.  Additional time may be needed in the check-in process because the checked bag screening equipment is not at full capacity.  Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

County of Kauaʻi launches revamped website. The County’s website was remodeled to enhance its user-friendliness, improve search capabilities and provide access to well-organized information.  Kauai Now.

$25M initiative to restore coral health, monk seal pup found dead on North Shore, Big Island to quit spraying glyphosate on county roadsides, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

$25M initiative to restore health of Hawaii’s coral reefs. Arizona State University on Monday announced the creation of a new $25 million initiative that aims to preserve and restore the vitality to Hawaii’s declining coral reefs. Star-Advertiser.

Monk Seal Pup Found Dead On Oahu’s North Shore. The discovery comes after officials disclosed another young seal was most likely killed intentionally on the island in March. Civil Beat. Big Island Now.  KHON2.

State school board shake-up raises questions. No one who knows why Gov. Josh Green removed Bruce Voss as chair of the state Board of Education is talking openly about the reasons.  Star-Advertiser.

Inflation is stabilizing, but Hawaii food costs high. Honolulu’s inflation rate is easing, but prices for some items are still higher than they were last year, according to federal data. Star-Advertiser.

Hotels offer applicants perks amid staffing shortages. More than 80% of hoteliers across the nation are reporting staffing shortages, and Hawaii is no exception with this year’s projection for state hotel jobs expected to be nearly 12% below pre-pandemic levels. Hawaii’s projected hotel job decline is tied for 20th worst along with Arizona and Minnesota.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii On The Hill: Hirono Talks K-Pop, Cats And Carrying On At DC Event. The U.S. senator from Hawaii talked about a wide range of issues during the 7th Annual Hawaii on the Hill event in Washington, D.C. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Ex-Council chair pleads not guilty to abuse charge. Former Honolulu City Council member Ikaika Anderson has pleaded not guilty to allegations of domestic abuse levied by his 34-year-old girlfriend. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

New HPD Budget Adds Potential Hiring Bonuses, Boosts Chinatown And Community Policing. Recruiting incentives for new officers and civilian hires are under discussion. Civil Beat.

Portal for City’s rent, utility relief program closes after surge in applications. Due to extraordinary demand from Oahu renters, the City and County of Honolulu’s Rental and Utility Relief Program (RURP) application portal closed again Tuesday afternoon. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

The patient numbers at Red Hill's clinic are low. Why are civilians seeking care elsewhere? Earlier this year, the military opened the Red Hill Clinic to provide treatment to those facing long-term health effects from the November 2021 jet fuel water crisis. Hawaii Public Radio.

City to start major improvement project on Kalākaua Avenue. Honolulu's Department of Design and Construction announced that they will be renovating the roads and curbs for the next nine months. The project also includes adjusting manhole covers and utility boxes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Vandals Nearly Destroyed This Central Oahu Cemetery. Now The Community Is Standing Up For The Dead. The state has stepped in to untangle legal issues and create a long-term plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island
 
County announces changes for own pesticide use. The County of Hawaii Public Works Department announced Tuesday plans to end the use of glyphosate-based herbicides on County roadsides, drainage structures, rights-of-ways, and easements by July 1. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Charges against two women — cited in a dispute over nene conservation— were dropped by a judge Tuesday. “It’s a win for the cats.” That was the reaction by Nancy Charles-Parker after misdemeanor charges of the taking of endangered and threatened species against her and fellow Waikoloa resident Ferol Kolons were dismissed without prejudice Tuesday by South Kohala District Judge Jill Hasegawa. Tribune-Herald.

Public invited to learn about Wailuku hydroelectric project on Big Island. The public is invited to a meeting this week to learn more about a project that has provided clean, renewable electricity for more than 30 years on the Big Island and plans for its continued operation. Big Island Now.

Maui

Former Mayor, Ex-Mahi Pono Exec Now Want To Steer East Maui’s New Water Board. The council is considering the additional applicants as DHHL scraps its initial recommendation of Jonathan Likeke Scheuer. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green moves to increase healthcare opportunities.  Governor Josh Green, M.D. announced that he has signed legislation that will expand access to healthcare on Maui. KHON2.

Wailuku parking structure to open in September. The four-story, 393-stall parking structure that aims to clear up street parking in Wailuku town is set to open Sept. 1, according to Maui County and construction officials. Maui News.

USPS seeks to fill 47 job openings at four Maui post offices; Job Fair Blitz on June 15. The US Postal Service is hosting job fairs on June 15 at the Kahului, Kīhei, Lahaina and Wailuku Post Offices.  Maui Now.

Maui parents want more mental health help for woman who allegedly tried to take child. A Maui woman accused of trying to kidnap a child last month is now facing a new charge. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Owning pepper spray on Kauaʻi may get easier with new law. Unlike other counties in the state, to legally own pepper spray on Kauaʻi, a resident needs a permit. A new bill at the Kauaʻi County Council seeks to change that. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kapa‘a Swimming Pool estimated to reopen August. With renovations to the pool beginning in August 2022, the project’s scope of work includes replacing and upgrading the pool filtration, recirculation and chlorination systems. Kauai Now.

Green sets 100% green energy goal, tourists less likely to come back, hanged man tied to Miske crime syndicate investigation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Green wants new ideas to expand Hawaii’s future.  Gov. Josh Green on Monday provided the keynote address for a three-day conference on sustainability at Chaminade University and pledged to generate billions of dollars from philanthropy and outside investment to make Hawaii the first state to become fully reliant on clean energy, among other initiatives to make life in Hawaii easier. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii losing appeal for repeat visitors. While overall satisfaction among Hawaii visitors is high, fewer visitors from North America say they’re “very likely” to return in the next five years, according to the results of a state-commissioned survey. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Fleet commander tapped as the Navy’s top officer. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has recommended the Oahu-based commander of the Navy’s Pacific Fleet, Adm. Samuel Paparo, to serve as the Navy’s top officer, according to senior Pentagon officials.  Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City tries novel approach to crack down on illegal game rooms: Going after landlords. Neighbors said they hope the threat of losing their properties will force some landowners to be more selective about who they rent to. Hawaii News Now.

Brother of murdered man connected to crime boss case found dead in sinkhole. A bizarre death investigation has a Kapolei woman wondering if her family was victimized again because of their connection to the high-profile federal prosecution of  Michael Miske. Hawaii News Now.

Navy claims success in removing fuel contamination around Red Hill tank farm.  The Navy says it has made dramatic progress cleaning out its contaminated well at Red Hill and is cutting back on the millions of gallons of water being dumped down Halawa Stream. Hawaii News Now.

City to accept first 2,000 new applications for rent, utility relief program. A key COVID-19 relief program for Oahu renters will temporarily reopen for applications on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

City reviewing bid to remove Haiku Stairs on Oahu.  Honolulu is evaluating a local contractor’s bid to use helicopters to hoist and remove all of the once-legally accessible steel steps of the Haiku Stairs from a sheer ridgeline high above Kaneohe and the H-3 freeway. Star-Advertiser.

Condo Sales Start This Year for Latest Office-to-Residence Conversion. The transformation of the Davies Pacific Center will create mostly one-bed apartments, while leaving a few floors of offices. Hawaii Business magazine.

Hawaii Island

Questions persist in Maunakea handover.  Authority over Maunakea will begin shifting from the University of Hawaii to a state agency in less than a month, but what that necessarily means is unclear. Tribune-Herald.

Green releases $15 million for Hilo harbor project, road widening.  The Department of Transportation's Harbors Division is working to acquire almost 10 acres of privately owned land near the harbor entrance with the aim of “creating more space in our cargo terminals and alleviating congestion on Kalanianaole Avenue. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Roth to hold second Hawaiʻi County town hall meeting June 13 in North Kona. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth will hold a town hall Tuesday night at Old Kona Airport Beach Park Pavilion to answer questions and concerns from residents — and to provide updates on county business and projects. Big Island Now.

Maui

Mayor signs $1.07 billion budget into law; includes funds for affordable housing.  Mayor Richard Bissen signed into law a $1.07 billion Fiscal Year 2024 budget that provides for a decrease in tax rates for owner-occupied homes assessed at $3 million or less, increased funding for affordable housing and $184 million in capital projects and infrastructure for Maui County. Maui Now.

Businesses feel crunch as Hawai‘i Gas talks continue.  Maui businesses and local residents who rely on gasoline utilities are starting to feel the impacts as Hawai’i Gas Co. workers continue to strike across the state.  Maui News.

Kauai

Climate Action Forum set for Wednesday, June 14. The Kaua‘i Climate Action Forum will present an update on solid waste management on Wednesday, June 14, at 6 p.m. Garden Island.

Hawaii scores low in Kids Count report, ag grants go looking for farmers, Teamsters strike closing restaurants, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii is 44th in nation for keiki economic well-being. Hawaii’s astronomical costs for child care and preschool are a major reason the economic well-being of keiki here has worsened comparatively, pushing the state down from 35th place to a dismal 44th among the 50 states on that measure in the latest annual Kids Count Data Book report. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Farmers Could Use Some Help Landing Grants That Would Boost Farm Operations. Nonprofits have stepped in to help with grant writing but the state agriculture department has been slow to take advantage of available pots of money. Civil Beat.

Green signs bill to improve aid-in-dying law.  As of June 1, it is easier for terminally ill patients to obtain prescription medication to end their suffering.  Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Has Been ‘Sweeping’ Homeless From Public Lands For More Than 100 Years. The term "homeless sweep" doesn't appear in Hawaii newspapers until the early 2000s, but officials have been ordering large-scale homeless enforcements since at least 1901. Civil Beat.

Hawaii unemployment fund experiencing ‘painful’ growth. Hawaii’s unemployment insurance fund is more than two-thirds of the way back up to adequacy after depletion during COVID-19’s economic shock in 2020, but the recovery is causing pain at an inopportune time for businesses paying into the fund. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii insurers could face more scrutiny over executive pay.  State lawmakers say they may seek a legislative fix to ensure the state’s nonprofit health insurers, which enjoy generous tax breaks, disclose the compensation of their top executives and board members following a decision by the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs in April that effectively allows some insurers to keep the information secret. Star-Advertiser.

Talks resume in Hawaii Gas Teamsters strike, but no deal reached. Contract negotiations between Hawaii Gas and unionized employees on strike have resumed, but the two sides don’t appear any closer to reaching an agreement. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4.

$2 million insurance coverage added for island coral reefs. With the Central Pacific hurricane season underway, an insurance policy covering up to $2 million in damage to Hawaii’s coral reefs is now in effect. Star-Advertiser.

Cleaning Up: The Aftermath Of A Honolulu Union’s Embezzlement Scandal. Members of IBEW 1260 had to pick up the pieces after former business manager Brian Ahakuelo and his wife were convicted. Civil Beat.

Oahu

4 Honolulu councilmembers plan to vote against pay raises.  On July 1, the new Honolulu city council budget will go into effect. Including, a 64% pay raise for council members, unless eight of them vote no to the pay raises.  KHON2.

Honolulu Council treads lightly on salary, outside employment talks. The Honolulu City Council will continue discussions on whether members can hold outside employment after killing a bill this month. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the governor’s backyard, 8 homeless patients settle in at medical respite tiny village. Pulama Ola village opened on May 31st, and is now home to eight homeless patients who were recently discharged from local hospitals. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Chinatown Lions Club collaborates with Mayor Blangiardi to beautify downtown parks. Dozens of people, including Mayor Rick Blangiardi and city administrators, joined Honolulu-Chinatown Lions Club in cleaning up Smith-Beretania Park and Doctor Sun Yat-sen Memorial Park. Hawaii News Now.

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden considers limiting visitors and charging fees.  Nestled beneath the Koʻolau mountain range on Oʻahu, Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden was a once-hidden gem. But social media has heightened awareness about the garden’s natural wonders. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Community Development Authority tasked with slew of projects. The Hawaii Community Development Authority was created nearly 50 years ago with a broad-purpose name despite having a singular initial focus: improving one community, Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Former mayor documents COVID-era frustrations, alliances in book. Interviews with 25 Hawaii leaders reveal early concerns that the islands could become overrun with COVID-19 while others hoped the Pacific Ocean would provide a natural “border” to keep the virus out, according to a new book by former Mayor Kirk Caldwell and his longtime deputy managing director Georgette Takushi Deemer. Star-Advertiser.

Water disruption forces closure of popular Diamond Head State Monument on Oʻahu.  The popular Diamond Head State Monument on O‘ahu was cleared at mid-day Sunday after the park’s water system had to be shut down.  Maui Now. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Planning commissions talk shoreline setbacks.  A joint meeting of the Windward and Leeward Planning commissions on June 2 concluded their discussion of several proposed revisions to the county’s planning rules, which would, among other things, require that all new developments be located at least 40 feet inland from a shoreline, twice as far as is currently permitted. Tribune-Herald.

Council members debate establishment of sustainability office.  Formation of a proposed new Hawaii County agency has stalled following lengthy debates among members of the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Land board action paves way for conservation of 642 acres in N. Kohala. Hundreds of acres of land in North Kohala have been re-dedicated to conservation by a nonprofit that purchased the land last year. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

As tourists flock to eruption, agencies urge respect. Even as lava fountains from the erupting Kilauea Volcano continue reaching heights of up to 30 feet, Hawaii tourism officials urged visitors to be respectful when flocking to Hawaii island to get a glimpse of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Tax could fund projects, but some worry about cost. Maui County could have seen around $283 million in added income if it had followed other counties four years ago in adding its own surcharge to the state’s general excise tax, according to tax officials’ estimates.  Maui News.

Maui County finance director to serve on national AI committee. Maui County Finance Director Scott Teruya has been appointed to a national exploratory committee that will look into how artificial intelligence could potentially help local government.  Maui News.

Maui Residents Fight To Save Kihei’s Last Wetlands. County officials continue to approve new building permits close to shore despite rising seas. Civil Beat.

Damaged Lahaina playground closes. The Lahaina Recreation Center playground has been closed until further notice due to safety concerns over the damaged playground surface, the Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation announced Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami leads Kaua‘i delegation in visit to Philippines. A Kaua‘i delegation’s weeklong venture to the Philippines was deemed a success on both the business development and diplomatic fronts, as the group reforged its partnership with the country. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i visitors spent heavily in April. A robust tourism industry is on pace to surpass $2 billion in visitor spending this year, in large part to a stellar start to the 2023 season on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

 

Luke exceeds budget with staff raises, Green aids 3rd medical victim in less than a month, tax break for Oahu homeowners, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke Has Already Overspent Her Budget — On Staff Raises. The overage comes as Luke, the former longtime House Finance chair, is poised to more than double her office budget to more than $2.3 million for the next fiscal year. Civil Beat.

Gov. Green comes to aid of passenger ejected from pickup bed.  Gov. Josh Green, a medical doctor, treated another victim of a traffic accident today when a 25-year-old Kauai man was ejected from the back of a pick-up truck and suffered an apparent concussion while traveling in front of Green’s vehicle.  It was the third time the governor has come to a victim's aid since May. Star-Advertiser.

It’s a first for the state. The transportation department’s “Freeway Service Patrol” is now sponsored by GEICO. It’s a first for the state. The transportation department’s “Freeway Service Patrol” is now sponsored by GEICO. KHON2.

Luke: Despite progress, domestic violence survivors still grapple with stigma, lack of support. Hawaii has made progress in addressing domestic violence and broadening support to survivors, but there’s most work to be done, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke told advocates Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gas strike forcing several businesses to close. The ongoing Hawaii Gas strike is beginning to take its toll on local businesses that are being forced to close because of interrupted service. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Officials warn of Hawaii wildfire risks with extended drought. Drought conditions are expected to kick in later this summer and last longer than usual, extending the high fire risk, according to National Weather Service forecaster Derek Wroe. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio.  Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Council approves $350 rebate for owner-occupants and say they’re just getting started. The $3.4 billion budget passed by the Honolulu Council on Wednesday night included a $54 million tax break for owner-occupant property owners. Hawaii News Now.

Electronic filings of building permits to be required. Beginning July 1, the city’s Department of Planning and Permitting will require all building permits needing plans and all building permit applications for commercial projects to be submitted only through its electronic plan review system. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Rail: Trains, Tracks And Base Yard To Be Officially Turned Over To The City. The transfer of billions of dollars in assets clears the way for the Department of Transportation Services to open the Honolulu rail system to the public on June 30.  Civil Beat. KITV4.

Honolulu Conspiracy Trial Pushed To October 2024. Ex-city attorney Donna Long, former managing director Roy Amemiya and former Honolulu Police Commission chair Max Sword stand accused of improperly executing a retirement payout to disgraced police chief Louis Kealoha in 2017.  Civil Beat.

After nearly 5 years of repairs, Pearl City public pool finally reopens. The Pearl City District Park pool reopened for public use Thursday after being closed for nearly five years due to numerous improvements. Hawaii News Now.

King Kamehameha Day celebrations kick off today. The holiday celebrates the legacy of King Kameha­meha I, who is known for unifying the Hawaiian Islands under a single governance in 1810. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now

Hawaii Island

State judge rules officer accused of harassment can’t carry firearms. A state judge has ruled that a Hawaii County police officer who pulled a gun on a Big Island man in a police station parking lot cannot carry firearms. Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea advisories lowered as eruption resumes, wind vortex forms. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists lowered Kilauea’s alert level from warning to watch and aviation advisory code from red to orange. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now.

Kona Community Hospital moves forward on supplemental wastewater treatment facility. According to the DEA, KCH is proposing a redundant wastewater treatment system with a capacity of 50,000 gallons-per-day (gpd) to supplement its existing 50,000-gpd system, which requires a shutdown to perform critical repair and maintenance.  West Hawaii Today.

Weekend events in Hilo, Kona to honor King Kamehameha I. The event will start with the ceremonial ho‘okupu and lei draping beginning at 9 a.m. Sunday at the statue on Kamehameha Avenue. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Committee to discuss general excise tax and Central Maui’s wastewater facilities. Maui County Council’s Budget, Finance and Economic Development committee will meet June 9 at 9 a.m. to discuss the county’s new authority on general excise tax. Maui Now.

Shoreline advocates block machines at Kā’anapali Beach, seek community input on dune restoration. The groups want the state to issue a stop work order, expressing concern saying cumulative impacts of multiple resorts “stockpiling sand” in front of hotels covers up encroaching dirt fill and vegetation that they say is causing the steep erosion scarp.  Maui Now.

Maui County Is Trying To Bring Relief To Farmers And Ranchers During Times Of Drought. Amid forecasts of less available water, officials want to ensure food producers have enough for their crops and livestock. Civil Beat.

Long-awaited farmland on horizon for lessees. More than 30 years ago, 58 native Hawaiian beneficiaries were selected by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands for leases on Molokai and have been waiting to occupy their agricultural lots ever since. Maui News.

Maui County waitlist reopening for Section 8 rent subsidy program. The County of Maui is reopening its waitlist for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program that provides rental assistance to eligible low-income households with federal funding from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Maui Now.

Kauai

Green signs law for community-based concessions in state parks. This Revamped State Park On Kauai Is A Case Study For Beating Overtourism, Officials Say. New crowd control and parking enforcement measures at Haena could help bring special places back into balance statewide. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Hawaii News Now.

Road closures for King Kamehameha Day Parade on June 10. The King Kamehameha Day Parade will be held in downtown Lihu‘e on Saturday. The parade starts at 9:30 a.m.  Garden Island. Kauai Now.

Kilauea volcano erupts after 3-month pause, Honolulu council pay raise still in play, second homeless sweep in Kailua-Kona, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea erupts and spurs an onslaught of visitors. Kilauea Volcano has started erupting within Halemaumau Crater, U.S. Geological Survey officials said, and droves of people are already making their way to see the lava flow. Star-Advertiser.  Hawaii Public Radio.  Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now. KHON2.  KITV4

Hawaii Ranks Highest in Debt To Income Ratio. For every single dollar of income, Hawaii household have an average of 2.26 cents worth of debt. KITV4.

USS Daniel Inouye warship prepares for first deployment.  The USS Daniel Inouye, the Pearl Harbor-­based warship named for the late Hawaii senator and war hero, is gearing up for its first deployment amid a tide of geopolitical tensions and uncertainty. For the ship’s crew of 320 sailors, it’s about more than just sailing a ship through the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Gift from University of Hawai‘i Regents Chair seeds Hawai‘i Sustainability Fund. According to UH, it will help students develop skills and knowledge to tackle climate change and resource issues in the islands and beyond. Hawaii Public Radio. Kauai Now.

Oahu

Pay Increases For Honolulu City Council Members Remain On Track After Marathon Session. A bill that would prohibit council members from external employment was removed at a hearing Wednesday. Correction: This story originally reported that salary raises for council members and city officials were passed as part of the city’s overall operating budget. That is incorrect. The measure was not voted on Wednesday. Only the legislative budget was passed after a council vote.  Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council approves $3.41B budget. The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday unanimously approved the city’s $3.41 billion operating budget and a $1.34 billion capital improvement plan for the 2024 fiscal year, which begins July 1. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Council unanimously advances Narcan bill. The Honolulu City Council unanimously voted Wednesday to advance legislation that would require bars, nightclubs and other high-risk venues to carry nasal sprays of naloxone, which is used to reverse opioid overdoses. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Oahu traffic deaths rise in first 5 months. For Oahu, the numbers increased to 27 fatalities compared with 23 at the same time last year, with double the number of motorcycle-related deaths — 12 compared with six at the same time last year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu rental, utility relief program reopens next week. The City and County of Honolulu’s Rental and Utility Relief Program will temporarily reopen for new applications next week. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

The ‘out-of-the-box’ solution to HPD’s recruiting woes: 3-day workweeks for all patrol officers. In addition, when the schedules shift every few months, they’ll get two weeks with five days off. Hawaii News Now.

City parking meter upgrades aimed to fix nearly $5M loss. There are about 4,000 on-street parking meters stretched across Oahu. Customers’ money goes in, but the City isn’t seeing a complete return in revenue. KHON2.

This new UH shuttle bus isn’t just electric. It will (almost) drive itself. There’s a new member of UH-Manoa’s Rainbow Shuttle service. And this bus isn’t just electric, it will also mostly drive itself. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kona Police Remove Homeless Camps From County Aquatic Center. The number of homeless residents outside the county-owned athletic facility had swelled in recent weeks. But for the past several days outreach workers have been telling those living there that the police were coming, so many had already cleared out before Wednesday. Civil Beat. West Hawaii Today.  Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.

EPA fines Big Island business $130K for illegal cesspool. The EPA has also ordered Kaloko Storage 188 LLC and Extra Space Management Inc., the respective owner and operator of Extra Space Storage at Kanalani Street in Kailua-Kona, to close its large-capacity cesspool to comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Council gives final approval to $1.07 billion budget. The Maui County Council passed its $1.07 billion version of the fiscal year 2024 county budget on second and final reading on Tuesday. Maui News.

Community meetings on Alelele rockfall project in East Maui draw 100+ residents. More than 100 people attended community meetings held over the weekend in Kīpahulu, Hāna and Kaupō, to hear updates on the Alelele Point rockfall project. Maui Now.

Native Hawaiians clash with West Maui resort over erosion mitigation efforts.  Resort officials in West Maui want to restore the disappearing shoreline in front of their hotel. However, Native Hawaiian activists say they are doing it the wrong way. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Coco Palms developer reaffirms commitment. Attorney Mauna Kea Trask, representing the Coco Palms developer RP21 Coco Palms LLC, said that his client was committed to restoring Coco Palms during the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ Kaua‘i Island Community meeting on the evening of June 7, 2023 at Kaua‘i Community College in Puhi. Garden Island.

Green waste closed at Līhu‘e refuse transfer station until further notice. Green waste at Līhu‘e is estimated to be closed through next week, as State officials and invasive species crews are on site and responding. Kauai Now.

Hawaii bans unlicensed vaping imports, reward offered for identification of monk seal killer, Oahu median home price again tops $1M, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii law bans import of e-cigarettes, e-liquids. It is now illegal to import electronic smoking devices and e-liquids into the islands after Gov. Josh Green signed a bill into law Tuesday as part of a years-long and continuing effort to prevent children from becoming addicted to nicotine.  Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald.  Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now

Hawaii lawmakers take steps to prevent fentanyl deaths. The deaths of two men from Hawaii following a suspected fentanyl overdose involving five people in a Waikiki hotel room over the weekend has spurred Hawaii lawmakers, including Gov. Josh Green, to move forward on measures designed to prevent deaths from the potent synthetic opioid. Civil Beat.  KITV4. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Attorney General prevails in federal challenge to hemp regulations. The U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaiʻi entered judgment in favor of the Hawaiʻi Department of Health and the Director of Health in a lawsuit challenging the Department’s regulations prohibiting the sale of Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC products processed from hemp. Big Island Now. Kauai Now.

Gov. Green signs 22 bills into state law. The bills cover a myriad of issues, including raising salaries and pay for benefits of Hawaiʻi’s public employees. Big Island Now.

NOAA offers reward to help find Hawaiian monk seal killer. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to a successful prosecution of those responsible. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

Report: High levels of bacteria detected at multiple Hawaii beaches. The Surfrider Foundation’s Blue Water Task Force released its latest clean water report that identified three Hawaii waterways as priority beaches with high bacteria rates. Hawaii News Now.

State’s Embattled Ag Corporation Has Chance For A Reset As It Seeks New Leadership. The Agribusiness Development Corp. is taking steps to fill the leadership vacuum left by the sudden death of executive director James Nakatani in April. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Council to review mayor’s proposed $3.41B budget.  The Honolulu City Council is expected today to review and consider approval of Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s proposed $3.41 billion executive operating budget and a nearly $1.1 billion capital improvement plan for the 2024 fiscal year, which begins July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Amid outrage over proposed 64% raise, council to consider measure that would ban outside income. The controversial 64% raise for City Council members is still slated to take effect without a vote in about three weeks. But a related plan ― to ban outside income ― is on the agenda at Wednesday’s council meeting. Hawaii News Now.

Computer Glitches Are Causing Concerns Over The Integrity Of Oahu’s Neighborhood Board Elections. Questions are flying about the results of the recent Honolulu Neighborhood Board elections, with some people complaining they were unable to vote online because of computer glitches amid surprisingly low voter participation in areas known for high levels of civic engagement. Civil Beat.

Environmental risks will persist after Red Hill tanks are drained. Ever since thousands of gallons of jet fuel spewed from a pipeline at Red Hill in November 2021 and made its way into the Navy’s drinking water system, sickening military families, environmentalists and water officials have had their sights set on ensuring that the fuel in the facility’s massive underground tanks that sit just 100 feet above an aquifer is permanently removed. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu median home price tops $1M again amid high rates. Single-family resales fetched $1,109,000 in May, up 10.9% from $999,995 in April and down just 3.9% from the record $1,153,500 in the year-earlier period, according to data released Tuesday from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island EV charging plan withdrawn after criticism. A proposal to require some Big Island gas stations to install electric vehicle charging stations was roundly rejected Tuesday after criticism from gas station owners. Tribune-Herald.

Managing director defends sweep of homeless at Kona park. Hawaii County on Tuesday responded to the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii regarding concerns raised in a letter that demanded the county stop evicting people from homeless encampments without first providing adequate shelter. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.  Big Island Now.

Group to sue over Kailua-Kona sewage discharges.  A group of citizens intends to file a civil suit against Hawaii County over the discharge of sewage into a popular local harbor in Kailua-Kona. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Sheriff recruitment open on Maui. Deputy sheriff recruitment is now open through June 12 on Maui and Oahu, the state Department of Law Enforcement announced Monday.  Maui News.

Woman sent to prison for embezzling $59K to feed addiction. A Wailuku woman who embezzled at least $59,000 from her former employer to support her opioid addiction was sentenced in federal court on Oahu last week to one year and one day in prison. Maui News.

 
/Kauai

Solid Waste Division leaders to provide Kekaha Landfill update. Local environmental groups will tackle Kaua‘i’s ongoing landfill crisis with guest speakers from the Kaua‘i County Solid Waste Division on June 14, at this month’s Kaua‘i Climate Action Forum. Kauai Now.

Domestic arrivals dropping. The number of people getting off domestic flights at Lihu‘e Airport dropped 7.5 percent in May, as passenger counts fell further behind the record-setting pace of 2022. Garden Island.