Tia Lewis: Balance Safety And Tradition When It Comes To Fireworks Honolulu Civil Beat Tia Lewis March 2, 2025 Original Article The air smelled of sulfur and smoke, the streets were covered in the red shreds of firecracker casings. A thick haze blurred Waiehu, Maui, glowing with the bursts of aerials. Some legal, most not. It was New Year’s Eve in Hawai‘i, and for as long as I could remember, this was the way we welcomed the new year. As a kid, I’d sit on the driveway with my family, lighting fountains and bright spinning flowers while Maoli played on the speaker. The crackling pops echoing down the street. Uncles would set off the more “giant” fireworks in the backyard, while my cousins and I lit sparklers from Walmart. The chaos, the noise, the smell, it was all part of the tradition. This New Year’s Eve, celebrations took a dark turn when the terrible explosion in Salt Lake left six people dead and many seriously injured. This reignited the debate over Hawai‘i’s long-standing love affair with fireworks. The question now isn’t whether something needs to change, it’s how we can balance safety with tradition. Because for many of us, New Year’s Eve just wouldn’t be the same without fireworks. “For those that have grown up here, we’ve seen how fireworks has sort of become a part of tradition and culture,” says Sen. Brandon Elefante, who chairs the Public Safety Committee. “In this day and age, fireworks has gotten out of hand and out of control, especially with illegal fireworks, to a point where people have lost their lives or have been seriously injured.” So, how can lawmakers crack down on illegal fireworks while preserving a tradition deeply woven into Hawai‘i’s culture? Enforcement remains the biggest obstacle. Law enforcement officials argue that current regulations are nearly impossible to uphold, as illegal aerials continue to flood in through shipping containers. While an outright ban was initially considered, legislators backed off, instead shifting their focus to stricter penalties and port inspections. Senate Bill 1226 proposes a shipping container inspection program to stop illegal fireworks at the source. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 999 increases fines for minor offenses and Senate Bill 302 protects the use of fireworks for cultural purposes but requires a permit for that use. With such widespread participation, acquiring a permit would likely be a challenge, especially with a cap on how many permits can be issued per person. The demand would far outweigh the supply, leaving many unable to obtain legal access to fireworks. Even so, no matter how strict the laws become, people will find a way to pop fireworks, whether through secret underground purchases or simply ignoring enforcement efforts. The balance between safety and tradition remains delicate and the idea of a silent New Year’s Eve feels unimaginable. Fireworks are more than just noise and light, they symbolize renewal, a way to cast out bad luck and welcome a fresh start. It’s an act of community bonding, a connection to heritage and a part of our local culture here in Hawai’i. Growing up in Waiehu, fireworks were an essential part of my New Year’s Eve. As someone of Chinese and Filipino heritage, my family has always embraced the belief that fireworks ward off evil spirits, ensuring a fresh start to the new year. The deafening cracks of firecrackers and sparkly bursts of aerials were more of a tradition for my family, rooted in cultural superstition and the hope for prosperity, protection and good fortune. Alongside the loud pops coming from neighboring streets, there was always an unspoken awareness of the risks. We all knew someone who had burned their fingers lighting a firework too soon or had a close call with an unexpected explosion. Reflecting back, it is almost like we turned a cold shoulder to the news reports of homes catching fire, pets running away in fear and all the injuries. We thought we were invincible. I was a very anxious kid when it came to fire and lighters; I was always hesitant to light fireworks myself. However, my aunties who were firm believers in the tradition always found a way to persuade me, reminding me that lighting at least one firework would bring me good luck for the new year. Instead of a lighter, I’d use a green mosquito repellent coil, my own little compromise between fear and tradition. Despite my initial hesitation, there was always that thrill in finally lighting the fuse and quickly stepping back, watching as the sparks traveled down before erupting into a burst of color. In that moment, fear gave way to excitement, and I felt a sense of connection to the generations before me who had upheld this tradition. New Year’s Eve nights carry the sound of laughter and cheers with a lingering scent of smoke. This night is so important to many of us. It reminds us that this is the one night the entire island is united in celebration, bound by culture, superstition and the unshakable belief that the new year should begin with a bang. Yet it is still so important to recognize the responsibility that comes with the use of fireworks. Following the rules and using fireworks responsibly ensures that this tradition can continue without causing harm. By finding a balance between celebration and safety, we can preserve what makes these moments of the New Year so special while respecting the well-being and safety of our communities.

Honolulu Dept. of Parks and Recreation seeks to increase number of city parks Star-Advertiser Jamm Aquino April 23, 2025 Original Article Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation is going forth with efforts to increase the number of city parks with recreational dog privileges. Currently fewer than 15% of these public spaces allow leashed or unleashed dogs. DPR is proposing a comprehensive change to parks island-wide by allowing leashed animals in more city parks, but while also looking for community feedback. (photos)

Gov. Green signs landmark legislation pertaining to Maui Wildfires Settlement Maui Now July 8, 2025 Original Article Gov. Josh Green, M.D. has enacted legislation to solidify the global settlement for claims relating to the August 2023 Maui wildfires and to further codify the role of Hawai‘i’s first State Fire Marshal in nearly 46 years. “Today we are re-envisioning the path forward in the roadmap of wildfire prevention and recovery,” said Green. “We are taking action from both ends of the wildfire spectrum — building a more robust fire prevention framework within the state and enacting historic legislation that will aid in timely access to compensation following disaster. This crisis impacts us on many fronts, and it is time we tackle it the same way, from multiple directions.” HB 1001: Relating to settlement of claims related to the Maui wildfires : House Bill 1001 (Act 301) establishes the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund to provide dedicated funding for those affected by the 2023 Maui wildfires. The bill appropriates $807.5 million to support the state’s contribution in the settlement of claims, which shall be deposited into the trust fund. Additional contributions to the state fund include funding from the County of Maui, Hawaiian Electric, Kamehameha Schools, Charter Communications/Spectrum, Hawaiian Telcom and West Maui Land Company. Green sought to establish this funding to provide timely compensation for survivors’ claims as an alternative to lengthy litigation, ensuring those affected do not have to wait years to rebuild their lives. Recipients of compensation from the settlement trust fund shall agree to release the state and any additional parties that contribute to the fund from all further liability arising from the Maui wildfires. “This legislation is a huge win and sets a new precedent for swift settlement of claims for wildfire victims,” said Green. “It should not take years for people to see compensation or begin rebuilding. This is about healing, restoring trust and helping families recover as quickly as possible in the place they call home.” The measure emphasizes providing meaningful compensation by specifying that property and casualty insurance companies can only recover payments made to a policyholder through a statutory lien. Green said this provision demonstrates the state’s commitment to prioritizing the individuals affected by the wildfire to receive claims directly. The settlement agreement totals $4.037 billion and resolves claims of liability against multiple defendants, including the County of Maui. The agreement aims to reduce the legal load of the judicial system while avoiding the high costs associated with litigation. HB 1064: Relating to fire protection : In accordance with the Fire Safety Research Institute’s three-phase report — developed to improve fire preparedness and response following the August 2023 Maui wildfires — House Bill 1064 (Act 302) effectuates the recommendations provided in “Phase 3” of the report. Phase 3 focuses on the forward-looking portion of the investigation and proposes improvements to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, which was originally established under Act 209, Session Law of Hawai‘i 2024. Under Act 302, the Office of the State Fire Marshal is transferred to the Department of Law Enforcement and will be led by the State Fire Marshal. The legislation further clarifies the roles, duties, and discretionary authority of both the Office and the State Fire Marshal, supporting the state’s efforts to provide coordinated, statewide fire prevention and readiness strategies. To enhance coordination between the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council, the bill outlines responsibilities and the organizational structure related to matters such as reporting and recommending amendments to the state fire code. The bill requires the Fire Chief of each county to investigate and maintain an annual record of fire occurrences. These records must be submitted to the Office of the State Fire Marshal for centralized analysis. The county submissions will assist the State Fire Marshal in compiling biennial statistical reports, including those made available to the public and those submitted to the Legislature. “Last month, I appointed Dori Booth as Hawai‘i’s new State Fire Marshal, reviving a critical public safety position that has been vacant for nearly 46 years,” said Green. “This appointment marks a turning point as we redefine the role — empowering the office with clear authority and resources to better protect our state through fire prevention strategies and analysis.” “My first month in office has been both eye-opening and incredibly encouraging,” said State Fire Marshal Dori Booth. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet with dedicated state and county partners, as well as private stakeholders, who are all working tirelessly to enhance fire prevention, readiness, and resiliency across our islands. These conversations have been instrumental in shaping my initial assessments and understanding the unique strengths each organization brings to the table. The feedback I’ve received has affirmed the vital role the Fire Marshal’s Office can play — not only in supporting these existing efforts, but also in unifying them to build a stronger, more resilient Hawai‘i. HB 1064 is a meaningful step forward, and I’m honored to stand with so many committed partners as we move toward a safer future together.” Lastly, HB 1064 establishes the State Fire Marshal Selection Commission and defines its roles and structure. The selection commission will be given the authority to appoint and remove the State Fire Marshal, evaluate the State Fire Marshal’s performance, and address matters of public interest. “With the State Fire Marshal position re-established for the first time in nearly five decades, this legislation gives the office the structure, authority, and support it needs to succeed,” said Senator Brandon Elefante (Senate District 16 – ‘Aiea, ‘Aiea Heights, Hālawa, Pearlridge, Newtown, Royal Summit, Waimalu, Waiau, Momilani, Pacific Palisades, and Pearl City), who chairs the Senate Public Safety and Military Affairs Committee. “It’s a significant step in building a stronger, more coordinated approach to fire prevention and public safety across Hawai‘i.” There is $2.2 million appropriated in fiscal year 2026 and an equal amount for fiscal year 2027 to support the establishment and operations of the Office and State Fire Marshal.

State leaders break ground on new Central Oʻahu agriculture and food hub KITV Gil Cano November 14, 2025 Original Article WAHIAWĀ, Hawaiʻi (Island News) -- State leaders broke ground Friday on a new agriculture and food hub in Wahiawā, a project aimed at boosting local food production and reducing Hawaiʻi’s reliance on imports. The event, held in Whitmore Village, featured remarks from First Lady Jaime Kanani Green, Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz and other state officials. A blessing was performed before the ceremony, and local vendors showcased products that the hub is designed to support. The Central Oʻahu Agriculture and Food Hub is part of a statewide effort to increase locally sourced meals in public schools and expand the market for Hawaiʻi farmers and food producers. Officials say the project is expected to help feed keiki, create jobs and give farmers the infrastructure they need to grow and scale their businesses. First Lady Jaime Kanani Green thanked lawmakers for setting statewide goals for local food sourcing, saying the hub will help Hawaiʻi move closer to meeting them. “Mahalo to our legislators, not only for their vision calling for 30% of locally sourced school meals by 2030 and aiming for 50% locally procured food by 2050, but also for providing the resources we need for the infrastructure like this food hub to achieve our goals,” Green said. “We can create local jobs, pathways for our students, help expand exports — so many compounding effects that will revitalize the community,” Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz said. The hub is also intended to help reduce dependence on imported foods by supporting more locally grown fruits, vegetables and value-added products. Speakers at the event said they hope the project will inspire innovation and strengthen rural communities statewide.

Gov. Josh Green could veto 19 bills. Here are 5 you should know about Hawaiʻi Public Radio Ashley Mizuo June 10, 2025 Original Article The 19 bills on Gov. Josh Green's intent-to-veto list impact many different issues, from criminal justice to housing to taxes. Just because a bill is on this list, though, doesn’t guarantee that the governor will veto it — he just had to notify the Legislature by June 24 of bills that could be vetoed. Green has until July 9 to make his final decision. In the meantime, the state Legislature can decide if it wants to come back into session to override any vetoes with a two-thirds majority. Here are the five bills on the list that HPR is paying close attention to. 1. Asset Forfeiture: HB126 This measure would change the state’s criminal asset forfeiture program. What does that mean? It’s when law enforcement can seize property to investigate crimes — even if no one has actually been charged. Lawmakers passed a bill that would require law enforcement to return the seized property to someone who has not been charged with a crime after one year. Currently, the seized property could be forfeited even if no charges were brought against the owner. It would also establish better reporting requirements for the state Attorney General’s Office. Green wrote that the one-year restriction is not enough time for law enforcement to file charges and that forfeited property is important in investigations. House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee Chair David Tarnas explained that if the measure is vetoed by the governor, he will continue to work on it next year. “We did suggest in our bill that the assets would only be able to be forfeited once an individual is charged. And so hopefully we'll be able to stay with that as the trigger, but we would extend the time. So rather than just being one year, maybe two years will be sufficient,” he said. “We'll have to work on this and see if that's going to be the right combination of things so we can have reform.” While Green was a lawmaker, he introduced a bill in 2016 that would have required a conviction for property to be permanently seized. 2. Tax Credits: HB796 This measure would have significantly reduced most tax credits offered in the state by either putting a five-year sunset on them or, in the sixth year, 2031, beginning to reduce them by one-third over three years. The tax credits ranged from those for renewable energy projects to the film industry. Green wrote that “removing the specific tax exemptions afforded to these entities would provide little financial benefit to the state while harming, in particular, sugarcane producers.” 3. Solitary Confinement Regulation: SB104 Another measure being considered by Green for a veto would set stronger regulations on the use of solitary confinement on inmates. Kat Brady, the coordinator of the Community Alliance on Prisons, has been fighting for reform of the state’s use of solitary confinement for the last decade. “Isolation with absolutely no programs, no books, nothing – you're thrown in a cell with a little thin mattress on the floor and you have nothing, and maybe you get out for one hour a day,” she said. “Humans are social creatures and to isolate people – it's so inhumane.” A 2021 report showed that 245 inmates in Hawaiʻi were put in solitary confinement – 97 were kept there for over a year. Green wrote that the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation already has policies in place and follows national standards. He added that the department is working with the Correctional Systems Oversight Commission to amend its policies and procedures. However, in written testimony for the measure, the Correctional Systems Oversight Commission supported the bill and wrote that it was concerned about the current operations at DCR regarding solitary confinement. “The Commission is extremely concerned about the long-term physical and psychological effects of 12-plus months in a segregated housing setting, which are now well-documented and studied. The trend nationally is to decrease the amount of time in segregated housing settings,” it wrote. “With the state of Hawaii's transition to a therapeutic model of corrections, SHIP should be reevaluated and potentially eliminated in totality as it does not align with a rehabilitative framework.” 4. Permits for single- and multi-family housing: SB66 The measure would require counties to grant building permits to single and multi-family homes within 60 days if the application is certified by a licensed engineer and an architect. Senate Housing Committee Chair Stanley Chang explained that it’s a way to speed up the ability for people to improve their homes. “Building departments are extremely overburdened that permit times can take up to a year or longer, even for simple single-family homes or two-story residential as this bill addresses,” he said. “This enables homeowners across the state to improve their properties without being dragged on for years at a time by the building departments.” The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting was one of the entities that opposed the measure. DPP Director Dawn Takeuchi Apuna wrote in her testimony on the measure that the bill could jeopardize the safety of the homes. “Everyone, including DPP, wants building permits issued quickly, but it should not be at the cost of life and safety,” she wrote. “The review that determines compliance with codes is essential to the approval of the building permit. By simply allowing the “approval” of a building permit without the proper review for compliance with the codes defeats the purpose of the building permit review and places the public at great risk.” Green wrote that he is considering a veto on the measure because it would undermine regulatory agencies and create a conflict of interest for professionals. 5. State Budget: HB300 Green is considering vetoing line items from the state’s about $20 billion operating and capital improvement budget. The governor’s office did not provide a detailed list of what particular items were being considered. However, he wrote that federal funding and lower revenue projections for the state were the main reasons driving his decision.

South Maui to receive $3.2 million to help control deer The Maui News Gary Kubota February 17, 2025 Original Article Gov. Josh Green has released $3.2 million in capital improvements to design and construct more fencing along the slopes of South Maui to control the overpopulation of axis deer. State Sen. Angus McKelvey said the funding is a powerful demonstration of responsiveness and commitment to safeguarding the land and future of South Maui. The overpopulation of deer was cited as one of the reasons South Maui saw increased flooding in recent months. “This moment sends a strong message to the people of South Maui that the governor and his administration understands the urgency and are committed to expediting the resources needed to tackle the flooding crisis from mauka to makai,” McKelvey said. He said that the unchecked spread of axis deer has led to severe agricultural losses and increased the risk of flooding due to overgrazing, which weakens soil stability. The lawmaker who represents South Maui and West Maui explained that the fencing initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance conservation efforts and long-term sustainability in the region. According to McKelvey, the funding was secured through the combined efforts of a number of legislators including Reps. Terez Amato and Kyle Yamashita and state Sens. Lynn DeCoite and Donovan M. Dela Cruz. In the past, fencing has been put in downslope of Haleakala as well as horizontally to limit the deer migration and make it easier to cull their numbers. Maui ranchers and farmers say the deer population has caused losses in crops and a lack of forage in unfenced lands amounting to millions of dollars. Some Kula farmers say deer continue to appear in large numbers near the Naalae Road area and often graze around the Kula Hospital. Upcountry Farmers Market owner Neal Coshever said he’s continuing to see large numbers of deer while driving on Calasa Road, including the park below the Kula Fire Station. “I haven’t seen a significant amount of reduction,” Coshever said. A state program offers a dollar amount for each deer killed and has helped ranchers and farmers to reduce the deer numbers and provide some money for fence repairs and the installation of deer fencing. The state Division of Forestry and Wildlife said in November that the deer population on Maui was estimated at 34,000, significantly less than their numbers were years ago. Axis deer were brought to the Hawaiian Islands from India in late 1867 as a gift to King Kamehameha V and released on Maui in 1959.

Honolulu launches $5M grant program to support low-income rental housing Star Advertiser Ian Bauer February 7, 2025 Original Article Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s administration is offering $5 million in grant funding to stoke the creation of more low- income rental housing on Oahu. Currently, the city Department of Land Management is soliciting proposals from nonprofit entities and public agencies for funding opportunities through the Affordable Housing Fund, or AHF, which typically provides funding to develop and expand affordable rental housing for households earning 60% or less of area median income. The fund also comes with the requirement that funded housing remain affordable for at least 60 years. But in this solicitation, the city is prioritizing projects that serve extremely low-income households — or 30% AMI and below, including those experiencing homelessness — in which a person earns $29,250 a year or a family of four receives $41,750 annually, according to the state Housing Community Development Authority. “This funding opportunity is a key part of the city’s broader strategy to increase the supply of affordable housing, particularly for those in urgent need, including individuals transitioning out of homelessness,” Kevin Auger, executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Housing, said in a statement. In a statement, Catherine Taschner, DLM’s director designate, said the program encourages “organizations to bring forward projects that will have a lasting impact.” “By prioritizing projects that serve extremely low- income households, this initiative underscores our commitment to tackling homelessness and expanding affordable housing opportunities,” she said. The funding cap is $55,000 per unit, meaning the program could support at least 90 units at full funding, according to city officials. They add that the actual unit production will depend on project scope, land acquisition costs and whether funds are used for new construction or rehabilitation. City officials say they won’t know the number of affected units until the completion of the competitive selection process. And while 90 units is the estimated baseline, the final number could be higher depending on how efficiently funds are allocated and whether projects secure additional financing. The proposal submission deadline is scheduled for 3 p.m. March 18. Meantime, the city is also seeking developers willing to build or redevelop four new affordable housing projects on city-owned parcels in urban Honolulu. The properties in question include: >> 1615 Ala Wai Blvd. >> 436 Ena Road. >> 130 S. Beretania St. >> 1421 Pensacola St. Under this program, selected developers will enter into a 75-year ground lease with the city and will be responsible for designing, financing, constructing and operating affordable rental housing on these sites. DLM recently issued a “request for qualifications” to redevelop the four underutilized sites, the city said. The deadline to submit is 1 p.m. March 21. Both of these efforts correspond with the Blangiardi administration’s unveiling earlier this week of its new plan to expand construction of more housing across Oahu. Coinciding with the mayor’s second four-year term, the city’s Office of Housing released its 2025-2028 Strategic Housing Plan, which aims to partner with developers to “activate underutilized” city-owned lands on the island and involve using new types of “financing strategies” to build more housing on the island. The plan, which does not offer an overall number of new housing units the city expects to develop on the island, will supposedly lay the groundwork for such development in the coming years — or at least as long as the Blangiardi administration remains in office. The mayor’s second and final term ends in 2028. During a news conference held Wednesday at the Mayor’s office, a few “special guests” — namely, representatives from large developer firms including Kobayashi Group LLC, Stanford Carr Development LLC and Castle &Cooke Hawaii, among others — appeared. Peter Savio, a longtime real estate developer in Hawaii and president and CEO of the Savio Group of Companies, did not appear at the mayor’s news conference. But afterward, Savio told the Honolulu Star- Advertiser that the city’s approach to building more affordable housing on Oahu misunderstands the real issue at play. “We do not have a supply problem; we have a demand problem,” he said. “As we build affordable units and sales restrictions expire, they get resold at market and become unaffordable.” And most so-called affordable housing units are “unaffordable based on local wages,” he said. “Real estate markets are local in nature, and slow for the building and sale of homes in a community,” he added. “This means homes are sold tied to the income of buyers and sellers in that community.” Savio said if applied to housing in Hawaii, and tied to average wages, a three-bedroom, two-bath fee-simple home should sell for about $450,000. Instead, that home sells for more than $1 million, he noted. “‘Affordable’ projects have studios at $250,000 (and) one-bedrooms at $400,000. They are lower than market prices but still unaffordable,” said Savio. “Outside demand has pushed our market above the local sale price by over $700,000.” “Our wages do not allow us to compete for home purchases. We are priced out of our market because of our demand,” he said. “If demand is the problem, building more supply simply attracts wealthy mainland and foreign buyers.” “If demand is the issue, building more is the worst thing the government can do,” he added. To solve the problem, Savio claimed the government must establish a program to keep housing affordable in perpetuity. “This can be done by creating an affordable local market where homes are sold in a controlled market, where price is determined by increase in wages,” he said. “Wages go up 20% over 10 years, the price goes up 20%.” “All we have done is create a local market for local wage earners, which is what our market would be without the distortion of outside buyers,” he said. To that end, Savio said he supports new state-level legislation introduced by Sens. Les Ihara Jr. and Carol Fukunaga. He said the measures — Senate Bills 1632 and 379, respectively — are meant to establish “a local market” for housing as well as keep so-called affordable housing “affordable forever.” “That’s the real story,” he added. “We have a solution and it will work.” Meanwhile, according to the city and the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, or UHERO, the median sales price of a single-family home exceeds $1.1 million, and median rents approach $2,000. In the Honolulu metro area alone, there are nearly 20,000 cost-restricted units, while West Oahu contains approximately 9,000 units, UHERO says. According to the Hawaii Housing Factbook, 58% of Oahu renters are rent-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing. In comparison, 29% are severely rent-burdened, allocating over half their income to rent, the housing report says.

REMINDER: Community invited to wildfire preparedness and mitigation town hall Kauai Now October 15, 2025 Original Article Kauaʻi’s delegation of state lawmakers and other Hawaiʻi and local officials are hosting a Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation Town Hall from 5:30 to 7 p.m. today. The town hall will be conducted at Kauaʻi Philippine Cultural Center AND FEATURE: Hawaiʻi Senate President Ronald Kouchi. Hawaiʻi Speaker of the House Nadine Nakamura. Hawaiʻi House Majority Leader Dee Morikawa. Hawaiʻi House Committee on Housing Chairman Luke Evslin. Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization Co-Executive Director Elizabeth Pickett. Hawaiʻi State Fire Marshal Dorothy Booth. Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency Administrator Elton Ushio. Kauaʻi Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson. Garden Island residents are invited to join the discussion, during which OFFICIALS WILL TALK ABOUT: New state legislation and funding. Insights from the deadly 2023 wildfire in Lahaina, Maui, and the July 2024 Kaumakani wildfire that burned more than 1.5 square miles of land on Kauaʻi. Steps residents and landowners can take together to strengthen Kauaʻi’s resilience. The evening will feature a presentation followed by a question-and-answer session with the expert panel. Kauaʻi Philippine Cultural Center is located at 4475-F Nūhou St. in Līhuʻe. The town hall is in partnership with Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency and Kauaʻi Fire Department.

Decisions await for awarding $50M to Hawaii nonprofits impacted by federal cuts Star Advertiser Andrew Gomes November 1, 2025 Original Article More than 200 Hawaii nonprofits seeking $143 million are competing for $50 million in state emergency grant funding to offset impacts of federal cuts by the Trump Administration. Representatives for nearly 150 of the applicants on Thursday made 60-second pitches to a special committee of four members of Hawaii’s Legislature who will divvy up the appropriation among many of the 213 nonprofits seeking financial assistance often described as dire. “Our food lines are long, and our phones are ringing nonstop,” Lisa Paulson, CEO of Maui Food Bank, told the panel of decision-makers. Most applicants have missions to provide food, health care, housing and education, but also included some organizations focused on work in areas including the arts, public broadcasting, the environment and other things. Maui Food Bank is asking for $895,288 to offset the loss of 537,604 pounds of food assistance this year and next year canceled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, according to Paulson, who equated the loss to about 380,000 meals for an organization that distributes about 7 million pounds of food annually. To be eligible for the special grants, nonprofits must provide documentation that they lost federal funding, or that the work they do primarily serves a population that has been negatively affected by federal funding cuts. Because so many nonprofits applied, Thursday’s briefing for the committee held in the auditorium of the state Capitol provided each applicant one minute to make their case for funding and did not include any question-and-answer time. Rep. Daniel Holt, one of the evaluation committee members, encouraged presenters to focus on explaining the size and kind of federal funding cuts they face so the panel can figure out which holes in Hawaii’s safety net to plug. “If we can just get straight to it — just your organization’s name and right to how the federal cuts have been affecting you — that would be great,” said Holt (D, Sand Island-Iwilei-Chinatown). Many applicants with indirect connections to federal funding cuts, or those anticipating cuts, tried their best to convince committee members that they deserve a share of the appropriation, which grew out of a blank bill in February and became Act 310 with Gov. Josh Green’s approval in July. For instance, the Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hilo is seeking $400,000 to counteract what museum representative Melanie Ide characterized as the collapse of federal tsunami infrastructure that she said includes cuts to Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster preparedness grants and staff cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. For many health care providers, planned federal changes to Medicaid are expected to result in service cost reimbursement declines if more patients lose such insurance coverage. Michael Epp, collaborative projects coordinator for community health center Kokua Kalihi Valley, which is seeking $2.5 million, told the committee that an estimated 20% of the organization’s 9,500 active patients may lose Medicaid that results in a $2.5 million revenue decline. “The impact will be felt acutely in Kalihi where many of our residents are immigrants, COFA migrants and low-income public housing residents,” he said. According to an Oct. 2 analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization and the Hawaii Community Foundation, $126 million in unpaid balances on 74 federal grants to 59 Hawaii nonprofits were considered “politically vulnerable” to loss. One of the single-biggest grant applications was a request for $6 million submitted by AlohaCare, Hawaii’s second-largest Medicaid plan that covers about 70,000 people and was created in part by community health centers. Mike Nguyen, the organization’s public policy director, told the committee that Hawaii organizations are having to shoulder fallout from federal policy changes to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act along with an ongoing federal government shutdown slated to halt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits helping the needy buy food. Nonprofits with direct funding cuts include The Kohala Center, which in part provides assistance for food producers and lost $1.4 million in USDA funding. The center, which has a $3.5 million annual budget, is seeking $1 million. Dynamic Community Solutions, a nonprofit working to relocate about 200 homeless individuals living around Waianae Boat Harbor to a piece of land it owns, is seeking to replace a suspended $3.3 million U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant needed to provide off-grid power to the site and establish a containerized farm. Elia Herman, director of advocacy for Hawai‘i Foodbank, told the panel that the organization is seeking $5.6 million to purchase millions of pounds of food cut under USDA programs. “Kupuna alone lost nearly 104,000 meals due to cuts to our Senior Food Box Program,” she said. “Our priority is ensuring uninterrupted access to safe, nutritious food for those who rely on us, but we cannot do it alone.” Nonprofits had until Oct. 24 to apply, and decisions could be made fairly soon by the panel, whose other members are Rep. Jenna Takenouchi (D, Pacific Heights-Nuuanu-Liliha), Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz (D, Mililani-Wahiawa-Whitmore Village) and Sen. Dru Kanuha (D, Kona-Kau-Volcano). The committee, which is to review applications and can contact organizations with questions, tentatively plans to reconvene for another public meeting Nov. 20.

Hawaiian Electric sells 90.1% of American Savings Bank Spectrum News Michael Tsai January 3, 2025 Original Article Under pressure to secure its financial standing in the wake of the Maui wildfires, Hawaiian Electric Industries has completed a sale of 90.1% of its shares in American Savings Bank to independent investors. What You Need To Know HEI, which is responsible for roughly half of a $4 billion settlement with wildfire survivors, received $405 million in the transaction. None of the 24 investors, which includes the bank’s executive team and independent directors, owns more than 9.9% of ASG common stock. HEI also retained a 9.9% interest in the bank The transaction drew a favorable response from state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Affairs HEI is proposing a $1 billion dollar fund, created by a $4 per month additional charge to its customers, to cover claims related to future natural disasters. HEI, which is responsible for roughly half of a $4 billion settlement with wildfire survivors, received $405 million in the transaction. HEI has already contributed $75 million to the One Ohana Initiative in partial fulfillment of its settlement obligation. “The sale allows HEI to enhance our focus on the utility as we work to help our state recover from the 2023 Maui wildfires and strengthen the financial and strategic position of our company,” HEI president and CEO Scott Seu said in a statement released on Tuesday. None of the 24 investors, which includes the bank’s executive team and independent directors, owns more than 9.9% of ASG common stock. HEI also retained a 9.9% interest in the bank. The transaction drew a favorable response from state Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole, chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Affairs. “The sale of ASB is a significant step by HEI to show that the company and their shareholders are taking responsibility for their financial situation in the wake of the Maui wildfires,” Keohokalole said in a statement released on Tuesday. “This, combined with their stock sale in September 2024, demonstrates that HEI is taking the concerns of the Legislature and rate payers seriously.” The utility previously sought approval to raise rates to help cover the cost of the settlement. The proposal was supported by Gov. Josh Green, who said it would help prevent large rate increases in the future. However, Keohokalole and other legislators resisted giving the utility what they considered a blank check without a clear plan in place for stabilizing its financial condition. HEI is now proposing a $1 billion dollar fund, created by a $4 per month additional charge to its customers, to cover claims related to future natural disasters. “Our concern last session was adding to the cost of ratepayers’ electrical bills without assurances that Hawaiian Electric’s stockholders were doing their part to absorb the costs,” Keohokalole said. “Today’s announcement appears to validate those concerns. It is especially encouraging to hear that the sale is structured to keep local jobs and operations of a local bank in local hands.” Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com .

Disney's live-action Lilo & Stitch premieres Considerable Joe Sanders May 19, 2025 Original Article The world premiere of Disney’s live-action “Lilo & Stitch” took place Saturday at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California. The event celebrated the film’s debut and showcased Hawaiian culture, courtesy of the Hawai’i Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB). The premiere featured numerous stars from the film, including Chris Sanders, Billy Magnussen, Zach Galifianakis, Maia Kealoha, Sydney Agudong, Courtney B. Vance, Kaipo Dudoit, and Amy Hill. Several dignitaries and cultural figures, such as State Rep. Shirley Ann Templo, State Sen.Lynn DeCoite, and Miss Aloha Hula 2025, Jaedyn Pavao, attended the event. Maia Kealoha, who starred as Lilo, and Sydney Agudong, who played Lilo’s older sister Nani, were among the Hawaiian talents featured in this adaptation. Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original animated film, took on the role of Mrs. Kekoa, a new character. The depiction of Hawaiian culture was further enriched with traditional Hawaiian protocols led by kumu hula Lilinoe Kaio, with performances from Halau ‘o Lilinoe and Na Pua Me Kealoha. Aaron J. Sala, President and CEO of HVCB, underscored the importance of the event. Celebrating Disney’s Hawaiian heritage “This premiere wasn’t just a celebration of a film — it was an opportunity to elevate the people, culture, and stories that define our Hawaii,” Sala stated. The collaboration with Disney marks HVCB’s commitment to diversifying its promotional efforts beyond conventional tourism marketing. HVCB is in the midst of significant organizational changes. Under Sala’s leadership since September, the bureau has been diversifying its portfolio in response to dwindling funding from the Hawai’i Tourism Authority (HTA). The new direction aligns with a broader strategic plan to reduce reliance on HTA contracts and engage in partnerships that responsibly promote Hawaiian culture and tourism, the presence of lawmakers like Sen. Lynn DeCoite and Rep. Shirley Ann Templo at the premiere highlighted the state’s stance on using cinema and media to boost tourism. This diversification aims to ensure a sustainable future for Hawaii’s tourism industry while respecting and promoting local culture. Hawaiian Airlines also contributed to the event by offering guests leis and photo opportunities. The airline’s new “Searching for Stitch” augmented reality experience aims to educate users about mindful travel across the Hawaiian Islands. Jerry Gibson, President of the Hawai’i Hotel Alliance, and Keith Vieira, principal of KV & Associates, expressed optimism about HVCB’s new strategic direction. They believe this initiative will help sustain Hawaii’s tourism industry amid changing economic and political landscapes. As “Lilo & Stitch” opens nationwide, the film serves as both an entertainment piece and a cultural bridge, inviting audiences worldwide to engage more thoughtfully with Hawaii’s rich heritage.

Gov. Green signs bills to tackle housing bottlenecks, fund nonprofits Maui Now July 10, 2025 Original Article Gov. Josh Green, M.D., concluded the bill signing season by holding the final two bill signing ceremonies on Wednesday, which highlighted measures focused on addressing some of Hawaiʻi’s most pervasive challenges. The newly enacted laws focus on providing effective remediation for claims of construction defects and delivering essential funding to support critical nonprofit organizations impacted by federal funding reductions. “Today represents the full scope of what policymaking is all about,” said Green. “Sometimes, it takes many sessions to pass legislation and show foresight for long-term change. Other times, it is about the flexibility to pivot quickly when urgent challenges arise. Signing these two bills reflect both ends of that spectrum and truly demonstrates the best of what this bill signing period stands for.” HB 420: Relating to remedies: A recent UHERO report indicates a surge in litigation related to construction defect claims, which has resulted in costly and time-consuming delays of housing projects across the state. These delays, in turn, leave many awaiting construction in limbo and drive up the cost of housing, all of which have major implications throughout the state’s housing pipeline. House Bill 420 (Act 308) amends the Contractor Repair Act and Statute of Repose to address the exploitative litigation practices currently hindering Hawai‘i’s housing market. “This bill is a couple years in the making, and today’s signing marks a step toward removing roadblocks for affordable, accessible housing in Hawai‘i,” said Green. “HB 420 is a solution-based measure that tackles one of many contributing factors to our rising cost of living in the islands. It supports a broad range of stakeholders across the housing market, helping to move projects forward and bring real relief to our communities.” HB 420 aims to streamline and improve the efficiency of the Hawai‘i Contractor Repair Act for its proper utilization in lieu of litigation. Amendments to the act provide defined timelines and processes related to the notice of claims between claimants and contractors, including the acceptance or rejection of contractor’s offer of settlement or authorized repair. To support prompt repair and remediation, the measure establishes standardized requirements that must be included in a construction of defect claim to ensure contractors are given sufficient evidence to address the matter. The bill further establishes clear timelines regarding inspections, testing, and mediation to provide homeowners and contractors with a comprehensive roadmap for remedies. Together with these procedural improvements, Gov. Green said the bill includes provision to deter unnecessary litigation through clarifying the statute of repose and limitation periods. HB 420 clarifies the applicability of the 10-year statute of repose, which applies to all actions, including contracts, torts or statutory claims. Pre-filing of a lawsuit is not to occur more than six months before the litigation or repose period ends. “HB 420 is a meaningful step forward for Hawai‘i’s communities because it helps with the process of getting homes repaired and built faster, without getting caught up in long, costly lawsuits,” said Sen. Jarrett Keohokālole (Senate District 24 – Kāne‘ohe, Kailua), who chairs the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. “By encouraging builders and homeowners to work together early on, this law protects families from unnecessary delays and high costs, helping to make housing more affordable and accessible for everyone across the islands.” “HB 420 is about restoring balance and fairness to the construction defect process,” said Rep. Lisa Marten. “For too long, certain legal strategies have delayed critical repairs and driven up costs. This bill strengthens protections for both homeowners and builders by requiring a good-faith opportunity to inspect and repair before litigation begins. It’s a practical fix that helps move housing projects forward and ensures we’re not putting unnecessary barriers in the way of affordable housing in Hawai‘i.” “We sincerely thank Governor Josh Green for signing HB 420 into law. This legislation brings critical reform to the Contractor Repair Act by prioritizing cooperation and timely resolution over costly and prolonged litigation,” said D.R. Horton Hawai‘i Division President Tracy Tonaki on behalf of Housing No Kākou. “HB 420 strengthens consumer protections by prioritizing cooperation before litigation so that we can collectively preserve access to essential government backed loan programs, ensure legitimate repairs are made in a timely manner and continue to build much needed housing for Hawai‘i’s families.” SB 933: Relating to the state budget: Senate Bill 933 (Act 310) serves as a targeted measure to support Hawai‘i’s nonprofit sector. Due to the federal funding freeze, many valuable nonprofits that provide essential community services, including child care, housing services, and healthcare, will be adversely affected and face significant reductions in funding. To help offset these losses, SB 933 appropriates $50 million for fiscal year 2026 to fund grants-in-aid for non-profit organizations across Hawai‘i. The Office of Community Services, within the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, will oversee the selection and distribution of these grant awards. “It is not fair that organizations dedicated to supporting the people of Hawai‘i are being forced to scale back due to federal funding cuts,” said Green. “This state funding is a critical lifeline — not just for the nonprofits themselves, but for the individuals and families who depend on the essential services they provide everyday. We are stepping in to ensure our communities do not lose access to the care and support they need.” A selection committee will be established to evaluate applications from non-profit organizations that demonstrate a termination or reduction of funding, or whose beneficiaries have been adversely impacted by the changes in federal funding. To carry out the provision of the bill and to assist with the distribution of grants, the measure establishes temporary full-time positions within the Office of Community Services. Through this measure, the Office of Community Service authorizes the to contract the services of Aloha United Way, Inc. to provide administrative support and assist in the distribution of grant awards. “This investment is more than just funding—it’s a vote of confidence in Hawai‘i’s nonprofit sector” said Michelle Bartell, President & CEO, Aloha United Way. “We’re grateful to the State Legislature for acting swiftly and to HANO for their tireless advocacy. Together, we’re helping ensure essential services remain strong and responsive for those who rely on them every day.” “Senate Bill 933 is a timely and targeted response to protect the nonprofits that form the backbone of our communities,” said Sen. Troy Hashimoto (Senate District 5 – Wailuku, Kahului, Waihe‘e, Waikapu Mauka, Wai‘ehu). “As federal funding declines, it’s our responsibility to make sure that vital services like childcare, housing and healthcare continue to be accessible to those who need them the most. This law helps keep critical support systems intact for Hawai‘i’s families.” “We recognize the vital role that nonprofit organizations play in the health and resilience of our communities in Hawai‘i,” said Rep. Daniel Holt. “SB 933 responds to an urgent need, ensuring essential services like childcare, housing, and healthcare remain accessible despite federal funding cuts. This measure reflects our collective commitment to mālama our communities and support those who serve them every day.” The complete list of bills signed include the following. Click the link to see full details of the bill enacted into law. HB 431 (ACT 309) Relating to Housing