West Hawai‘i News
Bill to Assess Fees on Cesspools, Septic Tanks Deferred
The measure would have had a particularly strong impact on the Big Island where many residents rely on individual sewer systems.
Kona Condo Damaged by Fire Early Today
Firefighters said their efforts were complicated by a layer of metal roofing laid over wood shingles.
Police Reminding Public to Yield to Emergency Vehicles
State law requires motorists to pull over to the nearest edge of the roadway to make way for ambulances and other emergency vehicles.
Bill to Raise Tax on Bulk Tobacco Deferred
The measure would have raised the state excise tax on tobacco products to a rate similar to that imposed on cigarettes
NARS Commission to Gain Hawaiian Cultural Expert
Supporters say the addition will help ensure that the panel that oversees the state’s Natural Area Reserve System considers native Hawaiian concerns.
Police Release April 4 List of Arrest Warrants
The Hawaii Police Department has released its weekly list of some of the individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Police Seeking Pahoa Teen Missing Since March 19
The missing 17-year-old girl is of Hawaiian descent.
Marijuana Decriminalization Bill Falters in House
A prominent lawmaker said the bill lacked sufficient support despite passing the Senate and four votes in the House.
Solomon Considering Legal Action Following Threatening Email
The Big Island legislator has consulted police and the state attorney general on the matter, and may seek a restraining order against the email’s author.
State Begins Charging Tourists Parking Fees at Hapuna
The fees, which are not assessed against Hawaii residents, are $5 per vehicle and up to $40 for commercial tour buses.
Police Renew Request for Help Finding Missing Japanese Tourist
The man’s car was found unlocked in mid-February near the lava-viewing area in Kalapana.
Civil Defense Sirens Malfunction, No Emergency Exists
The sirens sounded inadvertently in many areas of the Big Island while crews were performing a system check.
HOVE Well is Down, Public Asked to Conserve Water
The public is being asked to restrict consumption to potable uses, and commercial water haulers must use alternate sources until repairs are completed.
Abercrombie Renominates De Lima to Board of Education
The new term for the Hilo attorney, who has served as the Big Island representative on the board since 2011, would end on June 30, 2016.
Employees Choose Design of Police Department Flag
The flag will debut in Saturday’s Merrie Monarch Parade and will be flown at department ceremonies and community events.
UPDATE: Senate Amends PLDC Bill, Now Similar to House Version
House Bill 1133, which was heard by the Committee on Ways and Means, appears to be the only PLDC-killing bill still active in the Legislature.
Search For Water in Saddle Region Begins
Scientists are drilling deep into the island between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to look for water and answers.
April Fool’s Day Prank Goes Awry
A report by a radio station about a lava flow closing Saddle Road generated calls to 911, police said.
