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Marine Corps to deactivate Hawai‘i battalion after 80 years of service
After 80 years of service, the Marine Corps will deactivate the Hawai‘i-based Island Warriors of the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment that fought in Bougainville, Guam, the Republic of Vietnam, Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan. KHON2.

Hawai‘i public-school student absences up dramatically in latest Covid-19 surge, report finds
A new report shows for the first time the dramatic rise in student absences at Hawai‘i public schools during the surge of the Covid-19 omicron variant, with many schools reporting absentee rates two to four times higher than pre-pandemic levels. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

DOE: Nearly 3,400 Covid cases reported among students, staff amid Omicron surge. Hawaii News Now.

Retention rate of Hawai‘i public school teachers after 5 years of employment just over 50%
The retention rate of Hawai‘i public school teachers after five years of employment stubbornly hovered at just over 50% last school year despite multiple state efforts, including an incentive program for teachers in hard-to-retain categories that has cost $34.5 million so far. Star-Advertiser.

Advisory panel formed to help find next DOE superintendent
As the search continues for the permanent head of Hawai‘i’s public schools, an advisory group is now in place to help with the selection process. The panel includes public school teachers, a parent and other community and education leaders, including UH President David Lassner. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i Senate bill would hike minimum wage to $12 an hour on Oct. 1
The state Senate has introduced its version of a bill to raise Hawai‘i’s $10.10 an hour minimum wage — starting with an initial jump to $12 per hour starting Oct. 1. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

UH is considering a Covid booster shot mandate
The university’s president, David Lassner, said the move would be in line with current discussions at the state and county level. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA will provide Hawaiʻi with $48M to pay for 1,000 temporary medical staff
The advance funding represents half of the $95.8 million sought by the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health at the request of the Healthcare Association of Hawaiʻi, the state said in a news release. Hawaii Public Radio.

Federal prosecutors who led corruption probe into Kealohas make it clear they’re not finished
A week after three ex-city executives were arrested by the FBI for conspiracy, agents and the special prosecutor investigating public corruption in Honolulu were back before a federal grand jury. Hawaii News Now.

Changes to fares for TheBus, TheHandi-Van up for public input
Seven proposals are being considered by the Honolulu Rate Commission. One of them would introduce residency requirements for someone to be eligible for discounted fares. Another would allow free transfers between TheHandi-Van and TheBus. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

City lawyers’ ouster from Iremamber Sykap case sought
Attorneys representing the family of a 16-year-old boy who was shot and killed by Honolulu police following an alleged crime spree and car chase are seeking to disqualify the city Department of the Corporation Counsel from defending both the officers and the city against civil accusations of negligence and wrongful death. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i homeowners to get $50 million in federal relief funds
On Friday, O‘ahu homeowners have an opportunity to apply for up to $30,000 for each household through the first mortgage relief program on Hawai‘i’s most populous island. Relief funds can go toward mortgage coverage, property taxes, utility payments, homeowners association fees and other expenses. Civil Beat.

7 public schools still can’t use tap water as contamination crisis drags on
Nearly two months after tests revealed tainted water coming from the faucets at more than a half dozen public schools, health officials say it’s still not safe to use the tap. Hawaii News Now.

Cultural practitioners working in the tourism industry see their roles as integral to ensuring Hawaiian culture is perpetuated accurately and that visitors treat the Islands respectfully. But some practitioners say Hawaiian culture is still undervalued… read more.

Request to change land use classification for site of proposed affordable housing project moves forward
The Hawai’i County Council on Wednesday approved the first reading of a land-use amendment request so an affordable housing project in Hilo can move forward. Bill 101 would amend the county’s state land-use boundary maps to change the classification of a vacant 9.09-acre parcel on the north side of Mohouli Street in Hilo, just west of the intersection with Komohana Street, from agricultural to urban. Big Island Now.

Maui Police 25% short staffed: 21 resignations, 13 retirements in 2021
The Maui Police Department is more than 25% short staffed with 145 vacancies department wide. According to department reports, there are 101 sworn vacancies, which is at 75% staffing; and 44 civilian vacancies for 70% staffing in that portion of the department. Maui Now.

Plan seeks more natural solutions to flood risks
Reduced wetland areas due to development in South Maui, drought and degraded watersheds and intense storms are creating a “formula for disaster” and leading to “mud floods” that pollute the ocean as they did in a recent storm, a local water quality expert said. Maui News.

State leaders disagree on who should spearhead Maui County’s axis deer problems
State Sen. Lynn DeCoite says that while she believes in a multi-pronged approach that includes government and community, the Department of Land and Natural Resources should be leading the effort. Hawaii Public Radio.