AGP Executive Report

Legal & Housing: An 83-year-old Honolulu retiree, Sandra May, is suing the city after a rental-website glitch allegedly triggered $10,000-a-day fines, nearly $600,000 total, over short-term advertising rules outside resort zones. Weather & Safety: The National Weather Service warns of minor coastal flooding during high tides through Tuesday, June 16, with advice to avoid flooded roads and move valuables/gear higher. Tourism Funding: Hawai‘i County opened applications for its 2026-27 Impact Grant Program, with $450,000 available for nonprofit projects including regenerative tourism. Community & Culture: Kahana Canoe Club marks 50 years ahead of the Nāleiʻehā Regatta Saturday at Hanakaʻōʻō Beach Park in Lahaina. Marine Life & Diving: Hawaii Marine Animal Response marks 10 years of rescues and education; meanwhile, a recent O‘ahu scuba death is prompting renewed dive-safety reminders. Local Travel Disruption: Police stepped up enforcement on Big Island’s DKI Highway after multiple fatalities, issuing hundreds of citations during early June operations.

Tourism & Cruise Watch: Hawaiʻi’s cruise industry is forecast to stay strong in 2026, but local leaders are watching how port changes and possible new “Green Fee” rules could affect ship calls at Honolulu Harbor. Safety for Visitors: A recent Oʻahu scuba death is renewing calls for dive training, fitness, and honest self-checks before going underwater. Wildlife & Beach Life: Hawaii Marine Animal Response marked 10 years of rescues, with monk seals, sea turtles, and seabirds helped by volunteers and public hotline reports; Waikīkī Elementary students also named Kaiwi’s new pup “ʻAnela ʻAuinala.” Local Crime & Community Impact: Maui police arrested a suspect in a Hoʻokipa Beach carjacking; another Maui man was arrested then released after a hammer attack outside a bar. Nature Protection: Kauaʻi foresters deployed a beetle repellent tool to slow Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death spread in Kōkeʻe. Travel Costs: AAA Hawaiʻi reports gas prices edging down week over week, but still well above last year—important for summer road-trip planning. Family Travel Spotlight: Make-A-Wish sent a Jonesboro teen with a blood disorder to Hawaiʻi for a week of beach time and activities.

Wildlife & Beach Safety: Crews are preparing to relocate the Waikīkī monk seal pup at Kaimana Beach after weaning, moving it to a more remote Oʻahu shoreline to reduce risky crowd interactions. Gas Prices & Travel Costs: AAA reports gas prices falling for a third straight week, with the national average down to about $4.13 and Hawaii still among the higher-priced states. Pride Through Hawaiian Culture: A Pride Month feature spotlights the Native Hawaiian concept of Māhū, tying it to long-standing roles of respect, teaching, and healing. Tourism Disruption Watch: Japan Airlines faced scrutiny after two cabin attendants drank before a flight, delaying service—another reminder to travelers to expect occasional travel hiccups. Marine Debris Warning: A sperm whale necropsy in Hawaiʻi found fishing nets and household plastics in its stomach, underscoring the ocean trash problem. Community & Malama ‘Āina: Kona hosted a beach cleanup scavenger hunt, collecting litter and marine debris with local police and youth groups. Road Safety: Police increased enforcement on Big Island’s DKI Highway after multiple recent fatalities, issuing hundreds of citations in early operations.

Monk Seal Watch: NOAA says Waikiki’s newest monk seal pup will be relocated to a quieter spot once it’s weaned, to reduce risky human-seal interactions. Ocean Safety: An off-duty Honolulu Ocean Safety lifeguard rescued a distressed surfer at China Walls as king tides approach, urging extra vigilance this weekend. Travel Disruption & Rentals: A Massachusetts family says severe weather in Hawaii left them out $12,000 after canceling a Vrbo trip, arguing the host didn’t honor an “extenuating circumstances” state-emergency scenario. Local Crime: Maui police are searching for an armed robbery suspect after a violent Hana Highway carjacking; victims were treated and released. Camping Update: Tent camping is back at Nāmakanipaio in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park after storm cleanup from fallen eucalyptus trees. Road Safety: A helmetless motorcyclist died after being ejected in a Makawao crash; police are still checking speed, drugs, or alcohol. Culture & Calendar: Honolulu’s 43rd Pan-Pacific Festival runs June 12–14 with hula, dance, and a parade. Tourism Economy: Hawaii restaurants report they still need teen workers despite a slower summer hiring season nationwide.

Gas Relief Watch: Hawaii Gov. Josh Green is considering pausing state and county gas taxes for part of the summer after pump prices surged, aiming for about 30 cents-a-gallon relief while noting the tax revenue funds road and bridge upkeep. Tourism & Travel Tech: Southwest is partnering with Starlink to bring much faster in-flight internet, and Singapore Airlines is launching a new interline partnership with Southwest that lets travelers book one ticket across both networks (with loyalty points limitations). Hawaii Visitor Experience: Maui Coast Hotel in Kihei is offering a “hospitality suite” so guests can freshen up and enjoy more beach time before leaving, addressing the common late checkout/overnight flight squeeze. Cruise Disruption: Holland America’s Zaandam is delayed from Vancouver due to a propulsion issue, with itinerary changes and updated ports for affected Alaska sailings. Weather & Ocean: El Niño has officially begun and is forecast to intensify into a very strong “Super” event, with major global weather impacts likely. Local Culture: Hawaii marks King Kamehameha Day (June 11) with community events in Hilo and North Kohala.

Maui Crime & Safety: Maui Police are searching for suspects after an armed Ho’okipa Beach-area carjacking on Hāna Highway left a Haʻikū couple injured and their vehicle stolen; tracking led officers to abandoned cars, but the suspects fled into brush and pastureland. Oʻahu Visitor Safety: A Florida visitor is urging hikers to be careful after a Manoa Falls trip ended with a friend’s fractured ankle and wrist, with officials reminding people that “everything’s easy until it’s not,” especially when trails are muddy. Ocean & Beach Alerts: Lifeguards warned swimmers to stay out at Electric Beach/Kahe Point after a 6–7 foot shark was spotted near the power plant flumes, even though it was labeled non-aggressive. Tourism & Culture: Cirque du Soleil’s ʻAuana released “Kele ka Moana,” a new single in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi ahead of the full soundtrack, spotlighting Hawaiian language and storytelling. Local Community Pride: Honolulu is rolling out new Adopt a Park signs recognizing volunteers and adding bright orange sticker-control signage at key spots like Kuilei Cliffs and Koko Crater. New Stays for Travelers: Hilton Honors members can book a new Kauaʻi Curio Collection property—Hale Hōkūala Kaua‘i—opening Oct. 1 above Kalapaki Beach. Weekend What to Do (Oʻahu): June 12–14 brings Ko’olau Night Market, Festival Street Eats, Honolulu Harbor Nights, and the Kaka’ako Farmers Market.

Wildlife & Courts: A federal judge set a November timeline for a Maui man accused of throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal, with the case tied to a May 5 Lahaina incident that went viral online. Hotel Updates: Hilton Hawaiian Village says its Rainbow Tower renovation is complete, with refreshed rooms and locally inspired design ready for summer travelers. Tourism Policy: A Honolulu letter urges Gov. Josh Green to veto green-fee spending that critics say is being diverted from environmental projects. Outdoor & Trails: Hawaii County Council member Heather Kimball floated a Hamakua Heritage Trail concept linking historical communities from Hilo to Waipio, with a feasibility study in the works. Community & Culture: Jodo Mission launched a GoFundMe to restore a vandalized Jizo statue after the June 2 attack knocked off the head and toppled parts of the monument. Safety & Travel: Waikiki guests reported an early-morning explosion at the Wayfinder Hotel; officials say a worker was mixing chemicals in a pump room when the blast happened, sending him to the hospital and triggering a hazmat response.

Maui Wildlife Court Update: A man accused of throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal on Maui will face trial in November, with Igor Lytvynchuk set for a Nov. 16, 2026 start after pleading not guilty under federal endangered-species and marine-mammal laws. Waikiki Hotel Incident: Guests at the Wayfinder Waikiki reported an early-morning explosion; officials say a worker was mixing chemicals in a pump room, leaving him seriously injured, while hazmat crews evacuated and later cleared the area. Kauaʻi Safety Order Details: A newly filed TRO petition describes alleged dangerous conditions involving Kauaʻi murder suspect William “Billy” Sinclair, including claims of domestic violence, harassment, and drug activity, as police continue their investigation. Tourism & Events Spotlight: Hawaii News Now reports major progress on the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, with the final “tripping” phase underway and sports tourism plans ahead. Local Food Business Boost: The Ulupono Fund is granting $25,000 to help Hawaiʻi food makers use Leeward Community College’s value-added product center and expand into major retail shelves. Travel Industry Watch: Hilton’s first Curio Collection hotel in Hawaiʻi—Hale Hokuala Kauai—now accepts reservations for stays starting Oct. 1, 2026.

Hawaiʻi Tourism & Travel: A new wave of visitor spending is reshaping the islands’ tourism mix, with coverage pointing to fewer visitors but higher per-person spend—plus a reminder that local travel planning is getting more important as costs shift. Local Hospitality: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel marks its 60th birthday with a sweeping $240 million renovation, including refreshed suites, a new adult infinity pool, and upgrades to its spa, fitness, and golf course—aimed at elevating the guest experience without losing what people love. Interisland Supply Woes: Molokaʻi residents are dealing with empty shelves after Young Brothers missed multiple shipments, blaming weather and machinery, while locals question rising costs and what the company is doing with the extra money. Community & Family Fun: Hawaiʻi Police Activities League hosted its first annual keiki bowling event in Kona, pairing youth recreation with mentoring and positive connections with officers. Weather for Travelers: Trade winds ease through the week, but a larger south swell is expected late Saturday into Sunday, with potential dangerous surf and coastal impacts. Airfare Watch: Southwest is running a limited-time sale with up to 40% off base fares for late-summer and fall travel, using code FLYWOW.

Airline & Visitor Economy: Hawaiian Airlines is ending free economy meals on most U.S.-bound routes starting July 1, replacing them with a pre-order dining program for Main Cabin passengers. Hotel Updates: Hilton Hawaiian Village says its Rainbow Tower renovations are complete, with refreshed rooms and Hawaii-based art. Waikiki Independence Day: Waikiki’s July 4 fireworks are set for 8:30 p.m., free and open to the public. Local Travel Safety: A judge reduced bail for a Puna man charged in a fatal Pahoa-area crash; prosecutors allege DUI and a suspended license. Road & Construction Disruptions: Honolulu plans vehicular bridge restoration at Ala Wai Golf Course starting June 15, with weekday lane changes. Tourism Policy & Enforcement: Honolulu still hasn’t moved to court in an illegal short-term rental foreclosure case, with nearly $3M in fines uncollected a year later. Nature & Ocean Watch: Trade winds ease midweek with showers possible; a strong south-southwest swell is expected Saturday night into early next week, with higher surf risk. Wildlife & Beach Alerts: Experts warn El Niño could shift shark activity and bring different species closer to shore, though attacks remain rare. Community & Culture: Wahi Pana: Storied Places announces June events, including a long-lost mele returning to Lēʻahi after 131 years. Food Innovation: The 4th annual Hawaiʻi Made Conference (June 23) focuses on turning local food ideas into market-ready products. Space & Science Tourism Buzz: A new “Crystal Ball Nebula” image from Maunakea highlights the dying-star spectacle—another reason Hawaii remains a global science draw.

Road Safety & Community Action: Honolulu’s Zumbaathon for Azalia Park drew 150+ people to push safer driving and curb drunk driving, with Safe Ride Hawaiʻi offering rides to impaired drivers to prevent tragedies. Public Safety Alert (Kaua‘i): Kaua‘i Police continue a manhunt for “armed and dangerous” homicide suspect William “Billy” Sinclair near Kapa‘a Public Library; residents are urged to avoid the area and not approach him. Tourism & Access (Hawai‘i): A proposed Hamakua Coast trail would connect historical communities from Hilo to Waipio, with a feasibility study and community input planned. Local Governance (O‘ahu): Honolulu City Council’s FY2027 budget omits funding for the Makaiwa Hills landfill site, a win for West O‘ahu opponents. Travel & Aviation: Delta resumes daily L.A.–Hong Kong service, signaling slow recovery in China–U.S. air links; Air Canada adds Budapest–Toronto flights with connections that include Hawaii. Shark & Surf Safety: A Hawaii surfer suffered serious injuries after a shark bite off O‘ahu’s South Shore, underscoring ongoing ocean hazard warnings. Hawai‘i Tourism Shift: New reporting highlights fewer visitors but higher spending per trip, as Hawaii’s tourism mix continues to evolve.

Shark Safety & Surfing: A 38-year-old Oahu surfer, Koa Smith, was bitten by a shark off Cromwell’s Beach and suffered serious injuries to both legs, but he managed to paddle back and crawl for help; he remains hospitalized at Queen’s Medical Center. Maui Park Clarification: DLNR moved to calm concerns about Makena State Park upgrades, saying the proposal adds restrooms/showers and pavement plus staff infrastructure, with no changes to access or resident free parking. Kauai Manhunt: Kauai Police are still searching for armed and dangerous homicide suspect William “Billy” Sinclair, last seen near Kapa’a with a distinctive Harley and clothing; residents are urged not to approach and to call in tips. Honolulu Beach Violence: Police arrested a 64-year-old man after an alleged knife attack at Electric Beach in Nanakuli left two people injured; charges are pending. Tourism Numbers: Hawaii saw fewer visitors in April (about 829,000) but higher spending—$1.7 billion total—driven by increased per-person-per-day spend in lodging, dining, shopping and transportation. Travel Costs: Hawaiian Airlines CEO Diana Birkett Rakow warns summer fares may stay high as war-linked fuel and oil disruptions continue to pressure airline costs. On-Island Travel Disruptions: Hawaiian Electric will relocate 11 poles along Waiehu Beach Road June 15–July 4, requiring a partial lane closure and traffic control. Cruise Interest: A South Pacific food-focused cruise route highlights calls in Honolulu and Kauai/Kona, appealing to travelers planning longer, slower trips.

Maui Budget & Safety: Maui County Council approved a $1.6 billion fiscal 2027 budget, adding $50,000 for campus security after a terroristic threatening arrest at One Main Plaza in Wailuku. Tourism Pulse: DBEDT data shows April brought fewer visitors to Hawaiʻi (about 829,000) but higher spending—up nearly 5% statewide as per-person-per-day spend rose more than 14%. North Shore Access Hit: Waimea Valley attendance is down 25%–30% versus last year as Kona-low storm fallout and road contraflow/landslide work keep visitors away. Visitor Industry Training: Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response launched a Marine Stewards Program to teach hospitality and tour staff how to protect monk seals, turtles, and seabirds. Shark & Beach Alerts: Lifeguards issued a shark warning at Kahe Point (Electric Beach), and Hanauma Bay closed after a marine mammal death. Short-Term Rental Rules: Hawaiʻi County Windward Planning Commission deferred a bill over vacation rental changes, including stricter standards and enforcement. Air Travel & Alliances: Philippine Airlines is set to join oneworld, expanding global connectivity that includes Hawaiian Airlines/Alaska. Roadwork Watch: HIDOT posted updated Kauaʻi lane-closure schedules for the week ahead.

Tourism Economy: Hawaii welcomed nearly 829,000 visitors in April, down from last year, but spending rose to about $1.7 billion as per-person daily spend jumped more than 14%, with gains in shopping, lodging and dining. Marine Protection for Visitors: Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response launched its Hawaiʻi Marine Stewards Program to train hospitality and tourism workers to help guests safely share space with monk seals, turtles and seabirds. Endangered Whales Under Strain: A new study links nutritional stress and warming seas to major weight loss in Hawaiʻi’s endangered insular false killer whales, with fewer than 140 remaining. Beach Closures & Shark Alerts: Hanauma Bay closed after a marine mammal died and blood was found in the water; lifeguards also posted a shark warning at Kahe Point (Electric Beach). Local Safety & Crime: A Honokaa man faces charges after allegedly driving over 100 mph and fleeing police; a McCully moped rider was seriously injured in a hit-and-run. Community & Culture: Registration is open for Hoaaina Stewardship Day June 13 at Kahaluu Bay, and Rep. Jill Tokuda introduced a resolution honoring the 1906 arrival of Filipino “Sakadas.”

Lahaina tourism rebound: Atlantis Submarines Maui has restarted undersea tours from the Lahaina Small Boat Harbor, running five days a week and taking guests down to 130 feet to view Maui’s marine life as harbor recovery continues. Hawaiʻi travel safety: The state has declared a traffic emergency zone on Daniel K. Inouye Highway (Saddle Road) between mileposts 5.5 and 28 after multiple fatal crashes this year, with faster safety upgrades planned including rumble strips, high-friction pavement, wet-weather striping, and speed safety cameras. Culture on the calendar: The 2026 Nā Kamehameha Commemorative Pāʻū Parade and Hōʻolauleʻa returns June 20 in Kahului along Kaʻahumanu Avenue, followed by a free Hōʻolauleʻa at Queen Kaʻahumanu Center. Visitor weather check: Trade winds keep conditions mostly comfortable this weekend, but rougher marine conditions mean choppier east-facing shores and a Small Craft Advisory. Local visitor-facing updates: Honouliuli National Historic Site will offer limited guided tours starting July 18 (outdoors, no facilities; reservations via email).

Traffic Safety on Saddle Road: Hawaii DOT will declare a traffic emergency zone on Daniel K. Inouye Highway (mileposts 5.5 to 28) after five deaths on the cross-island route in 2026, with crews already doing sight-distance work, closing passing zones, and adding thermoplastic curbs and delineators; planned upgrades include rumble strips, wet-weather striping, high-friction pavement, speed safety cameras, and more enforcement. Honouliuli Tours: Honouliuli National Historic Site in Kunia will open to the public for limited, outdoor guided tours starting July 18 in partnership with Hawaii’s Plantation Village, with a half-mile unpaved hike and 22 spots per Saturday tour (waitlist available). Space & Tourism Science: China’s Tianwen-2 spacecraft is set to encounter Kamoʻoalewa, the first Hawaiian-named asteroid discovered using UH telescope data from Haleakalā, potentially revealing whether it’s a Moon fragment. Local Dining: Fairway Tavern has opened at Ewa Villages Golf Course, bringing pupus, plate lunches, local favorites, and daily specials for residents and visitors. Weather for Travelers: Breezy trade winds and brief showers favor windward and mauka areas, while leeward spots stay sunnier; rougher seas persist with a Small Craft Advisory through early Sunday. Volleyball: Joshua Walker was named UH Rainbow Wahine head coach, returning to Manoa after Baylor assistant/associate head coach roles.