Search and rescue efforts continue on Kauai
HONOLULU — Search and rescue efforts continued Tuesday after heavy rains battered Kauai during the weekend, stranding hundreds at evacuation centers.
Emergency management officials said the U.S. Army, National Guard and the county airlifted more than 220 people Monday, and continued rescue operations throughout Tuesday.
The Red Cross reported 13 people remained in a shelter overnight in Kilauea, awaiting evacuation.
Heavy rains caused flooding and mudslides Saturday, forcing residents and tourists to evacuation centers. Roads were closed, including on the island’s north shore.
The National Weather Service recorded 28.1 inches of rainfall in Hanalei between 2 a.m. Saturday and 2 a.m. Sunday. The record for a 24-hour period in Hanalei was set in 2012 at 28.54 inches.
Ige picks replacement for vacant House seat
WAILUKU, Maui — Gov. David Ige on Tuesday appointed Troy Hashimoto to fill a state House seat vacated by former Speaker Joe Souki, who resigned last month after acknowledging he sexually harassed women.
Hashimoto was executive assistant to Maui County Council Chairman Mike White for seven years. He served as chairman of the Maui County Democratic Party from 2013-17.
In line with state law, Ige selected Hashimoto from a list of three names provided by the Democratic Party of Maui.
In a statement, Hashimoto noted there is not much time left in the legislative session, which ends May 3. He said his top priority will be to ensure his district’s needs are represented and that important projects are secured in the budget.
Hashimoto, 30, said he plans to run for the seat in the primary election Aug. 11.
Hashimoto said he wants to enter the race because lawmakers need to be in place for “a little bit of time” to invest in their communities and make a difference.
Souki served in the House since 1982, representing Wailuku, Waiehu and Waihee on Maui. He served twice as speaker of the House.
The 86-year-old agreed last month to resign, pay a fine and publicly apologize under a settlement agreement with the state Ethics Commission. Former state Director of Human Services Rachael Wong accused him of sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct.
Maui Democrats nominated Hashimoto along with two others: former Maui County Council Member Dain Kane and attorney Joe Wildman.