Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 76° Today's Paper


Campaign spending? Follow the rules

Political spending is topical every campaign season, but it’s former congressional candidate Kaniela Ing’s violations that bring it to mind currently. In case anyone’s concerned that candidates are flying blind on what’s allowed: Don’t be. The Campaign Spending Commission points to parts of Chapter 11 in state law, but it also hands out guidebooks in plainer language (ags.hawaii.gov/campaign/cc/cc-guidance/).

Specifics do’s and don’ts are there, along with this rule of thumb about expenses: If it’s something you would have spent “irrespective” of your candidacy, it probably isn’t kosher.

Another bike-sharing business

Honolulu’s first dockless bike-sharing system recently launched at Ohana Hale Marketplace on Ward Avenue. Cyclists may park the lightweight, aluminum-frame rides at either public bike racks or private locations pinpointed on Sharee Bikes’ service area app.

The local startup is optimistic that it will meet city specs now taking shape in Bill 57, which would establish a permit process and transit support services program for both docked or dockless shared-use bike services. So far, Sharee’s 200 green-and-white bikes are faring better than Lime of California’s electric scooters. City administration booted that dockless outfit in May when scooters were left parked on sidewalks.

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