Retired state Supreme Court chief justice predicts more court involvement in election disputes, Section 8 housing vouchers costing more and helping less, Fevella loses election dispute, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Retired chief justice says election disputes will matter for Hawaiʻi. Courts will likely be called on to resolve disputes over the November general election, retired Hawaiʻi Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald told lawmakers on Monday while adding the judicial system is fair and impartial and will do everything in its power to get things right. Hawaii Public Radio.

Flood Watch posted statewide, heavy rain possible through tonight. The remnants of Norbert will fill in across the state from east to west Thursday into Friday, increasing the chances of heavy rain, isolated thunderstorms, and flash flooding, especially for the windward and mauka areas.Drier air will move back in this weekend. Moisture from the remnants of Tropical Depression 15-E may bring another round of enhanced trade showers around next Tuesday and Wednesday. Hawaii News Now. KITV4. 

More Money For Section 8 Housing Vouchers Has Not Helped Enough Renters, Study Says. Economist says Hawaiʻi needs to build more housing and help people earn enough to leave the program and free up vouchers for others. Civil Beat. Aloha State Daily.

Could Kamehameha Schools lose its tax-exempt status?  Every September marks the start of Hawaiian History Month, and this year’s begins with news of the Trump administration potentially seeking to strip Kamehameha Schools of its tax-exempt status. Hawaii Public Radio.

‘We Were The Guinea Pigs’: How Smokable Meth Made Its U.S. Landfall In Hawaiʻi. Methamphetamine was largely unknown in Hawaiʻi in the mid-1980s, when “ice” took the islands by storm, setting off a national panic. Four decades later, the state is dealing with the lethal consequences. Civil Beat.

Mike Lambert, who was a finalist for the Honolulu police chief position, is still at the Department of Law Enforcement — but in a new position. As of September, Lambert is now the department’s Chief Special Investigator. KHON2.

 Oahu

State Sen. Kurt Fevella loses appeal of court’s ruling in election tie. Fevella lost a random draw to break a 1,212-to-1,212-vote tie following his Aug. 8 Republican Party primary race against former state Rep. Bob McDermott to run in the Nov. 3 general election to represent the West Oahu Senate District 20 seat. The Supreme Court on Sept. 4 did order the state to hold a new election for the Republican House primary race to represent Kapolei and Makakilo after Rep. Kanani Souza (R, Kapolei-Makakilo) and Sheila Medeiros each received 842 votes.Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Hawaii launches first permanent drone docking system for law enforcement. The Hawaii Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) unveiled the state’s first permanent drone “hive” Wednesday at the Kekuanaoa Building on Punchbowl Street. KITV4.

Palolo Valley residents push back against invasive coqui frog. During a community meeting Wednesday, residents teamed up with state invasive species crews to coordinate response efforts. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

A month after Hurricane Lala’s outerbands struck the Big Island, recovery is slow but sure in hard hit Ka’ū. Lala destroyed 27 homes and did much damage to many other homes, with Hawaiʻi County estimating $53 million to its facilities and infrastructure.  Big Island Now.

Kona Community Hospital nationally recognized for providing life-saving care for stroke patients. Consistently following national stroke guidelines has helped the hospital to reduce deaths and disability.  Big Island Now.

Maui

In council rematches, candidates dive into development, tourism, homelessness, water. With the balance of the Maui County Council on the line, 12 of the 14 candidates in the seven contested races answered questions ranging from water Upcountry to homelessness in Kahului to tourism in East Maui during a political forum last week at the Kula Community Center.  Maui Now.

West Maui community conversation highlights nearly $600 Million transportation opportunity. The Maui Bicycling League is calling on state and county officials to coordinate nearly $600 million in planned and potential West Maui transportation investments to create a connected network for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and public transit users. Maui Bicycling League members and supporters gathered in Lahaina on Saturday, Sept. 12, for a well-attended bicycle ride, brunch and nonpartisan conversation about West Maui’s transportation future. Maui Now. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauaʻi Vacation Rental Owners Urged To Take In Displaced Families. Hurricane Lowell has left dozens in need of temporary housing on the North Shore, where at least 1 of every 5 homes is a vacation rental. Civil Beat.

Kauaʻi businesses rebuild from Hurricane Lowell while weighing when — and how — tourism should return. In the wake of Hurricane Lowell's devastation in Kauaʻi, local businesses like North Shore Bike Doktor and Pineapple Kayaks Kauaʻi face a difficult crossroads as they navigate recovery efforts amid uncertainty in the tourism-dependent economy.  Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai mayor says he would mandate evacuations during future storms. County updates Hurricane Lowell recovery efforts. Recovery efforts continued across Kaua‘i Wednesday as crews prepared for increased rain from the remnants of Norbert and work to restore communities hit by Hurricane Lowell. Garden Island. KHON2. 

Senate President Kouchi shares stories of Kauaʻi's recovery after Lowell. As Kauaʻi continues to rebuild after Hurricane Lowell, HPR spoke with Senate President Ron Kouchi to hear an update on where things stand with recovery on his home island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Isolated Kauai residents remain resilient despite hazards left by Lowell. As many Kauai residents begin to return to a sense of normalcy following Hurricane Lowell, those who live in one of the island’s most isolated communities continue to drive underneath trees suspended from power lines. Star-Advertiser.

Constitutional amendment would allow tax-free bonds for construction industry, Honolulu exempts HART from eminent domain notification requirements, electricity returning to Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii construction industry pushes constitutional amendment to lower housing costs. Constitutional amendment question 2 is mostly about paying for new roads, bridges and water systems, which until now housing developers had to pay for themselves upfront. The tax-free bonds, already used across the country, are paid back from future property taxes generated by new homes and businesses in an improvement district. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi Voting Groups Cheer As High Court Rejects Trump Mail Ballot Restrictions. The decision allows Hawaiʻi and other states to continue sending mail ballots under existing processes. Trump wanted restrictions before the November elections.  Civil Beat.

More Unlicensed Teachers Are Filling In Gaps In Hawaiʻi Classrooms. The Hawaiʻi Department of Education reported 142 teacher vacancies earlier this month, a jump from the 73 unfilled positions last school year. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaiʻi tuition freezes, increases proposed for all campuses. A new proposed schedule would keep tuition unchanged at all of the University of Hawaiʻi’s campuses for two years. After the freeze, two years of increases would begin. KHON2.

Preparations underway for final aloha for Gov. George Ariyoshi. Members of the general public have several opportunities later this week to pay respects to late Hawaii Gov. George Ariyoshi and his family, starting with a visitation and ceremony Friday at the state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council exempts HART from eminent domain notice rule. The Honolulu City Council has approved legislation exempting the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation from a city law requirement to notify property owners and lessees when seeking Council authorization to condemn their property for construction of the over $10 billion Skyline project. Star-Advertiser.

Bill passed by City Council would allow farmers markets in underutilized parks. The Honolulu City Council passed a bill on Wednesday that would allow the Department of Parks and Recreation to permit nonprofit organizations to host farmers markets and food distribution events in underutilized public parks. Aloha State Daily.

He Was Banned From Police Work In California But Hired In Honolulu. A California cop stonewalled an internal investigation into his handling of an alleged kidnapping while lining up a job in Hawai‘i as an investigator in the prosecutor’s office. Civil Beat.

City and state join forces to help prevent Honolulu’s flood problem. City and state crews were working along the Woodlawn Drive Bridge in Mānoa, an area known for flooding, before both Hurricane Lala and Hurricane Lowell hit the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

University of Hawaiʻi law school brings recruitment events to Big Island. University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa William S. Richardson School of Law representatives will provide an overview of program details, admission requirements, application process, timelines and scholarships as well as be available to answer any specific questions those who attend might have. Big Island Now.

Maui

Mayor to host series of community meetings for 2028 budget. Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen and officials from his administration will host a series of community budget meetings for residents to offer input on the budget for fiscal year 2028. Maui News.

Hawaiian Council opens vendor applications for ʻUlu O Lele Marketplace in Lahaina. Hawaiian Council announced Monday that the website and vendor application portal are now live for ʻUlu o Lele, the interim marketplace and community gathering space being developed at the former Outlets of Maui site in Lahaina. Maui Now. Hawaii News Now. 

Significant Little Fire Ant infestations discovered on Maui in Ha‘ikū and Kapalua. Native to Central and South America, little fire ants arrived in Hawai‘i in the late 1990s, likely as hitchhikers on a cargo or nursery shipment. Today, they are among the most destructive invasive species on the islands. Maui Now.

Kauai

Power back on for most of Kauai but some areas may have to wait 2 weeks. Some areas of Kauai’s North Shore could see power restoration on Wednesday, though it could take one to two more weeks for remote areas to turn on their lights, according to the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Star-Advertiser. Kauai Now.  Garden Island. 

‘Definitely A Hit’: Hawaiʻi Urges Trump To OK Disaster Aid. Kauaʻi will have to tap its reserve funds to help pay for damages from Lowell as state leaders seek major disaster declarations from the White House. Civil Beat.

County of Kauaʻi extends application deadline for Grant-in-Aid program. The application deadline for the County of Kauaʻi Grant-in-Aid program has been extended to 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 30. Kauai Now.

Travelers heed calls to avoid Kauai amid Hurricane Lowell recovery. As Kauai recovers from Hurricane Lowell, many residents are repeating their calls to visitors to avoid traveling to the island, and it appears some are listening.  Hawaii News Now.

Upcoming ballot mailing ruling could cost the state millions, state officials plan $300k transit fact-finding trip, Kauai schools reopen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii could face costly scramble to deliver ballots. A pending U.S. Supreme Court ruling could require Hawaii to spend millions of dollars to hire private companies to deliver ballots to every household where someone is registered to vote. But voters could not use the mail system to return their ballots, so individual voters would have to place them in drop-box locations or at in-person voter service centers. Star-Advertiser.

State leaders seek ideas on transit development. State leaders want to glean ideas for better transit-­oriented development in Hawaii by visiting other states and countries next month at a cost of up to $300,000. Sen. Chris Lee, who chairs the Senate Committee on Water, Land, Culture and Arts, spearheaded a $300,000 appropriation in the state budget approved by the Legislature in May for the Hawaii Community Development Authority to spend on “educational exchange programs” related to metropolitan planning organizations on Maui and Oahu. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. 

Marigold Zoll tapped to lead Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife. In her new position, Zoll will oversee the division’s ongoing efforts to care for more than 1 million acres of state lands, including 57 forest reserves, 23 natural area reserves, 46 wildlife sanctuaries, precious forested watersheds, as well as 855 miles of public access trails to hunting and recreation areas statewide. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi Can’t Catch A Break From Storms. It Has To Adapt. As the state recovers from multiple natural disasters, residents and officials are starting to talk about what needs to change to make the islands more resilient. Civil Beat. Maui Now. 

Oahu

Audit faults Honolulu’s use of $386M in COVID-19 relief funds. The City and County of Honolulu’s use of more than $386 million in federal COVID-19 relief funding failed to deliver the broader community and economic recovery benefits originally envisioned, an Office of the City Auditor report determined. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu District Court closed Monday due to loss of water and air conditioning. Hearings scheduled Monday in Courtroom 7C for defendants in custody, along with preliminary hearings, will instead be held at Kaneohe District Court, 45-939 Pookela St. Star-Advertiser.

Office building overhaul adds affordable rental units in Honolulu. Urban Honolulu has some new affordable housing following completion of a $25 million acquisition and conversion of a 52-year-old office building into 64 rental apartments for moderate-income households. Star-Advertiser.

HPD investigates officers’ use of force in Waikiki domestic dispute. The Honolulu Police Department said it is investigating after a video that appeared to show officers repeatedly striking a man during a domestic dispute arrest in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Care on the streets: Medical students bring help to the homeless. The Hawaii H.O.M.E. (Homeless Outreach and Medical Education) Project relies on donations, fundraisers and volunteers, including physicians who serve as attending doctors. Star-Advertiser.

Sea Life Park begins new transformation. The transformation of Sea Life Park under Hawaiian ownership has begun. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

UH seeks changes to Maunakea summit master plan. The University of Hawaii is seeking input from the public on proposed changes to its master plan for the Maunakea summit region, including revisions to allow for decommissioned observatory sites to be reused for astronomical purposes in the future. Tribune-Herald.

Under bill, county would be required to prioritize use of native plants. Bill 184 would establish requirements for incorporating native plants into county-owned and managed spaces. Tribune-Herald.

Palikapu Dedman, activist and founder of Pele Defense Fund, dies at 80. Palikapu Dedman, Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, activist, farmer, environmental advocate and founder of the Pele Defense Fund, died Aug. 22. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mokulele awarded $19.4 million contract for Lanai air service. Mokulele Airlines has been awarded a four-year, $19.4 million federal contract to continue providing scheduled air service between Lanai, Honolulu and Kahului. Maui News.

2026 Maui County Fair contests announced, healthy babies, student art and more. The 2026 Maui County Fair will offer opportunities for community members of all ages to participate in contests, competitions and exhibitions when the 99th fair returns Oct. 1-4. Maui Now.

Kauai

State offices, most public schools to reopen Monday on Kauai. State offices and most public schools will reopen on Kauai Monday as the island continues to recover Hurricane Lowell’s lashing. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.

All in-person services at Līhuʻe Civic Center closed through this week. A fire at the Kāpule Building resulted in closure of all in-person Kauaʻi County services through Sept. 18 at Līhuʻe Civic Center. Kauai Now.

The scope of destruction left behind by Hurricane Lowell continues to grow. In addition to 301 County damage assessments, community members have now self-submitted more than 464 residential damage reports. Garden Island.

Repairs underway on Lānaʻi’s Kaumālapaʻu Harbor, scheduled to reopen Sunday. Repairs are underway to restore Lānaʻi’s Kaumālapaʻu Harbor after it was closed with damage from Hurricane Lowell. The state Department of Transportation said it anticipates it will reopen on Sunday, Sept. 13. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lowell May Be To Blame For A Second Kaua‘i Death. A 69-year-old Wainiha man was found dead Friday afternoon on the Garden Isle’s North Shore in an area that experienced significant flooding, according to a preliminary investigation by Kaua‘i police.  Civil Beat. KITV4. 

Kauai farmers’ plight underscores need for local food production. The ongoing power and water outages from Hurricane Lowell underscore the need to support local food production, farmers say, while helping to make the islands more resilient to natural disasters. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor advises tourists to reconsider travel to Kauaʻi until island recovers more from Hurricane Lowell. Kaua‘i County Mayor Derek Kawakami said now isn't the time to visit the Garden Island, but the island is on the path to recovery. Kauai Now.

Luke corruption trial delayed, another disputed legislative tiebreaker before the state Supreme Court, tourists asked to avoid Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Luke corruption trial pushed to 2027. In July, the corruption trial of Luke and four others — lobbyist Tobi Solidum, former state Rep. Ryan Yamane, state Airports Administrator Ford Fuchigami and former Public Utilities Commission chair Leodoloff Asuncion Jr. — was scheduled to begin on Sept. 28, after four of the five defendants, excluding Solidum, pleaded not guilty. But on Friday, that trial was pushed back a year, after attorneys for multiple defendants requested additional time to prepare. Aloha State Daily.

Disputed Tiebreaker Spurs New Rematch Request Of Supreme Court. The election do-over bid comes after incumbent Kurt Fevella lost a tiebreaker to Bob McDermott in the Republican primary. Less than a week after ordering the state Office of Elections to redo a state House race that was settled in a controversial tiebreaker, the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court is being asked to order a redo of another contest decided by a tiebreaker last month. Civil Beat. KHON2. 

Gov. Josh Green requests expedited Major Disaster Declaration following Hurricane Lowell. After signing the document on Kauaʻi, Green submitted an expedited request to President Donald J. Trump for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration following Hurricane Lowell, seeking immediate federal assistance for Kauaʻi and Maui counties. Maui Now. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. 

Hawai‘i joins lawsuits over endangered species protections. Federal agencies rescission of endangered species protections led 21 states to sue the federal government Wednesday. Aloha State Daily.

Oahu

More Housing Without Kicking Anyone Out? It’s Possible, Apparently. New owner of Honolulu building is making unusual plan to upgrade building but stabilize rents for occupied units. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric restores a majority of Oahu outages after Hurricane Lowell affects thousands. Hawaiian Electric restored power to a majority of those on Oahu after severe conditions from Hurricane Lowell left thousands without power. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Garbage Fee Increases Proposed, Public Hearings Set. The County of Hawaiʻi Department of Environmental Management will host public hearings on the fee increases in Hilo on September 16th, and in Kona on September 18th. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiʻi County planning director initiates interim General Plan 2045 amendments. Hawaiʻi County Council and members of the public can comment on the proposed amendments during a 45-day comment period ending Oct. 19.  Big Island Now.

Lifeguard towers going unstaffed as county finds filling positions difficult. The  county has 72 water safety officers to cover 17 lifeguard towers at 13 beach parks and there are currently nine vacant positions. The beach parks with towers are: Onekahakaha, Carlsmith, Leleiwi, Richardson and Honolii in Hilo; Isaac Hale at Pohoiki in Puna; Punaluu Black Sand in Ka‘u; Kua Bay, Laaloa and Kahaluu in Kailua-Kona; and Hapuna and Spencer in South Kohala. Tribune-Herald.

Parker Ranch begins deliveries of locally raised beef to isle schools. Parker Ranch — in partnership with Hamakua Meat Processors and the state Department of Education — will deliver approximately 4,000 pounds of locally raised ground beef each month, helping provide students with food produced here at home while supporting the broader effort to strengthen local agriculture and Hawaii’s food system. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

License plate-reading cameras used on Maui — but not for surveillance, police say. The Maui Police Department said it uses about three dozen controversial automatic license plate reading cameras to help with law enforcement, but doesn't use them for surveillance purposes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lahaina residents, elected officials press USPS to rebuild post office, restore home delivery. The Postal Service said it has not made permanent decisions about delivery to rebuilt properties or the future of the downtown post office. Maui News.

Ranching improves with fewer axis deer. Culling appears to be working, but struggles persist for some farms. Haleakala Ranch president Scott Meidell has noticed that new fencing and the culling of wild axis deer have contributed to a steady gain in the ranch's breeding herds the last two years. Maui News.

Kauai

Visitors asked to stay away from Kauai during Hurricane Lowell recovery. Kauai, like the rest of the state, usually welcomes visitors. But in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Lowell, the message to tourists is clear: now is not the time to visit. Hawaii News Now.

Most of Kauai still without power; officials say storm surge likely killed man. About 75% of Kauai electricity customers had no power Wednesday as residents continued to confront Hurricane Lowell’s widespread devastation, which now includes what county officials believe is the island’s first fatality from the storm. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Grocery store serves as vital link with power out. Safeway was one of the only grocery stores open following the storm. It was running on a large backup generator, an employee said, which had been on 10% since Tuesday night. Star-Advertiser.

Lānaʻi harbor is closed with hurricane damage, barge delivery canceled. Lānaʻi's Kaumālapaʻu Harbor is closed due to significant damage from Hurricane Lowell. The port is where the island is served by a single, once-a-week barge.  Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. 

Making New Kaua‘i Homes Wildfire Resistant May Cost Much More Than Expected. A Kaua‘i County Council committee wants more time to discuss how proposed new building standards could increase construction costs and whether the county should subsidize them. Civil Beat.

Hurricane Lowell predicted to turn north, state Supreme Court mulls special election for tiebreaker Oahu House seat, Skyline hits record with student riders, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hurricane Lowell expected to take a turn north toward Hawaii. Powerful Hurricane Lowell is passing far south of Hawaii through Friday but it’s where it goes afterward that has emergency officials and residents anxious. While the details of Lowell’s turn remain uncertain, the possibility is especially unnerving on Kauai, which on Sept. 11 will mark the 34th anniversary of Hurricane Iniki, which took a similar path and devastated the island. Star-Advertiser.  Big Island Video News. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. KITV4. 

Navy Region Hawaii conducts change-of-command ceremony. Navy Region Hawaii Commander Rear Adm. Brad Collins on Wednesday relinquished his command as he prepares to go to Washington, D.C., to oversee Navy Installations Command, putting him in charge of overseeing shoreside operations for the U.S. Navy across the world. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Rematch May Be Coming For House Seat Decided By Tiebreaker. The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court will decide Friday whether a special election is needed for the tight race between two Oʻahu Republicans. Civil Beat. KHON2.

Amazon fulfillment center zoning deferred. The Honolulu Planning Commission on Wednesday voted 7-0 to defer action on a zoning change sought by Amazon for its more than $600 million Project Savoy Fulfillment Center, delaying a decision on whether the company can build a massive five-story warehouse in West Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Skyline sees record number of rides as students return to school. The City and County of Honolulu said on Aug. 26 that Skyline recorded 14,143 rides, the highest weekday ridership total to date, with average weekday ridership from Aug. 24 through Aug. 28 at 13,478. KHON2.

Construction continues as Skyline stretches into the city. The next leg of the Skyline rail project is headed into the urban core, and evidence of its headway can be seen with the first column and cap being constructed along Nimitz Highway. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu city agencies used more energy and water in 2025. Honolulu's municipal energy and water usage rose significantly last year, according to the city’s latest Annual Sustainability Report. In 2025, city agencies used about 30 million more kilowatt-hours of electricity — enough to power about 500 homes for an entire year. Agency water use was also up by about half a million gallons per day. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island’s Hurricane Lala damage estimate nears $100M with housing top priority. There are still struggles, but also definite progress on Hawaii Island after Hurricane Lala. Hawaii News Now.

PONC measure advances after County Council vote. Legislation to create a framework for regularly reviewing the list of properties targeted for acquisition through Hawaii County’s Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission (PONC) is moving forward after passing an initial vote Wednesday by the County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Ka‘u students return to in-person learning in aftermath of Lala. More than 850 students at two Ka‘u schools returned to in-person learning this week, marking a major step toward normalcy nearly two weeks after Hurricane Lala battered the district. Star-Advertiser.

Dengue virus detected in wastewater sample from Hawaiʻi Island. A wastewater sample from the Hilo wastewater treatment plant tested positive for dengue virus, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Health. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.   Big Island Now.

Maui

MPD officer allegedly raped woman after single-car accident. The Maui Prosecuting Attorney is asking potential victims and witnesses to come forward in the case of a police officer who allegedly raped a woman after she crashed her car in May 2025. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Public asked to comment on subsidized ferry proposal.  Maui County officials are hoping to create a subsidized ferry system in Valley Isle waters, where private ferries have sometimes shut down in the past. Maui News.

County announces plans to open temporary safe parking site after Sugimura proposes resolution. County officials said teams and community partners have conducted more than 60 outreach and engagement efforts along Pulehu and Hansen roads during the past three months. They also have completed more than 25 cleanups, removed more than 10 tons of waste and debris and 56 abandoned vehicles, and helped three people move from the encampment into permanent housing. Maui News. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now. 

Konig jurors to be queried on misconduct claim. The 12 jurors who served during Gerhardt Konig’s attempted murder trial must return to the courtroom for questioning on possible jury misconduct. The Maui anesthesiologist was found guilty April 8 of attempted manslaughter of his wife, Arielle Konig, based on extreme mental or emotional distress, rather than second-degree attempted murder as charged. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Motorists face weeklong Halekō Road closure starting Sept. 8. The Department of Transportation will implement a 24/7 closure of Haleko Road westbound for a week due to concrete work for the ʻUahi Ridge Housing development.  Kauai Now.

Hawaii Supreme Court requires fifth Miranda warning, audit finds questionable spending in Honolulu $386M Covid funding, FAA denies helicopter jumps, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A Molokai murder case has led the Hawaii Supreme Court to require a fifth Miranda warning statewide after justices found the Maui Police Department’s advisement was insufficient. Detectives advised a suspect  that he had the right to remain silent, that anything he said could be used against him, that he had the right to the presence of an attorney, and that if he couldn’t afford one, one would be appointed for free. The Hawaii Supreme Court said those four main points should have include a fifth warning — that a suspect in custody can stop answering questions at any time and request an attorney. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii helicopter jumps denied by FAA. The Federal Aviation Administration has denied a Hawaii company’s request to keep dropping tourists from low-hovering helicopters into the ocean. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. 

Hawaii to get $58M to boost healthcare in rural areas. The federal Rural Health Transformation Program, CMS said, will help improve access, infrastructure and technology, and strengthen the healthcare workforce, in rural communities across Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Now. 

Oahu

Covid Audit: Millions Meant To Support Oʻahu Residents Went Elsewhere. Honolulu’s “ambitious” plans had to shift so the money could be spent in time, Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s managing director said. Almost three-quarters of the entire $386 million federal award went toward four areas, the audit found: the purchase of the Waikīkī Vista property, a one-time payment toward retired city employees’ healthcare, short-term household assistance and water infrastructure improvement. Civil Beat.

Senate District 18 race set after Kidani retirement. On Aug. 31, Democratic Party nominee Danielle Bass finalized her candidate filing with the Office of Elections. She was picked by the party to run for the seat vacated by the retirement of Senator Michelle Kidani. KHON2.

Voters to decide on once-a-decade changes for Honolulu Charter. Among the ideas making it on the ballot, a new food security fund, protections for immigrants related to policing and ranked-choice voting in all special elections. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Chief Lazar names permanent HPD deputy chiefs. David Lazar selected Brandon Nakasato, a nearly 27-year HPD veteran, to oversee the department’s field operations and serve as the second-in-­command acting chief, when warranted. Maj. Parker Bode, who has 16 years with the department, was also chosen to lead HPD’s administrative operations. Star-Advertiser. Aloha State Daily.

Hawaii Island

Rumored Lala ‘Dam Burst’ Was Likely Invasive Trees, Officials Say. Kaʻū residents are bringing a new level of scrutiny to the hills above Nāʻālehu after Hurricane Lala prompted questions about the aging water systems above the town. Civil Beat.

After more than two weeks, the lights are back on at Waiakea Villas. Electricity was lost at the 200-plus unit apartment complex during Hurricane Lala, but the extended outage was due to issues with the property’s electrical equipment, according to Hawaiian Electric. Tribune-Herald.

Precautionary Boil Water Notice For Nāʻālehu Area Continued. The Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply (DWS) says the previously issued notice remains in effect for its customers in Nā‘ālehu, Wai‘ōhinu, Green Sands subdivision, Mark Twain subdivision, Discovery Harbor and South Point Road. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Hearing set on Hoʻonani Village housing project. The proposed development at Hansen and Pulehu roads would include 1,608 multifamily housing units, including 800 affordable units, along with commercial, recreational and light-industrial uses. Maui News. Maui Now. 

12 Year veteran Maui police officer arrested for 4 counts of sexual assault. Devin Schoeppner, 49, of Kahului, was arrested Monday on a $150,000 warrant and charged with four counts of sexual assault in the second degree and two counts of sexual assault in the third degree. Star-Advertiser. Maui News. Maui Now.  KHON2. 

Kalaupapa memorial sought for exiled residents. On Friday, the Board of Land and Natural Resources approved a right-of-entry permit and lease to Ka ‘Ohana O Kalaupapa, a nonprofit made up of residents and their family members and friends. It was established in 2003 and is dedicated to honoring those forcibly isolated in Kalaupapa, a remote peninsula on Molokai’s north shore, from 1866 to 1969. Star-Advertiser. KITV4. 

Kauai

KIUC looks to fill key leadership role with retirement of the Member Services and Communications Manager. The Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative seeks a new member services and communications manager as Beth Amaro prepares to retire in early 2027. Kauai Now.

‘E Mau Ke Ea: The Sovereign Hawaiian Nation’ traveling Smithsonian exhibit on display at Kauaʻi Community College. Community members are invited to view “E Mau Ke Ea: The Sovereign Hawaiian Nation,” a traveling Smithsonian Institution exhibit now on display through December in Kauaʻi Community College library. Kauai Now.

Ed Case a popular politician, tropical storm, hurricane unlikely to threaten Hawaii, Par Pacific Holdings makes bank on high gas prices, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines cite jobs, merger gains, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Is Ed Case Hawaiʻi’s Most Popular Politician? Voters Say Yes. Case is a moderate Democrat who some in his party hoped to defeat this year. But in general elections he regularly outperforms his colleagues. Since being elected to Hawaiʻi’s 1st Congressional District in 2018, Case has consistently outperformed his federal colleagues on the November ballot. That includes winning a higher percentage than Democratic U.S. Sens. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono in his district and statewide. He’s also performed better than Democratic presidential candidates Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, each of whom drubbed Donald Trump in the islands.  Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi’s Pain At The Pump Is Oil Giant’s Gain. High gas prices created a recent windfall for the state’s only oil refiner. Par Pacific Holdings, the parent of Par Hawaiʻi, raked in $462 million in profit for the quarter ended June 30, an increase of more than $402.6 million over the net income the company reported for the same period a year ago.  Civil Beat.

BLNR delays decision on aquarium fishing. After more than six hours of passionate public testimony, the Land Board directed the Division of Aquatic Resources to further consider alternatives under the public trust doctrine and cultural landscape analyses and also address technical and legal issues before returning to the board. The board did not give an indication over whether it was in favor or opposed to a statewide ban. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

Tropical Storm Lowell not a threat to the islands: Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense.  Forecasts keep both Lowell and Hurricane Karina away from the main Hawaiian islands, but there’s a high degree of uncertainty in the forecast models because of possible interaction between the two. National Weather Service said Lowell continues moving westward with “little change in intensity,” and is expected to maintain this motion for the next two to three days.  KHON2. Hawaii News Now. 

Schatz looks to federal policy to expand Native Hawaiian housing access. U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz (D, Hawaii) met with local housing and Native Hawaiian leaders to discuss efforts to expand access to housing for Native Hawaiians amid Hawaii’s broader housing shortage. Star-Advertiser.

Alaska, Hawaiian airlines report merger gains. Alaska and Hawaiian airlines say their merger has resulted in a net gain of more than 1,100 jobs and is ahead of schedule financially nearly two years after receiving federal approval, although the companies still have not completed joint labor agreements for unionized workers. Star-Advertiser.

Private-practice doctors alarmed by HMSA policy changes. Hawaii Medical Service Association earlier this year stunned providers when it mandated they switch from fixed monthly “transformation” payments back to a traditional fee-for-service system, with only 60 days’ notice, by July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Panda Diplomacy: A Mayor’s Quest To Bring Pandas From China To The Honolulu Zoo. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s efforts to court China included a gift of lei, a letter to President Xi Jinping and a trip to China with the CEO of Panda Express.  Civil Beat.

Supreme Court rules Tommy Waters ineligible. The Hawaii Supreme Court Friday ruled Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters ineligible to seek a third consecutive term on the Council, resolving two legal cases challenging the outcome of the Aug. 8 primary election for the East Honolulu seat. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. KITV4. 

Lawsuit: Honolulu’s Inaction Led To Deadly Waiʻanae Rampage In 2024. Family members of three women fatally shot by a neighbor in Waiʻanae two years ago claim city officials failed to intervene in the neighbor’s dangerous and illegal behavior in the years leading up to the shooting, according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed Thursday.  Civil Beat.

Nightclub accuses liquor board of retaliation. A Chinatown nightclub has filed its second federal civil rights lawsuit against the city and Honolulu Liquor Commission, alleging the agency resumed retaliatory conduct that a $670,000 settlement agreement last year was supposed to end. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu unveils renovated Pahinui Pavilion. The structure at Waimanaolo Beach Park s dedicated to the late Gabby “Pops” Pahinui, an award-winning musician and ambassador of Hawaiian culture.  Star-Advertiser.

Ward Centre demolition underway 2 months after tenants move out. Once demolition is complete, the plan calls for two condo towers that include 369 units, along with 20,000 square feet of retail space and a new one-acre public park. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

2022 report found bridge faulty. Four years before the bridge connecting Hilo to Coconut Island collapsed under the weight of a maintenance vehicle, Hawaii County received an inspection report that detailed extensive structural issues and recommended the span replaced. Tribune-Herald.

Over 300 Acres In Hilo To Be Conveyed To Hawaiian Home Lands. The land transfer under the requirements of Act 14 include the Hawaiʻi County NAS Swimming Pool Facility. Big Island Video News.

In Hawaiʻi County’s Emergency Operations Center, officials rely on weather information from in-house meteorologist. Days before Hurricane Lala struck the Big Island with 70 mph winds, heavy rain and flash floods on Aug. 15 and 16, Sean Miller was in Hawaiʻi County’s Emergency Operations Center helping officials make educated decisions and craft public messages. Big Island Now.

‘Wake-Up Call’: How Lala Shut Down Water Service On Big Island. Most of the pumps that deliver water from wells stopped working when the electricity was cut off. The county lacks emergency generators to run them all. Civil Beat.

Complicated effort to retrieve, ID remains from Na‘alehu Cemetery continues. Hawaii County officials on Wednesday held a community meeting at Na‘alehu Elementary School Gym to update families with loved ones buried in Na‘alehu Cemetery, which was heavily damaged by flooding from Hurricane Lala earlier this month. Tribune-Herald.

Power outage drags on at Waiakea Villas; electrical woes apparently predate Lala. The power went out at the 200-plus unit apartment complex in Hilo amid islandwide outages during Hurricane Lala, but Hawaiian Electric has confirmed that the extended outage is due to issues with the property’s own electrical equipment. Tribune-Herald.

First-of-its-kind all-terrain fire fighting truck gifted to Hawai’i County. A new Fawcett Cannon all-terrain fire fighting truck that recently made its debut on Hawai‘i Island, donated by Marc and Lynne Benioff through the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation, is now available to help protect ʻāina, property and people when the next wildland fire sparks. Big Island Now.

Maui

$4B Mākena development with 652 homes advances after reducing project 27% due to public pushback. A project of 652 market-rate and affordable homes on 1,000 acres in Mākena is moving forward after developers scaled back more than a quarter of the project in response to community backlash. Maui Now.

Maui County receives $3.6 million for West Maui waste center. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded the county a $3,607,065 Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grant. The money will be used to acquire property and develop a center where residents can dispose of recyclables, green waste and bulky items. Maui News. Maui Now. 

State plans to roll out reservation system at popular Maui bay. A popular surf and snorkeling spot in West Maui may be added to the list of visitor attractions around the state that could get measures to ease crowding. The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority is in the process of rolling out a reservation system at Honolua Bay, which appears to have gained many supporters. Hawaii News Now.

A new county pilot program is bringing locally grown food to Maui kūpuna. A new pilot program is launching to provide Maui kūpuna with locally grown produce. For the next six months, Maui County’s Department of Agriculture will support increased access to fresh food for 100 seniors each week. The Locally Grown Healthy Food for Kūpuna program starts in September. Hawaii Public Radio.

Trace levels of selenium detected in Kaunakakai water system. Routine water quality testing recently identified trace levels of selenium in the Kaunakakai water system, which serves the Kaunakakai area of Molokai, according to the Maui County Department of Water Supply. Maui News.

Kauai

How Kaua‘i’s Mayoral Candidates Plan To Tackle Trash. Boosting recycling and other diversion efforts are top priorities while the Garden Isle gets its new landfill up and running. Civil Beat.

Water service will shut down overnight in part of Poipū Sept. 2 and 3. The shutdown is required to enable a contractor to connect newly installed waterline infrastructure associated with a roundabout project. Kauai Now.

A tribute to the Farm Fair. Several hundred people surged throughout the Kukui Grove shopping center, pausing to take in features like the Fruit and Vegetable Show, community exhibits from various agriculture and land-based government and private businesses, and vendors like the Menehune Kitchen that are part of the weekly Monday Pau Hana Market. Garden Island.

University of Hawaii withdraws proposed First Amendment restrictions, Honokaa hospital battles major Covid outbreak, Carvalho withdraws from Kauai mayoral debate, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii withdraws free speech, assembly changes.  In an email to the UH community Wednesday, University of Hawaii President Wendy Hensel wrote that since the implementation of UH’s interim time, place and manner policy “we have heard concerns from some members of our community that the interim rules, particularly around parameters such as the 25-foot building setbacks, the 60-decibel noise thresholds and chalking feel overly restrictive and could discourage expressive activity." Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Ag Leaders Planned To Oust Official Despite Public Praise. Agribusiness Development Corp. Executive Director Wendy Gady resigned days after the agency’s board celebrated progress. Civil Beat.

World-Traveling Hawaiʻi Bureaucrat Arranged $30M In Tech Contracts. Department directors sent Brandon Asuka o conferences, site visits and presentations all over the world on the taxpayer’s dime in an effort, they say, to set up the agency with the most advanced law enforcement technology available. These trips, in turn, have translated into multimillion-dollar contracts for tech companies — one of which has hired Asuka as a product developer, even as he continues to work for the state as a contractor.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii to receive $76M in landmark Meta settlement. The settlements announced today end a federal trial over allegations that Meta’s products harmed children and the company misled the public about their safety. Reuters.

Oahu

New HPD chief says he favors a new police district for Waianae. HPD’s District 8 actually includes the area all the way from Ewa Beach to Makaha. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu And Dole Sued By Residents Over Negligence In Kona Low Floods. They allege an unkempt stream and inadequate drainage from Lake Wilson caused the flooding of their homes. Civil Beat.

NOAA confirms death of another monk seal on Oahu. Federal wildlife officials confirmed the death of the fifth endangered Hawaiian monk seal in the past month on Oahu – this time, an adult female. Federal wildlife officials confirmed the death of yet another endangered Hawaiian monk seal on Oahu – this time, an adult female. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said monk seal RL70 was found dead, but did not diclose the time or location on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Extent of Red Hill fuel cleanup still undetermined. In a House Special Committee on Red Hill informational briefing Tuesday, the Navy Closure Task Force-Red Hill shared its progress in retiring the facility where a jet-fuel spill contaminated drinking water for about 93,000 Oahu residents in 2021. Star-Advertiser.

Low-Income Seniors Left Stranded After Lala Floods Building Elevator. A multi-story apartment building for seniors was hit by flooding that wiped out its only elevator. Kalākaua Vista is eight-stories high and designated for people aged 62 years and older whose income does not exceed 50% of the county median, currently $53,900 for a single person. Civil Beat.

Repairs underway at eatery where ceiling collapsed. The property owner of a 91-year-old Kaimuki building where a ceiling collapse on Aug. 18, injured patrons of a popular Chinese restaurant, has “begun repairing the wall along 11th Avenue that may pose a hazard,” Department of Planning and Permitting officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki fentanyl overdose cluster triggers urgent warning for young adults. The Department of Health is warning young adults after 12 overdose calls in less than one week. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Staff at long-term wing in Honoka‘a Hospital dealing with COVID-19 outbreak of nearly half its patients. As of Monday, 26 out of 59 patients in the long-term wing and 12 of the wing’s staff tested positive for the virus. Big Island Now.

HECO outages on Hawaii Island drop to 1,600. Hawaiian Electric Co., which is being supported by 50 utility workers from Southern California Edison, said Wednesday evening it reached a major milestone on Hawaii Island.  with the successful return of a key transmission line from Pahala to Kilauea that has allowed crews to return power to customers in Pahala. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. KITV4. 

Mobile Medical Services Launched in Nāʻālehu After Hurricane Floods Close Health Center. Medical teams working at a flood-damaged health center in Nāʻālehu have opened a mobile clinic in an urgent effort to bring healthcare back to one of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Lala. Big Island Video News.

DOE announces plan for in-person learning for Ka‘u students. The state Department of Education on Wednesday announced its plan to resume in-person learning for students at Ka‘u High &Pahala Elementary School and Na‘alehu Elementary School as recovery efforts continue following Hurricane Lala. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now. 

DOE kicks off food distribution effort in Ka‘u. Over 850 students in Ka‘u have been out of school since damage from Hurricane Lala shuttered the campuses of Na‘alehu Elementary and Ka‘u High & Pahala Elementary. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui May Allow Even More Condos To Stay Vacation Rentals. Using sea level rise exposure for justification, two resolutions before the council could help more units avoid being phased out for long-term housing. Civil Beat.

New West Maui fire station costing at least $240K more due to U.S.-Canada trade war. A critically needed fire station in West Maui is facing extra costs of more than $240,000 due to tariffs in the mounting trade war launched by President Donald Trump between the United States and Canada. Maui Now.

Agriculture board upholds CRB import restrictions to Maui and Lānaʻi .  The state Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity rejected a proposal to relax import restrictions to Maui and Lānaʻi meant to keep out the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle, but is open to making changes to those restrictions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hana Highway bridge project to preserve historic character. Six of the 59 bridges on Hana Highway are scheduled for some construction and improvements with highway officials looking at rehabilitation and replacement alternatives. Maui News.

Kauai

Bernard Carvalho Jr. withdraws from Kauaʻi mayoral debate against Rapozo. The event will go on as planned Thursday night with only Mel Rapozo, current chair of the Kauaʻi County Council, participating. Kauai Now. Hawaii News Now. 

Pacific Missile Range Facility, state awarded $4.73M to support Kaua‘i projects to improve environment, readiness. The federal funding through the U.S. Department of Defense Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program will support the Navy facility and state Division of Forestry and Wildlife expansion of ecosystem restoration, wildfire resilience and watershed protection efforts, among several other projects, on the Garden Isle. Kauai Now.

KEMA reminds public to review potential refuge area list. With the 2026 Central Pacific hurricane season underway, the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) reminds residents and visitors that an updated potential refuge area list for Kaua‘i is available online at www.kauai.gov/KEMA. Garden Island.

Power outages more frequent, longer lasting; Schofield Army sergeant believed first banned under transgender policy; Dolly Parton's Oahu connections, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

It’s True: Power Outages Happening More Often In Hawai‘i. The power isn’t just going out more frequently. It’s staying out for longer. Statewide, HECO’s customers lost power an average of 2.6 times in 2004, a significant increase from five years ago when the average household or business lost power 1.5 times. Civil Beat. 

Trump OKs emergency declaration for Hawaii. President Donald Trump on Tuesday approved a disaster declaration for Hawaii, making federal assistance available to clean up and rebuild after the devastation from Hurricane Lala. Star-Advertiser. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Tropical Storm Iselle unlikely to pose a threat. A storm with the same name as a cyclone that wreaked havoc on the southeastern Big Island in August 2014 is unlikely to do the same this year, predict forecasters. Tribune-Herald.

OpenAI partners with Kamehameha Schools to expand AI access for educators. OpenAI on Wednesday announced a partnership with Kamehameha Schools to provide educators and staff with secure, institution-managed access to ChatGPT, along with training and support aimed at helping schools use artificial intelligence responsibly. Star-Advertiser.

Settlement spares Hawaii Job Corps center closures. Job Corps programs in Waimanalo and Makawao are celebrating an agreement with the U.S. Department of Labor that reverses the department’s 2025 decision to shut down 99 Job Corps centers around the country. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaii Supreme Court hears arguments in Tommy Waters’ eligibility. The Hawaii Supreme Court on Tuesday heard oral arguments but issued no formal ruling in two consolidated cases challenging the outcome of the Aug. 8 primary election for the City Council’s East Honolulu seat currently held by Tommy Waters. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.  KHON2. 

Schofield Army sergeant fights ‘tooth and nail’ to return after Trump’s trans military ban. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda has filed a congressional inquiry on behalf of an Army sergeant from Schofield Barracks. Sgt. Clara Davis believes she was the first soldier to be involuntarily discharged from the military because of President Donald Trump’s ban on transgender troops. Hawaii Public Radio.

Topa Financial Center still without power, set to fully reopen in September. Basic electricity returned to the Topa Financial Center over the weekend of Saturday, Aug. 22 — more than one month after a basement chiller leak damaged critical electrical equipment and forced the towers to shut down. KHON2.

Wilson Tunnel lights could remain out for weeks after Lala. Drivers could be without lights inside the Wilson Tunnel for another two to three weeks following damage from Tropical Storm Lala. Hawaii News Now.

HPD investigates flight attendant’s death in Waikiki. The Honolulu Police Department is investigating the death of a 50-year-old Southwest Airlines flight attendant from Oklahoma who was found dead outside her Waikiki hotel after falling from her 24th-floor room during a layover Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit Alleges Hawaiʻi Prison Staff Enabled Gang Attack. A lawsuit filed by the family of a Hawaiʻi prisoner who was severely beaten at Hālawa Correctional Facility early this year alleges prison staff allowed gang members to pass through security checkpoints to attack a protective custody inmate who was housed in another part of the facility. Civil Beat.

Dolly Parton ‘gave the world hope,’ honored for contributions in Hawaiʻi. The late legend owned a Portlock estate, opened a Hawaii Kai restaurant and raised wildfire relief funds. She had more than 40 years of connection to the islands. While in Hawaiʻi, she performed for local audiences and gave back to the community, the city said. KHON2. Hawaii News Now. 

Hawaii Island

Water cut off for thousands of cattle in the Big Island's Ka'u district. Hawaiʻi Ranchers Welcome Rain But Endure Weather Whiplash. Broken fences, destroyed roads, new gulches, dead cattle and lost land may soon be the price to pay for greener grass as climate change aggravates extreme weather events. Civil Beat. KITV4. 

Water Board updated about restoration of service in Ka‘u. At a meeting of the Water Board on Tuesday, Manager-Chief Engineer Keith Okamoto said the department has been using generators to power wells and booster stations in areas where electricity has not yet been reconnected and tankers to haul water to impacted communities. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii DOT: Washed-out sections of Kau’s Highway 11 repaired. The state Department of Transportation said repairs have been completed to the sections of Mamalahoa Highway in Kau that were washed out from Hurricane Lala’s torrential rains. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. 

Kilauea lava fountains reach 500 feet before episode 54 ends. Lava fountaining at Kilauea volcano’s Halemaumau crater ended tonight after earlier marking the 54th episode since the ongoing eruption began on Dec. 23, 2024. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now. 

Maui

Maui County to hold four community meetings on ferry service. Maui County’s Department of Transportation will hold four community meetings in September to gather public input on ferry service between Maui, Lanai and eventually Molokai. Maui News. Maui Now. 

Maui Council committee advances Haʻikū fire station project, 6-2. A Maui County Council committee voted 6-2 Monday to advance three bills clearing the way for construction of a long-awaited fire station in Haʻikū, over the objections of two council members who argued the project sits on land wrongfully taken from Native Hawaiians. Maui Now.

Update: Water service gradually returns following well outage in West Kuiaha and Awalau areas of Haʻikū. After a severe electrical issue caused a well outage Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026, Department of Water Supply (DWS) water service gradually returned to affected areas of Haʻikū and surrounding communities beginning Monday afternoon. Maui Now.

Maui boaters call for more security after Maalaea Harbor burglaries. Boats can be vulnerable to theft when left unattended, and boaters at Maalaea Harbor say burglaries have become a growing problem. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

U.S. Navy, NASA release final environmental impact statement for proposed use of state lands. The Navy’s proposal involves maintaining the use of 8,172 acres of state lands on Kauaʻi for operational continuity and sustaining military training, testing, and facility operations at the Pacific Missile Range Facility. Kauai Now.

Wilcox new interventional radiology suite blessed. The new suite will expand services for specialized, minimally invasive procedures so patients don’t have to leave the island, according to a Hawaii Pacific Health press release. Garden Island.