Justice Department sues Hawaii over voter data, Hawaii Island fire chief dies at 45, Honolulu council seeks 'open checkbook' online financial program, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii among latest states sued by Justice Department for voter data. The U.S. Justice Department filed federal lawsuits against Colorado, Hawaii, Massachusetts and Nevada on Thursday as part of its effort to collect detailed voting data and other election information across the country.  Associated Press.

Escalating climate disasters could make homes uninsurable, new report warns. Hawaii is facing a rapidly escalating insurance crisis driven by climate change, aging housing, and a sharp retreat by private insurers, according to a new report released by the Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law &Economic Justice. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi Is Reviving A Risky Play To Get Hawaiians Into Homes. Applicants to the Hawaiian Homelands waitlist are receiving leases to homes that aren’t yet built under a heavily criticized program that officials say has been revamped. Civil Beat.

Hawaii slips from ‘Top 10’ in women’s, children’s health. The United Health Foundation ranked Hawaii No. 12 this year in its “2025 Health of Women and Children Report,” down from No. 8 in the U.S. last year, after analyzing 125 measures of health and well- being that include access to care, chronic conditions, and depression, among other factors. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: The Silence Of The Senate: These Legislative Leaders Simply Aren't Talking. Mum’s the word for President Ron Kouchi and Ways and Means Chair Donovan Dela Cruz. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council bill seeks web-based ‘open checkbook’ into city finances. The leader of the Honolulu City Council is pushing legislation to require the use of real-time, web-based software to effectively shine a more public light on the annual, multibillion dollar budgets and day-to-day finances of the City &County of Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

With Hunger Growing On Oʻahu, A Push To Put Food Security To A Vote. The Charter Commission is holding a first hearing today of a proposal to create a food security fund using property tax. The proposal, put forward by the Hawaiʻi Foodbank and one of 276 before the commission, proposes directing an estimated $8 million or so a year to food-related programs around the island. Civil Beat.

Desalination plant on Oahu nearing construction after three decades of work. The Honolulu Board of Water Supply has pursued the technology — reverse osmosis — on and off for more than 30 years, and now appears closer than ever to building the first major desalination plant on Oahu to expand and diversify the island’s drinking water supply. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Fire Chief Kazuo Todd dies at 45: He is remembered as hardworking, hands-on public servant.  Todd was appointed fire chief in April 2021 and had served the Hawaii County Fire Department for 21 years. Tribune-Herald. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. Big Island Now.  Hawaii News Now.  KHON2.  KITV4. 

Honua Ola eyes new power purchase agreement with Hawaiian Electric. The president of Honua Ola Bioenergy — formerly Hu Honua Bioenergy — said there is “an agreement in principle” for a third power purchase agreement for Honua Ola to sell electricity for Big Island consumers to Hawaiian Electric Co. Tribune-Herald.

Islandwide drought lingers despite some rain. The entire Big Island remains in drought, despite higher rainfall totals the last couple of months and climatologists having declared weak La Nina conditions in equatorial Pacific waters. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui set for final vote on rental conversions. Maui Mayor Richard Bissen’s Bill 9 that would phase out more than 6,000 short-term vacation rentals and convert them into long-term housing heads for a final vote today before the County Council. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

On-demand microtransit ride service could replace least-popular Maui Bus routes. Two Central and Upcountry Maui Bus routes with the lowest ridership in the system could be replaced by an on-demand, flexible ride service that works like a hybrid between Uber and a public bus with the same public bus rates.  Maui Now.

Lahaina Harbor begins phased reopening, a key milestone after 2023 fires. More than two years into the rebuilding of the picturesque community that once served as the seat of the Hawaiian Kingdom, this week’s soft opening of Lahaina Harbor will mark a significant milestone in the town’s recovery from the deadly August 2023 wildfire. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Christmas Parade Float Sparks Uproar Over ‘Demonic’ Theme. The costumed Krampus characters were intended to represent another culture’s holiday tradition. Some left feeling scared, others were amused. Civil Beat.

Immigration advocates push for legislative protections, Hawaii National Guard gears up major crowd control unit, HECO sues Par Hawaii over damaged turbines, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

As Arrests In Hawaiʻi Climb, Immigration Advocates Push Protective Legislation. Advocates seek to limit cooperation with ICE and to rein in the agency’s actions amid a major increase in immigration arrests locally. The table of immigration-related bills in the Hawaiʻi Legislature’s next session was at least partially set Monday, as advocates described measures they want to see introduced and painted a picture of legal rights being trampled under the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. 

Most arrests for violating immigration in Hawaii unwarranted, attorneys say. The majority of people arrested by federal agents for violations of U.S. immigration law in Hawaii have no criminal record despite assertions by federal officials, immigration attorneys told a state lawmaker Monday. Through July, 149 people have been arrested for violations of immigration law in Hawaii, a 380% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the Deportation Data Project. Star-Advertiser. 

'It's not new': Hawaiʻi National Guard on directive to prepare crowd control unit. This fall, each state's National Guard received a federal directive to assemble 500 troops for a "quick reaction force" to be deployed to address civil disturbance and crowd control. The order requires the teams to be ready to respond at the start of next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Advocates urge state lawmakers to protect LGBTQ+ community this legislative session. Establishing a shield law to protect gender-affirming care, expanding gender markers on birth certificates, and mandating an accurate count of hate crimes in Hawaiʻi are some of the top priorities advocates are urging lawmakers to focus on during the 2026 legislative session. Hawaii Public Radio.

State deploys $18 million for clean energy access. The Hawai‘i Green Infrastructure Authority is making $18 million in new loan capital available to help nonprofits, small businesses and low- and moderate- income households pay for clean energy upgrades as the state works to expand access to solar and reduce electricity costs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Sues Par Hawaiʻi Claiming Faulty Fuel Ruined Turbines. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. is suing the operator of Hawaiʻi’s only petroleum refinery, alleging that substandard fuel produced by Par Hawaiʻi Refining LLC caused millions of dollars in damage to power plants on the Big Island and Kauaʻi last year. Civil Beat.

Alexander & Baldwin leaves stock market after major sale. Alexander & Baldwin agrees to go private in $2.3B deal. Alexander & Baldwin — the largest owner of grocery‑­anchored neighborhood shopping centers in Hawaii, where it has a 155‑year history — has agreed to go private in a $2.3 billion merger, the largest commercial real estate portfolio deal in state history. Star-Advertiser. KHON2. 

Oahu

Honolulu City Council adopts transparency bills for unspent funds. The Council on Wednesday voted 8–0, with Council member Matt Weyer absent, to separately approve Bills 64 and 65, requiring the city to offer a greater degree of financial reporting over lapsed, or unspent, funds from past budget cycles. Star-Advertiser.

Blackened Canteen ceremony rekindles WWII peace offering. American and Japanese officials gathered in Pearl Harbor on Monday as commemorations of the anniversary of the Dec. 7, 1941, attack continued. Star-Advertiser.

Fireworks Firm Tied To Illegal Hawaiʻi Shipment OK’d To Sell Firecrackers. The Honolulu Fire Department says it has no legal basis to deny the company a permit to sell firecrackers despite its involvement in a shipment of $2.7 million of illegal fireworks seized by the Coast Guard in 2022. Civil Beat.

Waianae Police Station undergoes $1.4M in upgrades. The Honolulu Department of Design and Construction on Monday began a more than $1.4 million partial second-floor interior upgrade at the Waianae Police Station, city officials say. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Land deal to protect Maunawili Valley serves as a model for other communities. A deal is underway to protect over 1,000 acres in Maunawili Valley, located in the ahupuaʻa of Kailua. The area was historically favored by aliʻi for its productive kalo lands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian macadamia nuts recalled after potential salmonella contamination. American Nuts LLC has issued a voluntary recall of Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Co. Baking Nuts sold at Costco’s Hawaii Kai warehouse due to potential salmonella contamination. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

U.S. Geological Survey searches for new monitoring site after Kīlauea summit camera buried in volcanic debris. As Episode 38 of the ongoing eruption sent fountains of lava and a plume more than 20,000 feet into the air, the widely viewed V3 summit camera was buried under roughly 50 feet of volcanic debris. Big Island Now.

New statewide crime dashboard launched. Reports of criminal offenses were up almost 6% in Hawaii County in 2024 over 2023. That’s according to the Hawaii Crime Dashboard — a new online platform launched and maintained by the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General.  Tribune-Herald.

New traffic signal to be activated on Waikoloa Road. A new traffic signal at the intersection of Waikoloa Road and Paniolo Avenue/Pua Melia Street in Waikoloa Village will start operating at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 15. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County opens registration for free disaster training for community members. The CERT program, which combines online coursework with hands-on instruction, teaches basic disaster skills including first aid and triage, search and rescue, and fire safety and suppression. Big Island Now.

Maui 

First 100 days: Ethics executive director reports surge in inquiries, calls for staff expansion. The newly established Office of the Board of Ethics is fielding a significantly higher volume of inquiries than in previous years, prompting the executive director to call for expanded staffing in the upcoming fiscal 2026-27 budget. Maui Now.

EIS preparation notice filed for Hoʻonani Village mixed-use project. Developers have filed an environmental impact statement preparation notice for the Hoʻonani Village mixed-use development proposed for 1,600 residential apartment units near the old Puʻunēnē sugar mill on 166 acres off of Hansen Road in Kahului.​ Maui Now.

Court documents reveal alleged motive in slaying of Maui police officer. Maui police Officer Suzanne O died in the line of duty as she and other officers were responding to a terroristic threatening call in Paia on Aug. 15. Hawaii News Now.

Maui’s Waiehu Beach Road getting new speed tables, raised crosswalks. DOT said four speed tables will be installed on Waiehu between Kukona Place and Lower Waiehu Beach Road. Additionally, three raised crosswalks will be installed at the intersections of Kukona Place, Kaikoo Street and Kainalu Place. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Rubbish pickup in Kalāheo delayed due to staffing shortages. Residential trash pickup in Kalāheo will be delayed because of staffing shortages, Kauaʻi County officials announced Monday.  Kauai Now.

The Kauai Marathon distributes $37,500. Awards of $12,500 each were presented to the Koloa Early Learning School, that will soon celebrate its 40th anniversary; the Kauai Habitat for Humanity, which is involved in constructing affordable housing for Kauai families; and Ho‘omalu Ke Kai, whose coral restoration efforts recently enjoyed a successful coral rescue off Ahukini Landing State Park. Garden Island.

 

Charger shortage stymies EV use, immigration arrests surge, Kamehameha Schools sells prime Waikiki land, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

EV Use Has Skyrocketed In Hawaiʻi. Why Is It So Hard To Find A Charger? Electric vehicle registrations — which number about 40,000 cars statewide, compared to about one million gas-powered vehicle registrations — have doubled in the past three years and quadrupled in the past six, according to the state’s most recently published data from October. A snapshot from the U.S. Department of Energy shows just under 1,000 public chargers statewide, up from about 600 in 2019. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers are urged to act on clean energy cuts. Leah Laramee, coordinator of the Hawai‘i Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, told Sens. Karl Rhoads and Mike Gabbard at the Nov. 3 briefing that it would be incredibly helpful if more local tax credits were made available for renewable energy and climate change impact mitigation projects in the face of federal cutbacks driven by the administration of President Donald Trump. Star-Advertiser.

Profit and debt will fund $2B in Hawaiian Electric ventures. Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., which owns Hawaiian Electric Co. serving Oahu, Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai and Lanai, anticipates investing between $1.75 billion and $2.35 billion from 2026 through 2028 in capital improvement projects funded by retained profits and recently issued debt. Star-Advertiser.

State seeks applicants to Public Utilities Commission. Gov. Josh Green announced that Public Utilities Commission Chair Leodoloff “Leo” Asuncion Jr. will be leaving his post on Nov. 17.  Kauai Now.

OHA: Give Native Hawaiians A ‘Meaningful Voice’ In Military Land Negotiations. The governor’s office is convening a Native Hawaiian advisory group to participate in the negotiation process, but the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is seeking a larger role.  Civil Beat.

Immigration arrests surge in Hawaii as federal agents target courthouses. Public arrests and large raids documented on social media are just the tip of the iceberg, according to statistics from the Deportation Data Project. There were 153 arrests in the first half of the year, compared to only 41 in the same period last year, and already far ahead of last year’s total of 89. Hawaii News Now.

Confusion over SNAP benefits for nearly 170,000 Hawaii residents. With the back and forth over SNAP benefits, many of Hawaii's EBT recipients still don't know whether or not they'll be able to put food on the table. KITV4.

Probe urged for lawmaker in corruption case. The speaker of the state House of Representatives is asking law enforcement officials to investigate allegations that an unnamed state lawmaker accepted $35,000 in campaign contributions in January 2022 during a federal public corruption probe. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Kamehameha Schools cashes in on Waikiki hotel land. Kamehameha Schools  reported selling the 10.3-acre parcel under the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki for $510 million to Japan-­based commercial real estate firm Daisho Co. The sale closed Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council approves pay raise for police. On Tuesday, Nov. 4, the Honolulu City Council unanimously approved a new collective bargaining agreement that would grant officers a 27% raise through 2029. Hawaii News Now.

Community groups on the same side against Oʻahu North Shore gondola project. The Kamananui Agribusiness project wants to attract daily visitors for sight seeing and cultural education on the slopes of Mount Ka‘ala. The property was bought from the Dole Pineapple Company in 2017 and is now managed by Kaukonahua Ranch LLC, which received a conditional use permit in 2019. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ewa HOA Hawaiian flag policy sparks controversy. A policy in the Ewa by Gentry Community Association says that the current guidelines only permit the display of the American Flag, meaning all others, including the Hawaiian State flag, are not allowed. KHON2.

Increased shearwater fallout on Oahu ahead of peak season. Rescue centers are reporting unusually high numbers of disoriented native shearwaters crashing into the ground. The peak fallout season has not started yet, but experts say keeping your lights out could save lives. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Rain helps firefighters battle Mana Road blaze. Firefighters battling a wildfire that started Friday on Mana Road received an assist Sunday from Mother Nature. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Construction on the Keaʻau-Mountain View Public Library begins this week. The 13,885-square-foot Keaʻau-Mountain View Public Library is intended to replace the two public libraries serving upper Puna, which are attached to Keaʻau Middle School and Mountain View Elementary School. Big Island Now.

Lead contamination at Waiakea Intermediate raises concerns, disrupts meal preparations. Cafeteria meals for Waiakea Intermediate School students and staff are being prepared at Waiakea High School after the discovery of lead contamination in water from taps in the intermediate school’s kitchen. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Three people nominated to fill open seat on Maui County Council. The names of the three people who’ve been nominated are Virgilio “Leo” R. Agcolicol, Kelson Kauanoe Batangan and Carol Lee Kamekona. Maui News.

Maui Is Deploying Water Tanks Around The Island To Help Fight Fires. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources recently installed a 30,000-gallon storage tank and 10,000-gallon helicopter dip tank in South Maui — the first of several to be placed around the island to improve firefighting capabilities, according to Lance DeSilva, the department’s forest management supervisor on Maui. Civil Beat.

Where open land meets development, Maui residents urged to view risks like a firefighter. Wildfire experts were on Maui last month to train with local firefighters and educate community members about what it takes to battle blazes in the wildland-urban interface, which is the area where homes and open land meet. This was the case in the destructive August 2023 wildfires in Lahaina and Upcountry.  Maui Now.

Marine Institute to lead Hawaiian monk seal response program on Maui. The Marine Institute at Maui Ocean Center (MOCMI) is partnering with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to strengthen efforts to protect endangered Hawaiian monk seals on Maui. Maui Now. Maui News. 

Kauai

What a Kauaʻi County Councilmember witnessed at a recent immigration raid. Raids by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations were carried out across Kauaʻi last Wednesday. County Councilmember Fern Holland was on the scene at 4 a.m. when law enforcement showed up at one house because she happened to live across the street. Hawaii Public Radio.

Have you been hungry? The County of Kauai, including the County Council, joined “the hardworking advocates focusing on homelessness solutions,” and recognized Nov. 16-22 as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.  Garden Island.

Booking.com fights $20M Hawaii GET tax bill, Native Hawaiian convention sparks federal recognition debate, $1B budget for Honolulu Rail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Online travel agency could owe state $20 million in GET. Lawsuit by Booking.com against the Hawai‘i Department of Taxation going to state Supreme Court. The Hawai‘i Supreme Court will hear a case that could leave online travel agency Booking.com owing the state nearly $20 million in taxes. Aloha State Daily.

Pacific climate hub shutters due to lapse in federal funding. After waiting months for federal funding to materialize, the Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center had to officially close its doors last week. For over a decade, the center supported local researchers working to understand Hawaiʻi's climate — and how it's changing.  Hawaii Public Radio.

Can Hawaiʻi Turn Around Another Deadly Year On The Roads? An executive order emphasizes enforcement and safety education, but data shows infrastructure is also a major factor in many fatal accidents. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian Convention held on tribal lands sparks federal recognition debate.  More than 1,300 attendees from 37 states and countries are participating in the Hawaiian Council’s 24th annual convention, which is the largest annual gathering of Native Hawaiians. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Lawmakers to consider compassionate release measures for Hawaiʻi inmates. Hawaiʻi is the only state in the nation that does not have a compassionate release law, which allows inmates to be considered for release from prison for medical reasons. Hawaii Public Radio.

Interest-free payment options available to electric customers affected by government shutdown. Hawaiian Electric customers experiencing financial hardship because of the ongoing federal government shutdown might be eligible for interest-free monthly installment plans for their electric bills. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Half Of UH Students Struggle To Get Food. For students at the University of Hawaiʻi, skipping a meal or going hungry isn’t uncommon, according to new data. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi Libraries Mark Banned Books Week With “Freedom To Read” Initiative. The state librarian says the new guidelines help people avoid any confusion that the library is banning books. Civil Beat. Big Island Video News. 

Leadership program graduates most diverse class. The most diverse graduating class in the Hawaii Carpenters Union’s fourth group — inspired by one another’s commitments to their communities — included two sitting Honolulu City Council members, a Maui County Council member and others who may want to pursue their own political careers or just advocate for their causes. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

HART sees $1.07B total budget next year. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2027 will total nearly $1.07 billion — 9.5% above the agency’s current total budget of $968.3 million adopted in June, rail officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu police targeting game rooms, keeping them closed. Honolulu police are cracking down on illegal game rooms with a new strategy that is showing big results. KHON2.

City rolls out tool to help residents calculate sewer bills. Officials with Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services are urging residents to use less water to save on sewer bills. Hawaii News Now.

Man Shot By Police Was Undergoing Court-Ordered Mental Health Treatment. Sonny Siofele, who was shot by Honolulu police outside The Queen’s Medical Center last week, had struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues for decades, according to a July report from his probation officer. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Council weighs in on ICE. A resolution affirming Hawaii County’s commitment to constitutional rights, multiculturalism and protections for immigrants advanced Tuesday after the County Council’s Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs voted unanimously to send the measure to the full council. Tribune-Herald.

Proposed Hilo housing project gets favorable recommendation. After years of delays, the Kaiaulu O Kapiolani affordable housing project in Hilo received a crucial boost Tuesday when the Hawaii County Council’s Legislative Approvals and Acquisitions Committee recommended adoption of a five-year extension — pushing the construction deadline to March 2031 — to keep the development on track. Tribune-Herald.

Mumps case prompts closure of Kailua-Kona park for sanitation. The County of Hawaii Department of Parks and Recreation will temporarily close the park in Kailua-Kona to sanitize contact surfaces on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4. 

Maui

Maui County Council to hear presentations from experts on climate change. The Maui County Agriculture, Diversification, Environment and Public Transportation Committee will hear three presentations on climate change at 9 a.m. Thursday in the Council Chamber and online, according to Maui County councilmember and committee chair Gabe Johnson. Maui News. Maui Now. 

Maui County Board of Ethics meeting canceled. Citing technical issues with the distribution of the meeting’s agenda, the Maui County Board of Ethics has canceled its meeting scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8. Maui News.

Kauai

Chan Zuckerberg donates $1 million to support education, housing, culture on Kauaʻi. The Chan Zuckerberg Kaua‘i Community Fund recently donated $1 million in unrestricted funding to 25 nonprofits across the Garden Isle. Kauai Now.

Kaua‘i Humane Society welcomes new chief executive officer into the pack. Kaua‘i Humane Society announces the appointment of Susan Rhee as its new chief executive officer. Kauai Now.

Hawaii issues own vaccine guidance ahead of federal plans, Kaiser Permanente workers mull strike, Hawaii County unveils vacation rental study, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiʻi And Western States Issue Vaccine Guidance Ahead of CDC Meeting. California, Oregon, Washington and Hawai‘i formed a health alliance earlier this month and published vaccine recommendations the day before a federal panel was set to take up the issue. Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser.  Associated Press.

Hawaiʻi Supreme Court: OHA Trustees Bound By State Ethics Code. The court also upheld dozens of charges against former Trustee Rowena Akana. Civil Beat.

Erosion of democratic norms focus of state Senate committee informational briefing. Committee members will receive an informational briefing beginning at 10 a.m. on Sept. 18 from Colin Moore, a University of Hawaiʻi Economic Research Organization professor. Big Island Now.

Kaiser Permanente hospital workers in Hawaiʻi vote on strike authorization. More than 1,900 Kaiser Permanente hospital workers in Hawai‘i have begun casting ballots in a strike authorization vote this week, while tensions rise over ongoing contract negotiations. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now.  KHON2. 

Here's what you need to know about a new fee on your HECO bill. A small portion of Hawaiian Electric customers' bills will now be put in a new state trust fund to pay developers of future renewable energy projects. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi High School Seniors Could Face Major Spike In Graduation Costs. A proposal from the state education department would raise the maximum cost for caps and gowns from $25 to $125. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Overtime Pumps Up Pensions, Costs Taxpayers Hundreds Of Millions.  Public pension spiking fueled by Honolulu employee overtime has cost taxpayers a quarter of a billion dollars over the last seven years, based on department-by-department data the county provided. Civil Beat. KITV4.

City sells $217M in bonds to upgrade wastewater system. The city asserts bond proceeds will finance the costs of certain improvements, including design and construction of projects that rehabilitate Oahu’s existing wastewater system, expand system capacity and upgrade treatment processes. Star-Advertiser.

HPD moves forward with plans for school resource officers at three high school campuses. Honolulu’s interim police chief, Rade Vanic, wants to start a pilot program that would result in law enforcement officers being on campus in some schools. Hawaii News Now.

How Chaminade and HPU are handling the latest federal DOE cuts. Administrators  are still trying to get their arms around the impact of losing what’s known as Title III grants, which is federal money set aside for minority serving institutions like UH, Chaminade University and Hawaiʻi Pacific University. Hawaii Public Radio.

Living in Hawaiʻi just got even pricier: 3 new reports. To live comfortably in 2025, a Honolulu household needs between $225,751 and $280,000 a year, respectively. That amount covers basic needs, discretionary spending, long-term savings and taxes. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

STVRs study unveiled: Report to County Council highlights economic, social impacts. A new study commissioned by the Hawaii County Council is shedding light on the substantial economic and social impact of short-term vacation rentals across Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News. 

Council mulls another pedestrian safety bill. Bill 82, which passed out of the council’s Policy Committee on Public Works and Mass Transit with a 7-0 vote, will now be considered by the full council. It serves as a follow-up to a previously vetoed measure, offering revisions in response to legal concerns. Tribune-Herald.

High bacteria count notification issued for Lehia Beach Park in Leleiwi. Hawai‘i Department of Health is retesting waters at Lehia Beach Park in Hilo’s Leleiwi community, located on the easternmost edge of the East Hawai‘i town, after bacteria levels of 288 per 100 mL were detected during recent routine beach monitoring. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui County mulls buying water system amid drought. Maui County is open to acquiring water system infrastructure from a company that can’t meet demand amid a historic drought, though it’s unclear how such an acquisition might help affected customers suing the system’s owner. Star-Advertiser.

State hopes change in course will salvage Sentry golf tournament on Maui.  State officials say they still hope to have the Sentry golf tournament played in Hawaii after the PGA said it could not be played at the Kapalua course that has hosted it for years. Hawaii News Now.

Open house for temporary disposal site restoration plan Sept. 20.  There will be an open house regarding plans for the temporary wildfire debris storage site at Olowalu from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 20 at the Lahaina Resource Center. Maui News.

Maui Council green-lights fast-track affordable housing at Kahului Civic Center site. Located on 3.4 acres of state land at 153 West Kaʻahumanu Ave., the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corp. project, developed by EAH Housing, will feature two six-story buildings with 303 residential units and 298 parking stalls. Maui Now.

Poor Protection Of Molokaʻi From Invasive Beetles Called An Emergency. The loss of plants to invasive species would threaten the island’s food security and calls for more serious action. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Kaua’i County holding series of community meetings about future of island’s water. The sessions come after a recently completed Water Systems Investment Plan – a comprehensive island-wide water system study aimed at improving Kauaʻi’s water infrastructure. Kauai Now.

KIUC warns of false claims by solar PV companies on island. The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative said it has received reports from members saying that solar PV and battery system salespersons have provided them with inaccurate or incomplete information on how solar installations interact with KIUC’s electric grid, rates and programs. Star-Advertiser.

 

Green releases intent-to-veto list, state Republicans visit White House, money comng to rail-impacted business, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Governor considers vetoing parts of the budget, plus housing and tax credit bills. Also making the list are bills stipulating the labeling of Māmaki tea and making as yet unidentified line-item reductions to the state budget.  Civil Beat. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now.

Full Intent-To-Veto List. Governor's Press Release.

State Republican lawmakers meet with the White House, federal officials. Hawaii state senators Brenton Awa and Samantha DeCorte, and state Rep. Diamond Garcia spoke to officials from the federal departments of the interior and defense to find ways to reduce the Native Hawaiian housing list.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s math teaching deemed ‘unacceptable’. A nonpartisan national council that analyzed the quality of the nation’s math teaching found Hawaii to be one of seven states with an “unacceptable” rating for math education. Tribune-Herald.

Ridding state Capitol of water leaks nears completion. Keeping rainwater out of subterranean spaces of the state Capitol has been a big undertaking that now is within sight of completion by September after some unexpected extra effort. Star-Advertiser.

Jarrett Keohokalole Talks About HECO 'Sell-Out' And Condo Insurance Rescue. The Senate Commerce chair was in the middle of some of the Legislature’s most contentious issues. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s SNAP recipients at risk of losing nutritional benefits. Around 158,000 of Hawaii’s low-income seniors, families and single adults could lose essential nutrition education and access to local produce by the end of September if the U.S. House- proposed tax bill, which would cut an estimated $300 billion from the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is approved by the Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Regulators say no to time-of-use rates for HECO customers. The Public Utilities Commission has determined that an experimental electricity rate program isn't ready for a full roll-out to Hawaiian Electric customers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii support for LGBTQ+ community is loud and proud. Hawaii has generally veered progressive in its support of the LGBTQ+ community. The state was one of the first to legalize same-sex relationships and protect against discrimination in housing and employment. Star-Advertiser.

New Lawsuit Raises Concerns Over Labeling Of ‘Reef-Safe’ Sunscreens. Experts say labeling sunscreens “reef-friendly” is deceptive since even chemicals that aren’t banned can do widespread damage to coral reefs. Civil Beat.

4 Hawaii beaches land in Dr. Beach’s top 10. Wailea Beach on Maui and Poipu Beach on Kauai were ranked No. 2 and 3, respectively. Kaunaoa Beach on Hawaii island, also known as Mauna Kea Beach, captured the eighth spot followed by La­ni­kai Beach on Oahu at No. 9 on the list compiled by Florida International University professor Stephen Leatherman. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Grant changes approved for rail-affected businesses. The Honolulu City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to pass Bill 31, which increases the maximum allowed annual revenue for affected small businesses to $1 million, up from $750,000, under the city’s transit construction mitigation fund, or TCMF, grant program. Star-Advertiser.

Chinatown rail station design comes into focus. The public will soon get a close look at renderings for the proposed Chinatown rail station, one of the final six planned stations along an overhead “guideway” rail track that are expected to be cheaper to build and operate, look different and attract local subcontractors to do the work. Star-Advertiser.

DAGS takes on convention center project despite ‘aggressive’ timetable. The state Department of Accounting and General Services has pledged to help the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority through a leadership change that put $100 million worth of Hawai‘i Convention Center repairs at risk. Star-Advertiser.

Police Set Out To Curb Violence On West Oʻahu. Traffic Citations Soared. Honolulu police said they stepped up traffic enforcement on the Westside last summer to help them find criminals and guns. Some residents said they felt harassed.  Civil Beat.

City passes set of bills to aid crack down on illegal game rooms. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi plans to sign three bills that will further the crack down on illegal gambling. The bills were passed on Wednesday by the city council.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Big Island council passes $950M budget but denies $2M for food security. On Thursday, the council passed both the county’s operating and capital improvement budgets through their final readings. Hawaii Public Radio.

Council votes to protect Parks and Rec staffers: Some are targeted in lawsuit over dead tree-trimmer. The Hawaii County Council on Thursday voted to indemnify against liability former Department of Parks and Recreation director Maurice Messina, former deputy director Michelle Hiraishi and four current or former Parks and Rec employees in a wrongful death lawsuit related to a fatal workplace incident more than four years ago. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi To Settle Teacher’s Claim He Was Fired Over False Abuse Allegation. Hawaiʻi is set to pay $140,000 to settle a lawsuit filed by a former Big Island teacher who claims the state education department defamed and wrongfully fired him in 2019 after he was accused of child abuse.  Civil Beat.

One-Way Traffic On Aliʻi Drive To Revert Back To Two-Way Pattern. During the 30-day trial period, community feedback returning the traffic pattern to its original two-way flow. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui County Council to hear response to vacation rentals conversion today. A key Maui County Council committee will hear testimony today on Mayor Richard Bissen’s proposal to convert less than half of Maui’s short-term vacation rentals into long-term housing for local residents that’s expected to trigger a loss of $60 million in tax revenue while lowering sales and rental prices. Star-Advertiser. Maui Now. 

Maui Council approves staff pay raises after contentious debate on transparency. After a tense 90-minute debate, the Maui County Council voted 6-3 on Friday to give its staff a 15% pay increase, plus an additional 5% for experience- and performance-based “step” increases. Maui Now.

Maui marketing campaign kicks off. A $6 million Maui emergency marketing campaign is finally underway some four months after Gov. Josh Green released the funds to help counter the continued softness from the August 2023 Maui wildfires and the expected downturn due to the wildfires in Los Angeles, Hawaii’s top tourism source market. Star-Advertiser.

More oversight added to preserve native rights. State Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Carmen Hulu Lindsey said a new position is being created to serve as an advocate for protecting traditional and customary rights on Maui after hearing complaints about the lack of protection of Hawaiian burials. Maui News.

Kauai

Postal Service is hosting open houses in Kauaʻi this month. The community will have the opportunity to learn about assistant rural carrier and rural carrier associate positions currently available at facilities in Kauaʻi with two open house events in Līhuʻe. Kauai Now.

Cochran collects per diem while missing House sessions, Honolulu council mulls $5.4B budget, astronomy latest victim of federal cuts, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

West Maui Rep. Cochran absent from 85% of House floor sessions, still collected nearly $23,000 in per diem. West Maui state Rep. Elle Cochran missed 51 of 60 House floor sessions — an 85% absence rate — during the 2025 legislative session while collecting $22,725 in per diem payments intended to cover off-island living expenses, according to House records. Maui Now.

Hawaiʻi Astronomy Stares Into The Abyss Of Federal Cuts. In addition to the TMT, proposed federal funding cuts threaten the world-class Keck and Gemini observatories, the solar telescope on Maui and UH’s Institute for Astronomy. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric seeks approval for wildfire safety work. Typical residential customers of the state’s largest utility could see their monthly bill rise between $1 and $5.50 to cover costs of an expanded three-year wildfire safety plan. Star-Advertiser. Maui News.  Maui Now. 

New bill could offer insurance relief for Hawai‘i condo and homeowners. Senate Bill 1044 expands the authority of the Hawai‘i Property Insurance Association (HPIA), allowing it to temporarily provide coverage for high-risk properties that are otherwise uninsurable. KITV4.

Community Solar Farms Meant To Save Money Fail To Gain Traction In Hawaiʻi. Making solar available to middle- and low-income residents was intended to help meet the state’s 2045 all-renewable energy goal. Now one developer says: “We just want out.” Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council to review city’s proposed $5.14 billion budget for approval. Submitted in early March, the mayor’s budget — which proposes a $3.93 billion operating budget and a $1.21 billion capital improvement program that, if adopted, begins July 1 — touted it would cover costs without raising real property tax rates, according to city officials. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor wants authority to hire, fire police chief. Only two of the seven members of the commission responsible for hiring and firing the Honolulu police chief were told by Mayor Rick Blangiardi that he wants to bring in Hawaii island’s police chief to replace a retiring Opens in a new tab Arthur “Joe” Logan. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. 

Honolulu Mayor: With AI, Building Permit Office Will Speed Up By Year’s End. Applicants should start seeing a difference soon, the mayor says, thanks to new technology. Civil Beat.

Ka Makana Alii standoff ends in immigrant’s arrest. An immigrant allegedly living in the country illegally and wanted on a federal arrest warrant refused orders to leave his car in Kapolei Monday, forcing agents to break a window to arrest him. Star-Advertiser.

Gondola, zipline project draws backlash from North Shore community. The project dubbed Kamananui, which aims to attract nearly 1,700 daily visitors is advertised as sight-seeing and culturally educational attraction operated by Kaukonahua Ranch. Hawaii News Now.

Schofield soldier Pfc. Dewayne Arthur Johnson confesses to killing his wife. The mystery of what happened to Mischa Mabeline Kaalohilani Johnson, a pregnant 19-year-old Army spouse who was reported missing by her 28-year-old soldier husband on Aug. 1, has finally been solved. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.  KITV4.

State ag inspectors capture live ball python from Kaimuki backyard. State agriculture officials said a live, three-and-a-half-foot snake was captured in the backyard of a Kaimuki home on Sunday night. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Federal wildlife officials defend monk seal pup procedure by embattled state worker. Dramatic video of two women working with a federal wildlife response team cutting the umbilical cord of a newborn monk seal on Oahu’s North Shore.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Milestone agreement to strengthen health care in West Hawaiʻi. Health care delivery will be transformed in West Hawaiʻi with a milestone collaboration between Hawaiʻi Health Systems Corporation West Hawaiʻi Region, The Queen’s Health Systems, and Aliʻi Health Center as they enter a shared workforce agreement. Big Island Now.

New Speed Limit For Stretch Of Highway In South Kona. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation says the speed limit will be lowered to 35 mph on the highway between the Honaunau Elementary School Driveway and vicinity of Captain Cook Village Road.  Big Island Video News.

DLNR says injury to endangered Hawaiian hawk was suspicious. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources said that last month, a Mountain View resident found an emaciated Hawaiian hawk, or ʻio, on her property with the upper portion of its beak missing. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News. 

Maui

$1.55B budget comes with adjusted property tax rates. Property tax rates in Maui County will be going up for short-term rentals and non-owner occupied dwellings and down for owner-occupied homes as part of the county’s $1.55 billion budget. Maui News. Hawaii News Now. 

$6M Maui marketing campaign aims to drive travel demand, restore visitor confidence. A coordinated statewide effort to support Maui’s tourism recovery is now underway, with the launch of a $6 million Maui Emergency Marketing Campaign funded by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority.  Maui Now.

Cesspool removals in demand: UH Maui College offers new certificate to help address need. With state legislation mandating that tens of thousands of cesspools need to be removed and replaced by 2050, Hawaiʻi Community College and UH Maui College have a new onsite wastewater treatment systems specialist certificate. Maui News.

Kauai

Two people rescued off Kaua‘i trails over the weekend. Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel conducted two rescues on Sunday in separate incidents at Kalalau Beach and Waipo‘o Falls Trail in Kōke‘e. Kauai Now.

State fire marshal named, Honolulu police chief resigns, solvent detected in drinking water at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gets first state fire marshal in 46 years. A state council has appointed Dori Booth to the position leading an office resurrected by state lawmakers in 2024, marking a historic return to a centralized approach to statewide fire protection in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio. Big Island Now. 

Pride flags fly over state Capitol for first time to mark milestone. Gov. Josh Green has declared June as Pride Month and on Monday, for the first time, flew a Pride flag over the state Capitol, where it will remain for the entire month. Star-Advertiser. KITV4. 

Hawaiian Electric unveils $350M wildfire safety plan that could raise customer bills.  Hawaiian Electric has released a more detailed version of its three-year wildfire safety strategy, aimed at reducing wildfire risks and strengthening grid resilience across the state, with a particular focus on Maui, which it identifies as the area of highest risk. KHON2.

Dirty beaches in Hawaii. Two beaches on Oʻahu and Kauaʻi topped the list of shorelines across the country that are top-priority “bacteria hot spots,” according to a new report by the Surfrider Foundation.More than 90% of the water samples collected in 2024 from the popular swim spots — Kahaluʻu on Oʻahu and Waikomo Stream at Kōloa Landing on Kauaʻi — had bacteria levels above state health standards.  Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Police Department looking for its fourth chief in eight years.  The Honolulu Police Department is looking for its fourth police chief in eight years after Arthur “Joe” Logan decided to retire June 30. Logan’s departure was announced Monday by Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, who recommended Hawaii Police Chief Ben Moszkowicz to serve as interim chief starting July 16. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now.  KITV4. 

Mayor’s pick for interim HPD Chief says prior experience will help him lead. After Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi announced the retirement of Honolulu Police Department Chief Arthur “Joe” Logan, he offered his recommendation for interim chief: Benjamin Moszkowicz, who is currently serving as chief of the Hawaiʻi Police Department. KHON2.

Honolulu Council to review $11M in general obligation bonds for rail. Mayor Rick Blan­giardi’s administration has requested more funding to pay the city’s required annual subsidy toward the Hono­lulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s construction of the over-$10 billion rail line. Star-Advertiser.

State Housing Czar Demands Church Return Housing For Homeless Elderly. The state’s Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions is demanding that a Korean church either return or pay $20,000 apiece to buy 20 state-owned tiny housing units installed in their Honolulu parking lot. Civil Beat.

Government defends detention, deportation of military wife in Honolulu, noting ‘unusual activity’. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is defending the actions of its Customs and Border Protection officers who detained and deported an Australian woman who tried to visit her American husband, a U.S. Army lieutenant who is stationed in Honolulu, telling Hawaii News Now that Nicolle Saroukos was “traveling for more than just tourism.” Hawaii News Now.

Councilmember wants more waste diverted from West Oʻahu landfill. The City and County of Honolulu is waiting for the governor to decide whether he will let a state bill take effect that would further narrow site options for a new Oʻahu landfill. Hawaii Public Radio.

UH Mānoa earns top spot out of 21,000 universities. According to the 2025 Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings, UH Mānoa placed in the top 2.6% out of more than 21,000 worldwide universities. KHON2.

Volunteers install native plants for Kailua Beach dune restoration. Dozens of volunteers and community members placed 344 native plants along a stretch of Kailua Beach on Saturday to mitigate erosion at the frequented beach park. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Solvent detected in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park water. State health officials said low levels of a chemical used as an industrial solvent were detected in a water sample collected from the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park water system. Star-Advertiser. Big Island Video News.

Long-awaited pharmacy expansion at Kona Community Hospital complete. The expansion includes a new “compounding suite” that will allow KCH to safely prepare medications — including chemotherapy drugs — on site at the 94-bed hospital. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now.

Hawaiʻi County Community Survey Opens To Public. Residents can give feedback to the County through the online Laulima Community Survey, from now through July 31. Big Island Video News.

Prosecutors request UFC Hall-of-Famer BJ Penn undergo mental health exam. The former MMA fighter is accused of assaulting his 79-year-old mother over the Memorial Day weekend. He has repeatedly claimed in public social media posts that she and other family members have been replaced by “imposters.” Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui County Council poised to pass $1.55B budget. The Maui County Council is poised Tuesday to pass measures that reduce tax rates for owner-occupied homes giving many homeowners some relief. Maui News. Maui Now.

Maui Police Department offers gun buyback program. The Maui Police Department will host a gun buyback event at the Maui County Service Center 110 Alaihi St. in Kahului from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 14. Maui News.

Maui Police Department launches 2025 Citizen Survey. The Maui Police Department has launched its 2025 Citizen Survey in an ongoing effort to strengthen relationships with the community and improve public safety services.  Maui Now.

Kauai

33rd Taste of Hawaiʻi fundraiser showcases old and new culinary talent on Kauaʻi. About 1,000 people attended this year’s Taste of Hawai’i, showcasing 12 local musicians, 10 beverage vendors and more than 25 chefs and food vendors from restaurants around Kaua’i.  Kauai Now. Garden Island.

HECO edges toward creditworthiness with Legislature's help, state's two Job Corps centers to close, ACLU sues Honolulu police department over sober drivers' arrests, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

State Efforts To Shore Up HECO Gain Traction On Wall Street. Wall Street rewarded Hawaiian Electric Industries’ efforts to strengthen its financial profile by restoring the company to the edge of investment-grade creditworthiness for the first time since shortly after the August 2023 wildfire that killed 102 people and destroyed much of Lahaina. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Job Corps to close. The U.S. Department of Labor announced Thursday that Job Corps operations nationwide, which provide low-income youth and young adults with vocational training and schooling, will cease by June 30. There are two Job Corps centers in Hawaii among about 125 nationwide: one in Waimanalo on Oahu and one in Makawao on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

How physically present must state lawmakers be during session, if at all? Hawaiʻi's legislative session lasts 60 days, but there are no requirements for state lawmakers to be present. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

ACLU lawsuit alleges HPD made impaired driving arrests without having proof. A class-action lawsuit filed Thursday accuses the Honolulu Police Department of an “egregious and longstanding pattern and practice” of arresting people without probable cause or due process for allegedly driving under the influence. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. KHON2. KITV4. 

Developer Accused Of Campaign Fraud Allowed to Travel While Out On Bail. A wealthy Honolulu real estate executive accused of making fraudulent campaign contributions will be allowed to travel outside Hawaiʻi for business while out on bail and as his case plays out in court.  Timothy Lee, chief executive officer of JL Capital, was indicted in February with nine counts of making false name contributions to candidates in Honolulu’s 2020 mayoral election. Civil Beat. 

Agency warns against illegal construction activity. The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting urges the public to take care when hiring contractors, designers, architects and engineers for building projects. Star-Advertiser.

Violent video brings calls for labor talks over prison staff. Public safety advocates say a violent video from inside the walls of Oahu Community Correctional Center is evidence of a rising crisis in Hawaii’s correctional facilities. Hawaii News Now.

Outreach team provides medical, social services to homeless in Waikīkī. The joint effort includes members of the Waikīkī Business Improvement District and its Safe and Sound Waikīkī program, the Institute for Human Services, Waikīkī Health and other business partners. They walk Waikīkī every Wednesday, meeting people where they're at. Aloha State Daily.

Kamehameha Schools still figuring out future of Hawai‘i Kai properties. Despite residents' concerns about hypothetical high-rises, decisions about three Haha‘ione parcels are still pending. Aloha State Daily.
 
Hawaii Island

Police Warn Residents Of Parking Violation Scam In Kona. The Hawaiʻi Police Department is investigating the apparent scam – involving a device known as “The Barnacle” being placed on the windshields of parked cars. Big Island Video News.

BJ Penn misses court date following 2 arrests. UFC Hall of Fame mixed martial artist BJ Penn failed to show up in court Tuesday in a domestic abuse case after being arrested twice over the Memorial Day weekend at his family’s Puueo Street home in Hilo. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now. 

County aims to rehome puppy taken from Hilo homeless woman. Hawaii County has filed a petition asking a judge to order the forfeiture of a pet puppy owned by a 58-year-old Hilo woman who is accused of abusing the animal. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Workforce housing for educators gets underway in West Maui. State and county officials broke ground this week on a $20 million workforce housing project aimed at providing rental units for public school employees in West Maui, many of whom continue to face housing challenges in the aftermath of the Aug. 8, 2023, wildfires. Star-Advertiser. Maui News. Maui Now.  Hawaii News Now.

Lahaina shoreline near harbor now open for recreational use. The harbor itself is still closed, but after requests from the community, Maui County officials have opened up areas on the north and south ends of the harbor for noncommercial use. Hawaii Public Radio.

11-year Maui Police Department veteran arrested on sexual assault charge. The Maui Police Department announced the arrest in a Thursday news release. The department identified the individual arrested as a 48-year-old man from Kahului but did not name him. Maui News. Maui Now. KHON2.  Star-Advertiser.

Groundbreaking: $46M Kahului Airport South TSA Checkpoint expected to reduce wait times. The new two-story security screening checkpoint building at the south end of the ticket lobby will house up to six screening lanes. Maui Now.

Kauai

Public feedback wanted in search for Kauai's next chief of police. Kaua‘i County Police Commission thinks every member of the community is a stakeholder in the selection of the next chief and seeks input from Kaua‘i residents about the traits and qualities they want the next leader of Kaua‘i Police Department to possess. Kauai Now.

Kauaʻi Tackles Child Care Crisis With New Spaces And Baby-Friendly Workplaces. Solving the problem is seen as an important step in helping recruit and retain much-needed workers on the Garden Island. Initiatives could be models for the rest of the state. Civil Beat.

Water conservation stretches into 8th week for Hanalei, ‘Anini areas. A water conservation request issued by Kaua‘i County Department of Water at the beginning of April for customers in Hanalei and ʻAnini Beach on the North Shore has stretched into its eighth week — and will continue for the foreseeable future. Kauai Now.