Hawaii News

Hawaiʻi’s biggest developments in the supplied coverage center on public safety, health care, housing, and community services. On the Big Island, police say nearly 600 motorists have already been arrested for DUI this year, underscoring an ongoing enforcement push, while a Kona officer was recognized for helping an elderly scam victim recover $60,000 in savings. Big Island Now also reports that Gov. Josh Green has released $50 million in state funding for a proposed outpatient care center in Kona, and that the Public Utilities Commission is heading to Pāhala to address a private system’s failure to restore water and sewer service in Kaʻū. Those stories point to continuing pressure on health access and basic infrastructure in West Hawaiʻi. State releases $50 million for proposed outpatient care center in Kona and Public Utilities Commission coming to Pāhala to address private system’s failure to restore water, sewer are the clearest statewide-policy items in the set.

On Maui, the political spotlight is on the county mayor’s race, where Maui Now says allegations involving the police chief could tighten the showdown. The island’s other notable thread is community and cultural activity: a second performance of “Witch Perfect” was added at Historic ʻĪao Theater after the first show sold out, Mākena Golf & Beach Club donated to Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui through a community art exhibit, and OHA is holding a Maui listening session on military-leased lands. Maui Now also reports that Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Associate Justice Sabrina McKenna has been selected for an American Bar Association diversity award, a statewide recognition with local significance. ‘October surprise’ allegations could tighten Maui County’s mayoral showdown and OHA to hold Maui listening session Saturday on military-leased lands are the main Maui developments.

Kauaʻi’s coverage is dominated by recovery and local services. Kauaʻi Now says the county is still cleaning up and rebuilding after Hurricane Lowell, while the Department of Water has announced upcoming rate increases beginning Nov. 1. At the same time, the county is reopening its Grant-in-Aid application period, a new lifeguard tower has been installed at Wanini Beach, and a $7 million renovation is extending the life of 80 affordable rental homes in Līhuʻe. What Kauaʻi County residents, visitors need to know Friday about Hurricane Lowell recovery and Kaua‘i County Department of Water announces upcoming rate increases are the key Kauaʻi stories.