Local Columnist Reflects on Millennial Generation’s Challenges
A Maui News columnist shares personal reflections on how millennials are navigating economic uncertainty and serving as cultural bridges between generations. Local writer discusses millennials adapting to economic uncertainty despite promises of stability through hard work and education. The column draws parallels between aging public infrastructure and generational pressures on millennials. Author reflects on challenges […]
County Moves to Control 93% of West Maui Water Through Private Acquisitions
Multiple sources report that Maui County has signed a memorandum of understanding to acquire water infrastructure from Maui Land & Pineapple Company, part of a broader effort to gain control of private water systems in West Maui. The move would increase county control of the region’s water from 45% to 93% and support housing development […]
Maui County Plans to Buy Private West Maui Water Systems for Public Control
Maui County is pursuing deals to purchase three private water systems in West Maui, which would increase county control from 45% to 93% of the area’s water supply. The acquisitions include watershed land, wells, and infrastructure currently owned by private companies. County seeks to buy water systems in Olowalu, Launiupoko, and from Maui Land and […]
Lahaina Fire Insurance Claims Reach $1.35 Billion, More Losses Expected
Multiple news sources report that insurance claims from the August 2023 Maui wildfires have exceeded $1.35 billion as of late September. The Hawaii Insurance Division released preliminary loss estimates showing that insurers have paid out over $676 million so far, with experts predicting total costs will continue rising. Total wildfire-related insurance claims reached $1.35 billion […]
Tupper Lake Resident Pushes Town Board for STR Rules After Years of Delays
A Tupper Lake resident is urging local officials to create short-term rental regulations, expressing concerns about STRs in residential neighborhoods. The town currently has no specific STR restrictions beyond state tax requirements. Tupper Lake currently has no specific short-term rental regulations beyond state tax collection rules. A resident cited concerns about STRs in dense residential […]
New Federal Reserve Chair Confirmed as Congressional War Vote Fails
The Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new Federal Reserve chair in a mostly party-line vote, while both chambers failed to pass resolutions ending the war on Iran. Kevin Warsh was confirmed as Federal Reserve chair by a 54-45 Senate vote, replacing Jerome Powell. Senate resolution to end the war on Iran failed 49-50 with […]
Hawaii’s Medicaid Fraud Enforcement Record Ranks Worst Nationally
Hawaii’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit has produced zero indictments and convictions for four straight years, marking the worst enforcement record in the nation according to federal data. Hawaii is the only state with no Medicaid fraud indictments or convictions in each of the last four years. Federal reviews in 2015 and 2019 found serious operational […]
Building Codes and Fire-Resistant Construction Become Critical for Properties
Contractors are being urged to adopt fire-resistant building practices and updated codes as wildfire risks expand beyond traditional high-risk zones, with lithium-ion battery systems creating additional fire hazards. Wildfires are increasing globally and affecting areas previously considered low-risk, requiring updated building approaches. The 2023 Maui wildfires destroyed or damaged over 2,200 buildings, highlighting vulnerability of […]
Visitor Charged After Throwing Rock at Endangered Monk Seal in Lahaina
A Washington man was federally charged after throwing a rock at a Hawaiian monk seal off Lahaina. The incident has prompted calls for better visitor education about Hawaii’s endangered wildlife. Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, faces up to one year in prison and $70,000 in fines for harassing an endangered monk seal. The incident occurred in Lahaina […]
Breezy Conditions and Scattered Showers Expected Across Maui
Breezy weather with scattered showers is forecast for Maui today and Tuesday, with the highest chance of rain on the North Shore and East Maui at 50 percent. West and South sides will see mostly sunny skies with isolated showers and temperatures in the low 80s. North Shore and East Maui face scattered showers with […]