March Storms Devastate Oahu Farms, Could Reduce Local Food Supply
Severe flooding in March caused an estimated $50 million in damage to nearly 2,000 Hawaii farms, destroying crops and equipment across Oahu’s North Shore agricultural areas. Back-to-back March storms brought Hawaii’s worst flooding in 20 years, wiping out entire farms just weeks before harvest. Nearly 2,000 farms sustained damage with losses estimated at $50 million […]
Documentary on Maui Off-Grid Architecture Released on YouTube
A 13-minute documentary featuring architect David Sellers and sustainable building practices on Maui has been released on YouTube. The film explores off-grid living and climate-resilient construction following the Lahaina wildfire. The documentary ‘Journey Beyond the Grid’ follows Maui-based architect David Sellers who specializes in off-grid, sustainable design. The film was shot entirely on Maui and […]
Hawaii Attorney General Defends State’s Medicaid Fraud Enforcement Record
Hawaii’s Attorney General responded to federal criticism by citing 25 Medicaid fraud prosecutions and $14 million in recoveries since 2021. The state is working with federal partners to strengthen enforcement after a recent federal review identified challenges. Hawaii’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit has secured $14 million in judgments and settlements across 25 cases since 2021. […]
Hawaii Bans Corporate Political Spending Starting July 2027
Governor Green signed a new law prohibiting corporations and LLCs from spending money on political campaigns or ballot measures. The law takes effect July 1, 2027 and applies to all business entities organized under Hawaii law. Act 011 bans corporations, LLCs, and other business entities from spending on elections or ballot measures starting July 2027. […]
Whitehorse Implements Staged Restrictions on Short-Term Rental Properties
Whitehorse City Council approved new regulations limiting short-term rentals in residential areas, with restrictions on non-resident operators taking effect in October 2027. Current operators can continue under a grandfather clause if they comply with city regulations. New short-term rental operators will be prohibited from renting residential properties that aren’t their primary residence starting October 1, […]
Maui County Council Elections May Shift Policy Direction This Fall
Upcoming Maui County Council elections could create a progressive majority as conservative members step down and competitive races emerge. The results may influence post-wildfire recovery policies, housing decisions, and development regulations. Two conservative council members are not seeking reelection, creating opportunities for progressive candidates to gain control. Elections are viewed as a referendum on local […]
Wildfire Settlement Payouts Begin This Year But Won’t Fully Cover Losses
Maui fire survivors will receive their first settlement payments in 2026, with $550 million distributed this year from the $4 billion settlement. Economists warn the payments won’t fully compensate families for their losses, especially with rising costs. Settlement payments will boost Maui County personal income by 5.4% in 2026, the largest gain of any county. […]
Wildfire Survivors Face Ongoing Mental Health Crisis Three Years Later
Mental health challenges persist for Maui wildfire survivors nearly three years after the disaster, with economic instability and housing issues worsening psychological recovery. Provider shortages and recent storms have further complicated healing efforts. Mental health professionals report survivors still experiencing trauma, grief, and instability nearly three years after the August 2023 fires. Economic stress from […]
Maui Resident Loses $600 to Storm Repair Scammer, Others Warned
A Kihei woman was conned out of $600 by a fraudulent contractor who advertised storm repair services on Nextdoor then disappeared. Local nonprofits report similar scams are common and urge residents to only work with trusted organizations. A 67-year-old Kihei resident paid $600 upfront to a contractor she found on Nextdoor who then vanished without […]
Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk Expected on Maui Through Weekend
Strong trade winds are bringing heavy rain and potential flooding to Maui through the weekend, with conditions expected to improve by Sunday evening. Flood Watch in effect for Maui County with risk of rapid flooding from heavy downpours. Unstable weather system could produce thunderstorms through Saturday. Small Craft Advisory issued for Maui waters through early […]