A controversial plan to develop a small parcel along the Kona coast has developed into a much larger dispute over coastal development in general. The county of Hawai`i Planning Commission agreed to hold a contested case hearing over a Special … Continued
Governor Cayetano has signed into law, as Act 135, legislation that extends for five years the authorization of special purpose revenue bonds — SPRBs — for a partnership known as Hui `Enekenia Hawai`i. The original authorization, made in 1993, was … Continued
In Judgment, BLNR Concedes It Violated Open Meetings Law The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has acknowledged it violated the state Open Meetings Law on many occasions. The concession was contained in a stipulated judgment settling a lawsuit … Continued
NBC Permit to Film at Mahai`ula Allows Use of Site 20 Days Per Month The state Film Office has issued a permit to NBC to use Kekaha Kai State Park as a site for filming a new series, to be … Continued
After spending several years searching for a site, Maui Electric Company is proposing to build a new power generation plant on 66 acres at Waena, near Pu`unene. The state Land Use Commission is now considering MECO’s application to place the … Continued
Does Maui need a new power plant? The answer depends on Mauians. Yes, absolutely, if the island’s residents do nothing to bring about a radical change in their electricity consumption. Maybe. Even if residents and businesses effect dramatic changes in … Continued
In the environmental impact statement for the proposed Waena power plant, Maui Electric Company refers to its energy-conservation program as “one of the most aggressive and dynamic in the United States.” If this “aggressive” program meets its goals, Maui’s demand … Continued
Hawai’i is blessed with abundant sunshine and a temperate climate. In contrast to many parts of the mainland United States, no significant energy is spent in Hawai’i on heating costs (other than hot-water heating). In addition, buildings can be designed … Continued
A century and a half ago, the kingdom of Hawai’i undertook a road-building project that, in its time, was probably no less ambi–tious than that of today’s H-3 freeway. The idea was to connect Kona with Hilo by the most … Continued
It will be at least another six months, and probably much longer than that, before the twin falls at the back of Waipi`o Valley are both running. The state Commission on Water Resource Management has voted to give Bishop Estate … Continued