Stories by Emma Grunwald

Green plans to veto commerical use boating permits bill

HONOLULU — Gov. Josh Green announced he plans on vetoing a bill aimed at reducing the number of commercial use boating permits, something several Kaua‘i tour operators said would shut down their businesses if signed into law.

Governor signs 13 health care access bills

KAILUA-KONA, Hawai‘i Island — Gov. Josh Green promoted the signing of 13 bills aimed at improving health care access statewide during a press conference at Kealakehe Clinic in the Hawai‘i Island Community Health Center on Thursday afternoon.

Emergency preparedness survey results released

LIHU‘E — Emergency preparedness and COVID-19 concerns have significantly declined in Kaua‘i households this year, according to a recent door-to-door survey completed by the state Department of Health Kaua‘i District Health Office.

County of Kaua‘i launches revamped website

LIHU‘E — The County of Kaua‘i announced its revamped website earlier this week, in a statement highlighting improved accessibility, organization and search capabilities.

Council approves federal funds for Lima Ola affordable housing project

LIHU‘E — Long-term plans for the County of Kaua‘i’s affordable housing subdivision project in ‘Ele‘ele moved forward on Wednesday, as council members voted to approve receipt of $12.72 million in federal funding for infrastructure and water systems for the Lima Ola Workforce Housing Development.

Ha‘ena State Park touted as tourism model for state

HA‘ENA – The state Department of Land and Natural Resources held a press conference at Ha‘ena State Park, where it unveiled a 63-page handbook detailing how state and county representatives have worked with community members to manage the once “overcrowded, overtaxed, and over-loved” park.

Coco Palms developer reaffirms commitment

The future of the Coco Palms Resort was a deeply discussed topic during the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs Kaua‘i Island Community Meeting on Tuesday night, where attorney Mauna Kea Trask emphasized the developer’s commitment to restoring the site.

Hundreds of jobs in peril

Several Kaua‘i tour operators say they may be forced to shut down after a bill aiming to reduce the number of commercial use boating permits passed the state Legislature last month.

Ha‘ena residents speak out against cell tower at community meeting

HA‘ENA — The Hanalei-to-Ha‘ena Community Association held an informational meeting on AT&T’s plans to construct a cell tower on a house lot in Ha‘ena, with the more than two-hour event sparking clear conflict and debate between AT&T, the County of Kaua‘i and the over 50 residents in attendance on Wednesday night, May 31, 2023.

33 seniors graduated from Island School

Island School’s 33 graduating seniors said goodbye to high school during their commencement ceremony on Saturday morning, May 27, 2023, as family members and friends filled the school’s Wilcox Gymnasium to watch the Class of 2023 deliver heartfelt presentations and receive their diplomas.