#lynn decoite
Young Brothers’ rate increase begins July 1, along with repayment of nearly $30M in back fees to state
The shipping company will be able to automatically increase rates every year under a bill signed into law in May by Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green.
Four lawmakers unopposed for re-election; Mayor’s office and a few Maui Council seats hotly contested
Two Maui County Council members are headed back to office without a fight, along with Central Maui Sen. Troy Hashimoto and Kahului Rep. Justin Woodson who’re also uncontested for re-election.
Lahaina school rebuild gets nearly $200M, wildfire study misses out on funding
Maui Health also got funding in the budget as the legislative session closed last week, but lawmakers think it won’t be enough for repairs to the storm-damaged Kula Hospital.
Senate confirms leadership for Hawaiʻi Agribusiness Development Corporation Board of Directors
The Hawaiʻi State Senate has confirmed Gov. Josh Green’s reappointment of current Board Chair Jayson M. Watts to the board of directors of the Agribusiness Development Corporation, along with the appointments of David Hinazumi and Joshua Uyehara. The confirmations ensure leadership continuity for the agency responsible for managing the state’s most critical agricultural land and water infrastructure.
Hawaiʻi Women’s Legislative Caucus presents 2026 bill package to support women, children, and families
Members of the bipartisan Hawaiʻi Women’s Legislative Caucus led a panel discussion on Wednesday, in collaboration with the YWCA of Oʻahu to present their 2026 legislative package as part of their continuous work to improve the lives of Hawaiʻi’s women, children, and families.
Mayor Bissen to make annual appearance with Hawai‘i mayors before state lawmakers
Mayor Richard Bissen will join the state’s other three mayors in making presentations Monday afternoon before members of the Senate Ways and Means and House Finance committees at the State Capitol. Aside from Bissen, the other mayors scheduled to appear are Honolulu City and County Mayor Rick Blangiardi, Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda and Kaua‘i […]
33rd Hawaiʻi State Legislature opens with traditional ceremony, outlook for work ahead
The 33rd Hawaiʻi State Legislature convened Wednesday with calls for humility and urgent action as lawmakers face a tightened federal budget, a high-profile ethics investigation and the ongoing recovery from the Maui wildfires.
With ‘tougher session’ ahead, Maui Nui lawmakers strategize on seeking funding for fire recovery, housing
A lagging economy will mean a tighter budget and tougher choices for lawmakers as the Legislature opens today.
Senate budget informational meetings scheduled at Capitol
The Senate Committee on Ways and Means released its budget informational briefings schedule for the upcoming 2026 legislative session to ensure responsible spending of public funds on resident priorities. The briefings, which are held before the session begins on Jan. 21, are designed to provide both legislators and the public with a clear understanding of […]
Maui senators weigh in on leadership roles for 2026 session
Maui County’s three-member delegation to the Hawaiʻi State Senate says its assigned leadership and committee roles position them to advocate effectively for wildfire recovery and resources during what is expected to be a financially difficult legislative session.
Maui senators secure leadership and committee assignments ahead of 33rd Legislature
Maui Sens. Lynn DeCoite, Troy Hashimoto and Angus McKelvey have secured various leadership positions.
Final request: Kama asks Council to consider appointing Kauanoe Batangan as her successor
Seven-year Maui County Council Member Natalie “Tasha” Kama, who died Sunday night at Maui Memorial Medical Center, has asked fellow council members to appoint Kauanoe Batangan to serve out the remainder of her term. “In her final request to the Maui County Council, she humbly asked that Kauanoe Batangan, an experienced and distinguished public servant, […]
Senate committee releases report detailing its September visit to Lānaʻi and Maui
The Senate Committee on Ways and Means finalized visits with government agencies and community leaders on Lānaʻi and Maui to receive significant updates on education, housing, agricultural innovations, healthcare, workforce development pathways and wildfire management efforts.
New board of directors announced for Maui Hotel & Lodging Association
The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association officially inducted its new 2025-2026 Board of Directors at its annual meeting on Sept. 10 at the Fairmont Kea Lani. The new board members were elected from a list of candidates nominated by association’s property and allied members. Executive Director John Pele expressed his confidence in the new leadership. “I am honored to […]
Senate WAM Committee gains fire management insights during visit to Maui
Members were walked through the DOFAW’s Kahului Baseyard, where DLNR is leading current fire management efforts.
Senate Ways and Means Committee visits Lānaʻi for updates on local sustainability
The Senate Ways and Means Committee arrived on Lānaʻi to receive updates on economic development and sustainability efforts from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism and the Agribusiness Development Corporation.
MEO installs board members for 2025-26, marks 60-year anniversary
Maui Economic Opportunity’s 60th-year Board of Directors, led again by Carol Reimann, were installed last month with Mayor Richard Bissen, Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and state Sen. Lynn DeCoite joining the candle-themed ceremony.
Lt. Gov. Luke signs bill to establish Broadband Office, expand digital navigator program
The landmark legislation strengthens the state’s commitment to closing the digital divide and ensuring all Hawaiʻi residents have access to reliable internet and the digital skills needed to thrive.
Groundbreaking: $46M Kahului Airport South TSA Checkpoint expected to reduce wait times
The state Department of Transportation conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the $46 million Kahului Airport South TSA Checkpoint Project. The project is expected to be completed in December 2026.
LA Rams and Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority team up to promote Hawaiian Islands with Mauicamp
The Los Angeles Rams are bringing a Minicamp to Maui from June 16-19, and will host on-field team activities on June 17 and 18, featuring players in workout gear at War Memorial Stadium in Wailuku. The “Mauicamp Powered by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority” is being offered under a partnership to promote tourism to Maui and Hawaiʻi.