Kawika Lopez/Civil Beat/2025
State Lawmakers Are Removing A Hurdle To Rebuild Lahaina. Will It Matter?
The Legislature is exempting properties destroyed in a disaster from certain permitting requirements to speed up recovery efforts, but not everyone can take advantage of it.
Kawika Lopez/Civil Beat/2025
Maui Asks Feds To Flex Rules Governing $1.6 Billion Wildfire Recovery Grant
The county wants to use some of the money to rebuild accessory dwelling units but is primarily focused on securing final approval.
Kevin Fujii/Civil Beat/2024
Hawaiʻi May Cut Grass On More State Land To Prevent Spread Of Wildfires
The state land department is asking for $10 million more to battle wildfires.
Chad Blair/Civil Beat/2025
Lawmakers Agree To Pay $807 Million Into Lahaina Wildfires Settlement Fund
The legislation is part of a $4 billion deal that includes money from HECO, Kamehameha Schools and others.
Kawika Lopez/Civil Beat/2025
Lahaina Fire Stole Their Dream Home. Plans To Rebuild Reveal Deep Divides
The Deals are the first oceanfront property owners on Front Street to try rebuilding in an area that scientists say is at risk due to sea level rise. Neighbors see it as a test case.
Anthony Quintano/Civil Beat/2018
Lawmakers Wrangle HECO Rescue Bills As Session Deadline Looms
After a big win before the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court in February, the utility is making a final push before the Legislature
David Croxford/Civil Beat/2024
Schools And Communities Can Help Children Bounce Back After Distressing Wildfires
One study found that despite experiencing profound loss, many children express an eagerness to rebuild.
Nathan Eagle/Civil Beat/2024
What Lahaina’s Miracle House Tells Us About Building Fire-Resistant Homes
Building with the right materials saved homes in the Maui and Los Angeles wildfires, but many homeowners can’t afford the price.
Ku‘u Kauanoe/Civil Beat/2023
Maui Fire Settlements Could Shrink If Health Insurers Take A Bite
As settlement money begins to flow to Maui wildfire victims, a state law that allows health insurers to recoup their costs becomes a concern.
Nathan Eagle/Civil Beat/2024
Hawaiian Electric Execs Pocketed Huge Raises Despite $1.4B In Losses
Steering the utility from the brink of bankruptcy justified a $1.7 million raise for its CEO, the company said.