Community News
Saturday, May 16, 2026 · Honolulu County
Honolulu Police Commission Picks 3 Finalists for HPD Chief
The Honolulu Police Commission advanced three finalists—a state law enforcement director, a Georgia police chief, and a retired San Francisco assistant chief—in its search for the next HPD leader.
Hawaii Bans Corporate Political Spending With First-in-Nation Law
Hawaii lawmakers approved the first law banning corporate political spending in elections, taking effect in 2027. The measure sidesteps federal court restrictions by removing the corporate power to spend rather than capping spending directly.
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Maui's Unsheltered Homeless Population Surges 40% as Shelter Beds Empty
Unsheltered homelessness rose 2% across Hawaii's neighbor islands in the 2026 Point-in-Time Count, even as overall homelessness fell. Maui saw a 40% surge in people sleeping outside.
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Hawaii Election Officials Defend Mail Voting Against Federal Pressure
Hawaii election officials vowed to continue sending ballots by mail to all registered voters despite pressure from former President Donald Trump and federal action targeting mail voting nationwide.
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Oahu MPO Adopts 2050 Transportation Plan
The Oahu MPO adopted its 2050 regional transportation plan on March 30, establishing priorities for safety, transit, and climate resilience through mid-century.
Saturday, May 16, 2026