There are contested races for councils in Maui, Hawaii and Kauai counties and a hot race for Big Island mayor. But all of Oahu’s races were settled in the primary.

The Honolulu Police Commission recently discussed public concerns that holding its meetings behind tight security inside the police department might intimidate citizens who have a beef with a cop from showing up to complain. Commissioners opined people should not be scared and that moving the meeting would be inconvenient for the police chief and staff.

Will Hawaii follow the lead of other states in limiting cell phone use in public schools?

UH is looking to renew a controversial contract to conduct research for the military. Supporters say that means jobs and technology but critics worry about secrecy and fallout. Meanwhile, the Navy is set to resume bombing of an island.

The Hawaii Invasive Species Council is asking residents statewide to alert authorities about colonies of little fire ants before they become entrenched.

Rep. David Alcos has been fined by the state Ethics Commission for failing to disclose millions of dollars in debt as required by state law. House leaders could pursue further action but say their own conduct committee has never taken a case.

Hawaii State Senate President Ron Kouchi is backing Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami’s plan to succeed him in 2026.

House Speaker Scott Saiki may have lost reelection, but his political ally, Gov. Josh Green, may appoint him to serve as the state’s insurance commissioner.

EVs are growing in popularity, but the Valley Island doesn’t have the infrastructure to rent enough vehicles to visitors. It’s a cost and permitting issue.

Gun violence in West Oahu has state and city officials demanding more policing.