"Non-homeowner" tax rate would still be far lower than on neighbor islands, but concerns about impact on renters and "ohana" units could derail increase.

With the clock ticking and several hurdles yet to clear, it's unlikely that Mayor Mufi Hannemann will see the city break ground on its rail project on his watch if he resigns to run for governor by the July 20 candidate filing deadline.

Legislature required 80 percent of workers on government contracts to be Hawaii residents, but federal law prohibits discrimination based on geography.

Warning signs have been posted along Palolo Stream, the Ala Wai Canal and Magic Island after a 1,200-gallon wastewater spill.

If City Councilman Charles Djou wins the May 22 special election for the 1st Congressional District, he will be replaced by an appointee.

In some communities, pay-as-you-throw programs charge residents a variable rate depending on how much they throw away.