An elderly architect tried to slip an employee what he called a gratuity. County prosecutors say it was a bribe. A judge will decide.

The city accused a plans examiner of preferential treatment. The employee said she was trying to help permit applicants.

A proposed senior living facility in Kāneʻohe would bring a range of negative impacts, residents say. The developer says it will help meet a crucial need.

New technology has not yet been able to “accelerate everything” as the mayor promised, but the permitting director is urging people to keep the faith.

The $7 million system, funded by city and federal funds, has had problems since it launched on Aug. 4. The mayor urged patience during the transition period.

Hawaiʻi needs more locally grown food, but plans for a vertical farm and aquaculture operation near Sunset Beach Park violate zoning rules and threaten the community character, critics say.

Developers of much-needed affordable housing are supposed to get permits approved or denied within three months. It’s taking far longer.

Applicants should start seeing a difference soon, the mayor says, thanks to new technology.

Mahalo to Mayor Rick Blangiardi for joining us to discuss new updates at the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting.

The county says it’s doing its job faster, but that’s not yet translating to faster permits for property owners.