With Hawaiʻi's recent primary election turnout dropping to just 33.1%, the League of Women Voters of Hawaiʻi County explores the historical roots of voter apathy and urges residents to reclaim their voice this National Voter Registration Day on Sept. 15.

Results from the Aug. 8 Primary Election set up a District 6 council showdown between Guy Enriques and Zed Aki, while Jeanné Kapela and Jill Tokuda secure victories alongside two state constitutional ballot measures.

After negotiations fail and the county's lease ends on August 29, the Kaʻū Community Development Plan Action Committee forms a working group to engage landowners regarding the future of Punaluʻu Beach.

State Rep. Jeanné Kapela announces an estimated $123 million in Highway 11 and island-wide repaving projects over the next five years, addressing key stretches in Kaʻū.

The future of Punaluʻu Black Sands Beach remains a pressing question for the Kaʻū community. While county ownership would guarantee continued public services and access, potential operation by Black Sand Beach LLC leaves many questions unanswered.

The County of Hawaiʻi and Black Sand Beach LLC extended leases for Punaluʻu Beach Click to open side panel for more information park parcels through September 1, 2026, as the County pursues potential acquisition through its PONC land preservation program.

A Kaʻū News investigation reveals that Black Sand Beach LLC and an affiliated company owe nearly $150,000 in delinquent property taxes, putting several parcels near Punaluʻu at risk of a county tax sale.

Explore our neutral, non-partisan 2026 Hawaiʻi election voter guide for Kaʻū residents. Compare candidate Q&A responses for District 6 County Council, State House, Governor, and OHA Trustees on key local issues including housing, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development.

Over 300 residents weighed in on the future of Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach in a recent community survey, prioritizing environmental protection, cultural sites, and the restoration of existing infrastructure over new commercial development.

Representative Jeanné Kapela shares key legislative updates for House District 5, including $50 million secured for the Kaʻū Hospital – Keaʻau Outpatient Center, agricultural investments, emergency resilience, and Highway 11 resurfacing efforts.

Four candidates competing for the Hawaiʻi County Council District 6 seat met at an Ocean View forum to debate critical community issues, including the future of Punaluʻu Beach development, local water access, and public safety.