HILO — As more money pumps into county road projects, thanks in part to a 161% increase in the fuel tax rate since 2017, the county is having trouble spending it fast enough.

HILO — A bill banning the county’s use of toxic herbicides has resurfaced at the County Council.

HILO — Domino’s’ latest topping? Asphalt.

HILO — At the urging of some 50 testifiers, a County Council panel Tuesday advanced a resolution committing to implement a “just, equitable, countywide emergency climate mobilization effort.”

HILO — With Hawaii Island’s zero waste and renewable energy programs only trudging along, it’s time for a major paradigm shift, county officials say.

HILO — The Hawaii County Council is fixing a glitch in a law that allows the county to haul abandoned vehicles from county property, but not state or federal property.

HILO — Maunakea tour companies are restructuring and selling off equipment as the closure of the access road and inability to conduct stargazing tours stretches into the ninth week.

HILO — Mass Transit Administrator Brenda Carreira is asking the County Council to fast-track approval for a three-year contract for Hele-On bus service, although she doesn’t plan to disclose the vendor or the contract amount until after the matter is approved.

HILO — The “shalls” have it.

HILO — Concerns about the impact of a strict new energy code on the cost of housing had the County Council on Tuesday vowing to look at ways to minimize costs on the Big Island.

HILO — If your internet seems a little faster these days, you’re probably not imagining it.

HILO — A humorous homespun video about a serious topic is slated to be aired Tuesday at a County Council committee meeting as the legislative body takes its first stab toward making local modifications to the International Energy Conservation Code.

HILO — A goal without a plan is just a wish.

HILO — Sometimes it pays to fight City Hall.

HILO — Some Naalehu residents who haven’t been paying their sewer bills have found themselves slapped with fines and penalties, and even warrants taken out against them.

HILO — Big Island residents will have the chance next week to weigh in on an ocean resources management plan, as statewide “sharing sessions” wrap up with meetings in Kona and Hilo.

HILO — A study of public and commercial tour capacity on Maunakea is proceeding, even though tourism on the mountain has been at a standstill for more than a month.

HILO — What’s in a word? Plenty, it seems, when it comes to the difference between “shall” and “should.”