Wastewater Upgrades: Honolulu broke ground on more than $85M to modernize the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, including a $61M dewatering building and $23M biotower rehabilitation after EPA-ordered fixes tied to high bacteria discharges in 2023. Wildfire Readiness: DLNR says it’s ramping up for the 2026 wildfire and hurricane seasons with new wildland fire engines, more aerial firefighting support, vegetation management, and improved water sources for helicopter operations. Wildfire Risk on Roads: HDOT is also stepping up statewide wildfire prevention, focusing on vegetation removal and evacuation-route work in high-risk areas. Monk Seal Protection: Kaimana Beach fully reopened after Hawaiian monk seal Kaiwi and her pup left; officials say the pup will be relocated to reduce risky human interactions. Airport Parking Fees: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport parking rates for cars parked 6+ hours rise July 1, with the biggest jump for 8+ hours. Animal Rights in Court: Hawaiʻi’s Supreme Court will consider a case seeking legal personhood for zoo elephants, with potential implications for the Honolulu Zoo’s elephant enclosure. Disaster Preparedness Lessons: Otake Camp flood survivors from the Kona low urge better preparedness after evacuations tied to extreme rainfall and fast-moving flooding. Water Security for Farms: The state Agribusiness Development Corporation approved final terms to transfer the Wahiawā Irrigation System into public ownership, aiming for long-term food security and upgrades. Earthquake Monitoring: Scientists deployed temporary seismic sensors around Mauna Loa after a 6.0 quake to better understand seismic hazards.