NEIGHBOR ISLANDS

Kauai panel votes in favor of landowner

A Kauai landowner who wants to finish building a new home atop ancient Hawaiian burial grounds has won a vote before the Kauai Planning Commission.

The panel on Tuesday rejected a challenge to plans by California developer Joseph Brescia to complete his single-family home.

The house is on the island's northern side. It sits atop a layer of concrete that was poured over at least six graves found on Brescia's 15,670-acre property.

The commission was acting on a request by the Native Hawaiian Legal Corp.

Ancient graves have been found at many construction sites around Hawaii, including Oahu's Kawaiahao Church and large retail stores.