The longer a well-founded, long-standing and controversial plan to raze most of the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium is delayed, the more the project will cost. And the more it costs, the less likely it is to be undertaken.

So it’s difficult to see how an 18-month delay proposed by the state helps anyone but opponents of the demolition, who want the crumbling Waikiki facility restored to its former glory.

The current compromise plan is the correct one, because it preserves the memorial’s arches as a tribute to World War I veterans while demolishing the Natatorium pool and bleachers and returning that area to open space. This plan, estimated to cost $18.4 million, remains the city’s preferred outcome, and it should move forward to achieve it.

Firefighters earn admiration fighting gas-leak fire

Monday’s 9:24 p.m. Kapahulu gas-line break that kept flames shooting 20 feet into the air for hours was captured live on TV, and it was a mesmerizing yet terrifying scene. The potential for a larger, explosive disaster loomed — so watching the firefighters working their hoses with calm and control, and so close to the danger, was beyond impressive.

Well done, HFD, for protecting our communities.