Slowly, but surely, Next-Era Energy Inc. is wooing its detractors. The latest to be convinced is the Honolulu Board of Water Supply, which on Tuesday said it had changed course on Next-Era’s proposed purchase of Hawaiian Electric Industries.

BWS offered its support after signing an agreement with NextEra and HEI that stipulates Hawaiian Electric Co. would work with the water utility on renewable-energy programs that would cut costs and improve emergency response planning. The two utilities also agreed to meet regularly.

BWS was among 26 groups requesting involvement in the Public Utilities Commission’s decision on the $4.3 billion sale. The first group to reverse its stance and support the sale was the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1620.

Still, NextEra has to win over the rest of the intervenors, including the state consumer advocate. Ratepayers need solid commitments, too.

Get serious with BB-gun shooters

This week’s second arrest over a BB-gun shooting that injured a teen in Maikiki on Oct. 16 brings some measure of relief. But because the arrestee is a minor, justice will proceed behind Family Court’s closed doors; the public will have to take it on faith that the youth will be properly dealt with. Still to come, in open court Nov. 16, will be Justin Souvana, 25, the case’s first arrestee, who allegedly drove the van involved in this shooting.

The Makiki incident was the 18th on Oahu recently involving a BB or pellet gun.