Multiple sources report that Maui County has signed a memorandum of understanding with Maui Land & Pineapple Co. to acquire key West Maui water systems. The agreement comes after a year of negotiations and represents the first phase of a broader effort to transition water resources from private to public ownership.
- The MOU would increase public stewardship of West Maui’s drinking water systems from 45% to 93%
- The acquisition includes the Honokōhau Ditch and reservoir system, nearly 9,000 acres at Puʻu Kukui Watershed, and seven existing aquifer wells plus two proposed new ones
- The deal is part of a broader effort to also acquire private water systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko
- The proposed new 120-million-gallon reservoir and Kahana Pump Station are included in the assets (Yahoo)
- The collective cost will be in the millions, though exact pricing will be determined through formal appraisal (Yahoo)
- The acquisition must still receive Maui County Council approval and clear other key hurdles including appraisals
- Mayor Bissen says the move will support affordable housing development, emergency response, agriculture, and environmental protection
Sources
- Hawaii Free Press: County to Buy West Maui Water System from ML&P
- Yahoo: Maui County seeks majority control of West Maui water systems
- Hawaii Public Radio: ‘Historic’ Maui County purchase of key West Maui water systems moves forward with agreement
- Yahoo: Maui County agrees to buy MLP water assets
- Maui County: Historic County-MLP MOU sets framework for long-term water security
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