Multiple news outlets report that Maui County has reached a memorandum of understanding with Maui Land & Pineapple Co. to acquire the company’s West Maui water infrastructure. The agreement would increase public ownership of West Maui drinking water systems from 45% to 93%, though the County Council must still approve the final purchase.
- County signed MOU with Maui Land & Pineapple to acquire Honokōhau Ditch System, seven wells, reservoir sites and pump stations
- Deal includes long-term ground lease for 8,661-acre Pu’u Kukui Watershed preserve to maximize rainfall capture (Maui Now)
- Acquisition follows year of negotiations and aims to reduce water conflicts between resorts, traditional farmers, and residents
- County also plans to acquire additional private water systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko as part of broader effort
- Final purchase price still being negotiated, with compensation structured more like a trade than cash transaction (Hawaii News Now)
- Agreement could enable workforce and affordable housing development, plus potential sites for new police and fire facilities (Maui Now)
Sources
- Maui News: County announces agreement with Maui Land & Pineapple to acquire West Maui water system, other assets
- Maui Now: ‘Historic opportunity’: County plans to acquire Maui Land & Pineapple’s water system in West Maui
- Hawaii News Now: Maui County reaches water deal with Maui Land & Pineapple
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