Maui County is seeking Council approval to purchase the Launiupoko and Olowalu private water systems for up to $6 million, part of a broader effort to bring 93% of West Maui’s drinking water infrastructure under public ownership. Final closing is not expected until April 2027, pending Council and Public Utilities Commission approval.
- The county would acquire wells, pipelines, pumps, reservoirs, and easements from two private West Maui water companies for a combined price of up to $6 million.
- This is the second phase of a larger West Maui water consolidation effort; a separate deal with Maui Land & Pineapple for additional infrastructure is also underway.
- County officials say the acquisitions would raise public ownership of West Maui drinking water from 45% to 93%, supporting affordable housing, agriculture, and emergency preparedness.
- The purchase price for Launiupoko is well below its $8 million appraised value, while Olowalu would be bought at roughly $500,000 above appraisal — both were negotiated as a package deal.
- The consolidation effort stems in part from a post-2023 wildfire recovery resolution calling for unified water system management across island regions.
Source: Maui Now
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