Multiple sources report that Maui County has signed a memorandum of understanding to acquire water infrastructure from Maui Land & Pineapple Company, part of a broader effort to gain control of private water systems in West Maui. The move would increase county control of the region’s water from 45% to 93% and support housing development for local residents.
- County plans to acquire Maui Land & Pineapple’s West Maui water infrastructure as part of broader effort to buy private systems in Olowalu and Launiupoko
- Deal would give county control of Honokōhau Ditch System, including reservoirs, tunnels, and pipelines
- Acquisition includes long-term lease of 8,661-acre Puʻu Kukui Watershed Preserve that supplies majority of West Maui’s fresh water
- County would gain seven existing aquifer wells in Kahana and Honokahua areas, plus two proposed new well sites
- Package includes proposed 120-million-gallon reservoir site and Kahana Pump Station
- Additional non-water assets include land for police substation, fire station, and affordable housing development
- Deal requires appraisals and county council approval, with collective cost expected to be in the millions (KHON2)
- Honokōhau Ditch system is currently subject to civil litigation and DLNR maintenance concerns (KHON2)
Sources
- Aloha State Daily: Maui County looks to acquire water assets from Maui Land & Pineapple
- KHON2: Maui County seeks majority control of West Maui water systems
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