Mayor Bissen and challenger Sugimura are heading to a November general election with sharply different views on Bill 9, which phases out thousands of short-term rentals. The makeup of the County Council — which will influence STR and water policy — is also being decided in the same election.
- Mayor Bissen supports Bill 9, already passed by the council, which phases out short-term rentals to free up housing stock after the 2023 wildfires.
- Council Vice Chair Sugimura opposes Bill 9, citing tens of millions in lost tax revenue, and is actively working on amendments to the bill.
- The November 3 general election will also determine two open Council seats, with the outcome potentially shifting the balance between the current moderate and progressive blocs.
- Both candidates agree water access is a pressing issue, with Bissen prioritizing acquisition of private water systems and Sugimura focused on expanding county water meter connections.
- The election results could significantly shape the future of STR regulation and housing policy on Maui.
Source: Maui Now
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