Mayor Richard Bissen won reelection with 56% of the vote, with his support for phasing out short-term rentals in residential zones seen as a key factor. The results signal broad voter support for prioritizing local housing affordability over vacation rental expansion.
- Mayor Bissen secured reelection on a platform centered on reducing STRs in Maui residential zones under Bill 9, passed by the County Council in December.
- His closest challenger opposed the STR phaseout but was unable to convince a majority of voters, particularly in fire-affected West Maui.
- STRs made up as much as 45% of residential units in pre-disaster Lahaina, a figure cited by housing advocates as a driver of affordability problems.
- A County Council amendment still allows STR operations to continue in developments that rezone and operate as hotel-like properties.
- Green Party candidate and Lahaina Strong leader Pa’ele Kiakona holds a narrow lead in a state Legislature race, adding political momentum to the anti-STR movement.
Source: Honolulu Star-Advertiser
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