Gov. Green Appoints New Circuit Court Judges for Maui and Kauai
Governor Green appointed two new Circuit Court judges – Annalisa Bernard Lee for Maui’s Second Circuit and Michael Soong for Kauai’s Fifth Circuit. Both currently serve as District Court judges and their appointments require State Senate confirmation. Annalisa Bernard Lee promoted from District to Circuit Court judge for Second Circuit covering Maui. Michael Soong appointed […]
February Tourist Spending Rises 10.3% as Economic Recovery Continues
Tourist spending in Hawaii increased 10.3% in February while UHERO released analysis on Maui’s post-fire tourism economic impact. Several other legal and political developments are affecting the state. February tourist spending increased 10.3% compared to the previous period. UHERO published analysis examining the economic impact of Maui’s tourism downturn following the fires. Honolulu officials are […]
UHERO Study Quantifies Ongoing Economic Losses from Wildfire Tourism Drop
A University of Hawaii economic study shows Maui continues to face significant job and revenue losses from reduced tourism following the 2023 wildfires, with impacts spreading statewide through supply chain connections. Maui County lost an average of 18,000 jobs in late 2023, declining to about 9,000 jobs throughout 2024. Statewide economic impact in 2024 reached […]
Grand Wailea Partners with Hawaii Celebrity for New Menu Item Launch
Grand Wailea resort has launched a specialty dessert in collaboration with Hawaii-born entertainer Sydney Agudong as part of its ongoing dining program refresh. The partnership reflects the resort’s strategy to attract younger guests while maintaining its luxury appeal. Grand Wailea introduced the Island Buzz Sundae featuring local flavors like macadamia, coconut, and tropical fruits. The […]
Appellate Court Confirms Higher Property Taxes for Wailea Palms Units
Hawaii’s appellate court upheld a ruling that classifies individual Wailea Palms condo units as ‘non-owner-occupied’ rather than ‘apartment’ properties, resulting in higher property tax rates for owners. The Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals rejected attempts to classify condo units under the lower ‘apartment’ tax rate. Individual condo units don’t qualify as ‘multi-dwelling-unit improvements’ under county […]
Marine Debris Cleanup Program Mobilizes 50-100 Volunteers Monthly on Maui
Pacific Whale Foundation leads Maui’s official marine debris response, coordinating volunteers to remove fishing nets, buoys, and plastic waste from beaches and reefs. The program tracks debris sources and locations to build data for potential policy changes. Teams remove heavy marine debris including a 2,500-pound net mass discovered at Waiehu Beach Park. Monthly volunteer efforts […]
Maui Wildfire Recovery Documentary Screens in California This Week
A documentary featuring Lahaina residents’ recovery stories will screen in Santa Barbara, highlighting ongoing challenges nearly three years after the 2023 wildfires. The film focuses on long-term rebuilding efforts and community displacement issues. Documentary ‘Lahaina: Voices of Change’ screens Friday at Santa Barbara’s Lobero Theatre with panel discussion featuring Maui community leaders. Film highlights that […]
Food Bank Leader Departs After Guiding Post-Crisis Operations
Maui Food Bank CEO Lisa Paulson will step down April 15 to pursue national advocacy work. She led the organization since August 2024 during a period of 65% increased food insecurity. CEO Lisa Paulson leaves April 15 after leading the food bank since August 2024. Her tenure coincided with a 65% surge in food insecurity […]
Maui Brewing Launches New Light Lager, Partners with Hawaiian Airlines
Maui Brewing Company has released a new light lager beer and will serve it on all Hawaiian Airlines flights starting in April. The company is hosting a launch party at their Kihei taproom on April 10. Maui Brewing’s new light lager will be served on all Hawaiian Airlines flights beginning in early April. The company […]
Maui United Way Launches Emergency Fund to Address Recent Flooding Impacts
Maui United Way has activated its emergency response fund with $100,000 from Kaiser Permanente to address recent severe flooding that has compounded ongoing wildfire recovery efforts. The organization is coordinating with county agencies and community partners to provide immediate aid including meals, grants, and connectivity support across affected areas. Recent severe flooding has created additional […]