Hawaii Legislature Sets 2026 Priorities: Housing, Climate Action, and Economic Recovery Take Center Stage
Both chambers of the Hawaii Legislature have unveiled their key priorities for the 2026 session, with affordable housing, climate resilience, and economic diversification emerging as top bipartisan concerns. The legislative agenda reflects ongoing efforts to address Maui’s recovery needs while tackling statewide challenges affecting residents and visitors alike. Senate Majority plans to prioritize affordable housing […]
New Planning Director Appointed to Lead Maui County Development Decisions
Maui County has appointed Jacky Takakura as its new Planning Director, a key position that will oversee land use decisions, development permits, and zoning matters affecting both residents and the tourism industry. Takakura will oversee critical planning decisions that impact vacation rental regulations, hotel developments, and residential housing projects across Maui County The Planning Director […]
New Candidate Enters Race for Maui County’s Top Executive Position
Justin Herrmann has officially declared his candidacy for Maui County Mayor in the upcoming election. His campaign announcement adds another contender to the race for the county’s chief executive role. Herrmann joins the growing field of candidates seeking to lead Maui County government The mayoral race will determine who oversees key county services including permits, […]
New Landscaping Guidelines Help West Maui Properties Reduce Wildfire Risk
A comprehensive landscaping guide has been released to help Lahaina and West Maui property owners create fire-resistant outdoor spaces following the devastating 2023 wildfires. The guidelines focus on plant selection, property maintenance, and defensible space strategies to protect homes and businesses. Property owners can now access detailed recommendations for fire-resistant native plants and landscaping materials […]
Full Marathon Sold Out for Maui’s Signature Running Event, But Shorter Races Still Open
The full marathon distance for Maui’s premier running event has reached maximum capacity, though participants can still register for the half marathon, 10K, and 5K races. Marathon registration is completely full, indicating strong demand for Maui’s premier running event Half marathon, 10K, and 5K distances still have available spots for registration The event represents a […]
Kahului Harbor Infrastructure Upgrade: New Bathroom and Wastewater Facilities Under Construction
Major construction has commenced at Kahului Small Boat Harbor to install new bathroom facilities and an upgraded wastewater treatment system. The infrastructure improvements are expected to enhance visitor and boater amenities at one of Maui’s key recreational harbors. Construction work has officially begun on new bathroom and wastewater system infrastructure at Kahului Small Boat Harbor […]
Maui County Launches Free Construction Training Program to Address Local Housing and Infrastructure Needs
Maui County has announced a new initiative offering free tuition for construction training programs aimed at addressing the island’s critical shortage of skilled workers in the building trades. The program comes as the county faces ongoing challenges with housing development and infrastructure projects following recent natural disasters and economic pressures. Free construction training programs are […]
Paia Community Mobilizes to Relocate Youth Center Due to Coastal Erosion
The beloved Paia Youth Cultural Center faces relocation as rising sea levels and coastal erosion threaten its current oceanfront location. Community leaders are actively developing plans for a new facility to preserve this important cultural hub for local families and visitors. Climate change impacts are directly affecting Paia’s community infrastructure, with the youth center at […]
State Develops Comprehensive Wildfire Strategy as Fire Marshal’s Office Expands Operations
Hawaii is creating a new statewide wildfire management plan while significantly expanding the State Fire Marshal’s Office to better protect communities and visitors from future fire risks. A comprehensive wildfire prevention and response plan is being developed to protect Maui’s communities and popular tourist areas The State Fire Marshal’s Office is undergoing major expansion to […]
New Framework Proposed to Simplify Lahaina’s Commercial Area Reconstruction Process
Officials have released preliminary guidelines designed to make the rebuilding of Lahaina’s commercial district more efficient and coordinated. The proposed framework aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles while ensuring proper oversight of the reconstruction efforts. Streamlined permitting processes could accelerate timeline for reopening businesses in historic Lahaina Guidelines focus on balancing rapid reconstruction with preservation of […]