Small-Scale Farming Support Returns to Maui with Latest Grant Opportunity
Local farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs can now apply for micro grants designed to boost Maui’s food production and farming sustainability. This funding initiative supports the island’s agricultural diversity and local food security efforts. New micro grant funding is now available to support small-scale agricultural projects across Maui The program aims to strengthen local food production […]
Potential Healthcare Service Disruptions Coming to Maui as Kaiser Workers Issue Strike Warning
Kaiser Permanente workers on Maui have given a 10-day advance notice of a potential strike that could impact healthcare services across the island. The labor action may affect medical appointments and services for both residents and visitors who rely on Kaiser facilities. Kaiser Permanente union workers have issued formal notice of a planned strike affecting […]
Community Study Proposes Solutions for Maui’s Agricultural Worker Housing Crisis
A new grassroots study has identified potential strategies to address the severe shortage of affordable housing for Maui’s agricultural workforce. The report highlights the connection between housing availability and the island’s food security and agricultural sustainability. Agricultural workers face significant housing challenges that impact Maui’s local food production and farming industry stability The report suggests […]
Strong Employment Numbers Signal Healthy Maui Economy as Tourism Season Peaks
Maui County’s unemployment rate held steady at 2.6% in November while statewide joblessness dropped to 2.2%, reflecting a robust local economy that benefits both residents seeking work and visitors enjoying fully-staffed services. Maui County maintains a 2.6% unemployment rate, indicating strong job availability across hospitality, retail, and service sectors Hawaii’s overall unemployment rate improved to […]
Court Decision Allows Hawaii to Proceed with Environmental Fee for Cruise Ship Visitors
A federal court has ruled in favor of Hawaii’s new environmental impact fee charged to cruise ship passengers, allowing the state to move forward with collecting funds aimed at addressing climate-related challenges. The court ruling validates Hawaii’s authority to implement passenger fees on cruise ships as part of environmental protection efforts Cruise passengers visiting Hawaiian […]
Lahaina Harbor Reopens with Modified Access Routes to Historic District
Harbor operations have resumed in Lahaina with new access protocols in place for the historic district area. Visitors and residents should expect adjusted entry points and potential traffic pattern changes. Lahaina Harbor has officially resumed operations following recent closures New access routes and entry protocols are now in effect for the historic district Traffic patterns […]
Maui Gets Major Power Grid Upgrade with New Battery Storage Project
Hawaiian Electric is launching construction of Maui’s first independent battery energy storage system designed to balance electrical demand throughout the day. This infrastructure improvement aims to enhance power reliability and support the island’s renewable energy goals. The new battery storage system will help smooth out daily electricity demand peaks and valleys, potentially reducing power outages […]
New Year Brings $16 Minimum Wage Across Hawaii
Hawaii’s minimum wage will rise to $16 per hour starting January 1, 2025, representing a significant increase for workers across the islands. This change may impact service costs for visitors and improve earning potential for local hospitality workers. The minimum wage increase to $16/hour takes effect statewide on January 1, 2025 Local restaurant, retail, and […]
Economic Downturn Expected for Maui While Island Rebuilds from Devastating Fires
Economists forecast a moderate economic decline for Maui as the island continues its long-term recovery from recent wildfire damage. The projected downturn reflects ongoing challenges in tourism and local business operations during the rebuilding phase. Local economists anticipate a temporary economic slowdown as Maui focuses resources on wildfire recovery efforts Tourism industry may face continued […]
Maui’s Employment Market Shows Strong Recovery with September Unemployment at Just 2.5%
Maui County’s unemployment rate fell to 2.5% in September, signaling a robust job market that benefits both local workers and the tourism industry that vacation rental guests rely on. The 2.5% unemployment rate represents a significant improvement in Maui’s job market, indicating economic recovery and stability Low unemployment typically means better staffing levels at restaurants, […]