Maui County is hosting a public open house on February 25 to educate residents and property owners about new water conservation rules taking effect March 1, 2026. The informational session will provide an opportunity for community members to learn about the regulations and ask questions before implementation begins.

• New water conservation rules will take effect on March 1, 2026 (Maui Now)
• Public open house scheduled for February 25, 2026 to inform residents about the upcoming regulations (Maui Now)
• The information session will provide residents with details about Maui's new water conservation requirements (Maui News)
• Community members will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about compliance with the new rules (Maui News)

Sources

• Maui News
• Maui Now

Senator Schatz has announced $1 million in federal funding for runway maintenance and improvements at Molokai Airport. The investment will enhance safety and accessibility for travelers visiting the island.

• Molokai Airport will receive $1 million in federal funding for critical runway repairs and upgrades
• The improvements are expected to enhance flight safety and operational reliability for inter-island travel
• Enhanced airport infrastructure will benefit both residents needing medical or business travel and tourists exploring Molokai
• The funding demonstrates continued federal support for maintaining Hawaii's inter-island transportation network
• Visitors to Maui planning day trips or extended stays on Molokai can expect improved airport facilities

Source: Maui News

Drivers should expect nighttime lane closures on Pu'unene Avenue as crews work to activate new traffic signal systems. The work is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements in the area.

• Pu'unene Avenue will experience overnight closures for traffic signal installation and switchover work
• The project involves upgrading traffic control systems to improve traffic flow and safety
• Motorists should plan alternate routes during nighttime hours when work is scheduled
• Construction crews are working during off-peak hours to minimize disruption to daily commuters
• The improvements are part of broader infrastructure enhancements in Central Maui

Source: Maui Now

A crucial workshop for Lahaina commercial permitting has been postponed to February 18th due to adverse weather conditions affecting the area.

• The Lahaina commercial permitting workshop will now take place on February 18th instead of the originally scheduled date
• Weather conditions in the area forced officials to reschedule the important business-focused meeting
• This workshop is significant for local business owners and entrepreneurs looking to navigate commercial permitting processes
• The delay may impact timelines for businesses planning to open or expand operations in the Lahaina area
• Residents and business owners should mark the new February 18th date and plan accordingly for this rescheduled session

Source: Maui Now

Mayor Bissen has issued an emergency proclamation to prepare Maui County for incoming severe weather that could impact residents and visitors. The declaration activates emergency resources and allows for rapid response coordination across the island.

• Emergency proclamation enables county officials to quickly mobilize resources and coordinate with state and federal agencies
• Residents and visitors should prepare for potential power outages, flooding, and transportation disruptions
• County shelters and emergency services are being activated and prepared for potential evacuations if needed
• Travelers should monitor flight schedules and road conditions, as weather may impact airport operations and highway access
• Emergency management officials recommend stocking up on essential supplies including water, food, medications, and flashlights

Source: Maui Now

The state has announced enhancement plans for the heavily-used Mala boat ramp in Lahaina, promising improved access and facilities for both residents and visitors who use the popular ocean entry point.

• Upgrades will enhance the boat launch experience at one of West Maui's most popular ocean access points
• Improvements are expected to reduce congestion and waiting times during peak usage periods
• Enhanced facilities will benefit both local fishermen and tourists seeking ocean recreation activities
• The project addresses long-standing infrastructure needs at this critical marine access location
• Timeline and specific improvement details will help vacation rental guests plan water activities accordingly

Source: Maui Now

Upcountry Maui residents and visitors should prepare for water service interruptions due to emergency infrastructure repairs. The outage will affect daily activities and accommodations in the area.

• Water service disruption planned for Upcountry Maui areas due to urgent infrastructure repairs
• Residents and vacation rental guests should stock up on water for drinking, cooking, and basic needs
• Local businesses and restaurants in affected areas may experience service limitations
• Visitors staying in Upcountry accommodations should check with their hosts about backup water arrangements
• Emergency repairs are necessary to maintain long-term water system reliability for the community

Source: Maui Now

Local residents in Kapalua are voicing strong opposition to planned water utility rate increases and additional service fees that could impact both homeowners and vacation rental properties in the area.

• Kapalua residents are organizing opposition efforts against upcoming water rate increases that would affect all properties in the area
• New utility charges are being proposed in addition to the rate increases, creating potential double impact on property operating costs
• The fee changes could affect vacation rental operating expenses and potentially influence rental rates for visitors
• Community members are actively engaging in the public process to contest these utility cost increases
• Both residential and commercial properties, including vacation rentals, would see higher monthly water and utility bills if approved

Source: Maui Now

The Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization is offering a complimentary webinar to help local property owners navigate the growing national crisis in wildfire insurance coverage.

• Local property owners and residents can attend at no cost to learn about wildfire insurance options and challenges
• The workshop addresses the nationwide insurance crisis that particularly impacts fire-prone areas like Maui
• Expert guidance will be provided on protecting properties and understanding coverage options in high-risk wildfire zones
• This educational opportunity comes as Maui continues recovery efforts and works to improve wildfire preparedness
• The session offers valuable information for both residential property owners and those managing vacation rental properties

Source: Maui Now

Maui County is advancing legislation inspired by Vienna's housing model that would require surplus rental housing funds to be reinvested directly into creating more affordable housing units. This initiative aims to address the island's ongoing housing shortage that affects both residents and the tourism workforce.

• New bill prevents rental housing fund money from sitting unused by mandating surpluses go toward building more affordable units
• Vienna-inspired approach could significantly increase housing availability for local workers in hospitality and service industries
• Improved housing supply may help stabilize the local workforce that supports Maui's vacation rental and tourism sectors
• Legislation addresses long-standing concerns about housing fund effectiveness in tackling Maui's affordability crisis
• Better housing options for residents could reduce displacement pressures that have impacted local communities

Source: Maui Now