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 significant draw for both local athletes and visiting runners
• Visitors planning to participate should register soon as shorter distances may also fill up
• The race weekend will bring increased activity and excitement to the Maui community

Source: Maui News

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 suitable for West Maui's climate
• The guide emphasizes creating defensible space around structures through strategic plant placement and regular vegetation management
• Specific maintenance schedules and watering practices are outlined to keep landscapes both beautiful and fire-safe year-round
• Local nurseries and contractors familiar with fire-resilient landscaping techniques are highlighted as resources for implementation
• The recommendations support both wildfire prevention and the ongoing recovery efforts in Lahaina's rebuilding process

Source: Maui Now

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, infrastructure, and tourism management
• Election results could impact policies affecting both residents and the visitor industry on Maui
• County leadership decisions influence everything from beach access to vacation rental regulations
• The election timeline and other candidates' platforms will shape the campaign season ahead

Source: Maui Now

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 role is crucial for balancing community needs with tourism infrastructure development on the island
• This appointment comes at a time when Maui faces ongoing discussions about sustainable development and housing affordability
• The position directly influences permitting processes for new construction projects, including resort and vacation rental properties
• Local residents and business owners can expect the new director to shape policies affecting land use and development standards island-wide

Source: Maui Now

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 development, healthcare access improvements, and climate change adaptation measures (Maui Now)
• House Majority will focus on economic recovery initiatives, education funding, and infrastructure modernization projects (Maui Now)
• Both chambers emphasize the need for continued support for Maui wildfire recovery and rebuilding efforts
• Legislators aim to address the state's housing crisis through zoning reforms and increased funding for affordable housing projects
• Climate resilience and renewable energy initiatives remain high priorities for both the Senate and House majorities
• Economic diversification efforts will target reducing Hawaii's dependence on tourism while supporting local businesses

Sources

• Maui Now
• Maui Now

Congressman Ed Case has backed the 2026 federal spending package that includes significant funding for Hawaiʻi infrastructure projects and community programs that will benefit both residents and visitors to Maui.

• Federal funding secured for critical infrastructure improvements across Hawaiʻi, including transportation and utility projects that enhance visitor experience
• Community development programs receive continued support, helping maintain the quality of life that makes Maui an attractive destination
• Investment in local projects supports job creation and economic stability in the tourism and hospitality sectors
• Infrastructure upgrades will improve accessibility and services for both residents and the millions of visitors who come to Maui annually

Source: Maui Now

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
• The project includes installation of modern restroom facilities to serve harbor users and visitors
• A new wastewater treatment system is being implemented as part of the harbor's infrastructure modernization efforts
• The construction represents a significant investment in improving public amenities at the popular boating destination

Sources

• Maui News
• Maui Now

The PGA Tour's upcoming schedule reduction for 2027 has put Hawaii's premier golf events, The Sentry and Sony Open, at risk of being eliminated. This could significantly impact Maui's tourism industry and the broader Hawaiian golf scene.

• The Sentry tournament at Kapalua's Plantation Course and Oahu's Sony Open may be cut from the 2027 PGA Tour schedule
• Hawaii's golf tournaments traditionally kick off the PGA Tour season, drawing thousands of visitors to the islands each January
• Loss of these events could mean reduced tourism revenue for Maui hotels, restaurants, and local businesses that benefit from golf fans
• The schedule downsizing is part of the PGA Tour's broader restructuring efforts following recent changes in professional golf
• Final decisions on which tournaments will be retained are still pending, leaving Hawaii's golf tourism industry in limbo

Source: Maui Now

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 Lahaina's cultural character
• New framework may reduce costs and complexity for business owners looking to rebuild
• Coordinated approach aims to prevent piecemeal development and ensure cohesive district restoration
• Public input period expected before final guidelines are adopted and implemented

Source: Maui Now

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 strengthen fire safety oversight across the islands
• Enhanced wildfire preparedness measures will improve safety protocols for both residents and vacation rental guests
• The initiative represents a proactive approach to preventing devastating wildfires like those experienced in recent years
• Improved fire safety infrastructure will benefit the tourism industry and provide greater peace of mind for visitors

Source: Maui Now