Maui Commission reviews $39M housing plan and addresses homeowner financing shortcomings

Homeowner financing took center stage at the Hawaiian Homes Commission meeting on March 17, 2025, as officials grappled with significant budget discrepancies impacting Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. The discussion highlighted a critical shortfall in funding for homeowner financing, with an allocation of $11.7 million deemed insufficient against the rising costs of homes, particularly in Maui, where prices have soared to nearly $700,000.

Commissioner Kainoa raised alarms over the math, asserting that to adequately support potential applicants seeking NAHASDA funding, the department would require at least $16.4 million. She proposed reallocating $7.5 million from developer financing to bolster homeowner financing, emphasizing the urgent need to address the housing crisis for beneficiaries.

The meeting also spotlighted the need for increased support for the homeowner assistance program, particularly for Kupuna (elders) in areas like Nanakuli and Paukukalo. A proposed $2 million allocation could help 20 households repair substandard homes, but concerns were raised about the accessibility of the application process for older residents, many of whom struggle with technology.

In response to these issues, DHHL officials acknowledged the challenges faced by applicants and committed to enhancing support for Kupuna, including potential training sessions to help them navigate the application process. The conversation underscored a broader call for transparency and community engagement, with stakeholders urging the commission to prioritize the needs of beneficiaries and ensure that funding allocations effectively address the housing crisis.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for reform was palpable, with calls for collective advocacy to ensure that Native Hawaiians receive the support they are entitled to, reinforcing the importance of housing as a fundamental right for future generations.