Maui Council approves multiple bills on wastewater, groundwater, and flood hazard management

During the recent Maui County Council meeting held on April 17, 2025, several key bills and resolutions were discussed that aim to address pressing community needs, particularly in the areas of water management, flood hazard mitigation, and affordable housing.

One of the most significant actions taken was the passage of Bill 16, which authorizes the mayor to settle safety violations at the Kihei Wastewater Reclamation Facility. This settlement follows a series of inspections by the Hawaii Occupational Safety and Health Division (HIOSH), and all identified violations have reportedly been resolved. The proactive monitoring efforts initiated by the county are expected to enhance safety and compliance at the facility.

Another critical piece of legislation, Bill 19, was also approved. This bill allows the mayor to enter into an agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey for a comprehensive groundwater availability study in West Maui. As the region faces increasing water demands, this study will be jointly funded and is intended to inform sustainable water resource planning and future well development.

Additionally, Bill 28 was passed to amend the Maui County Code regarding flood hazard areas. This amendment enables the county to designate flood-prone areas, even if they are not currently marked on FEMA's flood insurance rate maps. This is particularly relevant for areas like Lahaina, where new flood risks have emerged following recent wildfires.

The council also addressed affordable housing through Bill 33, which amends the fiscal year 2025 budget to allocate funds for affordable housing initiatives. This move reflects the ongoing commitment of the council to tackle the housing crisis in Maui County.

In a related discussion, Resolution 25-80 was adopted, authorizing an application for a Community Development Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This grant will support five projects with a total funding allocation of approximately $1.87 million, aimed at enhancing community development efforts.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the Kawikahi Village workforce housing project, where members expressed the need for accountability regarding the use of funds intended for the Department of Hawaiian Homelands. The council is seeking to ensure that any funds allocated for infrastructure projects are used appropriately and that agreements with state agencies are formalized.

Overall, the council's decisions during this meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing the immediate needs of Maui County residents, particularly in water management, safety compliance, and affordable housing development. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to have a lasting impact on the community as they work towards sustainable solutions for pressing local issues.