Maui Council discusses affordable housing and infrastructure needs in community meeting

The Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee meeting held on April 14, 2025, focused on pressing community concerns, particularly around affordable housing and public infrastructure. Chair Yuki Lei Sugimura opened the session by emphasizing the importance of community input, inviting residents to share their thoughts on the county's budget.

One of the most significant discussions came from Tom Reetz, a member of the Kihei Community Association, who highlighted the urgent need for affordable workforce housing. He urged the committee to augment budget line items related to housing, referencing a housing gap analysis that indicates Maui requires nearly 14,000 additional units to meet future demand. Reetz proposed a comprehensive strategy that includes assessing infrastructure needs and prioritizing affordable housing developments over luxury projects. His testimony resonated with many attendees, reflecting a shared concern about the rising cost of living and housing shortages in the area.

Linda Puopolo, executive director of the Maui AIDS Foundation, also spoke passionately about public health, linking untreated sexually transmitted infections to serious health issues, including cancer. She expressed gratitude for the council's support and emphasized the importance of community health initiatives, particularly for younger residents.

Patricia Haskin raised safety concerns regarding local infrastructure, specifically advocating for the completion of the North South Collector Road to ensure safe evacuation routes during emergencies. She also called for funding to convert cesspools to a proper sewer treatment system, citing environmental and health implications for the community.

Audrey Lester, representing the Kihei Community Association, echoed Haskin's concerns about the Collector Road, urging the committee to expedite its development to alleviate traffic congestion and improve access to essential services.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for proactive measures to address housing, health, and infrastructure challenges. As the committee continues to gather public input, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping Maui County's budget and development strategies for the coming years. Residents are encouraged to remain engaged and voice their concerns as the county navigates these critical issues.