Maui County Council supports Molokai land acquisition with Molokai Heritage Trust

Maui County Council has taken a significant step towards preserving vital lands on Molokai by adopting Resolution 25-105, which supports the county's intent to acquire real property in Kanekakai. This resolution, passed during the regular meeting on May 2, 2025, aims to execute a memorandum of understanding with the Molokai Heritage Trust for the acquisition of lands critical to the community.

The resolution highlights the long-standing efforts of the Molokai community to secure ancestral lands for community ownership. It emphasizes the importance of these lands for the well-being of residents and the county's operations. Since 1981, the county has leased 5.411 acres in the area, but ongoing annual renegotiations have raised concerns about potentially unfavorable terms that could jeopardize access to essential services.

The council's decision to support this acquisition is framed as a public interest initiative, with plans to appropriate at least $30 million for the purchase. This funding will not only secure the land currently used by county facilities but also other properties of interest to the Molokai community.

Regular updates on the progress of this endeavor will be provided to the council, ensuring transparency and community engagement as the county collaborates with the Molokai Heritage Trust and other partners. The resolution marks a pivotal moment for the community, aiming to protect and enhance lands that hold significant cultural and practical value for the residents of Molokai and Maui County as a whole.