Maui County debates Bill 40 to prioritize local residents for affordable housing

The Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee convened on May 14, 2025, to discuss critical amendments to housing policies aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis affecting local residents. A significant focus of the meeting was on Bill 40, which seeks to enhance affordable housing protections for long-term residents of Maui.

During the session, community member Kaina Shiki, representing Maui Nui Resiliency Hui, emphasized the urgency of the housing crisis, highlighting the displacement of long-time residents from their ancestral homes. Shiki expressed strong support for Bill 40 but urged the committee to incorporate provisions from Bill 111, which prioritizes long-term residents in housing lotteries. This amendment aims to ensure that families who have lived in Maui for generations are not sidelined in favor of newcomers.

Shiki articulated a concern that the current language of Bill 40 allows individuals with as little as three years of residency to compete for housing alongside lifelong residents. "This is not housing justice," Shiki stated, calling for a system that protects the interests of those who have deep roots in the community. The testimony underscored the need for policies that prioritize local families over speculative development, which has increasingly threatened the affordability and availability of housing on the island.

Another key point raised during the meeting was the necessity for improved communication between the county and the public regarding legislative changes. A community member expressed frustration over last-minute amendments, advocating for more timely updates to help residents stay informed about important developments.

The committee members acknowledged the importance of these discussions, with some expressing a desire to explore technological solutions for managing housing lotteries more transparently. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further consider the proposed amendments and their implications for Maui's housing landscape.

As Maui County continues to grapple with housing challenges, the outcomes of this meeting could significantly impact the future of affordable housing and the well-being of its residents. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining how effectively they can balance the needs of long-term residents with the pressures of a growing population and housing market.