Maui Meals on Wheels addresses meal quality and staffing pay concerns

The Maui County Water Authority, Social Services, and Parks Committee convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting community services, particularly focusing on the Meals on Wheels program and its operational challenges.

The meeting began with a discussion on the importance of the Meals on Wheels delivery service, which not only provides food but also serves as a vital social connection for many seniors. Committee members emphasized the need for appropriate compensation for the workers involved in this service, highlighting the challenges of filling positions in bargaining units 3 and 13 due to non-competitive salaries. Ongoing discussions with the Department of Personnel Services (DPS) were noted, with a focus on creating a supplemental agreement to address these pay issues.

Member Palton raised concerns regarding the quality of meals provided, particularly on Molokai, where feedback indicated dissatisfaction with the food options. The committee acknowledged the variability in meal quality, which is influenced by the autonomy of individual school kitchen managers. Efforts to improve meal quality were discussed, including the potential for using more locally sourced food items. The recent passing of a kitchen manager on Molokai had disrupted progress, but the current transitional assistant has resumed discussions with the Department of Education to enhance the menu.

Additionally, the committee announced plans to reopen the congregate center in West Maui during the summer, aiming to further support community engagement and services.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to improving social services in Maui County, particularly for vulnerable populations, while addressing staffing and quality challenges within the Meals on Wheels program. The committee plans to continue its efforts to enhance service delivery and ensure that community needs are met effectively.