The Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee reconvened on June 18, 2025, to discuss Bill 9, which aims to phase out short-term rentals (STRs) on the "minotaur list." The meeting featured passionate testimonies from community members, highlighting the ongoing housing crisis in Maui and the implications of the proposed legislation.

The first speaker, a representative from Na Po e Kokua, urged the committee to support Bill 9, emphasizing its importance for native Hawaiians to live on ancestral land. The speaker articulated a sense of urgency, stating that the housing issue has persisted for decades and that immediate action is necessary to prevent further displacement of local families. They framed the bill as a critical step toward creating a stable foundation for future generations.

Following this, Sunny Cave, a condo owner and part-time resident, expressed opposition to Bill 9. He argued that broad STR bans have failed in other tourist-dependent areas, leading to litigation and community divisions without improving housing availability. Cave pointed out that the Ma'alaia units were designed for transient use and that the bill could exacerbate Maui's economic fragility, especially given the recent decline in tourism. He urged the committee to consider more targeted and compassionate approaches to address housing needs while maintaining economic stability.

Matt Tarasenko, a real estate broker managing vacation rentals, also opposed Bill 9, highlighting the potential job losses in the hospitality industry and the broader negative impact on local businesses. He stressed the interconnectedness of the housing market and the local economy, warning that the bill could have devastating effects beyond the immediate scope of STRs.

The committee members engaged with the testifiers, seeking clarification on various points raised during the testimonies. The discussions underscored the complexity of balancing housing needs with economic considerations in Maui.

As the meeting concluded, the committee faced the challenge of addressing the housing crisis while considering the diverse perspectives of community members and the potential economic ramifications of their decisions. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the bill and its implications for Maui's future.