Maui Council discusses Bill to amend vacation rental regulations

The Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee convened on June 24, 2025, to address a single agenda item concerning Bill 9, which proposes amendments to the Maui County Code related to transit vacation rentals and apartment districts. The meeting, which began at 5:00 PM, was a continuation from previous sessions held on June 9, 18, and 23.

Chairperson welcomed attendees, including council members and staff, and emphasized the importance of public testimony in the meeting's proceedings. The committee is expected to hear testimony until 8:00 PM, with the possibility of recessing to June 25 at 1:00 PM if necessary due to the volume of speakers. A mid-meeting break was also scheduled for 6:30 PM.

The chair outlined the process for public testimony, indicating that priority would be given to those who had previously signed up but did not get a chance to speak, followed by new participants. This structured approach aims to ensure that all voices are heard while adhering to the Sunshine Law, which governs public meetings in Hawaii.

As the meeting progressed, the committee focused on gathering input from community members regarding the proposed changes to the regulations governing vacation rentals, reflecting ongoing concerns about housing and land use in Maui County. The discussions are part of a broader effort to address housing challenges and the impact of tourism on local communities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue the dialogue and consider all testimony before making any decisions on the bill. The committee's next steps will depend on the feedback received during this session and any subsequent meetings scheduled to further discuss the implications of the proposed amendments.