Hale Makua Health Services proposes workforce rental housing in Kahului Community Center park

Maui County is taking significant steps to address its housing crisis with the approval of a resolution supporting the development of a workforce rental housing project. During a recent meeting of the Water Authority, Social Services, and Parks Committee, members discussed Resolution 25-139, which expresses the county's intent to facilitate a land transfer for the Kahului Community Center park site. This initiative aims to create approximately 100 rental units specifically for entry to mid-level healthcare and education workers, as well as individuals displaced by the recent Maui wildfires.

The project, spearheaded by Hale Makua Health Services in partnership with Ala Kauai Development, will ensure that rents do not exceed 30% of a resident's income. This is a crucial move to provide affordable housing options for essential workers in the community, particularly in light of the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires.

Wesley Lowe, CEO of Hale Makua Health Services, highlighted the extensive planning that has gone into this project, which has been in development for several years. The project aims to not only provide housing but also to enhance healthcare services in the area, responding to the community's needs identified through health impact assessments and surveys.

The committee also discussed the importance of maintaining access to the Kokua Pool and the community center, ensuring that these vital community resources remain available to residents. The proposed housing development will be designed to integrate seamlessly with these existing facilities, promoting a sense of community and intergenerational engagement.

In addition to the housing project, discussions included the expansion of healthcare services at the Hale Makua rehab center, which is also part of the broader recovery strategy for Maui County. The collaboration with local educational institutions aims to create pathways for healthcare workers, further supporting the community's workforce needs.

As Maui County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on creating sustainable solutions that address both housing and healthcare challenges, ultimately fostering a resilient and thriving community. The next steps will involve continued collaboration with stakeholders and the community to ensure the successful implementation of these projects.