Maui Council Discusses Cultural Preserve Designations for Mapulehu and Hamakualoa Areas

Maui County officials are taking significant steps to protect and honor local cultural sites, as discussions around two new bills aimed at designating Mapulehu and Hamakualoa as cultural preserves gained momentum during a recent government meeting. The initiative, led by a county representative, emphasizes the importance of naming and recognizing these areas to foster a deeper connection between the community and the land.

The representative acknowledged a previous oversight in not consulting the Malama Hamakua Loa Hui before advancing the legislation, expressing a commitment to continue the dialogue in future meetings. "This conversation has been overdue," they stated, highlighting the need for necessary protections and resources for these historically significant sites.

The proposed bills are seen as a starting point for a broader conversation about stewardship and community involvement in caring for these areas, which have been neglected by the county for years. The representative stressed that naming these places is not just about titles; it’s about building relationships and understanding the cultural significance of the land. "When you know their names, they're no longer strangers," they remarked, underscoring the emotional connection to the 'aina.

While the bills currently focus on naming, there are questions about how this designation might affect zoning and land use. Legal counsel clarified that the bills are primarily about recognition and do not change existing zoning laws or land use regulations at this stage.

The meeting also opened the floor for community input, with members expressing a desire to protect other cultural sites in East Maui. The representative assured attendees that the intention behind the bills is to create a framework for future discussions on resource allocation and community rules tailored to each area.

As Maui County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering a sense of kuleana—responsibility—toward the land and its cultural heritage, paving the way for a more engaged and informed community.