Maui County Commission Unanimously Recommends Code Amendment for Lanai City Development

The Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding local land use policies, particularly focusing on a proposed code amendment aimed at enhancing the unique character of Lanai City.

The meeting began with a presentation advocating for Bill 21, CD 1, which seeks to amend the Maui County code to better reflect the distinct needs of the community. A commissioner emphasized that the current code is not a "one size fits all" solution and highlighted the importance of policies that align with the Lanai community plan, which promotes walkability and context-sensitive development. The bill has garnered unanimous support from the commission and the local community, with a request for its passage during the meeting.

During the discussion, a member of the committee, Paulton, raised clarifying questions regarding community engagement in the planning process. The testifier confirmed their presence at all planning commission hearings and noted that there had been multiple community meetings, including participation at the Pineapple Festival, where excitement for the project was evident. The testifier also mentioned that the project had previously been presented to the Cultural Resource Commission, although it was clarified that the building in question was not part of a historic district. The additional review was prompted by the building's age, as it was over 50 years old.

The committee learned that the demolition of the building had already been completed, with the project expected to finish by December 2025. The community's enthusiasm for the project was reiterated, indicating a strong local support for the ongoing developments in Lanai City.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of adapting land use policies to fit the unique context of Maui County, particularly in Lanai, where community involvement and support play a crucial role in shaping future developments. The committee's discussions set the stage for the potential passage of Bill 21, CD 1, reflecting a commitment to responsive governance in land use planning.