The Maui County Water Authority, Social Services, and Parks Committee convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss critical community needs as part of the 2025 Community Needs Assessment Survey. The meeting, chaired by Shane Senenci, began with a reminder for attendees to silence their devices and identify anyone present with them, in accordance with the Sunshine Law.

The primary focus of the meeting was the overview of the community needs assessment survey, which aims to gather data on various social services and resources required by residents. David Pettinger, a senior partner at Anthology Research, was designated as a resource for the meeting due to his expertise in community assessments. This highlights the committee's commitment to informed decision-making based on comprehensive data.

During the meeting, public testimony was invited, although only one individual, JC Law, signed up to speak. Law expressed his appreciation for the presentation from the Department of Human Concerns, noting the importance of addressing the needs of aging and disabled residents, as well as immigrant services. His comments reflect a growing awareness of the diverse needs within the community, emphasizing the necessity for targeted support and resources.

The absence of additional public testimony suggests a potential gap in community engagement, raising questions about how effectively the committee is reaching out to residents. This could indicate a need for improved communication strategies to ensure that all voices are heard in future assessments.

As the committee continues its work, the insights gathered from the community needs assessment will be crucial in shaping policies and programs that address the pressing issues faced by Maui County residents. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between government officials and community members to foster a more inclusive and responsive local government. Future meetings will likely build on this foundation, aiming to enhance the quality of life for all residents in Maui County.