Grassroots Institute backs bills to enable Front Street rebuilds and supports ADU resolution to boost housing supply
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Summary
The Grassroots Institute of Hawaii and other witnesses told the council they support Bills 110 and 156 for Front Street rebuild flexibility and backed a resolution to allow two accessory dwelling units per lot across the island to increase housing options.
Jonathan Helton of the Grassroots Institute of Hawaii testified in support of Bill 110 and Bill 156, saying the measures would help properties on Front Street rebuild in a way that "could look and feel close to the old built environment" and preserve the street’s pre‑fire aesthetic. Helton also supported a county resolution that would allow two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) per lot island‑wide, describing ADUs as a way for homeowners to add housing stock affordably for family members or renters.
Helton argued accessory dwellings tend to be smaller and therefore less expensive, and that infill development and ADUs align with some Maui community planning goals by reducing pressure for sprawl into rural areas. The transcript shows support from the Grassroots Institute and no recorded opposing public testimony in the provided segment; the council did not record a vote in the excerpt.