Housing for Maui

The last few weeks of 2023 emphasized the overwhelming need of housing provisions for displaced residents impacted by the wildfire. While many groups sorted through ideas presented from private and public sectors, stories and findings presented at a few key meetings led to recent responses by county and state leaders. On November 28th, Mayor Bissen announced in a press release, efforts to increase housing inventory for displaced residents by encouraging short-term rentals to be converted to long term rentals. On December 15th, Governor Green further endorsed such efforts with a moratorium consideration announcement on short term rentals.

Maui Hotel and Lodging Association attended and participated in multiple thought gatherings relevant to housing matters, including but not limited to, The Native Hawaiian Convention, State Security Conference, County Economic Recovery Group, Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Working Group Meeting, Red Cross Leaders and Mayor’s Office Meeting, DBEDT Pathways to Recovery Seminars, AIA Meetings, HTA’s “Tourism’s Role in Supporting Maui’s Recovery” Meeting, and Pacific Business News’ Maui Business Panel. Gatherings have given MHLA the following conclusive priority for the upcoming legislative session:

MHLA recognizes the urgent need for comprehensive and compassionate support for Maui residents displaced by recent fires. The devastating impact on homes and communities demands a swift and effective response to the immediate housing crisis. We encourage collaboration among government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders to pool resources and expertise. A coordinated effort is essential to efficiently address the multifaceted challenges of providing housing solutions for those affected by the fires. We support the development and implementation of attainable housing initiatives tailored to the specific needs of displaced residents. This may include expedited approvals for temporary housing structures, financial assistance programs, and partnerships with local builders to construct affordable housing units rapidly. Additionally, we call for a review of regulatory barriers that may hinder the swift deployment of housing solutions. This includes streamlining permitting processes and temporarily relaxing certain zoning restrictions to facilitate the rapid construction of temporary and permanent housing options.

On Friday, January 5, 2023, State, County and nonprofits announced a collective goal is to move all individuals and families who are in short-term hotels into long-term stable housing by July 1, 2024. A collective funding of $500,000,000 was announced at a live press conference and in press releases, see HERE.

Furthermore, upon invite from the Governor’s office, MHLA is a serving member of the Maui Economic Recovery Commission (ERC) for the 2024 year and will continue to relay pertinent information on such matters to our members.

More of our legislative priorities, see our Position Statement Webpage.

Photo Credit: Maui Economic Recovery Commission on January 5th, 2024