During a recent government meeting, Lahaina resident Jackie Keefe passionately urged officials to reject Bill 131, which she argues could jeopardize the health of children and the environment in Maui. Keefe, who has spent the past year engaging with local generational farmers and ecological projects, highlighted the dangers of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, stating they degrade soil health and pose risks to public safety.

Keefe emphasized the importance of prioritizing sustainable agricultural practices, advocating for organic alternatives such as compost and biological control methods. She criticized the tendency to make decisions based solely on financial considerations, calling for a shift towards indigenous economic practices that value ecological health.

In her testimony, Keefe proposed the implementation of mandatory composting programs to reduce landfill waste and methane emissions, stressing the need for easier access to composting resources for residents. She concluded her remarks by urging the government to choose environmentally responsible options that align with community values, firmly requesting the rejection of Bill 131 to protect the future of Maui's families and ecosystems.

The meeting continued with no immediate questions for Keefe, and the next testifier, Tony Cross, was called to speak.