In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the long-standing issue of \"paper housing\" projects in West Maui, which have failed to materialize despite being planned since the 1980s. The term refers to housing developments that have received entitlements but remain unbuilt, creating unrealistic expectations for community members and complicating future planning efforts.

Member Polson raised concerns about the impact of these stagnant projects on the county's ability to develop new housing, emphasizing that the existence of these entitlements is hindering progress on viable projects. He noted that many proposed developments have languished for years, leading to a focus on projects that are ready to move forward rather than those that are merely on paper.

The housing department acknowledged the issue, stating that while the county does not control private developers' decisions to hold onto properties, the lack of movement on these projects is problematic. The conversation highlighted the need for a more realistic approach to planning, as the current situation is driving development towards less desirable areas, such as agricultural zones, due to the inflated value of land tied up in unbuilt projects.

Legal counsel was consulted regarding the possibility of implementing sunset provisions for entitlements, which could allow the county to revert properties back to agricultural use if development does not proceed within a specified timeframe. While such measures have been taken at the state level, the feasibility of similar actions at the county level remains uncertain.

Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges faced by West Maui in addressing housing shortages and the complexities introduced by long-standing, unfulfilled development plans. The officials expressed a commitment to refocusing efforts on projects that can realistically meet the community's housing needs.