During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the escalating rental prices in Maui County, highlighting the dire need for rent stabilization measures. Presenters shared data from Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, revealing that median rents have surged dramatically in 2023, with three-bedroom homes averaging around $3,510 per month. A shared bedroom in a house was reported at $1,600, while a one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath house in Kihei commanded a staggering $3,210 monthly.

One resident recounted their personal experience of being wrongfully evicted and now paying $4,000 for a three-bedroom rental, emphasizing the emotional toll and financial strain on families. The community's frustration was palpable, as they expressed disappointment over the slow response from local authorities to the housing crisis, urging for immediate action to address the skyrocketing rents that have plagued residents for the past four years.

The presenters argued that all local residents deserve access to dignified and affordable housing, stating, \"Our lives are not your investment.\" They called for mandatory rent stabilization, asserting that it would provide essential stability for tenants while ensuring reasonable returns for landlords.

Research presented during the meeting challenged the common belief that increasing housing supply would lead to lower rents. Studies indicated that adding new units had minimal impact on rent reductions, with findings showing that for every 100 new units, rents decreased by only 0.4% to 0.7%. This data underscored the complexity of the housing market and the pressing need for effective policy interventions to protect vulnerable tenants in Maui County.

The meeting concluded with a call for action, as community members reiterated their demand for immediate support and solutions to the ongoing housing crisis.