Residents of Maui are calling for urgent action on rent stabilization as the island grapples with a housing crisis exacerbated by recent disasters and rising living costs. During a recent government meeting, Christine Kapioho, a long-time resident and disaster case manager, highlighted the struggles faced by renters, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly. She shared the story of a 70-year-old woman who, after losing her affordable rental, was offered a new unit at a price far beyond her means, illustrating the dire situation many face.

Kapioho emphasized that mandatory rent stabilization is essential for maintaining affordable housing for essential workers in Maui, who are increasingly unable to afford living in the community they serve. She argued that while concerns exist about potential impacts on new development, successful models from other cities demonstrate that it is possible to protect tenants while allowing for growth.

Alana Kaye, an organizer with the Maui Tenants and Workers Association, echoed these sentiments, stating that Maui is in a crisis due to extreme income disparity and skyrocketing housing prices. She warned that the lifting of the moratorium on rent increases could lead to further displacement of residents, which would have catastrophic effects on the local economy as businesses struggle to find staff.

Kaye proposed a rent stabilization bill modeled after successful initiatives on the mainland, advocating for moderate annual rent increases and residency requirements to ensure that local workers can afford to live in their community. She criticized current affordable housing proposals that rely on developers and investors, arguing they fail to provide lasting solutions for the workforce.

Both speakers called for immediate legislative action to implement rent stabilization measures, stressing the need for policies that prioritize the voices of local residents and workers in the ongoing housing crisis.