During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the housing crisis in Maui, advocating for mandatory rent stabilization measures. One resident, a 73-year-old Kihei local, shared her personal experience of facing a 25% rent increase after living in her home for over a decade. She highlighted the growing number of individuals in similar situations, revealing that many residents are unaware of the extent of the housing crisis affecting the island.

The speaker emphasized that Maui ranks third in the nation for rent burden, with 56.7% of residents considered cost-burdened, trailing only Florida and Nevada. She pointed out that 44% of Maui residents struggle to meet basic survival budgets, underscoring the dire financial situation many families face. The resident also noted that a significant portion of short-term rental owners do not reside on the island, raising questions about local priorities and support for the community.

Krisna Bayudan, representing the Maui Tenants and Workers Association, echoed these sentiments, calling for immediate action on rent stabilization. As a lifelong Lahaina resident and survivor of the recent devastating fire, Bayudan shared her family's immigrant story and the challenges they faced in building a life on the island. Both speakers urged local officials to prioritize the needs of residents over external interests, emphasizing the importance of community support in addressing the ongoing housing crisis.