In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) that facilitated the construction of a hotel in South Maui. Community members expressed frustration over the lack of legal clarity from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) on how the MoA could be utilized to protect local resources, particularly in relation to water usage and pollution stemming from the hotel site.

The discussions highlighted the detrimental impact of the hotel on local fisheries and traditional salt ponds, with community representatives noting a severe depletion of marine life in Kahamanini Bay. They emphasized that the MoA was pivotal in granting the hotel the right to develop the area, which is rich in cultural and historical significance.

Officials acknowledged the need for further investigation into the MoA's current validity, particularly in light of changes in ownership and new burial laws enacted in 1990. They committed to reviewing the MoA's implications and ensuring compliance with legal standards, while also clarifying the community's requests for action.

The meeting concluded with a promise to provide updates on the MoA's status by the end of the week, underscoring the community's urgent call for accountability in the face of ongoing environmental and cultural concerns.