In a pivotal meeting held at the Maui County Council, members gathered to discuss the urgent need for affordable housing in the wake of the devastating wildfires that struck the region in August 2023. The council reviewed Resolution 25-74, which authorizes the acquisition of a 357-square-foot studio unit in Lahaina for $280,000. This unit will serve as affordable rental housing specifically for kupuna, or elders, displaced by the fires.

Vice Chair Sugimura and member Paulton led the discussion, emphasizing the importance of this initiative as the eighth unit acquired under the Na Hale Kupuna program. The funding for this acquisition will come from unspent Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) CARES Act funds, which were originally intended to assist with COVID-19 pandemic-related expenses. The council members expressed their gratitude for the CDBG program's efforts, while also urging the administration to consider housing needs in Upcountry Maui as they continue to acquire units.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the sustainability of the program, particularly regarding the ongoing costs associated with homeowners' association (HOA) fees and maintenance for the units. The CDBG program manager assured the council that the remaining balance of approximately $67,891 from the CARES Act funds would be utilized for these expenses, ensuring that the units remain viable for tenants.

The council also discussed the current occupancy status of the previously acquired units, noting that only one of the seven units is currently unoccupied due to necessary repairs. The urgency of the situation was palpable, as council members recognized the pressing need for housing solutions in the community.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed a commitment to addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that future acquisitions would be inclusive of all areas within Maui County. The resolution was ultimately passed, marking a significant step forward in providing much-needed support for the kupuna affected by the wildfires.