Maui County's Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee meeting on April 19 highlighted critical community needs, particularly for the youth of Molokai and Lanai. Local leaders passionately advocated for continued funding to support student travel, emphasizing the importance of providing young athletes with opportunities to participate in sports, tournaments, and educational activities off-island.

A resident shared heartfelt memories of traveling for sports, underscoring the limited opportunities available on the islands. "The kids, coaches, volunteers, teachers, they work hard and dedicate a lot of time to these activities," they stated, calling for funds to remain available for youth travel. This sentiment resonated with many, as the community seeks to foster connections and experiences beyond their islands.

In addition to youth travel, the meeting also touched on cultural initiatives. A representative from the Lanai Filipino Community Coalition expressed a desire to revive traditional events and cultural education, highlighting the importance of reconnecting with heritage. "We had the Barrio Fiesta, which was huge," they recalled, advocating for the return of such cultural celebrations.

Diane Preza, another local resident, voiced strong support for the mayor's proposed budget, particularly for affordable housing and essential infrastructure improvements. "So many people in the community are excited to hear that there is some money being proposed for water and sewer infrastructure," she noted, reflecting a collective hope for progress in these areas.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a community united in its desire for growth, cultural preservation, and enhanced opportunities for its youth, setting the stage for potential positive changes in the coming years.