On April 19, 2025, the Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee convened to discuss critical funding issues affecting local programs, particularly those aimed at youth development and community engagement. The meeting highlighted the importance of the STEM Works program and youth sports initiatives on Lanai, emphasizing their role in providing essential opportunities for the island's youth.

Adam Purdy, a local educator and director at the Lanai Academy of Performing Arts, passionately advocated for the continuation of the STEM Works program. He shared his personal journey, illustrating how early exposure to science and technology through this program shaped his career as a licensed drone operator and private pilot. Purdy expressed concern that cutting funding for STEM Works would not merely affect a budget line but would significantly diminish opportunities for Lanai's youth, who already face limited extracurricular options. He noted that without such programs, children might resort to unproductive activities due to a lack of constructive outlets.

The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by youth sports programs on Lanai. Mary Lou Calcayano, a local coach, highlighted the difficulties in accessing grant funding necessary for youth sports. She pointed out that while the community is eager to participate in sports, the lack of adequate funding and support from the Parks and Recreation Department hampers their efforts. Calcayano emphasized the need for better access to resources and training on how to navigate the grant system, which she described as a significant barrier to securing necessary funds.

In addition to youth programs, Kari Bogner from the Lanai Culture and Heritage Center spoke in support of budget allocations for feral animal control, linking it to broader community stewardship efforts. She noted the success of the free resident hunting program, which not only helps manage the island's wildlife but also fosters intergenerational participation and community bonding.

The meeting underscored the interconnectedness of funding decisions and community well-being in Maui County. As local leaders consider the budget for the upcoming years, the testimonies from community members reflect a pressing need for continued investment in programs that nurture youth development and community engagement. The discussions will likely influence future budget allocations, as the committee weighs the importance of these programs against the backdrop of limited resources.