The Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee convened on April 19, 2025, to discuss critical funding needs for the Molokai Police Department, focusing on the relocation and renovation of the National Guard Armory as a new police station. The meeting highlighted urgent safety concerns regarding the current police facility, which has been in use since 1979 and is located in a flood zone.

Captain Winfrey of the Maui Police Department presented a request for $18 million to renovate the decommissioned National Guard Armory. He emphasized that the current facility is inadequate, often flooding during heavy rains, which hampers the department's ability to respond effectively to emergencies. The proposed renovation aims to create a modern headquarters equipped with essential technology and adequate space, ensuring operational stability for the next 25 years.

Officer Emmanuel Bello, a community police officer on Molokai, supported the relocation, citing deteriorating conditions at the current station, including plumbing issues and inadequate facilities for holding cells. He also requested an additional $20,000 for a summer youth leadership program, highlighting the importance of community engagement.

Kimberly Ka'ai, principal of Mauna Loa Elementary School and wife of a police officer, echoed the need for improved facilities. She stressed that a well-functioning police department is vital for community safety and that investing in the police station sends a positive message about the value placed on public safety.

Detective Ikaika Bishaw also voiced strong support for the relocation, sharing personal experiences of the challenges faced by officers in the current facility. He noted the risks associated with natural disasters, emphasizing the need for a more secure and functional environment for police work.

The committee's discussions underscored the urgency of addressing the safety and operational needs of the Molokai Police Department. The proposed investment in the National Guard Armory renovation is seen as a crucial step toward enhancing community safety and ensuring that officers have the resources they need to serve effectively. The committee will continue to evaluate the funding requests as they move forward with the budget planning process.