The Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting the community, including education, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability. The meeting featured multiple testifiers who presented their concerns and recommendations regarding the county's budget and future projects.

The session began with a testimony from Shay Chan Hodges, who highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated building for Punaalayo School, which has been temporarily housed in Christ the King for years. Hodges urged the council to support and increase funding for the school, emphasizing the importance of its cultural and linguistic foundation for the community. She also raised concerns about the potential economic downturn due to federal cuts and the impact on tourism, suggesting that the county consider taxing high-value properties owned by non-residents to mitigate budget shortfalls.

Following Hodges, Nicola Nanda presented a comprehensive list of proposals, advocating for the remodeling of the Maui County Council Chambers for better community engagement, expanding the tiered property tax system to benefit residents, and establishing material reclamation facilities to reduce landfill waste. Nanda also called for improvements to public transportation and social services, as well as increased funding for affordable housing initiatives.

Jerry Isdell, a retired engineer, echoed concerns about the county's reliance on federal funding, urging the council to assess the potential impacts of funding cuts on essential services. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to address budget sensitivities.

Lucy Andine, president of the Haiku Community Association, expressed gratitude for the support received for local projects, including funding for the Haiku Fire Station and community cleanup initiatives. She advocated for continued funding for essential county services and highlighted the importance of maintaining public lands.

The meeting concluded with additional testimonies, including one from Nicole Hokowana, who thanked the council for their engagement with the community. The discussions underscored the community's desire for increased support and proactive measures to address economic and environmental challenges facing Maui County.

Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment from community members to advocate for their needs and ensure that the county's budget aligns with the priorities of its residents. The council is expected to consider these testimonies as they finalize the budget for the upcoming fiscal years.