The Maui County Council held a poignant meeting on May 2, 2025, to honor the legacy of Jonathan Starr, a dedicated civic leader who passed away recently. The council unanimously passed a resolution expressing condolences to Starr's family and recognizing his significant contributions to the community over a 30-year volunteer career.

Starr was deeply involved in various local organizations, including the Kaupau Community Association, where he played a pivotal role in transforming the former Kaupau School into a community resource center. His leadership extended to the Maui Planning Commission, where he contributed to the first Maui Island Plan, and he was a strong advocate for social services programs in East Maui.

Council members shared heartfelt memories of Starr, highlighting his enthusiasm for public service and his impact on the Democratic Party in Hawaii. His efforts were not only felt in local governance but also in community resilience initiatives, such as supporting emergency shelter programs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to honor Starr's memory through continued community engagement and support for the causes he championed. A memorial celebration is scheduled for May 17, 2025, in Woodstock, New York, where friends and family will gather to celebrate his life and legacy. The council's resolution will be sent to his wife, Helen Nielsen, and other family members, ensuring that his contributions to Maui County are remembered and appreciated.