The Maui County Water and Infrastructure Committee convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss critical aspects of the ongoing recovery efforts in Lahaina following recent disasters. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration among various agencies and the community as they navigate the complexities of recovery.
During the session, committee members were reassured by Mahina, a representative from the administration, about the commitment to monitor recovery efforts closely. She emphasized the need to address community concerns and acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, "This is a very significant endeavor and a critical step in the complexity of the Lahaina recovery." Mahina confirmed that the team would be proactive in providing updates and addressing issues as they arise.
Director Angala echoed these sentiments, noting the untested nature of the recovery process and the importance of public input. He mentioned that the team meets regularly to coordinate efforts and communicate effectively about the recovery status. "We just don't know the answers... until we start getting into it," he said, highlighting the learning curve involved in the recovery process.
Sarah, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) representative, also contributed to the discussion, sharing her personal connection to the area and her commitment to long-term recovery efforts. She reassured attendees that the EPA would remain a dedicated partner throughout the recovery phases.
The meeting concluded with a call for deferral of the discussed item, and the chair expressed gratitude to all participants, including county, state, and federal agencies, for their collaboration. The committee's ongoing efforts reflect a unified approach to addressing the challenges faced by the Lahaina community as they work towards recovery.