Maui County's Water and Infrastructure Committee convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding environmental oversight and community concerns related to the Central Maui Landfill. The meeting featured representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Health, who provided insights into ongoing regulatory support and community health issues.
During the session, the committee acknowledged the absence of FEMA but welcomed Sarah from the EPA, who emphasized her agency's facilitative role in addressing local environmental concerns. She, along with Paul Rush, a landfill subject matter expert, offered their expertise to answer any regulatory questions from the committee members.
Vice Chair Yukili Sugimura raised concerns from the community regarding air quality and dust around the Central Maui Landfill. She sought clarification on whether these issues stemmed from increased landfill activity or other sources. The presence of the EPA was noted as crucial for ensuring proper oversight and addressing these community health concerns.
The committee also included additional resource personnel from the Department of Health, enhancing the meeting's capacity to address public health issues related to solid waste management and air quality.
As the meeting concluded, the committee reinforced its commitment to ongoing dialogue with community members, ensuring that written testimony would continue to be accepted. This approach highlights the committee's dedication to transparency and responsiveness to public concerns, paving the way for future discussions on environmental health and infrastructure in Maui County.