Maui County is gearing up for a significant shift in public meeting accessibility, as all official agendas will soon be required to be published in both English and Olelo Hawaii. This change, mandated by Bill 127, takes effect in September 2025, but preparations are already underway.

During a recent government meeting, officials outlined their proactive approach to ensure a smooth transition. They are collaborating with nearly 40 boards and commissions to establish best practices for agenda translation. The Department of OEV Resources is leading the charge, working closely with secretaries to address questions and streamline the process.

A crucial aspect of this initiative is the timeline for posting agendas, which must adhere to the Sunshine Law requiring publication at least six days before meetings. Officials emphasized the importance of adequate time for translation, noting that the length and complexity of agendas will influence this timeline. They are currently developing templates to expedite the translation process, allowing for quicker turnaround on routine agenda items.

The integration of Olelo Hawaii into meeting agendas is not just a logistical change; it reflects a commitment to cultural respect and inclusivity. Officials expressed a desire for the Hawaiian language to hold equal prominence alongside English in official documents, moving away from a subtext approach to a more balanced presentation.

As the county prepares for this bilingual mandate, the focus remains on collaboration and effective communication among all parties involved. The transition period from July to September will serve as a testing phase to refine workflows and ensure that the new requirements are met without disruption. The successful implementation of this initiative is expected to enhance community engagement and accessibility in Maui County's governance.