Maui County officials are taking significant steps to enhance cultural preservation and collaboration through the establishment of the new Department of OEV Resources. During a recent government meeting, council members discussed the integration of cultural aspects into various county departments, highlighting the importance of protecting sensitive sites and honoring the community's heritage.

Council member San Nensi emphasized the excitement surrounding this initiative, noting that it allows for greater collaboration not only within county departments but also with state partners. The department aims to work closely with the state’s burial council and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to ensure the respectful care of culturally significant sites and the remains of ancestors, referred to as EV Kupuna.

The meeting revealed that Maui's approach is being recognized as a model for other counties in Hawaii. Officials from Hawaii County and Kauai County have already expressed interest in learning from Maui's innovative strategies for cultural resource management. This trend-setting initiative is seen as a way to foster better practices across the state.

Additionally, the strategic plan developed by the department incorporates feedback from the community and aims to ensure that cultural perspectives are integrated into all county functions. This formal acknowledgment of cultural resources is viewed as a crucial step in enhancing the county's commitment to its heritage.

As the department moves forward, officials are optimistic about the potential for collaborative training programs and exchanges with other regions, further strengthening Maui's cultural preservation efforts. The meeting underscored the importance of balancing ambitious goals with the capacity to effectively implement them, ensuring that the community's needs and values remain at the forefront of county initiatives.