During a recent meeting of the Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee, community member Poppy Hudson voiced strong support for Bill 9, emphasizing its potential role in addressing the ongoing housing crisis. Hudson acknowledged that while the bill alone will not solve the issue, it represents a crucial part of a larger solution.

Hudson urged council members to consider passing Bill 9 despite any imperfections or challenges it may present. She suggested that after its approval, the council could explore additional measures to tackle any obstacles that arise. One specific example she provided was the possibility of lowering homeowners association (HOA) fees, which have significantly increased at her residence, Napili Villas, following a recent fire.

Having lived in Napili Villas for 23 years, Hudson highlighted that her HOA fees have doubled due to rising insurance costs, despite the absence of amenities like short-term rentals or luxury features such as swimming pools and Jacuzzis. She pointed out that similar units in areas like Hana and Kauai have even higher fees, raising questions about the necessity of certain amenities and their impact on housing affordability.

This discussion reflects the broader concerns of Maui residents regarding housing costs and the need for innovative solutions to improve affordability in the community. As the committee continues to deliberate on housing policies, the insights shared by Hudson and others will play a vital role in shaping future decisions that directly affect local families and individuals.