A strong push for financial literacy took center stage during the Maui County Government Relations, Ethics, and Transparency Committee meeting on July 1, 2025. Community members emphasized the urgent need for educational programs to help residents manage their finances effectively.

One speaker highlighted their journey from various business ventures, including agriculture and retail, to establishing a financial services company focused on life insurance, trusts, and retirement planning. "Everybody's got money problems," they stated, underscoring the widespread need for financial guidance. The speaker shared their commitment to community service, noting that they have transitioned to focus solely on financial education, offering free classes across the islands.

A recent event in Hana exemplified this commitment, where three agents taught around 90 kupunas (elders) about setting up trusts and financial planning. The success of this initiative showcased the potential impact of financial literacy programs in the community.

The discussion also linked these efforts to Bill 9, which aims to enhance financial training and budgeting skills among residents. The committee recognized that such initiatives are crucial for empowering individuals and fostering economic stability in Maui County.

As the meeting concluded, the call for increased financial education resonated strongly, with participants eager to see more programs that address the pressing financial challenges faced by many in the community.