Maui County officials are urged to prioritize a detailed infrastructure assessment for a proposed housing plan that could see over 8,000 new units in South Maui. During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised about the inconsistency between resource papers and the actual needs for housing, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive budget to support the ambitious proposal.

The discussion highlighted that without a thorough analysis of infrastructure costs—including highways, water treatment, and waste management—the plan may become unfeasible. A request from the Community Planning Advisory Committee (CPAC) for a detailed infrastructure assessment has not yet been fulfilled, raising alarms about the potential for a plan that lacks a logical financial framework.

Officials were reminded that understanding who will bear the costs—whether developers, the county, or state and federal governments—is crucial for the plan's success. The mayor stressed the need for actionable steps to avoid future complications for council members and planning commissioners tasked with implementing the proposal.

As the planning process moves forward, the call for a detailed budget and infrastructure study remains a critical focus, ensuring that Maui County can responsibly manage its growth while meeting the housing needs of its residents.