The Maui County Housing and Land Use Committee convened on July 23, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding housing and community development. The meeting, which was a continuation from previous sessions, focused on the challenges of maintaining aging properties and the financial implications for local residents.

A key point of discussion was the condition of older condominium buildings, many of which are located near the ocean and require significant repairs. Committee members expressed concern about the burden placed on local communities to invest in these properties, particularly when many residents are already struggling with high housing costs. One member highlighted the difficulty of obtaining permits for necessary repairs, suggesting that this could hinder efforts to improve living conditions.

The conversation also touched on the financial landscape for potential homeowners in Maui. Real estate expert Donna Ting reported that there are currently 173 units available in the $400,000 to $600,000 range, with an average selling price of around $477,000. However, the high cost of mortgages, averaging $4,300 per month, poses a significant barrier for many residents. It was noted that prospective buyers often find it challenging to transition from renting to owning due to the steep mortgage payments compared to rental costs.

The committee explored potential solutions to ease the housing crisis, including the possibility of deferring homeowners association (HOA) dues to make housing more affordable. However, experts indicated that such measures may not be feasible under current lending guidelines, which require all costs to be considered in mortgage qualifications.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for innovative strategies to address the housing challenges facing Maui County, particularly as many residents grapple with the dual pressures of aging infrastructure and rising living costs. The committee plans to continue its discussions and seek actionable solutions in future sessions.