The Maui County Council convened on September 8, 2025, to discuss and adopt Resolution 25-172, which supports a similar resolution from the Hawaii County Council urging the state to halt military bombing activities at the Pohakuloa Training Area. The resolution calls for the rejection of new land agreements until all legal and environmental reviews are completed, as well as a comprehensive analysis of the area to protect native Hawaiian cultural practices and resources.
Council Member Rollins Fernandez introduced the resolution, emphasizing the need for solidarity with Hawaii County and the importance of preserving the health and safety of local residents. The resolution highlights concerns over environmental contamination and cultural impacts stemming from military activities at the training site. It also references a recent decision by the State Board of Land and Natural Resources, which rejected the U.S. Army's final environmental impact statement due to inadequate assessments of biological and archaeological resources.
During the meeting, members expressed their commitment to protecting the land and cultural heritage of Hawaii. They voiced concerns about the military's use of potentially harmful materials, such as depleted uranium, and the historical neglect of cleanup efforts on sites like Kahoolawe. The council members reiterated their stance against military practices that threaten the environment and public health, advocating for a shift towards peace and stewardship of the land.
The resolution passed unanimously, with members urging the state to coordinate with local communities and prioritize cultural preservation and environmental stewardship in future military activities. The council plans to send certified copies of the resolution to key state and federal officials, reinforcing their commitment to addressing these critical issues.