Multiple agricultural stakeholders testified at the Upcountry residency meeting in favor of continued county support for the Maui County Farm Bureau, agricultural microgrants and a new floriculture commodity group.

Tara Nakahashi, co‑owner of Kahului Florist and president of the Maui Growers & Floriculture Collective (a commodity group formed under the Maui County Farm Bureau in February 2024), said the collective’s mission is to increase the marketability and local sourcing of Maui‑grown flowers. She told the committee the collective had requested $14,500 for FY2026 to support leadership, education and marketing to grow the local floral economy.

Nakahashi and other speakers described challenges: many florals are currently imported, local production has declined, and wedding and event demand frequently exceeds local supply. “Importation of florals and greens is an unavoidable aspect in the bridal culture industry here on Maui,” she said, arguing the collective would help reconnect florists and growers.

Farm Bureau members and commodity groups also testified about the value of county microgrants for small growers, livestock producers and other agriculture sectors. Jerry Ross, speaking for the coffee association and as a longtime grower, said microgrants had funded a nursery roof and other capital improvements at his operation. Ranch and livestock representatives asked the council to consider fencing assistance and other supports to protect crops and animals from invasive mammals.

There was a brief clarification on microgrant eligibility: testimony showed confusion in the audience about whether microgrants were for parcels “12 acres and less” or “12 acres and larger.” A representative clarified during questions that microgrants have historically targeted operations on 12 acres or less.

No funding decision was made at the meeting; speakers asked the committee to include support for commodity groups and microgrants when finalizing the county’s FY2026 budget.