The Maui County Council unanimously amended a prior grant resolution Jan. 17 to include a small adjacent county parcel in the deed to the Lahaina Community Land Trust, enabling the trust to develop a duplex intended to serve two local families in Lahaina.

Why it matters: The amendment adds a contiguous 1,500-square-foot parcel to a December 2024 deed and clarifies an easement so the county can retain utility access. Supporters say community land trusts keep homes affordable for generations by holding land in trust and separating land ownership from housing ownership.

Council action: After discussion the council approved the amendment on a recorded voice vote; the clerk noted the final tally as 8 ayes and 0 nos, with one member excused. The amendment amends Resolution 24-77 CD1 and transfers the additional parcel (tax map key as described in the resolution) to Lahaina Community Land Trust under deed restrictions tied to prior Affordable Housing Fund purchases.

Testimony and context: Autumn Ness, executive director of the Lahaina Community Land Trust, told the council the trust has secured two parcels and is under contract for two more, and that Dickinson Street (266 Dickinson) would be No. 5 in the trust’s portfolio. The trust said it has access to housing funds in this year’s budget and an internal construction fund that could allow it to proceed with building without outside financing.

Opposition and process questions: Edward Cordelia testified in opposition to the broader approach in earlier written testimony, arguing the council should not waive competitive public-auction or appraisal safeguards when disposing of county property. During council Q&A, members noted the parcel was purchased with Affordable Housing Fund dollars and is subject to deed restrictions that limit outright auctioning. Council members said the trust-based transfer is consistent with prior council action and state and county code governing disposition of county properties for public purposes.

What the council did: Councilmembers praised the trust’s work and approved the amending resolution so the trust can include the contiguous parcel in its deed. Council members said they expect the trust to move quickly toward construction and that the county will continue to pursue additional supports for Lahaina families.

Sources: Public testimony and council action during the Jan. 17 meeting; resolution materials transmitted to the council.