Dear Council Members,
While I fully support Bill 105, I strongly oppose Councilmember Paltin's amendment.
The devastating wildfire destroyed almost everything I have been working hard for since I was 18 years old. I am hoping Lahaina will come back soon.
I went through a long process to obtain the permit and have been renting my house as a short-term rental since 2015. Besides paying my taxes, I respected my neighbors and provided jobs for residents in Lahaina.
This wildfire already puts a lot of stress on me to rebuild my life and support my daughter. I am working on a plan to rebuild my house and hope I can keep my short-term rental permit.
I urge you to consider the significant negative impact this amendment would have on the rebuilding process.
Sincerely,
Ly Nguyen
1327 Keao St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Phone: 808-2831881
My name is Tina Kuulei Berg and I am in support of Bill 105
My grandparents were Antonio Dias and Lucy Napela Furtado. Grandma Lucy was born in Lahaina in 1881. My grandfather came to Maui from the Azores with his family when he was 3 years old. They married, worked hard, nurtured 6 children, and began our family’s legacy on Front Street, Lahaina.
I spent most summer’s in Lahaina with my parents, sister, and cousins. We swam at Black Rock before any hotels were built, ate at Morikawa’s after going to church at Waiola with grandma, getting pickled mango at the stand on Front Street, and swimming at grandma’s at 339 Front
Street.
Front Street Lahaina is our family and Lahaina needs it back to help the community with jobs, business opportunities for those who want it, and get Lahaina back to what it was.
Aloha Chair Kama, Council Members, and Members of the Planning Department,
My name is Lori Fisher and I lived for many years on Front Street (recently relocated to Ka’anapali). Lahaina is important to me for so many reasons. I recently wrote a “Letter to Lahaina” that was published by Civil Beat – perhaps this explains best the importance and impact and emotional value that the TOWN of Lahaina brought to so many like myself who lived there:
Dear Lahaina,
Sometimes we don't appreciate things until they are gone, but I appreciated you every day we lived there. For over 30 years we knew what a special place Lahaina was - and still is in my heart. Stopping by the coffee shop after a walk, the cacophony of birds in the Banyan at dusk, hanging out with a favorite shopkeeper in the afternoons, the tinkle of metal on metal as the sailboats in the harbor rocked in the wind, the surf school paddling out each morning, the smell of sugar cone waffles from the corner store, music (and sometimes hula too) on the lawn each month, so many grindz to choose from for breakfast lunch pupus dinner, walking to the Post Office and to the bank and for groceries. Just walking the streets to see you, smell you, hear you…and bump into friends. And of course your glorious sunsets – from our lanai, from the breakwall, from Fleetwood’s, from the yacht club, from anywhere and everywhere on your streets. I can close my eyes and see you still, smell you still, hear you still. For those of us who lived and loved Lahaina you will never be gone. We grieve, we ache, we still find ourselves in disbelief – yet we honor you in our stories and tall tales and photos and memories. And we await the next chapter, for which we will have to dig deep for patience. But you are worth it. We were grateful all along, and are still. Mahalo Lahaina for all you were - and will be.
To help all of these daily facets of Lahaina life, especially the small businesses of Lahaina Towne, return and survive, I strongly support the Maui Planning Commission’s recommendation to extend the rebuilding time to five years, with the option for a two-year extension. This would give businesses a realistic timeframe to rebuild and restore Front Street in a way that maintains its integrity and history. We can honor both the cultural importance of Lahaina such as Moku’ula and the fire memorial, as well as the economic vitality of the commercial and retail businesses that employ so many residents and brought joy to so many of us, every single day. We need both in our future. Please help the business district come back.
Mahalo for your consideration and for supporting our community in this time of need.
Respectfully, Lori Fisher
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Kelly Kulia Furtado. I am the great granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this. My ohana strongly supports Bill 105 and we hope that you will too.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Kelly Kulia Furtado
Dear Chair and Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to Councilmember Paltin's amendment to Bill 105. While I fully support the overall intent of Bill 105, this amendment poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of many Maui residents, including myself.
On August 8, 2023, the devastating wildfire destroyed our family business on Front Street and our home. We have been relying on our savings and have applied for an SBA loan to rebuild our house. The short-term rental permit we obtained five years ago is crucial to our ability to rebuild our family's future.
As a Maui resident for over two decades, I have always respected my neighbors and strived to be a responsible member of the community. Our short-term rental has provided jobs for my neighbors in areas such as cleaning, gardening, handyman services, and AC maintenance.
The passage of Councilmember Paltin's amendment would be a devastating blow to our family and many others who are still recovering from the wildfires. It would essentially double the challenges we face in rebuilding our lives and livelihoods.
I urge you to consider the significant negative impact this amendment would have on Maui residents. Please allow us to rebuild our homes and resume our short-term rental permits so that we can contribute to the recovery of our community.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Hue Ha
Owner of 211 Panaewa Place, Lahaina, HI 96761
Email: hahuemaui@gmail.com
Phone: 808-4198443
Aloha Chair Kama and Council Members,
While I fully support Bill 105, I strongly oppose Councilmember Paltin's amendment.
On August 8, 2023, the devastating wildfire destroyed my retail business on Front Street, my primary house, and my rental house. I had planned to retire by the end of the year, but now my entire life has been devastated.
I have been renting my house as a short-term rental since obtaining a permit in 2016. I have always paid my taxes, respected my neighbors, and provided jobs for residents in Lahaina.
The passage of Councilmember Paltin's amendment would be a devastating blow to me as a Maui resident of over two decades. It would essentially double the challenges I face in rebuilding my life.
I urge you to consider the significant negative impact this amendment would have on my family and Maui residents.
Sincerely,
Van Doan
330 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Email: lahainagreenvilla@gmail.com
Phone: 808-3593225
I am a descendent of the Miyaki and Kondo families on Front Street. Our family has owned 764 Front Street for over 70 years. I grew up on Front street while my Grandmother Kikuno Miyaki ran Miyaki Store.
We support Bill 105...we want to restore what we lost in the tragic fire.
My name is Tambara Garrick, and I am a resident of Maui concerned about the future of
Front Street, a place that has played a pivotal role in contributing to not just our economy on
Maui but throughout the entire state. I want to commend the administration and the planning
department for introducing Bill 105, and I also thank Councilmember Kama for scheduling this
bill for review. Your efforts are crucial for our community’s recovery.
Front Street has long been a heartbeat of Lahaina—a place where history, culture, and
commerce come together. It’s a place where families, visitors, and local businesses thrive
together. I worked on Front Street for the past 12 years. After the devastating events, it's imperative that we rebuild, not just to restore the
businesses, but to restore our sense of community. UHERO just published a study that shows
30% of fire-impacted households have incomes below the poverty line. With numerous
businesses lost in the fire, so were the jobs and income of hundreds of our friends and
community members. I support bill 105 because this allows our community to move forward and
towards a better future.
Thank you for listening to the needs of your community and for working toward a solution that
will benefit us all.
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee, My name is Kent Untermann and we lost our building at 736 Front Street, Tabora Gallery, CocoNene and Lahaina Loft and we are in support of bill 105. This is reaching crisis status for the West Maui Jobs outlook.
As quick background my wife Lori and I were one of three original 2019 SBA Hall of Fame inductees for “surviving” 38 years of small business in Hawaii. We lost a $10m building at 736 Front Street and three businesses that paid local employees $110,000 per month in salaries on two islands. Two stores in our one building provided over $60,000 of monthly wages for Maui employees and over $50,000 per month in income to local artists.
While this has been devastating and like the previous 38 years we will survive. Our concern is for the less experienced business owners and small land owners who are not able to survive if this lasts longer than a couple of years. We urgently need to support our local small business community members.
From my long experience Front Street singularly represents more economic vitality to the “small guy” than any other mile or less of property anywhere in Hawaii. There are so few small landowners and small business people able to make the kind of money that Front Street generated and how much of that economic vitality stayed in our islands.
Please don’t confuse Front Street with the other “over tourism” areas that did not generate so much “economic vitality into the fabric of West Maui”.
The art gallery businesses alone generated over $50M of sales all going mostly to local artists, gallery owners and sales people. With 80% of Maui GDP being tourism and Front Street singularly driving more “dollar for dollar good” for local people.
Yes, Front Street was a tourist Mecca and it did so much good for the people living in Lahaina economically. There was no single tenant or landowner like the large hotels and shopping centers, prevalent everywhere else.
>>> Do it for the little guy and please support bill 105.
Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it. Now please act on it and make it happen.
Thanks,
Lori and Kent Untermann
CocoNene, Tabora Gallery, Pictures Plus and the Kishi Building
Kent Untermann
Art Source Inc.
808-368-6186
Kent@Picturesplus.co
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Donna Gedge, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Donna Gedge
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Maile Williams, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Maile Williams
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Alika Williams, I am a great grandchild of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Alika Williams
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Mahealani Riley, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Mahealani Riley
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Kaione Crabb, I am the great granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Kaione Crabb
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Zachary Payne, I am a fouth Lahaina generation. My great grandparents are Antonio Dias Furtado (from Azores, Portugal) and Lucy Napela Kaukau (from Lahaina).
Lahaina is where I have a strong bond to where my grandmother (Gertrude Furtado Berger) was born and where I grew up to visit and learn about the historic community of Lahaina. Therefore, I am in support of bill 105!
Our Front Street property (aka Goo Lip property) is very important to me and our family as it provided many of jobs for the community and allowed for small businesses to flourish. Front Street has long been the heartbeat of Lahaina's economy, and without it, the financial health of our community continues to deteriorate.
This bill moves us closer to reopening our businesses, restoring the tourist economy, and getting Lahaina back on its feet. It also allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
Mahalo for your time and hearing my testimony. I strongly support bill 105 and encourage all of you to consider supporting as well.
Zachary Payne
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Kammy Furtado, I am the great granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Kammy Furtado
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Lindsey Berg am a fouth Lahaina generation. My great grandparents are Antonio Dias Furtado (from Azores, Portugal) and Lucy Napela Kaukau (from Lahaina).
Lahaina is where I have a strong bond to where my grandmother (Gertrude Furtado Berger) was born and where I grew up to visit and learn about the historic community of Lahaina. Therefore, I am in support of bill 105!
Our Front Street property (aka Goo Lip property) is very important to me and our family as it provided many of jobs for the community and allowed for small businesses to flourish. Front Street has long been the heartbeat of Lahaina's economy, and without it, the financial health of our community continues to deteriorate.
This bill moves us closer to reopening our businesses, restoring the tourist economy, and getting Lahaina back on its feet. It also allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
Mahalo for your time and hearing my testimony. I strongly support bill 105 and encourage all of you to consider supporting as well.
Lindsey Berg
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Stephanie Marrack, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Marrack
Housing Land Use Committee,
Aloha Chair and Members of the Maui County Council,
My name is Kekoa Beaupre am a fouth Lahaina generation. My great grandparents are Antonio Dias Furtado (from Azores, Portugal) and Lucy Napela Kaukau (from Lahaina). Lahaina is where I have a strong bond to where my grandmother (Phoebe Furtado Gedge) was born and where I grew up to visit and learn about the historic community of Lahaina. Therefore, I am in support of bill 105!
Our Front Street property (aka Goo Lip property) is very important to me and our family as it provided many of jobs for the community and allowed for small businesses to flourish. Front Street has long been the heartbeat of Lahaina's economy, and without it, the financial health of our community continues to deteriorate.
This bill moves us closer to reopening our businesses, restoring the tourist economy, and getting Lahaina back on its feet. It also allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
Also, to minimize the financial impact of the County losing real property taxes and the State losing General Excise Tax the longer we prolong rebuilding, it is important we keep moving forward and restore the homes and businesses to stimulate the Lahaina economy again!
Mahalo for your time and hearing my testimony. I strongly support bill 105 and encourage all of you to consider supporting as well.
Kekoa Beaupre
I oppose Councilmember Paltin's amendment but support Bill 105. The bill aims to expedite the rebuilding process for may families and this should be done as quickly and efficiently as possible. I lost everything in the fire ... my home, its contents, and my vacation rental business, which was established in 2013. We were the third family to receive a permit in Lahaina, were professionally managed and never once received a complaint. The economic impact study on STRs should be completed before making any decisions to further restrict STR operations. Families and businesses already affected by the wildfires rely on income from STRs. Preventing them from rebuilding or resuming their livelihoods will cause additional hardship. Lahaina is in terrible shape. People are leaving because they have no work and no homes. Also, as everyone knows, permitted STRs will bring much needed money to our state and county. Shutting down legal, permitted STRs is certainly not a solution to resolve this problem. Sincerely, Carol Carolan
Dear Council Members,
While I fully support Bill 105, I strongly oppose Councilmember Paltin's amendment.
The devastating wildfire destroyed almost everything I have been working hard for since I was 18 years old. I am hoping Lahaina will come back soon.
I went through a long process to obtain the permit and have been renting my house as a short-term rental since 2015. Besides paying my taxes, I respected my neighbors and provided jobs for residents in Lahaina.
This wildfire already puts a lot of stress on me to rebuild my life and support my daughter. I am working on a plan to rebuild my house and hope I can keep my short-term rental permit.
I urge you to consider the significant negative impact this amendment would have on the rebuilding process.
Sincerely,
Ly Nguyen
1327 Keao St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Phone: 808-2831881
Aloha Chairman Kama and committee members,
My name is Tina Kuulei Berg and I am in support of Bill 105
My grandparents were Antonio Dias and Lucy Napela Furtado. Grandma Lucy was born in Lahaina in 1881. My grandfather came to Maui from the Azores with his family when he was 3 years old. They married, worked hard, nurtured 6 children, and began our family’s legacy on Front Street, Lahaina.
I spent most summer’s in Lahaina with my parents, sister, and cousins. We swam at Black Rock before any hotels were built, ate at Morikawa’s after going to church at Waiola with grandma, getting pickled mango at the stand on Front Street, and swimming at grandma’s at 339 Front
Street.
Front Street Lahaina is our family and Lahaina needs it back to help the community with jobs, business opportunities for those who want it, and get Lahaina back to what it was.
Mahalo ,
Tina K Berg
Aloha Chair Kama, Council Members, and Members of the Planning Department,
My name is Lori Fisher and I lived for many years on Front Street (recently relocated to Ka’anapali). Lahaina is important to me for so many reasons. I recently wrote a “Letter to Lahaina” that was published by Civil Beat – perhaps this explains best the importance and impact and emotional value that the TOWN of Lahaina brought to so many like myself who lived there:
Dear Lahaina,
Sometimes we don't appreciate things until they are gone, but I appreciated you every day we lived there. For over 30 years we knew what a special place Lahaina was - and still is in my heart. Stopping by the coffee shop after a walk, the cacophony of birds in the Banyan at dusk, hanging out with a favorite shopkeeper in the afternoons, the tinkle of metal on metal as the sailboats in the harbor rocked in the wind, the surf school paddling out each morning, the smell of sugar cone waffles from the corner store, music (and sometimes hula too) on the lawn each month, so many grindz to choose from for breakfast lunch pupus dinner, walking to the Post Office and to the bank and for groceries. Just walking the streets to see you, smell you, hear you…and bump into friends. And of course your glorious sunsets – from our lanai, from the breakwall, from Fleetwood’s, from the yacht club, from anywhere and everywhere on your streets. I can close my eyes and see you still, smell you still, hear you still. For those of us who lived and loved Lahaina you will never be gone. We grieve, we ache, we still find ourselves in disbelief – yet we honor you in our stories and tall tales and photos and memories. And we await the next chapter, for which we will have to dig deep for patience. But you are worth it. We were grateful all along, and are still. Mahalo Lahaina for all you were - and will be.
To help all of these daily facets of Lahaina life, especially the small businesses of Lahaina Towne, return and survive, I strongly support the Maui Planning Commission’s recommendation to extend the rebuilding time to five years, with the option for a two-year extension. This would give businesses a realistic timeframe to rebuild and restore Front Street in a way that maintains its integrity and history. We can honor both the cultural importance of Lahaina such as Moku’ula and the fire memorial, as well as the economic vitality of the commercial and retail businesses that employ so many residents and brought joy to so many of us, every single day. We need both in our future. Please help the business district come back.
Mahalo for your consideration and for supporting our community in this time of need.
Respectfully, Lori Fisher
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Kelly Kulia Furtado. I am the great granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this. My ohana strongly supports Bill 105 and we hope that you will too.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Kelly Kulia Furtado
Dear Chair and Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to Councilmember Paltin's amendment to Bill 105. While I fully support the overall intent of Bill 105, this amendment poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of many Maui residents, including myself.
On August 8, 2023, the devastating wildfire destroyed our family business on Front Street and our home. We have been relying on our savings and have applied for an SBA loan to rebuild our house. The short-term rental permit we obtained five years ago is crucial to our ability to rebuild our family's future.
As a Maui resident for over two decades, I have always respected my neighbors and strived to be a responsible member of the community. Our short-term rental has provided jobs for my neighbors in areas such as cleaning, gardening, handyman services, and AC maintenance.
The passage of Councilmember Paltin's amendment would be a devastating blow to our family and many others who are still recovering from the wildfires. It would essentially double the challenges we face in rebuilding our lives and livelihoods.
I urge you to consider the significant negative impact this amendment would have on Maui residents. Please allow us to rebuild our homes and resume our short-term rental permits so that we can contribute to the recovery of our community.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Hue Ha
Owner of 211 Panaewa Place, Lahaina, HI 96761
Email: hahuemaui@gmail.com
Phone: 808-4198443
Aloha Chair Kama and Council Members,
While I fully support Bill 105, I strongly oppose Councilmember Paltin's amendment.
On August 8, 2023, the devastating wildfire destroyed my retail business on Front Street, my primary house, and my rental house. I had planned to retire by the end of the year, but now my entire life has been devastated.
I have been renting my house as a short-term rental since obtaining a permit in 2016. I have always paid my taxes, respected my neighbors, and provided jobs for residents in Lahaina.
The passage of Councilmember Paltin's amendment would be a devastating blow to me as a Maui resident of over two decades. It would essentially double the challenges I face in rebuilding my life.
I urge you to consider the significant negative impact this amendment would have on my family and Maui residents.
Sincerely,
Van Doan
330 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Email: lahainagreenvilla@gmail.com
Phone: 808-3593225
Aloha Chair Kama and Council Members,
I am a descendent of the Miyaki and Kondo families on Front Street. Our family has owned 764 Front Street for over 70 years. I grew up on Front street while my Grandmother Kikuno Miyaki ran Miyaki Store.
We support Bill 105...we want to restore what we lost in the tragic fire.
Maui No Kai Oi!
Jay Miyaki
764 Front Street
Aloha Chair Kama, and Council Members,
My name is Tambara Garrick, and I am a resident of Maui concerned about the future of
Front Street, a place that has played a pivotal role in contributing to not just our economy on
Maui but throughout the entire state. I want to commend the administration and the planning
department for introducing Bill 105, and I also thank Councilmember Kama for scheduling this
bill for review. Your efforts are crucial for our community’s recovery.
Front Street has long been a heartbeat of Lahaina—a place where history, culture, and
commerce come together. It’s a place where families, visitors, and local businesses thrive
together. I worked on Front Street for the past 12 years. After the devastating events, it's imperative that we rebuild, not just to restore the
businesses, but to restore our sense of community. UHERO just published a study that shows
30% of fire-impacted households have incomes below the poverty line. With numerous
businesses lost in the fire, so were the jobs and income of hundreds of our friends and
community members. I support bill 105 because this allows our community to move forward and
towards a better future.
Thank you for listening to the needs of your community and for working toward a solution that
will benefit us all.
Sincerely,
Tambara Garrick
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee, My name is Kent Untermann and we lost our building at 736 Front Street, Tabora Gallery, CocoNene and Lahaina Loft and we are in support of bill 105. This is reaching crisis status for the West Maui Jobs outlook.
As quick background my wife Lori and I were one of three original 2019 SBA Hall of Fame inductees for “surviving” 38 years of small business in Hawaii. We lost a $10m building at 736 Front Street and three businesses that paid local employees $110,000 per month in salaries on two islands. Two stores in our one building provided over $60,000 of monthly wages for Maui employees and over $50,000 per month in income to local artists.
While this has been devastating and like the previous 38 years we will survive. Our concern is for the less experienced business owners and small land owners who are not able to survive if this lasts longer than a couple of years. We urgently need to support our local small business community members.
From my long experience Front Street singularly represents more economic vitality to the “small guy” than any other mile or less of property anywhere in Hawaii. There are so few small landowners and small business people able to make the kind of money that Front Street generated and how much of that economic vitality stayed in our islands.
Please don’t confuse Front Street with the other “over tourism” areas that did not generate so much “economic vitality into the fabric of West Maui”.
The art gallery businesses alone generated over $50M of sales all going mostly to local artists, gallery owners and sales people. With 80% of Maui GDP being tourism and Front Street singularly driving more “dollar for dollar good” for local people.
Yes, Front Street was a tourist Mecca and it did so much good for the people living in Lahaina economically. There was no single tenant or landowner like the large hotels and shopping centers, prevalent everywhere else.
>>> Do it for the little guy and please support bill 105.
Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it. Now please act on it and make it happen.
Thanks,
Lori and Kent Untermann
CocoNene, Tabora Gallery, Pictures Plus and the Kishi Building
Kent Untermann
Art Source Inc.
808-368-6186
Kent@Picturesplus.co
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Donna Gedge, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Donna Gedge
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Maile Williams, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Maile Williams
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Alika Williams, I am a great grandchild of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Alika Williams
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Mahealani Riley, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Mahealani Riley
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Kaione Crabb, I am the great granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Kaione Crabb
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Zachary Payne, I am a fouth Lahaina generation. My great grandparents are Antonio Dias Furtado (from Azores, Portugal) and Lucy Napela Kaukau (from Lahaina).
Lahaina is where I have a strong bond to where my grandmother (Gertrude Furtado Berger) was born and where I grew up to visit and learn about the historic community of Lahaina. Therefore, I am in support of bill 105!
Our Front Street property (aka Goo Lip property) is very important to me and our family as it provided many of jobs for the community and allowed for small businesses to flourish. Front Street has long been the heartbeat of Lahaina's economy, and without it, the financial health of our community continues to deteriorate.
This bill moves us closer to reopening our businesses, restoring the tourist economy, and getting Lahaina back on its feet. It also allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
Mahalo for your time and hearing my testimony. I strongly support bill 105 and encourage all of you to consider supporting as well.
Zachary Payne
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Kammy Furtado, I am the great granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. As a Kanaka Maoli family, we understand the history of this community and deeply respect the land and sea. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Kammy Furtado
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Lindsey Berg am a fouth Lahaina generation. My great grandparents are Antonio Dias Furtado (from Azores, Portugal) and Lucy Napela Kaukau (from Lahaina).
Lahaina is where I have a strong bond to where my grandmother (Gertrude Furtado Berger) was born and where I grew up to visit and learn about the historic community of Lahaina. Therefore, I am in support of bill 105!
Our Front Street property (aka Goo Lip property) is very important to me and our family as it provided many of jobs for the community and allowed for small businesses to flourish. Front Street has long been the heartbeat of Lahaina's economy, and without it, the financial health of our community continues to deteriorate.
This bill moves us closer to reopening our businesses, restoring the tourist economy, and getting Lahaina back on its feet. It also allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
Mahalo for your time and hearing my testimony. I strongly support bill 105 and encourage all of you to consider supporting as well.
Lindsey Berg
Aloha Chair Kama and members of the committee,
Mahalo for hearing my testimony.
My name is Stephanie Marrack, I am the granddaughter of Lucy Napela Kaukau Furtado and Antonio Dias Furtado. Grandma Lucy was a teacher for years at Kamehameha III Elementary. Vuvu (my great grandfather) was a butcher and then became the Lahaina Postmaster. Over 100 years ago, they bought buildings at 693-711 Front Street and 754 Front Street. These buildings were tragically destroyed in the Lahaina fires of August 2023.
I am writing today in support of Bill 105. Thank you to the administration and planning department for introducing an essential bill and to Chair Kama for hearing it.
Our family has so many cherished memories of Lahaina, and we treasure these properties. They not only provide critical financial income for our kupuna, but they have kept our ohana close as we have worked together over the years to maintain them. We strongly believe we can rebuild in a way that honors our culture while being economically responsible. This bill allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
We are simply trying to rebuild what we lost in the devastating Lahaina fires. Bill 105 would be a huge help in doing this.
Mahalo nui for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Marrack
Housing Land Use Committee,
Aloha Chair and Members of the Maui County Council,
My name is Kekoa Beaupre am a fouth Lahaina generation. My great grandparents are Antonio Dias Furtado (from Azores, Portugal) and Lucy Napela Kaukau (from Lahaina). Lahaina is where I have a strong bond to where my grandmother (Phoebe Furtado Gedge) was born and where I grew up to visit and learn about the historic community of Lahaina. Therefore, I am in support of bill 105!
Our Front Street property (aka Goo Lip property) is very important to me and our family as it provided many of jobs for the community and allowed for small businesses to flourish. Front Street has long been the heartbeat of Lahaina's economy, and without it, the financial health of our community continues to deteriorate.
This bill moves us closer to reopening our businesses, restoring the tourist economy, and getting Lahaina back on its feet. It also allows us to rebuild Front Street with sensitivity to the cultural and historical significance of the area. It provides the opportunity to restore the character of Lahaina in a way that respects its heritage while also supporting economic growth. This balance is key to a sustainable future for our community.
Also, to minimize the financial impact of the County losing real property taxes and the State losing General Excise Tax the longer we prolong rebuilding, it is important we keep moving forward and restore the homes and businesses to stimulate the Lahaina economy again!
Mahalo for your time and hearing my testimony. I strongly support bill 105 and encourage all of you to consider supporting as well.
Kekoa Beaupre
I oppose Councilmember Paltin's amendment but support Bill 105. The bill aims to expedite the rebuilding process for may families and this should be done as quickly and efficiently as possible. I lost everything in the fire ... my home, its contents, and my vacation rental business, which was established in 2013. We were the third family to receive a permit in Lahaina, were professionally managed and never once received a complaint. The economic impact study on STRs should be completed before making any decisions to further restrict STR operations. Families and businesses already affected by the wildfires rely on income from STRs. Preventing them from rebuilding or resuming their livelihoods will cause additional hardship. Lahaina is in terrible shape. People are leaving because they have no work and no homes. Also, as everyone knows, permitted STRs will bring much needed money to our state and county. Shutting down legal, permitted STRs is certainly not a solution to resolve this problem. Sincerely, Carol Carolan