My name is Brandi Corpuz and I live, work and play in Kula Kai. I am a community advocate for our wetlands and natural resources, affordable housing/ homeless solutions and Executive Director of Rooted Kekahi Me Ka Aina. My priorities for South Maui have not changed and I'm sure I have spoken to many of you about these very important issues before.
Infrastructure issues are number one on my list but do include many different aspects of infrastructure. These infrastructure priorities include more funding for Natural and wetland restoration projects for our local non-profits and environmental experts/advocates to create greenways, flood mitigation, native habitats, and open space infrastructure. The completed purchase and restoration of our Waipuilani and Kulanihakoi wetlands and the completion of the north south collector road that will go through these wetlands are all very important. We need wetland infrastructure to restore and protect our beaches, reefs, and endemic/endangered marine life, birds and plants and funding for the infrastructure of County owned land in Kula Kai to build truly affordable housing for our local people.
The county of Maui needs help to stop the extensive flooding that happens yearly or more in south Kihei by providing funding to hire local environmental experts, consultants and our local nonprofits to restore our wetlands of Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani. These are privately owned extremely valuable natural resources that are being destroyed by private owners' lack of care concerning what their actions or inactions cause to our ecosystem. This lack of care is seen in clear cutting trees, diverting water and building houses where the wetlands should be allowed to flow.
Money should be put into greenways in the areas that our community wanted to protect in our South Maui community plan. We should plant native trees and vegetation that not only provides protections and habitat for our endangered species but also provides open spaces for our community to use and allows our ecosystem to thrive.
Upgrades and improvements to our Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani bridge and culvert should be priority before any more developments are allowed to happen anywhere in South Maui. Recent damages to them both should prove that this is a priority for funding.
Additional money should be put into the open space fund for the purchase of Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani Gulches so that these precious resources can be restored and once again be a benefit to our ecosystem rather than a detriment. Technically they should be taken as an imminent domain all the way up to Kula so that owners aren't allowed to do whatever they want to our precious water resources. Private Landowners should not be allowed to name their own price when it comes to these resources that affect us all. The county should own all of our water resources.
The North South Collector road needs to be completed and this also has to do with infrastructure and our wetlands/natural resources as the road will go through both the Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani Gulches. Swalls and water basins should be made in the uplands of these gulches to slow the water during heavy rain and some type of overpass needs to be constructed as well. My community has only one way in and out of our road that connects to South Kihei Road only. This is a detriment to everyone who lives in my community and all of my neighboring communities from Waipuilani street all the way to Mokulele and North Kihei highway. Our flooding events prevent thousands of people from getting to safety due to no other alternative routes to flee from. A recent fire also caused panic with some of our community members as traffic was backed up to our street where the fire raged in 3 different areas, with nowhere else to go.
Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani wetlands, the beach reserve that surrounds them and the ocean and reef that are affected by them need protection and restoration. This also involves infrastructure but green infrastructure that benefits our ecosystem more than any other types of infrastructure. Funding these community assets and the organizations who have been working on them should be a priority. Ahupuaa restoration is needed on both of these wetland resources to protect our homes, roads, community members and endemic and endangered species that depend on these wetlands to survive. Our oceans, marine life, beaches, and endangered wildlife will become extinct in our lifetime if we don't protect these last remaining wetland resources now.
The flooding events and potential fire hazards that are caused due to lack of care by land owners just cost us $5.9 million dollars of our tax payers money. That does not include the recent clean up efforts or the damages to our roads, homes and bridges from January's massive flooding. As the Executive Director of Rooted Kekahi Me Ka Aina working in these 2 gulches for the past 5 years, I know firsthand the challenges we face. We need more money to be put into the budget specifically for the community organizations, environmental experts and practitioners who have already been working in these ecologically valuable wetlands. If the county spent 5.9 million to completely destroy Kulanihakoi of all vegetation on private property, then at least that much should be designated for restoration and green infrastructure to be put into place in these and other ecologically important projects.
Affordable housing also deals with infrastructure. The 150 acres of land in Kula Kai owned by the County should be made into affordable housing now with funding priorities given to the infrastructures and subsidies to the residents instead of developers! Money should also be put into a community fund to subsidize actual affordable housing for our longtime residents who are struggling to pay rent or mortgage payments. All the credits that are given to developers should be stopped completely because that has been proven not to benefit those of our community who really need it most.
I noticed a few things that confused and disturbed me in the Department of Finances report that raises many questions that I hope you will clarify before you make your final decision on our budget. Open Space and Natural resource fund dropped from $12,611,014 to only $6,503,886. for 2026 and the Affordable housing fund has almost remained the same since 2023 at $32,519,431.00 yet the Fridge Benefits increased to $171,763,735.
The Open Space/Natural Resource fund, environmental grants and the Affordable housing funds should be increased as they are the most important priority in every local family's lives. Please put our people and aina above all else. Thank you for your time and consideration of my priorities for the County Budget.
I'd like to add that our natural resources are at the brink of extinction in Kula Kai. Our wetlands are one of the most valuable parts of our resources as it is needed for all life from mauka to makai! Water is life! Please protect the little we have left so that they may still flow for all future generations.
Aloha, My name is Shaun Stenshol,and I am the owner of Maui Recycling Service. We have been in business on Maui for 35 years and throughout these 35 years we have received several County grants to assist with our recycling programs, which have helped to keep thousands of tons of recyclables out of our landfills.
I am writing to respectfully urge the council to allocate more funding toward recycling grants in our community.
Recycling programs play a critical role in reducing landfill waste, conserving natural resources, and minimizing the environmental footprint of our county. However, many of these programs struggle to meet growing demands due to limited funding. Increasing financial support for recycling grants would empower local organizations, schools, and businesses to develop innovative initiatives, expand education campaigns, and enhance infrastructure—all crucial components in fostering a more sustainable future.
For example, with increased funding, the county could support recycling items in Maui County rather than shipping off island, creating a more reliable infrastructure and promote community-driven projects that encourage active participation. Some of the recyclables that could be targeted for recycling in Maui County are Glass, Cardboard, Paper and Plastic. This would not only benefit the environment but also boost public awareness and community engagement, strengthening the collective sense of responsibility for our planet.
As a community that values its beautiful environment and unique ecosystem, we have a responsibility to act decisively and invest in sustainable practices. Recycling grants are not just an expenditure—they are an investment in the long-term health, prosperity, and resilience of our county.
I respectfully ask the council to recognize the vital importance of recycling programs and consider increasing funding to support these efforts. Together, we can lead the charge in creating a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.
Thank you for your time and commitment to our community.
Shaun Stenshol
President
Maui Recycling Service
808-244-0443
I am writing in support of funding in the 2026 Fiscal Year budget for two local organizations: the Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center and Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
The Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center's Art Aloha Program brings together cultural practioners from across Hawai'i with the public supporting creative professionals as well as arts programming that is unique to Hawai'i. The art programs for keiki that the Hui does is extensive including free after school arts programs in public schools, at shelters, on Lanai and Molokai and at the arts center. These initatives reach a large number of keiki annually. I truly believe art is healing and for keiki to have access to free and accessible creative outlets is a huge benefit to our community.
Maui Nui Marine Resource Council is doing important work on Maui to study and document water quality, has coral restoration projects underway and has important educational resources on practices that help the reefs and oceans such as their Reef Friendly Landscaping Program. I am impressed with the work they are doing and see the great value this organization brings.
As a Kihei resident of 10 years, I am writing in support of funding for these two organizations from Maui County.
PLEASE OPPOSE BILL 49 (2025)
My concerns regarding the proposed wage increases for the Office of Council Services (OCS) resonate with the broader issue of pay equity among County of Maui employees. The significant discrepancies in compensation, particularly in comparison to departments like Finance and Emergency Services, highlight an ongoing imbalance that needs addressing. It seems unjust for positions with critical, frontline responsibilities to be undervalued while OCS personnel, who may have less direct public interaction, receive substantial raises. A more equitable approach would prioritize addressing the needs and contributions of all county employees, ensuring fair compensation and working conditions across the board. It’s essential to advocate for a comprehensive review of pay structures that reflect the vital work done by every department, rather than perpetuating a divide that fosters discontent among employees.
As the parent of two students at Kihei Elementary School, I am strongly in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, for school garden funding. The school garden provides so many benefits to our students including hands-on learning about nutrition and sustainability. It is one of the few places where students can learn in an outdoor setting which has been known to promote better physical fitness, reduce stress and anxiety, and can also help to improve concentration and focus. It provides an important balance to indoor classroom learning. I am very involved with our school and have volunteered for our school garden work days and have seen first hand the benefits it provides to our keiki. Please continue to provide this important funding so Grow Some Good can continue to provide our students with this valuable learning experience.
I am In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. The school garden program provides hands on learning experiences that supports academic growth, social -emotional development, nutrition and health, a sense of community and an understanding about sustanability and our island. Please provide this important funding for Grow Some Good for the fiscal year 2026!!
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. On a daily basis I see the garden as a place to help students who are emotionally dysregulated have a place to calm their emotions and thoughts. It serves as a quiet place to connect with and learn about nature.
Sincerely,
Erin Caraisco
Behavioral Health Specialist
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. Our students love the garden and it is an important part of our school!
Sincerely,
Rachel Sanders
Elementary Math Intervention Teacher
I am in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item to grant Grow Some Good for FY2026. I am an elementary school teacher in Kihei, and I greatly appreciate the experiences and education that Grow Some Good provides. Their instructors are knowledgeable and dedicated. The concepts and lessons are invaluable in creating students with an appreciation for natural systems and the effort that goes into food production. These life skills promote more conscientious and thoughtful consumption in our keiki, while also providing opportunities for leadership that benefit our community.
Thank you,
Elizabeth Culpepper
Grade 3 Educator
Kihei Elementary
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my appreciation for the invaluable work this organization does in our community. Grow Some Good has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing local food systems, and educating our youth about the importance of healthy eating and environmental stewardship. Their hands-on programs not only empower students to cultivate their own gardens but also instill essential life skills and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Supporting this grant is crucial as it lays the foundation for further growth and expansion of their impactful initiatives. I urge the County Council to recognize the significance of this funding and its potential to enrich our community. Thank you for considering this important support. We need our school garden. The students love it!
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. Since its inception, the school garden at Kihei Elementary has become a vibrant learning space and a powerful educational tool that has positively impacted the lives of our students, staff, and wider community.
The school garden is more than just a patch of soil—it’s an outdoor classroom where students connect with nature, learn about science, nutrition, sustainability, and responsibility through hands-on experience. From planting seeds to harvesting fresh produce, students of all ages have the opportunity to engage in meaningful, real-world learning that fosters curiosity, teamwork, and a deep respect for the environment.
Thanks to the garden, our school has been able to:
-Integrate garden-based learning into Hawaiian studies, science, math, and art curriculm
-Promote healthy eating habits by allowing students to grow and taste fresh fruits and vegetables
-Provide a calming, therapeutic space that supports students’ mental and emotional well-being
-Build community through volunteer opportunities and garden work days
However, maintaining a school garden requires ongoing support—for tools, soil, seeds, infrastructure, and instructional time. Continued funding will ensure that we can expand the garden’s reach, enhance our programming, and make this space sustainable for years to come.
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding.
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding which have helped my children develop their thinking about the environment, nutrition and responsibility in addition to providing an enjoyable school activity for student of various developmental levels.
I would also like to express my support for MEDB education-to-workforce STEMworks program, which has been a highlight of my daughter's time at Lokelani Intermediate school. She has learned new skills, expressed interest in potential career pathways, and developed teamwork skills while having fun and developing a sense of connection to her classmates and school. We are so thankful for how this program has benefitted her and her classmates and want positive programs such as this to continue in our schools!
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my whole hearted support for the continued development and support of our school garden at Kihei Elementary School. Grow Some Good has been educational and deeply empowering for our students and vital to our community's collective well-being. A school garden is much more than just a place to grow fruits and vegetables. It is a living classroom where students can engage on hands-on learning that connects them to science, sustainability, nutrition, and the natural world. It creates equitable access to green spaces and exposes our students healthy foods. This addresses disparities
and promotes environmental justice in meaningful, local ways.
Grow Some Good fosters a sense of belonging and share purpose, which also strengthens community bonds, encouraging intergenerational learning. Student gain critical life skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how their choices affect their health and planet. These lessons extend beyond the schoolyard, positively impacting families and neighborhoods. Please support school gardens, invest in our future, our health and well-being!
Sincerely,
Esther Byun
SEL & Student Voice Coordinator
Kihei Elementary School
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my appreciation for the invaluable work this organization does in our community. Grow Some Good has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing local food systems, and educating our youth about the importance of healthy eating and environmental stewardship. Their hands-on programs not only empower students to cultivate their own gardens but also instill essential life skills and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Supporting this grant is crucial as it lays the foundation for further growth and expansion of their impactful initiatives. I urge the County Council to recognize the significance of this funding and its potential to enrich our community. Thank you for considering this important support. We need our school garden. The students love it!
Mary Marchand
mary.marchand@k12.hi.us
Computer Science Teacher
Kihei Elementary School
Phone 808-727-4474
My name is Chelvi Renganathan, and I am testifying in support of Maui Economic Development Board's Economic Development programs that are in the Lokelani Intermediate School.
My child, who is in 6th grade, enjoys and learns STEM by using his critical thinking skills, analytical skills, teamwork skills and most of all he is in a good and positive environment.
We want our students to be surrounded in a positive learning environment that will take them far in their work life.
Please continue funding STEM programs in Lokelani Intermediate School.
My name is Kaitlyn Cole, and I am a resident of Kīhei. I am writing to express my strong support for increasing the county’s budget allocation for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council. This organization plays a vital role in protecting our coastal and marine environments from pollution while preserving Maui’s unique biodiversity. Their efforts include water quality monitoring at 41 beaches across Maui, providing essential data that helps ensure the safety of both residents and visitors.
Maui Nui Marine Resource Council has also pioneered Hawaiʻi’s reef-friendly landscaping program—educating our community on practices that protect our coral reefs and marine life. Most recently, they established a new coral restoration site in South Maui, offering a lifeline to degraded reefs and supporting the long-term health of our ocean ecosystems.
Your support for this funding is an investment in the environmental health, economic sustainability, and future of our island community.
Mahalo for your consideration,
Kaitlyn Cole
Community Enrichment Specialist
Pacific Whale Foundation
300 Ma‘alaea Road Ste 211, Wailuku, HI 96793
808-707-7108 (call only)
PacificWhale.org
My name is Patricia Cadiz, and I live in Paia. I am here/I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Maui Nui Marine Resource Council’s work includes:
- Monitoring water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui which tells us how healthy our ocean water is
- Conducting reef health surveys throughout the year which tells us how our reefs are changing and - where help is needed
- Developing Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program which teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs
-and planning to establish a new coral restoration area in South Maui which gives damaged corals a second chance at survival.
My name is Linda Gentiluomo, a resident of Kihei, HI. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
This organization does important work and a vital job in monitoring water quality at 41 beaches on Maui.
They are monitoring and surveying throughout the year , giving us important information on the health of our Reefs and how they are changing and where and if help is needed.
They have developed a really friendly landscaping program, teaching landscaping methods that are safer for our wreaths. I think it's the first search program in Hawaii. This is so valuable to our island and this education is sorely needed.
Also they are working on coral restoration in South Maui, helping to give damaged curls a chance at survival.
These are important programs and important work that needs to be done and I believe Maui County should be helping to support this organization.
Good evening County Council members,
My name is Brandi Corpuz and I live, work and play in Kula Kai. I am a community advocate for our wetlands and natural resources, affordable housing/ homeless solutions and Executive Director of Rooted Kekahi Me Ka Aina. My priorities for South Maui have not changed and I'm sure I have spoken to many of you about these very important issues before.
Infrastructure issues are number one on my list but do include many different aspects of infrastructure. These infrastructure priorities include more funding for Natural and wetland restoration projects for our local non-profits and environmental experts/advocates to create greenways, flood mitigation, native habitats, and open space infrastructure. The completed purchase and restoration of our Waipuilani and Kulanihakoi wetlands and the completion of the north south collector road that will go through these wetlands are all very important. We need wetland infrastructure to restore and protect our beaches, reefs, and endemic/endangered marine life, birds and plants and funding for the infrastructure of County owned land in Kula Kai to build truly affordable housing for our local people.
The county of Maui needs help to stop the extensive flooding that happens yearly or more in south Kihei by providing funding to hire local environmental experts, consultants and our local nonprofits to restore our wetlands of Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani. These are privately owned extremely valuable natural resources that are being destroyed by private owners' lack of care concerning what their actions or inactions cause to our ecosystem. This lack of care is seen in clear cutting trees, diverting water and building houses where the wetlands should be allowed to flow.
Money should be put into greenways in the areas that our community wanted to protect in our South Maui community plan. We should plant native trees and vegetation that not only provides protections and habitat for our endangered species but also provides open spaces for our community to use and allows our ecosystem to thrive.
Upgrades and improvements to our Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani bridge and culvert should be priority before any more developments are allowed to happen anywhere in South Maui. Recent damages to them both should prove that this is a priority for funding.
Additional money should be put into the open space fund for the purchase of Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani Gulches so that these precious resources can be restored and once again be a benefit to our ecosystem rather than a detriment. Technically they should be taken as an imminent domain all the way up to Kula so that owners aren't allowed to do whatever they want to our precious water resources. Private Landowners should not be allowed to name their own price when it comes to these resources that affect us all. The county should own all of our water resources.
The North South Collector road needs to be completed and this also has to do with infrastructure and our wetlands/natural resources as the road will go through both the Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani Gulches. Swalls and water basins should be made in the uplands of these gulches to slow the water during heavy rain and some type of overpass needs to be constructed as well. My community has only one way in and out of our road that connects to South Kihei Road only. This is a detriment to everyone who lives in my community and all of my neighboring communities from Waipuilani street all the way to Mokulele and North Kihei highway. Our flooding events prevent thousands of people from getting to safety due to no other alternative routes to flee from. A recent fire also caused panic with some of our community members as traffic was backed up to our street where the fire raged in 3 different areas, with nowhere else to go.
Kulanihakoi and Waipuilani wetlands, the beach reserve that surrounds them and the ocean and reef that are affected by them need protection and restoration. This also involves infrastructure but green infrastructure that benefits our ecosystem more than any other types of infrastructure. Funding these community assets and the organizations who have been working on them should be a priority. Ahupuaa restoration is needed on both of these wetland resources to protect our homes, roads, community members and endemic and endangered species that depend on these wetlands to survive. Our oceans, marine life, beaches, and endangered wildlife will become extinct in our lifetime if we don't protect these last remaining wetland resources now.
The flooding events and potential fire hazards that are caused due to lack of care by land owners just cost us $5.9 million dollars of our tax payers money. That does not include the recent clean up efforts or the damages to our roads, homes and bridges from January's massive flooding. As the Executive Director of Rooted Kekahi Me Ka Aina working in these 2 gulches for the past 5 years, I know firsthand the challenges we face. We need more money to be put into the budget specifically for the community organizations, environmental experts and practitioners who have already been working in these ecologically valuable wetlands. If the county spent 5.9 million to completely destroy Kulanihakoi of all vegetation on private property, then at least that much should be designated for restoration and green infrastructure to be put into place in these and other ecologically important projects.
Affordable housing also deals with infrastructure. The 150 acres of land in Kula Kai owned by the County should be made into affordable housing now with funding priorities given to the infrastructures and subsidies to the residents instead of developers! Money should also be put into a community fund to subsidize actual affordable housing for our longtime residents who are struggling to pay rent or mortgage payments. All the credits that are given to developers should be stopped completely because that has been proven not to benefit those of our community who really need it most.
I noticed a few things that confused and disturbed me in the Department of Finances report that raises many questions that I hope you will clarify before you make your final decision on our budget. Open Space and Natural resource fund dropped from $12,611,014 to only $6,503,886. for 2026 and the Affordable housing fund has almost remained the same since 2023 at $32,519,431.00 yet the Fridge Benefits increased to $171,763,735.
The Open Space/Natural Resource fund, environmental grants and the Affordable housing funds should be increased as they are the most important priority in every local family's lives. Please put our people and aina above all else. Thank you for your time and consideration of my priorities for the County Budget.
I'd like to add that our natural resources are at the brink of extinction in Kula Kai. Our wetlands are one of the most valuable parts of our resources as it is needed for all life from mauka to makai! Water is life! Please protect the little we have left so that they may still flow for all future generations.
Sincerely, Brandi Corpuz
Testimony for BFED Committee - 4/15/25
Aloha, My name is Shaun Stenshol,and I am the owner of Maui Recycling Service. We have been in business on Maui for 35 years and throughout these 35 years we have received several County grants to assist with our recycling programs, which have helped to keep thousands of tons of recyclables out of our landfills.
I am writing to respectfully urge the council to allocate more funding toward recycling grants in our community.
Recycling programs play a critical role in reducing landfill waste, conserving natural resources, and minimizing the environmental footprint of our county. However, many of these programs struggle to meet growing demands due to limited funding. Increasing financial support for recycling grants would empower local organizations, schools, and businesses to develop innovative initiatives, expand education campaigns, and enhance infrastructure—all crucial components in fostering a more sustainable future.
For example, with increased funding, the county could support recycling items in Maui County rather than shipping off island, creating a more reliable infrastructure and promote community-driven projects that encourage active participation. Some of the recyclables that could be targeted for recycling in Maui County are Glass, Cardboard, Paper and Plastic. This would not only benefit the environment but also boost public awareness and community engagement, strengthening the collective sense of responsibility for our planet.
As a community that values its beautiful environment and unique ecosystem, we have a responsibility to act decisively and invest in sustainable practices. Recycling grants are not just an expenditure—they are an investment in the long-term health, prosperity, and resilience of our county.
I respectfully ask the council to recognize the vital importance of recycling programs and consider increasing funding to support these efforts. Together, we can lead the charge in creating a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.
Thank you for your time and commitment to our community.
Shaun Stenshol
President
Maui Recycling Service
808-244-0443
Aloha,
I am writing in support of funding in the 2026 Fiscal Year budget for two local organizations: the Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center and Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
The Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center's Art Aloha Program brings together cultural practioners from across Hawai'i with the public supporting creative professionals as well as arts programming that is unique to Hawai'i. The art programs for keiki that the Hui does is extensive including free after school arts programs in public schools, at shelters, on Lanai and Molokai and at the arts center. These initatives reach a large number of keiki annually. I truly believe art is healing and for keiki to have access to free and accessible creative outlets is a huge benefit to our community.
Maui Nui Marine Resource Council is doing important work on Maui to study and document water quality, has coral restoration projects underway and has important educational resources on practices that help the reefs and oceans such as their Reef Friendly Landscaping Program. I am impressed with the work they are doing and see the great value this organization brings.
As a Kihei resident of 10 years, I am writing in support of funding for these two organizations from Maui County.
Mahalo for your consideration,
Naomi Glass
PLEASE OPPOSE BILL 49 (2025)
My concerns regarding the proposed wage increases for the Office of Council Services (OCS) resonate with the broader issue of pay equity among County of Maui employees. The significant discrepancies in compensation, particularly in comparison to departments like Finance and Emergency Services, highlight an ongoing imbalance that needs addressing. It seems unjust for positions with critical, frontline responsibilities to be undervalued while OCS personnel, who may have less direct public interaction, receive substantial raises. A more equitable approach would prioritize addressing the needs and contributions of all county employees, ensuring fair compensation and working conditions across the board. It’s essential to advocate for a comprehensive review of pay structures that reflect the vital work done by every department, rather than perpetuating a divide that fosters discontent among employees.
As the parent of two students at Kihei Elementary School, I am strongly in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, for school garden funding. The school garden provides so many benefits to our students including hands-on learning about nutrition and sustainability. It is one of the few places where students can learn in an outdoor setting which has been known to promote better physical fitness, reduce stress and anxiety, and can also help to improve concentration and focus. It provides an important balance to indoor classroom learning. I am very involved with our school and have volunteered for our school garden work days and have seen first hand the benefits it provides to our keiki. Please continue to provide this important funding so Grow Some Good can continue to provide our students with this valuable learning experience.
Sincerely,
Melissa McCormick
PTA Secretary & Parent
I am In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. The school garden program provides hands on learning experiences that supports academic growth, social -emotional development, nutrition and health, a sense of community and an understanding about sustanability and our island. Please provide this important funding for Grow Some Good for the fiscal year 2026!!
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. On a daily basis I see the garden as a place to help students who are emotionally dysregulated have a place to calm their emotions and thoughts. It serves as a quiet place to connect with and learn about nature.
Sincerely,
Erin Caraisco
Behavioral Health Specialist
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. Our students love the garden and it is an important part of our school!
Sincerely,
Rachel Sanders
Elementary Math Intervention Teacher
I am in support of the Department of Agriculture line-item to grant Grow Some Good for FY2026. I am an elementary school teacher in Kihei, and I greatly appreciate the experiences and education that Grow Some Good provides. Their instructors are knowledgeable and dedicated. The concepts and lessons are invaluable in creating students with an appreciation for natural systems and the effort that goes into food production. These life skills promote more conscientious and thoughtful consumption in our keiki, while also providing opportunities for leadership that benefit our community.
Thank you,
Elizabeth Culpepper
Grade 3 Educator
Kihei Elementary
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my appreciation for the invaluable work this organization does in our community. Grow Some Good has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing local food systems, and educating our youth about the importance of healthy eating and environmental stewardship. Their hands-on programs not only empower students to cultivate their own gardens but also instill essential life skills and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Supporting this grant is crucial as it lays the foundation for further growth and expansion of their impactful initiatives. I urge the County Council to recognize the significance of this funding and its potential to enrich our community. Thank you for considering this important support. We need our school garden. The students love it!
Mary Marchand
Aloha,
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding. Since its inception, the school garden at Kihei Elementary has become a vibrant learning space and a powerful educational tool that has positively impacted the lives of our students, staff, and wider community.
The school garden is more than just a patch of soil—it’s an outdoor classroom where students connect with nature, learn about science, nutrition, sustainability, and responsibility through hands-on experience. From planting seeds to harvesting fresh produce, students of all ages have the opportunity to engage in meaningful, real-world learning that fosters curiosity, teamwork, and a deep respect for the environment.
Thanks to the garden, our school has been able to:
-Integrate garden-based learning into Hawaiian studies, science, math, and art curriculm
-Promote healthy eating habits by allowing students to grow and taste fresh fruits and vegetables
-Provide a calming, therapeutic space that supports students’ mental and emotional well-being
-Build community through volunteer opportunities and garden work days
However, maintaining a school garden requires ongoing support—for tools, soil, seeds, infrastructure, and instructional time. Continued funding will ensure that we can expand the garden’s reach, enhance our programming, and make this space sustainable for years to come.
Mahalo,
Bianca Datiles
Student Activities Coordinator
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding.
Sincerely,
Bernadette Fulgencio
Grade 1 Teacher
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my support for school garden funding which have helped my children develop their thinking about the environment, nutrition and responsibility in addition to providing an enjoyable school activity for student of various developmental levels.
I would also like to express my support for MEDB education-to-workforce STEMworks program, which has been a highlight of my daughter's time at Lokelani Intermediate school. She has learned new skills, expressed interest in potential career pathways, and developed teamwork skills while having fun and developing a sense of connection to her classmates and school. We are so thankful for how this program has benefitted her and her classmates and want positive programs such as this to continue in our schools!
Sincerely,
Sommer Aumiller
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my whole hearted support for the continued development and support of our school garden at Kihei Elementary School. Grow Some Good has been educational and deeply empowering for our students and vital to our community's collective well-being. A school garden is much more than just a place to grow fruits and vegetables. It is a living classroom where students can engage on hands-on learning that connects them to science, sustainability, nutrition, and the natural world. It creates equitable access to green spaces and exposes our students healthy foods. This addresses disparities
and promotes environmental justice in meaningful, local ways.
Grow Some Good fosters a sense of belonging and share purpose, which also strengthens community bonds, encouraging intergenerational learning. Student gain critical life skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how their choices affect their health and planet. These lessons extend beyond the schoolyard, positively impacting families and neighborhoods. Please support school gardens, invest in our future, our health and well-being!
Sincerely,
Esther Byun
SEL & Student Voice Coordinator
Kihei Elementary School
In support of the Department of Agriculture line-item grant to Grow Some Good for FY2026, I would like to express my appreciation for the invaluable work this organization does in our community. Grow Some Good has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, enhancing local food systems, and educating our youth about the importance of healthy eating and environmental stewardship. Their hands-on programs not only empower students to cultivate their own gardens but also instill essential life skills and a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Supporting this grant is crucial as it lays the foundation for further growth and expansion of their impactful initiatives. I urge the County Council to recognize the significance of this funding and its potential to enrich our community. Thank you for considering this important support. We need our school garden. The students love it!
Mary Marchand
mary.marchand@k12.hi.us
Computer Science Teacher
Kihei Elementary School
Phone 808-727-4474
Aloha,
My name is Chelvi Renganathan, and I am testifying in support of Maui Economic Development Board's Economic Development programs that are in the Lokelani Intermediate School.
My child, who is in 6th grade, enjoys and learns STEM by using his critical thinking skills, analytical skills, teamwork skills and most of all he is in a good and positive environment.
We want our students to be surrounded in a positive learning environment that will take them far in their work life.
Please continue funding STEM programs in Lokelani Intermediate School.
Mahalo!
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Chelvi Renganathan
808.283.9658
Aloha,
My name is Ashlee Wells and I live in Haiku. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
I am writing in support of:
- Monitoring water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui: Tells us how healthy our ocean water is
- Conducting reef health surveys throughout the year: Tells us how our reefs are changing and - where help is needed
- Developing Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program: Teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs
-Establishing a new coral restoration area in South Maui: Gives damaged corals a second chance at survival
Mahalo,
Ashlee Wells
Aloha,
My name is Kaitlyn Cole, and I am a resident of Kīhei. I am writing to express my strong support for increasing the county’s budget allocation for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council. This organization plays a vital role in protecting our coastal and marine environments from pollution while preserving Maui’s unique biodiversity. Their efforts include water quality monitoring at 41 beaches across Maui, providing essential data that helps ensure the safety of both residents and visitors.
Maui Nui Marine Resource Council has also pioneered Hawaiʻi’s reef-friendly landscaping program—educating our community on practices that protect our coral reefs and marine life. Most recently, they established a new coral restoration site in South Maui, offering a lifeline to degraded reefs and supporting the long-term health of our ocean ecosystems.
Your support for this funding is an investment in the environmental health, economic sustainability, and future of our island community.
Mahalo for your consideration,
Kaitlyn Cole
Community Enrichment Specialist
Pacific Whale Foundation
300 Ma‘alaea Road Ste 211, Wailuku, HI 96793
808-707-7108 (call only)
PacificWhale.org
Aloha,
My name is Patricia Cadiz, and I live in Paia. I am here/I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
Maui Nui Marine Resource Council’s work includes:
- Monitoring water-quality at 41 beaches across Maui which tells us how healthy our ocean water is
- Conducting reef health surveys throughout the year which tells us how our reefs are changing and - where help is needed
- Developing Hawaii’s first reef-friendly landscaping program which teaches landscaping methods that are safer for our reefs
-and planning to establish a new coral restoration area in South Maui which gives damaged corals a second chance at survival.
Thank you for your condsideration,
Aloha, Patricia Cadiz
Aloha,
My name is Linda Gentiluomo, a resident of Kihei, HI. I am writing to strongly support increasing the county’s budget for the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.
This organization does important work and a vital job in monitoring water quality at 41 beaches on Maui.
They are monitoring and surveying throughout the year , giving us important information on the health of our Reefs and how they are changing and where and if help is needed.
They have developed a really friendly landscaping program, teaching landscaping methods that are safer for our wreaths. I think it's the first search program in Hawaii. This is so valuable to our island and this education is sorely needed.
Also they are working on coral restoration in South Maui, helping to give damaged curls a chance at survival.
These are important programs and important work that needs to be done and I believe Maui County should be helping to support this organization.
Linda Gentiluomo
687 Mililani Pl
Kihei, HI 96753