HLU-4 Bill 9 (2025) BILL 9 (2025), AMENDING CHAPTERS 19.12, 19.32, AND 19.37, MAUI COUNTY CODE, RELATING TO TRANSIENT VACATION RENTALS IN APARTMENT DISTRICTS (HLU-4)
As a property manager on Maui for the past 18 years, I have had the privilege of working closely with local families and employing over 20 Maui-based workers, including landscapers, window washers, cleaners, and maintenance professionals. I write to you today out of deep concern regarding the growing push to eliminate short-term rentals on the island.
Doing away with short-term rentals will not only directly impact my livelihood and the jobs of the people I employ—it will also take vital income away from local families who rely on renting part of their homes to make ends meet. Many of these families are already struggling with the high cost of living, and this revenue is often what allows them to stay on the island.
Furthermore as a parent and resident, Maui’s schools, roads, and infrastructure are already under significant strain. Eliminating a major source of tax revenue from short-term rentals will only exacerbate these issues. The tax income generated from these rentals supports essential public services that our communities rely on.
It is important to recognize that most short-term rental condos are not realistic long-term housing options for families. These units often come with only one parking stall, limited storage space, and layouts not conducive to family life. Shifting policy under the assumption that condos will provide “fair housing” is, frankly, unrealistic.
Instead, I urge the County to prioritize the development of affordable apartment complexes for first-time renters and thoughtfully planned neighborhoods that include sidewalks, parks, and safe spaces for children. We must also take a hard look at the continued approval of luxury condo complexes that are far out of reach for local families. These developments do not serve the needs of our residents.
The financial impact of eliminating short-term rentals will be deeply felt, not only by individual families but across the entire county. We simply cannot afford to cut off a major stream of locally generated revenue that helps fund critical infrastructure and community resources. Please, consider the real consequences this shift in policy will have on working families and the broader Maui community.
Thank you for your time and for your continued service to the people of Maui.
Very bad idea. 900 million in lost revenue for the island. 60 million in lost taxes. It will probably result in way more then the estimated 1900 jobs lost.
My name is Cristina Graziano, and I have been a proud Maui resident for over 20 years. For the past six years, I have worked for a locally owned short-term vacation rental management company that plays a vital role in supporting our local economy.
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed phase-out of short-term vacation rentals. This industry is a cornerstone of our community, providing jobs for countless residents and supporting local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and tour operators. Visitors staying in these rentals are essential to sustaining Maui’s economy, especially during challenging times like the post-Lahaina fire recovery and the current tourism downturn.
Eliminating short-term rentals would have far-reaching consequences, including job losses for many families and reduced county funding for critical services. I urge you to consider solutions that balance housing needs with economic stability, ensuring that our community’s livelihoods are protected.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration of this matter. I hope we can work together toward a balanced approach that benefits all.
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
Born and raised in Hawaii, I have been a Maui resident of over 30 years. I have many local roots throughout Maui County with both my family and my husband’s family going back generations on the island. Bill 9 impacts the livelihoods of numerous local residents, including family members, friends, employees, and business owners who rely on this industry.
As an employee at Papakea, I engage directly with colleagues and service providers, and I am aware of the effects that Bill 9 will have on these individuals and their families. I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 9 as drafted and to respectfully propose that Papakea Oceanfront Resort be excluded from its provisions, given its history, contributions, and unique nature within Maui County’s zoning framework.
Papakea Oceanfront Resort has historically been identified by the County as having A2-H2 zoning and has never been workforce housing. From its inception, Papakea was marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property. For nearly fifty years, owners have operated short-term rentals lawfully, relying on ordinances and policies that affirm this use.
Papakea differs significantly from long-term residential apartment complexes. With the majority of its units under 600 square feet, limited parking, and resort-specific amenities such as a front desk, activity concierge, and shared spaces, Papakea is tailored for vacation rentals rather than permanent housing. It is positioned alongside a stretch of hotel-zoned properties and multiple commercially zoned areas, further emphasizing its identity as a vacation destination.
Beyond its zoning and historical precedence, Papakea has made immeasurable contributions to the community. Resort operations provide stable, benefited employment to 35 local residents, many of whom have worked on-site for over 17 years, rising from entry-level positions to supervisory roles. Furthermore, Papakea supports local trade professionals—pest control technicians, HVAC specialists, painters, plumbers, fitness instructors, etnertiners, and contractors, among others—who thrive because of the resort’s operations.
Papakea’s individual owners also play a vital role in Maui’s economic ecosystem. Many small businesses owned and operated by Maui residents, such as housekeepers, handymen, contractors, and on-island agents, rely on the existence of Papakea’s short-term rental market. Curtailing these operations would disrupt the livelihood of local entrepreneurs, forcing them into less lucrative and rigid employment environments, in several instances outside of Hawaii. The flexibility provided by this industry provides the ability to balance family financial support with the demands of life and family in Hawaii.
Papakea contributes significantly to the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through property taxes (many at the short-term rental rate), Transient Accommodations Tax, General Excise Tax, and Maui County Transient Accommodations Tax. Guests visiting Papakea bolster Maui’s economy by patronizing restaurants, tour operators, state parks, and local businesses. Owners and guests alike participate in community activities ranging from beach cleanups to philanthropic efforts that enrich Maui’s cultural and environmental landscape.
In closing, I urge the Members of the Committee to recognize the unique status of Papakea Oceanfront Resort and the far-reaching implications of Bill 9 as currently drafted. Excluding Papakea from its scope aligns with the historical, economic, and communal contributions of this property, ensuring the preservation of a legacy that supports local residents, businesses, and the broader Maui community.
As a resident, I am concerned about the potential economic impact that Bill 9 could have on both the local residents and the island.
Thank you for your consideration of my comments. C.A.
I live in Kihei and I work on a snorkel tour boat out of the boat ramp down there. Great work and everybody is real nice. I'm usually pretty introverted but am a good diver so people always talk to me and want to learn about everything from fish in the water to the Hoapili on the land. When we're busy the money is good because we relay a lot on tips from the people who come out. A full load of 28 people (and 4 crew) usually means that we eat good that night. Covid was tough. The fires were tough as well. But those were unexpected and we got slow without preparing or knowing what was happening and for how long. Being in the south we picked up when greeen told people Maui was open and asked people to come back but now things are bad again and we can't predict anything. Business is slow sometimes bot even worth going out due to low numbers. We used to fun full tours all the time and even during canada spring break we had less than 10 people on board. Boss knows whats up and keeps us informed but I started to follow all this and it makes sense. People aren't coming because Maui isn't actaully open like they said after the fire and feel unwelcome and many people don't have faith that the place they rented will be able to have them.
Most of our tours are with people in Kihei and Wailea and probably most in condos not in hotels because thats where our biggest drop in volume has come from. Same number of hotel people but like maybe 2/3 of our boat are people in a short term rental.
Anyway, thanks for reading this but council you need to know that people don't just suffer when thier house burns down they suffer when they lose there job. I have had hours cut back and will likely be one of the first to be let go. It's hard to get other work as a second job because when things are good with tours we are up early and run through the afternoon so I can't be depended on at another place. This is my main income and after COVID recovery we were doing awesome and then after the fire it was good again. This is different and all my friends in other tour companies and restaurants say that they get chicken skin at the slowness and worry about wether they will be at there job if this goes through and we loose all those people who spend like drunken sailors lol.
I oppose this phase out because it hasn't even happened yet and so many of us are on the verge of another disaster but one that we can see happenind and we know who is causing it. Please vote away the bill 9 so its gone and lets not ruin good honest work for good honest people.
I am writing as a concerned short-term rental property owner to provide crucial market evidence regarding the proposed legislation to phase out Transient Vacation Rentals in A-1 and A-2 Apartment Zoning Districts.
Current Market Reality Proves the Policy Won't Work
The market has already provided clear evidence that phasing out short-term rentals will not create affordable housing for local residents:
Market Data:
* Hundreds of condominiums currently remain unsold in Maui
* Many of these properties are directly affected by the proposed phase-out legislation
* Condo prices have dropped over 20% due to uncertainty created by this bill
* Properties have remained on the market for more than 6 months without buyers
* Critical finding: No local Maui residents are purchasing these former STR condos
Why Most Local Residents Cannot Afford These Properties:
Even with significant price reductions, these properties remain unaffordable to local Maui residents due to:
* High monthly HOA fees (often exceeding $1,000)
* Substantial mortgage payments on properties still valued in the hundreds of thousands
* Operating costs including utilities, maintenance, and insurance
* Limited local income capacity relative to total carrying costs
The Unintended Consequences
The current market conditions demonstrate that the phase-out legislation will result in:
* No affordable housing creation - Local residents still cannot afford these properties
* Economic harm - Property values declining without benefiting the intended population
* Market stagnation - Hundreds of properties sitting vacant rather than contributing to the economy
* Lost opportunities - Elimination of economic benefits without achieving housing goals
A Failed Policy Experiment
The market has conducted a real-world test of this policy's effectiveness. With prices already down 20% and properties sitting unsold for months, we have clear proof that eliminating short-term rentals does not translate to affordable housing for local residents.
Instead of creating the intended affordable housing, this legislation threatens to:
* Remove thousands of jobs from the tourism sector
* Eliminate millions in tax revenue
* Create a stagnant real estate market
* Achieve none of the stated affordable housing objectives
Recommendation:
I urge the Council to acknowledge this market evidence and reconsider the proposed legislation. The data clearly shows that phasing out short-term rentals will not provide affordable housing for local residents while simultaneously harming our economy.
Instead, we should focus on policies that actually create affordable housing through dedicated funding, appropriate zoning, and targeted development programs.
Thank you for considering this critical market evidence in your deliberations.
I am a full time West Maui resident and I oppose Bill 9. I observe that every testimony here regardless of what side people are on is in agreement that we need more affordable housing. The problem with Bill 9 is that it will not result in the "affordable" housing its supports are hoping for. It would simply pull the rug out from under our already vulnerable and very interconnected community, further damaging our struggling local economy. If vacation rental owners can't rent their units many will either hold onto them or they will sell to wealthier off-island investors who can afford to keep them for personal use. Maybe we'll get more mainland retirees coming here, paying cash, and buying up the high-maintenance fee aging condos to enjoy their golden years. Investors who would normally invest in long-term rentals are unlikely to see the long-term rents pencil out at any affordable level with many thousands + per month in special assessments and fees. Is the County also going to subsidize the rents? Bill 9 does not actually help local families obtain stable and affordable housing. Meanwhile Maui residents and local businesses immediately will suffer due to a contracting economy and reduced visitor spending - reduced household income means housing is even LESS affordable. Additionally, Maui County will suffer devastating losses in tax revenue while exposing itself to inevitable lawsuits for years, diverting Maui County's funds and resources from away from creating real affordable housing solutions to help families get into homes and rebuild Lahaina. The biggest losers should this pass will be the local residents, workers, and small business owners.
RE: Bil 9 Oppose
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair U’u-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort which the County has historically identified as having A2-H2 zoning.
Papakea has never been workforce housing so it is not an example of a property that could be converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rentals. Our condos are small~ most under 600 square feet, There is limited parking and is not set up like an apartment building. There is a front desk and a concierge for activities. Several activities for guests are taught by local residents such as weekly lei making classes, yoga, water aerobics classes and hula dancing on Thursday.
Papakea employs many local residents from landscaping artists, pool workers, security, repair men, front desk workers, not to mention a huge number of housekeepers. My husband and I have owned a condo in the lovely Papakea since 2016. Before owning, we rented condos yearly for over 30 years. It was an affordable way to vacation and enjoy lovely Maui. While renting we took whale and dolphin cruises, day trips to Hana, bicycling down Haleakala, helicopter tours of the island, zipline excursions, as well as supporting the community through shopping and eating out.
All of the excursions that we have gone on have been excellent due mainly to the marvelous employees of Maui. Cutting the short term rentals, will greatly diminish the need for these workers. As an owner, we see our guests write about their vacation and the many wonderful experiences that the Maui people have given them. Our guests spend a great amount of money on tours and the joy of eating at restaurants.
We were in our condo from Jan 13-March 2. During our visit, we spent over $700 at Times Market, The Fish Market, and the Farmers Market, over $1100.00 was spent at Budget Car Rental, and $2500.00 at restaurants. It was fabulous to once again take our family of 11 to a luau. We also supported Rainbow Glass, Dan Browns Condo Care, Maui Fan Center Inc, and Appliance Service Co of Maui. Owners and guests to Maui greatly support the local economy, which gives jobs to the local people. As you can see, STR owners give a lot back to this lovely county.
Mahalo for the opportunity to comment.
Sincerely,Greg and Anita Vancilowners of Papakea K204
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort which the County has historically identified as having A2-H2 zoning.
Some facts about the Papakea Resort include:
• Papakea was initially marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties.
• Papakea owners have been operating legal vacation rentals for almost fifty years.
• The majority of units at Papakea are under 600 square feet and the property has limited parking.
• Papakea is not in a residential neighborhood and is located alongside a long stretch of hotel-zoned properties and directly adjacent to multiple commercially-zoned properties.
• Unlike apartment buildings designed for long-term residential use, Papakea has a front desk, shared activity space and numerous other common resort amenities.
The Papakea resort contributes to the community of West Maui by providing full-time, benefited employment for 35 local resident employees, some of whom have worked at the property for over 17 years. Papakea resort also supports many local trade professionals such as HVAC, pest control, plumbing, painting, electrical, general contracting, flooring, tile and masonry, tree trimmers and entertainers.
Owners at Papakea support many small businesses owned and operated by local residents from the Maui community who rely on the short-term rentals at Papakea including housekeepers, handymen, on-island agents and contractors.
Guests of Papakea support many small businesses on the island including restaurants, food trucks, tour operators, activities, state parks, the national park, and shops.
Finally, Papakea short-term rentals support the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through payment of property taxes , TAT, GE, and MCTAT.
I would like to thank the committee for the opportunity to comment and for considering excluding Papakea Resort from Bill 9.
Sincerely,
Maureen Donohue
3543 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Apartment L407
I write to you with respect and appreciation for your public service to our magnificent Maui Community.
I have been an owner of Mahina Surf #228 since 1999.
I have established significant business and social relationships with vendors and suppliers to my property that will be seriously and negatively impacted with financial devastation and loss of jobs by a short term rental ban.
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude the Mahina Surf.
Background on Mahina Surf
Mahina Surf was initially designed, marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties. (see attached documents circa 1969)
Mahina Surf owners have been operating legal vacation rentals since 1969.
Mahina Surf has never been workforce housing so Mahina Surf is not an example of a property that converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rental use.
The majority of units at Mahina Surf are under 600 square feet, limited storage, communal laundry, and the property has one parking spot per unit.
Owners purchased units at Mahina Surf with the reasonable expectation that short-term rentals were legal based on ordinances as far back as 1989.
In reliance on the Maui County ordinances and published documents, Hawaii state law, and constitutional protections, owners invested in costly renovations, furnishings, and long-term financial commitments such as mortgages that make any phase out of short-term rental right offensive to each buyer’s investment-backed expectations.
Mahina Surf provides full-time, benefited, employment for local resident employees; some have worked at the property for over 25 years.
Mahina Surf supports a wide variety of local trade professionals including pest control, HVAC, painting, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, masonry, flooring, and tree trimming.
I thank the members of the committee for their service and for taking the time to read my testimony in opposition of Bill 9.
Aloha Chair Kama, Vice Chair Cook, and Committee Members,
My name is Mark Janes, and I am a home owner and full-time Maui resident. I am writing in strong opposition to Bill 9, which proposes eliminating legal, previously grandfathered transient vacation rentals (TVRs) in apartment-zoned districts.
While I fully support the County’s efforts to address our housing crisis—particularly through the creation of true affordable housing for local residents—Bill 9 risks destabilizing a vital portion of our local economy and harming working families who depend on the visitor industry.
TVRs in apartment-zoned areas generate property tax revenue, local job opportunities, and support Maui-based businesses, from cleaners and landscapers to contractors and restaurants. Removing these legal rentals without viable economic replacement strategies could force higher rents, reduce County income from GET/TAT, and displace working residents, not protect them.
Maui’s economic ecosystem needs thoughtful solutions. We can—and must—support both affordable housing development and a thriving, respectful visitor economy that continues to fund County services and jobs for our residents.
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I am writing to oppose Bill 9 as currently written. The scope of the Bill is too broad and does not consider vital details for many properties that are listed. I request that the Council follow the advice of the Planning Commission and exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort from the scope of Bill 9.
Papakea Resort is currently and has historically been zoned A2/H2.
While I understand and support the need to improve the housing shortage on Maui, the removal of STR designation from an officially designated H2 location is unwarranted and unfair.
Additionally, I submit a short history for the Papakea property and its impact on the Maui community:
Papakea was initially marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties.
Papakea owners have been operating legal vacation rentals for almost fifty years.
Papakea has never been workforce housing so Papakea is not an example of a property that converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rental use.
The majority of units at Papakea are under 600 square feet and the property has limited parking.
Papakea is not in a residential neighborhood and is located alongside a long stretch of hotel-zoned properties and directly adjacent to multiple commercially-zoned properties.
Unlike apartment buildings designed for long-term residential use, Papakea has a front desk, an activity concierge, shared activity space, and numerous other common resort amenities.
Owners purchased condos at Papakea with the reasonable expectation that short-term rentals were legal based on ordinances as far back as 1989, and as recent as 2022.
In reliance on the Maui County ordinances and published documents, Hawaii state law, and constitutional protections, owners invested in costly renovations, furnishings, and long-term financial commitments such as mortgages that make any phase out of short-term rental right offensive of each buyer’s investment-backed expectations.
Papakea’s Contributions to the Community
Papakea’s resort operations provide full-time, benefited, employment for 35 local resident employees; some have worked at the property for over 17 years; some started in entry-level positions and worked into supervisory roles.
Papakea supports a wide variety of local trade professionals including pest control, HVAC, painting, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, masonry, tile and flooring, fitness instructors, entertainers, and tree trimming.
Individual Owner Contributions to the Community
Many small businesses owned and operated by local residents from the Maui community rely on Papakea short-term rentals including housekeepers, handymen, on-island agents, and contractors. These service providers set their own rates, work hours, select their own clients, work conditions and standard operating procedures. Shutting down short-term rentals at Papakea means telling local entrepreneurs that worked hard to build a small business that they need to just go get a job somewhere else to make less money, have less flexibility, and be subject to oppressive corporate policies.
Papakea STRs support the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through payment of property taxes (many at the short-term rental rate), Transient Accommodations Tax, General Excise Tax, and Maui County Transient Accommodations Tax.
Papakea guests support many small businesses on the island including restaurants, food trucks, tour operators, activities, state parks, the national park, and shops.
Papakea owners and guests regularly participate in community activities including volunteering at beach cleanups, Maui Humane Society, the hospital, and many other local organizations, and contribute to local philanthropic nd cultural efforts.
I would like to thank the committee for the opportunity to comment.
Sincerely,
Vickie Webb
This bill, along with any amendments to delay, or modify it should be vetoed. Our county will suffer irreparable harm (lost revenue, lost tax base, lost jobs, and declined values) if this bill passes. While Mayor Bissens out of the box thinking is commendable, it is not feasible. You think you will be helping working families when in reality you will be harming them. Working families cannot afford the increasing maintenance/HOA dues. Who do you think will be buying these properties? If empty, who will be servicing these properties. If long term rentals, who will be able to afford the rents? Candidly, if this vote passes, I too will consider moving off island. One less taxpayer contributing my high net income tax dollars to the county. Is that what you ultimately want?
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort which the County has historically identified as having A2-H2 zoning.
Background on Papakea and key reasons for Papakea's exclusion from Bill 9.
Papakea was initially marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties.
Papakea has never been workforce housing so Papakea is not an example of a property that converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rental use.
The vast majority of units at Papakea are under 600 square feet and the property has limited parking.
Papakea is NOT in a residential neighborhood and is located alongside a long stretch of hotel-zoned properties and directly adjacent to multiple commercially-zoned properties.
Unlike apartment buildings designed for long-term residential use, Papakea has a front desk, an activity concierge, shared activity space, and numerous other common resort amenities.
Owners purchased condos at Papakea with the reasonable expectation that short-term rentals were legal based on ordinances as far back as 1989, and as recent as 2022.
In reliance on the Maui County ordinances and published documents, Hawaii state law, and constitutional protections, owners invested in costly renovations, furnishings, and long-term financial commitments such as mortgages that make any phase out of short-term rental right offensive of each buyer’s investment-backed expectations.
Papakea’s Contributions to the Community:
Papakea’s resort operations provide full-time, benefited, employment for 35 local resident employees; some have worked at the property for over 17 years; some started in entry-level positions and worked into supervisory roles.
Papakea supports a wide variety of local trade professionals including pest control, HVAC, painting, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, masonry, tile and flooring, fitness instructors, entertainers, and tree trimming.
Individual Owner Contributions to the Community
Many small businesses owned and operated by local residents from the Maui community rely on Papakea short-term rentals including housekeepers, handymen, on-island agents, and contractors. These service providers set their own rates, work hours, select their own clients, work conditions and standard operating procedures. Shutting down short-term rentals at Papakea means telling local entrepreneurs that worked hard to build a small business that they need to just go get a job somewhere else to make less money, have less flexibility, and be subject to oppressive corporate policies.
Papakea STRs support the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through payment of property taxes (many at the short-term rental rate), Transient Accommodations Tax, General Excise Tax, and Maui County Transient Accommodations Tax.
Papakea guests support many small businesses on the island including restaurants, food trucks, tour operators, activities, state parks, the national park, and shops.
Papakea owners and guests regularly participate in community activities including volunteering at beach cleanups, Maui Humane Society, the hospital, and many other local organizations, and contribute to local philanthropic and cultural efforts. Including temporary housing for displaced people immediately after the August fire in 2023.
I would like to thank the committee for the opportunity to comment.
Sincerely,
Peter J Webb
3543 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Unit #G201
My wife Dorothea and I own a short-term rental property in Kapalua. We are writing to express our concern and strong opposition to the proposed legislation to phase out over 7,000 vacation rentals. We ask that you are selective in identifying the properties that you identify in providing housing for the Maui people.
When we chose to purchase our property in Maui we specifically chose Kapalua as it was a community that was built for vacation seekers and would not displace local families. We employ not only landscapers, house cleaners, and maintenance workers, but also our local booking management company. The people who help maintain our condo are being paid well above the minimal rate hotels in the island offer. We frequent not only the local stores but restaurants, bars, golf courses, snorkel/dive shops, and cruise companies. Unfortunately, many of the people we have become friendly with over the last several years have moved on as tourism is significantly down.
While Maui has some of the best beaches in the world, that is not why we chose to buy our condo in Kapalua. What kept us coming back to Maui were the people and the lifestyle Maui gives. Many of our return condo guests have noted the same. They have also informed us that staying in a hotel is not an option as it would require eating all their meals in a restaurant, not to mention the more than double nightly rate.
After the fire, we contacted people we knew in the region and offered our condo for their use. Thankfully their homes were spared; we ended up letting visiting clergy stay rent free instead. A local golf instructor who has become a friend has told me that it is getting progressively harder to survive in the area as his business has taken a downturn with the decreased tourism. His wife works in the hospitality industry and has had her hours cut back because business has dropped in the restaurant she works.
Kapalua is a resort area. It was never designed for local residents. We currently pay over a $1,000/month in maintenance fees alone. This does not include the massive insurance assessments we have been charged. Our condo has one allowed parking spot, does not allow pets, and has minimal storage. This is not workforce housing and our complex was never designed for longterm family use.
This proposed legislation and the uncertainty surrounding it has caused a civil war amongst the local population. If it goes through as the Mayor has proposed, Maui will certainly be worse for it. This proposed legislation as written will eliminate jobs and ultimately income for locals to survive. Legal short term rentals as found in Kapalua not only support the economy but the local families. Please exclude Kapalua Resort from the STVR ban.
As a property manager on Maui for the past 18 years, I have had the privilege of working closely with local families and employing over 20 Maui-based workers, including landscapers, window washers, cleaners, and maintenance professionals. I write to you today out of deep concern regarding the growing push to eliminate short-term rentals on the island.
Doing away with short-term rentals will not only directly impact my livelihood and the jobs of the people I employ—it will also take vital income away from local families who rely on renting part of their homes to make ends meet. Many of these families are already struggling with the high cost of living, and this revenue is often what allows them to stay on the island.
Furthermore as a parent and resident, Maui’s schools, roads, and infrastructure are already under significant strain. Eliminating a major source of tax revenue from short-term rentals will only exacerbate these issues. The tax income generated from these rentals supports essential public services that our communities rely on.
It is important to recognize that most short-term rental condos are not realistic long-term housing options for families. These units often come with only one parking stall, limited storage space, and layouts not conducive to family life. Shifting policy under the assumption that condos will provide “fair housing” is, frankly, unrealistic.
Instead, I urge the County to prioritize the development of affordable apartment complexes for first-time renters and thoughtfully planned neighborhoods that include sidewalks, parks, and safe spaces for children. We must also take a hard look at the continued approval of luxury condo complexes that are far out of reach for local families. These developments do not serve the needs of our residents.
The financial impact of eliminating short-term rentals will be deeply felt, not only by individual families but across the entire county. We simply cannot afford to cut off a major stream of locally generated revenue that helps fund critical infrastructure and community resources. Please, consider the real consequences this shift in policy will have on working families and the broader Maui community.
Thank you for your time and for your continued service to the people of Maui.
Very bad idea. 900 million in lost revenue for the island. 60 million in lost taxes. It will probably result in way more then the estimated 1900 jobs lost.
Strongly oppose!
Dear Chair, Vice Chair, and Committee Members,
My name is Cristina Graziano, and I have been a proud Maui resident for over 20 years. For the past six years, I have worked for a locally owned short-term vacation rental management company that plays a vital role in supporting our local economy.
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed phase-out of short-term vacation rentals. This industry is a cornerstone of our community, providing jobs for countless residents and supporting local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and tour operators. Visitors staying in these rentals are essential to sustaining Maui’s economy, especially during challenging times like the post-Lahaina fire recovery and the current tourism downturn.
Eliminating short-term rentals would have far-reaching consequences, including job losses for many families and reduced county funding for critical services. I urge you to consider solutions that balance housing needs with economic stability, ensuring that our community’s livelihoods are protected.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration of this matter. I hope we can work together toward a balanced approach that benefits all.
Sincerely,
Cristina Graziano
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
Born and raised in Hawaii, I have been a Maui resident of over 30 years. I have many local roots throughout Maui County with both my family and my husband’s family going back generations on the island. Bill 9 impacts the livelihoods of numerous local residents, including family members, friends, employees, and business owners who rely on this industry.
As an employee at Papakea, I engage directly with colleagues and service providers, and I am aware of the effects that Bill 9 will have on these individuals and their families. I am writing to express my strong opposition to Bill 9 as drafted and to respectfully propose that Papakea Oceanfront Resort be excluded from its provisions, given its history, contributions, and unique nature within Maui County’s zoning framework.
Papakea Oceanfront Resort has historically been identified by the County as having A2-H2 zoning and has never been workforce housing. From its inception, Papakea was marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property. For nearly fifty years, owners have operated short-term rentals lawfully, relying on ordinances and policies that affirm this use.
Papakea differs significantly from long-term residential apartment complexes. With the majority of its units under 600 square feet, limited parking, and resort-specific amenities such as a front desk, activity concierge, and shared spaces, Papakea is tailored for vacation rentals rather than permanent housing. It is positioned alongside a stretch of hotel-zoned properties and multiple commercially zoned areas, further emphasizing its identity as a vacation destination.
Beyond its zoning and historical precedence, Papakea has made immeasurable contributions to the community. Resort operations provide stable, benefited employment to 35 local residents, many of whom have worked on-site for over 17 years, rising from entry-level positions to supervisory roles. Furthermore, Papakea supports local trade professionals—pest control technicians, HVAC specialists, painters, plumbers, fitness instructors, etnertiners, and contractors, among others—who thrive because of the resort’s operations.
Papakea’s individual owners also play a vital role in Maui’s economic ecosystem. Many small businesses owned and operated by Maui residents, such as housekeepers, handymen, contractors, and on-island agents, rely on the existence of Papakea’s short-term rental market. Curtailing these operations would disrupt the livelihood of local entrepreneurs, forcing them into less lucrative and rigid employment environments, in several instances outside of Hawaii. The flexibility provided by this industry provides the ability to balance family financial support with the demands of life and family in Hawaii.
Papakea contributes significantly to the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through property taxes (many at the short-term rental rate), Transient Accommodations Tax, General Excise Tax, and Maui County Transient Accommodations Tax. Guests visiting Papakea bolster Maui’s economy by patronizing restaurants, tour operators, state parks, and local businesses. Owners and guests alike participate in community activities ranging from beach cleanups to philanthropic efforts that enrich Maui’s cultural and environmental landscape.
In closing, I urge the Members of the Committee to recognize the unique status of Papakea Oceanfront Resort and the far-reaching implications of Bill 9 as currently drafted. Excluding Papakea from its scope aligns with the historical, economic, and communal contributions of this property, ensuring the preservation of a legacy that supports local residents, businesses, and the broader Maui community.
As a resident, I am concerned about the potential economic impact that Bill 9 could have on both the local residents and the island.
Thank you for your consideration of my comments. C.A.
Housing is getting more and more difficult to acquire for local families.
I live in Kihei and I work on a snorkel tour boat out of the boat ramp down there. Great work and everybody is real nice. I'm usually pretty introverted but am a good diver so people always talk to me and want to learn about everything from fish in the water to the Hoapili on the land. When we're busy the money is good because we relay a lot on tips from the people who come out. A full load of 28 people (and 4 crew) usually means that we eat good that night. Covid was tough. The fires were tough as well. But those were unexpected and we got slow without preparing or knowing what was happening and for how long. Being in the south we picked up when greeen told people Maui was open and asked people to come back but now things are bad again and we can't predict anything. Business is slow sometimes bot even worth going out due to low numbers. We used to fun full tours all the time and even during canada spring break we had less than 10 people on board. Boss knows whats up and keeps us informed but I started to follow all this and it makes sense. People aren't coming because Maui isn't actaully open like they said after the fire and feel unwelcome and many people don't have faith that the place they rented will be able to have them.
Most of our tours are with people in Kihei and Wailea and probably most in condos not in hotels because thats where our biggest drop in volume has come from. Same number of hotel people but like maybe 2/3 of our boat are people in a short term rental.
Anyway, thanks for reading this but council you need to know that people don't just suffer when thier house burns down they suffer when they lose there job. I have had hours cut back and will likely be one of the first to be let go. It's hard to get other work as a second job because when things are good with tours we are up early and run through the afternoon so I can't be depended on at another place. This is my main income and after COVID recovery we were doing awesome and then after the fire it was good again. This is different and all my friends in other tour companies and restaurants say that they get chicken skin at the slowness and worry about wether they will be at there job if this goes through and we loose all those people who spend like drunken sailors lol.
I oppose this phase out because it hasn't even happened yet and so many of us are on the verge of another disaster but one that we can see happenind and we know who is causing it. Please vote away the bill 9 so its gone and lets not ruin good honest work for good honest people.
Aloha Maui County Council Members,
I am writing as a concerned short-term rental property owner to provide crucial market evidence regarding the proposed legislation to phase out Transient Vacation Rentals in A-1 and A-2 Apartment Zoning Districts.
Current Market Reality Proves the Policy Won't Work
The market has already provided clear evidence that phasing out short-term rentals will not create affordable housing for local residents:
Market Data:
* Hundreds of condominiums currently remain unsold in Maui
* Many of these properties are directly affected by the proposed phase-out legislation
* Condo prices have dropped over 20% due to uncertainty created by this bill
* Properties have remained on the market for more than 6 months without buyers
* Critical finding: No local Maui residents are purchasing these former STR condos
Why Most Local Residents Cannot Afford These Properties:
Even with significant price reductions, these properties remain unaffordable to local Maui residents due to:
* High monthly HOA fees (often exceeding $1,000)
* Substantial mortgage payments on properties still valued in the hundreds of thousands
* Operating costs including utilities, maintenance, and insurance
* Limited local income capacity relative to total carrying costs
The Unintended Consequences
The current market conditions demonstrate that the phase-out legislation will result in:
* No affordable housing creation - Local residents still cannot afford these properties
* Economic harm - Property values declining without benefiting the intended population
* Market stagnation - Hundreds of properties sitting vacant rather than contributing to the economy
* Lost opportunities - Elimination of economic benefits without achieving housing goals
A Failed Policy Experiment
The market has conducted a real-world test of this policy's effectiveness. With prices already down 20% and properties sitting unsold for months, we have clear proof that eliminating short-term rentals does not translate to affordable housing for local residents.
Instead of creating the intended affordable housing, this legislation threatens to:
* Remove thousands of jobs from the tourism sector
* Eliminate millions in tax revenue
* Create a stagnant real estate market
* Achieve none of the stated affordable housing objectives
Recommendation:
I urge the Council to acknowledge this market evidence and reconsider the proposed legislation. The data clearly shows that phasing out short-term rentals will not provide affordable housing for local residents while simultaneously harming our economy.
Instead, we should focus on policies that actually create affordable housing through dedicated funding, appropriate zoning, and targeted development programs.
Thank you for considering this critical market evidence in your deliberations.
Fanshu
I am a full time West Maui resident and I oppose Bill 9. I observe that every testimony here regardless of what side people are on is in agreement that we need more affordable housing. The problem with Bill 9 is that it will not result in the "affordable" housing its supports are hoping for. It would simply pull the rug out from under our already vulnerable and very interconnected community, further damaging our struggling local economy. If vacation rental owners can't rent their units many will either hold onto them or they will sell to wealthier off-island investors who can afford to keep them for personal use. Maybe we'll get more mainland retirees coming here, paying cash, and buying up the high-maintenance fee aging condos to enjoy their golden years. Investors who would normally invest in long-term rentals are unlikely to see the long-term rents pencil out at any affordable level with many thousands + per month in special assessments and fees. Is the County also going to subsidize the rents? Bill 9 does not actually help local families obtain stable and affordable housing. Meanwhile Maui residents and local businesses immediately will suffer due to a contracting economy and reduced visitor spending - reduced household income means housing is even LESS affordable. Additionally, Maui County will suffer devastating losses in tax revenue while exposing itself to inevitable lawsuits for years, diverting Maui County's funds and resources from away from creating real affordable housing solutions to help families get into homes and rebuild Lahaina. The biggest losers should this pass will be the local residents, workers, and small business owners.
RE: Bil 9 Oppose
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair U’u-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort which the County has historically identified as having A2-H2 zoning.
Papakea has never been workforce housing so it is not an example of a property that could be converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rentals. Our condos are small~ most under 600 square feet, There is limited parking and is not set up like an apartment building. There is a front desk and a concierge for activities. Several activities for guests are taught by local residents such as weekly lei making classes, yoga, water aerobics classes and hula dancing on Thursday.
Papakea employs many local residents from landscaping artists, pool workers, security, repair men, front desk workers, not to mention a huge number of housekeepers. My husband and I have owned a condo in the lovely Papakea since 2016. Before owning, we rented condos yearly for over 30 years. It was an affordable way to vacation and enjoy lovely Maui. While renting we took whale and dolphin cruises, day trips to Hana, bicycling down Haleakala, helicopter tours of the island, zipline excursions, as well as supporting the community through shopping and eating out.
All of the excursions that we have gone on have been excellent due mainly to the marvelous employees of Maui. Cutting the short term rentals, will greatly diminish the need for these workers. As an owner, we see our guests write about their vacation and the many wonderful experiences that the Maui people have given them. Our guests spend a great amount of money on tours and the joy of eating at restaurants.
We were in our condo from Jan 13-March 2. During our visit, we spent over $700 at Times Market, The Fish Market, and the Farmers Market, over $1100.00 was spent at Budget Car Rental, and $2500.00 at restaurants. It was fabulous to once again take our family of 11 to a luau. We also supported Rainbow Glass, Dan Browns Condo Care, Maui Fan Center Inc, and Appliance Service Co of Maui. Owners and guests to Maui greatly support the local economy, which gives jobs to the local people. As you can see, STR owners give a lot back to this lovely county.
Mahalo for the opportunity to comment.
Sincerely,Greg and Anita Vancilowners of Papakea K204
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort which the County has historically identified as having A2-H2 zoning.
Some facts about the Papakea Resort include:
• Papakea was initially marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties.
• Papakea owners have been operating legal vacation rentals for almost fifty years.
• The majority of units at Papakea are under 600 square feet and the property has limited parking.
• Papakea is not in a residential neighborhood and is located alongside a long stretch of hotel-zoned properties and directly adjacent to multiple commercially-zoned properties.
• Unlike apartment buildings designed for long-term residential use, Papakea has a front desk, shared activity space and numerous other common resort amenities.
The Papakea resort contributes to the community of West Maui by providing full-time, benefited employment for 35 local resident employees, some of whom have worked at the property for over 17 years. Papakea resort also supports many local trade professionals such as HVAC, pest control, plumbing, painting, electrical, general contracting, flooring, tile and masonry, tree trimmers and entertainers.
Owners at Papakea support many small businesses owned and operated by local residents from the Maui community who rely on the short-term rentals at Papakea including housekeepers, handymen, on-island agents and contractors.
Guests of Papakea support many small businesses on the island including restaurants, food trucks, tour operators, activities, state parks, the national park, and shops.
Finally, Papakea short-term rentals support the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through payment of property taxes , TAT, GE, and MCTAT.
I would like to thank the committee for the opportunity to comment and for considering excluding Papakea Resort from Bill 9.
Sincerely,
Maureen Donohue
3543 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Apartment L407
To Honorable Maui County Council
June 6, 2025
I write to you with respect and appreciation for your public service to our magnificent Maui Community.
I have been an owner of Mahina Surf #228 since 1999.
I have established significant business and social relationships with vendors and suppliers to my property that will be seriously and negatively impacted with financial devastation and loss of jobs by a short term rental ban.
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude the Mahina Surf.
Background on Mahina Surf
Mahina Surf was initially designed, marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties. (see attached documents circa 1969)
Mahina Surf owners have been operating legal vacation rentals since 1969.
Mahina Surf has never been workforce housing so Mahina Surf is not an example of a property that converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rental use.
The majority of units at Mahina Surf are under 600 square feet, limited storage, communal laundry, and the property has one parking spot per unit.
Owners purchased units at Mahina Surf with the reasonable expectation that short-term rentals were legal based on ordinances as far back as 1989.
In reliance on the Maui County ordinances and published documents, Hawaii state law, and constitutional protections, owners invested in costly renovations, furnishings, and long-term financial commitments such as mortgages that make any phase out of short-term rental right offensive to each buyer’s investment-backed expectations.
Mahina Surf provides full-time, benefited, employment for local resident employees; some have worked at the property for over 25 years.
Mahina Surf supports a wide variety of local trade professionals including pest control, HVAC, painting, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, masonry, flooring, and tree trimming.
I thank the members of the committee for their service and for taking the time to read my testimony in opposition of Bill 9.
Peter Jozwik
Mahina Surf #228
Aloha Chair Kama, Vice Chair Cook, and Committee Members,
My name is Mark Janes, and I am a home owner and full-time Maui resident. I am writing in strong opposition to Bill 9, which proposes eliminating legal, previously grandfathered transient vacation rentals (TVRs) in apartment-zoned districts.
While I fully support the County’s efforts to address our housing crisis—particularly through the creation of true affordable housing for local residents—Bill 9 risks destabilizing a vital portion of our local economy and harming working families who depend on the visitor industry.
TVRs in apartment-zoned areas generate property tax revenue, local job opportunities, and support Maui-based businesses, from cleaners and landscapers to contractors and restaurants. Removing these legal rentals without viable economic replacement strategies could force higher rents, reduce County income from GET/TAT, and displace working residents, not protect them.
Maui’s economic ecosystem needs thoughtful solutions. We can—and must—support both affordable housing development and a thriving, respectful visitor economy that continues to fund County services and jobs for our residents.
Please consider a more balanced path forward.
Mahalo for your service and your time,
Mark Janes
I strongly oppose this bill
The attached, is respectfully submitted by the Ma'alaea Village Association
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I am writing to oppose Bill 9 as currently written. The scope of the Bill is too broad and does not consider vital details for many properties that are listed. I request that the Council follow the advice of the Planning Commission and exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort from the scope of Bill 9.
Papakea Resort is currently and has historically been zoned A2/H2.
While I understand and support the need to improve the housing shortage on Maui, the removal of STR designation from an officially designated H2 location is unwarranted and unfair.
Additionally, I submit a short history for the Papakea property and its impact on the Maui community:
Papakea was initially marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties.
Papakea owners have been operating legal vacation rentals for almost fifty years.
Papakea has never been workforce housing so Papakea is not an example of a property that converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rental use.
The majority of units at Papakea are under 600 square feet and the property has limited parking.
Papakea is not in a residential neighborhood and is located alongside a long stretch of hotel-zoned properties and directly adjacent to multiple commercially-zoned properties.
Unlike apartment buildings designed for long-term residential use, Papakea has a front desk, an activity concierge, shared activity space, and numerous other common resort amenities.
Owners purchased condos at Papakea with the reasonable expectation that short-term rentals were legal based on ordinances as far back as 1989, and as recent as 2022.
In reliance on the Maui County ordinances and published documents, Hawaii state law, and constitutional protections, owners invested in costly renovations, furnishings, and long-term financial commitments such as mortgages that make any phase out of short-term rental right offensive of each buyer’s investment-backed expectations.
Papakea’s Contributions to the Community
Papakea’s resort operations provide full-time, benefited, employment for 35 local resident employees; some have worked at the property for over 17 years; some started in entry-level positions and worked into supervisory roles.
Papakea supports a wide variety of local trade professionals including pest control, HVAC, painting, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, masonry, tile and flooring, fitness instructors, entertainers, and tree trimming.
Individual Owner Contributions to the Community
Many small businesses owned and operated by local residents from the Maui community rely on Papakea short-term rentals including housekeepers, handymen, on-island agents, and contractors. These service providers set their own rates, work hours, select their own clients, work conditions and standard operating procedures. Shutting down short-term rentals at Papakea means telling local entrepreneurs that worked hard to build a small business that they need to just go get a job somewhere else to make less money, have less flexibility, and be subject to oppressive corporate policies.
Papakea STRs support the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through payment of property taxes (many at the short-term rental rate), Transient Accommodations Tax, General Excise Tax, and Maui County Transient Accommodations Tax.
Papakea guests support many small businesses on the island including restaurants, food trucks, tour operators, activities, state parks, the national park, and shops.
Papakea owners and guests regularly participate in community activities including volunteering at beach cleanups, Maui Humane Society, the hospital, and many other local organizations, and contribute to local philanthropic nd cultural efforts.
I would like to thank the committee for the opportunity to comment.
Sincerely,
Vickie Webb
This bill, along with any amendments to delay, or modify it should be vetoed. Our county will suffer irreparable harm (lost revenue, lost tax base, lost jobs, and declined values) if this bill passes. While Mayor Bissens out of the box thinking is commendable, it is not feasible. You think you will be helping working families when in reality you will be harming them. Working families cannot afford the increasing maintenance/HOA dues. Who do you think will be buying these properties? If empty, who will be servicing these properties. If long term rentals, who will be able to afford the rents? Candidly, if this vote passes, I too will consider moving off island. One less taxpayer contributing my high net income tax dollars to the county. Is that what you ultimately want?
Dear Chair Kama, Vice Chair Uʻu-Hodgins and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee:
I oppose Bill 9 as drafted and propose that the Council amend Bill 9 to exclude Papakea Oceanfront Resort which the County has historically identified as having A2-H2 zoning.
Background on Papakea and key reasons for Papakea's exclusion from Bill 9.
Papakea was initially marketed and sold as a legal vacation rental property before any zoning restrictions limited transient vacation rentals in apartment zoned properties.
Papakea has never been workforce housing so Papakea is not an example of a property that converted from workforce housing to transient vacation rental use.
The vast majority of units at Papakea are under 600 square feet and the property has limited parking.
Papakea is NOT in a residential neighborhood and is located alongside a long stretch of hotel-zoned properties and directly adjacent to multiple commercially-zoned properties.
Unlike apartment buildings designed for long-term residential use, Papakea has a front desk, an activity concierge, shared activity space, and numerous other common resort amenities.
Owners purchased condos at Papakea with the reasonable expectation that short-term rentals were legal based on ordinances as far back as 1989, and as recent as 2022.
In reliance on the Maui County ordinances and published documents, Hawaii state law, and constitutional protections, owners invested in costly renovations, furnishings, and long-term financial commitments such as mortgages that make any phase out of short-term rental right offensive of each buyer’s investment-backed expectations.
Papakea’s Contributions to the Community:
Papakea’s resort operations provide full-time, benefited, employment for 35 local resident employees; some have worked at the property for over 17 years; some started in entry-level positions and worked into supervisory roles.
Papakea supports a wide variety of local trade professionals including pest control, HVAC, painting, plumbing, electrical, general contracting, masonry, tile and flooring, fitness instructors, entertainers, and tree trimming.
Individual Owner Contributions to the Community
Many small businesses owned and operated by local residents from the Maui community rely on Papakea short-term rentals including housekeepers, handymen, on-island agents, and contractors. These service providers set their own rates, work hours, select their own clients, work conditions and standard operating procedures. Shutting down short-term rentals at Papakea means telling local entrepreneurs that worked hard to build a small business that they need to just go get a job somewhere else to make less money, have less flexibility, and be subject to oppressive corporate policies.
Papakea STRs support the State of Hawaii and County of Maui through payment of property taxes (many at the short-term rental rate), Transient Accommodations Tax, General Excise Tax, and Maui County Transient Accommodations Tax.
Papakea guests support many small businesses on the island including restaurants, food trucks, tour operators, activities, state parks, the national park, and shops.
Papakea owners and guests regularly participate in community activities including volunteering at beach cleanups, Maui Humane Society, the hospital, and many other local organizations, and contribute to local philanthropic and cultural efforts. Including temporary housing for displaced people immediately after the August fire in 2023.
I would like to thank the committee for the opportunity to comment.
Sincerely,
Peter J Webb
3543 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Unit #G201
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and Committee Members,
My wife Dorothea and I own a short-term rental property in Kapalua. We are writing to express our concern and strong opposition to the proposed legislation to phase out over 7,000 vacation rentals. We ask that you are selective in identifying the properties that you identify in providing housing for the Maui people.
When we chose to purchase our property in Maui we specifically chose Kapalua as it was a community that was built for vacation seekers and would not displace local families. We employ not only landscapers, house cleaners, and maintenance workers, but also our local booking management company. The people who help maintain our condo are being paid well above the minimal rate hotels in the island offer. We frequent not only the local stores but restaurants, bars, golf courses, snorkel/dive shops, and cruise companies. Unfortunately, many of the people we have become friendly with over the last several years have moved on as tourism is significantly down.
While Maui has some of the best beaches in the world, that is not why we chose to buy our condo in Kapalua. What kept us coming back to Maui were the people and the lifestyle Maui gives. Many of our return condo guests have noted the same. They have also informed us that staying in a hotel is not an option as it would require eating all their meals in a restaurant, not to mention the more than double nightly rate.
After the fire, we contacted people we knew in the region and offered our condo for their use. Thankfully their homes were spared; we ended up letting visiting clergy stay rent free instead. A local golf instructor who has become a friend has told me that it is getting progressively harder to survive in the area as his business has taken a downturn with the decreased tourism. His wife works in the hospitality industry and has had her hours cut back because business has dropped in the restaurant she works.
Kapalua is a resort area. It was never designed for local residents. We currently pay over a $1,000/month in maintenance fees alone. This does not include the massive insurance assessments we have been charged. Our condo has one allowed parking spot, does not allow pets, and has minimal storage. This is not workforce housing and our complex was never designed for longterm family use.
This proposed legislation and the uncertainty surrounding it has caused a civil war amongst the local population. If it goes through as the Mayor has proposed, Maui will certainly be worse for it. This proposed legislation as written will eliminate jobs and ultimately income for locals to survive. Legal short term rentals as found in Kapalua not only support the economy but the local families. Please exclude Kapalua Resort from the STVR ban.
Mahalo,
Greg and Dorothea Culbert
I strongly oppose this bill!