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)
Aloha, I work in a property management company in Wailuku looking after a number of resort complexes in regards to their AOAO fees, special assessments and insurance policies. I wish to express opposition to this bill as the costs on maintenance on these resort complexes are staggering high, and it will get higher as these buildings get much older. The long term rent on these places will be way over what most residents can afford. The HOA alone is higher than what the cost of an actual reasonable rate should be.
I have been hesitant to submit testimony but this issue is too important. We own one condo. Through blood, sweat, and tears we own this place. My husband and I have generational ties to Maui. Our team is an amazing group of women led small businesses that will not only lose their livelihood but most likely their own homes as a result of this bill. Outside of our immediate support, we have carefully and thoughtfully worked with local businesses to amplify their voices (refillable cleaning products and body products, tours, private chefs, massage therapists, and so on.). Beyond how proud we are of the team we work with, we are mindful of waste and who we bring to the island. We honestly say no more than yes to those that request to come to Maui. When we don’t rent our place, we fill the gaps personally and provide additional economic value through supporting small businesses and volunteering.
We ate sushiritos at Moku Roots while they were still in Lahaina and now send folks up to their beautiful upcountry events. We shop at the Napili, Upcountry, and Hana farmers markets. We have donated large sums of money and time to the Maui Humane Society and supported Wings of Aloha over the years. We have supported a local family post fire. We surf local breaks and make a point to pick up any trash we find. FYI, the weirdest thing we have found so far is a traffic cone and part of a toilet seat, and most common is hair ties…so many hair ties.
We bought at Papakea based on the original property documentation, vested use, and codification. As others have mentioned, we made a point to specifically research and determine that our unit had never been anything but a short-term rental which is what Papakea was designed, built, and meant to be. I would never buy local workforce housing. Our purchase wasn’t some dirty backdoor deal. The condo we bought sat on the market for nearly a year before we bought it.
I respectfully ask the County Council to uphold the Planning Commission recommendation which includes exclusion of properties like Papakea which has dual A2/H2 zoning. There are most likely other properties that need to be excluded, and I trust the Council will act appropriately.
If your rent went up more than your pay that's a transfer of wealth from people who work for a living to people who own for a living. HOUSING IS A HUMAN RIGHT. Nobody should be unsheltered living in bush tents streets cars or storage lockers. We must do better to keep workforce affordable very affordable .. stop all vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods... I want actual neighbors not a rotating cycle of strangers. Tourist belong in hotel zoned areas not in our neighborhoods.
Please oppose this bill! Taking the legal rights out of these owners, regardless of where they live, is not right. They did not steal those units, they did so legally in full knowledge these units are permitted to be rented out for transient visitors, they pay the appropriate taxes, they offered to lease their units to those displaced. Stop demonizing those who worked hard with what they have and stop being ha'akei to those who have more than you have!
Aloha and thank you ahead of time for your reading of this.
I believe you owe it to our community to walk the streets you represent and talk to small business owners and employees. It’s the middle of summer when things should be booming and small a time where small businesses make some money to off set slower months.
This is a challenging time as both our federal and state governments are impacting travel. Which is also impacting hotels as well. Hotels are relying on large groups and still at low occupancy rates.
You committee is supposed to be supporting and representing the community and not
One small sector with a loud paid for voice. This is why you are in office. To protect and serve our community members.
All businesses are struggling right now. Go walk through Paia, Kihei, Makawao town. Talk to the people that keep this entire island should be considering in this vote.
And the hotel supporters of this group. You are failing to see that those hotels don’t keep the money local nor do the guests that oftentimes don’t leave the resorts. They keep thier grounds green with large water use and the use other valuable resources.
Taking away legal vacation rentals will not create affordable homes. It will deplete our island of tax dollars and tourism spending.
Your policies have failed our community when you haven’t used affordable housing money for years.
Be the solution we need to see in the world. Don’t create more problems for the hard working community members of this precious place on earth.
Maui Mom. Community member. And a steward of the Aina’
Remember what Malama and Aloha are supposed to be
Aloha Chair Kama and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee,
We are full-time Maui residents, and our livelihood depends directly on the short-term rental (STR) industry. The income we earn from managing and cleaning STRs helps us keep up with the extremely high cost of living on island—covering essentials like our mortgage, food, and childcare. Without it, we would struggle to make ends meet. STRs are not just for visitors; they support real local families like ours who work hard every day to stay rooted in our community.
Bill 9 puts that at risk. Eliminating legal STRs in apartment-zoned areas won’t solve the housing crisis—it will only harm thousands of residents who rely on this sector. Many STR units are small condos with high HOA fees that make them unsuitable or unaffordable for long-term renters. Removing them won’t create housing, but it will cut off crucial income for Maui families and force some to leave the island altogether. We urge you to oppose Bill 9 and focus instead on real solutions like building new housing, supporting local jobs, and enforcing existing illegal STR rules.
I’d like to address an issue I think has been missing. No doubt, most of the comments address economics and job loss. All of that is decidedly important, but rather obvious. This has led me to wonder, since it’s so obvious this will have catastrophic economic impacts on the island, why would anyone support this? I don’t have the answer to that other than they want us gone. Everyone knows these small one bedroom condominium properties do not address the housing problem for families on Maui.
I would like to observe and comment on the reality of what this will look like.
I know people have this image of reverting Maui back to a beautiful, pristine, unspoiled, tropical paradise. However, I’d like to point out the reality of that delusion.
A trip to Molokai will show you what it looks like when you drive the tourists away.
Rather than a beautiful, pristine, unspoiled, tropical paradise, you will have a dirty, smelly, dusty, cesspool of rot and filth.
You will have rotting coconuts full of bug infested water strewn across your beaches. You will have an explosion of wild deer, pigs and chickens that eventually turn into carcasses. Your buildings will crumble over time into havens for crime and homelessness.
With no one to clean anything up, this is what will happen.
For many years, you will continue to have the oceanfront resort hotels in pristine condition. However, outside these resort areas, neighborhoods will become more like a Third World country.
I just like to summarize with an old cliché,
‘be careful what you wish for’
Aloha, I am a Lahaina resident for over 20 years. I am in full support of this bill. We are a working family and volunteer as much as we can in the community. Our interests are for the community as a whole, for Hawaii, the culture and its history. Enough already! People will still come and there are many places looking for help after the fire. The small margin of jobs that STR's employee, will be filled in other positions that have been struggling to hire staff before the fire and even more so after the fire. Why? Because there is no where to live!!! Yes, something must be done. We are on an island with limited resources. STR's have to go. Things change. We can't ignore the housing crisis any more. Also the water issue. Do the math..for the minimal economic boost from STR's, the amount of resources they use versus local families is uncanny. This isn't a new issue, we aren't the only community dealing with this. Please make the pono decision. Mahalo. -Heidi
Aloha, my name is Noelani and I am a resident of Maui, particularly in the west side by Kahana. I wish to oppose this bill as it will not bring more affordability. I do not own any STR but I know the cost of maintaining them are very significant. I provide housekeeping service and maintenance to 16 units along Honokowai to Napili. I employ close 6-8 people and we are compensated much better than if we were to be working for a hotel. The guests for these units are respectful and not maha'oi, in fact they regularly support local business.
P
My name is Colin Redekop, and I am the proud owner of a condo at Haleakala Shores in Kihei, which I purchased in 2021.
My family's love for Maui began in 2014, when we visited for the first time. That trip left us with unforgettable memories and a deep connection to the island. We knew we wanted to return — not just for ourselves, but to share Maui with our extended family and close friends. Over the following years, we saved diligently and began making regular visits, always dreaming of one day owning a home here.
After years of planning and searching, that dream finally came true.
Since our purchase, we’ve returned to Maui often, always bringing friends and family — some visiting for the first time, others seasoned lovers of the island. Each visit strengthens our bond to the community and the land.
We have reinvested all of our rental income — and more — back into the condo. We hire local tradespeople for upgrades, purchase appliances from locally owned businesses, and support local artists by decorating with their work. We also make a point of researching and recommending local tour providers, such as zipline operators and Molokini excursion companies, to our guests.
None of this would be possible without the ability to rent our unit when we’re not on the island. We purchased this property, paying a premium, with the understanding that short-term rental would help make it financially sustainable.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story. Maui is more than a vacation destination for us — it’s part of our family’s journey, and we are committed to giving back and supporting the community we now call a second home.
Aloha and thank you for efforts to collect comments. I am writing in support of Bill 9. Please prioritize existing units for housing moving forward. Plenty hotels and empty mansions to use. STRs make no sense, especially with how negligent these greedy people are with maintenance of buildings (or lack there of with some them) and water overuse with so many check-ins and cleaning. Invest in farms and the future of Maui, and frankly the Hawaiian Islands, being truly healed and restored to the Kanaka Maoli. Gotta step into the future of diversification of our economy - tourism is far too risky moving forward. No more STRs.
Bullet points with due respect and to condense:
1. Noelani Condominium Resort has been a Vacation Rental for 50+ years, before the advent of AirBnb and VRBO.
2. Purchased in 2008 and at no time was the Minatoya List mentioned or were we informed this Vacation Rental would be in question.
3. Real Estate Listing Attachment 1
4. Real Estate Information Form stated at time of purchase 4% of the property was owner-occupied, the rest Vacation Rentals.
5. Title Guaranty Escrow Company listed the Land Classification: Hotel and Resort. See Attachment 2.
6. Was told by the Pacific Island Home Loans Officer our loan rate % was increased above the normal because we were classified a Hotel/Condo.
7. 9/22/08 there was a Title Change. Document says: "County of Maui Real Property Tax, Section 3.48.305 of the Maui County Code pertaining to real property tax valuation and classification of land states that when property is subdivided into condominium units, each unit shall be classified for tax purposes as Apartment, Commercial, Homeowner, Time Share, or Hotel/Resort based upon its actual use. For the assessor to comply with this mandate, it is necessary to make a determination as to the actual use of a condominium unit." HOTEL/RESORT was checked and it was Received by the Division.
8. Noelani Condominium Resort has been in the AAA Travel Tour Book for decades. See Attachment 3.
We purchased this condo because we love Maui and have memories of bringing our hapa kids here where they felt welcome. We couldn't afford the mortgage, HOA fees and assessments without it being a vacation rental. Our guests review us and love the island. In our description of the property we foster respect for the island, its people and culture.
We also wanted to spend more time here when we retired, and we now bring our kids and hapa grandkids here so they can experience what we love.
Banning Vacation Rentals will have a dire effect on the places we recommend to our guests: Coffee shops, restaurants, excursions, small businesses from t-shirt shops to massage and nail salons. It will funnel tourists to the big hotels and restaurants owned with deep pockets. Our property manager, housekeepers, handyman, furniture shops (to keep our unit nice) are worried. Some do not have the strength or wherewithal to speak up.
Many of us pray the Council will do the right thing for the island. Ban the illegals but keep the tax paying ones that have contributed to the island for decades.
Aloha! I am a resident of Maui (born in Makawao and raised in Wailuku) and wish to express opposition to this shortsighted bill. My wife and I have a studio apartment in north of Lahaina operating as an STR in a multizoned complex (A2 & H2). I do not understand who will rent this studio at long term as the rent itself will be over $2,000 a month to cover the operating and maintenance cost. There is so much misinformation here about these STRs. We hire housekeepers to maintain them and they are literally being paid 3x more than working in a hotel.
I am local and native and against Bill 9. My family provides services for the industry and relies on the repeat tourists that come to minatoya property. We won’t survive without it
I am writing to highlight an important issue that is often misunderstood or overlooked: the economic realities faced by small communities that have relied on tourism for many generations. Maui County serves as a poignant example of both the opportunities and challenges that come with a tourism-based economy. As you look into phasing out toursim which is feeding 4 of 5 households please take into consideration of who needs current housing and who has housing that won't be able to afford living here if their jobs are eliminated. It currently takes income, sizable down payments and well paying jobs to buy or even rent any homes or condos on the island.
For decades, Maui’s breathtaking natural beauty and unique culture have attracted visitors from around the world. Tourism has become the backbone of our local economy, providing jobs and supporting countless small businesses. However, this reliance comes with significant vulnerabilities that deserve greater understanding and thoughtful consideration.
**Seasonal and Economic Instability:** Tourism is inherently seasonal, leading to cycles of prosperity and hardship. During off-seasons or in the wake of global events—such as the recent pandemic or natural disasters—our community faces abrupt drops in income and employment. Many residents struggle to make ends meet during these downturns.
**Rising Cost of Living:**
The influx of visitors and outside investment has driven up the cost of housing and everyday goods, while wages in tourism-related jobs often remain low and seasonal. This imbalance puts a tremendous strain on local families, making it increasingly difficult for them to afford to live in their own communities.
**Cultural and Environmental Pressures:** While tourism brings economic benefits, it also places pressure on our natural resources and cultural heritage. Overcrowding, environmental degradation, and the commercialization of local traditions can erode the very qualities that make Maui special. Our current community is paying the price for years of mis appropriation of funds and the lack of planning. Its up to you to find the balance and keep the culture of what Maui is. We aren't the only community that has rising costs and decreasing income as it current is. But we are a community that stand together and the aftermath of the fires proved that.
**Limited Economic Diversification:**
A heavy reliance on tourism can crowd out other industries, leaving the community vulnerable to economic shocks. Diversifying our economy is essential for long-term resilience, but it requires investment, planning, and support. The current farming plan and small industry we have can't and won't support Maui County's residents or its increased budget. Just this year in our community we have had schools tell us we have to pay for more supplies, the recyling center has lost funds for redemption and our local roads are in disrepair as are the parks for our Keiki.
Despite these challenges, the people of Maui County are resilient and resourceful. We continue to seek innovative ways to balance the needs of our residents with the demands of a global tourism market. However, we need greater understanding and support from policymakers, stakeholders, and the broader public to ensure that our community can thrive—not just as a destination, but as a home.
I urge you to consider the unique economic realities faced by Maui County and other tourism-dependent communities when making decisions that affect our future. Sustainable solutions must address not only the needs of visitors, but also the well-being and stability of the people who call these places home. And taking away the main source of income and putting condos on the market for rent that have the average maintenance fee's of $1500-$2000 a month is not a solution it's economic suicide.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Aloha council members. I am in full support of passing bill 9. I believe that STRs owned by out of state investors have no place in Maui or in Hawaii at all. The housing crisis coupled with the exponentially rising cost of living are making it almost impossible for native Hawaiians to be able to afford to live in their ancestral home. I myself am a native Hawaiian that had to move to the mainland due to financial hardship, and I’m trying desperately to come back home. Hawaii isn’t just a tourist destination or vacation hotspot or a place to exploit to extract profits from. It is a part of us, our history, our culture, and our identity. If this bill does not pass it will strengthen the precedent that has been set , that the Hawaiian government favors foreigners over native Hawaiians. If we can phase out STRVs it would help stabilize the housing market in Maui and hopefully the other islands could follow suit to combat Hawaii housing crisis. Mahalo for taking time to read my testimony.
Aloha Esteemed Council Members,
I am writing to express my full support for Maui Bill 9, which aims to phase out vacation rentals in apartment and residential-zoned areas. This bill is a necessary step toward protecting housing for residents and kanaka maoli who are struggling to find and afford homes in our community.
The increasing presence of short-term vacation rentals has significantly reduced the availability of long-term housing, driving up prices and making it difficult for local families to remain in the neighborhoods where they have deep roots. While tourism is an important part of Maui’s economy, it cannot come at the expense of the well-being and stability of our local communities.
Housing should be for residents first, not for short-term visitors. Every Maui family deserves access to affordable, secureplaces to live, without competition from investors profiting from vacation rentals. Phasing out these rentals in apartment zones will help restore balance, ensuring that homes serve their intended purpose—providing shelter for those who call this island home.
I urge the Council to move forward with this bill and take decisive action in protecting the integrity of Maui’s neighborhoods. Mahalo for your leadership and commitment to the people of Maui.
There were 2000 homes or buildings lost in Lahaina. Why are 7000 short term rentals in jeopardy for a situation that should not be blamed on property owners who invested in good faith? Any vote to curtail short term rentals will likely be found not legal and will incur much expense from government. Emotional testimony to eliminate short term rentals is not enough to make it stand to legal scrutiny. In addition, even if many owners are officially out of state residents, most spend a great deal of time in Maui and support the economy. They are not enemies and should not be treated as such. We are all USA citizens. Most short term rentals are beyond financial means of affordable housing, even with the drop in real estate value caused by this political situation. That may be cause for yet another law suit.
Aloha, I work in a property management company in Wailuku looking after a number of resort complexes in regards to their AOAO fees, special assessments and insurance policies. I wish to express opposition to this bill as the costs on maintenance on these resort complexes are staggering high, and it will get higher as these buildings get much older. The long term rent on these places will be way over what most residents can afford. The HOA alone is higher than what the cost of an actual reasonable rate should be.
I have been hesitant to submit testimony but this issue is too important. We own one condo. Through blood, sweat, and tears we own this place. My husband and I have generational ties to Maui. Our team is an amazing group of women led small businesses that will not only lose their livelihood but most likely their own homes as a result of this bill. Outside of our immediate support, we have carefully and thoughtfully worked with local businesses to amplify their voices (refillable cleaning products and body products, tours, private chefs, massage therapists, and so on.). Beyond how proud we are of the team we work with, we are mindful of waste and who we bring to the island. We honestly say no more than yes to those that request to come to Maui. When we don’t rent our place, we fill the gaps personally and provide additional economic value through supporting small businesses and volunteering.
We ate sushiritos at Moku Roots while they were still in Lahaina and now send folks up to their beautiful upcountry events. We shop at the Napili, Upcountry, and Hana farmers markets. We have donated large sums of money and time to the Maui Humane Society and supported Wings of Aloha over the years. We have supported a local family post fire. We surf local breaks and make a point to pick up any trash we find. FYI, the weirdest thing we have found so far is a traffic cone and part of a toilet seat, and most common is hair ties…so many hair ties.
We bought at Papakea based on the original property documentation, vested use, and codification. As others have mentioned, we made a point to specifically research and determine that our unit had never been anything but a short-term rental which is what Papakea was designed, built, and meant to be. I would never buy local workforce housing. Our purchase wasn’t some dirty backdoor deal. The condo we bought sat on the market for nearly a year before we bought it.
I respectfully ask the County Council to uphold the Planning Commission recommendation which includes exclusion of properties like Papakea which has dual A2/H2 zoning. There are most likely other properties that need to be excluded, and I trust the Council will act appropriately.
If your rent went up more than your pay that's a transfer of wealth from people who work for a living to people who own for a living. HOUSING IS A HUMAN RIGHT. Nobody should be unsheltered living in bush tents streets cars or storage lockers. We must do better to keep workforce affordable very affordable .. stop all vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods... I want actual neighbors not a rotating cycle of strangers. Tourist belong in hotel zoned areas not in our neighborhoods.
Please oppose this bill! Taking the legal rights out of these owners, regardless of where they live, is not right. They did not steal those units, they did so legally in full knowledge these units are permitted to be rented out for transient visitors, they pay the appropriate taxes, they offered to lease their units to those displaced. Stop demonizing those who worked hard with what they have and stop being ha'akei to those who have more than you have!
I OPPOSE BILL 9
GRAND CHAMPIONS VILLAS BY-LAWS clearly codify short term rentals as allowed.
"DWELLING MAY BE UTILIZED FOR LONG-TERM OR TRANSIENT RENTALS"
Aloha and thank you ahead of time for your reading of this.
I believe you owe it to our community to walk the streets you represent and talk to small business owners and employees. It’s the middle of summer when things should be booming and small a time where small businesses make some money to off set slower months.
This is a challenging time as both our federal and state governments are impacting travel. Which is also impacting hotels as well. Hotels are relying on large groups and still at low occupancy rates.
You committee is supposed to be supporting and representing the community and not
One small sector with a loud paid for voice. This is why you are in office. To protect and serve our community members.
All businesses are struggling right now. Go walk through Paia, Kihei, Makawao town. Talk to the people that keep this entire island should be considering in this vote.
And the hotel supporters of this group. You are failing to see that those hotels don’t keep the money local nor do the guests that oftentimes don’t leave the resorts. They keep thier grounds green with large water use and the use other valuable resources.
Taking away legal vacation rentals will not create affordable homes. It will deplete our island of tax dollars and tourism spending.
Your policies have failed our community when you haven’t used affordable housing money for years.
Be the solution we need to see in the world. Don’t create more problems for the hard working community members of this precious place on earth.
Maui Mom. Community member. And a steward of the Aina’
Remember what Malama and Aloha are supposed to be
where do the comments go once typed in
Aloha Chair Kama and Members of the Housing and Land Use Committee,
We are full-time Maui residents, and our livelihood depends directly on the short-term rental (STR) industry. The income we earn from managing and cleaning STRs helps us keep up with the extremely high cost of living on island—covering essentials like our mortgage, food, and childcare. Without it, we would struggle to make ends meet. STRs are not just for visitors; they support real local families like ours who work hard every day to stay rooted in our community.
Bill 9 puts that at risk. Eliminating legal STRs in apartment-zoned areas won’t solve the housing crisis—it will only harm thousands of residents who rely on this sector. Many STR units are small condos with high HOA fees that make them unsuitable or unaffordable for long-term renters. Removing them won’t create housing, but it will cut off crucial income for Maui families and force some to leave the island altogether. We urge you to oppose Bill 9 and focus instead on real solutions like building new housing, supporting local jobs, and enforcing existing illegal STR rules.
Mahalo for your time and consideration.
I’d like to address an issue I think has been missing. No doubt, most of the comments address economics and job loss. All of that is decidedly important, but rather obvious. This has led me to wonder, since it’s so obvious this will have catastrophic economic impacts on the island, why would anyone support this? I don’t have the answer to that other than they want us gone. Everyone knows these small one bedroom condominium properties do not address the housing problem for families on Maui.
I would like to observe and comment on the reality of what this will look like.
I know people have this image of reverting Maui back to a beautiful, pristine, unspoiled, tropical paradise. However, I’d like to point out the reality of that delusion.
A trip to Molokai will show you what it looks like when you drive the tourists away.
Rather than a beautiful, pristine, unspoiled, tropical paradise, you will have a dirty, smelly, dusty, cesspool of rot and filth.
You will have rotting coconuts full of bug infested water strewn across your beaches. You will have an explosion of wild deer, pigs and chickens that eventually turn into carcasses. Your buildings will crumble over time into havens for crime and homelessness.
With no one to clean anything up, this is what will happen.
For many years, you will continue to have the oceanfront resort hotels in pristine condition. However, outside these resort areas, neighborhoods will become more like a Third World country.
I just like to summarize with an old cliché,
‘be careful what you wish for’
Aloha, I am a Lahaina resident for over 20 years. I am in full support of this bill. We are a working family and volunteer as much as we can in the community. Our interests are for the community as a whole, for Hawaii, the culture and its history. Enough already! People will still come and there are many places looking for help after the fire. The small margin of jobs that STR's employee, will be filled in other positions that have been struggling to hire staff before the fire and even more so after the fire. Why? Because there is no where to live!!! Yes, something must be done. We are on an island with limited resources. STR's have to go. Things change. We can't ignore the housing crisis any more. Also the water issue. Do the math..for the minimal economic boost from STR's, the amount of resources they use versus local families is uncanny. This isn't a new issue, we aren't the only community dealing with this. Please make the pono decision. Mahalo. -Heidi
Aloha, my name is Noelani and I am a resident of Maui, particularly in the west side by Kahana. I wish to oppose this bill as it will not bring more affordability. I do not own any STR but I know the cost of maintaining them are very significant. I provide housekeeping service and maintenance to 16 units along Honokowai to Napili. I employ close 6-8 people and we are compensated much better than if we were to be working for a hotel. The guests for these units are respectful and not maha'oi, in fact they regularly support local business.
P
Good day,
My name is Colin Redekop, and I am the proud owner of a condo at Haleakala Shores in Kihei, which I purchased in 2021.
My family's love for Maui began in 2014, when we visited for the first time. That trip left us with unforgettable memories and a deep connection to the island. We knew we wanted to return — not just for ourselves, but to share Maui with our extended family and close friends. Over the following years, we saved diligently and began making regular visits, always dreaming of one day owning a home here.
After years of planning and searching, that dream finally came true.
Since our purchase, we’ve returned to Maui often, always bringing friends and family — some visiting for the first time, others seasoned lovers of the island. Each visit strengthens our bond to the community and the land.
We have reinvested all of our rental income — and more — back into the condo. We hire local tradespeople for upgrades, purchase appliances from locally owned businesses, and support local artists by decorating with their work. We also make a point of researching and recommending local tour providers, such as zipline operators and Molokini excursion companies, to our guests.
None of this would be possible without the ability to rent our unit when we’re not on the island. We purchased this property, paying a premium, with the understanding that short-term rental would help make it financially sustainable.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story. Maui is more than a vacation destination for us — it’s part of our family’s journey, and we are committed to giving back and supporting the community we now call a second home.
Sincerely,
Colin Redekop
Aloha and thank you for efforts to collect comments. I am writing in support of Bill 9. Please prioritize existing units for housing moving forward. Plenty hotels and empty mansions to use. STRs make no sense, especially with how negligent these greedy people are with maintenance of buildings (or lack there of with some them) and water overuse with so many check-ins and cleaning. Invest in farms and the future of Maui, and frankly the Hawaiian Islands, being truly healed and restored to the Kanaka Maoli. Gotta step into the future of diversification of our economy - tourism is far too risky moving forward. No more STRs.
Bullet points with due respect and to condense:
1. Noelani Condominium Resort has been a Vacation Rental for 50+ years, before the advent of AirBnb and VRBO.
2. Purchased in 2008 and at no time was the Minatoya List mentioned or were we informed this Vacation Rental would be in question.
3. Real Estate Listing Attachment 1
4. Real Estate Information Form stated at time of purchase 4% of the property was owner-occupied, the rest Vacation Rentals.
5. Title Guaranty Escrow Company listed the Land Classification: Hotel and Resort. See Attachment 2.
6. Was told by the Pacific Island Home Loans Officer our loan rate % was increased above the normal because we were classified a Hotel/Condo.
7. 9/22/08 there was a Title Change. Document says: "County of Maui Real Property Tax, Section 3.48.305 of the Maui County Code pertaining to real property tax valuation and classification of land states that when property is subdivided into condominium units, each unit shall be classified for tax purposes as Apartment, Commercial, Homeowner, Time Share, or Hotel/Resort based upon its actual use. For the assessor to comply with this mandate, it is necessary to make a determination as to the actual use of a condominium unit." HOTEL/RESORT was checked and it was Received by the Division.
8. Noelani Condominium Resort has been in the AAA Travel Tour Book for decades. See Attachment 3.
We purchased this condo because we love Maui and have memories of bringing our hapa kids here where they felt welcome. We couldn't afford the mortgage, HOA fees and assessments without it being a vacation rental. Our guests review us and love the island. In our description of the property we foster respect for the island, its people and culture.
We also wanted to spend more time here when we retired, and we now bring our kids and hapa grandkids here so they can experience what we love.
Banning Vacation Rentals will have a dire effect on the places we recommend to our guests: Coffee shops, restaurants, excursions, small businesses from t-shirt shops to massage and nail salons. It will funnel tourists to the big hotels and restaurants owned with deep pockets. Our property manager, housekeepers, handyman, furniture shops (to keep our unit nice) are worried. Some do not have the strength or wherewithal to speak up.
Many of us pray the Council will do the right thing for the island. Ban the illegals but keep the tax paying ones that have contributed to the island for decades.
Aloha! I am a resident of Maui (born in Makawao and raised in Wailuku) and wish to express opposition to this shortsighted bill. My wife and I have a studio apartment in north of Lahaina operating as an STR in a multizoned complex (A2 & H2). I do not understand who will rent this studio at long term as the rent itself will be over $2,000 a month to cover the operating and maintenance cost. There is so much misinformation here about these STRs. We hire housekeepers to maintain them and they are literally being paid 3x more than working in a hotel.
I am local and native and against Bill 9. My family provides services for the industry and relies on the repeat tourists that come to minatoya property. We won’t survive without it
I am writing to highlight an important issue that is often misunderstood or overlooked: the economic realities faced by small communities that have relied on tourism for many generations. Maui County serves as a poignant example of both the opportunities and challenges that come with a tourism-based economy. As you look into phasing out toursim which is feeding 4 of 5 households please take into consideration of who needs current housing and who has housing that won't be able to afford living here if their jobs are eliminated. It currently takes income, sizable down payments and well paying jobs to buy or even rent any homes or condos on the island.
For decades, Maui’s breathtaking natural beauty and unique culture have attracted visitors from around the world. Tourism has become the backbone of our local economy, providing jobs and supporting countless small businesses. However, this reliance comes with significant vulnerabilities that deserve greater understanding and thoughtful consideration.
**Seasonal and Economic Instability:** Tourism is inherently seasonal, leading to cycles of prosperity and hardship. During off-seasons or in the wake of global events—such as the recent pandemic or natural disasters—our community faces abrupt drops in income and employment. Many residents struggle to make ends meet during these downturns.
**Rising Cost of Living:**
The influx of visitors and outside investment has driven up the cost of housing and everyday goods, while wages in tourism-related jobs often remain low and seasonal. This imbalance puts a tremendous strain on local families, making it increasingly difficult for them to afford to live in their own communities.
**Cultural and Environmental Pressures:** While tourism brings economic benefits, it also places pressure on our natural resources and cultural heritage. Overcrowding, environmental degradation, and the commercialization of local traditions can erode the very qualities that make Maui special. Our current community is paying the price for years of mis appropriation of funds and the lack of planning. Its up to you to find the balance and keep the culture of what Maui is. We aren't the only community that has rising costs and decreasing income as it current is. But we are a community that stand together and the aftermath of the fires proved that.
**Limited Economic Diversification:**
A heavy reliance on tourism can crowd out other industries, leaving the community vulnerable to economic shocks. Diversifying our economy is essential for long-term resilience, but it requires investment, planning, and support. The current farming plan and small industry we have can't and won't support Maui County's residents or its increased budget. Just this year in our community we have had schools tell us we have to pay for more supplies, the recyling center has lost funds for redemption and our local roads are in disrepair as are the parks for our Keiki.
Despite these challenges, the people of Maui County are resilient and resourceful. We continue to seek innovative ways to balance the needs of our residents with the demands of a global tourism market. However, we need greater understanding and support from policymakers, stakeholders, and the broader public to ensure that our community can thrive—not just as a destination, but as a home.
I urge you to consider the unique economic realities faced by Maui County and other tourism-dependent communities when making decisions that affect our future. Sustainable solutions must address not only the needs of visitors, but also the well-being and stability of the people who call these places home. And taking away the main source of income and putting condos on the market for rent that have the average maintenance fee's of $1500-$2000 a month is not a solution it's economic suicide.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Aloha council members. I am in full support of passing bill 9. I believe that STRs owned by out of state investors have no place in Maui or in Hawaii at all. The housing crisis coupled with the exponentially rising cost of living are making it almost impossible for native Hawaiians to be able to afford to live in their ancestral home. I myself am a native Hawaiian that had to move to the mainland due to financial hardship, and I’m trying desperately to come back home. Hawaii isn’t just a tourist destination or vacation hotspot or a place to exploit to extract profits from. It is a part of us, our history, our culture, and our identity. If this bill does not pass it will strengthen the precedent that has been set , that the Hawaiian government favors foreigners over native Hawaiians. If we can phase out STRVs it would help stabilize the housing market in Maui and hopefully the other islands could follow suit to combat Hawaii housing crisis. Mahalo for taking time to read my testimony.
Aloha Esteemed Council Members,
I am writing to express my full support for Maui Bill 9, which aims to phase out vacation rentals in apartment and residential-zoned areas. This bill is a necessary step toward protecting housing for residents and kanaka maoli who are struggling to find and afford homes in our community.
The increasing presence of short-term vacation rentals has significantly reduced the availability of long-term housing, driving up prices and making it difficult for local families to remain in the neighborhoods where they have deep roots. While tourism is an important part of Maui’s economy, it cannot come at the expense of the well-being and stability of our local communities.
Housing should be for residents first, not for short-term visitors. Every Maui family deserves access to affordable, secureplaces to live, without competition from investors profiting from vacation rentals. Phasing out these rentals in apartment zones will help restore balance, ensuring that homes serve their intended purpose—providing shelter for those who call this island home.
I urge the Council to move forward with this bill and take decisive action in protecting the integrity of Maui’s neighborhoods. Mahalo for your leadership and commitment to the people of Maui.
There were 2000 homes or buildings lost in Lahaina. Why are 7000 short term rentals in jeopardy for a situation that should not be blamed on property owners who invested in good faith? Any vote to curtail short term rentals will likely be found not legal and will incur much expense from government. Emotional testimony to eliminate short term rentals is not enough to make it stand to legal scrutiny. In addition, even if many owners are officially out of state residents, most spend a great deal of time in Maui and support the economy. They are not enemies and should not be treated as such. We are all USA citizens. Most short term rentals are beyond financial means of affordable housing, even with the drop in real estate value caused by this political situation. That may be cause for yet another law suit.