Continuing Updates Regarding Bill 9

The Maui County Council has scheduled November 20 as the date to release detailed information regarding the three applicants under consideration to fill the vacancy left by Councilmember Tasha Kama. The presentation will outline each candidate’s experience, qualifications, and potential priorities if selected. This informational session is intended to give the public increased transparency into the selection process.

We are continuously monitoring this matter, given its broad implications for tourism, retail, restaurants, and the overall economic landscape. We will keep you updated as events continue to unfold.

Maui Police Department’s MMEU Program Brings Vital Services to Kihei’s Homeless Community

The Maui Police Department continues to expand its compassionate outreach with the MMEU (Mobile Medical Educational Unit) Program, a mobile initiative dedicated to assisting Maui’s homeless community by bringing essential services directly to them.

Every Monday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., the MMEU bus parks at Kalama Park in Kihei, providing free access to a wide range of health and wellness resources.

The program offers:

  • Food stamp assistance
  • Non-critical wound care
  • Health check-ups
  • Mental health counseling
  • Wellness assessments
  • Financial services guidance
  • Animal care and check-ups

This outreach effort is made possible through the CORE (Critical Outreach & Response through Education) team, located at 55 Mahalani Street in Wailuku. Their mission focuses on connecting Maui’s vulnerable populations with healthcare, education, and social support.

The MMEU Program works closely with a strong network of community partners, including:

  • A Cup of Cold Water
  • Aloha House
  • Department of Education’s Homeless Outreach for Unsheltered Youth
  • Goodwill Hawaii
  • Maui AIDS Foundation
  • Maui Humane Society
  • Private practitioners

Together, these organizations form a caring coalition dedicated to restoring dignity and stability for Maui’s houseless residents.

For more information about the program or to connect with CORE, contact them at (808) 270-6555 or email CORE@mpd.net.

Mahalo to the Maui Police Department and its community partners for their ongoing commitment to compassion, service, and outreach across the island.

Photo and information courtesy of the Maui Police Department.

Hanauma Bay’s Big Change: New Shuttle System and Booking Rules Start November 1

Big changes are coming to Hanauma Bay starting November 1, as the City of Honolulu launches a new partnership with Roberts Hawaii aimed at reducing congestion and improving the visitor experience. Up to 400 of the 1,400 daily visitor spots will now be tied to Roberts Hawaii’s all-electric shuttle packages from Waikiki and Ala Moana, allowing bookings up to 60 days in advance—while the city’s own reservations will still open just 48 hours ahead and sell out fast. The new system includes transportation, guaranteed admission, and the required safety video shown en route, offering convenience but sparking debate among locals over access and commercialization. Resident entry remains free, and conservation efforts continue to be the bay’s top priority. Source: Beat of Hawaii

Reminder: Turn Your Clocks Back

Many think of the fall season to fall back and spring forward in the spring! Hawaii does not “fall back” for the time change because it does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST) at all and remains on Hawaii Standard Time (HST) year-round. 

Committee Meeting Continues Today

The Housing and Land Use Committee will continue meeting today, Thursday October 23rd at 11:00 am HST Council Chamber, Kalana o Maui Building, 8th Floor, 200 South High St., Wailuku, Hawai‘i.

To view the meeting live via Maui Council YouTube here, online via teams here, or via Maui Council Facebook here.

Although verbal testimony is now closed, you can send a ecomment directly here.

Take the time to observe our council members during meetings—watch how they listen, how they respond, and the expressions on their faces as community members speak. You can learn a great deal about who truly represents your interests and whether they are protecting our community as a whole. Maui’s future is on the line, and now is the time for all of us to stay informed, engaged, and ready to take action.