Spence Appointed Maui Housing Director; McLean to Fill Planning Director Spot

William Spence (left) and Michele McLean (right). Courtesy file photos.

Mayor Alan Arakawa today announced the appointment of Planning Director Will Spence to serve as Director of the Department of Housing & Human Concerns, and Planning Deputy Director Michele McLean as Planning Director.

“Will has played a major role as Planning Director in helping to streamline the permitting process,” said Arakawa. “His experience in the private sector, his nearly 7+ years of administrative experience leading the Planning Department, and his familiarity with all of the housing projects during his tenure as Planning Director, will be invaluable to the Department of Housing & Human Concerns, especially in the area of affordable housing.”

“I thank Will for his service to the people of Maui County in his capacity as Planning Director, and I am confident in his ability to lead the Department of Housing & Human Concerns with the same dedication, understanding, and expertise,” Arakawa added.

“As the Deputy Director of the Planning Department for the past 7+ years, Michele has proven herself to be more than qualified to fill the director position,” said Arakawa. “She has worked closely with the community and her staff and is well-versed and more than capable to serve as director.”

“Housing for our residents and creating a sense of community for our residents are primary reasons I became a planner in the first place,” said Spence. “I thank the Mayor for this new opportunity to focus more of my efforts in those areas and serve all of the people of our county.”

“This is really a win-win,” said McLean. “DHHC and Planning will both continue to have experienced leadership and management for our last six months. I sincerely appreciate the Mayor’s confidence in me, and I look forward to working with him, the Council, the community, our planning commissions and other boards to complete key initiatives before the end of this term.”

“Both Will and Michele’s commitment to staff development and strong community partnerships will help the County continue to address the housing, human concerns, and planning needs of our community,” said Managing Director Keith Regan.

The personnel changes will be made effective July 1, 2018, and subject to confirmation by the Maui County Council.