Mayor’s Request for “Broad Reopening” on June 1 Approved by Governor

Courtesy images: NWR & County of Maui

By Wendy Osher

Mayor’s Request for “Broad Reopening” Approved by Governor

Governor David Ige today approved Maui Mayor Michael Victorino’s request to reopen most businesses and services with modifications starting Monday, June 1, 2020.

This includes clubhouses, dog parks, playgrounds and skate parks, all county parks and beach parks, select county pools, dine-in restaurant service, tattoo parlors, aestheticians, massage therapists and other personal services.

“It takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Monday, June 1st,” said Mayor Victorino.  “I am saying, if ready, if you so want to have a soft opening… we want you to use it as a trial period for lack of a better term.”

Each reopening has included health and safety guidelines from industry and health officials.

All County parks and beach parks plan to reopen starting June 1; however, individual park reopening dates are subject to change. County officials note that Waiale Park will remain closed to accommodate the temporary emergency shelters.

• The following County pools will reopen (with modifications): Coach Soichi Sakamoto Pool; Kīhei Aquatic Center; Lahaina Aquatic Center; Upcountry Pool; and Cooke Memorial Pool.

Some Closures Remain In Place: 

The following businesses and services remain CLOSED: bars and nightclubs, theaters, public gathering venues, banquet halls, county community centers and county gyms.

The following County pools will remain CLOSED: Coach Spencer Shiraishi Memorial Pool; Wailuku Pool at Wells Park; and Kōkua Pool (closed for renovation).

Activities that are still NOT allowed including: gatherings of more than 10 people, community events and large gatherings. At county parks and beach parks, there is still NO grilling, camping, commercial activities or organized/contact sports.

Is the Lockdown Lifted?

We asked the mayor what this latest phase of reopening means for the residents of Maui.

“It’s still safer to be at home.  The lockdown is not finished, but we’re acting prudently.  We’re ‘acting with care’ right now. And we want people to know that we don’t believe you should stay home 100% of the time; and as you get back to work, and you get back to the new norm that we talk about, you can enjoy life but be prudent and be careful,” said Mayor Victorino.

What the New Normal Means:

The mayor says the new normal will include things like: social distancing, changing work place layouts, adjusting workshifts, working from home, adjusting to school schedules, temperature checks and increased hygiene measures.