June 1 “Broad Reopening” of Maui Businesses is Pending Ige’s Approval

Maui Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is awaiting the governor’s approval for an earlier reopening date of June 1st for many businesses and services in Maui County.

If approved, dine-in restaurants would be able to open five days earlier than the previously announced June 5 date.

Also, the Mayor is asking for the June 1st reopening of fitness and recreational facilities, clubhouses, dog parks and playgrounds.

He also provided a list of five pools that would be allowed to reopen with modifications including: Coach Soichi Sakamoto Pool; Kīhei Aquatic Center; Lahaina Aquatic Center; Upcountry Pool; and Cooke Memorial Pool.

Planet Fitness in Kahului. Maui Now file photo.

Businesses that would remain CLOSED include: bars, nightclubs, theaters, public gathering venues, banquet halls, community centers and county gymnasiums.

County officials remind the public that gatherings are limited to no more than 10 people, organized or contact sports are not allowed at county and beach parks, commercial activities are prohibited in county parks and beach parks, and there is no camping or use of grills in county parks and at beach parks.

All County parks and beach parks plan to reopen starting June 1. However, individual park reopening dates are subject to change.

“The people of Maui County have done a tremendous job in reducing the number of COVID-19 cases and taking care of one another,” Mayor Victorino said. “With only a handful of new cases over the past 30 days and continued support from our healthcare workers, I believe we are in a position to allow our local businesses to reopen under health and safety guidelines.

“Businesses should not feel pressured to reopen by June 1, though, and I strongly encourage all of them to take added precautions to prevent any spread of the virus.”

Mayor Victorino said the County of Maui continues to weigh public health, economy and community factors as part of its decision-making process.

“As we move forward, we will need the public’s assistance to prevent a second wave of COVID-19,” Mayor Victorino said. “We do not want to cancel or delay our reopening, but we will always need to make decisions based on the protection of our people – especially our keiki and kupuna.”