Mayor Interview: Considers Schedule for Reopening Bars, Organized Sports on Maui

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said the low number of new COVID-19 cases in Maui County has helped him to make better and quicker decisions relating to the phased reopening of businesses and the resumption of services.

While Governor David Ige announced last night his approval of bars reopening on Oʻahu on June 19, Mayor Victorino said he’s considering potential re-opening of bars on Maui next week, but said he still needs to work out details before making an announcement.  Any reopening date would also need the approval of the Governor before taking effect.

Mayor Victorino said he’s also looking at how Maui County can allow organized sports while keeping participants safe. “We’re watching the professional sports ranks–how they’re doing it.  Obviously they can do it differently–they’ve got money involved, T.V. and all of that.  Our opening of organized sports means bringing family and friends together,” said Mayor Victorino.

“We’ll look at larger gatherings–maybe taking from 10, we’re looking at and talking with the governor about maybe expanding that to 25 or 50–with wearing masks and as much physical distancing as allowable in the area,” said Mayor Victorino.

He expressed reluctance to share further details saying, “I don’t talk about it much because I don’t want people to get excited and it doesn’t happen; but I assure you we are looking at it with our medical group, our business group, our hospitality–all the various groups that are out there helping us to reorganize, reset our economy and open up safely for you and for when the visitors come back.”

The information was shared during a morning interview with Mayor Victorino who is providing updates on Pacific Media Group’s network of Maui stations as the County continues to adjust to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, the Mayor spoke with Shane Kahalehau of KPOA 93.5 FM on Maui, and shared his thoughts on the progress of the phased reopening of businesses in Maui County.