Maui County Council reflects on three years since the Aug. 8 wildfires

“With deep reverence for the County of Maui and its people who three years ago faced deadly and devastating wildfires, the Maui County Council sends its renewed blessings and support for recovery and healing,” Chair Alice L. Lee said.

People from around the islands will gather at Lahaina United Methodist Church on Saturday to honor the memories of the 102 lives lost on Aug. 8, 2023. A memorial service organized by Kuhinia Maui, which is led by the communities of Lahaina and Kula with the county’s support, is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m.

“We know the losses inflicted by the fires are something people continue to deal with every day,” said Lee, who holds the seat for the Wailuku-Waiheʻe-Waikapū residency area. “They have our unwavering support in navigating a path to recovery.”

Lee said the council this year has continued its support for recovery in approving the budget for fiscal year 2027, which began last month. Appropriations include:

• $6 million to Lahaina Community Land Trust to help keep homes in community hands
• $3 million for Upcountry wildfire rebuild, recovery and mitigation
• $1 million to Hoʻōla iā Mauiakama Disaster Long Term Recovery

According to the county’s recovery dashboard, as of last week, 577 single-family and multifamily units have been completed, with homes passing final inspection. Another 667 homes have had permits issued, allowing construction to begin.

“We aspire toward a recovery that restores hope for people who have suffered extraordinary heartbreak,” Lee said. “I’m proud of the council’s financial investments in recovery, but they are pale in comparison to our community’s emotional and spiritual investments in recovery.”