#luana mahi
Maui OED Director placed on paid leave as investigation continues following internal audit, ethics findings
County of Maui Office of Economic Development Director Luana Mahi was placed on leave with pay on Aug. 20, 2024, pending further investigation. In March 2024, Mayor Richard Bissen, in consultation with the Department of the Corporation Counsel, authorized the Finance Department to conduct an internal audit of grants administered by the OED due to concerns brought to the attention of the administration.
Kahikolu Project on Maui targets axis deer and widespread environmental impacts
Prolific herds of hungry Axis deer continue to wreak havoc in Maui County, damaging farm crops, overgrazing livestock pasture lands, threatening fragile watersheds and even encroaching in heavily urbanized areas like Kahului Airport’s runways and baggage claim areas. Without natural predators in the islands, the deer have flourished unchecked. Now, in part due to an initiative funded by Maui County, some deer are falling prey to hungry humans.
Hilton Grand Vacations celebrates Grand Opening of Maui Bay Villas
Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. marked a milestone as it formally recognized the grand opening of Maui Bay Villas, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, located on 27 acres in South Maui.
Brian Kohne named new Maui County Film Commissioner
Brian Kohne, an award-winning music producer and filmmaker who grew up on Maui, has been named as the new County of Maui Film Commissioner, according to an announcement by the county’s Office of Economic Development today. His official start date is April 1, 2024.
Local businesses affected by Maui wildfires encouraged to participate in County survey
The Maui Business Health Check survey, initiated by the OED, seeks feedback from businesses affected by the wildfires, with the intent of understanding the challenges they face and identifying areas where support and resources can be directed.
90 members gather as part of the new Maui Economic Recovery Commission
The Maui ERC was formed in response to the wildfires that devastated Lahaina and Kula and is led by co-chairs James Kunane Tokioka, DBEDT Director, and Luana Mahi, OED Director.
Maui Office of Economic Development Grant Workshops in January
Take advantage of grant-seeking strategies by enrolling with experts during a series of county Office of Economic Development (OED) grant workshops in January.
Leaders launch Kōkua for Maui to support Maui business and economy post-wildfires
While monetary contributions and fundraisers have been helpful, the Kōkua for Maui program offers the public a chance to connect with individuals and businesses and create an added economic boost.
County of Maui Grants Review Committee approves $74,704 grant for Ka Lima O Maui
The Office of Economic Development, Grants Review Committee and Mayor Richard Bissen, have approved funding in the amount of $74,704 for Ka Lima O Maui, a nonprofit which is the largest employer of persons with disabilities in Maui County.
Maui Nui Strong website evolves into catalyst for connecting community
The County of Maui’s Maui Nui Strong website was originally established as an online COVID-19 resource, but has evolved into a catalyst for connecting communities on Maui, Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i.
Bissen announces selection of deputy managing director, additional appointments
Mayor-elect Richard Bissen announced the appointment of Josiah Nishita as deputy managing director, as well as the appointments of first deputies for the Department of the Corporation Counsel and the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney, Budget Director, and Economic Development Director.
Maui Sunday Market returns to Kahului Shopping Center
The Kahului Shopping Center’s parking lot will once again be the site of the Maui Sunday Market, which features food trucks, entertainment and local merchandise.
Maui Sunday Market moves to new location in Kahului starting July 10
The Maui Sunday Market is relocating from its current spot at the Kahului Shopping Center to just down the road at 150 Hāna Highway in Kahului, home of MFTC’s Maui Street Market, starting July 10.
Tips for Hawaiʻi Food Entrepreneurs on Labeling, Safety and Exporting to Japan
“Many small food entrepreneurs are looking for ways to grow their business,” said Luana Mahi, MFTC President and Owner of Hawaiian Isles Unlimited LLC. “In this webinar, industry experts will provide helpful tips and resources to help them succeed in today’s marketplace.”
