During an important presentation before the Hawai’i State Legislature today, Jan. 26, 2026, Mayor Richard Bissen highlighted Maui County’s shift last year from recovery to crucial housing delivery, key infrastructure investments, strengthening the economy and supporting public safety.

Nearly 450 housing units (427 units to date) have been fully constructed in Lahaina after the 2023 wildfires. Also, in highlighting his commitment to kamaʻāina housing countywide and keeping all residents in Maui County, Mayor Bissen said that more than 500 affordable and workforce homes were fully constructed in 2025, with over 600 additional homes estimated to be completed in 2026.

Combined with recovery-related housing, approximately 3,000 affordable and workforce homes are projected to be built countywide by 2030. More than 700 homes are under construction today.

“During my administration thus far, we have allocated over a quarter of a billion dollars toward affordable housing, supporting the development of 2,883 affordable units,” Mayor Bissen told the House Committee on Finance and the Senate Committee on Ways and Means during the joint informational briefing at the State Capitol in Honolulu.

The committees are the primary panels responsible for financial legislation, state budget formulation (operating and capital improvement projects), and tax measures. Members heard from the four County mayors today on their progress and their asks.

Mayor Bissen outlined his deliverables on countywide housing projects, such as investing in critical infrastructure that helps housing and a federally funded housing program for all Maui County residents.

“In the near term, more than $1 billion in infrastructure investment is anticipated to support housing development, including over $500 million in disaster recovery funds committed to water source and system improvements, expanded wastewater capacity, and critical transportation and drainage projects,” Mayor Bissen said. “Together, these investments are building the backbone needed to support new homes for Maui County’s families.”

Mayor Bissen emphasized the importance of strengthening Maui’s economy as recovery continues. With strong momentum underway to rebuild homes and help families return, the County is now advancing efforts to restore Front Street and support the return of commercial activity.

The reopening of limited commercial operations and daytime public access at Lahaina Small Boat Harbor reflects this focus, helping harbor-based businesses and tour operators safely resume service while repairs continue. To support this transition, the County has provided security, fencing, parking ambassadors and enforcement, wayfinding, and targeted community outreach — demonstrating a commitment to restoring commercial activity alongside ongoing recovery.

The presentation also outlined the State of Hawaiʻi requests to the County of Maui for nearly $220 million in County funding for State projects, including the following:

• Lahaina Bypass: In recognition of its importance to recovery, the State of Hawai’i has requested a $100 million contribution from the County as part of a broader County and State recovery partnership.

• Front Street Apartments: The State has requested approximately $96 million from the County in FY 2026, and the County has confirmed with the development team that the project’s application has been reviewed and is eligible up to the amount requested.

• The State has also requested an additional $20 million from County general funds in FY 2028, which the County of Maui administration supports, subject to Council review and approval.

• Hale ‘O Lā‘ie workforce housing project: The State has requested, and the County is proposing, $2.5 million in County funds in FY 2027 to assist the State in covering operating expenditures for this facility through February 2027.

Mayor Bissen is asking the state for $10.5 million for the Central Maui Wastewater Reclamation Facility, which is crucial to supporting Central Maui’s growth, housing development and long-term wastewater capacity, among other critical State support and funds.

“As we look ahead to 2026, we are focused on continued partnership with the State to accelerate housing delivery, strengthen emergency readiness and wildfire mitigation, and advance infrastructure resilience,” Mayor Bissen told the committees. “Mahalo for your continued support of our residents, and we remain committed to delivering measurable results together.”

To view the full presentation, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDbTL59YEo4.

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